OPENING OF THE SEASON
September 2 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
Today the resign of the football begins in real earnest, and the club managers, wherever it has been practicable, have spared no efforts in serving up the fare to their supporters at the first possible opportunity. Those state executives who, profiting from past experience have had their teams well under control during the month of August no doubt, find the ‘'athletic preparations fully exemplified before today is over; while those teams that replying upon former prestige don the jersey with a superfluity of flesh and a costing of rest, will find themselves left at the post. For an example of the inestimable value of careful preliminary training we need to go no further afield than Everton. A couple of seasons ago, early training was more or less a lackadaisical character, with the result that there matches were lost during the first month. It is absolutely essential that a team should be in the best of condition even for the first engagement, and last season the Everton executive were fully alive to this, for by the time the glorious first had arrival the men were in the pink of condition. And what was the result? A long list of successes both at home and away. This year, too, the management have adopted the same methods as last year, and assiduous training supplemented by practice games, which partook even the nature of League contests, have been occupying the attention of the supporters of the club during the past mouth, and no doubt the team will profit by the strict attention to training when they take part in the first League match against Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park this evening. There is very little is new record of the Everton club. The fixtures are much the same as usual- that is, they are made up chiefly of league engagements cup ties, and a few ‘'friendlies'' of the better class among the last named being those with Glasgow Rangers, Celtic, St.Mirren Hearts of Midlothians Sunderland, Casuals and Woolwich Arsenal, but the absence of the Liverpool Club from the list is much to be regretted, and it is hoped that ere long the difficulty of arranging fixtures will be overcome. With regard to the personnel of the team, it will be found almost identical with that of last season, and should occasion require the committee will have at hand very capable reserves to call upon for every position in the fill. A few days ago the outlook was not so promising, inasmuch as the settlement with Holt had not been effected; but now the matter have been amicable arrannged, and that there is to be upheaval in the half back line, one cannot but look for the success of the term with every degree of confidence. Judging from practice games, the attacking line in all that can be desired, and Boyle (who captains the team) and Stewart will be found as brimful of resource, as ever, while Kelso who has if anything much improved, can with Arridge be depended upon against the best of company, and Hillman, who at the practice game appeared more agile than ever, will not be found wanting in cleverness. The new men have given general satisfaction, so that difficulty in selecting a team even under the most adverse conditions will be reduced to a minimum. The second team of Everton will be members of the Football combination, and with such resources at their command it is safe to predict a clean sheet at the close of the season. The clubs forming the Combination this year are Chester, Everton Glossop North End, Leek, Macclesfield, Northwich Victoria, and Oldham County.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NEWS
Athletic News- September 2, 1895
By the Loiterer
Holt has at last settled his differences with the Everton committee, but will not play this evening. By way of getting into something like condition, he will assist the reserve at Warrington on Tuesday evening. I suppose the bone of contention was £. S.d., and the hard things said of his conduct in keeping back his signature has always been tempered with the acknowledgement that he ought to get as much money as any man in the team. But he should have fixed the value of his services when he signed his agreement. However, all is settled now, and I don’t know that the outside public have a right to inquire too closely into the terms arranged with the directors.
Cameron, the amateur centre-forward, is not down yet, and his arrival in Liverpool is not expected for some time, even if he lands at all. He is not coming to the city solely to play football, but will combine business with pleasure. He is a fine player, but I have yet to see the effective blending of the amateur and professional element in football, especially when it is ten parts of pros, and only one of the other article.

CEAP FARES TO GOODISON PARK
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 2, 1895
The London and North Western railway announce cheap fares to Goodison Park for the opening game of the Everton Football club to-day when the visitors will be Sheffield Wednesday. By several of the afternoon trains to Walton and Spellow Stations the fare will be 2d single and 4d return (third class) from Lime-street, Edge Hill, Edge-lane, or Stanley.
EVERTON v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
The League match will take place at Goodison park this evening; kick-off 5.45. the following players will represent Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Storrier, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
WARRINGTON ST ELPHIN’S NEW GROUND
Warrington St. Elphin’s A.F.C are inaugurating the opening of their new ground, adjoining St. James’s Church. Wilderspool-road (the old Rugby ground) on Tuesday, by a strong team of Everton playing a representative team of Liverpool and District Combination. The teams are as follow;- Everton; Cain, goal; McDonald, and Parry, backs; Jones, J. Holt, and Elliott, half-backs; Reay, Murray, Mainman, Flewitt, and Scholfield, forwards. Liverpool and District Combination -W.J. Robson, captain), Warrington St Elphin’s), goal; C. Taylor (Warrington St. Elphin’s), and J. McFarland (Hudson’s Athletic), backs; M. Fox, (Edge hill and Wavertree), E. Hughes (Formby), and G. Molyneux (Kirkdale), half-backs; W. Ireland (Garston Copper Works), J. Cunningham (Hudson’s Athletic), J. Dugdale (Warrington St. Elphin’s), J. Price (Garston Copper Works), and F. Marr (Hudson’s Athletic), forwards.
After the match, the players and St. Elphin’s club officials and members and others will have supper together at the Norton Arm Hotel.

EVERTON V SHEFFIELD WEDNSDAY
September 3, 1895. Birmingham Daily Post
At Liverpool. Play started at 5.47, and Everton having made a futile attack, Bell gave Wednesday the first goal from a free kick against Storrier. Everton's shooting was wild, but the Sheffield goal had one narrow escape. A few minutes later Bell again scored, putting Wednesday two ahead. So far Everton had been overplayed, although Chadwick almost scored just before the interval. Half-time; Sheffield 2, Everton 0. When play was resumed about fourteen thousand spectators were present. Free kicks to Everton prove abortive, and Hillman saved brilliantly, while a few minutes later Storrier shot over. From a free kick Allan saved cleverly, and again Everton were in front without result until Boyle scored; next Hartley put through and equalised. Result; A draw, 2 goals each.

EVERTON 2 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 2
September 3 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
Charming weather more settled for Cricket than football, there was a fairly good lining of spectators, at Goodison Park. The teams, as will be seen from the list below, were much the same as last year. L.Bell playing centre for Wednesday, while Storrier was requisitioned to Holt position. At 5-45 the teams faced in the following in front of 12,000 spectators . Everton: - Hiillman, goal Kelso, and Arridges backs, Boyle (captain), Storrier, and Stewart halfbacks, Williams Bell Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday: - Allan, goal, Earp (captain), and Langley, backs, Petrice, Crawshaw, and Jamieson, halfbacks, Brash, Ferrier, Bell, Brady, and Spikesley forwards. Referee Mr. Armitt. The Sheffield Skipper won the toss, and Hartley facing the glaring sun set the ball in motion. The first movements were somewhat sturdy eventually Arridge opened the game for Williams but he overran himself and then Earp had cleared ably. Milward and Chadwick made a dash on the left, which resulted in the former screwing the ball onto the top of the net. The Wednesday forwards broke away in nice combination, when Storrier unfortunately foul an opponent, and from the free kick, Bell head through the game having being in progess about five minutes. Sheffield become very aggressive and Hillman saving from Spikseley and other forwards in great style. At Length Bell scored a second point from the Sheffield club. At Length grand work by Hartley, Milward and Chadwick almost brought about the desired point, and a moment later afterwards the last named player under great difficulties sent in a grand shot which, justed needed a touch from Bell, but this was not forthcoming and the whistle sounded immediately afterwards for the interval. Sheffield leading by two goals to nil. A few minutes after resuming a splendid opening was given to Hartley in front of goal there being practically no opponents but a miskick enabled Langley to get up in time to clear. The luck continued to favour the visitors who were often fortunate in meeting the ball when banged into goal, and the height of disappointment was reached as a couple of free kicks in good position were got away in neat easy fashion. A visit to the other end brought out Hillman to brash, and again to Bell, the custodian's judgement in dealing with the latter's attempt to rush the ball through being very fine indeed. Diverting the ball from Bell's toe, to gave possession to Milward who in conjunction with his partner, worked it nicely down only to receive feeable assistance from the halves Storrier especially being faulty. Hartley headed in beautifully to Allen who brought of a smart save and almost immediately afterwards the Wednesday goal had another marvellous escape. At length a long shot from Boyle took effect twelve minutes from time, and on getting to work again the Evertonians fairly bore down on the Sheffield goal. One of their all but put the teams on equal terms, the corner kick being the first that had taken place in the match. Three minutes later Hartley scored the equaling goal from a well-placed corner by Chadwick. A chance to take the lead was given to Hartley, but he shot skied the net. Towards the close the Wednesday forwards made a big effort, and Hillman was thrice called upon. Kicking out in the last stage was a frequently manourve of the Wednesday backs, but no further points were scored, and a good game resulted of two goals each. From an Everton point of view the game was most disappointing. Although individually the play was good there was not that equanimity and cohesion action, among the players which, one has been accountioned to witness. This effort of the forwards were spasmodic in character, and had they in the first half infused but a mostly of the vigor that characteristic their movements in the second portion when they played an absolutely winning game, success with a substantial margin, must have attended them. The halve were at time rocky, and Holt's reappearance in the team will be anxiously awaited. The backs and goalkeeper had an exacting time, and came out fairly well. The Wednesday team, as a whole are a well balanced lot, and should have a good season, though the two point that they scored and the marvellous saves that were effected under the most unlooked for conditions Stamped them at any rate last evening as a very lucky team.

OPENING OF SEASON
The Liverpool Daily Post-Tuesday, September 3, 1895
EVERTON v. SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
A crowd of something like 15,000 spectators assisted at the opening of the football season at the Everton ground at Goodison Park yesterday. The first game (in the League series) was between the home club and Sheffield Wednesday, and as regards the players there was very little change from the personnel of last year, the only fresh face in the twenty-two players being noticeable on the side of the visitors-Bell, the centre forward for Sheffield Wednesday. This young footballer, it will be remembered was spoken of some time past as having been “booked” for Everton, but he was allowed to slip away, whether intentionally on the part of the Everton Club or not we cannot say. If such was the case the Everton Executive have let go a sterling good player, for yesterday evening he acquitted himself in capital style and scored the two goals which the visitors obtained. As regards the play, the Everton men were very disappointing. This gave the idea that they were very much wanting both in practice and training in comparison to their opponents, who were much faster on the ball, showed more agility with respect to the fine passing point, and in front of goal they were always superior. In defence they were immeasurably in advance of Everton, particularly so to regards the backs. However, a first game is nothing to go by, and we hope to see Everton on Saturday next play a different game what they did last night, when they were most fortunate to effect a draw. Up to within a quarter of an hour of the finish of the game they were two points to the bad and had not Sheffield Wednesday adopted defensive tactics, and played strictly to cover the points they had gained the chances are that Everton, instead of finishing up with one point to the credit, would, had their opponents played an open game throughout, been two to the bad. Everton lost the toss, but as the sun was sinking at the time of kick-off there was little advantage gained in this respect by the visitors. Hartley put the ball in motion, and both sides being early for the fray the ball was paid visit to the respective goals, but without danger to either custodian. The home left then got hold and Milward raced fiercely down his wing and passed to Chadwick when the latter was within easy distance of the Wednesday goal, his shot hitting the left on th4 crossbar, off which bounded on to the top of the net- a good try, and narrow shave for Sheffield. From the kick off the visitors got up on the centre. Here Storrier was penalised for “hands” and from the free kick Bell just touched the ball with his head and scored the first for Wednesday. The ball seemed to take Hillman by surprise, and it was with a show of great disgust that he picked the leather out of his net only five minutes from the start. Both sides now woke up and the Everton men made one or two good attacks on Allan’s charge, but with out success. Spikesley and Brady also were prominent the latter on one occasion swing in beautifully towards Hillman who just managed to save a low shot. The Sheffielders kept up a strong attack, and Hillman’s goalkeeping qualities were brought out in splendid style, the backs somewhat failing several times being beaten at some quarters. Storrier, Hartley and Williams at length gave relief, the last named running the leather down to the visitors quarters line and passing to Hartley, when the latter was held while passing to Chadwick. The free kick given for Everton had one or two good shots at the Wednesday goal, Storrier, Bell and Chadwick distinguishing themselves. Allen however, was equal to the calls made upon him, and brought off one wonderful fine save from a shot by Chadwick, the Sheffielder throwing himself on to the ground to effect the relief. The game was fully contested and apart from the goal seemed early on, the visitors certainly had the best of the tussle. Here another disaster befell the Evertonians, another free kick against the homesters close up to their goal enabling Bell to toe the leather’s second time into Hillman’s net. The “Blues” certainly lacked cohesionin their play, and when they were in front of the goal their attacks were anything but vigorous. The home front line from the kick off got down once more to Allen’s goal, and here William’s showed more tremendous play. On one occasion he had very hard luck, for just as he was putting in an almost certain goal he was pushed right over by Langley’s charge. Just before half time the play slowed down considerably and now Everton’s went of form was very visible to onlookers. They were slow in passing, and were almost always robbed of the ball. Storrier by a judgment kick into goal month gave his front line a chance to wipe out one of the points against them, but Milward though he made a good attempt, failed to get the leather past Allen, who was the of agility when called upon. The Everton front line immediately before the interval put in a lot of their good form. Williams started the movement and the ball passed form one to the other until it was passed again by Milward to Chadwick who experienced very hard lines and directly afterwards of his brilliant efforts. On the whole the Evertonians were outclassed at all points on restarting the homesters had first look in, the right-wing forwards making a effort to reduce Allen’s charge. Williams centred nicely for Bell but the latter was grassed and before the he could get up Earp had the ball away. Almost directly the leather was in front of Hillman, and the referee had to caution one of the Wednesday players for “getting at Hillman while saving the ball. The venue again soon changed, but a couple of free kicks for Everton close in to the Sheffield goal failed to produce anything tangible for them, and directly following Hillman was allowed to clear his goal from a half-hearted attack. Everton were now favoured with more play and had a some good chances offered them to score, one of which Hartley throw away by making a long weak shot while he had a clear course before him. Storrier next tried, and although he made a better show than his comrades he also failed. Not only was there want of in the play of the Everton men, but their kicking also was weak, and when up in front of goal they generally came down on their own while getting their kick in. on the other hand, the Sheffielders advantage they held in having two goals in hand, acted pretty much on the defensive. The Wednesday men successfully beat off the fierce scrimmages round their goal, but pressing again, the home team were at last awarded a goal from Boyle, who managed to worm around the defenders and got the ball into the net. There was ten minutes to play, and Everton “went at it.” The ball had warmly been out into play again cry from the spectators vent the air, but the equalising point had bot been score. Everton however were not to be denied. After conceded a corner, and from a nice “place” by Chadwick, Storrier crossed back to Milward, who with all his old style placed it past Allen. The spectators gave way to great enthusiasm and the home players fully enjoying their luck, again went for the Wednesday goal, a brief attack finishing up with Williams making a lofty shie at Allan’s goal. The visitors tried to retaliate and though they got down several times their attack failed. Teams- Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Storrier, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday; Allan, goal; Earp and Langley, backs; Petrice, Crawshaw, and Jamieson,. Half backs; Brash, Ferrier, Bell, Brady, and Spikesley, forwards.

EVERTON v. SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
Sheffield Independent-Tuesday 3 September 1895
A more appropriate beginning for the season could hardly been chosen by the Everton executive than a match with the Wednesday boys from Sheffield. Was there not that little English Cup accident at Olive grove to wipe out?- a game that will be remembered, and not least by the Everton champions, who had set their affection on the “old pot” for 1895. The weather was more suggestive of sea bathing, and certainly much more of cricket, than football. A cloudless sky and blazing sun made matters distinctly warm for the spectators, while the state of the players must have been a sorry one indeed. Under the circumstances the start -5.45- was not a whit too late. The ground was in splendid order, though the grass was a shade too long. By five o’clock the crowd had began to assemble, and there was a very pretty “ring” by the time for play. The Sheffielders were the first to show up for the preliminary canter, when it was seen the team would be as advertised, the only alternation from last season being Bell for Davis in the centre. The Blues quickly followed, and received a capital reception from their supporters. They had practically their full strength out, though neither Parry nor Holt were amongst the number, not in condition being the excuse. Meanwhile they who sat at the receipts of custom had been more than busy, as that sweetest of music in a treasurer’s ears, the clicking of the turnstiles, clearly indicated. As stated, the “ring” was a pretty one, 15,000 perhaps, not many less at any rate. We had no band, as is the fashion in these days, but one benighted cornet player did his little best and discoursed sweet, but mournful, music until Wednesday scored, when he closed the concert. This is how the men lined up promptly to time;- Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Arridge, backs; Boyle (Captain), Storrier, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Wednesday; Allan, goal; Earp (Captain) and Langley, backs; Petrie, Crawshaw, and Jamieson, half-backs; Brash, Ferrier, Bell, Brady, and Spikesley, forwards. Referee, Mr. T. Armitt, Leek. Earp beat Boyle for choice, but there no advantage. At once Sheffield got away, but quickly had to fall back, and Williams fetched first music from the crowd by a long shot that dropped on the net. A moment later, from a free kick against Storrier, Langley lifted the ball right in the goal month, and Bell headed the first point of the match three minutes from the start. Everton pressed, but could make little impression, and let fly wildly -very wildly-several times. Pretty and tricky play by the visitors forwards ended in Spikesley fetching Hillman with a beauty, which it took all that master’s skill to clear. Again and again the Sheffielders, with splendid combination got up, and the Everton defence had a sultry time, Brady, Brash, and Crawshaw each had a try, the last named being tripped as he shot. Work as they would they could not get through, Hillman saving a marvellous manner over and over again. A couple of free kicks against Wednesday brought relief, and from the second Allan had to save from Williams. The game, which had been fast from the start, grew still faster, but opened out somewhat, and both ends were visited in turn. Spikesley, who was in his best form, had a bit of his usual luck, and after a collision with Kelso went very lame. Fouls to both sides followed, and then the blue and white again went to the front. Their light forwards went in went in with any amount of dash, and pluck galore. At last they were rewarded, a dash on the right, a centre to Crawshaw, who shot hard and low, and, presto, Everton had a second point against them, Bell helping the ball into the net after Hillman had saved on the line. This roused the home team, who went away post haste, only to be pulled up through Hartley getting off-side. Wednesday’s backs kicked and tackled splendidly, and play quickly shifted to the other end. Allan had an ugly looking rush to face, but the ball bounded harmlessly over the bar just as he was bundled into the net. The home team plucky up, but their efforts were very ragged, though with plenty of individual excellence. Chadwick got in a couple of splendid runs all on his own account, the second one being finished with a brilliant shot only a shade too high, spite of the heat the speed was kept up in gallant style, but half-time arrived without any alteration in the score. Right up to the interval the visitors held the whip hand, and crossed over with the score standing;- Wednesday 2 goals, Everton 0 goals.
Very little time was cut to waste at the interval, and the players were quickly back again, the Wednesday boys receiving a very acceptable bit of encouragement from the spectators. After the Sheffield backs had been twice called on, a dash was made to the other end, where the new official reading of the rule dealing with the charging of goalkeepers, was put into force by Mr. Referee Armitt to the evident satisfaction of the crowd. Again Sheffield had to look after their own stronghold, a free kick for hands close is being only saved after a warm bit of work. Bell, we mean bell the Blade, got away grandly, but was as grandly tricked by Hillman before he could shoot. The weather had now began to tell its tale, and play fell off in speed, though it suffered little in interest. If anything, the home team was now showing the better form, their combination had improved, and they seemed to have a better idea of where their opponents’ goal was situated. Still they had nothing like their own way when the Wednesday forwards got going they took some stopping. Hartley and Chadwick both put in good shorts, and then Allen kicked away a lightning effort by Kelso, with half dozen players in him. Twice Wednesday were pulled up for off-side when but half way down the field. As time drew on the home team made desperate effects but he Sheffield defence was hard to pass, and time after time Earp and Langley cleared in splendid style. Once Allen saved marvellously, but the attack could not be kept out, aided as it was by two or three free kicks close up. At last, from a scrimmage, Milward made the first point for his side, and the crowd gave voice as it had never done previously during the game. Still pressing Everton gained a corner which was beautifully placed by Chadwick and Hartley made the scoring equal with a grounder just out of Allan’s reach. Fouls to each side followed and then Spikesley had an opening but could not get his lame leg going, and the opportunity was lost. The second goal for Everton was made with 15 minutes to go, and a lively quarter of an hour it was. Neither lot of players spared themselves, and excitement was kept at fever heat by the way the game fluctuated. The effort of scoring their couple of points had taken a lot out of the home team, and during this final burst the “Blades” had far more than their share of the play. The right wing, aided by Petrie, put in a lot of work, while Bell, whose luck was none too good, was pulled up when in a capital position, though he appeared yards on-side. Hillman, too, was a thorn in the flesh to the Wednesday forwards, the way he cleared and the distance he threw being a treat to watch. Nothing further in the scoring line was indulged in, and the game finished- and no doubt the perspiring players were not sorry when it did finish-in a draw, the result being;- Everton 2, goals, Sheffield Wednesday 2 goals.
COMMENTS
The game was a rattling one from start to finish, and would have been considered so even if played later on in the season, when teams are supposed to have settled down, and got into condition. The Wednesday men all round showed capital form, and went off with rare dash in the first half. The Combination of their forwards was excellent, as was the backing of the halves. The backs were always reliable, and cleared with plenty of vigour, while Allan in goal, though not having near as much work as Hillman, was smart and cool, and could not be blamed for either of the goals scored against his side. Bell was a success in the centre, and has the making of a really fine player. Where all showed such good form it is hard to say who was most deserving of praise, perhaps Crawshaw, Petrie, and Brady caught one’s eye most frequently. On the home side the display of combined play was at times very disappointing. Of individual cleverness there was any amount too much, in fact, occasionally for the good of the team. They were lucky to get off with one point out of the match, seeing they had all the worst of the initial half, and during the whole game only really had the best of matters for about 20 minutes in the middle of the second half. Hillman kept goal like a champion, and to him every praise is due. Kelso was the pick of the backs, Stewart and Boyle of the halves, while Chadwick and Milward showed all their old cleverness, and were far and away the better wing. Williams who showed he could play when he had the chance, appeared at times to be left severely alone. The only back to a really  enjoyable game was the accident that happened to Spikesley after quarter of an hour’s play. How far it affected the result of course cannot be said, but it certainly weakened his wing considerably as he went very lame during all the rest of the match.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT COMBINATION 1 EVERTON 5
September 4 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
This match, in aid of the funds of the Liverpool and District Association, was played lastnight on the new ground of the St. Elphine Club. Warrington, and resulted in a win for Everton by 5 goals to 1. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Cook, goal, McDonald and Parry, backs, Jones, Holt, and Elliott halfbacks, Reay, Murray, Mainman Flewitt, and Scholield forwards. Liverpool and District Combination: - J.W.Robson, (captain), (warrington St Elphin's) goal, Taylor (c) (st Elphins), and McFarland (j) (Hudson's Athletci), backs, Fox (m) (Edgehill and Wavertree), Hughes (h) (Formby), and Molyneux (Kirkdale) hlafbacjs, Ireland (w) (Garston Copper Works), Cunningham (j) (Hudson Athletics), Dugdale (j) (warrington St. Elphins), Price (j) (Garston Copper Works), and Marr (j) (Hudson's Athletci) forwards.

