EVERTON 2 GLASGOW RANGERS 2
September 2 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The opening game of the season at Goodison park took place last evening, when the Glasgow Rangers, always a popular team, took the field against a somewhat mixed team of Evertonians and the enclosure was lined by about 8,000 spectators. The scotchmen came down with their strongest available recourse. At six o'clock the players lined up as follows: - Everton: - Menham goal, Barker and Storrier, backs, Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Robinson half backs, Taylor, Campbell, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Glasgow Rangers: - Dickie, goal, Jackson, and Drummond, backs, Gibson, McCreadie, And Mitchell, halfbacks, Crawford, Miller, Turnbull, Hyslop, and Smith (a) forwards . The visitors won the toss, and from the start a steady movement was made by the Everton defence towards Drummond, who broke up the best attempt to force the position, and landed the ball well down the field. The play for a time was maintained at a fairly good pace, and both sets of forwards were quickly testing the opposing defence. Barker and Storrier had plenty of demands made upon them, but they got well through their work when a touch of the old Everton combination left Milward in possession and successfully rounding Jackson had his first shot at Dickie, but was slightest wide of the mark. Spirited play by the whole Scottish quintet gave plenty of work to the homehalves, and when at length a spell of pressure was ably coped with the Evertonians gave endless trouble the Rangers last line of defence, but in the department little quarter was given though after several abortive attempts a hot one from Robinson almost reached the coveted net. Sharp nippy passing by the Rangers inside men backed up by capital play on the part of McCreadie the centre half, brought about a complete change of venue, and the eagerness with which the van and halves generally seized upon every opportunity to test Menham clearly demonstrated that they meant to put to the full the advantage they held consequent upon an earlier introduction than their opportnents in the season work. Class shots were prolific, and Menham had some excellent practice at shots of all description, whom at length he failed as the result of a smart pass from McCreadie to Turnbull who banged the ball through 15 minutes from the start of play. Getting to work again Menham was still kept on the qui vive, and amongst several shots sent in a magnificent high drive from Gibson was loudly applauded, but the custodian got it away nicely and following some smart tackling by Robertson, Cameron, Campbell and Chadwick were in the thick of a movement to the other end where Drummond only partly cleared, and Taylor finished up with a capital shot which, Dickie had no chance of keeping out. Play was evenly divided up to the interval when the score stood 1 goal each. After a brief interval the Rangers resumed play, but the home forwards were the first to make a decided incursion, and Milward finished up with a shot across the goalmouth, which required but the slightest touch from the right to find its way to the net. Directly afterwards Menhan got a warm handful from Hyslop but ground was lost to Mitchell fouling Taylor, and Goldie taking the kick, struck the crossbar, Milward finishing up by putting the ball outside. Heavy pressure followered on the Rangers goal and Taylor drove into the net, but was ruled offside, but almost immediately afterwards the same player took a swinging pass from the left and had no difficulty in beating Dickie, an appeal for offside this time not bring suctioned. For some time following this second success the Evertonians had much the better of the play, but eventually Storrier and Barker were hard pressure, and towards the finish Hyslop passed out to Smith, who easily rounded Barker, and as easily defeated Menhan with a low shot near the upright one which ought certainly to have been saved, as the custodian was on the spot, and there was apparently only sufficient room for the ball to pass through. A clinking shot from Chadwick and fine tackling by Robertson were the main feature in the remaining play, which finally ended in a drawn game, with the score – Everton 2 goals Rangers 2. Of the new men barker did well at right back, though on one or two occasions he was easily beaten, and at half Robinson was certainly a success, while Taylor, who was not brilliant in individual effort, played a fine passing game, and with better support will doubtless be a big acquisition on the right wing.

EVERTON v  RANGERS
Daily record-Wednesday 2 September 1896
This match took place at Goodison Park last night before 8,000 spectators. The Rangers had out their best team available, consisting of -Dickie; Jackson and Drummond; Gibson, McCreadie, and Mitchell; Crawford, Miller, Turnbull, Hyslop, and Smith. Everton were represented by-Menham; Barker, and Storrier; Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Robertson; Taylor, Campbell, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward. Rangers won the toss, and for the first ten minutes their lively forwards gave the Everton defence enough to do. Crawshaw made several fine dashing runs, centring with great accuracy, but for a long time was without success. Eventually McCreadie, robbing Cameron in midfield, passed to Hyslop who tripped to Turnbull, and the latter, taking steady aim, shot a very fine goal. Menham missed badly. The Rangers’ party on the stand were much in evidence at this early success and encouraging the players, Crawford a moment later, shot hard against the side of the net. Jackson at back was in difficulties several times, and was hard pressed. Drummond played with rare judgement. From a pass from the left wing to the centre, and then to the right, Taylor opened the scoring accounts for his new club with a side shot that Dickie never saw until the ball was in the net. Hyslop was penalised for putting his knee up to Goldie, much to Hyslop’s disgust. At half-time, the score was one goal each. Both goalkeepers had a cordial reception on charging ends. Milward and Jackson were continually at variance during the second half, Drummond also played more forcibly than was necessary. A free kick was awarded Everton, which Goldie took, but without success. From a splendid run by Chadwick, Dickie brought off a splendid save. He fell full length on the ground. The ball was returned into goal, and again put out, Taylor eventually scoring close in, but offside was given by the referee. From a foul against Drummond, Everton nearly scored again. Eventually Taylor received a long pass from the left wing, and, running up close, scored, Dickie making little attempt to save. On the point being allowed, the whole of the Rangers clustered round the referee claiming for some infringement, Dickie in particularly being very demonstrative, until Drummond pulled him away. Towards the close, the Rangers tried hard to equaliser, Smith eventually placed the ball just inside the post. McCreadie had hard lines a moment later. Result Two goals each.

EVERTON v GLASGOW RANGERS
The Liverpool Daily Post- Wednesday, September 2, 1896
The opening of the football season at Goodison Park excited considerable interest in local athletic circles yesterday, and, despite the threatening weather, there was a goodly crowd present at the time appointed for the start of the friendly game between Everton and the Glasgow Rangers. The splendid enclosure looked in capital order, a liberal coating of paint giving a fresh appearance to the stands, while the turf was in excellent condition. The Everton executive determined to play six of their new men, and prompt to six o’clock, in the presence of 8,000 spectators, the teams faced each other as follows;- Everton; Menham, goal; Barker and Storrier, backs; Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Robertson, half-backs; Taylor, Campbell, Cameron, Chadwick and Milward, forwards. Glasgow Rangers; Dickie, goal; Jackson and Drummond, backs; Gibson, McCreadie, and Mitchell, half-backs; Crawford, Miller, Turnbull, Hyslop and A. Smith, forwards. Losing the toss, Everton started. Cameron passing out to Chadwick, but the latter was robbed by Miller, and the Rangers got nicely away on the right, Miller passed across to Hyslop, who tried a shot, but Barker nipped in, and the leather travelled to the centre line. Here Milward got well down and passed to Chadwick but the latter was robbed when within range, and Drummond sent the homesters to the right-about. Everton soon came up again in attacking order, and from long range Meiklejohn sent in a nice shot, which, however, travelled over the bar. From the goal kick, Milward gained possession, and raced up in capital style, and though his final shot went wide, Dickie conceded a corner. This, however, came to nothing, and after a brief spell of midfield work the Rangers’ right broke away, giving Storrier plenty to do for a moment or so. The Evertonians proved equal to the occasion, and passing to Meiklejohn the latter sent the leather along to Campbell, but the home right were pulled up before getting far. Returning to the charge, Campbell forced a corner, but it was safely negotiated, and Smith raced away on the left at a fine pace, beating Goldie. Then passing to Hyslop the latter had an opening, but he failed to profit by it, Barker finally removing the danger. The visitors were soon on the aggressive, and a corner was forced from Barker, but nothing came of it, and Meiklejohn serving up to his forwards, Milward again raced off. He passed to Chadwick, but the latter lost possession, and Robertson, rushing up, shot wide of the mark. The Rangers’ left then paid a visit to home quarters, and this time their expedition was not without result. Turnbull, from a pass by Hyslop, scoring with one which Menham ought to have saved. Stimulated by this success, the visitors again swooped down upon the home defence, and Miller sent in a strong shot, which struck the upright. A spell of desultory work followed, and then the home forwards moved nicely off, but when close in Cameron was pulled up for some informality, and the Rangers once more returned to the attack, Hyslop and Smith both sending in shots which, however, failed in their intent. McCreadie passing to Turnbull, the latter tried his luck with no better success and play was then centred in midfield. Miller then  got possession, and sent in a beauty from long range, but it went wide, and another long shot by Gibson was safely negotiated by the home custodian. The Everton forwards then got a temporary look in, and, moving off in capital order, Milward sent right across to Campbell, who banged the leather into the net, thereby equalising matters. From a free kick Storrier gave his forwards possession, but McCreadie robbed Cameron, and passing out, Hyslop sent in a lofty shot, which Menham easily cleared. The Rangers were pulled up when in dangerous proximity to the home goal, and Chadwick and Milward travelled along, but Jackson proved a stumbling-block. The homesters however, again took up the offensive, and Robertson shot strongly, but the ball was cleared, and the visitors’ left wing ran down. A free kick close in gave them a nice opening, but Drummond sent behind. More midfield work followed, and them Campbell and Cameron worked the ball up towards dickie. Passing to Chadwick, the latter shot, but Drummond rushed in, and Mitchell was rushing off when the whistle sounded for half-time, the score then standing at 1 goal each. After a minute’s interval play was resumed, the opening exchanges being in favour of the visitors, who gave both Barker and Storrier plenty to do. The homesters then got away on the right, and Taylor passing to Campbell, the latter sent right across to Milward, who sent in a beauty, which just grassed the outside of the upright. A few minutes later Milward was again in evidence, but he was stopped by Jackson, and the visitors left getting possession, Hyslop shot, but Menham cleared. Goldie served up to Taylor nicely, and the latter made off at a grand pace, when he was upset by Mitchell. The free kick was taken by Goldie, the leather striking the bar, and from the rebound Milward set outside. The rangers’ left wing ran down, but Barker pulled them up, and the homesters went away strongly, Chadwick sending in a grand low shot, at which Dickie had literally to throw himself in order to clear. Before he could recover, Campbell returned to the attack and passing to Taylor, who was lying up, the latter sent the ball into the net. The point, however, was ruled offside. The home team were now playing up strongly, and it was not long before they were again in front of Dickie, Taylor, from a pass by Cameron, again banging the ball into the net, and thereby putting Everton in advance of their opponents. After this temporary improvement in the pace it again slowed down, but at length the visitors’ left improved smartly away, only, however, to be cleverly checked by Goldie. From a considerable range McCreadie shot strongly, causing Menham to fist out, and Miller from the return almost succeeded in heading the home custodian. The danger was eventually cleared by Storrier and Meiklejohn putting out. Hyslop was then instrumental in a pretty forward movement, and passing to Smith, that player beat Barker and sent the ball in past Menham, once more equalising matters. Restarting, the visitors again moved off towards the home goal, and Turnbull forced a corner, but nothing came of it, and Chadwick and Milward getting possession removed the scene of action. Jackson however, barred their progress and the leather was sent to the centre line, where Chadwick again got hold and shot strongly, Dickie just getting to it. Returning to the attack, Goldie tried his luck, at a shot, but this also was safely got away, and play was transferred to home quarters. In the last portion of the game semi-darkness made it almost impossible to discern the movements of the players and an evenly contested game ended in a draw of 2 goals each.

EVERTON CLUB
The Liverpool Daily Post- Friday, September 4, 1896
We understand that the personnel of the Everton team to oppose Sheffield Wednesday tomorrow, at Goodison Park, has not yet been definitely settled, but the back division will probably be Arridge and Storrier, with Briggs in goal, and most likely Holt will turn out as half back. There will be little change in the front rank from that which opposed Glasgow Rangers on Tuesday. The directors have unanimously chosen W. Steven Stewart as captain for the season of the League team and as Stewart is very popular with his colleagues the selection gives great satisfaction amongst the players. John Bell will be Stewart’s deputy, which is another popular selection. Elliott will again captain the Combination eleven, and Meiklejohn will be sub-captain.

ANOTHER LOSS TO IRISH FOOTBALL
Ulster Football and Cycling News -Friday 4 September 1896
We very much regret to hear there is quite a possibility of Hugh Gordon, one of the Linfield backs, going away to English professional service. There is much truth in then statement, and at the time of writing it is about decided Mr. Gordon will go to the Everton Club in Liverpool. We believe he signed a League form recently for that club and Linfield have been asked by the Everton people for his transfer. Last week we were congratulating ourselves on the matter of losing only one player from our midst, and a good one too; now we are about to lose another, and one that will be missed in our Inter-League and International matches. Gordon’s play against England and Scotland last season will not readily be forgotten at left half, and he had the honour of being captain of the first Irish team that ever played Scotland to a draw. We hope, however, matters may be squared up and Gordon retained in our midst,. We can ill afford to spare him.

EVERTON v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
The Liverpool Daily Post- Saturday, September 5, 1896
We understand that Cameron, of Queen’s Park, who played centre forward occasionally last year for Everton, will be included in the team to-day.

EVERTON 2 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 1
September 7 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The League season opened at Goodison Park on Saturday and as in the previous year, the Sheffield Wednesday eleven were the visitors to the greatly improved ground. The fact that Liverpool had beaten the cup holders gave a fillip to the contest, and at the commencement of operations there would be quite 16,000 spectators present. The teams took the field as follows : - Everton: - Briggs, goal, Storrier, and Arridge, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Bell Taylor, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward forwards. Sheffield Wednesday: - Massey, goal, Langley, and Melia, backs, Petrie, Crawshaw, and Jamieson halfbacks, Spikesley, Davis, Bell (l), Brady (a), and Brash, forwards. Referee Mr. Barker. It will be noticed that a couple of changes were made in the visitors ranks that opposed of the Liverpool club on Tuesday, but Earp who was then injured giving place to Melia of the reverse team, and Jamieson returning his old position at half back. Winning the toss, Everton had the benefit of the wind, and for some time play located at the Sheffield half. Following some smart manouvring on the home left the ball travelled to Cameron, who easily tested Massey, and Bell followed suit almost immediately afterwards, but the custodian got both away, and a steady move was made to the other end. Davies was about to put the finishing touch when Arridges chipped in, and after the Sheffield Bell had worked the ball to within comfortable range from Briggs and was them despoiled by Holt, the home left tore sway, and a splendid finish from Milward only missed the mark by a few inches. Infringement of rule kept the referee fairly employed up to this period, and from free kick Brash and Brady were in possession, and the latter gave Briggs his first handful. Within a couple of minutes Massey had twice cleared at short range from Bell and Cameron, and a further effort on the part of Chadwick-a fast shot along the ground, was also well attended to. There was no doubt as to the superiority of the home attack up to this juncture, but goal getting was altogether at a discount Taylor and Bell were much too smart for Jamieson, and they lost no opportunity of testing Massey, who kept out a magnificent high shot from the inside man, and had no sooner cleared then he accepted one from Cameron on the line. On Holt penalised Davis a changes of venue was effected, but owing to the attentions of Stewart and Boyle the Sheffield wingers had very little chance to get away. Eventually Spikesley beat Storrier, and just as everyone was prepared to follow the parting shot, Holt nipped in most mysteriously, and the chance was lost. Immediately afterwards a howl of disappointment went up as Cameron failed to convert a pass from Milward, and again as Boyle, with a grand dropping shot, only just missed his mark. A couple of corners were got away by Melia and Davis, and on a further attack Crawshaw headed out of the goalmouth, and the Blades must have heaved a sign of relief when the referee directly afterwards announced half time. Play had no sooner been resumed then Massey was again called upon, and for some time the old order of things again held away. Eventually Spikesley had the measure of Storrier, and for some little time the visiting forwards gave glimpse of better play as they passed and repassed to each other in a style that contrasted markedly to their hitherto weak attempts at combination. One of these movements resulted in Brash racing round Stewart and parting to Bell, who popped the ball over to Spikesley, Briggs having to fling himself full length to defend his charge. After a short relief the Wednesday forwards again pounced down on the home goal, and Davis sent in a hand shot, Which the custodian cleverly saved, but before he could get up top clear he was rushed through by the wing men, the visitors unexpectedly opening the scoring. During the next ten minutes the Evertonians were playing like beaten team, but a complete change came over the game as Cameron with a brilliant effort, threated his way through the backs and scored seven minutes from the close, and, obtaining a second point just on time, Everton ran out winners by 2 goals to one.