EVERTON COMBINATION  v LIVERTPOOL AND DISTRICT COMBINATION
The Liverpool Daily Post- Wednesday, September 4, 1895
In celebration of the opening of Warrington St. Elphin’s new ground, Wilderspool-road, Everton Combination, including Parry and J. Holt met a team of the Liverpool and District Combination at Warrington last night. The match was played during a heavy thunderstorm. District started, and Everton pressed immediately. Mainman scoring in the first two minutes. District with the aid of C. Taylor, took play to the Everton end, Higginson scoring with a swift low shot, Parry, with a tremendous punt, put Everton on the aggressive, this being supplemented with some tricky work by Holt which enabled Flewitt to score No 2 for Everton. Half time was shortly afterwards called without any addition to the score. On the restart Everton gave a good exhibition of the passing game, and although Cook had several stiff shots to deal with the District were never really dangerous. The Everton forwards frequently found a stumbling block in Taylor. Dugdale was conspicuously among the forwards, and good work was done by Higgins, Everton scored 3 goals during this half, Elliott being responsible for them all. Final score Everton 5 goals, District 1 goal.

EVERTON  FOOTBALL CLUB
Liverpool Echo-Saturday 7 September 1895
TO THE EDITOT OF THE LIVERPOOL ECHO
Sir- on reaching the ground last night to see the opening match v. Sheffield Wednesday, I was surprised and annoyed to find that myself and other shareholders were not allowed to occupy our usual places on the reserve stand, but were packed away at each end, just on the goal line, in the 1s seats. This is a bad start by the new committee, and I for one can hardly believe that a gentleman like Mr. Clayton, would be a party to such niggardly treatment of so respectable a body as the Everton shareholders. To make the matter worse, quite three-fifths of the stand was comparatively empty, and the bare benches bore eloquent testimony as to the folly of the committee. It must be remember that it was the shareholders, in the first instance, who by their money and confidence made the club a possibility, when things were not bright as now, and, therefore, they are entitled to the best position in the stand (the centre, called “special reserve”), not the worst. From the remarks I heard the committee are in for a warm time of it if they do not speedily alter their present policy. It is to be hoped that the committee policy. It is to be hoped that the committee will take time by the forelock- Yours &c., AN OLD EVERTONIAN. Sept 3, 1895
TO THE EDITOR OF THE LIVERPOOL ECHO
Sir.- allow me through your paper to protest against the action of the Everton Football Club committee in reference to the shilling stand accommodation at Goodison Park? When the ground was formerly opened the silling seats occupied at least three-quarters of the large stand. Last year a large portion of these seats was railed off and added to the two-shilling accommodation, and on visiting the ground on Monday evening I find there is still another portion of the “bob” seats railed off and added to the two-shilling portion. At present those who pay their shilling for admittance have a comparatively small portion allotted to them at each end of the stand, and as was the case on Monday evening, they were considerably hampered for room, whilst the two-shilling seats were practically empty. This room is really wasted, at the inconvenience of the occupiers of the shilling seats. Complaints were numerous on Monday evening from the occupiers of these seats as to the excessive encroachment on what were formerly shilling seats, and at the present rate of progress in another season’s time we will probably find ourselves put out of the large stand and asked to pay one shilling for the goal stands, the admittance to which is at present only six-pence. I hope this latter will catch the eye of some committeeman, who will lay the matter before his committee and that they will let us have for the future at least as good accommodation for our money as we have had in the past. Surely we deserve it- Yours, &c., EVERTONIAN. Liverpool, Sept 3, 1895.

EVERTON 6 NOTTS FOREST 2
September 9 1895. THE Liverpool Mercury
Notts Forest, who had so creditably disposed of the Bury team on Thurdsay, furnished the attraction at Goodison Park on Saturday, and at the commencement of the game a crowd of about 15,000 strong, which increased in numbers as play progessed lined the enclosure. There were changes in both teams from those, which took part in the initial League contest, and a big burst of applause went around the ground as Holt put in an appearance with his old comrades. Prompt to time the teams lined up as follows: - Everton: - Hillman, goal Kelso, and Adams, backs Boyle (captain), Holt, and Stewart, backs, Williams, Bell Flewitt, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Notts Forest: - Allsopp, goal, Ritchies, and Scott, backs, Stuart (a), McPherson, and Forman (f), halfbacks, Pike, Carnally Kerr, Forman (fr), and McInnes, forwards. The Forest won the toss, and soon, the kick off the Evertonians got clean away, Chadwick missing the net by the mearest shave. Some very effective passing on the part of Cassidy and Pike resulted in Adams services being called into requision, and a moment later Holt came in for a round of applause on twice robbing Kerr and placing his forwards in possession, and them followed some magnificent passing by the whole of the front line, bell putting the ball slightly wide of the upright. The play of the home forwards was now simply brilliant and after Williams, Bell and Chadwick had tried in vain to pillow the ball into the net. Milward met a return from Allsopp which, Chadwick had levelled, and from a difficult position though close in, scored the first goal nine minutes from the start. The restart brought no charge in the general run of the game, the smart tackling of the halves and accurate movements of the forwards being very striking incidents of play. Meanwhile the Forest left put in some capital bit of play. McInnes especially during good work, but being opposed to Boyle at his best, but little headway could be made. Eventually the Forest van lobbed the ball on, and Forman sent in a beautiful shot at Hillman who saved in his accustomed style, and during the next few minutes the Everton defenders had an anxious time, especially so when ‘'hands'' was given against them close in. Williams got the ball away, and after McPherson the Forest centre half, had failed to arrest Flewitt it looked long odds on the Everton centre booking a scored point. He overran the ball in his final effort, but was well attended by Chadwick, who had a clear field, and notched the second point after 23 minutes play. Following this reverse the Foresters played up briskly, and swarmed round Hillman's charge, but again such sterling defenders, as Holt Stewart, and Boyle who repeatedly broke up all attempts at combination, their prospects of scoring were not at any time bright. A long lunge from Stewart, changed venue and Chadwick sent in a swift straight shot, which took effect, and within a minute Stewart all but repeated the performance. Milward and Chadwick broke away cleverly and drawing round then, left the field clear for Flewitt, who took full advantage of the opening efforted him by regulating the fourth goal of the match. The Forest halves were simply powerless against the Everton line, who times after time raced down in very pretty fashion. A couple of corners came to nothing, and the interval arrived with Everton leading by 4 goals to nil.
Immediately on resuming, the Forest forward gave promise of running close quarters, and during the first five minutes they combined with far greater effect than at any period in the first half. F.R.Forman seemed to have the goal at his mercy, but there was no defeating the burly Evertonians who scooped the ball away, and again saved a low shot at the corner. This bombardment finished up the home lot, who got off in an irresistible swing, and on the forwards gathering in the goalmouth, Bell fell back and waited his opportunity, which soon came, with a strong low shot gave Allsopp no chance of saving. Play had scarely been resumed when Williams and Bell raced prettily down, and on the insider putting a timely touch in the direction of Milward the last named player banged the ball past Ritchie and Allsopp into the net. Pulling themselves together the Reds worked the ball nicely down the field, but the final efforts were feeble in the extreme. McInnes had a good opening and shot in strongly, but had the misfortune of seeing the ball rebound from the crossbar, and after Flewitt had attired the enthusiasm of the Everton spectators with a brilliant run down, F.Forman put in a high shot which, Hillman saved at the expense of a fruitless corner. Then followed a period of even play about midfield. When Carnelly and Pike sprinted off, the former scoring the Forest first with a shot that completely beat Hillman. During the next few minutes Holt put in a tremendous amount of work, and eventually gave Bell possession, who fastening on the ball, fairly cut out the pace, and sent in a beauty cross shot, which only required the least touch from Milward, but this was not forthcoming. A few minutes later McInnes lay in good position and shot in strongly, but at the crossbar. The efforts of the visitors were rewarded in the last minute of play, when F.R.Forman put the ball out of Hillman's reach, but had the latter not slipped the point would probably have been easily warded off. Nothing further was done, and Everton won by 6 goals to 2.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 9 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
Despite the unpromising outlook in the morning on Saturday, when Everton engaged in their second League League encounter the afternoon turned out beautifully fine, and from a spectator's point of view left nothing to be desired. It is quite possible that the players if consulted, might have preferred a little less sun, but on the other hand, the executive of the club must welcome a bright and pleasant afternoon on account of the increased receipts, for although the weather seems to make no different at all to the real football enth8ususm. Yet there are a great number who fell that it is not worth risking the discomfort of a wetting to watch a match in which, the play is considerably deteriorated by a sloppy and slippery ground. At Goodison Park on Saturday a crowd of quite 18,000 followed the game with eagerness and excitement and in addition seemed to be thoroughly enjoying themselves, for their favourites were in one of their best moods. After their very poor display against Sheffield Wednesday on Monday last it was quite refreshing to witness the magnificent passing of the forwards well and judiciously fed by their halves. It is doubtedly to the latter division that the immense improvement in Saturday's play is due, and it leads one at once to think what an extensive difference Holt makes to the team. It seems almost a moral effect he has, for all departments play a vastly improved game. On Saturday Boyle, Holt, and Stewart adopted the tactics pursued by the international halves against Scotland on the Everton ground early in the year, and when as was several times the case, they could not see their way clear to put the ball nicely to their forwards, they passed to one another with the invariable result that the ball, when got rid of was placed at one of the forwards toes, and not as is too often the case, justed kicked aimlessly up the field. The halfback passing game has another great advantage as it draws away the first line of defence in the opposing halfbacks and thus leaves the forwards peer when they do get the ball. The forward line was the same that did duty on Monday, with the exception of Flewitt the Lincoln City recuit, who took Hartley's place in the centre position, and who was an undoubted success. His passing is smart and exact, and he has in addition speed and strength, and with just a little more precision in shooting, he should prove one of the best. Milward and Chadwick were in great form as their old clubmate. Alec Stewart will testify. Williams and Bell completed the quintet these also playing in sterling fashion. Some very pretty bits of triangular passing between them and Boyle were witness. Milwards second goal being the direct result of one of these. The backs Adams and Kelso, were very safe, especially in the first half and Hillman in goal brought off some magnificent saves, so that one may forgive him for letting two shot through which, under ordinary conditions, he would have cleared. In the case of the second goal recored against him he obviously tripped and fell short of the ball. He proved a tower of strength in the term, his judgement in taking the ball right off an opponents from being unerring. Then again, he was so cool when learing, and could not be rushed by the opposing forwards, most of whom looked twice before attempting to charge the big man through his goal. It is a great pleasure to have nothing but congratulations to chronicle for our local team. They played a magnificent game on Saturday and fully deserved their handsome victory of six goals to two. If they could only keep up this form all through the season and is a consummation devoutly to be wished high honours are certainly assured them. Unfortunately accidents, indisposition, and the like chip in at time, and jar the smooth working of every football team and it is to be hoped, that Everton share of these misfortunate will be very light. Milward (2), Chadwick (2), Flewitt, and Bell scored the goals for Everton. There were three changes in the Nottingham team from that which, defeated Bury so decisively on Thursday last, F.R.Forman Kerr (the old Liverpool Forwards) and F.Forman displacing Shaw, Rose, and McCracken respectively. Of the forwards McInnes and F.R.Forman were beyond question the best. Kerr was timid and quite outclassed. F.Forman on the left, was the pick of the halfbacks and this player made a very good show at times in spite of the clever forward wing that he had against him, whilst McPherson and Alec Stewart worked hard, but with little effect. The backs, Ritchie and Scott, were a long time in settling down to their work, and indeed, in the first half they were far from attaining, a high standard, but in the second portion of play they showed up brilliantly on several occasions. The beautiful and well timed passing of the opposing forwards completely mastered them, and Allsopp in goal had a very hard and anxious time, and he not made some really brilliant saves the score against his club would have been much heavier. Towards the end of the second half the Everton men, satisfied with their substantial lead, appeared to be inclined to take things easily, and it was then that Notts succeeded in obtaining their two goals, which were recored by Carnelly and F.R.Forman. It would be well to impress upon Evertonians the importance of keeping an eye on the goal averages, which in this era of keen competition is a very important in the event of a close race for championship of the League. This evening at 5-30 the Bury team, which has had anything but a pleasant experience since their inclusion in the first League rank, will put in an appearance at Goodison Park.
The season opened at Goodison Park on Monday evening last when Sheffield Wednesday furnished the visiting side, and for a midweek match the game was largely patronised. The display of the home team was not up to expectation, and laded during the first half they were simply outclassed by the Blades, whose forwards were ever keen on the ball and withal effective when anywhere within range of goal. Crawshaw the Wednesday half, was most successful in breaking up whatever attempts at combination the Evertonians indulged in and on the left Jamieson was most assiduous in his attentions to those in front of him. The full backs had plenty of resource, and on the whole the Blackburn were voted to have a finely balanced team which, should carry then successfully through their engagements. Through the Everton team falled in the first portion they somewhat made amends in the second; but it was a case of touch, and go with then, and their supporters heavily a sigh of relief when their men drew up level. The absence of Holt had perhaps much to do with the lack of combination, which was apparent throughout the proceeding; but at the same time the side was not favoued with anthing like the amount of lack that came in the way of the visitors.

EVERTON ASSERT THEMSELVES
The Athletic News, Monday, September 9, 1895
By the Loiterers
The League fixture with Notts Forest at Goodison Park has always been one of the earliest, and this season finds it second on the list. The Everton team have been seen in an important match before, and the form shown did not satisfy the club’s supporters, for the opening match with Sheffield Wednesday resulted in a draw of two goals each. This was not considered good enough, and did not equal last season’s result, but all the same the spectators turned up well on Saturday, for there would be something like a crowd of 16,000 present during the proceedings. On this occasion they were not disappointed with the play of the team, as the men romped round the Foresters from Nottingham, and won easily. But all the same, the result was not pronounced as last season, when Everton won by six goals to one. Still, there is only a difference of a goal, and the margin is ample enough for anything. There were changes in the composition of both sides from what took part in the first match, the teams being as follows;- Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Adams, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Flewitt, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Notts Forest;- Allsopp, goal; Ritchie, and Scott, backs; Stewart, McPherson, and P. Forman, half-backs; Pike, Carnelly, Kerr, F.R. Forman, and McInnes, forwards. Referee; Mr. Bye. There was a business-like air about the proceedings at the start, for both teams set about their work in earnest. Of the two the Everton men were going in better style, and right off the reel Chadwick had a try at goal. The same player was often prominent with good work, and Flewitt, in the centre, was shaping uncommonly well for a stranger. Bell, too, was going strongly, and with the two extreme men eager for work the Notts defenders had a warm time of it. For a little while Ritchie and Scott kept them out, but the Everton men were playing so well that a goal was bound to come. The first point was obtained by Chadwick, Flewitt letting him take the centre from Williams, and his action completely baulked Allsopp, who was fairly beaten with the shot. Keeping up the pressure, Milward had a try, and a grand effort it was, but the new rule relating to charging the goalkeeper upset the arrangement, and a free kick was given against Williams. The Forest forwards now put it decent work, Pike and Forman especially working hard, and the latter brought Hillman on his knees to deal with a shot. This advantage was not held for long, as the Everton forwards were busy again, Flewitt and Chadwick being in the thick of it, and again Chadwick scored. The visitors again made a fair show, but there was always something wanting in their efforts, and the placing of the ball, even when not hampered, was very faulty, while an opponent invariably obtained possession. Not so the Everton men, for their passing was well timed, and there was method in all they did. The shooting, too, was of the best, and Chadwick put on the third goal. The home lot continued to have most of the play,. And eventually Flewitt made good use of a centre from Milward, and the score was four goals against the “reds.” The Forest certainly showed up better in the early stages of the second half, McInnes putting in grand work, and Hillman had to be pretty smart in keeping them out. For a little while the play was all in favour of the visitors, and then a chance came over the game, for Everton broke away, and Bell banged the ball in from long range, and completely beat Allsopp. So much for accurate shooting, which was further demonstrated when Milward successfully put the ball in the net again. The Forest had another look in, and this time Carnelly scored. Play eased up a bit, and the visitors had the best of the game. Almost other items McInnes hit the crossbar, but they were not allowed to have matters all their own way, and Everton experienced hared lines as well. In the last minute F.R. Forman improved the Forest’s score, and Everton won by the comfortable margin of six goals to two. Play all through was in favour of Everton, and at times was most pronounced. The forward work was much in advance, and very few mistakes were made, either in passing the ball or in shooting at goal. Flewitt was a success in the centre, for the forwards worked very harmoniously, and there was seldom any hitch in the correct placing of the ball. Milward, too, is an improved player, and Chadwick is as good as ever. Bell worked with the other-night wing suffered in comparison with the other. The halves were a stumbling block to the Forest forwards, and they did their share in making the attack so successful, each placing the ball accurately to their men. In this respect they were far in front of the Forest halves. Kelso and Adams were a splendid pair, the latter astonishing everybody with his kicking and tackling. Only two or three corners were made when Adams was inclined to be a bit easy, but the issue was safe then. I cannot compliment the visitors on their play. All through they indulged in a ragged sort of game, for although there was any amount of work done it lost much of its effectiveness through a want of finish. Kerr was the same Kerr, as at Liverpool, and seemed to think it was his place to part with the ball as soon as possible. The left-wing couple were the best, but, generally speaking , the home halves had the best of the argument. The Forest trio did not render them much assistance in feeding, and much ground was lost in this way, and unnecessary work gone through. They are a sturdy pair of backs Ritchie and Scott, and, considering the amount of work they had, a fair show was wade; but with the Everton men in tip-top form they had rather more on hand than could be got through. Allsopp made one or two mistakes, but the shots as a rule were of the best, and not at all easy to stop.

THE LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday, September 9, 1895
By the Loiterer
The Everton team did not open the season so auspiciously as usual, and a draw with Sheffield Wednesday does not come up to last season’s effort. The play in the first half left much to be desired, the forwards not working together so well, and the halves were also off it. At the same time, the Sheffield players were going well, and the two goals were very useful, though not obtained through any special effort. The second half found the Everton men more often attacking, and as the game progressed the pressure on the Sheffield goal was almost continual. How the ball was kept out many a time was a mystery, but there always seemed to be someone’s legs in the way, and at the same time Earp and Langley defended desperately. It only wanted fifteen minutes from time when Boyle dropped the ball in and beat Allan, and the attacks of the Everton men were even more fierce than before. Milward at length put his side on a level footing, and there was some cheering I can tell you. The Sheffield forwards had another look in before the close, but I should think they were well content with a draw. They are a splendid team from the goalkeeper to the centre forward, and believe in getting the ball along, whilst Earp and Langley to say nothing about the halves, want a lot of beating. Now that Holt has signed, the figure he receives is engaging the attention of the public, and all sorts of wild stories are circulated as to the extent of the directors’ concession. The clever little player does not receive any more than the other members of the team, but is simply on a level footing, as he considered he ought to be, and I think after his play on Saturday the club’s supporters will agree he is worth it, and ought to have it. The new directors of the Everton club are being memorialised by the shareholders for better accommodation. They certainly have been treated in and off hand manner, as the portion of the grand stand at their disposal has been so narrowed down until only the ends are available. This is the result of people willing to pay higher prices for seats, and those who pay a guinea or two guineas have a right to a good view of the proceedings. Bur members who stood by the club, even of they only pay 7s 6d, have a right to be considered, and I am pleased to hear their claims have been met, and in future they will have a place allotted them.
A likely youth from Blackburn has been engaged as centre forward. He is not yet ripe for the position in the Everton team, but Edgar Chadwick has a high opinion of his abilities, and another prominent right wing from Scotland may be down before the new year.

EVERTON v.  NOTTS FOREST
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 9, 1895
Glorious weather favoured the occasion of the second League match at Goodison Park on Saturday, and drew together a crowd of enormous proportions. This was especially gratifying after the heavy rain of Friday night and the early morning, which promised anything but fair weather for the votaries of football. A goodly crowd of Notts people followed their team, which did not fare at all well at the hands of the Everton players last season, being beaten the first time of asking by 6 goals to 1, and on the occasion of the return game at Nottingham suffering defeat by 3 goals to 2. Everton were first to appear to the accompaniment of a ringing cheer, Holt coming in for a special ovation, whilst the Foresters who immediately followed were also warmly welcomed. Boyle lost the toss, and Notts elected to defend the Park goal, Everton having to face a powerful sun and a slight breeze. The Evertonians started at a great rate, Bell and Williams making straight for Notts territory, and when well in front, Chadwick shot with great force, but scarcely gave the right direction to the ball, which whizzed by the side of the goal post. The visitors answered on their right wing, but the ball, on being tipped to Hillman was quickly placed out of harm’s way. Williams shortly afterwards came into possession, and made another speedy run, but Scott succeeded in averting danger, and midfield play ensued, Holt being cheered for a pretty bit of play which placed Kerr at a distinct disadvantage. Here play remained for a while. Hands against Notts put Everton once more in an aggressive attitude, Boyle landing the free kick right into Allsopp’s hands, but the custodian was well on the alert and prevented disaster to his side, the ball ultimately passing over. Another free kick improved Everton’s position, whilst hands close in against Notts gave them an undeniable chance, but Stewart shot high over the bar. A brilliant forward movement on the part of the home front line then took place, Williams especially distinguishing himself, having particularly hard line in not scoring. However, a second later the desired result came, Holt serving up to Milward, who scored for Everton seven minutes from the start amidst a terrific out-burst of cheering. Another lively tussle in midfield ended in favour of the Everton players, who once more advanced in attacking order, and the Notts goal was subjected to a severe bombardment. Flewitt and Chadwick each tried to pierce their opponents’ defence, but to no purpose, and then McInnes made off at top speed down the visitors’ left wing. He succeeded in passing Boyle and Kelso, but immediately afterwards ran the ball out of play. This gave the home team a fresh lease of life, of which they were not slow to avail themselves, rushing up to the front of the Foresters’ goal, and Bell troubling Allsopp with a grand shot. The game was suspended for a few minutes on account of an injury to Pike, but fortunately he was able to resume. Almost immediately on resuming Everton were again to the fore. Bell passing beautifully to Williams, who from a difficult angle was within a few inches of the goal. A free kick at centre half was taken by Adams, with the result that the home left wing came into play, but were checked by Ritchie, and then Holt and Adams each had a share in enabling their comrades to once more force the pace. Ere long Milward shot into the net, but as one of the Everton players obstructed the goalkeeper, the referee disallowed the point. Continuing the pressure, the home left wing forced a corner, and on this being cleared the visitors scampered off to the other end, good work being meanwhile done by Carnelley, Pike, and Kerr who in their passage down the field displayed excellent tactics. A mistake by Chadwick let in the Foresters, McInnes, F.R. Forman, and Kerr taking advantage of this and dashing off at top speed, the inside left man sending in a hot one to Hillman, who was compelled to concede a corner. Boyle got this away, but an informality close in brought the ball back to within a couple of yards of the Everton goal. Williams grandly staved off defeat and sent the ball out of danger, the Everton front taking up the running, some brilliant work on the part of Holt and the whole forward line resulting in Chadwick scoring the second goal, long kicking by the respective backs followed another attack on Allsopp’s charge and then a grand rush was made towards Hillman, who had not the slightest difficulty in clearing his lines. A more systematic attack on the part of the Foresters followed F.R. Forman, Kerr, and McInnes doing excellent work. Eventually the last-named player screwed into goal, the ball travelling by the side of the post. Then Flewitt came into possession after Kelso and Williams had made play, but the centre forward came to grief when racing off at top speed. Bell took up the running and shot with splendid effect but Allsopp was very smart and effected a grand clearance for which he was greatly cheered, Kelso was hard pressed, but he saved well, Pike meeting his kick and trying a long shot which Hillman saved, but at the expense of a profitless corner. Some exciting work was witnessed in dangerous proximity to the Everton citadel and at length the ball went into the net, but the whistle had sounded for a previous informality, and of course the point did not count. Play now fluctuated a great deal and both sides were having an equal share of attacks and defence, with the difference that Everton were displaying the surest method. Some lovely spells of passing between Holt, Williams, and Bell had the effect of enabling the home players to gradually make their way from the centre to the Notts quarters, and then the ball was flashed to the centre, where Flewitt guided it on to Chadwick and this player put in a somewhat soft shot which Allsopp evidently misjudged for although he played the ball he allowed it to drop into the net this being the third goal to Everton’s account. A couple of minutes later Stewart sent in with unerring precision, but on this occasion Allsopp was on the alert, and made no mistake, saving his charge capitally. Following this, a lot of midfield play was witnessed, after which Kelso was considerably hampered by the visiting left wing. He, however, did not permit any liberties to be taken and twice repulsed the would-be invaders. Still the Forest would not be shaken off, and Kerr was given a good opening, but shot high over. Everton from the goal kick, raced straight away, and Flewitt, receiving the ball just at the right moment from Chadwick, fairly electrified Allsop with the force of this shot, which resulted in goal No4 to Everton. The crowd were now almost trantle, the continued successes of their favourites being received with demonstrations of delight. With the exception of a brief breakaway by Notts, Everton pressed to the interval, taking three abortive corners. Half-time score;- Everton 4, goals; Forest nil. When the teams made their appearance after the interval the crowd had increased to about 20,000. The opening moves of the second half were marked by some remarkably crisp play, of which the Foresters had slightly the best, gradually working their way to the front of Hillman, when Adams bored his way in and cleared splendidly, Boyle took a free kick at the centre, but immediately afterwards hands against Chadwick nullified any advantage which had hitherto been gained. Still the Everton front rank became once more persistent in endeavouring to piece the Notts defence, but were at length cleared out owing to the prowess of Scott. The Forest forwards forced ahead in fine style, and it looked any odds-on Hillman coming to grief as half-backs and backs were passed. The Notts right wing played with spirit and effect, but Adams proved a serious stumbling block. Then followed a lovely spell of passing by Boyle, Williams, and Bell and this enabled the Evertonians to establish a foothold at close quarters. Another moment passed, and then Bell had an opening, of which he speedily availed himself, banging the ball into the net, and scoring the fifth goal for Everton, Allsopp not having a chance to save what was the finest goal of the match, and after Allsopp had hot rid of a shot, Milward came into possession and scored the sixth goal. Imbued with their repeated successes there was positively no chance of checking the onward career of the Everton men, who were simply irresistible. Smart work on the part of Boyle and Stewart led up to a still further onslaught on the Reds’ goal leaving Allsopp practically a spectator of the performance. The visitors were now fairly outplayed, and Everton had matters much their own way for a prolonged period. Carnelley scored the first goal for Notts, and just before the finish McInnes added a second point. Final- Everton 6 goals, Notts Forest 2 goals. Teams;- Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Adams, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Flewitt, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Notts Forest;- Allsopp, goal; Scott, and Ritchie, backs; F. Forman, McPherson, and A. Stewart, half-backs; McInnes, F.R. Foreman, Kerr, Carnelly, and Pike, forwards.

EVERTON V BURY
September 10, 1895. Birmingham Daily Post
At Liverpool, before 6,000 spectators, the weather being brilliantly fine. Bury kicked off against the sun, and had the worst of the play. Bell opened the scoring for Everton, points followed from Chadwick and Milward. The home side pressed repeatedly, and the Bury goal had narrow escapes. The visitors spurted down once or twice, and Plant scored, Wyllie getting a second. Half-time; Everton 3, Bury 2. Upon resuming both goals were attacked and had narrow escapes, Bell missing a couple of chances when close in. Play was lively, both sides doing their utmost to score. Hillman got a nasty kick on the head and play was suspended for a few minutes. After this Everton pressed, but were repulsed by the Bury backs, who showed sterling defence. Result Everton 3, Bury 2.

EVERTON 3 BURY 2
September 10 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
The first visit of the Bury team as full-blown first Leaguers did not arouse too much enthusiasm as was expected and the aggregate of the crowd numbered about 8,000. The teams were: - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Kelso, and Adams backs Goldie Boyle (captain), and Stewart, halfbacks, Williams, Bell, Fleapit, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Bury: - Montgomery, goal, Davidson, and Davies, backs, Pray, Clegg, and Ross, halfbacks, Wylie, Moonie, Barbour, Henderson, and Plant, forwards. Mr. Kirkham, Darwen referee. Everton won the toss and taking advantage of the wind and sun were the first to show up, Flewitt almost getting through in the first few minutes. A foul to Bury gave temporary relief, and Plant and Henderson ran down, Hillman having to handle smartly to effort a clearance. Moonie and Wylie got in some pretty effective passes on the Bury right, but they failed to make any impression on the home defence, and on Adams finally clearing Flewitt and Bell combined nicely, with the result the latter player sent in a stinging shot, which found its way into the net after striking the under portion of the crossbar. Play had no sooner been resumed then the ball was again worked down to the Bury quarters and Chadwick sent in a slow shot at Montgomery, who slipped, and no, 2 goal was registered. Except for an occasional burst by Plant and Henderson whose pass was high over the bar by Moonie the Everton team were in complete possession of the game, and after 20 minutes Milward ran in and converted a rattling good pass by Williams into the third point. Shots all too high were levelled by Bell, Chadwick, and Goldie, after which Kelso was beset by his opponents, but Adams came to the rescue, and cleared easily. Milward took up the running and drove hard in when near goal, but Davidson charged his shot down, as his partner did also to another directly following from Williams. Dilatory play by the Bury forwards let in Everton again, and play was exceedingly tame for some time the Bury backs miskicking on several occasions. At length Wylie got past Stewart but upon being faced by Adams kicked wildly over the bar. Nothing of any racement followed. Beynold some tall kicking till the visiting right again got to work and Wylie although sandwiched by Adams and Stewart passed forward to Moonie, who drove in splendid style, bringing out Hillman with a magnificent effort, who conceded a corner. From this point Wylie placed in so accurately that Plant easily defeated Hillman after clearing with a good shot close in. during the next few minutes the Bury forwards, taking advantage of some rather loose play on the part of the Everton defenders, often came within reach of Hillman, and eventually Wylie, who was palpably offside, put the ball into the net, and to the great astonishment of the spectators and players alike, the referee allowed the goal. The second reverse fairly aroused the Evertonians, who swarmed round Montgomery's charge and shots were rained in thick and fast, but the Custodian was at this juncture full of resource, and cleared admirably. A few minutes later the whistle announced the interval, when the scored stood- Everton, 3 goals, Bury 2. The second half opened woth the Everton forwards in possession, and Williams sent in a shot which, however, lacked fire. Bell followed with a couple of attempts, the result of fine passing by his partner but both went wide, following which Barbour out in some timely touches to Plant, who completely defeated Kelso, and sent in a grand cross shot, which glided past the bar, and again after Moonie and wylie had worked the ball down the left, Henderson shot in, but this with no better result. At length Williams appealed to have a fine opening, but Davidson chipped in neatly, and a moment later Chadwick had the disappointment of seeing one of his noted screw shot just missing the net by inches. From an Everton point of view play livened up considerably, and for some time the ball was kept bobbing about the Bury defence, but both Davidson and Davies met all efforts to score with good injudgement. From a breakaway by the centre Wylie got possession, and sent in a magnificent shot, which just grazed the crossbar. The same player followed with another, and Hillman, in falling forward to save, was met by Plant, who was rushing across, and received a nasty kick on the head, which caused some little delay in the proceedings. Getting to work again, Bury had just slightly the lead in movements, mainly through weakness of the left half, who was often out his place, a defeat which the Bury left were not slow to take advantage of however, by some sterling play on the part of Boyle and Stewart, danger was often averted, though several times it was found expedient to drive back to Hillman when hard pressed. Chadwick and Milward at length got off, and the former sent in a hot shot, which rebounded from the crossbar, and within the next few minutes the same player followed with a couple, but there was no defeating the Bury backs, who defended their charge magnificently. Getting away again, a couple of corners fell to Bury, but nothing came of them. At this juncture Milward fell back to strengthen the defence, and play which, all through the second half was not at the greatness character, took a most vigorous turn, not unmixed with a sprinkling rough methods. Nothing further was scored, and Everton won by 3 goals to 2.

TRANMERE ROVERS RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 2
September 10 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
These clubs opposed each other in friendly rivalry at Tranmere last evening, before fully 2,000 spectators. Jeffs kicked off uphill, for the Rovers, who made headway up the right wing McKinley and Rendall being especially prominent. McKinley tested Cook with a fine shot, but Parry and McDonald eventually relieved the pressure. Everton attacked in turn McInnes Reay, and Murray, by a sequence of pretty passing, got within shooting distance of Baxter and after Spencer had effected a clearance Hill got hold and defeated Baxter. Jeffs Rendall and McKinlay were cheered for grand play up the centre and right wing and Jeff experienced very hard line with a shot, which went over the crossbar off Parry's head. Halftime-Everton 1 goal, Tranmere Rovers nil. On charging ends the Rovers playing down hill, created a most favorable impression, by the combined attack on the Everton goal, which for a time proved impenetrable, so well was it defended by Elliott McDonald, and Parry. Lawrence and Hilton put in some clever work, and once Hilton met a lovely centre from Rendell, which Cook however saved. Still crowding around the Everton goal, the Rovers made matters extremely warm for the visitor's defence. McKinley sent in a shot which Parry charged down, but Douglas (who was lying well down the field) passed to Jeffs, who equalised the game with a beautiful shot, which passed into the net just under the crossbar quite out of Cook's reach. McInnes changed places with Hill which resulted in Everton adding another goal McInnes received a centre from Hill and tested Baxter, who cleared temporarily but McInnes met the ball once more and placed the issue beyond doubt. A couple of free kicks and a abortive corner afterwards gave Everton a chance to increase their score, but Price Spencer, and Davidson were in champion form for the Rovers, and repelled quite a number of dangerous shots. Result Everton 2 goals Tranmere Rovers 1 goal. Teams- Everton: - Cook, goal, Parry, and McDonald, backs, Elliott, Melklejohn, and Jones, halfbacks, Reay, McInnes, Hill, Murray, and Scholfield, forwards, Tranmere Rovers: - Baxter, goal, Spencer (w), and Price, backs, Davidson, Douglas, and Anderson, halfbacks, McKinley, Rendell, Jeffs, Lawrence, and Hilton, forwards.

EVERTON COMBINATION v  TRANMERE ROVERS
The Birkenhead News, Wednesday, September 11, 1895
The Tranmere Rovers’ first team opened the season at their Borough-road enclosure in fine style on Monday evening, when they were visited by a strong Everton Combination team, which included two League players in McInnes and Parry. There was a gate numbering fully 2,000 persons, and the liveliest excitement prevailed throughout, the game being finely contested. During the first half, Jeffs, McKinley and Rendall were prominent with grand play at the Rovers’ centre and on the right wing, and Jeffs was unfortunate in not scoring from splendid shot, which Parry just managed to send over the bar with a hurried head thrust. Half-time came with Everton leading by one goal to nil. Then the Rovers showed up in good style, evincing most commendable combination in their ranks. They attacked Everton’s goal repeatedly and it was as much as Elliott, McDonald, and Parry could do to keep out the shots. Lawrence and Hilton shone. The equalising point was the result of a fine bit of play. McKinlay sent in a shot which Parry charged down, but Douglas lying well out, receiving the ball and passed to Jeffs, who sent the ball in just underneath the bar and quite out of Cook’s reach. McInnes then changed from inside right to centre, and the result was another goal for Everton. Then the latter became dangerous and but for the vigorous play of Price, Davidson, and Spencer would have scored several times. The game ended in a win for Everton Combination by 2 goals to 1. The teams were as follows;- Everton; Cook, goal; Parry, and McDonald, backs; Elliott, Meiklejohn, and Jones, half-backs; Reay, McInnes, Hill, Murray, and Schofield, forwards. Tranmere Rovers; Baxter, goal; W. Spencer, and Price, backs; Davidson, Douglas, and Anderson, half-backs; McKinlay, Rendall, Jeffs, Lawrence., and Hilton, forwards. McKinlay and Lawrence are old Roverites, while Davidson, Rendle, Douglas and W. Williams represented the new blood. On the whole, the spectators of the Rovers were satisfied, judging from their continuous applause, with the way their favourites played against such a strong team, and the players are to be congratulated on such a good exhibition. Everyone did yeoman service in their respective positions. Regarding the Everton team, as everyone has read so much about them, it would be useless for me to try and discuss their merits, everyone knows that as a Combination team none can equal it.