MACCLESFIELD 0 EVERTON RESERVES 4
September 7 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
At Macclesfield. Eight minutes after the start Cameron opened the scoring for Everton, and before the interval that player and McDonald had raised the visitors score to three goals to nothing. After a period of even play Cameron recorded a fourth point for Everton, who held the upper hand to the Finnish, the game ending- Everton 4 goals, Macclesfield nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 7 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton opened their season in a friendly with Glasgow rangers, and the occasion served to give a trial to thew new players. Some 6,000 spectators witnessed the game, and though it rarely savored of keen excitement there were nevertheless many fine passages that lifted the play above the ordinary level of the class of fixture. The game resulted in a draw of two goals each, and this must have come on a bitter disappointing to the fully equipped Rangers team against the mixed combination. The season proper opened on Saturday, and if ever a team on the day's play deserved to make a successful debut in the League football that team was Everton, but it was not until the last minute of play that they accomplished their object and enabled their numerous supporters to breathe freely. Fully three quarters of the play was contested in the Sheffield Wednesday half, and it was really astonishing how the numerous shots sent in should have failed to reach the mark. The whole team in the first half kicked a winning combination all over, for the backs played a sound game, and the forwards- well they could do everything, but the ball into the net. After changing ends they generally had the measure of their opponents, and what were the feelings of the players when they found themselves unexpectedly in a minority after holding possession of the play for so lengthily a period, can well be imagined. But that indomitable pluck which, has in past seasons carried them successfully through many a stern encounter, when luck has been altogether against them enabled them first to get level, and then to foreign ahead and none who closely followed the game could deny their chance to victory. The superb gal keeping by Massey alone saved the Blades from a crushing defeat. All varieties of shots were levelled at this particular individual's charge ands all seemed alike to him, as he fisted or scooped them out of the goalmouth with a dexterity one rarely sees sustained throughout a game. For an opening match, and on a ground that was necessarily heavy going consequently upon the recent rains, the pace was all that could he expect. Shooting at goal was the least satisfactory item, viewing the game from an Everton standpoint, for in the first half these were several occasions when in their eagerness to score the players drove straight at the custodian, when there was an open goal. In other respects the forwards gave an excellent display, and there can be no doubt that, providing the centre distributors the work more evenly to the wings then was the ones on Saturday, the quitet will are long be second to name in the country. Working one wing at the expense of another in a dangerous experience, and especially to when directed in a quarter where the greatest assistance is offered. Taylor, by his really excellent display, justified all the good things that have been said, and written concerning his abilities, and judging by the readiness and ease with which, he adapted himself to strange surrounding he will undoubtedly prove a most vauble acquisition. He stood a lot of knocking about, and when in possession of the ball his work was always clean and well directed. In conjunction with Bell on the outside there was a through understanding, and this wing, which was so uncertain quintet last season, bids fair to eclipse the indubitable left. Considering the great amount of work that was thrust upon the quarter in the first half, they kept pace to the finish and were always about when the ball was anywhere near Massey's charge. Few people expected to find the Queens's Park Cameron in the team, and under the circumstance the directors could not have adopted a write policy than keeping the old combination intact. Despite the fact the crossbar's attentions were lavishly bestowed upon him, he frequently upon him, he frequently left him behind, and withal kept those on either side of him generally well employed. It was however, in the closing stages of play that he shone out especially with a magnificent individual efforts, when the game appeared lost, and brought the teams on level terms-a success that was but the forerunners of a goal a few minutes afterwards which enabled Everton to notch full points. Chadwick and Milward were not particularly overworked; in fact they had perforce in the early portion frequently to disclose their existence by encroaching towards the right. Still they have lost none of their old cleverness, and some of the low screws shots of the inside man were worthy of better fate. The familiar trio, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart were so insurmountable better to the Sheffield front line, and in addition to safe tackling they opened numerous chances for those in front. At times however, Holt was rather too severe in his attentions to the Sheffield Bell, and on one occasion might easily have brought disaster, as a free kick was awarded close in. Boyle put in sterling work, and a couple of excellent shots, and Stewart was quite equal to the task of keeping Brash and Brady in check. The fact that Briggs was only tested twice in the first portion of the game is sufficient evidence of the quality of the full back play, and after the change of ends, when for a long spell the Wednesday forwards kept up a persistent pressure, the pair got through their work fairly well. there was however, a failing away towards the close for Storrier who through the greater portion of the game had been quite equal to the demands from Spikesley, was apparently tagged, and the speedy winger easily left him behind. Briggs was not disturbed under high pressure but still the few shots that came his way were of the ‘'class'' character, and that he ably dealt with them abundantly testifies to his ability in first class company. Taking the Wednesday team as a whole, they scarely upheld their reputation as cup holders, though the absence of Earp, who was injured on Tuesday last while playing against Liverpool, would in some measure account for only an average display. The only really brilliant combination among the forwards was that which immediately preceded the goal, and again a few minutes afterwards when the whole line passed and repassed to one another with a precision that caused no little unearness to the Everton defence. The three B's-Brash, Brady, and Bell-were not so busy as usual, for as started above, Holt was always in readiness for the centre and Stewart accept towards the close, when he was beaten several times, kept the wing men well in check. Spikesley was the most aggressive-of the five for, getting plenty of existence from Davis, he was always dangerous when the ball came his way and it was due to his smart running up that a breach was effected in the Everton defence. Crawshaw played a fine centre half game, and those on either side of him were not wanting in resource, while Leiper was most reliable back, and whenever, Melia a second team man, who filled Earp's position was hard pressed, he covered Massey on both sides with a splendid judgement.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday September 7, 1896
By the Loiterer
Already the Everton directors are catching it hot about the composition of their team, and thus early one of their “disgusted shareholders” had taken them to task over the presumably weak defence. It strikes me this individual was a bit too previous in his condemnation. Je would have shown more respect for the directors and players of the club he supports had he waited until the men had actually played, for Storrier, Arridge, and Briggs, up to Saturday’s match, had not been seriously tested, and I think they did not do so badly after all. It was only rarely that they were beaten, and on these few occasions they generally redeemed themselves and taking the game on the whole, and the result in particular, the team improved on last season’s performance. So that there is not much to cavil at.
The club opened the season with a friendly against Glasgow Rangers, who brought down a good team, and all the Scotchmen could do against the new recruits, barring Chadwick and Milward, was a two goals draw. So that the new men did not do badly. They have youth on their side, and are clever players, but lack experience. At the same time, Barker and Menham did not come up, to expectations, and the directors were wise in selecting the more seasoned players for the League match against Sheffield Wednesday. Backs of the Williams, Doyle and the Bolton Wanderers class are difficult to get; but the directors are alive to the situation, and have secured a good man in Gordon, of Linfield Athletic, but I don’t think even he will suit everybody.

EVERTONB WIN IN THE LAST MINUTE
The Athletic News -Monday, September 7, 1896
By the Free Critic
It was a good stroke of policy to book the English Cupholders for the first League match at Goodison Park, and there was a large crowd of close upon 20,000. It was only seven days before that the Australian cricketers were in Liverpool showing the Lancashire side how to bowl, but in these days of motor cars we move rapidly, and all at once plunge into the excitement of football. We should probably feel a little better for a short holiday to enable us to get rid of visions of McKibbin performing the hat trick or McLaren sending Trumble into the Mersey, but we haven’t time, and if by accident a little cricket phraseology does get mixed up in my attempt to describe how Everton gained two points in the championship table I hope you will excuse it. The Everton directors have been patronising the Aintree Racecourse again, and one of them, Mr. Crawshaw, seems to know where the racecourse turf ended to a blade of grass. It looked well, and there ought to be little complaint so far as the playing portion is concerned. Over the press-box has been erected an extra covered stand, and those desirous of being as near the sky as they can get and have a comfortable view of the game, can do so by payment of an extra guinea. This is about the only addition that has been made, but then when a ground is perfectly laid out you cannot make improvement each year. And few football enclosures can boast of better accommodation than that at Goodison Park. It was quite a pleasure to see old faces which one had lost sight of since April, but so far as the teams were concerned there was little difference. On the Everton side the burly Hillman was replaced by Briggs, Storrier appeared at full back, and Taylor, the old Dumbarton forward, partnered his quondam club mate on the right wing. Sheffield Wednesday were pretty much the same as carried off the Cup at the Crystal Place, with the important exception of their captain, Mr. J. Earp, who was injured on Tuesday night, Melia, a second team man, playing alongside Langley, who officiated as captain for the day. But here are the teams;-
Everton; Briggs, goal; Storrier and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart (captain), half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Cameron, and Milward, forwards.
Sheffield Wednesday;- Massey, goal; Langley and Melia, backs; Petrie, Crawshaw, and Jamieson, half-backs; Spikesley, Davis, Bell, Brady, and Brash, forwards. Referee; Mr. Barker.
Stewart commenced well by winning the toss, and of course went in to bat. The Wednesday did not seem to get going against the wind, and their goal was the scene of operations for the major portion of the first half. In fact, I don’t remember Briggs being called upon more than once, whilst Massey was giving a fine exhibition at the other end. There is no doubt about it the old Doncaster Rovers is a fine wicket-keeper, and can take leg balls- I mean footballs- splendidly. He had a lot to do, but for all that I didn’t think the Everton shooting very deadly, nor their passing too accurate; but they held a decided advantage during the first half, for it was but seldom the Sheffield people got anything like dangerous, and at luncheon, when the teams crossed over without any score, Everton had no need to record a special vote of thanks to their lucky star. In the second half we had a much more even game, and there was very little in it. Briggs was soon shown that he had not to play the part of a spectator, but he came out of the ordeal very well indeed, one save of his-a dash at a cross shot from Spikesley being a really clever bit of work. At the other end, without being as much troubled as in the initial period, Massey had several opportunities of showing what he could do, most of the danger coming from Bell, but neither side seemed to quite settle down, and when the Everton half backs gave way to Sheffield tumbled to the situation, and scored their only goal. It was no fault of Briggs’s, for that astute young man caught the ball, fell, and hardly bargained for the immediate presence of two of the Wednesday forwards, the ball and himself being rolled into the net. The Wednesday now played better than at any time during the game, whilst Everton were decidedly slacker, and as time rolled on it seemed pretty certain that Sheffield would win. There were, however, several close things very adjacent to Massey, but somehow the ball was cleared away, and on one occasion Bell was careering off in his best style when Langley brought him down, the referee having to use glasses of double magnifying power to decide whether or no it was over the penalty line. It wasn’t and the free kick came to nought. Seven minutes from time Everton were one behind, but they didn’t give up, and Bell passing judiciously to Cameron the latter placed the ball wide of Massey and the teams were equal. Right up to the finish we had a rare struggle, and less than a minute from time the ball, after banging about the Sheffield goal, somehow managed to slip through, and Everton had won by two goals to one, the proceedings being terminated without another ball being sent down. It was not a good game, but I suppose you must not expect too much in the early part of the season. The greatest falling off was in Crawshaw, who could not get going at all. He looks fit enough, but his play was nothing to what we experienced from the young international last season. The Sheffield forwards displayed fair combination occasionally, but it was only in fits and starts. Bell was closely watched by Holt, and Spikesley was about the pick of the bunch, although little Brash gave us some neat bits when he got the chance. Jamieson and Petrie worked hard, and so did the two backs, Langley as usual playing a dashing game, and all Melia wants is experience and a little more power in his foot. Massey I have already alluded to, and he is a custodian of a high order, and, when playing against the wind, of a very leisurely temperament in the matter of placing the ball for Langley to take a goal kick. Everton will not miss Hillman if Briggs showed his true form on Saturday, for if he had not a great deal to do some of the shots were extremely nasty ones, and required smartness to clear. Briggs has been keeping his hand and eye in by officiating behind the stumps for the East Lancashire cricket Club. The Everton backs did better than expected, but Storrier wants the rough corners rubbing off. There is plenty of him, and he can kick, but requires a little polish. Arridge kicked and tackled very well indeed, but the half-back line was not as powerful as last year. It was the same trio, but they did not back up their forwards in their accustomed style, and the greatest sinner was Stewart, who is now captain. But I suppose they will come again, for they are three clever class players. The forwards did some neat things, but as a whole lacked general cohesion, and there is too much wing play. Bell and Taylor on the one side and Milward and Chadwick on the other playing together in capital style, but without paying too much regard to the centre. I was surprised to see Taylor do so well at inside right, and he seems likely to make an admirable partner to Bell, who gave us some fine bits of play. When the Everton team gets settled down and another good back secured they should keep up their reputation easily enough, but their efforts on Saturday were not sufficiently in unison with each other to carry off say the championship. That they possess plenty of pluck was shown by the scoring of two goals in seven minutes, and actually winning the match in almost the last second, Cameron I believe, obtained both goals.

EVERTON’S LATEST CAPTURE
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 7, 1896
A Belfast correspondent telegraphs that the Everton directors have just concluded negotiations with Hugh Gordon, an Irish International back, and he left Belfast for Liverpool on Friday night. Gordon, it is said, is one of the finest full backs that ever stepped on a football field. He is nineteen years of age, six feet high and a thorough athletic. He will at once go in training for immediate engagements.