JOHNNY HOLT
Leigh Chronicle and Weekly District Advertiser-Friday 13, September 1895
Johnny Holt, who is now in business at leigh, has again signed on for Everton and his re-appearance on Saturday was the signal for a hearty outburst of cheering. Holt is a champion little half back player.

DICK WILLIAMS
Birkenhead News-Saturday 14 September 1895
It is said that Dick Williams, the late Everton goalkeeper, will this season be found again playing for his old club, the Bromborough Pool A.F.C.

NOTTS AT EVERTON
Nottingham Football News -Saturday 14 September 1895
Last season sure enough, the brake pulled up to allow half a dozen funeral coaches to pass. The number was noted by one player, who remarked at the time “That means six goals,” and true enough six goals were scored by Everton in that match, the “reds” being defeated by six to one. The long arm of coincidence stretched itself out once more on Saturday last, when almost within a few yards of the place where the procession was passed last season, the sight of another string of mourning carriages sent a cold thrill down the backs of one or two of the more superstitions of the players. Again there were six of these morning carriages, and again there were six goals scored against Forest. The Everton executive will not, I hope, take the hint. About the game itself at Everton there is very little to be said. the most remarkable feature about it was the rate at which it was played. It was a sweltering, hot day, and but for the refreshing breeze which sprang up at intervals, football would hardly have been possible, at least not such football as was seen. As it was, it was a fearful strain upon the players, but they stood it manfully and almost to a man showed themselves to be in perfect conditions. Winning the toss was a decided advantage to the visitors for Everton had to play during the first half with a powerful sun in their faces. As it happened, however, they did better in the fist stage of the game than they did in the second, when two goals each were scored. The Everton forwards started the game with a vigour which gave the Forest defenders no time to settle down to their work, the old left wingers, Chadwick and Milward, playing a particularly effective game, while Flewitt, a forward with plenty of weight and good judgment, showed up remarkably well in the centre. But after the first goal had been scored as the results of a commendable bit of unselfish play on the part of Flewitt, the visiting forwards got fairly hold of the ball, and the backs had time to look round them. Weakened in the centre, however, and having the worst of luck, the Foresters were compelled to retire without having equalised. Chadwick was playing a fine game for Everton, and this fact being recognised by his fellow-players the result was that he got every chance given him. His second goal was a comparatively easily obtained one, for the left-winger had a clear field and no one to beat but Allsopp, who had not the remotest chance of stopping the ball. The third goal, which Chadwick also scored, was a grand one, however, and the same remark applies to that obtained by Flewitt, who followed the example of Chadwick and shot hard and often. Notwithstanding that they were four goals behind when ends were changed, the visitors showed that they meant making a fight of it, and McInnes, Forman, Pike, and Carnelly worked as if they had only to get a goal to win the match. But Everton had only to get near to the Forest goal, and another point was the result. Bell scored a decidedly lucky goal, the ball travelling past half a dozen players and going through before Allsopp know exactly where it was. Yet another point was put on before Forest started scoring, and it was then too late to give rise to any hopes of averting defeat. From the time that Carnelly scored with a very fine shot, the Foresters had much the best of the play, but still they had no luck. Twice McInnes hit the cross-bar, and once Hillman saved in the luckiest of fashions. It was not until the last minute that Forest managed to score their second goal, Fred Forman crowning a hard day’s work by scoring with a shot which completely beat Hillman, who had kept goal remarkably well. Everton have unquestionably got a very fine team this season, but the score does not in way accurately represent the merits of the two clubs.

FOOTBALL NOTES
The Liverpool Daily Post- Saturday, September 14, 1895
The brilliant form Everton displayed against Notts Forest, coming as it did so soon after their feeble efforts when opposed to Sheffield Wednesday, was quite a revelation to those who had witnessed their previous performances, and it was scarcely possible to believe that the teams doing duty last Monday and on Saturday had the slightest connection with each other. Certainly, there were three alternations in the more recent game from the team which opened the campaign, but it cannot be said that either of the men who stood down from Saturday’s game were one whit inferior to those who took the field against Sheffield Wednesday. Wherein lies the secret of Saturday’s extraordinary transformation. One reason, in our opinion is the fact that since the initial contest the whole of the connected with the club have given themselves up to strict training, the result of which was amply demonstrated by the improved condition of the whole team, each of whom seemed to have got rid of a superabundance of stiffness, which was all too apparent in the first match. It must be said, also, and this without detriment to the men whom they succeeded, that Holt, Flewitt, and Adams made a wonderful difference to the side as a whole, each man falling into his position with case and precision. There is no question that in retaining Holt Everton have done the right thing. His presence undoubtedly exercise a wonderful influence on his comrades. Flewitt is a decided acquisition. Tall and powerfully built, with a fine turn of speed, and a happy knack of knowing what to do with the ball when he gets it, he is sure to make a name for himself and his new club. He created a most favourable impression, and had a big share in the success of the Evertonians. He is possessed of any amount of fire and dash, and is fearless. On Saturday he worked the wing men to perfection. Adams. Too, was in great form, he and Stewart working together with fine ability, and perhaps now that the popular left half has a man behind him who understands his mode of working we shall see some of the old form return. It was apparent almost from the start that Everton meant business, and after Milward had opened the scoring account there was really only one side in it. The combination of the home forwards was beautiful, scarcely a mistake being made, whilst the half line and backs were ever on the alert. Hillman kept out some stinging attempts, and it would perhaps be too hard on him to say that the shots which took effect might have been stopped; but certainly the second point savoured slightly of softness. It was exceedingly gratifying to see Milward in such great form, and that the old dallying he was so frequently guilty of had entirely disappeared. May be shake off the habit permanently, and if that is done Milward will be as dangerous and effective as in his palmy international days. Notts Forest were unquestionably outplayed, particularly in the earlier stages. They, however, came with a rush towards the finish, when Everton appeared to be easing off and resting on their oars. Allsopp, though beaten so often, did not play by any means a bad game, and kept off a lot of shots, whilst Ritchie was very smart at back. The half line, however, was a very weak spot, the Everton forwards simply being able to do what they liked. McInnes, Carnally, and Pike were a hard-working trio of attackers; but Neil Kerr was decidedly off colour, though it must not be forgotten that he had a master in Holt to face. Everton are deserving of every praise for their magnificent performance, and it is sincerely to be hoped that it is not a mere flash in the pain, but a forerunner of what we may expect throughout the season.
Today’s Teams
Everton v Bolton Wanderers, at Bolton, Exchange Station. 2.7.
Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Adams, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Flewitt, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Everton Combination v Leek, at Goodison Park; Kick-off 4.
Everton Combination- Hiles (Oswestry), goal; Parry and McDonald, backs; Jones, Meiklejohn, and Elliott, half-backs; Reay, McInnes, Chadwick (Blackburn), Hill, and Scholfield, forwards.

BOLTON WANDERERS 3 EVERTON 1
September 16 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
Bolton Wanderers open their new ground, Burnden Park
The Everton team visited Bolton on Saturday the occasion being the opening of the Wanderers new ground at Burden Park. A large following of Evertonians travelled by execursion trains from Exchanged Station and for some considerable time before the commencement of the proceedings the ground and its appointments, which were greatly admired, were the topics of general conversation. The Wanderers executive are to be congratulated on the result of their work, for excellent provision for both standing and sitting accommodation has been made, and when the work is completed they will posses one of the finest grounds in the country. An additional attraction in the shape of a cycle contest, which commenced an hour before the match, served to while away, the time, and at four o'clock, when the teams faced, there would be quite 12,000 spectators present. The teams were as follows: - Wanderers: - Sutcliffe, goal, Somerville and Jones, backs, Paton McGeachan, and Fairbairn halfbacks, Martin, Brown Joyce, Wright, and Cassidy, forwards: - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Kelso, and Adams backs, Boyle (captain), Holt, and Stewart halfbacks, Bell McInnes Fewitt, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Mr. John Lewis referee. Everton won the toss and Joyce opened the play on behalf of the Wanderers. The game began somewhat tamely, and following some neat work on the part of Stewart, Milward and Chadwick fastened on the ball, and on Somerville coming to the rescue of his side, the sphere was sent over to Bell, who shot grandly in to Sutcliffe, but without effect. A free kick to the Wanderers brought about a charge of venue, but Holt stood in the way of further progess; and Flewitt made off, only to be robbed by Somerville, who put in a hugh punt up the field, and eventually Wright and Cassidy forced the play on the Wanderers left, a moment which, culminated by Martin shooting in at Hillman, who was penalised for running at the ball, but the Wanderers lost headway, as Freebairn shot badly to the net. From a free kick, taken by Boyle at halfway, the ball glided off Flewitt's head to Sutcliffe who was lucky in reaching it, and then McInnes was twice penalised, which resulted in relief of the Wanderers goal. Returning again Boyle just missed scoring from a beautifully taken corner kick, and immediately afterwards the ball was lobbed to the other end, where Hillman's resource were ably tested by Wright, Cassidy and Brown. A severe pressure was kept up, and eventually Martin lifted the ball over the bar. Again the play swerved to the other end, and Milward only missed the mark by inches. Following some sterling halfback play, the home forwards got fairly under way, but Kelso defended superbly, and often kicked and headed the ball out with good judgement. At this juncture Holt and Wright made for the ball the former to head it and the latter to kick it. Holt headed the ball away, but in doing so also came in contact with Wright's foot, and as the accident was at the time serious he had to retire from the field, this misfortune happening after 23 minutes play. Milward went centre half, and at once the Wanderers pressed severely. Cassidy shot in, and as Hillman only partially saved Martin rushed the ball into the net 25 minutes from the commencement. Free kicks now became frequent, and the general play resulted in heavily pressure on Hillman's charge. In close Flewitt called upon Sutcliffe, but the effort was rather weak, and again McInnes had an easy chance to equalise, but his effort was also tame. A long kick by Jones completely changed the scene, and the home forwards swarmed down on the Everton defenders. Brown at length round Adams and drove the ball across to Cassidy who ably met it and called upon Hillman. The custodian attempted to tip the ball over the bar, but it race straight and from the scrimmage it was rushed into the net for the second time. A magnificent run down by Brown was the next item, and then Chadwick raised the hopes of the Everton crowd on having command in an easy position, but he had the misfortune to see his attempt charged down a similar experienced awaiting a further effort, a few minutes later. Bell next tried his luck, and just grazed the post, and then Joyce made off until Adams brought him up as he was steadying for a shot and assisted by Kelso, the Everton van again got into a good swing. Somerville missed the kick and Chadwick appeared to have a certain goal at his command when Jones crossed over and robbed him beautifully. From a subsequently goal kick Bell fastened on the ball, and passing smartly to McInnes the latter shot in at the corner, giving Sutcliffe no chance to clear. Halftime now arrived with the wanderers leading by 2 goals to 1. On resuming Holt rejoined his comrades, and getting to work the Evertonians were the first to assert themselves. Milward all but put the ball through at the corner, and from the goalkick Mcinnes followed suit, after Bell had completely beaten Jones. A foul charge in goal relieved Sutcliffe, but for some time the Everton forwards had the upper hand, but could not break through the defence of Somerville and Jones. Then Hillman had a warm time as Cassidy and Martin levelled clever shots, and frequently scrimmaging took place in the twelve yard's line. Brown shot high over the bar, and then Flewitt was in grand position, but was ruled offside, and by a series of long kicks the ball was once again bobbling round Hillman's charge. The goalkeeper brought off a magnificent save from Joyce after Cassidy had worked the ball down. Eventually Wright screwed across from the corner, and Joyce headed in with capital judgement. The later stages were until the last minutes fairly even, and as nothing further was scored, the Wanderers won a fair game by 3 goals to 1.

EVERTON RESERVES 6 LEEK 0
September 16 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met at Goodison Park on Saturday for a Combination match, before a fair number of spectators. The home team tried several new players Jones (Wrexham) Hues (Oswestry), and Scholfield (aintree Church) being given a trail. The names of the teams were as follows: - Everton: - Hues goal, McDonald and Storrier backs, Jones Melklejohn, and Elliott halfbacks, Reay, Murray Mainman, Hill, and Schofield forwards. Leek: - Critchlow goal, Low, and Cantral, backs Birch, Hudson, and Bratt, halfbacks, Keats, Lowe, Pratt, Bell, and Swinson, forwards. Right from the kick off Everton were much superior all round, but general defensive tactics by the Leeks team kept Everton at bay for some time and Half time arrived with Everton leading, but one goal to nil. On resuming however, they grandly put a different complexion in the proceedings, and as the result of excellent forward play, ran out easy winners by 6 goals to nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 16 1895. The Liverpool mercury
Everton fell victim to Bolton Wanderers on Saturday. The two scored by the Wanderers in the first half were samples of the luck; the long kicking across the field of play though neither interesting nor scientific was at the same time full of exciting moments. As for fastance when Everton defence was completely non plussed the ball reached Hillman in the mouth of goal, who attempted to save and partially did so, but owing to the Wanderers charging with keen judgement, Hillman efforts was frustrated, and the ball was forced into the net. Similar circumstances and fate attending the second downfall of the Everton citadel. Both of these goals may be considered were lucky for had Hillman only had a moment's more time each would probably have been saved. After this second disaster the visitors seemed best upon taking revenge, and although numerically handicapped they set to with a will, and in evidence of the same after some very, smart play, combined with pretty passing they managed to decrease their opponents lead. After the interval Holt, reappeared, but seemed to be thoroughly upset by his accident, and was of very little use; in fact it would have been more to Everton advantage had to he not rejoined his comrades, as he had by no means recovered from the shock. Both teams were now working practically on the same lines as far as style of play was concerned, but not once during the second portion did the Evertonians look like a winning team and a third goal which resulted from one of the smartest bits of play in the match was recored against them the Wanderers thus emerging by three goals to one. Sutcliffe in goal was as effective as ever, both in resource at critical moments and in kicking and in Somerville and Jones the club had most able defenders. The halfbacks line was a well balanced out. Paton's burly form was often in evidence, and McGeechan, in the centre, was responsible for many fine touches, which gave those in front excellent openings while Fairbairns, on the left was mainly prominent by the close attention to Bell, to whom he struck like a leach throughout the whole game. The forwards worked out their style of play to a nicely. Martin who displaced Tannahill on the outside right, created a favourable impression, and Brown, Wright, and Cassidy had plenty of openings from Joyce, who was a very capable centre. The Everton forwards were somewhat erractic, and much of their disconfidence must be attributed to scant support from the halfbacks line. While Bell and Mcinnes had plenty of work to do, Chadwick and Milward were practically left to make their own play, and especially was this the case in the second portion of the game. Flewitt was not a success in the centre, and Mcinnes did not shine in his position, and we may excpect to find the front rank differently constituted in the next League encounter. Stewart worked hard throughout, and put in some finished work against Martin and Brown who were at their best, and on the other wing Boyle often checked Wright and Cassidy, and put Bell in possession, but there were occasions when it would have been more profitable to have stung the ball over to the left. Adams was often hard pressed, and did his work well, while Kelso played with excellent tact and judgement. Hillman was in good form, and it was his misfortunate not fault, that the score was so pronounced.

BOLTON WANDERERS v.  EVERTON
Bolton Evening News- Monday 16 September 1895
Whatever misgivings one might have entertained with regard to the Wanderers ought to be dispelled after Saturday’s fine victory over Everton, and it is now quite evident that the team is an improvement on last season. Their exhibition left little room for criticism, and such a grand achievement was a happy inauguration of their life at Burden Park. They had the most favourable weather, a splendid gate-the attendance could not number less than 15,000 -and two points at expense of a club which had made them bite the dust for two or three years. Thus, there is every reason to congratulate the club and players on the success which has attended their first important venture on the new enclosure, and we hope it will be the forerunner of many a similar achievement. On the whole the spectators, including visitors from outside, were favourably impressed with the equipment of the ground, but it is to be hoped that in the near future the directors will see their way to provide a press-box, as the present accommodation on the grand stand, though comfortable enough, is dreadfully inconvenient for despatch. In this respect alone is the enclosure behind such grounds as Ewood, Goodison, Perry Barr, Bramell-lane, Sunderland, etc., and if big cup ties or representative matches were played it would be a drawback. It is unnecessary, we think, to again publish the teams, our readers being aware that McInnes partnered Bell on the Everton right and that Tunnshill stood down for Martin on the Wanderers’ side. it was a little advantage for Everton to win the toss, and Hillman was the first called upon, Bell troubling Sutcliffe with a stinger a moment later. The pace was pretty fast, and in the opening stages, both goals were hotly attacked, there being to choose, for if Everton’s combination was the steadier, the Wanderers’ forwards were harder to shake off the ball. They also displayed more dash in front of the posts, and the Everton defence was oftener in difficulties than the home team’s. Somerville and Jones pounded on every chance of clearing, and Sutcliffe kicked and punched away the shots in champion fashion. The game had been in progress 20 minutes when an unfortunate accident happened to Holt, during an attack upon the Everton goal. He made ton head the ball as Wright was kicking, and was badly injured in the face, and stunned so that he had to be carried off. The game had barely been resumed when Wright put the ball across and the right wing dashing up, hustled Hillman as he saved, Martin apparently scoring, Everton were at a disadvantage, with only ten men, Milward being at c entre half, and the Wanderers attacked repeatedly, but Hillman defended his charge well. In a few minutes, however, the Wanderers obtained their second point, for which credits is due to Brown, who received from Martin, slipped round Adams, and screwed across smartly. Cassidy came up and shot against the bar, a scrimmage ensuing, from which the ball was forced over the line. From this point to the interval Everton asserted themselves, McInnes and Bell on the right getting in some taking play. The later once shot splendidly against the side netting. A minute before the interval Everton obtained their only point through McInnes, who sent in a fast long shot, which Sutcliffe could not reach. Against a team like Everton the Wanderers were not considered to be safe, although they had a goal in hand, upon resuming. Holt again turned out, so that with Milward again on the left wing, Everton had now a fair chance. For a time, the visitors had slightly the best of matters, but the Wanderers met them splendidly in all departments, and after a quarter of an hour the home forwards went at it harder than ever. They were well fed by the half-backs, but their shooting was more forcible than accurate. From one run by Everton there was a terrible scrimmage under the Bolton posts, from which Sutcliffe ultimately emerged triumphant. Cassidy made several determined rushes, and from one of his shots Adams had to concede a corner. This was well placed, and headed out, but Wright passed in again, and Joyce headed a lovely goal. After this the Wanderers were masters of the situation, and it was only by the fine defence of Everton that they were prevented from increasing the score. Jones actually did shoot through from a free kick, but Mr. Lewis had not given the signal and no goal was allowed. On another occasion Cassidy had the hard luck to hit the bar after a grand run. Towards the finish Everton were completely overplayed, and the Wanderers won handsomely by three goals to one. The Wanderers won the match by pegging away for the whole ninety minutes and never slackening the pace. They did splendidly all round. The forwards worked together without any fancy combination. Their sole aim was getting to the goal and letting fly, and it paid them. The only  fault worth pointing out is that they pass the ball too often without looking, and keep it in the air more than is necessary, Brown and Martin made a capital right wing, the former’s passing leaving nothing to be desired, whilst Martin was very frisky. Joyce is a wonderfully plucky player for his size, and the way in which he galloped along raised many a cheer. Wright again display command over the ball, and took a great deal out of Boyle. Cassidy did his full share on the outside left, putting plenty of dash into his play. It was his best game this season. Altogether the forwards gave satisfaction, and we cannot speak of any of the remainder of the team in anything but terms of praise. As a trio the half-backs were superior to the Everton three, and that is a big order. They fed the forwards better than usual. The backs played one of their way best games, and on such occasions they are equal to any in the kingdom. Sutcliffe’s goalkeeping was no little factor in the victory. Everton were certainly disappointing and there was not that sting in their play which scores goals. Flewitt was a long way below Everton form, and Chadwick and Milward did not shine with their usual prominence. Bell was inclined to be too individual, but he was the most dangerous of the five, and with McInnes formed the best wing. There was a weakness at half back, for Holt had most of his play knocked out of him by his injury, and Boyle and Stewart can do much better. We are afraid it is only too true that Everton are a very ordinary team without the little centre half. The play of the backs was scarcely as steady as it ought to have been. Adams was cool and did many clever things, and Kelso came out strong on several occasions, but they suffered in comparison with the Wanderers’ pair. The burly Hillman had plenty of work, and he defended his charge in fine style. Since joining Everton he seems to have dropped his tomfoolery. It was not a brilliant game in which many fine points were seen, and on such form Everton are more likely to land near the top of the League. They were thoroughly beaten on the play.

THE LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday, September 16, 1895
By the Loiterer
The good opinion formed of the play of the Everton team against Notts Forest is by this time modified a little. Against Bury, on Monday, they started splendidly, and three goals were quickly obtained. The subsequent play, however, was a poser to those who witnessed it. One or two players seemed inclined to take matters easily, and this just suited the Bury men, who were as lively as kittens. They let nothing slip for the want of trying, and the way the half-backs secured the ball many a time rather upset the calculations of the Everton forwards, who seemed to think the game should be played on scientific principles only, and each man do his own part. This was just where they made a mistake, for if one Bury man failed in his object another was there ready to have a try, and for a good hard play the Bury halves and backs won golden opinions. They never know when they were beaten, and the way they blocked the ball and kept it out of goal was a treat. Then the forwards know where their opponents’ goal lay, and there was some cleverness shown in working the ball, and very little ground was lost in making for it. In Wylie and Plant they have two good outside men, and the others are no duffers. The shooting, too, was above the average and altogether the team gave a good account of themselves. Their vigorous play quite upset the Everton men, and for once in a way Boyle completely lost his head, and so did the referee. I consider Everton were fortunate in getting the two points, and, to show the straits they were in, Milward was brought to play extra back, so dangerous were the Bury men towards the finish. Of course, Holt’s absence may account for something, for Gouldie was hardly a success; but the teams generally wanted shaking up, and they got it. The results of the League games so far do not compare favourably with last season, for already they have dropped a point with Sheffield Wednesday And two at Bolton. There is some satisfaction out of Saturday’s results with Aston Villa and Sunderland going down, and maybe the team will finish up better, for last season they started well and concluded badly. Still, points in hand are more substantial than prospective ones, and also look better in the table. The officials speak highly of the new ground at Bolton, and though Everton have generally done well at the old enclosures, Burnden Park, barring the accident on Saturday, is preferable to the wilderness of Pike’s lane.
The Everton team did not allow the indifferent result of Monday last to interfere with a little affair they had on hand, and in which Edgar Chadwick took a prominent part, Chadwick is a prominent public man, and as such he cannot be allowed to get married without everybody knowing of it, and I am pleased to say his comrades made a note of it, and last Monday as ever was they presented him with a handsome marble timepiece.
It was expected that Cameron will be down during the week, and able to take part in the game at an early date. With Flewitt doing well it is likely he will play inside right to bell, but nothing is settled at present. Much will depend on the way the team shapes, for it is risky chopping and changing with the season so young.
The Everton Combination contingent is evidently as strong as ever, and the teams forming the combination will have a rough time of it. If the game with Leek is anything to go by they will carry everything before them, for notwithstanding a good defence, six goals to none were put on.

BOLTON WANDERERS v.  EVERTON
The Athletic News- Monday, September 16, 1895
THE FIRST VICTORY AT BURDEN PARK
By the Tramp
What may be termed the serious opening of the new home of the Bolton Wanderers was accomplished on Saturday afternoon, the occasion being the first of the League engagements with the Everton F.C. the fine enclosure really received its baptism on Wednesday evening, when the Wanderers and North End net in a friendly tussle for the benefit of D. Jones, the captain of the Bolton team, and, although the attendance, owing to the blustering elements, was hardly up to expectations, it is gratifying to know that Jones will not a very respectable sum. He deserves it, as he has rendered yeoman service for many years past. Saturday was a model day for football, and there was a big crowd. Scattered round the quarter-mile track were some 14,000 spectators, and yet there was ample room for many thousands more. When completed the accommodation will be tremendous, and everybody will have an uninterrupted view of the game. It was an inspiriting sight, and the directors and others no doubt felt some reward for their labours in the showers of praise from the lips of those who visited the ground for the first time. The grand stand was voted a very comfortable structure; indeed, the arrangements were in every way satisfactory. As the kick off was fixed for the late hour of four o’clock, for the convenience of the visitors and their friends, there was a prior attraction in the shape of an hour’s cycle rase for local Zimmermans, and the idea served to entertain the earlier arrivals. Fourteen started, and four finished, of whom W.L. Armour came in first with over a lap to the good. His distance was 200 miles 990 yards-not exactly a record, but a good performance, which could have been materially improved if necessary. As to the football, I have seen faster games, but there were plenty of interesting points, and it cannot be said that the play over became dull. Mr. John Lewis was the conductor, and he had charge of the following teams;- Everton.- Hillman, goal; Kelso and Adams, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; McInnes, Bell, Flewitt, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Wanderers; Sutcliffe, goal; Somerville, and Jones, backs; Paton, McGeachan, and Freebairn half-backs; Martin, Brown, Joyce, Wright, and Cassidy, forwards. Operations had not been long in progress when Holt was seen to flatten himself out after kicking the ball-no one was near him- and knowing what a penchant Johnny has for these tricks the bulk of the spectators were inclined to laugh, especially as he was speedily on his feet again. Some time later, however, the same player was the victim of an unfortunate mishap, which won the sympathy of everybody present. Weight kicked, and Holt headed at the ball simultaneously, and, as both missed, boot and face came into violent contact. Holt’s left cheek bone was cut open, and for a time the famous International was in a semi-conscious condition. Several of his comrades carried him into the dressing room, where Dr. Baxter, the chairman of the Everton Directors, looked after the wounded man. Everton had to plod on without Holt’s valued assistance up to the interval, during which time they lost a couple of goals, the first being obtained by Martin and Brown, and the second accruing from a scrummage, McInnes, with a long shot, rubbed one off, and at half-time the Wanderers were a point to the good. Holt turned out again on resuming, but he could not do much, Everton being this handicapped for the bulk of the game. Despite this fact, however, the visitors played up manfully, and against a weaker defence would doubtless have scored more than once. As it was, however, the only goal of this half fell to Joyce, from a screw by Wright, and the upshot was a victory for the Wanderers by three goals to one- an exact reversal of the result when Everton were last in Bolton. It is, of course, not possible to say what might have happened had it not been for the accident to Holt. The centre half-back-and especially such an centre as the little Evertonian-is practically the key to the team, and in losing his services the visitors suffered seriously. With Holt fit and well, I rather think the result would have been very close indeed. As it was, Sutcliffe had just about As much to do as had Hillman, and he gave a very good exhibition of goalkeeping. The defence of the Boltonians generally was superior to that of their rivals, the backs being a trifle steadier, and their tackling a little more certain. Adams played a good game, and seems an improved man on last season’s display. Bob Kelso was fearless, as usual, but hardly at his best. Boyle did his work in finished style, his judgement being always high class. Still, he was no better than McGeachan, who was repeatedly conspicuous for his clever tactics, as was Patron for his pertinacity and sound defence. He’s a rare trier is “Sandy,” and Freebairn completed a very powerful trio of half-backs. The home forwards worked well together, and when well on the way were not easily pulled up. Martin and Brown made a very grow wing, and the left pair also put in some telling play. Joyce is on the small side for a centre-forward, but he did many smart things, especially considering he had a bad leg. As a whole, the forwards may be said to have given satisfaction. Those on the other side were prominent rather for individualism than for combination, and seldom rose to a high standard. Bell is always good, and McInnes was dangerous more than once, but Flewitt did not strike me as anything very great. Chadwick was smart, like he always is, but he was over fond of dodging about with the ball instead of making tracks for the goals. He paid the penalty for this more than once, Paton sticking to him closer than a brother, Milward made an effective half-back whilst Holt was off the field, and in his proper position subsequently, he sometimes gave trouble to the Bolton defence. His shooting-a remark that will apply to all the forwards-might have been much improved, this fault being commented upon pretty freely throughout the game.

BOLTON v. EVERTON
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 16, 1895
The Bolton Wanderers’ new ground at Burnden Park, Bolton, was really opened on Saturday, although Preston North End and the Wanderers played a friendly match the other evening for the benefit of Jones, the Welsh international. Saturday’s match was the first of the English League fixtures on the ground, and was generally looked upon as the opening event. An hour or two before the commencement of the match thousands of people gathered around the enclosure to witness a sixty minutes’ bicycle race, and the created a great amount of excitement. The weather was exceedingly gloomy and threatening, but failed to deter a goodly number of Liverpool football enthusiasts from travelling to Bolton to follow the fortunes of their favourities. Everton depended upon the same team that defeated Notts Forest on the previous Saturday, with the exception that McInnes appeared vice Williams, who is suffering from a severe cold, and the Wanderers turned out their full strength. The game commenced at four o’clock under the supervision of Mr. Lewis, of Blackburn, in the presence of about 10,000 spectators. Joyce started, and the Wanderers looked like getting a foothold, as after Chadwick and Milward had made an attempt to get through Brown worked his way back, and Hillman was called upon to save. A pass from Chadwick to Flewitt ended in Bell sending in a spanking shot, which caused Sutcliffe a lot of trouble. Boyle returned to the attack, and then McInnes had a shie, the ball going outside. The play continued in favour of Everton, who for a time could not be induced to leave their opponents’ territory. The pressure was relieved by a brilliant spurt on the part of Joyce, but the tables were turned almost immediately by Kelso who cleared out his opponents by means of a well-judged kick. This led to the attack on Sutcliffe’s goal, the ball going outside. Fouls to either side culminated in the leather being sent flying to Hillman, who ran with the ball, and was penalised but after a stiff struggle Jones kicked over the crossbar, and the Wanderers thus lost a great opportunity. Despite the dogged defence of the homesters, the Everton men gradually worked their way to the other end, where an unproductive corner was taken. Following up the advantage in fine style, the visitors took a second corner, and Boyle then struck the crossbar. Wright and Cassidy rushed to the other end, Cassidy having hard lines when his shot was cleverly stopped by Hillman. Cassidy then shot strongly, and Martin had a turn, after which the ball went out of play. Stewart headed the ball over to Bell, who headed for goal, but unsuccessfully, and then Milward and McInnes made an endeavour to reduce the home goal, but without avail. A stoppage was hereabouts made owing to an injury on Holt, who was so badly hurt about the left eye and head that as a result he had to be carried off the field. With ten men the team was rearranged, Milward going centre half and four forwards only being played. The Wanderers forced their opponents back, and Joyce made an attempt at goal after which Martin sent in a splendid shot which defeated Hillman after about twenty-five minutes’ play. A free kick against Kelso enabled the Wanderers to throng round the Everton goal, and several unproductive corners were taken. Although the Evertonians worked manfully they appeared unable to check the onward rush of the Wanderers, who time after time got within shooting distance before being pulled up. A free kick against the homesters enabled the Everton front rank to advance strongly, but they could not keep up the pressure, and Boyle kicked out, which scarcely pleased the spectators. The ball was nicely worked up again, and Chadwick shot, but Sutcliffe had no difficulty in saving his charge. A brilliant spell of passing followed between Bell, McInnes and Flewitt, but McGeachan broke this up, and a throw in on the Bolton right led to an exceedingly but attack on the Everton goal. Three or four attempts were made to defeat Hillman the ball bobbing up and down in a most tantalising manner. Finally however, Cassidy managed to tip the leather into the net, amid tumultuous applause. Flewitt got to work but was spoiled by Jones, and then brown took the ball into Everton territory, but he was splendidly checked by Adams. Bell, McInnes, and Flewitt again made play on the right and centre, but lamentable weakness was apparent when a shot might have taken effect. From a free kick Adams placed the call nicely to the right wing, and Bell took it through and poised himself for a shot. There was no mistake about his shooting, but the hardest of hard luck was his portion, the ball striking the corner of the goal and bouncing behind. Another shot was kicked out of the goalmouth by Somerville, but shortly afterwards McInnes took a long low shot and scored the first goal for Everton. When half-time arrived, the Wanderers led by 2 goals to 1. It turned out that Holt, who had been attended to by Dr. Baxter, was not so seriously injured as was at first supposed by being able to appear along with his comrades when the teams changed ends, and was loudly cheered. In the first minute Milward caused Sutcliffe some trouble with a daisy-cutter, and after the Trotters had been pulled up for hands there came a swinging move along the Everton right. Bell somewhat easily beat Somerville, but Paton came up and kicked out to save. Soon afterwards Sutcliffe was in trouble, and but for a little indecision on the part of the Everton players another goal might have been netted. At the other end Hillman came out and cleared a dangerous shot from Martin, and a couple more shies from the same quarter went perilously near the mark. Kelso and Boyle enabled Bell and McInnes to move up along with Flewitt, but still there was no score. The Wanderers’ left wing retaliated and claimed a corner. The ball was dropped in front and partially cleared but Joyce met the return and scored. The home team afterwards had a goal disallowed, and they had the greater part of the game to the final, the result being in their favour by 3 goals to 1. Teams;- Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Adams, backs; Boyle (Captain), Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, McInnes, Flewitt, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Bolton Wanderers- Sutcliffe, goal; Somerville and Jones, backs; Paton, McGreachan, and Fairbrother, half backs; Martin, Brown, Joyce, Wright and Cassidy, forwards.

THE COMBINATION
The Liverpool Daily Post, September 16, 1895.
EVERTON COMBINATION v LEEK
Played at Goodison Park on Saturday, in glorious weather, and before a good attendance, Everton started ten minutes late, and for some time had much the best of matters. Schofield having a good shie, the ball, however, being sent wide. Pratt put in a fine sprint on behalf of the Staffordshire men, and his effort, too, was fruitless. After this, Everton kept up a continual pressure on the visitors’ goal and after several shots had been successfully kept out by Critchlow, Hill succeeded in getting one beyond his reach, thus placing the first point to the credit of the Evertonians. Leek made another sudden rush after this, but the defence was too good for them, Meiklejohn on one occasion, clearing beautifully, Jones was twice to the fore with judicious work, which enabled his side to again take up the attack, which they maintained for a prolonged period, but fine defence of J. Lowe and Cantrill were successful in preventing any addition to the score. Hiles was called upon to clear a shot, which he did to advantage, after which Everton again assumed the upper head, and must have scored, on two or three occasions but for the really brilliant defence of J. Lowe, who cleared time after time in magnificent style. Murray was very busy, and sent in a couple of reaping shots, from the second of which Critchlow was compelled to concede a corner. This was cleared but Everton were back again in a trice, and much amusement was created by their frantic efforts to defeat Critchlow, Jones and Hiles afterwards were seen to advantage in smart defensive tactics and at the other end Reay, Murray, and Schofield made several ineffectual attempts to add to the score. Mainman making about the best effort. At the interval Everton were leading by 1 goal to nil. Platt restarted, Everton at once going off with a rush, but Meiklejohn shot into the goalkeeper’s heads, Elliott soon afterwards having a further ineffectual shie. A foul close in gave Everton an undeniable chance, the goal, however, being too well packed to penetrate. The Leek backs and custodian were playing a fine game and although Everton were continually pressing a goal was a long time in coming. At last Elliott sent across to the opposite wing, where Reay came into possession and centred beautifully, Mainman completing a good all-round movement by scoring Everton’s second goal. Everton had nearly all the play after this, and, after several vain attempts, Murray scored a third goal, Reay following with a fourth, whilst Mainman put on a fifth. Final result; Everton Combination 6 goals, Leek nil.

FOOTBALL NOTES
The Liverpool Daily Post- Saturday September 21, 1895
The result of the match at Burden Park, Bolton, between Everton and Bolton Wanderers, created a little surprise and a great deal of disappointment. The new ground when finished will be a well-appointed one, having running and bicycle tracks round the playing patch, and any amount of accommodation for the spectators. The ground on Saturday was on the heavy side, and the different employed by the respective combatants proved the sterling judgement of the Wanderers, who went in for long passing, and emerged from the fray crowned with victory. Everton adopted the short passing, and, to their evident discomfiture, they found this utterly out of place. There was nothing the choose between the teams during the first twenty minutes’ play, but at this point a lamentable accident occurred to Holt, who, when the Wanderers were attacking, endeavoured to head the ball away, but he collided with Wright, and was so badly injured about the head and face that he was carried off the field in an insensible condition. This accident disorganised the Everton team, and appeared to be the turning point in the game, for Martin and Cassidy quickly put on a couple of goals, while McInnes scored for Everton with a grand low shot. When the teams changed ends Holt came out again being greatly cheered for his pluck under distressing circumstances, and his reappearance enabled Milward, who had gone centre half, to again partner Chadwick. The play remained slow and unprofitable until a quarter of an hour from the finish, when Joyce scored from a corner, and with this further addition to the Wanderers’ lead the joy of the crowd knew no bounds. This proved to be the last point, the Wanderers winning by 3 goals to 1. The respective goalkeepers had a lot of work to do, and they did it well, each of them bringing off brilliant saves. Bell and McInnes made a very fine right wing, and the former had lot of work to do, and they did it well, each of them bringing off brilliant saves. Bell and McInnes made a very fine right wing, and the former had hard lines in not scoring on two or three occasions. Boyle and Stewart were generally on the spot when wanted, and Chadwick did a lot of work on his own account. It will be generally understood that Holt, after having the steam taken out by reason of his accident, could not do himself justice and Kelso, Adams, and Milward have been seen to better advantage. The Wanderers worked well together, and on the day’s play deserved their points.
Today’s teams
Everton v Blackburn Rovers at Goodison Park; kicked-off 4.
Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Adams, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Blackburn Rovers; Ogilvie, goal; Brandon and Murray, backs; Dewar, Anderson, and Cleghorn, half backs; Haydock, Whitehead, Turnbull, Killean and Chippendale, forwards.
Combination
Macclesfield v Everton, at Macclesfield