EVERTON v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 7, 1896
The League season at Goodison Park was inaugurated on Saturday under rather depressing conditions, arising from the dirty weather of the last few days. The contending elevens turned out just before four o’clock, there being at this time about 15,000 spectators in attendance. The fact that Stewart won the toss elicited cheers, and on Bell kicking off a few exchanges took place, Taylor eventually putting the ball out of play. A nice dribble by Chadwick culminated in Stewart shooting outside, but after this the home right once more came through, Taylor dropping a nice shot just to the left of the Wednesday goal. By way of a change Brash and Brady dashed away, but were neatly checked by Arridge, and after this Chadwick and his left hand supporter made headway, but the ball went out of play. On getting to work once more. Cameron shot strongly, but Massie cleared very cleverly. A foul against Storrier was not turned to proper account, for after the visitors had made a short incursion the Everton forwards got into swinging order again, and at the finish of a pretty move Chadwick just missed the mark. Chadwick shortly afterwards tried his luck again, but to no purpose, and then the Sheffielders scampered off to the other end, Brady having a good shot completely spoiled by Briggs. Storrier cleared a raid, and then Crawshaw was responsible for a couple of determined rushes on the part of the Evertonians. However, the homesters bored their way in, and Chadwick claimed corner, which Cameron met and nearly converted into a goal, being spoiled by extraordinary exertions on the part of Massey. The visitors’ goal was again besieged, but the Wednesday custodian gave a great display, and succeeded in frustrating all the well-meant efforts of his redoubtable opponents. After play had quietened for a few moments, Bell and Holt came into collision with the result that the Everton man came to grass in a rather abrupt manner. He soon recovered, and on hostilities being resumed Taylor became very badly finishing up a fine run by shooting hard for Massey, who saved very coolly. The visitors then dashed through. Bell and Davies being exceptionally busy, but Boyle headed out a shot, and on further pressure being brought to bear on the home defence the back division came out strongly and quickly cleared out the invaders. Racing away to the other end Chadwick sent in one of his sweetest shots, which was headed away by Langley, and then Milward was penalised for rushing the goalkeeper. Chadwick came into possession once, and almost scored, and after a retreat to centre field the homesters came back with irresistible force, Taylor finishing with the finest of shots, a trifle wide. A dash was then made by the Cutlers, who displayed some clever tactics when passing down the field. Bell was left in a fine position to make the final shot, but he only sent the sphere over the crossbar. Fouls against Boyle and Holt allowed the visitors to once more make headway, but their efforts came to nothing, the homesters coming away again, Cameron shooting very tamely. A foul against Melia was neutralised by Spikesley making one of his famous sprints, but this was checked owing to Storrier being fouled. An advance by Everton ended in Cameron shooting wide, and then the homesters had very hard lines, a pretty shot from Boyle dropping on the top of the crossbar. Bell and Taylor came back to means of a splendid dribble, but the former only succeeded in shooting by the side of the post. A few minutes off half time the home team tried hard to score, and it was only stern defence on the part of Langley, Melia and Massey that staved off disaster. A free kick into the Sheffield goal mouth looked ominous, but the leather was scraped away, although the home contingent came back on the left and claimed three corners. The attack was well kept up until half-time, which arrived with a clean sheet. Cameron restarted in the presence of about 18,000 spectators, the Sheffield goalkeeper being heartily cheered when he took up his position. The opening moves were distinctly in favour of Everton, who made a couple of smart attacks in the first minute. A foul against Davis led to a further onslaught, and a scrimmage ensued in the Sheffield goalmouth, when Massey came out with flying colours. However, the homesters kept up the pressure, and after a smart dribble Bell shot wide of the posts. Only once in the course of the first five minutes did Wednesday break over the dividing line, and then the Sheffield Bell had his shot cut short by Briggs. Fouls against each side became more numerous than pleasant, and from one of these Brady came to the front, but was himself almost immediately penalised, although he endeavoured desperately hard to get in his shot. A fine dash was made on the other wing by Spikesley, who sent in a clipper, which was well handled, Briggs coming to grief during the effort, but the cheer he received must have been very gratifying. Milward and Chadwick then gave a taste of their quality, and a fine sequence of passing was displayed on the right and left. This led to a shot from Bell, which ended in a corner being granted, but this was not properly utilised. A dash by Spikesley and Davis was then made into Everton territory, the Sheffield terror shooting hard into Briggs’s hands, the Everton man bringing off another fine save. A few moments later, however, a fine bit of work ended in the downfall of the Everton goal. A great and determined rush was made by the visitors, and Brash sent in a clinking shot, which troubled Briggs to the utmost. He gathered the ball, but then dropped  it and fell to the ground, and before he could recover himself properly Spikesley nipped up, and rolled goalkeeper and ball into the net, this taking place after twenty-one minutes’ play in the second half. Nothing dispirited by this unfortunate reverse, the home players went to work with great good will, and soon gained a footing in their opponents’ territory, but their only reward was a couple of fruitless corners. They were sent to the right about, and some  characteristic play on the part of the Sheffielders enabled Brash and Spikesley to send in rasping shot, Briggs saving finely from the first-named player. A bright bit of passing was broken up by Langley, and when the homesters came back in fine style on right and left, Bell was badly fouled by Langley, the free kick coming to nothing. Then a free kick was nicely placed by Petrie, the ball sailing towards goal, when it was headed away. More determined efforts were made be each side, but neither of the contending parties were able to make much impression. Cameron equalised six minutes from time, and Taylor scored a second goal just before the whistle blew, amid a scene of indescribable enthusiasm. Teams;- Everton; Briggs, goal; Storrier and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half backs; Taylor, Bell, Cameron, Chadwick and Milward, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday.- Massey, goal; Melia and Langley, backs; Petrie, Crawshaw, and Jamieson, half-backs; Brash, Brady, Bell, Davies, and Spikesley, forwards.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, Monday, September 7, 1896
AN EXCITING GAME
THE CUPHOLDERS BEATEN IN THE LAST SECOND
From Our Own Reporter
Although the weather in Sheffield on Saturday, when the Wednesday team left the Midland Station, was of a miserable character, at Liverpool the atmosphere was clear, and the weather fine. In the early morning, however, rain had poured down, but a rather stiff breeze had dried the ground, and everything pointed to a severe contest. The visit of the Sheffielders had caused additional interest, as the Liverpool team had paid a visit to Oliver Grove earlier in the week, and returned with a couple of points, consequently it was not surprising to see a huge crowd making its way towards the Goodison Park enclosure, a good hour before the time for the commencement, four o’clock. A goodly number of Sheffielders had also taken advantage of a couple of trips from Sheffield, and helped to swell the concourse. The ground was in first-class condition, notwithstanding the rain. In the visiting team Melia took the place of Earp, who was laid up with a swollen foot, whilst Petrie took Regan’s place at right half, Jamieson being introduced at left half. The forwards were as usual. The Everton team was very strong, and amongst its forwards was included a new man in the person of Taylor. Otherwise, the constitution of the team was of old. The home men were the first to appear, and they were greeted with loud applause, whilst the Sheffielders were accorded a similar reception. Stewart beat Langley in the spin of the coin, and took advantage of the wind. For a time play was confined to midfield, but then the Everton Bell got hold, and made for goal, only to run the ball over the line. The home team then pressed hard, and play was confined to Massey’s quarters. Chadwick shot feebly, and the visiting custodian easily got the ball away. Wednesday could not get over the halfway line, and Boyle had a shot which went over, whilst a little later Milward ran the ball out. Then Brash and Brady indulged in some tricky passing, and took the ball dangerously near to Briggs, only to see Stewart kick clear. The home team was evidently bent upon opening the scoring, for they clustered like cats around Massey, who twice saved in quick succession from Taylor and Bell, Boyle putting an end to an exciting period of pressure by shooting over the crossbar. A foul against Storrier ended the visitors to carry hostilities into the opposing half. Twice the forwards were grandly placed for a shot, but each time they were too well watched to have anything like a decent chance at Briggs. In a twinkling the ball was conveyed to the other end, where Milward caused the crowd to roar with delight as they imagined that he had opened the scoring. Unfortunately, the ball had gone a few inches the wrong side of the bar. So far fouls had been plentiful, and as the result of one of these Briggs was called upon to save his first shot from Brady. The Sheffield centre-forward outwitted several opponents, and gave Spikesley a tricky pass. A tight race ensued between Storrier and the Sheffield flier, but it ended in the victory of the former, who relieved his goal nicely. Thereupon ensued a most exciting scrimmage in the Sheffield goal mouth. From a corner correctly placed by Chadwick, Bell shot in from short range, and Massey brought off a really magnificent save. Immediately afterwards Cameron followed suit with another shot which Massey was equally alert in fisting out. As the pressure continued the Everton players received a well-deserved round of applause from their supporters at the splendid game which so far they had played. They were at length beaten back, and again Storrier had the better of an encounter with Spikesley. Capital play by Taylor resulted in Bell having a good chance for an oblique shot, and he used it so splendid effect. Massey having the narrowest possible shave of getting beaten. Further bombardment of the Wednesday goal followed, but Massey proved impassable. By a pretty passing movement all along the line the Wednesday men relieved their goal, but this only proved to be momentary, for soon the home team were placing them again on the defensive. Chadwick, who had just previously caused Massey to throw out a good shot, put an end to the attack by shot high over the bar. A collision between Holt and Bell seemed to injure the Everton half-back rather badly, as he fell on the field and writhed in evident pain for some time. He was able to resume, however, and the game had hardly been restarted before the Everton right wing was again prominent and Taylor had a splendid attempt, Massey just clearing his goal before being floored by Cameron. The latter player afterwards tested Massey with a swift, low shot, which proved of no avail. Davis was sailing away neatly with the ball in Everton’s direction, when he was robbed by Holt, but the referee penalised the Everton for unfair tactics. The free kick was planted right into the goalmouth, but was promptly headed out. At this point, Mr. Horne, one of the neutral linesmen, awarded a throw in to Sheffield Wednesday after the ball had obviously touched a Wednesday in going out of play, but the referee promptly altered his decision, to the satisfaction of the spectators. Chadwick raced away and forced a corner off Melia, but landed the ball the wrong side of the bar. Milward was penalised for unfairly charging Massey as he was saving from Chadwick, and the latter a moment later nearly knocked the Wednesday goalkeeper off his pins. Though having altogether the best of the play, Everton could not, try as they would, penetrate the defence, and in this they were distinctly unlucky. One shot at this point just skimmed the crossbar. At length, the Wednesday forwards began to give a genuine taste of their quality. A fine movement between Spikesley and Davis ended in Bell getting an opening, and he sent in a lightning shot, which, fortunately for Everton, went over the crossbar. A couple of free kicks gave the Wednesday players still further assistance, but on each occasion the ball was sent harmlessly over the line. Another attack was now waged on Massey’s charge, but it ended just as fruitlessly as before, Cameron shooting wide of the mark. After some uninteresting midfield play Everton, by means of a free kick, again placed Massey’s charge in jeopardy, and another fierce attack was made upon it, but the long-desired goal would not come. Spikesley and Bell, by tricky passing, opened out play, and carried the ball to the other end, but Spikesley had no sooner touched the ball for his final centre than he was penalised for off-side. This enabled Everton once more to assume the aggressive, and Chadwick and Cameron had good attempts which went wide. Boyle tried his luck with a high dropping shot, and shaved the crossbar, unluckily for Everton, on the wrong side. The Wednesday forwards seemed quite unable to cope with the Everton half-back line, and on one occasion, when Spikesley seemed likely to get away, it was amusing to see the ease with which Storrier brushed him off the ball. Bell had particularly hard lines with a grand shot, which missed the Sheffield posts. The Everton eft wing were playing a grand game. Milward tricked his opponents time after time, and once passing at the right moment to Chadwick, that player sent in a real teaser, which Massey barely saved. A corner was forced off Langley, and placed right in the goal mouth by Chadwick. This time the downfall of the Wednesday goal seemed inevitable, but Massey seemed to bear a charmed life. Everton were awarded a free kick just outside the twelve yards line, but this yielded them no advantage, and further attacks were made equally without result. Three corners in rapid succession fell to Everton, and just as the third had been taken the whistle blew for the blew for the interval, with the score reading;-
Sheffield Wednesday 0, Everton 0.
When the game was resumed, Wednesday, of course, had the advantage of the wind. At the start the home men had the best of the exchanges. Massey saving three in fine fashion from a scrimmage. Then the visitors had a fine chance, but Bell trod on the ball, and Holt returned. Cameron sent in a shot which just rolled past the post, and again Wednesday had a try, Bell forcing Briggs to handle smartly. Davies was conspicuous by some pretty dodging, which ended by his having a shot, but Brash was a little too late to convert it. For a while Massey was left unmolested, and Melia got the better of three opponents very prettily. However, Cameron got away by himself, and shot hard in, the ball rebounding off Massey’s knees, and the goal escaped by a miracle when the home centre dashed in and placed the leather over the bar. Brady and Brash then had a passing bout, which terminated in the former putting in a fast low shot, which briggs collared with difficulty. Hands were very frequent, both sides being penalised alike, but no goals accrued. Brady had a good chance, but he missed his kick, whilst Brash was robbed by Storer when well placed. A minute later, after some fine work on the part of the visiting defence, Spikesley got possession, and indulged in one of his old runs, finishing up by sending in a nasty dropping shot which Briggs threw himself at and saved with the utmost difficulty, when he seemed certain to be beaten. Wednesday were hereabouts having quite as much of the game as their opponents, and a foul to them was just dropped wide of Petrie. Langley had to give a corner to get rid of a shot from Bell, whilst directly afterwards Cameron shot most miserably when in a good position. Spikesley and Davies fairly electrified the crowd by a splendid piece of passing, and the outside man again called on briggs to clear an awkward shot, which the latter did with difficulty. It seemed certain that Wednesday would score and they did eventually. After some severe bombarding Brash got possession, and put in a quick low shot, which Briggs stopped on the floor. Before he had time to clear, however, Spikesley was upon him, and with a bound the ball was in the net. This was after twenty-two minutes’ play, and was received with loud cheers. After this the game was fairly even for a time, but the home men gained a corner, and although it was well placed it was eventually shot outside. Two more flag kicks accrued to the Blues just after, but Langley kicked away, and the ball was taken to the other end, and from a throw-in Brady sent over to Jamieson, but the latter made a rather feeble attempt, his effort going very wide. Spikesley might easily have added to the score a minute later, but he shot too wide. Petrie just after put in a free kick, which briggs fisted away from among a cluster of players, a corner resulting, but nothing came of it, and at the other end a couple of fouls to the home team were got away after a small amount of trouble. The spectators began to shout for an equalising, but the Wednesday defence was as sound as a rock, and repulsed all efforts to break through. Several times did Cameron and Co, try to do the needful, but Massey was as keen as could be. However, the goal came at length, for after some shooting on the part of Bell, Cameron got hold, and with a high screw shot made matters equal, Massey not having the slightest chance with the shot. There was a tremendous roar at this success, which took place about five minutes from the finish, and, elated with their success, the Everton men played up with any amount of dash, and twice Massey’s charge was within an ace of being lowered. Just before time the home men tried for a win, and Taylor succeeded in placing the ball past Massey from a scrimmage, amidst tremendous cheers, and there was not time for the ball to be pulled out of the net, the home team winning by the skin of their teeth, in the last round, after having none the best of the game, taking the match all through. The result was;-
Everton 2 goals, Sheffield Wednesday 1.
Sheffield Wednesday-Massey, goal; Melia and Langley (Captain), backs; Petrie, Crawshaw, and Jamieson, half-backs; Brash, Brady, Bell, Davis, and Spikesley, forwards.
Everton;- Briggs, goal; Storrier and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Referee, Mr. A.J. Barker, Newcastle under-Lyne, Linesmen, Messrs J.J. Bentley and Horne.

MANCHESTER CITY V EVERTON.
September 9, 1896. The Sheffield Independent.
This friendly fixture was played at Manchester, before 2,000 spectators in fine weather. The home team had the best of the opening exchanges, but Menham played the correct game in goal. Play was fast and exciting but nothing was score before the interval. On charging ends Everton was to the front and Williams saved repeatedly. After pretty play Hartley scored for the visitors. Result Manchester City 0 Everton 1.

MANCHESTER CITY 0 EVERTON 1
September 9 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
This friendly game between the above clubs was played at Ardwick last evening, but the fixture failed to attract more than 2,000 spectators. While the City were well fortified, the Evertoninas had a somewhat missed team, the sides lining up as follows: - Everton: - Menham, goal, Barker, and Storrier, backs, Goldie, Holt, and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Taylor Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Manchester City: - Williams goal, Reay and Ditchfield, backs, Mann, Bannister, and McBride, halfbacks, Meredith, Finnerhan, Hill, Sharples, and Townley forwards. The opening play was distinctly in favour of Everton, as the City were for some time kept fully extended to their lines, but the defenders shaped exceptionally well, and eventually their forwards raced nicely down, but failed to exact more than a fruitless corner. This was the signal for better effort, and the City for a lengthily period swarmed round the Everton defence, and Meredith had a district chance to open the scoring, but badly failed, much to the disgust of the home supporters. The Everton right pair were conspicuous in a well-directed attack on William's charge, and but for a smart bit of judgement by the custodian his colours must have been lowered. At the other end Townley only missed by a few inches. The subsequently play up to the interval was of the usual friendly class, and the only really attractive bits of play were forthcoming by the respective defenders, of whom Storrier, and Reay were particularly successful. At the interval there was nothing scored, and on restarting Everton again showed up strongly, but the shooting of the van was distinctly weak. Holt was ever prominent in keeping his forwards in possession, but some time had elapsed before a goal was registered- the outcome of smart play by Chadwick, who raced round several opponents and defeated Williams. The light was fading fast, and it was difficulty that the game, which was now altogether favorable to the visitors, could be followed. Through the Manchurians made several determined efforts to pull up level, the score remained maltered and a rather uninteresting game ended in favour of Everton by a goal to nil.

EVERTON v  MANCHESTER CITY
The Liverpool Daily Post- Wednesday, September 9, 1896
This friendly match was played last evening on the Ardwick Ground, before a small attendance of spectators. Hartley kicked off for Everton, and after some few changes Taylor centred for Chadwick but the ball went wide, and soon following Hartley tested the defence. The Everton forwards settled down into a see-saw passing game, and for about a quarter of an hour “played” with the opposing side, the ball during this period never getting over the half-time, but the “pops” at goal were few and far between. The home right wing at last hot away, and for several minutes Menham’s goal was jeopardised. Sharples put in a shot which nearly scored, and then Meredith and Finnerban tried what the Everton goalkeeper was made of. For some time the ball hovered about the visitors’ goal, Meredith once shooting finely for Menham to clear. Storrier at length cleared out the attackers, and Holt further improved the Everton position, but Bannister soon put the play back again, and Meredith and then Townley gave Menham a couple of fine shots to handle. The Everton left wing pair at length cleared the attack. Milward rushed the leather up the field, and beat Ditchfield, but the latter afterwards fouled the Evertonians and from the free kick a corner was forced, which ended in nothing. Storrier afterwards did useful headwork, and Chadwick splendidly took the ball from the foot of an opponent for Hartley later on to brush the goal mouth. Townley rushed the ball down, and shot in, but Meredith, who had a capital opportunity to open the City account, waited for Storrier to get the ball away. Some good midfield play followed for some time. Then Storrier had a tussle with Meredith on the Everton goal line, and Finnerhan we again within an ace of scoring. Barber kicked well up the field, but the ball was back in quick time, Menham conceding an unproductive corner. Everton failed to shake off the attackers, and the hopes of the home side were raised to a point of great enthusiasm when Hill screwed in a marvellously good shot from the right, Goldie most opportunely rushing in and kicking away before Townley could pass the leather into the net. Half-time was soon after called, neither side having scored. The second half opened very tamely, the players keeping the ball dodging about midfield. The Everton defence was first tested, and then play settled for some time in front of Williams’s charge. Taylor at this juncture having particularly hard lines in not finding his way into the goal net, Ditchfield waylaying a clever shot and kicking clear. The pressure, however, could not be got rid of. The Everton half backs kept feeding their forwards, and the latter continuously bombarded the City goal, but without finding any breach in the defence. One good shot from Stewart’s foot nearly found its way in, but Ray was lying handy and saved. At length Chadwick after working round several opponents, sent in a low raking shot from a long range, which Williams failed to save, a lot of hard work being thus rewarded. Menham throughout this half had been merely a distant spectator, and thus failed to get the practice he heeds. The players could hardly be distinguished in the fast-fading light, but the ball was scarcely ever many yards from the home goal, the game finishing about seven o’clock in favour of Everton by 1 goal to nil. Teams;- Everton; Menham, goal; barker and Storrier, backs; Goldie, Holt and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Manchester City;- Williams, goal; Ray and Ditchfield, backs; Mann, Bannister, and McBride, half-backs; Meredith, Finnerban, Hill, Sharples, and Townley, forwards.

AN EVERTON FOOTBALLER AND HIS VOTE
The Liverpool Echo-Thursday, September 10, 1896
Special Telegram
One of the last claims objected to at the Blackburn Revision Court, yesterday, was that of Edgar Chadwick, the well-known Everton footballer. The objection was that Chadwick had not occupied the house for the full qualifying period, but he declared he became tenant on the 6th July last year. Asked how he fixed the date be triumphantly replied he was not likely to forget it, as he was married on the 9th. The vote was allowed.

MACCLESFIELD v  EVERTON COMBINATION
Alderley & Wilmslow Advertiser-Friday 11 September 1896
About 1000 persons watched the game. Everton in the first half played up hill, but with the wind the visitors first pressed and scored after 12 minutes play by Cameron. Then Macclessfield experienced hard lines twice in succession. The home forwards came in a body the Everton goalkeeper saving with difficulty. Aided by a strong wind, Everton scored two more goals before the interval, the score them reading Everton 3 goals, Macclesfield nothing. Result; Everton 4 goals, Macclesfield nothing.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 0 EVERTON 1
September 14 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met on the Molineux Grounds, Wolverhampton, before about 7,000 spectators. Arridge was unable, owing to injury to his ankle, to take part in the game, and this necessitated a rearrangement of the back division. Baker made his debut in League football as right back, and Storrier filled the left back position, but otherwise the team was unchanged; while the Wolves substituted Nurse for Nisholls, who partnered Tonk on the right wing. At 3-30 the teams faced as follows: - Everton: - Briggs, goal, Barker, and Storrier, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain), halfbacks, Bell, Taylor, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Tennant goal, Eccles, and Dunn backs, Griffiths, Malpass, and Owen, halfbacks, Tonks, Nurse, Beats, Wood and Black, forwards . The ground was in a very heavy state owing to recent rains, and on Stewart losing the toss the Evertonians commenced the game against the slope. After some initial exchanges by the backs Barker was twice tested by Black and gave early evidence of his ability by clearing in very effective fashion. A further attack almost resulted in the downfall of the Everton goal, as Briggs was left to clear, but he failed to gather the ball at the first attempt, and was lucky in finally getting it away. Quite a change now came over the play, for the Everton forwards led on a strong attack, and as Dunn was penalised for fouling Cameron matters looked promising. Shots came from Bell and Chadwick, and as Tennant was tamped out of goal, it looked odds on the latter's attempts taking effects, but Eccles fell back and saved, and was lucky in meeting a further shot from Cameron. Malpass and Owen eventually cleared when a further return by Bell and Taylor spelt danger, but the finishing touch, though well directed, lacked sting, and almost immediately afterwards Chadwick had a district opening from Bell, but on dallying the chance was thrown away. The Wolves forwards were unable to make headway, and following several free kicks, Barker placed the ball well ahead, and as it appeared to be going over the line Dunn called upon the custodian to leave it, but in attempting to get out of its way it glanced off his back into the net, altogether out of the reach of Tennent, play having now been in progress 17 minutes. Getting to work again, the Wolves made desperate efforts to get on level terms, but whatever fine work they did in the open they were altogether astray in final efforts. Griffiths and Black were exceptions as their attempts were not far wide of the mark, but Briggs was always about, and was splendidly covered by Storrier and Barker, the former player being very clever in heading out. The remaining play up to the interval was contested on even lines, but both sets of forwards lacked precision in shooting, and the custodians were never really severely tested. At half time the score stood Everton 1 goals, Wanderers nil. The second half opened with a heavy pressure on the Everton defence, Black in particular being the most aggressive, but like the others he failed in the final race. Shortly afterwards Beats had the ball directly in front of Briggs, and made a most feeble attempt to score. Profiting by their escapes, the Everton forwards got under weight, and Chadwick and Bell sent in shots which Tennants luckily cleared, but ground was lost on Holt being penalised and for some minutes the ball was bobbing dangerous in front of Briggs. Storrier eventually cleared, and had Bell indulged in an individual effect, instead of passing the ball when close in, he would probably have scored. Ten minutes from the close Wolves made a desperate attempt to score, but there was no defeating the defence and, retaliating it looked odds on Everton increasing the lead, as shots were sent in frequently, Tennant getting rid of three in quick succession, from Milward, Chadwick and Cameron. However nothing further was scored, and Everton won by a goal to nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 CHESTER 1
September 14 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
This first combination fixture took place at Goodison Park. The home team went away with a rush, but gradually the Cestrinas improve and forced the first corner. Then Everton raced down, and after McDonald had failed at an easy chance, Schofield shot in and Cameron landed the goal. Morgan equalising five minutes later, but owing to the fine defence of Coventry Everton failed to obtain the lead before half time. Ten minutes after the interval restart, McDonald put Everton ahead, and scoring again the home team finally winning by 3 goals to 1.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 14 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The Molineux ground, Wolverhampton is evidently becoming a happy haunting field for the Everton team, who followed up last season's brilliant victory by again returning with full points to their credit. Rain had been failing heavily through the right, and in fact it had only abated shortly before the game commenced so that one can imagine what the nature of the turf-always on the soft side under the best of conditions-would be on Saturday. Nevertheless the pace reached a fairly high standard; but to even the most ordinary it was evident but the deterrent conditions mentioned above resulted in the men being kept extended to their utmost efforts all through the game, and indeed it is doubtless weather the players have ever had more exacting demands upon them. Taking the game in a broad sense the Everton team were a shade better than their opponents, and consequently deserved to win, though at the same time it must be confessed that what minimum of back attended the game came their way and it was directly due to the favour of fortune that victory was consummated. After 17 minutes play, during which time Everton had been making most of the running the first and only goal of the match was registered, and it happened in this wise. Barker took a free kick from nearly the half way line, and as the ball was directed wide of goal, Dunn called to Tennant to let it go at the same time stooping to let it pass, but unfortunately for him and his side, he did not stoop sufficiently. And it glided off his shoulders into the net. A few minutes later Briggs mulled badly from the Wolves left, and was lucky in finally getting the ball away after twice failing to gather it, but beyond the instances the element of luck was almost an unknown quatity, and from the time the goal was scored up to the finish the merit of the respective teams were fairly put to the test. Naturally on such a day as Saturday the brunt of the work devolved upon the backs, and right well did they get through their heavy duties. Barker and Storrier played an excellent game, the kicking and placing of both being very effective, while in addition Storrier often got his head in the way of shots likely to cause trouble to Briggs; and the performance of this pair been witnessed at Goodison Park, those grumblers who have been lately airing their opinions in regard to this department of the team would have been put to complete silence. Briggs was not over worked, though whatever came his way, with the one mentioned exception, was disposed of in mastery fashion. The halfbacks were simply reveling in work, and it is questionable if ever the trio so completely checkmated the opposing van, and at the same time attended to their own forwards, with more success than they did on Saturday. Holt played one of his best games, and rarely indeed did the Wolves centre have the better of the little man, who prounced upon the ball and disposed of it with an accuracy that even the Wolves supporters could not refrain from showing their appreciation of. Boyle also got through his work with the precision and judgement that always characterise his play. and while allowing no quarter to Black and Wood he kept Taylor and Bell so well employed that the Wolves defenders were constantly on tenter backs. When the ball was on the Everton right, Stewart paled somewhat in comparison with his confreres, but it must be remembered that in their respective position Boyle and Holt were simply peerless, and therefore allowances must be made. There was no apparent weakness on the part of the skipper, but at the same time sharp passing along the ground would be turned to better account by both Chadwick and Milward, who at times had to exert themselves unneccessantly in pursuit of the ball. With the halves in the fine trim, the character of the forwards play can well be imagined, and nothing, but the sodden slippery state of the ground, coupled with the work of the Wolves last line of defence, could have prevented a more pronounced victory than one to nil. The whole line played well, the right wing especially, and gaven favorable conditions, the team that defeat Everton will have to pile on goals. The Wanderers will require a lot of moulding into shape if they are to regain their prestige and in this respect the forward line will have to make rapid advances upon last Saturday's display. The majority of their movements were defective both in aim and character, and the inside men were principally responsible for the state of affairs. Time after time they passed the ball to their respective wing men with no earthly chance of success, and their lack of judgement in not swinging the ball across wing to wing when a favourable opportunity was presented accounted in full measure for their weak display. Though the Everton halves generally held them well in check, there were, however, occasions when they swooped down on the visitors defence in most threatening fashion, but their final efforts were of a very elementary character. The right was the more speedy wing, though Black at times led on dangerous rushes, but like the rest of the van there was hesitancy at the finish, which proved fatal. The halfbacks considering the fact that they were playing behind beaten forwards did exceptionally well, and Dunn and Eccles were always safe, while Tannent though at times risky in leaving his charge, got through his work well. The game was not an exceptionally pleasant one, for apart from the moderate display consequent upon the heavy ground, there was an unnecessary amount of vigour, which frequently resulted in the adoption of shady tactics. The referee took singular to state, but the referee took little heed of them. By their victory the Evertonians hold a commanding position at the head of the league and they are the only team up to date that have secured the full possible points.
R.Boyle, the popular half back of the Everton club takes a well merited benefit tonight, when a strong team of Anglo-Scots will opposite the Everton league team. The beneficiary has not only proved worthy of supports by his skill on the field, where has individual excellence has commanded admiration from supporters and opponents alike, but his gentlemanly and courteous demeanour has combined to make him a universal favourite. Apart from this, the ex-skipper has taken special pains to ensure a high class exposition of the game, as in instanced by providing such a capable substitute as McInnes of Notts Forest to vice Hannah, of Sunderland, who is indisposed. The kick off is announced for 5-30, and it is hoped that local followers of the pastime will show their appreciation in no instanted manner of his zealous and faithfully efforts on behalf of his club and of the game in general.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
The Athletic News-Monday, September 14, 1896
By the Loiterer
Everton once again head the League table, their latest victory being obtained on foreign soil. Wine away are worth a lot, especially at the beginning of the season, when we make sure of booking points from matches played at home. The team have done some sensational things at Wolverhampton, but without being particularly striking, this last event is very creditable. Arridge could not got with the team, so Barker, the ex-soldier, filled the breach and gave away satisfaction. Now that they have got into the right groove the team will require some shifting, and next Saturday’s gate at Goodison park should be prodigious. Aston Villa are a great drawing team, and are undoubtedly clever, but they have not done anything out of the common yet, and if they win next Saturday I shall think they have made a start in this direction.
Dicky Boyle takes a benefit this evening, when Everton will oppose the Anglo-Scots, and I believe he has received assurances from the members forming this combination to appear in person, so that we hope to have a great game. Boyle is a big favourites, and his unassuming and telling work on the field has gained him many friends, and it is to be hoped they will turn up on this occasion, and give practical effort to what has been often expressed-that he will have a bumper.
Chester have occasionally done very well against the Everton Combiantion, going so far as to beat them, and on the other hand they have helped to swell the goal average to an appreciable extent. On Saturday they struck the happy medium and gave a strong team a good game. The first half especially was well contested, and the score of one goal each shows the keenness of the struggle. Everton had the pull in the second half and scored two more, and win by three goals to one. Gordon, the Irish back, played for Everton, and acquitted himself well, Jones and Coventry being about the pick of the Chester side.
The Rock Ferry team are evidently a bit too good for most of our junior elevens, as after beating two prominent Liverpool League teams by four goals each, they piled on eleven goals against the Causals. The “Rocks” are going strongly. We will see what they do against Everton Combination on Saturday.

A LUCKY WIN FOR EVERTON
The Athletic News- Monday, September 14, 1896
By the Wulfrunian
It was not the good fortune of the Wolverhampton Wanderers to have favourable weather for one of their most important home matches. The weather clerk happened to be in a very bad mood, with the result that instead of there being a £200 gate only some 6,000 spectators put in an appearance at Molineux grounds to witness the doings of the local cracks against the Goodison Park champions. It only needed fine weather to ensure a 12,000 company, but as the rain fell during the morning very heavily, it was not surprising that anticipations with regard to a really good turn-up were not realised. The Wanderers’ team was slightly altered from that which met defeat at stoke, and when the referee (Mr. Sheltor.) took command of the sides the following was found to be the constitution of the elevens;- Wanderers;- Tennant, goal; Eccles and Dunn, backs; Griffiths, Malpass, and Owen, half-backs; Tonks, Nurse, Beats, Wood, and Black, forwards.
Everton;- Briggs, goal; Barker and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
The first half was closely contested, and it was difficult to judge which ultimately would be the better team. It was apparent that the defence of the visitors was very strong, and time after time Boyle, Holt, and Stewart repelled attacks from Wood, Beats, and Nurse. The play during the first 45 was fact and the “Wolves” defence was severely taxed, Tennant, Eccles, and Dunn having a good deal more attention from the opposing vanguard than was acceptable. Twenty minutes had gone by ere the first goal was recorded, and it was without doubt a lucky score for Everton. The visiting forwards had worked the ball up nicely into goal, and Storrier, taking a free kick, landed the leather well in. the ball would probably have rolled harmlessly into the net, but it caught on Dunn’s shoulder, and Tennant had no chance to save. This proved to be the winning goal of the match. In the second half the “Wolves” played their very best, and Briggs, Barker, Storrier, and Co had all their work cut out to stave off the determined attacks of Beats, Wood, Tonks, and Black. I do not think it was policy upon the part of the Wanderers’ executive to put Nurse inside forward to Tonks. The experiment of playing a half-back in such an important position should scarcely be tried where a team of the calibre of Everton has to be encountered. It would pay the home command to invent in a first-class centre forward and then place Beats inside right. Meanwhile the local patrons of leather-chasing are in “sackcloth and ashes,” but I venture to think that few teams will eb able to claim, as Everton have done, the honour of a victory at Molineux Grounds. On the winning side, Briggs was very smart between the sticks, and it was well for Everton that he played in his best form, for the home attack was now and again decidedly warm, Tonks, Wood, and Black all shooting with force and precision. Barker was as sound as a rock, and the ex-Guardsman kicked clean and strongly all through the match. He and Storrier make a good pair, but even more credit is due to the half-backs, Boyle, Holt and Stewart. The little man played brilliantly, frequently putting a stopper on the efforts of Beats. In the forward rank, Chadwick, Milward, and Bell struck me as being the pick. There was little, if any, fault to be found with the “Wolves” defence, and it was rough luck that the only time Tennant was legitimately beaten was on the occasion of the ball glancing past him off one of his co-defenders. Eccles the recruit from Port Vale, make a good partner for Dunn, and will improve as the season progresses. Griffiths was conspicuous among the halves, and Malpass and Owen worked untiringly. The Wanderers’ vanguard, however, is in want of at least one first-class man.