EVERTON 0 BLACKBURN ROVERS 2
SEPTEMBER 23 1895. THE Liverpool Mercury
Beautifully fine weather, tempered by an invigorating breeze, favoured the first of the League fixtures between Everton, and the Rovers at Goodison Park, as Saturday last, and as the visitors are always great favourites with Liverpool generally it was in keeping with old traditions that the ground should be well patronised. There were some 18,000 spectators present at the commencement of the game, and the numbers increased as the play progressed. Rovers had a special course of training for the event, and were represented by the strongest available team that the executive could command. While on the other hand further changes were made in the home ranks. Flewitt stood down for Hartley, and Williams who has recovered from his injury, again took his position on the outside right. There was some doubt as to weather Hillman would be at his post as he received a kick in the Bolton Wanderers match which left him rather lame, but he turned out all right, and at four o'clock the teams lined up as follows : - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Kelso, and Adams, backs, Boyle (captain), Holt, and Stewart, halfbacks, Williams, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Ogilvie goal, Brandon and Murray, backs, Dewar, Anderson, and Cleghorn, halfbacks, Haydock, Whitehead, Turnbull, Killean, and Chippendale, forwards. The Rovers lost the toss, and on Turnbull putting the ball in motion Killean and Chippendale at once got off and the latter swinging the ball across Whitehead shot in gradually, but had the misfortune to see the ball rebound from the Crossbar. The early attack, which resulted from most accurate movements, on the part of the forwards, at once proved that the Evertonians had a severe task on hand, especially so when a couple of minutes later Turnbull just failed to score by a few inches. Adams effected a slight relief, but no impression could be made upon the Rovers halfbacks line, and the left wing once again led on the attack. Kelso was penalised, and Turnbull did not take what appeared a fairly good chance. Eventually the home forwards were in possession, and the ball travelled across in short stages from Williams to Milward. Dewar was beaten, but there was no getting round Brandon, who covered his custodian most cleverly. Some tricky though not effective work by Haydock was the next item, and after Whitehead had failed to take up the running Stewart drove the ball on to Hartley who was unfortunately rulled offside. Meanwhile Dewar, Anderson, and Cleghorn had been doing excellent work, and took full advantage of the shortcoming of the Everton van. A free kick against the home side resulted in a long shot at Hillman who cleared well, but Anderson met the return, and with a well judged hard drive piloted the ball into the net after the game had been in progess but six minutes. Getting to work again, Hartley tested Ogilvie, but the shot lacked string, and following the clearance Cleghorn all but scored from a free kick against Bell. Kelso was doing good work, and a smart bit of play by Holt changed the venue to Ogilvie's charge and here Chadwick made a capital attempt to head the ball into the net. Then followed some pretty and effective play by Haydock and whitehead, between whom there was a perfect understanding, but in the final stage the latter was ruled offside. At length Stewart made an opening for Milward, who banged the ball in at a terrictic tae; but it happened to be drive straight at the goalkeeper, who cleaned, and then Brandon conceded a fruitless corner. At the other end Killean tested Hillman, who fisted out strongly, following which, Hartley, though surrounded by opponents, brought off a magnificent shot, which however, passed slightly wide of the post. During the next few minutes the Everton forwards had several openings, and the ball was put anywhere but between the uprights. A long pressure followed on the Rovers goal, which was brought to an end on Holt lifting the ball over the bar. Turnbull created quite a diversion in the centre, and eventually put Haydock in possession, who could certainly have scored, but for the close attentions of Adams, who, after, being beaten. Smartly recovered himself. A few minutes later every, one was expecting Chadwick to equalised as a good opening presented itself; but like the others he was a long way out of his reckoning, as the ball sailed high over the bar. On the right, Williams put in grand shot, which Brandon only partially met, and had the left been, well up a goal must have been scored. The interval was announced shortly afterwards, the Rovers leading by one goal to none. Everton got well away after the change of ends and Hartley had a shot at goal which, was just a trifle wide. Bell and Williams who were closely attended to by Murray, put in a lot of work, but so keen were the Rovers defenders in being on the man about to shoot that the final attempts appeared to be very amateurish. At last Chippendale got round Boyle and centred to Turnbull and as Kelso only partially checked the movement. Whitehead cleverly met the ball and drove it hard into the net. Hillman having no chance whatever with it. This second reverse happened ten minutes after the restart, and the ball had no sooner been put into play again than the diminutive inside right almost brought another disaster to Everton as he headed the ball slightly wide of the net. Following some sterling play by Stewart the home forwards got into their old stride, and was frequently dangerous. Hartley sent in a fine shot across the goal, which Williams only justed missed meeting, and in the next minutes Chadwick met with no better luck after getting round Brandon. Some little delay was caused owing to Holt and Killean coming into collision, and on getting to work again Hillman, who had ran out to have was fortunate in not being defeated for a third time as Chippendale had the goal, at his mercy, but shot terribly wide. After a fruitless attempt to get round, Murray and Brandon Turnbull gathered his line together and a very pretty movement brought the play to the Everton goal, where Kelso Adams and Hillman had a most anxious time. Some brilliant saves were effected, and it was not until Stewart had outwitted Haydock and whitehead, after both had been revailing shots, that the pressure was relieved. There was no further scoring though the remaining play was favorable to the Rovers, and Everton received their first defeat at home by 2 goals to nil.

MACCLESFIELD 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
September 23 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
Played at Macclesfield on Saturday. The visitors favoured by the elements, and though the ran on fairly even lines they scored before change of ends. After the interval the play a totally different turn, as the home side play up level, and afterwards took the lead, but on the Evertonians equalising, and the remained a draw of 2 goals each. The Everton combination found the Macclesfield team in first rate condition at home, and though they took the lead in the early portion of the play by a goal from Scholfield, and were somewhat fortunate in ultimately gaining a point.
Played 3 won 2, lost 0 draw 1, for 11 against 4 points 5

EVERTON REVIEW
September 23 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
Beautiful summer weather favoured Everton first meeting with the Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, and the games between these teams are always of an attractive description there was an exceptionally big crowd present at the commencement of the proceedings. The field had been very carefully prepared, and presented a perfect appearance the grass, which, in previous games was much too long and impeded the players having been cut and well rolled. From the kick off Blackburn Rovers were quickly down at the Everton goal and it early became evident that they meant to make matters for the home team. Their efforts were soon rewarded, for about six minutes from the start Hillman ran out to clear a shot, and before he could get back to his charge Anderson the Rovers centre half sent in a long hard drive, which took effect. Encouraged by this early success, the visitors played a magnificent game, but did not increase their lead up to halftime. After the interval, the team set to work in earnest fashion, but the Rovers excelled in the nicer points of play, and invariably had the best of the exchanges. By means of some smart play on the part of Chippendale, Turnbull and whitehead, the last named scored with a remarkably fine shot, which completely defeated Hillman, and indeed it is questionable if any custodian under similar conditions could have saved his charge. From the point up to the close of the game the Rovers held the upper hand, although there were occasions when the home team broke away, and appeared dangerous but they were met by such a superb defence that their onslaught brought little or no success, and when the whistle sounded they retired beaten by two goals to nil. It is a long time since Everton have been beaten pointless on their own ground and it was very unfortunate for them that they should meet the Rovers in such tip top form before they have properly got into their stride. The play of the home team on the whole was only fair, the back division, if anything being the weakest. This deficiency necessitated the halfback line paying especial attention to the defensive tactics, and they were consequently unable to aid their side as much as usual attacking. The forwards when they obtained possession put in some very fine touches of passing at times, but they were seldom properly backed up, and consequently could make out little impression on the stern defence that met them. Chadwick was not up to the standard of play, and was robbed of the ball a great deal often than usual. Hartley played a good game individually, but did not keep his wings well together and, as individually at the expense of combination cannot be depended upon to win matches, this point must command attention. The outside men, Milward and Williams were perhaps the best of the forwards, though the latter's shooting was erratic. The halfbacks put in a lot of work, and at times were very effective, but Holt is not yet in conditions, and a fast game like that of Saturday told more than a trifle on him. The backs were as already stated rather weak, for their kicking was neither strong nor clean, and they were not smart enough when the Rovers got within shooting range to prevent them getting in their shots. Hillman brought off many fine saves, but he was very lame, and it is no doubt due to this that the first goal was scored, as he was unable to get back to his charge quickly enough. The team were also on this account deprived of the benefit of his hugh kicks, which when the defence is pressed, are often of such sterling value. Too high praise cannot be bestowed on the Rovers, for the fine display. They were in better condition, more resourceful, and withal more accurate man to man than their opponents and the special training that they had undergone last week for this particular match has thus served them well. Their forwards were very smart and tricky, and a special word is due to Turnbull, the centre, for the very capable way in which, he kept his wings employed. In their onslaught on the Everton goal they were always dangerous and they had the satisfaction of knowing that a thoroughly efficient trio of halfbacks backed them up. The full backs Brandon and Murray, played a strong, and safe game, and very rarely indeed did they allow the home forwards to get within dangerous shooting distance. Ogilvie the goalkeeper, had a very little to do but when he was called upon there was no lack of resource displayed. The result of the game came as a big disappointing to Everton's supporters, for they are not accustomed to see their team worsted at all points of play, but if the wish to see their team come out successfully was not realised, they had the satisfaction of witnessing high class football that has really, if ever been excelled.

A GRAND GAME AT MACCLESFIELD
The Athletic News-Monday, September 23, 1895
The Combination fixture with Everton Reserve was looked upon by Macclesfield people as one of the tit-bits of the season, and so it proved. Everton were soon on the job, and opened the scoring after five minutes’ play. In no way disheartened, the “silk lads,” went pluckily to the work, and although they were many times within the proverbial ace of scoring they could not get through, and at half-time were in the minority by a single goal. The second half opened lively enough, the Macclesfield team showing up wonderfully well. By unflagging determination, which was greatly appreciated by the thousands of persons who surrounded the enclosure, the “silk” team managed to obtain a lead of two goals to one, and this result was looked upon as a certainty, but it was not to be. A long-dropping shot was put in by one of the Everton forwards, and Leather misjudged it. Result, scores equal. It was a great disappointment but apart from this, the whole of the Macclesfield team are to be congratulated on the result against such doughty opponents.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT NOTES
The Athletic News-Monday, September 23, 1895
What is wrong with Everton is the question on everybody’s lips at present. That a team which includes such stars as Hillman in goal, and others equally prominent in the football world in all positions, should give such exhibitions as was seen at Bolton, and if anything emphasised before their own supporters on Saturday, suggests that there is something wrong with the works. It has long been felt that there is not that sympathetic feeling existing between the directors and players that ought to be if satisfactory results are to be obtained; and I believe the present directors recognise this, and are desirous that a better understanding should be arrived at. Football players are difficult to handle, for, you may say what you like about them being servants, you must show some thought in managing them. Discipline is all right in its way, but that happy medium which is essential does not appear so easy of attainment at Everton. On Saturday, several directors took council with the players in the dressing-room before the match, and Mr. Clayton came on to the field to gave final instructions. Friendly talk is a step in the right direction.

EVERTON BEATEN AT HOME
The Athletic News- Monday, September 23, 1895
By the Loiterer
Glorious weather, with the prospect of an exciting match, drew close upon 20,000 to Goodison Park, and those who ventured were rewarded by witnessing a fine game, though the result to the majority present must have been disappointing. To judge from the noise they made, there must have been a numerous following of the Rovers, who wore a confident air as they came from the station, and they made no secret of the fact that their pets would win. The ground was in splendid order, and the teams were as follow;- Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Adams, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick and Milward, forwards. Blackburn Rovers;- Ogilvie, goal; Brandon and Murray, backs; Dewar, Anderson, and Cleghorn, half backs; Haydock, Whitehead, Turnbull, Killean, and Chippendale, forwards. Referee; Mr. Strawson. The Rovers started off with rare dash, and straightaway the home goal had a narrow escape, for there was no stopping them, and Whitehead banged the ball in, only to hit the bar. Thus early it was evident the Rovers meant business, for their forwards were playing a taking game and half backs were so energetic as to keep then well employed, and between the lot there seemed to be a good understanding. The other side appeared to be at sixes and sevens, for even Hillman was not happy as he ran out to clear a free kick, and before he got back Anderson shot in from a distance and scored. The home defence continued to be harassed by the effective work of the Rovers’ forwards, but they managed to keep the scoring down. Yet the Rovers were playing a much superior game all round, and in one or two attacks by the home forwards the Rovers’ halves were cleverly too good for them, and consequently the attacks lost much of their sting; Milward, however, out in a grand shot, which Ogilvie cleverly saved. Matters continued to be a trifle sultry at the other end, for Haydock got the better of Adams, and Whitehead finished up with a rasping shot, but was ruled off-side. Killean then put a good one in. by this time the Everton men had steadied down, and they had much more of the play, Bell heading in to Ogilvie, and both Hartley and Milward making good attempts, in each case the shots being swift and only just wide of the mark. These items gave encouragement to the home supporters, but still the Rovers could always claim advantage in the exchanges. They were much quicker on the ball and more methodical in their movements, and they were frequently dangerous Hillman bringing off some clever saves right under the bar, and, just on the interval, clearing desperately out of a scrummage. On resuming Everton made a much better show, and had the best of the play for some time, Hartley early on making a good attempt to drew level. It was therefore, disheartening after doing all the pressing to find Killean and Chippendale in possession, and, Kelso only partially stopping them, the ball went to Whitehead, the little ‘un making the most of a favourable opportunity, and the Rovers were two goals in hand. This will give me readers some idea of the effective play of the visitors, for although the play was fairly divided, on the whole the combination of the Rovers was far ahead of that of the home team; in fact, a very little was shown by the losers, for the opposing halves continued to have the best of the argument. Even when attacking the Rovers’ goal, the rough and tumble methods adopted contrasted unfavourably with the steady play of Brandon and Murray, who invariably came out of the ordeal all right, and all through the piece the Rovers were continually scoring points- on play- and in the end Everton were badly beaten, though the score- two goals to none- is not large. I have occasionally seen Everton under a cloud, but have never seen them so completely overshadowed before. At the same time I may say I have never seen the Rovers in such good working order before. They were winners at the start, for there was something in their movements which inspired one with confidence. They are a well-balanced team, and seemed trained to a nicety. Their quickly passing was too much for the defence and the methodical way they plodded on always showed them to advantage. The forward play was simply perfect, and I don’t that one shone above another. Killean now and again caused a little friction in the running by a clumsy bit of play, but it was nothing to speak of, and the blemish was quickly wiped out. They not only put in clever work, but did so with am earnestness of purpose which completely upset the half-backs, and then they were down on the backs, and neither Kelso nor Adams was at home in dealing with their attacks. In Dewar, Anderson and Cleghorn the Rovers have a capable trio of half-backs who frequently scored both in defence and attack. Their forwards had nothing to complain of, for the placing of the ball was about as correct as could be desired, and in defence their play was as effective as could be wished. It is not so difficult to discriminate in this line as in the forwards for Anderson was an easy first in an exceptional line of half-backs. He was always on the job, and his shots at goal were very troublesome. The play of Brandon and Murray was just as consistent as the others. Even under pressure they played a steady game, and it was seldom they resorted to any haphazard work; in fact, the cool way they behaved in front of goal with the Everton forwards bouncing about was a great factor in the success of the team. Their kicking, too was treat. Ogilvie had little to do, but he cleared several times in a clever manner. The Everton men suffered greatly in comparison. The forwards lacked dash and were too slow. As a result whatever combination was attempted was soon broken up, and never during the afternoon did they get into anything like working order. There was no system in their work, and the attacks that they made on the Rovers, goal were due more to a flesh by one or the other then to any concerted action. As is usually the case, they were desperately in earnest in these buts, and though they put in several good shots during the afternoon, as a rule they lost their heads, and against two such backs this style of play was ineffective. The efforts of the half backs were not what we expect from players like Boyle, Holt, and Stewart. They were very uncertain, and the way they dallied with the ball was exasperating, for the Rovers’ forwards often robbed them, and turned what ought to haver been a forward movement into defensive play. Adams and Kelso had a tough job on hand, and neither got through the work with credit. What with theerratic play of forwards and loose work by the halves, the Rovers’ forwards often came down on them in an unexpected manner, and they were often in difficulties and left single-handed to get out of them. Still, they did not improve the bugling of the others, and, further behind, Hillman did lots of risky things. Some people would perhaps blame Hillman for the first goal, but it is hard to say how he would have gone on if he had kept his place, and the second goal he had no chance with. But I did not care about the tactics he adopted. He was frequently guilty of running out, and on other occasions played to the gallery. The two goals simply earn two points for the Rovers, but the general run of the play was a complete rout of the Everton men.

EVERTON v.  BLACKBURN ROVERS
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 23, 1895
Glorious weather favoured the visit of Blackburn to Goodison Park. Five minutes before the time announced for proceedings to commence the Rovers put in an appearance to the accompaniment of a ringing cheer, which was renewed with redoubted vigour when a moment later Boyle led his men on to the arena. The home captain won the toss, and elected to play the wind and sun favouring him, Turnbull started in the presence of 18,000. Blackburn were first to make progress, Anderson serving his forwards well, and before the game had been in progress many seconds Whitehead tested Hillman with a beauty, which the Everton custodian fisted splendidly away. The pressure was momentarily relieved, but the Rovers were back again in a trice, and Haydock had another futile shot. A foul against Everton once more let the Rovers have a look in, but a moment later Milward raced away with the ball, and a brilliant spell of passing by the Everton front rank ensued. This move was at length checked by Cleghorn and Murray, and the next minute the Rovers had rushed back again, Whitehead finishing up with a fine shot. Tricky play by Boyle and Holt frustrated the well-intended efforts of the visitors, who were very persistent in their efforts. Kelso administered a clever check when Chippendale was getting within shooting distance, and then the ball was placed forward, Hartley being pulled up for offside when he had a splendid opportunity, Brandon placed a free kick right in the goal, which Hillman fisted away, but Anderson met the return and let fly with all the force he was capable of which resulted in Hillman being beaten seven minutes from the starting. Imbued with their early success the Rovers again made a determined effort, but their attempts were frustrated, and Everton had a turn of pressure, Hartley sending in a terrific shot which Ogilvie easily negotiated. The Rovers evidently meant business and went about their work with a thoroughness which spoilt danger, several long swift shots being both well directed and difficult to negotiate. Relief at length came to the home men, the forwards making a rapid movement up the field. A free kick to the benefit of Everton within the visitors’ quarter line looked ominous for the Rovers, but the ball was smartly cleared away, and Chippendale sent it out of play. The Evertonians swarmed up again, and forced a corner, which was nicely placed in front. Chadwick being unfortunate when he headed the ball outside. The Rovers were quickly at work in the right wing. Haydock running slick away and deceiving Adams and then passing to Whitehead, who was adjudged offside, but not before he had got in his shot, which Hillman dealt with cleverly. The free kick landed the leather in  midfield, where the respective halves had a lot of work provided for them. Holt was twice beaten but then, much to the delight of the crowd, recovered possession, which be utilised much to the advantage of his side. nothing, however, came of his efforts, as the defence of Murray and Brandon was magnificent, Hillman was again tested, and some amusement was created by Turnbull endeavouring to charge the burly custodian as he was repelling the attack. A move was soon afterwards made to the other end, where Milward sent in a real teaser to Ogilvie who cleared cleverly, Everton were again pressed, to relieve which Adams kicked over the line, much to the apparent disgust of Hillman. The subsequent corner availed nothing, as after Turnbull had shot, Haydock sent over the line. Immediately after the kick out, Dewar was penalised for obstructing Chadwick and subsequently the Rovers goal was subjected to a severe bombardment. Williams raided into goal, Brandon footing the ball away grandly. Still keeping up the attack, the Everton forwards swarmed round the Rovers’ goal, and at length Hartley got the ball at his toss and experienced hard lines with a shot which was sent from amidst a crowd of his opponents, the leather just missing the desired mark. Stewart sent the ball up the field once more and Milward raced for possession. Brandon rushing forward to check. The two players came into collision, with the result that the burly Blackburn back was thrown over Milward’s shoulder, amid a roar of laughter from the crowd. The goal kick was responded to by Dewar, and a further attack was made by the Rovers, and after some fine play in front of Hillman, the ball sent over. The game centred fast and exciting, but Blackburn had much the best of the play, and the home goal was for some time in jeopardy. At length relief came, and Hartley darted off at full speed, but his effort was spoiled by a faulty pass, and Ogilvie had no difficulty in getting the ball away. The forwards falling in their repeated attempts to lower the visitors’ colours. Holt made an effort but, like the rest, this proved abortive. A foul against Haydock enabled Milward to send in one of his express centres, but this was quickly flashed away by Anderson and then the Rovers advanced in attacking order. Another informality rendered this attempt null. Adams taking the free kick, and Chadwick heading over the crossbar. At the other and Whitehead shot through after the whistle had sounded for offside, but the Rovers were soon back again, and nearly scored from a free kick. Hartley then made a dashing run, and the homesters commenced to press severely. Murray gave a corner, but this was accounted for to the satisfaction of the Blackburn division. Then Boyle served up prettily, and Milward came into possession, and shot with force, but he was again unlucky, the leather going over the crossbar. Everton now kept up a perfect fusillade on the visitors’ goal, but their passes were ill-timed and irregular, and they thus gave every opportunity to the Rovers backs to clear. One of the best attempts was by Williams and he certainly had hard ,lines. Soon the Rovers were again dangerous Adams coming out with flying colours, and defending splendidly. Everton now seemed determined, and went away at full speed. Williams sending in a hot one, and Brandon missing his kick, Milward had a grand opening, but unfortunately he overran the ball, which went over the line. As half time drew nigh the Rovers redoubled their efforts, and there was a terrific struggle in front of the Everton goal, which had a very narrow escape. Eventually the ball was thrown up, and the homesters were quickly in front of Ogilvie, but the Rovers kept packing their goal to such an extent that it was next to an impossibility to get the ball through. Half-time arrived shortly afterwards, the Rovers leading by 1 goal to nil. When the teams changed ends there were about 25,000 people on the ground. Play for a while was rather tame, Hartley missing twice, and the Everton goal being several times in danger. A long shot from Anderson nearly took effect and then Williams missed a fine opening at the other end. Holt was faulty at the centre, and Turnbull dribbled away and then passed to Whitehead, who beat Hillman with a very fast shot. For a while, the Rovers had matters pretty much their own way, Hartley at length breaking the monotony by a fine run and splendid shot which brought Ogilvie to a devotional attitude and at the other end Chippendale nearly beat Hillman. Play was located at midfield for some time after this, following which Whitehead made a tricky run, and when he looked almost certain to score Stewart snicked in and robbed him. Everton made strenuous efforts to retrieve their fallen fortunes, and by dint of real hard work got a footing in the Rovers’ stronghold, the defence of the visitors being severely taxed. The ball, however, could not be driven into the net, though Milward on one occasion had particularly hard lines. Taken on the whole, however, the play of the home team was decidedly disappointing. A great assault, headed the Bell, with Williams and Hartley in close attendance, was scarcely broken up by Murray, and on the Evertonians again attacking there was an exciting bully in goal, the Rovers being awarded a free kick owing to Ogilvie being unfairly charged. The Rovers dashed to the other end, Chippendale rendering splendid service. Hillman left his charge, and Chippendale shot, but Kelso dashed across the goal mouth, and saved at the expense of a corner, which proved abortive. In then last five minutes the game was almost exclusively confined to the Everton half, the home men making spasmodic efforts to break away. In the last-minute Kelso was injured by colliding with Chippendale, and then the whistle blew with the score- Rovers 2, goals, Everton nil. Teams;- Everton; Hillman, goal; Kelso and Adams, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Bell, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Blackburn Rovers; Ogilvie, goal; Brandon and Murray, backs; Dewar, Anderson, and Cleghorn, half-backs; Haydock, Whitehead, Turnbull, Killean, and Chippendale, forwards.