EVERTON v  WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 
The Liverpool Daily Post -Monday September 14, 1896
Everton met their second League engagement of the present season by journeyed down to Wolverhampton on Saturday in order to try conclusions with the Wolves. Wood won the toss, and a minute later play started, Chadwick got hold from the kick-off, and sent to Stewart, who placed the ball outside. Some smart exchanges afterwards ensued, but Beats led the way into Everton territory, and Barker was lucky when he rushed across and cleared. Cameron looked like getting through, when he was spoiled by Malpass, and Bell, receiving a timely pass from Taylor, made great headway until he had unfortunately forced the ball out of play. Following the throw in, Wood became especially busy until brought to grass, but the Wolves continued the move, and on the ball being crossed Tonks shot on the outside of the post. Then the Everton front rank advanced in line, Cameron at the finish of a smart move being spoiled only just in time by Dunn. Directly afterwards Boyle tried his ‘prentice hand, but he was doomed to disappointment, Wood and Black dashing away on the right, and Barker at the last moment effecting a splendid save. End to end play of a scrambling nature ensued, during which Boyle was the first to show any notable feature, and after Owen had stopped an inroad on the part of Taylor, Barker was again strongly in evidence against wood, Taylor and Bell again showed their speed, Dunn saving when the former was making his portion almost safe. A weak shot from Cameron shortly afterwards followed, and then a free kick taken by Stewart was smartly fisted away by Tennant, Long kicking between Storrier and Eccles led to Nurse being pronounced offside, but the free kick yielded the Evertonians nothing the ball being simply forced right out of play. Play then continued to be mostly confined to the Wolverhampton half, lively play by Cameron and Chadwick bring nullified by a splendid footer on the part of Eccles. A couple of corners were quickly gained, but Tennant behaved splendidly, fisting out each dropping shot in the coolest possible way. The Evertonians had the worst of luck, several well-directed shots being sent to Tennant, but without success. Bell being especially prominent with a “daisy cutter.” Notwithstanding the crushing mature of the play, which was brought to bear against them, the Wolves fought hard, they were, however, unable to resist the attack, and only once did they at this period break over the half-way line, and the Everton players on coming back were granted a free kick, which was taken by Barker. The ball in its fight glanced off Dunn’s shoulder and sailed into the goal after twenty-one minutes’ play. For some minutes neither set of players could claim much advantage, the first to break away being Wood and his partner. Holt came into evidence, and then Chadwick and Cameron took up the running, the Scotchman being beaten by Malpass just as the half line was crossed. Then Everton were forced back, and a very likely opportunity was missed by Owen shooting yards wide. A brilliant bit of passing from right to left carried the ball into the Wolves’ territory, a splendid dash by Cameron being out short by Dunn, who rushed across to the assistance of his partner. A likely move on the opposite wing was spoiled by Bell running the ball out of play, and when the Everton men came up again a foul was given against Holt. The move was continued from the free kick, and at last Black got in a splendid centre, which would have converted into a goal, but for the vigilance of Briggs. A further raid was cleared by Barker, and after futile end to end play Griffiths sent in a scorching shot, which was only cleared in the nick of time by Briggs. Another rattling cross from Tonks was met by Black, who by the nearest shave missed the coveted mark, but this seemed like an expiring effort, the Everton men at once recovering their position by the aid of Holt, with the result that a hot and strong attack was made on the Wolves’ citadel. By an unlucky chance, the ball was sent outside, with the result that the leather was carried across and sent in with unerring force by Tonks, whose shot, however, was well met by Briggs. Going to the other end, Bell and Chadwick each tested the capabilities of the Wolves’ custodian, but almost immediately afterwards Harry Wood had a shie at the Everton goal, which was subjected to close investment. A couple of corners was the result, and after a hard struggle the visitors raised the seize and Cameron receiving the ball just went into the Wolves’ quarters. After a temporary check Bell took up the running, and a close race for first position ended in favour of Dunn, whose effort, however, went for nothing. Tennant was then called upon by Cameron, and following this came a sensational run by Black, whose final shot sailed over the corner of the goal. The same player followed up with a lively effort, and further pressure was brought to bear by the Wolves’ right. The Everton men packed their goal, but the persistent efforts of the homesters eventually told a tale, Wood shooting strongly into Briggs’s hands. A further attack came from the Wolves right, Tonks shooting wide over the goal. The homesters continued their strong attack, and a regular scramble ensued, Briggs first saving, and Barker effecting a splendid clearance. Bell then raced down, but his show went wide. A minute off half-time Everton again went to the front, and despite a desperate run by Black and Wood Everton were leading at half-time by 1 goal to nil. The game was resumed in the presence of about 8,000 spectators, the Evertonians at once going down and being very sharply repelled. Barker and Storrier each got in good kicks, but the game being conducted on give and take lines or some times. A great run was then made by Black, whose centre was met by Beats, the Wolves centre shooting by the side of the goal. Another shot was flashed in from Wood, and a further one came from Black, who shot well just as the whistle was sounded for offside. A brief breakaway by Everton was gallantly responded to by Tonks, who dashed back at top speed, and shot blindly, the leather travelling within an inch or two of the desired mark. More end to end play followed, Milward and Chadwick being the first to make serious headway, but the first named made a very bad shot at the end of a spirited move. Tennant staved off further attacks, shots coming from right and left. Final result; Everton 1 goal, Wolverhampton Wanderers nil. Everton; briggs, goal; Barker and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Tennant, goal; Eccles and Dunn, backs; Griffiths, Malpass, and Owen, half-backs; Tonks, Nurse, Beats, Wood, and Black, forwards.

EVERTON COMBINATION v.  CHESTER
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 14, 1896
The first home fixture on the Combination card took place on Saturday afternoon in brilliantly fine weather, Chester being the attraction. Prompt to time, Everton kicked off with the sun in their faces. For the first few minutes Everton attacked hard, and had all the best of the exchanges. The Chester backs, however, came out well, whilst Coventry in goal saved several rasping shots, Williams and Campbell testing Elm severely. After a long spell of defensive work the Cestrians got well into Everton’s quarters, and aided by a free kick well placed by Jones, Menham had to fist away a beauty from Spencer. Subsequently Everton pressed again, but failed to beat Coventry, and then by long passing Chester made ground, and forced the first corner of the game off Molyneux. Spencer placed well, but danger was cleared. Chester showed signs of improvement, and coming again Menham had to throw out a shot from Worgan. Later Everton came down in line, and McDonald appeared to have an easy chance, but the final effort lacked sting. Cameron upset Coventry, who saved under difficulties, but a moment later Schofield shot straight and true for goal, and an additional tip by Cameron clinched the matter, the first goal coming after twenty-five minutes’ play. Continuing, Everton pressed severely, but Coventry played grandly in the Chester goal, and saved beauties from McDonald and Campbell. Though manifestly overplayed, the Cestrians did not lose heart, and about five minutes after the Everton point Worgan equalised the score. Following their success, Chester played with new life, and for a time the Blues were subjected to a severe ordeal, and with Menham out of goal Everton once had a narrow squeak. At the other end Schofield and Campbell each tried Coventry who saved Chester time after time. Half-time;- Everton 1 goal, Chester 1 goal. Worgan restarted for Chester, who immediately went to the front but after Menham had made a clearance Schofield raced to the other end, and centred Meiklejohn finishing a good race by shooting just past the post. Play progressed gamely, and much in favour of Everton who, however did not make full use of their opportunities. Ten minutes after the restart McDonald put Everton ahead with a shot which travelled across the goal and just went in at the corner, Coventry making a very good attempt to save. Everton finally won by 3 goals to 1.

EVERTON 1 ANGLO-SCOTS 1
September 15 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Unfortunate for the complete success of the above attractive fixture, a couplous blast downfall fell during the commencement of the game, which had a marked effect on the attendance, and there could not have been more then about 3,000 present at any time during the game. Despite one or two changes in the mixed team, a strong eleven, one capable of giving a good exposition of the game, represented them. The men faced each other as follows: - Everton: - Menham, goal, Barker and Molyneux, backs, Goldie Holt, and Stewart, halfbacks, Williams Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Anglo-Scots trail team: - Donnelly (Liverpool), goal, McQueen (Liverpool), and Stott (Notts Forest), backs, Boyle (Everton), Cowan (Aston Villa), and Hyslop (Glasgow Rangers), halfbacks, Bell (Everton), Ross (Liverpool), Campbell (Aston Villa), Micheal (Liverpool), and McInnes (Notts Forest), forwards. Hartley opened the game on behalf of the league team, and for some minutes the play, which was of a quite order, was generally in favour of the home lot. Chadwick failed to convert a fine centre from Williams, and following the goal kick both sets of players warmed to their work. Bell and Ross created a diversion on the right, and after Holt had frequently pulled up Campbell McInnes on the left led on several dangerous rushes towards goal, but in every case Barker not him cleverly as he kicked and headed on the shots with capital judgement. However, there was no mistaking the earnetance of the Anglo-Scots forwards, and on a further return Michael drove hard into the net. A fine movement to the other end was eventually pulled up by McQueen, and directly afterwards Ross sent in a swift shot, which unfortunately, went straight to Menham, who easily cleared. Considering the mixed nature of the Scottish team, they got through their work with good success, and but for the close attentions of Holt they must have frequently scored. The forwards passed to each other with a precision that savored a most frequent acquaintance with one another's play, and their halves, and backs were always ready for all the efforts of the Everton league forwards. Eventually Williams and Taylor ran the ball down the right, and as it was swung across to Milward the latter created an easy opening for Chadwick, who much to the chargin of the crowd, failed to pounce upon it. Subsequent play up to the interval was fairly even in character, and though Micheal and Bell made clever attempts, nothing further was scored. and the teams changed ends with the score- Anglo-Scots 1 goal, Everton league nil. Little time was lost in resuming play, and the Everton team was the first to take up the attack. Holt finishing up a fine movement with an excellent shot, which Donnelly most ably attended to. Hartley led on a further attack and made an opening for Milward, but McQueen got the final attempt away, Menham was almost immediately afterwards tested by Campbell, and was nearly caught napping, as a couple of attempts were required to clear. Boyle who had all along kept Ross and Bell well employed, often had the measure of Chadwick and Milward, but eventually Donnelly had a warm time, as Chadwick and Hartley got in shots that caused no little trouble to clear. The latter put the ball into the net, but from an offside position, and how the keeper saved a few minutes later from Chadwick, who sent in a terrific rate, was simply marvellous. However, the persistent attacks of the Everton van, who had most of the play after the change of ends, ended in the downfall of the Scots goal, as Donnelly, after partially clearing another fine effort to score, was beaten by Hartley from close quarters. Though the visitors made several strong raids on the Everton defence Holt Barker, and Molyneux, was a stubborn trio of defenders and then followed a long spell of midfield play, which culminated in Chadwick putting in a magnificent screw shot, which Donnelly just reached at the corner. The closing stages of play were in favour of the leaguers, but no further scoring was forthcoming, and the game ended in a draw of 1 goal each.

EVERTON v. ANGLO-SCOTS
Liverpool Daily Post- Tuesday 15 September 1896
This match was played last evening on the Everton ground for the benefit of R. Boyle, the popular half back and late captain of the Everton club. Unfortunately, rain commenced to fall an hour or so before the advertised time to kick-off, and this materially affected the attendance, as not more than 3,000 persons were present. Still Boyle has a lot of staunch supporters and friends in the city, and it is to be hoped he has had a large sale of tickets to supplement the gate money. The game, without contributing anything exciting, was of an interesting character, some good “individual” football being shown, and the result was a draw. Everton kicked off, and play opened on fairly even terms, both ends being visited, without, however, the custodians being troubled. Hyslop checked a warm raid on the visitors’ goal, and Michael ran to the Everton half, where a corner was conceded the Anglo-Scots. The ball was well placed, and the home goal had a narrow escape, a wild shot from half back, however, relieving the tension. Some capital passing between Chadwick and Milward then caused uneasiness amongst the visitors’ backs, the inside player being at fault in his aim. The Anglo-Scots quickly returned to the attack and Michael scored the first point on their behalf with a shot which gave Menham no opportunity of stopping. Then the Everton front rank got away, a strong combined raid being rendered abortive by a fine clearance from the foot of McQueen, and a minute or so later Ross was prominent, his parting shot at the Everton goal going straight into Menham’s hands. The home left a little later effected a good run, but failed to get past McQueen. The opposing forwards continued to struggle hard for the mastery, and some good play was seen in midfield. Goldie gave to Williams and the latter, along with Taylor, found their way to within shooting range, when McQueen rushed across and kicked out. Afterwards the ball was worked down on the Scots’ right, and Michael caused Menham to again throw out. Just before half-time a free kick was given the scratch eleven a yard from the goal mouth, the ball being scrimmaged into the net, but the whistle went for the interval, and the point was not allowed. From the restart the Everton front line went away, and Holt put in a beauty for Donnelly to clear, and a minute later the Anfielder was again tested. The attack, however, did not last long, and Holt became prominent in clearing out a raid from his own quarters. He transferred to his right wing, Taylor taking up the play, and Everton again became busy in front of Donnelly, Hartley and Chadwick each in turn testing the custodian. After a while Michael cleared the ball, but it was soon brought back, Milward passed to Chadwick, the latter centring to Hartley, who puzzled Donnelly, but the point was disallowed for off-side. the Everton forwards once more took up the attack, and Donnelly was found something to do. Chadwick nearly beat him with a good shot, and for the ensuing few moments Donnelly was fighting the ball like a pugilist in training, the visiting forwards got away for a moment, after which the “Anglo-Scots” goal was again laid siege to. For some time Donnelly managed to beat the attack, but he finally succumbed to Hartley. The game after this descended into a “give-and-take” character, the respective goalkeepers for the time becoming onlookers. The result was a draw-one goal each. Teams;-
Everton.- Menham, goal; Barker and Molyneux, backs; Goldie, Holt and Stewrat, half-backs; Williams, Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Anglo-Scots.- Donnelly (Liverpool), goal; Scott (Notts Forest), and McQueen (Liverpool), backs; Hyslop (Glasgow Rangers), Cowan (Aston Villa), and Boyle (Everton), half-backs; McInnes (Notts Forest), Michael (Liverpool), Campbell (Aston Villa), Ross (Liverpool), and Bell (Everton), forwards.

CHESTER V EVERTON
September 19, 1896. Chester Observer.
As expected, the combination fixture between our titular team and the Everton Reserve ended in a victory for the champions, although they did not bring about the rout that was looked forward to. Astbury figured in the visiting team in the place of Carter, Astray having at last signed for the club. With the exception it was exactly the same team that defeated the Casuals. It was estimated there were 3,000 spectators present, and prompt to time, the homesters commenced. Coventry was called upon to save very early in the game. This he did with credit, and Spencer forced a corner, and Worgan gave the custodian a nice handful. Cameron scored for Everton after 25 minutes play, and Worgan equalised five minutes afterwards. Chester played with renewed vigour, and subjected the home defence to a trying ordeal. At half-time the score stood one goal each. Worgan restarted and the Chester went off at a good pace, but experience told, and at length McDonald put the Everton ahead with a good shot, Coventry making a very good attempt to save. The toffee boys obtained a third, and the game ended Everton 3 goals Chester 1. In Saturday's form Chester should gave Everton a warming up for the championship honours.

ASTON VILLA v EVERTON
The Liverpool daily Post- Saturday, September 19, 1896
Welford is still under censure for breach of training regulations, and will not play in the match to-day. The Aston Villa team will be;- Whitehouse, goal; Spencer and Crabtree, backs; Reynolds, James Cowan and Burns, half-backs; Athersmith, and Devey (right), Campbell (centre), Wheldon, and John Cowan (left), forwards.
Rock Ferry v Everton Combination, at Rock Ferry; 4
Rock Ferry- Moore, goal; Taylor and Struthers, backs; Grierson, Farrell, and Ball, half-backs; Salisbury, Morris, Hyslop, Hulse, and Deighton, forwards.

EVERTON 2 ASTON VILLA 3
September 21 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
A crowd of over 20,000 assembled on the Everton ground on Saturday to witness the first test between these powerful teams. Welford was left out of the Villa team owing to insubordination, but otherwise the strongest eleven at command was placed in the field, and Everton were represented by the identical team that did so well at Wolverhampton on the previous Saturday. The sides were as follows: - Everton: - Briggs, goal, Barker, and Storrier, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain), backs, Bell, Taylor, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Aston Villa: - Whitehouse, goal, Spencer, and Crabtree, backs, Reynolds, James Cowan, and Burton, halfbacks, Athersmith, Devey, Campbell, Wheldon, and John Cowan, forwards. Everton facing the garing sun, set the ball rolling, and immediately Chadwick and Taylor sent in shots at Whitehouse, the custodian only just getting up in time to fist out a clever one from the inside right. Then Crabtree cleared effectively, and Cowan placed to Devey, who threated his way through, and from a long range defeat Briggs with a rising shot, the keeper being apparently handicapped by the brilliant sun. Following this the Villians for a period of ten minutes simply carried all before them, and a climax was received as Reynold put the forward, and Campbell, also from a long range, drove hard into the net, Briggs making no attempt to save the second reverse, happening 17 minutes from the start of play. For some time play ran favorably to Everton, but weak finishes spoiled their efforts and though Whitehouse was often called upon he was never seriously tested. Meanwhile Crabtree and Spencer were particularly safe when in close quarters, and eventually Cowan raced off, and when within a few yards of Briggs shot with terrific force, but the custodian made no mistake this time, as after knocking the ball down he cleared in excellent fashion. Still Everton had a shade the better play but could not score and at the interval were two goals in arrear. The downpour made the going heavy upon resuming and after a period of pressure Stewart placed the ball nicely from a free kick against James Cowan, and Taylor headed in through, but play had no sooner recommenced than Storrier unfortunately put the ball through his own goal from Campbell. Closely following Bell got in a fine centre, and had Cameron been up a certain goal must have been recorded, as the custodian had to make a second attempt to save, but notwithstanding the ill luck, the team plodded on, and Milward with a magnificent effort defeat Reynold and Spencer, and put in one of his noted shots, which found the net. With the prospect of a draw in view the home lot played up in determined fashion but there was no getting through the now strengthened Villa defence, and Everton met the first reverse in League football by 3 goals to 2.

ROCK FERRY 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
September 21 1896.the Liverpool Mercury
At Bedford road, Rock Ferry, before 2,000 spectators. Rock Ferry attacked, and Menham twice saved from Morris, but after thirty minutes play Hulse scored for the homesters this being the state of the game at half time. On restarting Everton played strongly, but Struthers and Taylor defended well. Cameron equalised for Everton, but Hulse again gave the Ferry the lead, and Chadwick again equalised the final result being a draw of 2 goals to nil. Everton:-

EVERTON REVIEW
September 21 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
No extraneous effort is required to stir the pulse of local followers when Everton and Aston Villa take the field, for however indifferent or otherwise the teams may have been performing in other quarters one can always rely upon a healthy vigorous tussle, and an all round exposition of the game, and with such in prospect it in little to be wondered at that despite the threatening weather, the ground was so closely packed. The display on Saturday was quite in keeping with the many previous well-contested game, but how many entertained for one moment the idea of Everton conceding full point to their opponents . record breaking in every phase of sport in becoming quite common, and in football especially so. Previous on Saturday the champions had not, since the institution of the League, been able to boast of a League victory at Goodison road, and never before were they in a comparatively more hopeless condition, for their results in the campaign so far were not calculated to inspirit them with much confidence. The game was not many minutes old, however, before the characteristic dash of the Villa forwards and moreover so absolutely sound defence plainly indicated that Everton would require their best efforts. The slightest slip on the part of a player was noted with an avidity hitherto unequalled, and right from start to finish the critical unmindful of the heavy downpour, concentrated its game and meted our appreciation's if the efforts of both sides in a most sportsmanlike manner. Unfortunately for Everton, the defence suffered from the first defeat-hesitancy- and by their shortcoming in this respect the Villa forwards were unable to become complete masters of Briggs on two occasions; and as if this was not sufficient already there was bad judgement thrown in later on which resulted in a third goal, which decided the game. The two goals scored in the first half were from long range, and as Briggs made but an indifferent shape at the first and never attempted to reach the second, it was generally admitted that the glaring sun had a lot to do with his downfall especially so as both the shots were swift and rising. That they were easily obtained was patent to even the most ordinary observes, and under favourable conditions as was subsequently proved the custodian was equal so far more exacting demands. Neither Devey nor Campbell should ever have been allowed to get in the final kick which reached the mark and this want of resource on the part of Storrier and Barker in not pulling the men up greatly discounted their subsequently efforts. A lead of two to nil at half time looked promising to the Villa, but there was many to be found confident of Everton's ability to win, and matters certainly pointed in that direction, as Taylor opened the scoring account, and narrowed the chargin. Excitement was now at the highest and the hopes of Evertonians were likely to be continued when Storrier unfortunately headed the ball into his own net, and practically made Everton's task a hopeless one, as not many minutes were left for play. Still the finest finished work in the match followed this point, and the excitement, Was Milward but there was no mistaking the visible effect that the last stroke of ill fortune had no the players, and the now strengthening Villa defence thwarted every incursion. The Everton forwards had eligible more of the play than the opposing line, and in the first half this was especially so, but their final efforts generally back string and many shots were got away in simple fashion, where otherwise a goal would be forthcoming. Short passing is very pretty and effective against halves and backs under ordinary condition, but when defenders are at their best change of tactics is absolutely necessary if the desired aim is to be accomplished. It was not until well into the game that the home forwards opened out the game by swinging the ball across from wing to wing to the discomfort of the Villa defence and the change of method had a most marked effected, as Crabtree and Spencer more often in strath. The Villa van opened with short, nippy passing along the ground, but making little headway against Holt and company they quickly altered their manenrves and swung the ball about with a persistency that would manure the finest defence. They early found the shaky part of the teams, and experienced hands as they are, played on it to a nicety. Cameron had several openings from the wings, and with a little sting behind Whitehouse would have had little chance of getting many of his attempts away. Bell and Taylor frequently had the measure of Burton, but there was always the insurmountable barrier at full back. Chadwick and Milward were kept busily employed, and the finest individual efforts of the game was from the latter, who raced round Reynolds and Spencer and finished up with a magnificent shot which gave his conferees new life, as for some time afterwards they looked all over a winning team. The halfbacks were somewhat fitful, and were not the solid line they were at Wolverhampton on the previous Saturday. Athersmith and Devey often beat Stewart, but in opposing such a pair he had no light task on hands, for both were in excellent trim, and withal speedy. Boyle for the greater portion of the game played well, and frequently covered Barker when in difficulties, and Holt got through his work with credit, but still that combination one is to accustomed is seeming between the trio was not nearly so marked a feature as it generally is. With the halfbacks not in their usual invincible mood, Barker and Storrier were more frequently tested then they were at Wolverhampton, and it cannot be said that other covered himself with glory. Indecision was their weal point, and there were occasions when miskicks were thrown in that beded ill for Briggs who, though two easy goals were scored against him. On the whole got through his work with district credit. Undoubtedly the strength of the Villa lay in the rear ground, which was in the capable hands of Whitehouse, Crabtree, and Spencer and this trio were in grand trim from first to last. Reynolds also played an exceptionally fine game at half, for it was early on when occasions that Chadwick and Milward could exact quarter. James Cowan was fairly earnest in his attentions both to his forwards and to Cameron, and forward the whole line played a good swinging game, which will carry them successfully through many a stern opponent. The inside men were very resourceful when under difficulties, and considering their play, on Saturday, it was differicult to enclosure how they faced and moderately in their initial matches. The game was an exceptionally attractive one from a spectator's point of view, and the ruling of Mr. Lewis left nothing to be desired.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
The Athletic News, Monday, September 21, 1896
By the Loiterer
Across the park matters are rather gloomy. Two points have gone with a vengeance, and the outlook is not bright for Saturday next. It was not the fault of the forwards on Saturday, nor for want of trying, that the team did not at least draw level, but goals against the Villa defence require a lot of scoring. The shooting of the home forwards might have been better, but some good shots were put in only to find Whitehouse all there. Our defence suffered in comparison, the kicking being rather wild, but the first two goals of Aston Villa were obtained through the want of decisiveness of the Everton men. Up to Saturday the Everton backs have done good work, and it is just as well to reserve judgement for a little time, and give them a chance of retrieving their position. Both are young, and to anybody who saw the match it must have been patent that they lacked experience, which will come in time. The only question is will the Everton supporters have the patience to wait? I don’t think so, unless the team can obtained points during the operation, and the forwards, smart as they are, will find this a difficult matter. They were one goal behind very early on, and another was added before the interval. By right down plucky work they rubbed one off, and then had the mortification of seeing one of their own backs score for the other side. there are few sets of forwards who would buckle to as the Everton men did after this disaster, for an untoward event like this is apt to take some steam out of them.
“Dicky” Boyle’s benefit on Monday evening was hardly a success in any sense. The weather was bad, and this affected the attendance; then the Anglo-Scots team was a very mixed lot, for Liverpool supplied three extra men, and the game itself was only a poor show. The play was of a very easy character, and very little interest was taken in the proceedings. Donnelly, the Liverpool reserve goalkeeper, raised some enthusiasm by very clever saves in the second half, when Everton did the bulk of attacking, but the majority of the players in both sides never really settled down to their work, and a draw of one goal each was a fitting conclusion to the evening’s entertainment.
The more I see of them the more I am convinced that benefit matches with scratch teams, however high sounding their titles, are about played out. The grand list of names which were furnished as representing the Anglo-Scots, and the popularity of Boyle himself, only drew a “gate” if £40, which, with tickets sold, may possibly reach £70, which in itself is proof that the public fight shy of these exhibitions. If the clubs want to give their players a turn why don’t they do it in a thoroughly manner?
The players appear to have tumbled to the situation, for Bell has asked for the proceeds of the match against the Celtic on Christmas Day to form his benefit. I dare say this request will be viewed in some quarters as bordering on the audacious and precedents will have to be looked up; but, as I have urged, if these events are necessary let the club sacrifice a bit, and acknowledge the merit of a player in a right way, and nit let the public stand the racket and have very little satisfaction out of it.
It is a very difficult matter for clubs in the Combination to obtained points out of Everton, and I congratulate Rock Ferry on accomplishing the feat. Everton placed their strongest team in the field, but, if hardly so clever, the “Rock” men showed any amount of dash, and occasionally this quality puts the other in the shade. The home team were in a good humour at leading at half-time, the goal being very well got by Halse. The second half was as keenly contested as the opening portion, attacks on each goal being cleverly met, and in the end the game was a draw of two goals each.

ASTON VILLA’S FIRST WIN AT EVERTON
The Athletic News- Monday September 21, 1896
By The Free Critic
Aston Villa have not done anything startling this season, but the visit of the famous Midland team aroused a lot of interest in Liverpool, and a club like the Villa always draws. And no wonder, for their football is attractive and pretty to gaze upon, even if it does not always means goals. I went in company with one of the officials, and was taking the usual route to Goodison Park via Lime-street, but this particularly individual turned pale, and mentioned something about British Association microbes and the microscopic crustacean (a water flea) which were hanging promiscuously about the St. George’s Hall, so we patronised the L. and Y. to Kirkdale, and it is really surprising how comfortably the grounds is reached by this route. It was easy to see that we should have a mammoth crowd, and it took the energetic police-constables all their time to keep the road clear, the vehicular traffic being very heavy. But the people walked along, and, with hardly the slightest stoppage, went straight through the turnstiles, which are now turning up all they draw to the Everton club. The ground looked to be pretty full a quarter of an hour before the start, but folks still came, and were accommodated, without any apparent inconvenience, and when four o’clock arrived there would be 25,000 present, the gate receipts being close upon £800. I should like to see Goodison Park packed for once. The teams were what may be called fairly representative, the only absentees being two backs, Welford and Arridge. The Villa played Crabtree in Welford’s place, and Everton gave a trial to the ex-soldier, Barker. The names were;-
Everton; briggs, goal; Barker and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Aston Villa;- Whitehouse, goal; Crabtree and Spencer, backs; Burton, James Cowan, and Reynolds, half-backs; John Cowan, Wheldon, Campbell, Devey, and Athersmith, forwards.
Referee. Mr. J. Lewis.
When we started the sun was shining brilliantly, and the weather was genial enough for either spectators or players, but one could hardly say which side had the wind, for it was in a variable mood. Devey, however, on winning the toss, east his optics around and placed his opponents to face the sun. Everton were the first to show up, and Chadwick was early prominent, testing Whitehouse in the first few minutes. The only Grimsby man soon gave us a taste of what was to follow, and then the Villa had a turn, and from the very first two things were evident-that the Birmingham professors did not mean to adhere to their approved scientific methods, of working the ball up, and that the Everton backs were distinctly lacking in class. We had not long to wait for something tangible to happen, for, eight minutes from the start, Jack Devey got possession, dodged one of the half-backs, stood with the ball waiting for an opening, and then left fly-a splendid shot completely beating Briggs. Up to now Everton had the best of it, and they continued to hold their own, Bell and Taylor on the one wing, and Chadwick and Milward on the other, making many good attempts, but Cameron seemed to be at sea, although he made several decent shots, and Whitehouse saved in a marvellous manner more than once. He got at a shot from Chadwick which went to the extreme corner, the custodian flinging himself full length. Everton were not having it all their own way, for the speedy Villa forwards often got off, and when they did it meant danger, for they went right ahead- quite different to their usual mode of operating. Cowan had several chances given him, particularly from long crosses from Athersmith, but, although speedy, he was slow to take them. The second goal came from Campbell, and it was a fine shot, somewhat similar to Devey’s. the Everton half-backs let him through, and those immediately behind hardly appeared to realise matters, the ex-celt taking deliberate aim, and sending the ball past Briggs. Just now rain came down smartly, and very soon the players were completely drenched, whilst the portly but nimble and energetic linesman on the popular side of the ground stood it out without mackintosh in the most plucky fashion, and never murmured. The microscopic crustacean quite enjoyed himself in the deluge. With their two goals lead, Aston Villa were quite comfortable, and played a cool, confident game, Everton in the meantime making desperate efforts, but they were all of no avail, for Crabtree, Spencer, and Whitehouse were each in splendid form, although once Crabtree, through an over-indulgence in that smart trick of his- waiting for an opponent and cleverly tipping the ball part him- nearly lost a goal, for Bell took in the situation and the ball at a glance, and just missed. The Villa forwards were often dangerous, though it was by means of attacks not sustained for any length of time, though they were always apt to score. The Everton people made a determined attempt in the drenching rain immediately before the interval, the ball knocking about the Villa goal in a bewildering fashion, but they didn’t score, and the visitors crossed over with a comfortable lead of two goals. I should imagine that the ordinary microbes of Sir Joseph Lister must have been severely drowned by this time, for the players and officials presented a very cold-watery appearance as they dejectedly walked off the ground, but when the principal operations again appeared it was seen that all the Villa representatives had put on a clean suit, whilst a few of the Everton side hadn’t. But clinging garments notwithstanding, Everton played up with desperate earnestness. They scored two goals in the second half, but, strange to say, Whitehouse had not nearly so much to do as in the initial period. There was no question about it, the Everton men meant business, and there was not the slightest doubt the Villa defence intended to contest every inch of the ground. It was a most even game, and fast, too, for one moment you would see the ball careering around among the Villa backs, and the next moment it would be taken by the fleet Birmingham forwards to the immediate vicinity of Briggs. When Taylor, from a free kick tipped the ball past Whitehouse, there was a huge roar from the 24,000 out of the 25,000 present, but, just to show their pluck, the Villa went away in splendid style, and Campbell, shooting at a rather peculiar angle, Barker put the ball through his own goal, and Everton were two behind once more. It was a bit of careless play, for the shot was by no means difficult, and the Everton goalkeeper and his two backs seemed to be sort of mixed up. The Evertonians did not lose heart, but their opponents appeared to think they had got the full measure of them, and played in a very cool style. They were always dangerous once they got on the ball, and assisted by some capital half-back play, they made some most awkward raids on the Everton stronghold, Athersmith and Devey especially. Right top the finish it was exciting, and the Villa went in for saving the game, but one could hardly admire the deliberately slow manner in which Crabtree carried the ball about 20 yards for a free kick, for it was a deliberate waste of time. Just before the end Milward, who scored the second goal with a capital attempt, got the ball and sent in a magnificent shot-one of the best of the day- but it went outside just as the occupants of the stand behind the goal had got ready for a well-earned cheer. Aston Villa thus won by three goals to two, and, writing from memory, I should say this is the first win they have brought off against Everton at Everton, either on the new ground or the old. The Villa are a clever lot, and on the rather greasy turf played the proper game by partially dropping the short passing, and in going in for long crossing. As I have often said, the Villa forwards are a great treat, but their style does not always pay, and it must have been a positive luxury for the thousands off who patronised Mr. McGregor’s excursion to see Devey and Campbell score their goals from such a long range. I believe, the thousand and odd of Mr. McGregor’s party did not arrive in time to witness Devey’s feat, but that is a mere detail- they heard all about it. I should hardly consider it a first-class game, but it was a hard and exciting one, and that makes up for a lot. So far as actual pressing went Everton, perhaps, had the best of it, but that goes for little when the other side score the goals, and the first two secured by the Villa were the result of capital shots. The third was through a blunder on the part of Barker. The Everton backs are clearly not good enough. Storrier has plenty of weight, and does not forget to use it, but he is clumsy, whilst Barker has a lot to learn. The three halves are the backbone of the defence, and the trio played very well, although Holt for about ten minutes in the second half did not seen able to do anything right. The forwards are somewhat of a complication. The wings were all right, and in Taylor, I think Everton have got one of the catches of the season, but, taking them as a whole, they displayed too much wing play, and with up-to-date half-backs, wing play is not generally effective. Bell And Taylor are very clever, and so are Chadwick and Milward, but Cameron appears to be left to himself, and truth to tell, he is not an ideal centre. Aston Villa are a better balanced team, and in the rear are superior. Whitehouse knows how to keep goal, and if Crabtree is not as good at back as at half, he is clever. The last time I saw him was on the same ground when he simply played with the Scottish League right wing. Spencer played a sound game with a spice of too much gentleness, and at half-back no fault could be found, for all the three shaped well. The forwards were smart and speedy, and Jack Devey handled them well. The young were Cowan is, however, developing waiting tendencies, and Wheldon put in a lot of hard work for nothing on that account. Athersmith retains his speed, and was well fed by Devey, whilst Campbell, if not a high-class centre, is unselfish, and knows where the goalposts lie. As I have said, it was an interesting match, ding dong all the time, and I should imagine that both teams will finish up near the top of the class. But Everton ought really to attend to their back division, and at once.