COMBINATION
Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, August 23, 1895
MACCLESFIELD v.  EVERTON COMBINATION
The first Combination fixture between these teams was played at Macclesfield. Everton won the toss, and after a short attack succeeded in bringing down the citadel. Macclesfield then broke away and forced a resultless corner. The visitors changed the attack, but Gaskill as back was fine. Towards the end of the half the Silk Lads made strenuous, though useless efforts. Half-time score;- Everton 1 goal, Macclesfield nil. The home players had the best of the second half, a good game ending in a draw-2 goals each.

GLASGOW RANGERS 3 EVERTON 1
September 27 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team paid their usual visit to Ibrox Park, Glasgow, yesterday, the great holiday in Glasgow. The team travelled overnight to their destination, and had a short drive round previous to the match taking place. So as the fixture should not dash with Celtic and Sunderland, the kick off was timed for the unusual hour of half past twelve. The weather was of a more charming characters, but being midday and in spite of a rather nice breeze the astmoshere was much too warm for football. The Everton team were the first appear, and the sides lined up in the followings order: - Everton: - Hillman, goal, McDonald, and Storrier, backs, Stewart, Meiklejohn, and Boyle (captain), halfbacks, Latta, Mcinnes, Hartley, Flewitt, and Milward, forwards, Glasgow Rangers: - Yulle, goals, Drummend, (captain) and Crawford, half, Marshall, Burns, and Gibson, halfbacks, Boyd, Muir, McEwan, McCreadie, and Stewart, halfbaccks, forwards. Drummond won the toss, and of course took advantage of the wind, which was blowing from goal to goal; but owing to the nonappearance of two of the home team a considerable delay occurred. Upon Hartley starting, Boyd and Muir ran down the ball, and Hillman was compelled to run out to save. Directly following Stewart put in a long centre, which however, went astray. After this Everton came away with some capital forward work, and both Hartley and Flewitt had nice opportunities of scoring, but failed to do so. A hugh kick by Storrier put Everton again in possession, and after Latta, and McInne had carried the play well into the ememy's quarters the famous right winger sent wide of the desired direction. A foul off Stewart, was next item, rather close into the visitors goalmouth, but nothing came of it, and upon Flewitt, Hartley, and McInnes attempting to break away Burns put in a lot of grand work, both with his head and feet, and deservedly cheered. The Bulk of the play was confirmed to oneside of the field, the heavy kicking of Drummond and Crawford allowing to breeze to have great effect upon the leather, while the general play at the period was not of a very exciting nature. A brilliant rush by Hartley, who received from Storrier, earned a corner, but the ball was put in just a shade too high for the Everton middleman to reach it. Offside was effectual called against McEwan, who led up stinging attacks upon Hillman's charge, and after two corners kicks had fallen to the share of the Rangers. Burns removed all immediate danger by misdirecting wide of the goal. Following an attack by the visitors, McDonald let Boyd and Muir in, but without result. For a spell Everton had to act entirely on the defensive, Marshall, Burns, and Gibson (the Rangers halves) being in magnificent form, and as the wind up of a pretty sequence of passes by Stewart and McCreadidy the latter shot hard at Hillman, at short range, but the Evertonian dealt with the effort in capital style, as he did with several others which, rained in upon him in rapid succession from McEwan, Boyd, and Stewart. Weak passing by Flewitt spoiled a combined forward movement and upon half time being called the score sheet had not been requisitioned. Upon resuming after a lengthily interval, the Everton forwards shaped in much improved style, and first Latta and then Hartley made two splendid attempts, following up by Latta beaten Yullie the next moment. Everton now had slightly the better of the argument, and Hartley, when given a beautiful opening, drove high over the bar, at length Rangers forwards well supported by their halves, formulated a strong attack upon Hillman, and a Penalty kick was awarded against one of the Everton defence for tripping McEwan and Gibson scored at the second attempt. Clever work by Latta and McInnes as though another point for Everton was likely to secure but Crawford and Drummond defended gallantly, and Yulle was lucky in clearing. At last the rather monotonous character of the play became changed, and Muir introduced greater vigour and variety, with the result that McCreadie added a second point after Hillman had fisted out an attempt. In a trice an exhibitions of had judgements by McDonald deceived the Everton custodian and McEwan notched the third point, a simple affair altogether. The remaining stages of the game were distinctly in favour of Everton, who marred the performance by wretched shooting, whilst glaring infringement of the offside rule by the homesters were allowed to go unnoticed by the referee. Result Glasgow Rangers 3 goals Everton 1.

GLASGOW RANGERS v  EVERTON
The Liverpool Daily Post- Friday, September 27, 1895
The weather at Glasgow yesterday was really too fine for football, the sun shinning brilliantly, and quite a summer heat prevailing. Fortunately, a nice breeze tempered the hot effect of the old Sol, and taking the surrounding altogether a more enjoyable day for recreation could not possibly have been ordained. There was a splendid crowd at Ibrox Park, the day being a holiday in Glasgow. The Rangers were fully represented, the teams being as follows;- Rangers;- Miller, goal; Drummond and Crawford, backs; Marshall, Burns, and Gibson, half-backs; Boyd, McEwan, MaCreadie, Stewart, and Muir, forwards. Everton; Hillman, goal; Macdonald, and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Meiklejohn, and Stewart, half-backs; Latta, McInnes, Hartley, Flewitt, and Milward, forwards. Everton kicked off with a blazing sun in their faces, and from the start Hillman was troubled, but the Evertonians cleared nicely, and a run up centre by the visitors soon brought out the home defence. For the first ten minutes the ball dodged about the half-line, and then Muir took a long flying kick at the Everton goal, but the ball went over. The ground played lively, and the men really had little control over the ball. Muir again ran down on the home right, Storrier was passed, and Stewart fouled Marshall but the free kick passed off harmlessly. Milward was the instigator of an attack on Miller’s charge, but the play was very slow, and there had not been a really exciting incident for the thirty minutes’ play which had expired, the forwards on both sides having the play between them, McInnes and Hartley put in a nice move, but the finishing touch went wide of the upright, the ball being too lively for Hartley to get his head to work effectually and from the kick out the Rangers’ left went away, Storrier intervening successfully. The Rangers’ centre then made a fine run down the middle of the field, and the visitors defence met with disapprobation consequent upon Macdonald kicking out- another instance of the lively nature of the ball. McInnes and Boyle got away on the right, but the leather badly as the inside right tried his shot, and the ball leapt nicely on to Drummond’s toe, and Storrier tried to ease the pressure on the Everton line. Soon after the Rangers’ forwards again bore down on the visitors, and Hillman had to oppose a nice shot from MaCreadie, the Everton custodian showing some of his quality, which was generously applauded by the spectators. The Rangers again attacked on the same wing, and Hillman once more responded. Still the Rangers, aided by the wind, attacked out up to the interval both goals remained intact, and the teams crossed over without any score having been made. On resuming Everton had a good breeze at their back, and, led off by Stewart, the visiting left wing at once became aggressive. Miller was safe for a time and fisted and headed successfully. Before the tension was relieved Latta rushed across to the centre of the goal, and within two minutes from the resumption Everton opened the score. The Rangers reopened and took the kick-off splendidly to the front of Hillman, Stewart fearlessly rushed in and cleared, and saved a goal, but immediately the Everton side was penalised within the ten yards line for Meiklejohn presumably tripping. Gibson took the kick, and although Hillman, who was very lame, and had just been heavily charged, cleared the kick, Gibson met the return and put through and within five more minutes the Rangers put on a couple more goals, the third one being a very soft affair. Hillman got rid of the ball, by Meiklejohn somehow put it back again, and Hillman in trying to effect a second save turned completely over. This play was just to the liking of the spectators, who loudly cheered the homesters. The Evertonians, immediately following those reverses, had several chances of responding, but the front line made a wretched attack, and shots often went astray. On the other hand the Rangers, whenever they became aggressive, were most perfect in their shooting and although they were not particular about lying offside, their kicking gave Hillman a lot of anxiety, and he kept out some grand shies. Everton undoubtedly had the worst of the second half, and lost a good match by 3 goals to 1.

RANGERS v.  EVERTON
The Glasgow Evening Post, Friday, September 27, 1895
RANGERS 3, EVERTON 1
According to custom Rangers celebrated the autumn holiday by playing Everton at Ibrox. Two years ago Rangers won by 2 goals 1, but last year Everton turned the tables and beat the Ibrox team by 4 goals to 1. The day was rather warm for football, but a south-westerly breeze tempered the sun’s rays. About 7,000 were present when the following teams lined up ten minutes late;- Everton; Hillman, McDonald, Storrier, R. Boyle, Meiklejohn, McInnes, Hartley, Flewitt, and Milward. Rangers;- Yullie, Crawford, Drummond, Marshall, Burns, Gibson, Stewart, H. McCreadie, McGowan, D. Muir, and Boyd. Referee J. Marshall. Rangers won the toss and took advantage of the breeze, and Everton had both sun and wind to face. Rangers pressed to begin with, but Hillman cleared with little difficulty, and Latta and McInnes transferred play to Yullie’s end. A scrimmage in front of goal seemed likely to end fatally for the Rangerswhen Drummond intervened and kicked into touch at midfield. Some rare rallies in Everton’s territory ensued, but the defence proved too good for the attack, and Latta and McInnes again got off. Hartley had the ball nicely placed to him, but sent it rather far forward and though Crawford spooned his kick a foul let Rangers work clear. In spite of the wind, Everton began to have the best of matters, and had the first success of the day- a fruitless corner. Then the Rangers steadied themselves, and a high sailing shot from McGowan just missed, and landed on the top of the net. From the kick-off Rangers were back immediately, only to see Boyle work clear, and Flewitt, Milward and Hartley seemed clear away when Gibson, with a wonderful overhead kick, gave Rangers another look in/ McDonald sent them back, however, but a foul stopped Everton and Rangers’ left made good the ground lost, and McGowan following up a shot by Stewart, who got the final pass, made a plucky attempt to bustle the sturdy Hillman into the net. Rangers pressed till the finish of the half, but they were never really dangerous till just before the whistle blew, when a brilliant piece of defence kept them from scoring. Half-time -no scoring. With the wind Everton scored in two minutes, Latta beating Yullie. This put Rangers on their mettle, and a grand run by McGowan and Muir again brought Hillman’s hand-ball into prominences. His cleverness in that respect failed to save his charge when a penalty kick had been awarded for a trip by Storrier, and Gibson put the teams level. Having found the way Rangers kept pegging away and Boyd put their team on the lead. McGowan shortly after scored a third, and kept Everton on the defence.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 2 EVERTON 3
September 30 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team journeyed to Wolverhampton on Saturday to engage with the Wolves in the initial League fixture of the season. the day was gloriously fine, and as a good exposition of the game has always been the rule when Everton have visited the Wanderers, there was a capital attendance on the Molineux Ground long before the time for commencing play. When the season faced as follows there would be quite 12,000 spectators present: - Everton: - Hillman, goal, Parry and Adams, backs, Boyle (captain), Holt, and Stewart, halfbacks, Williams, mCinnes, Hartley, Cgadwick, and Milward, forwards. Wanderers: - Rose, goal, Baugh, and Dunn, backs, Nurse, Malpass and Owen halfbacks Wykes, Hendersson, Beats, Wood, and griffins, forwards . Everton won the toss, and on Betts setting the ball in motion, Chadwick at once made the running for Milward, and following a couple of hugh throwns from the touch line by Stewart, a raid was made on the Wolves defences when Baugh and Nurse put in a lot of work. Henderson eventually racing off, and being only pulled up by Parry when dangerous near goal. Holt had the better of beats in a race for possession, and placing the ball nicely to Hartley the latter rushed between Baugh and Malpass Williams racing to the centre with a clear course in front put he unfortunately kicked high over the bar. Again Beats led on his men and patted nicely to Wykes who in turn passed to Henderson, and Hillman was tested with a fairly hot shot, but fisted away all right, and minute later the ball was bobbing about Rose's charge. Baugh defended well, and after Nurse had put his wing in possession the whole of the Wolves line put in some grand passing touches that fairly pulverlised the Everton defendce. Following one of these raids Wood fastened on the ball and banged it into the net after nine minutes play. Getting to work again the home forwards ably fed by their halves again swarmed round Hillman's charge. A long punt Parry cleared the danger, and McInnes and Williams took up the running, only to be confronted by Dunn, who was ever ready, when danger threatened. A little later Stewart placed the ball nicely to Hartley, who in turn sent onto the right, and it was only by a matter of inches that the home goalkeeper was not defeated. After a smart spurt by Beats, Henderson, was penalised, and on Parry taking the kick, the ball was driven accurately towards the net, and after bobbling about for some seconds Baugh put an end to the progess by a hugh kick, which transferred the play to the other end. A pretty bit of combination between Hartley, Chadwick and Milward resulted in the last named swinging the ball across to McInnes who put it wide. Wolverhampton had a goal disallowed for off side, however a minute later Wyles had the Everton goal at his mercy, but made a very poor attempt and after Beats had also finished badly the same player got clean away from the goalkick, and defeated Hillman with a terrific shot. Nothing further was done up to the charge of ends, when Everton were two goals in arrear. Immediately on restarting there was a noticeable alteration in the method of the visitors. Having had a surfeit of short passing in the first half, which was not attended with success, they adopted the swinging across from wing to wing style of play, and, generally speaking they had much the better of their opponents in the coming play. Milward and Chadwick were very often effective in their play and after the latter had sent in a stringing shot, which Dunn headed out Milward fastened on the ball and sent in a stringing cross shot which, took effect eight minutes after the restart. This success fairly encourage the Evertonians, who infused such grit into their play that they appeared certain whenas, and when after the Wolves had visited and found Hillman in good settle, they came again and scored by McInnes from a free kick well placed by Parry, there appeared to be only one team in it. Baugh, Nurse, Beats, and wood worked hard to Check the disaster that had set in, and when there were prospects of a drawn game looming, Chadwick tried his luck, and but for the smart work or Rose in getting up to the corner it would undoubtedly have taken effect. However, the save was but a partial one, and as Hartley was on the look out for an opening he found his opportunity and headed the ball into the net, thus giving his side the lead. The Wolves now played up with frantic determination, and were often within an ace of equalising. Towards the finish Griffin put the ball into the net, but was ruled offside, and as nothing further was done Everton won a hard uphill game by 3 goals to 2.