ROCK FERRY v  EVERTON COMBINATION
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser- Monday, September 21, 1896
At Rock Ferry, before 2,000 spectators. Rock Ferry scored after 30 minutes play through Hulse. On resuming Cameron equalised for Everton, but Hulse gave Rock Ferry the lead, and Chadwick again equalised for Everton. Final; Rock Ferry 2, Everton Reserves 2.

EVERTON v.  ASTON VILLA
The Liverpool Daily Post- Monday, September 21, 1896
The first meeting this season between these clubs attracted an enormous attendance at Goodison Park on Saturday. Both teams received a very hearty reception on stepping into the enclosure, Everton naturally coming in for the lion’s share of the applause. At the start there would be about 20,000 present, though the number was still being largely augmented. Mr. Lewis (referee) had the sides faced punctually, and Aston Villa having won the toss, Cameron started against the wind and sun. The home left at once got to work, and Whitehouse was called upon in the very first half minute, getting the ball nicely to centre. Again the left wing, aided by Holt, became dangerous, but without tangible result, and soon afterwards Holt was to the fore with some tricky head-work, which enabled Taylor to put in a splendid shot, Whitehouse fisting away in magnificent style. Holt and his line of defence put in some more good work, notwithstanding which the Villa forwards held their way, but failed to stay long enough to be a trouble to Briggs. Barker checked Cowan in splendid fashion, and Boyle served to Bell, who raced away, but fell when he was in headlong flight. However, the move was continued, but at last Burton tipped the ball forward to Whitehouse, who was then foully charged by Cameron. After this Holt in splendid work, with the result that the Villa contingent were penned in their own quarters for some time. Burton was well beaten by Bell on more than one occasion, but all the efforts of the Everton men to score failed. The Villans were conceded a free kick, which led up to a brief onslaught on the home goal. Athersmith shooting high over the bar. The game was exceeding fast and exciting and the ball travelled with lightning-like rapidity. Another attack was made by Everton, but Whitehouse proved a most capable custodian, and saved Cameron’s shot. In a trice the game was carried to the other end by some magnificent passing, and eventually Devey came into possession, and scored with a fine long shot eight minutes from the start. This success had a wonderful effect on the visitors, who made a further raid from the centre kick, but Briggs on this occasion frustrated their efforts. Briggs saved from Athersmith and then Devey shot wide of the mark. Chadwick and Milward were then given an opportunity, and sped away in fine style, but at the last moment Spencer proved himself one too many for the Everton left wing. A further attack was made by the same wing, and then Chadwick sent over to bell, who shot hard by the side of the post. The Villa goal was again threatened from a free kick, but on this being cleared the Aston men sped away to the other end, and here the fight was hot and strong, relief only being given when Devey sent the ball wide from the a free kick. Matters were now looking somewhat ominous for Everton, as from a free kick the ball was deftly passed to Campbell who, with a simple sort of shot, banged the ball past briggs before the latter could realise that the ball was in the vicinity of his goal. This second reverse caused consternation in the Everton camp, and loud were the shouts of “Play up, Everton.” In response, the home front rank got to work, Bell sending in a beautiful centre, from which Cameron just failed to head through, Whitehouse saving and Crabtree getting the ball completely out of danger. Both sides continued to play with great dash and determination, and the battle was hot and strong. Bell ultimately received the ball at the centre line, and an advance was made, Bell, Cameron, and Taylor executing an almost perfect move. The Queen’s Park man finished with a perfect shot, which Whitehouse only got rid of by flinging himself in a prone position, but at the expense of a corner. This was cleared away by Cowan, but the Everton men at once came back and claimed another corner, which was also cleared. A free kick gave the home men an advantage of which, however, they failed to take full advantage, and in a moment play was again in close proximity to briggs, though he was not called upon, Burton being enabled to clear away the danger. Before the interval Everton made a further useless effort to reduce the margin against them, but half-time arrived with the score 2 goals to nil in favour of Aston Villa. Campbell restarted before 25,000 spectators. The game was not by any means so exciting as in the earlier stages, the ground and the ball having become exceedingly greasy. However, Everton stuck tenaciously to their opponents, and tried to reduce the margin against them. On one occasion the forwards were going great guns, and a point seemed imminent when Cameron was fouled by Cowan. A free kick was the result from which a corner was conceded, but though Chadwick placed the ball right in the teeth of the goal it could not be driven into the net, and was ultimately sent back again to the centre. Midfield work was for some time the order, after which the Villa once more made an incursion. Barker, however, caused them to beat a retreat. Then a cross from Wheldon gave the ball to Athersmith, who showed a wonderful turn of speed, and beat Stewart in a race up, but failed to travel sharp enough for the leather, which rolled out of play. Going to the other end the homesters became positively dangerous, and owing to a foul perilously near the line, a free kick was given, from which Whitehouse gave a corner, failure being again apparent. Still the home contingent kept pegging away with right good will, but notwithstanding their efforts they were eventually sent to the right about by Spencer, whose play about this time was of a very safe nature. A further free kick fell to Everton in a good position, Stewart placing the ball well into goal, and Taylor headed through, this point coming after the game had been resumed twenty-five minutes. Great jubilation greeted this good fortune on the part of the Evertonians, but the joy was very short lived, for almost immediately the Villans were swarming round Briggs, and after that custodian had once saved, the visitors came again, and in a regular melee in front of goal, Storrier had the misfortune to put the ball into his own net. With two goals to wipe out matters did not look very rosy for the Evertonians, still they did not lose heart, and often hampered the visiting defence. Shortly afterwards a warm shot came from the Everton right wing, and it proved nearly disastrous to Whitehouse, who gave a corner in saving. Had any other player been near it would have almost certainly been converted into a goal. The corner was safely cleared, but the Everton men came back and made a further fruitless attack. Matters now improved so far as Everton were concerned. Bell and Taylor worked down splendidly, the latter sending in, and Milward rushing scored Everton’s second goal amid enthusiastic cheers. After this Everton played most determinedly, and the Villa backs had a very warm time, but fortunately their defence was able to withstand the constant pressure. The remaining stages were most exciting, Milward making a determined attempt to draw level, but unfortunately no one was up to receive his pass, the ball just going the wrong side of the post, the final result being in favour of the Villa by 3 goals to 2. Teams;-
Everton.- briggs, goal; Barker and Storrier, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Aston Villa;- Whitehouse, goal; Spencer and Crabtree, backs; Burton, Cowan, and Reynolds, half-backs; Cowan, Wheldon, Campbell, Devey, and Athersmith, forwards.

H. REAY
Scottish Referee- Friday 25 September 1896
H. Reay, one of United’s old forwards, who was transferred to Everton some years ago for £25, but was rarely played in their first team, being a shining light in the Combination organisation, and who went to Southampton St. Mary’s at the beginning of this season, has soon tired of the Southerners, and returned home to Shankouse, and will play for the team of that name.

ASTON VILLA 1 EVERTON 2
September 26 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
The return League fixture between these clubs was played at Perry Bar, on Saturday as the Villians had been successful on the previous Saturday at Liverpool an immense crowd numbering over 20,000 turned out to give them welcome, much rain had fallen during the morning, but on arrival at the ground Conditions were very cheerful, and at 3-30 the players lined up in the following order: - Everton: - Briggs goal, Storrier, and Arridges, backs, Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain) halffbacks, Bell, Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, And Milward, forwards. Aston Villa: - Whitehouse, goal Welford, and Crabtree, backs, Reynolds, Cowan, and Burton. Halfbacks Athersmith, Devey, Campbell, Wheldon, and Cowan, forwards. It will be noticed that there were two changes in the Everton team from, which did duly on the previous Saturday, Arridge resuming his old position with Storrier at right back, and Hartley, vice Cameron, who is suffering from an injury to his leg. Owing to bereavement Spencer stood out of the Villa team, and Welford was included after having an enforced rest for insubordination. Everton won the toss, and had the advantage of playing down the slope, with the wind an sun behind them, but the Villa notwithstanding such powerful opposing factors quickly made headway, and Reynolds had a distinctly easy chance to score, but put the ball very wide. ‘'hands'' against James Cowan brought relief but the home forwards ably fed by their halves Reynolds in particular were constantly on the move to the Everton goal and but for the tackles by Holt, John Cowan must certainly have scored. The play was very attractive, and the spectators showed their appreciation in no halfhearted manner. After Bell had come in for load applause for a very fine run down in conjunction with Taylor, the ball was again sent back towards Briggs, James Cowan played in to Devey who took deliberate aim and defeated Briggs with a swift rising shot, 17 minutes from the start. However their lead was of but short duration for the ball was quickly at the other end, and on Stewart putting it forward it glanced off Hartley's back to Welford's toe and passed into the net. Getting to work again both sides in turn put on pressure, but the Villa had, if anything a slight pull in matters, and several times tested Briggs with excellent shot that were very ably attended it. Meanwhile Milward and Chadwick were gradually getting the better of Welford and Crabtree crossed over, and a fine sequence of passing between Chadwick Hartley and Bell ended in the last named putting the ball into the net but the offside plea was sustained. At the interval the score stood one goal each.
On resuming home side at once took up the running, and persistently being round Brigg's charge, shot after shot being sent in quick succession, only to be cleared by the Custodian in most business like fashion. The Everton halves were at this juncture playing splendidly, but still Wheldon and Campbell often gave considerable trouble, and it was not until a period of 20 minutes had elapsed that Everton defenders breathes freely. Milward eventually ran the ball down but quickly returning Devey missed on easy chance by failing to take a pass from Wheldon, and following a spell of even play Chadwick got the ball to Taylor and keeping it close raced round Welford and sent in a fine long Screw shot at the corner, out of the reach of Whitehouse. There was ten minutes left for play, and the Villa as strained every nerve, but failed at shooting owing to the visiting halves being always in close attendance. Excitement ran very high towards the close, and it was intensified in the last minute when Holt gave a further corner which however came to nothing and Everton were returned victors in a good game by 2 goals to 1.