EVERTON RESERVES 8 WREXHAM 0
September 30 1895. The Liverpool mercury
This combination match took place at Goodison Park, before a good crowd. Everton were powerfully represented, Everton winning at easy game by 8 goals to nil. Flewiit (3), Chadwick (2), Hill, Scholfield scoring for Everton . Everton: - Hiles, goals, McDonald, and Storrier, backs, Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Elliott, halfbacks, Reay, Hill, Chadwick (j), Hewitt and Scholfield, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 30 1895. The Liverpool Mercury
The scottish journay to Glasgow was not as successful at the Everton well wishes, would have liked it to be with the idea of giving a trial to scene of the younger blood, practically half a reserve team pitted, against the Rangers, who, singularly to state, also adopted the same fashion but the experiment; did not turn out anything like the success saticapted. McDonald opened well, but failed at the pinch. Storrier proved very adept at stopping the men and clearing the ball, but thew manner in which, it was performed does not recommend itself to a connessssant. Meiklejohn in the centre was never bad, and at the same time never brilliant. He is a plodder pure and simply. Flewitt was perhaps the poorest of the forwards, bit his judgements and conditions being at fault. Milward and he did not combine at all, so that the bulk of the work was upon Hartley, McInnes and Latta. Perhaps the feature of the play was the wretched and terribly aggravating shooting form of the visitors. As a matter of fact they had more chances than the home team, some of which were right under the bar, but shoot the leather into the net they could not. The play altogether, no doubt swing to the conditions under which it was played (midday), was of the as you please character and therefore very uninteresting. Several of the Rangers recruits especially the halves show good form and capacities.
The Everton team by their truly magnificent victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday last have fully restored a confidence among their supporters which, it must be confessed had been of late on the wane and those pessimistic jeremiads who have been releasing the fortunate of the Blues to the lowest in the League tournament must have received a rude shook when the news reached them on Saturday evening. The choice of team was a difficult task for the executive to enter upon and when the services of such men as Kelso and Bell had to be dispensed with the situation to an ordinary observer it must be confessed, was not a particular brought one, especially as the team had to cope with opponents who have had been the course of several fluctuations in the fortune of the game that have happened in quarters where least experted. As an evidence of the support that is accordingly a winning team, the Molyneux ground was well patronished long before the advertised commencement of operations and at the kick off there would be quite 12,000 spectators round the well appointioned enclosure. The Wolves were very strongly represented, and the way they set about their work was sufficient quarantee to inspire confidence in even the most lukewarm supporter of the club. The Wolves forwards went about their work in the old North End style, and when they once got under weigh it was no light task to put the check upon them. The wings were kept employed, and it can safely be stated that twice out of three times they were in possession, and moreover dangerous. On the other hand, the Everton forwards were also adopting similar short passing tactics with but only a medium of Success, for had it been the sole task of the Wolves halves to lay close up, and hang like leeches to the Everton van, disparaging altogether the fact of their paying ant attention to their front line, they could not have preformed their mission to a greater degree of nicety. The game had been ten minutes in progess when the Everton custodian was defeated by Woods after a heavy fusillade on his charge; but the shot was so well judged and moreover along the ground at such extraordinary speed, that it is highly improbable that any goalkeeper could have attended to it successfully. This point gave the Wolves additional confidence, and they for the next quarter of an hour, simply swarmed round the Everton defenders, who were, however, alive to all executions, and it was only by consummate tact and skill that they kept their opponents from scoring on more than one occasion. After some very clever saves by Hillman a real beauty by the Wolves centre, and the chance of Everton at the interval were gloomy in the extreme. It was patent to any keen observer that the Wolves were quite capable, and well ashooled in the Everton style of attack, and if there was to be any possible chance of the Evertonians averting defeat it must result from a complete change of method. The situation was thoroughly grasped by the Everton skipper, and his confreres, and instead of the short passing, with opposing halfbacks literally lying on top of them, as was the case in the first half, they adopted long passing tactics, which resulted in drawing away both the first and second line of defence and eventually in gaining the victory. The success of Everton accured simply from a matter of generalship superior to that of the Wolves, and Saturday's display proved conclusively that the team although at one period of the game almost hopelessly beaten, which can change it tactics to the perplexity of its opponents will invariably come out strongly at the finish. It was quite refreshing to see the old time methods once again brought into play, and the three goals which, gave Everton the victory were like those against Hillman, altogether out of the reach of the custodian. Milward was the first to score, and it is questionable whether he ever piloted a ball more skillfully out of a goalkeeper's reach, although at a fair distance, and handicapped by an injured foot, McInnes obtained the second under the most unlooked conditions. There were two outside chance for scoring when he got possession close to the goalmouth, i.e, either to trust to driving the ball between a host of legs into the net or to attempt to tip the ball over the heads of halves and backs who defty blocked the goal. He chose the latter course, and it glided from the under portion of the crossbar into the rigging. Towards the close Chadwick had a long drive at Rose, and almost succeeded, with a stringing shot which, appeared to be out of the reach of Rose, but he partially saved it, only to see Hartley safely head it out of his reach. So much for the play, and now to the players. To commence with the victorious team, Hillman in goal despite the injury to his leg, mer met all exactions in good fashion, and the shots that defeated him were too adroitly placed, and sent in with such terrific force, for any goalkeeper to negotiate. Adams had a tough wing against him, and on the whole, came out remarkably well, some of his tackling of the Wolves as they steadied for shooting being exceptionally smart. Parry was some little time getting into his stride, and though he was occasionally beaten in the open, he was brimful of resource, when close in goal, and his judgement in placing the ball from a free kick was often most serviceable to his side. In the first portion of the game the display of the halfbacks was below the average, but following on the change of ends, whatever may have been their shortcoming at the outset, they more than made amends in the second period. Stewart worked hard and well and his hugh throwing in from touch was a very effective factor to the succcess of the team when near goal while Holt and Boyle especially in the closing stages, were more than a match for the Wolves forwards . Milward and Chadwick played a great game, and through Hartley lost a few chances early on, he justified his inclusion when the open game was resorted to. McInnes played a vastly improved game, and with Williams completed a strong line of attack. The Wolves forwards were too conservative in their style of play. As did Everton at the outset, they adopted the short passing line of action, at which they gave their opponents points, but they were not sufficiently astute to change their methods when they found fortune against them until there were a goal behind. Beats played a very fine centre forward game and with Wood got through a vast amount of work. While Griffin and Wyles, though the latter appealed to be somewhat indisposed, were not short of resources at critical moments. Nurse played effective left halfbacks game as also did Malpass in the centre and though Owen often contributed a good share, his work was marred by the rather vigorous methods he at time adopted. Baugh and Dunn, the former especially was magnificent defenders, and nothing short of the sudden change of tactics of the Evertonians would have brought about their downfall. Rose had little to do in the first half but in the second he was often called on, and did his work well. At the close of the proceedings a most disgraceful scene took place. The referee had occasion to rule the Wanderers left offside on putting the ball into the net, when close on time, and several times during the game his decisions were not accepted in a true sportsmanlike spirit. Immediately after the whistle blew a surging crowd bore down on Mr.Armitts end, but for the prompt assistance of police and officials series results have happened. Eventually the referee sought refuge in the pressbox, but it was not until some considerable time had elapsed that the crowd was cleared from the ground.

EVERTON SNATCH A VICTORY AT WOLVERHAMPTON
The Athletic News-Monday 30 September 1895
THE REFEREE MOBBED
By Wulfrunlan
We have all aged a bit since the executive of the Wolverhampton Wanderers had their hearts gladdened by the sight of a 10,000 crowd at Molyneux grounds, and the taking of nearly £200 at a single match. I was going to say they had not had that pleasant experience since the closing days of last December, but I remember that the receipts at one of the Christmas engagements exceeded £150. Everton on Saturday brought a good team, and, as the locals were able to play full strength again, everybody expected a battle royal when the sides lined up in the following order;- Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Rose, goal; Baugh and Dunn, backs; Nurse, Malpass, and Owen, half backs; Wykes, Henderson, Beats, Wood and Griffin, forwards. Everton; Hillman, goal; Adams, and Parry, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, McInnes, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Referee; Mr. T. Armitt, Leek. There was little disadvantage in losing the toss, for the locals who were given second choice of ends, showed up so exceptionally well after the first ten minutes that their supporters felt very comfortable about the ultimate issue. The only real trouble the visitors were giving came from the left wing, though McInnes was right off in kicking over when a tolerably good chance cropped up. Nurse was attending to Chadwick and Milward with the same cleverness he manifested against the Sheffield Wednesday left wingers, and when they did slide round him the veteran Baugh would have them nicely settled. At the terrace end some beautiful work was being got through by the home vanguard. The scoring account should have been opened by Wykes from a pass by Henderson, who, though well situated himself, thought his partner was still better placed, and the latter rewarded the unselfishness by shooting anywhere but in the direction of the net. Johnny Holt was displaying all his old cleverness, and more than once or twice did the little International save his side. seldom even in Preston’s palmiest days, have I witnessed such perfect passing as the “Wolves” forwards showed. Time after time were the “blues” driven back into goal, and the home efforts were crowned with the success they merited. It was from a pretty centre of Wykes’s that harry Wood did the trick, simply “trying up” the burly Hillman with a speedy shot of the daisy-cutter variety. Down swooped the Wanderers again, and Adams and Parry were kept working like trojans while the irrepressible Holt was here, there, and everywhere, and proving himself more than a match for the ex-Burslemite, beats. The latter had a tussle a good few yards from head-quarters with Hillman, who had run out to save, and did so after an exciting fifteen seconds, and Rose had a very similar experience at the other end, judging his rush out to a nicety, and clearing amidst great cheering. A finer goal than that of Beats’s one could never wish to see. He got possession when at fifteen yards’ range, and the custodian had no earthly chance with the lightning shot that came in. with the healthy lead of a couple of goals at the interval, and judging from the play up to this point, it looked guineas to goose-berries on the locals annexing two points; but, oh! What a falling-off was there in the second 45. The change in the game was simply amazing. It may have been that the Wanderers were so well satisfied with the advantage already gained that they were lulled into a sense of false security, or that the intense heat had a more pronounced effect upon them than upon their rivals. Let the cause be what it may, Everton fairly astonished everybody by the way they shock themselves into tiptop form. Their forwards, splendidly fed by Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, gave a brilliant exposition, and goals by Milward and McInnes quickly enabled the side to draw level. Many people thought that Rose might have got at Milward’s shot, but certainly the ball was travelling at a big speed, and the other point was the upshot of a free kick given against Dick Baugh for charging an opponent in the back. Now came the tug of war, and there went up a yell of delight as, out of a scrummage, Wood beat the Everton keeper-a  yell which gave instant place to howls of disappointment when Mr. Armitt ruled that the offside law had been infringed. The Wanderers contention was that Wood had been put onside by parry playing the ball; but the referee had his own opinion, and stuck to it. To add to the aggravation of the crowd, Hartley scored the winning goal just before time, after rose had but partially stopped a lofty shot from under the bar, and so the “Wolves” after appearing well-set for victory, had the mortification of seeing their rivals pull the game out of the fire. The locals were simple nowhere in the second half, and it would be distinctly grumpish not to allow Everton the credit of having fought gallantly for success. That they were considerably lucky, all the same, they themselves admitted; but playing as they did against such odds was magnificent testimony to their pluck, stamina, and determination. Hillman and the backs played well, holt and Boyle did yeoman service, and Chadwick, Milward, and Williams helped materially to the success. Of the losers, Rose stopped a good few shots, Baugh and Dunn were in form, and Maplass and Owen did their utmost to stave off defeat, Nurse finding his opposing wing too good for him after the “refresher.” Wykes was playing well until he got damaged and retired for the last quarter of an hour, and some clever work was accomplished by wood, beats, and Griffin; but Henderson was distinctly off colour. At the close of the match there was a scene which is, I an glad to chronicle, very rare in connection with Association football, and such a one as I have never seen approached hitherto on the Wanderers’ enclosure. Granted that several of Mr. Armitt’s decisions were peculiar, and that to the vast majority of the onlookers the goal which he disallowed was a perfectly good one, no justification whatever is afforded by the mobbing which he received. A lot of people showed conduct which one might charitably wish could be attributed to the heat having affected their brains. They howled at him, hissed and hooted him, and assumed such a threatening attitude towards him as he was trying to leave the field that the services of the policemen present had to be brought into active display to guard him in safety to the reporters’ box. Councillor Hollingsworth and other members of the directorate, together with the players, protected him to the utmost of their ability and fortunately he escaped unhurt. He told me that he had been hit only with one or two bits of turf which did him no harm and frankly acknowledge the efforts of the officials of the club on his behalf. The occurrence was a most unfortunate finale to the afternoon’s proceedings, and the directors intensely regret the offering of such an insult to a generally respected referee. Wolverhampton is ashamed of the perpetrators.

THE LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
The athletic News- Monday, September 30, 1895
By the Loiterer
An item interesting to Evertonians is the intelligence that Cameron will positively play for Everton next Saturday, probably as centre-forward.
Allow me to congratulate the Everton team on their success at Wolverhampton. They have had their share of abuse for their displays in the last few matches and it is just like them to upset calculations, as on Saturday. The men have it in them, and I am pleased they are showing their true form. Owing to illness Bell will be absent for a little while, but many think McInnes his equal as inside right. I have not seen him play lately, but he was always a favourite of mine.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v.  EVERTON
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 30, 1895
The initial League game between the above teams this season was played at Molyneux grounds, Wolverhampton, on Saturday. There would be some 10,000 spectators present. The Wanderers received a hearty cheers on stepping into the arena a slight recognition being also awarded to Everton. The visitors won the toss, and Beats started promptly, the sun and wind slightly favouring Everton. The opening was very tame, the first item of importance being a free kick to the Wolves. This was followed by midfield play, after which Holt put the forwards in possession, and Williams had a good opening, but shot high over the bar. Everton were having the best of the play the Wolves defence being several times tested, but they responded manfully to all the calls made upon them. The Wanderers after this suddenly dashed away, Henderson making tracks for the Everton goal, and transferring to Wykes; the latter gave to Beats, who compelled Hillman to handle. The ball was well got away, and Everton were conceded a free kick. Parry landed the ball on the top of the net from the centre. The Wolves went off in fine concerted movement, and so pressed were Everton that Parry gave a corner. This was successfully cleared, but the Wolves were not to be denied and severely hampered the Everton defence, Woods scoring with a magnificent swift low shot, giving Hillman no chance whatever. This point came after ten minutes’ play. This success put the Wanderers on good terms with themselves and they again assailed the visitors’ goal to some purposes, the visiting defence having a warm five minutes. At length,the persistent attacks were beaten back, and Everton paid a brief visit to the other end, Chadwick having a good but ineffectual shie. Considering the intense heat the pace had been extraordinary, and it was not surprising to see it flag somewhat. The players, however, were soon at high pressure again, and Wood was again near doing the trick the ball just skimming the wrong side of the post, Hillman ran out to meet the ball and was collared round the neck by Beats for which the referee promptly granted a free kick. A long spell of pressure was then put on by Everton, but nothing tangible resulted, the only good shot coming from Williams, which Rose splendidly fisted away. Play was fairly even now, both sides in turn attacking, but the final attempts lacked proper direction. Milward, however, on one occasion missed by a few inches only. Henderson made play on the left, and some smart exchanges followed on the part of the home forwards. Wykes eventually sending wide. Everton had a chance from a free kick, but Dunn repulsed finely, which caused hostilities to be carried on in the visitors’ quarters. Offside, however, was given against the Wolves, and Everton once more go into the Wanderers’ ground, some nice passing being shown by the Everton front rank, but the defence was too good to penetrate. A foul throw in by Stewart placed the Everton goal in jeopardy, and the visitors had to put forth all they know to keep their goal intact. Wolverhampton still kept up the pressure. Wykes was given a splendid opening but missed the ball altogether, Beats having a further abortive shie. A miskick by Owen let in the blues, Williams shooting in strongly, but Dunn put his cranium under the sphere and went it to less dangerous quarters. Everton, aided by a free kick, were aggressive for a while, McInnes forcing a corner, but Milward spoiled the effect of this by fouling an opponent. The free kick saw hostilities being fought out at the centre, where Hartley came into possession, and after a short run tried a long but unsuccessful shie, Rose clearing easily. Some amusement was erected by Baugh, who was on his knees, heading away the ball, which was much too near the goal to be pleasant. Play followed in close proximity to the Everton citadel, Wykes ultimately shooting high over. The Everton defence was surely tested hereabouts, the Wolves forwards showing some excellent combination but fortunately for the visitors Holt was in fine trim, and repeatedly checked the persistent attempts on the part of the Wanderers. Play was not now by any means so fast, and Everton paid a fruitless flying visit to Rose’s goal. Then the Wolverhampton men raced off at top speed, Beats getting the ball and easily eluding Adams, took deliberate aim, and amid frantic cheers on the part of the spectators, scored the second goal. Everton were pressing at the interval which arrived with the score as follows;- Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 goals, Everton nil. The attendance at the interval could not have been much less than 12,000. With two goals in minority, Everton did not appear to have a very rosy chance of adding any points as result of the day’s encounter, and the visitors’ supporters were not very jubilant hostilities were resumed. The Wanderers at once assumed the upper hand, and several times the visiting goal was jeopardised, but Holt, Stewart and Boyle successfully repelled the attack. Henderson then sent in a warm handful to Hillman, who fisted away finely, after which the visiting right moved along in attacking order, but to no purpose, as Dunn placed the globe outside. Boyle took a free kick, which, however, yielded no advantage and Parry by having his kick charged, let in the home men, but luckily for his wide their goal was not endangered. Everton then had a turn of pressure some smart passing being shown by the front rank. Chadwick tricked Nurse, and passed to Milward, who took deliberate aim from a long range, and scored a magnificent goal. Having now reduced the margin by one, the Everton men returned to the attack with renewed vigour, but the Wanderers’ defence was not to be trifled with, and ultimately the invaders had to beat a retreat Henderson tested Hillman, who responded well, and then the Everton left got away. Chadwick putting in a fine run, from which Milward forced a corner. After the ball had bobbed about in a tantalising manner close to the home goal. Owen removed the play to less dangerous quarters. Everton were now having decidedly the best of the argument, ensuing the Wanderers’ defence trouble but they failed to get the desired object. End to end play followed without either custodian being tested. Hartley made one mistake. This, however, he soon atoned for, and caused Everton to again assume the attack, which they did to some purpose, the Wanderers not being able to get away at all. A free kick against the Wolves was placed right into the mouth of goal by Parry, and McInnes meeting the ball on the rebound banged it into the net, thus placing the sides on an equality. Some really pretty and effective passing was then indulged in by the Everton forwards, in which each men took part, and it certainly deserved a better fate than awaited Williams’s parting shot, which missed by about a foot. Chadwick then made an attempt, Baugh, however, clearing splendidly. Hands against Wood put Everton in an aggressive attitude and the Wolves defence was for some time severely tried. Holt at length bringing the pressure to a close by sending over the line. The Wanderers at last got a turn of attack but their stay in Everton’s quarters was very brief, Wood shooting wide. They, however, came again, Hillman giving a corner, this being cleared by Holt. The play during the last ten minutes proved most exciting, each end being in turn the scene of operations. Five minutes from the finish there was an exciting tussle close to the Everton goal, and one of the Wanderers rushed the ball through but he was palpably offside, and the referee promptly ruled a free kick, which decision seemed greatly to incense the spectators. Racing straight away the ball was taken by Everton to Rose’s end, and after the custodian had once cleared McInnes gave Everton the lead, the game ultimately ending in their favourably 3 goals to 2. After the match, a section of the spectators made a determined attempt to mob the referee (Mr. T. Armitt), earth, stones, and other missiles being hurled at him, and it was found necessary to hurry him into the Press-box out of harm’s way. Eventually, with the aid of the policy and the officials of the club, Mr. Armitt got safely away. The mob also made an attack on several of the Everton players as they were leaving the ground for their hotel, but fortunately no one was seriously hurt. This is the second time that an occurrence of this description has taken place when Everton have visited Wolverhampton. Geary and one or two others receiving rather nasty injuries some three of=r four seasons back. Teams;- Everton; Hillman, goal; Parry and Adams, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, McInnes, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Wanderers- Rose, goal; Baugh, and Dunn, backs; Nurse, Malpass, and Owen, half-backs; Wykes, Henderson, Beats, Wood, and Griffin, forwards.

COMBINATION
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 30, 1895
EVERTON v.  WREXHAM
But a mere handful of spectators assembled to witness this Combination match, which was played at Goodison Park, Elliott lost the toss, Chadwick kicking off a few minutes after time. The homesters at once advanced and they lost a chance of scoring in the first minute, Ball clearing one shot from Flewitt and being lucky in kicking another away after leaving his goal. He then punched a shot over the crossbar, the consequent corner not being well taken. A rush down into the Everton territory culminated in a fruitless corner to the Wrexham team, Schofield sprinting away with the ball. This ended in a further corner on the right, Flewitt scoring after ten minutes play. Reay again shot in from the right Ball clearing, and then Hill sent in a lively shot, which compelled Ball to concede a corner, which proved unproductive. Everton still kept up a strong attack and after the Wrexham goalkeeper had been further hampered the visitors’ left wing broke away, Storrier sent the attacking force to the right about and the next moment Reay centred the ball, Hill shooting into the net as the whistle sounded. Immediately afterwards, however, Flewitt ran through his opponents and scored the second goal. Another fruitless corner having been taken by the home team, the visitors’ right wing and centre bounded away. Collins shot in and Hiles fell in attempting to save. Collins slipped in again, and struck the crossbar, McDonald meeting the ball, and inadvertently giving a corner, which was sent behind. Coming back again the homesters made short work of their opponents. Flewitt scoring the third goal, and Hill nearly adding a fourth. At the other end, Harrison sent in a good shot, but the next minute Ball had a handful, which ended in another barren corner. The Wrexham players now put in a nice bit of work, but were at length spoiled by Storrier, Hill and Reay took up the running, and the first-named sent over to Schofield, who centred accurately, Chadwick shooting over the crossbar. The same player again shot wide of the mark, and then Ball cleared finely from Chadwick. Storrier played havoc with a passing movement which was particularly in by Trevor Owen, Hughes and Harrison, and weak tackling on the part of the visitors again let in the homesters, the result being a fourth goal scored by Scofield. Chadwick missed an opening provided by Reay, but Hill made amends for this by scoring with a flying shot, which passed in at the corner of goal, half-time coming with the score in favour of Everton by five goals to none. Immediately after restarting the home team went to the front and Chadwick scored the sixth point. They kept up the advantage they had gained in the first half in rare style, and for some little while kept pegging away. Although their opponents made spasmodic efforts to retrieve their fallen fortunes, Hiles was only troubled once in the first quarter of an hour, and altogether the Wrexham men did not strike any great amount of terror into their opponents. Hill sent the ball into the net as the whistle went for offside, but immediately afterwards Chadwick scored the seventh legitimate point, the home side being easy winners by 8 goals to nil.