TEAM ARRNAGEMENTS FOR THIS DAY
The Liverpool Daily Post- Saturday, September 26, 1896
Everton v Aston Villa, at Birmingham; Lime-street Station 9.45
Everton.- briggs, goal; Storrier, and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Taylor, QP Cameron, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Everton Combination v Wrexham, at Goodison Park; 4
Everton.- Menham, goal; Gordon and Molyneux, backs; Nash, Goldie, and Elliott, half-backs; Williams, Campbell, Cameron, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 7 WREXHAM 2
September 28 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams played at Everton, before a fair number of spectators. Cameron started in behalf of the home side, who at once pressure and Schofield early registered the first goal, with a fine shot. A couple followed this from Cameron and Goldie added a fourth, their being the state of efforts at half time. In the second half Pugh and Jones scored for Wrexham, but Everton added three more in rapid succession and were returned easy winners by 7 goals to 2. Everton: - Menham goal, Gordon, and Molyneux backs, Nash, Goldie, and Elliott (captain), halfbacks Williams, Campbell, Cameron, Chadwick (j), and Schofield, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 28 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
By feating Aston Villa at Perry Bar on Saturday the Everton team have thoroughly restored confidence among their supports, and we may now, as was the case last season, look forward to a succession victories. The team on Saturday was better balanced than has been the case in previous matches this season, and moreover there was a harmonious working among the players that was distinctly noticeable, and which would not be advisable for the managers of the team to disturb. Though Everton were returned victors of a really fine gam, they had none to much of the play and the good fortune which was denied them in the first meeting of the teams smiled favourabley upon them, and was a powerful factor to success. Still the Villa had all the luck that was hovering round when at Goodison Park, so that the cluns can cry quits. There was several coincidences that called up recollection of the first great battle notably in the manner by which points were scored. To begin with Devey opened the scoring in an similar manner as he did at Goodison road, and later on Welford by way of equalising his reinclusion in the team, very generally repeated Storrier's feat of the previous Saturday by placing the ball into his own net. The pace at times was forced as an unusually high pitch, and there were several periods in the game when down in marvellous fashion, notably in the second portion, and probably Briggs, Storrier and Arridge never had such a warm time as they experienced immediately after crossing over. The speedy Villa wing men swept down from them. And attacked some consequently for 20 minutes, sending in shots from all quarters, but everything came alike to Briggs, who saved and cleared in a manner that appeared to give him life to his conferees, for following this, trying period they went about they week in a thoroughly winning style, and the result of a easily brilliant effort by Chadwick clinkled the victory. The forwards play was on the whole of a most Attractive manner than the first game, and generally was the tactics adopted by both lines tinged with a simplexes that unabled one to balanced up the respective players, and there was in this department the visitors could certainly lay claim to it, as they were always dangerous when in possession and sent in deadly shots at goal. They were however, hampered by the attentions of the Everton trio, who were simply revelling in work, and had there been the slighest weakness in that department, the Perry Bar folk would have had a comfortable lead. When the full back defence is in the capable hands, Boyle Holt, and Stewart are invariably seen at their best for they are able to directed their attentions to their own particular quarter, still Arthersmith and Cowan were often in evidence along the wings, and Campbell in the centre knowns exactly how to swing the ball about to the best advantage. The two halves, Wheldon and Devey, played a telling game, and both were unfortunate in finding Briggs at his best. Of the Everton forwards the left wing put, in the more finished work, but all played with good judgement, and varied their methods at times, much to the discomforture of the home rearguard. Hartley, who was playing centre forward was very closely marked by Cowan and considering that this was his first League game this season, he came out fairly well, and will undoubtedly improve with further trails. Taylor was not so aggressive as usual, but this can be easily accounted for when it is stated that Crabtree was at his best, and both he and Bell had mainly to contest themselves with some fine work in the field and than swing the ball across to the left, a quarter in which the ex-Burnley crack had in the second half to direct his attention, as Welford was often beaten. As mentioned above the Everton halfbacks were distinctly good, and as fullback the change worked decidedly well. Arridge despite the fact that he was not thoroughly recovered from his injury tackled and cleared with good injudgement and if Storrier was not as finished in movement as his partner he was none of the less effective. His kicking was slick and his general display he fully made fatal mistake, which gave victory in the Villa at Goodison Park. Briggs share in the afternoon's proceedings was a very persistent one, as there was immerous occasions when he was called upon to clear high class shots, and it is very questionable whether a more accountable display of custodianship could have been given. He was often brought to his knees to deal with awkward shots which, were not only well saved, but forcibly cleared. Two attempts to save by Wheldon and Campbell, who had simple the keeper to beat, were got away in marvellous fashion, and the hugh crowd of 20,000 could not but admire the crowd, deliberate manner with which Briggs cast aside their chance of victory. Whitehouse was not nearly in frequently tested as in the first game, but whatever he had to do, and there were several clever shots to deal with, was always done well. Crabtree ably covered him and when a danger threatened from Chadwick and Milward, the hand of the veteran Reynold was always somewhere about the goalmouth. Summering up, it was a most attractive game from the spectators point, and the Villa were somewhat unfortunate in having more of the play and less of the scoring. One particular pleasing feated of the Everton team was the unflagging effort into their work.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
The Athletic News-Monday, September 28, 1896
By the Loiterer
What they could not do at Goodison Park the Everton team accomplished at Perry Barr, and the feat is something to be proud of, as, in addition to the reversal of form within a week, it is an event which does not happen to often at Parry Barr. I notice Everton for once were in luck’s way, and no doubt those people who have soundly abused Storrier for giving Aston Villa a goal will overlook the fact that Welford did the same for Everton on Saturday. I have no doubt that the Villa supporters will not be over pleased at Welford’s actions, and to them my remarks apply to an equal degree. It is all in the game, and the best back on the field is apt to do the same thing. By this victory, the team have once more secured the good graces of their supporters, who, though fickle, are not slow to appreciate such a feat, and estimate it at a fair value. In settling Aston Villa, the club have got rid of as stiff a job as they are likely to find, and at a cheap rate, too.
Next Saturday we shall have the two teams together, and should the weather be at all decent I anticipate a big gathering at Goodison Park. Everton are undoubtedly better goal getters, and taking a line throughout the two elevens; performances on Saturday they ought to win, but in a match of this character, where local excitement is great, the cleverer team does not always win, and what Liverpool lack in this respect is made up to a great extent by sheer hard plodding, and every inch is sure to be contested with spirit. Let us hope a good game will be the result of the meeting, and may the better team win.
Tonight Everton tackle the Scottish amateurs, Queen’s Park, at Goodison Park. The Queen’s Park are great favourites in Liverpool, and deservedly so, for they always play the game on its merits, and thought classed as friendly the play has always been as keen as any League match. The teams have met several times,, and speaking from memory, neither side have yet claimed a victory. The Everton people wanted to entertain the visitors, but it appears the Queen’s do not go in for this sort of thing now, and their rule on this point is as steadfast as their amateurism. They, however, might have broken it for once, as it is an honour which the Everton Club do not often bestow.
Our two clubs in the Combination came out all right on Saturday, and, whilst Everton are shaping for again securing the championship, Rock Ferry ate justifying their inclusion. Everton had Wrexham down, and won by the substantial total of seven goals to two. Although failing to score, Wrexham had a fair share of the game in the first half, and only capital defensive work by the home backs and Menham kept them out. The Everton team were much better in front of goal, and seldom missed an opportunity of shooting, and the ball was generally well directed.

ASTON VILLA v.  EVERTON
The Athletic News-Monday, September 28, 1896
By Brum
The unprecedented success of the Aston Villa team at Goodison Park against Everton whetted the appetite of the Birmingham public splendidly, and there must have been quite 15,000 people at Perry Barr to see the return match. Better weather has been known in September, but, although there were signs that the rain had not altogether deserted us, there was not a deal of complain of when the teams took the field. Lieut. Simpson and the linesmen were out betimes, and with military punctuality the teams lined up in the following order;-
Villa.- Whitehouse, goal; Welford and Crabtree, backs; Reynolds, James Cowan, and Burton, half-backs; Athersmith, Devey, Campbell, Wheldon, and John Cowan, forwards.
Everton.- Briggs, goal; Storrier and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart (captain), half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Referee Lieut. Simpson.
From the above it will be seen that Welford once more made his appearance in the Villa team, owing to Spencer’s enforced absence through a death in the family. Cameron was replaced by Hartley in the centre for Everton, otherwise the team was as on the previous Saturday. After playing half an hour, Welford, who commenced as right back, changed places with Crabtree, and took up his accustomed position on the left. There weas a bright sun shining full in the faces of the home side when the kick-off was made, the first aggressive movements being made by Reynolds and Burton on the extreme wings. The Villa quickly got an opening, and the ball was sent wide on the left, where offside was given against Cowan. Twice the visitors were penalised for fouling their opponents, Holt being one of the offenders, but the opening was fairly equal until Devey got a nice pass from James Cowan. Running on and outpacing the backs, who had no time to close in from the wings, the Villa captain forsook all finessing for the moment, and let fly. The ball struck the under part of the crossbar just as Briggs jumped to it, and into the net it went, while 10,000 or so hoorayed in great style. Up to this point the Villa had shown just a little better attack than the visitors, but there had been but little in it. This success served to nerve Everton to great deeds, and crowding round the Villa goal, we saw some woefully weak kicking on the part of the home side, none of the men appearing capable of getting in a hand, clean kick. The result of this buffering was that the visiting side crowded in closer and closer, until, the backs being driven right under their own goal bar, Hartley out in a softish effort, which Welford, in endeavouring to clear, curled into the net. The point itself was not a great one, truly, but the persistency of the visitors was undeniable. Soon after this the Villa backs changed. An improper throw-in by Everton gave Reynolds an opportunity to land the ball into goal, and for a time the Villa looked like getting the lead. A bit of resolute play by Storrier cleared for a time, and John Cowan gave Athersmith a beautiful chance from a cross shot, but this went by, as did another, equally easy, a moment later, Devey getting up just a trifle too much steam to utilise the opening. There was more dallying around goal by the Villa, and the interval found the scores level-one goal each. Startling afresh, it appeared for a time as if the Villa had decided upon different tactics, for they had several harmless shots at long range before the game had been started many minutes. Cheered on lustily by the crowd, they swarmed the Everton goal, and amidst great excitement the ball was scrimmaged into the net a second time, but the referee promptly disallowed the point, and left outsiders to solve the why and the wherefore as best they could. It was a melee, pure and simple, and from the writer’s view It seemed as if the defending side had been given the benefit of the doubt. Following this, Everton had another fine turn, Crabtree stopping Chadwick in the nick of time. Back to the Everton goal went the ball, the Villa men being well in line this time, but Briggs saved very smartly indeed from Campbell’s final shot. It was getting lively now, and when the Villa were penalised in their own quarters, and Stewart took the kick, we began to wonder if he would repeat his Goodison Park trick. This time, however, he popped the ball plump into goal without it being played a second time, for which relief Crabtree doubtless gave many thanks. Campbell then had a lovely chance which he missed, and at the other and Whitehouse saved finely from Chadwick. Urged on by their supporters, the Villa men then came in irresistible fashion down the field, and Briggs proved himself a tip-topper. Three corners in about as many minutes fell to the Villa, but there were kept out of harm’s way, John Cowan missing a grand opening. Then some wide passing separated the Villa backs, with the result that Chadwick got loose up the centre, and, taking a long shy, he just got the ball inside the post as the goalkeeper fell full length in trying to stop it. The last ten minutes were fought out in desperate earnestness on the Villa’s part, Wheldon putting in a couple of beautiful shots, which were kept out by Briggs, and, although it was not all over until the whistle went, it was evident the Villa had shot their bolt, and at the close the visitors had avenged their defeat of the week previous by getting home in front by two goals to one. Compared with the first meeting of the teams this season the game was not nearly so good. It is making no excuse for the Villa when it is said that Briggs had three times or more the work to do that Whitehouse had; it may fairly he said that three-fourths of the game, or nearly so, was fought out in Everton’s half, but the dash and determination we saw at Liverpool were wanting in a marked degree. Everton had by no means so many openings as the Villa, but the result shows they made better use of what fell to their share. The teams are singularly well matched, and it would be surprising if at any time, with both in form, more than a goal separated them. In goal, Briggs was decidedly safer, and so were the backs; Holt,-as grand a player and as unscrupulous as ever won high honours- retrieved what he unquestionably lost the week before, and he had a fine helpmate in the veteran Stewart, whose play it is always a pleasure to witness. Boyle was scarcely so prominent. As usual, the left wing pair did the damage, but it must be said that Hartley was a decided improvement on Cameron. It should be noted, however, that he was given many more chances than the Q.P, man. Hartley has a wee liking for snips, which is not advantageous to the side when work is wanted. The Villa show may be briefly dismissed. Except Crabtree -a giant in himself- and Reynolds, none of the others were so good as at Everton. Welford never recovered or forgave himself the error he made, and this weakened the side. neither Cowan nor Burton were quite at their best, and Whitehouse was again taken by surprise. Crabtree certainly deserves a special word of praise for an inspiriting and whole-heart display, but he could be in one place only at a time. Everton worked hard for their success, and no good sportsman will begrudge them their bit of luck.

EVERTON v ASTON VILLA
The Liverpool Daily Post -Monday September 28, 1896
With the previous week a result still fresh in the memory, there was not a very confident feeling present among the Everton party which left Lime-Street Station on Saturday morning to play the return game with Aston Villa at Perry Bar. The sun shone forth beautifully while the crowd was assembling on the Villa ground, and it was apparent the attendance would be a great one. The ground was somewhat heavy from the recent rains, but still appeared in fair condition. A band played a selection of music prior to the game commencing. Gradually the gate increased in numbers and at the start there were 20,000 present, Everton were the first to put in an appearance, and on stepping into the enclosure they were greeted with a hearty cheer, a similar though more hearty, welcome accorded the Villans when they stepped into the arena a moment later. Everton won the toss, having the advantage of wind and sun. Campbell started, and Everton by a judicious movement on the part of Chadwick were the first to be aggressive, but Reynolds removed play to neutral territory. A throw in led to an attack on the Everton goal, but Cowan when in a splendid position for shooting was pulled up for offside. The Villans were having slightly the best of matters, but a couple of throws in improved the position of Everton, Boyle supplementing this with a beautiful kick, and just as the visitors’ forwards were getting nicely under way Cowan fouled one of his opponents. A couple of free kicks were then taken by the Villans, but nothing tangible accrued, the ball being driven over the line. Hartley then got splendidly away down the centre, and passed over to the left wing, but unfortunately the ball went outside before Milward could reach it. A free kick was now conceded to Everton in a splendid position. Stewart shot in, but Reynolds effected a marvellous clearance. A further free kick to Everton came to nought, and following this Aston Villa made an incursion into Everton quarters, but wild kicking resulted in the ball being sent over the line. Play was now in Everton’s favour, but the defence of the Villans was not seriously troubled. After a brief attack by the Birmingham pets, a free kick to Everton placed them in aggressive attitude, but the defence was not to be beaten. Crabtree displayed splendid tactics, and an attack on the Everton citadel followed, Cowan sending a good shot, which Briggs, however, repulsed. Then Everton from a free kick almost brought about the downfall of the home goal. Crabtree, however, was again the salvation of his side, and from his clearance the Villa left dashed away, Wheldon putting in a stinging shot, and Briggs just succeeded in getting the ball. After this Everton pressed, Welford conceding a corner, but this was sent harmlessly behind. Hartley was then given a splendid opening; but just as he was preparing to shoot Welford rushed up and deprived him of an almost certain goal. Everton came again, the extreme wing men displaying true form, but they failed in their attempts to lower the Villa colours. For a while, the play was fairly even, but at length the Villans assumed the upper hand, and Reynolds passing to Devey, the latter, with a well-judged shot, succeeded in scoring after seventeen minutes’ play, the ball, striking the cross-bar and glancing into the net. This reverse roused up the Evertonians, who made a determined raid on the Villa goal, but though Milward made a gallant effort to drew level, his shot went fully a yard outside. Still Everton kept up the attack, and after Chadwick had taken a corner, Hartley shot in and Welford made a vain effort to get the ball away, thus putting Everton level. Both sides now went at it in high ding dong, and as a result of pretty tactics by Bell and Chadwick, Milward was enabled to place the ball beautifully into goal, but Whitehouse by an almost superhuman effort just succeeded in turning it outside the post. From the ensuing corner Bell sent in a lovely dropping shot, and again Whitehouse had to put forth his best efforts to prevented a score. After a further futile attempt by Chadwick, a couple of free kicks were conceded the Villans, from the second of which Crabtree, who had crossed over to the right back position, planted the ball right into goal, Briggs effecting a splendid save. Nothing further had happened when the whistle blew for a cessation of hostilities, the score then reading 1 goal each. Hartley resumed operations, the Villans early on becoming aggressive, but Boyle repulsed them and afterwards Briggs saved from Cowan. A free kick ensued to the Birmingham club, Milward making a splendid clearance. After this Arridge was to the fore in a similar service to his side. the game as not by any means so pretty from a spectator’s point of view as that played at Everton last week. Still it proved most interesting, and both sides were thoroughly triers. After further pressure by the Villans, Everton attacked, but all to no purpose, the home backs defending splendidly. Then a terrific onslaught was made on the Everton goal, the ball and custodian being rushed through but a previous informality having occurred the point was disallowed much to the vexation of the crowd. The Villans, however, still kept up a perfect fusillade on the Everton goal, which was greatly endangered as a result of some excellent exchanges among the home forwards, who now began to display some of their well-known tactics. Wheldon and Cowan each put in stinging shots, which were equally well responded to. An exciting scrimmage right on the Everton goal was brought about by a free kick within a few yards from the line, Arridge, by a magnificent effort, removing the game to less dangerous quarters. The Villans had almost entirely monopolised the game since the interval, but now Everton asserted themselves, shots being sent in from right and left, but without result, as both backs and custodian on the home side were in splendid trim. A further magnificent effort was then made by the Birmingham men, Briggs saving in a marvellous manner from John Cowan, and effecting a further grand clearance from Campbell a second later. The Villans had unquestionably much the best of matters at this period, Everton scarcely ever getting beyond the dividing line, but unfortunately their defence, unlike last week, was simply impenetrable, Storrier on one occasion pulling up Wheldon when a goal seemed certain. At length, the visitors broke away, and Milward being fouled a free kick followed, Stewart sending into the net without the ball touching a second player. For several minutes after this the game was even and confined to the centre, both sides seeming somewhat exhausted after their hard work. Everton however, quickly began to attack, Milward giving to Chadwick, who put in a grand shot. Whitehouse responded beautifully. Taylor shot high over the bar. Then the Villans had a turn of pressure, forcing a couple of corners, from which the home team failed to add to their score. Midfield exchanges were succeeded by severe pressure on the part of the Villans. Storrier performing yeoman service for his side. at length relief came, and Everton dashed along the right wing, Taylor passing to Chadwick, who with a splendid screw shot banged the ball into the net near the corner. Wheldon made a determined effort to draw level, Briggs again clearing cleverly, and throughout the visiting custodian played magnificently. When the whistle sounded Everton were winners of a hard game by 2 goals to 1. Teams.-
Everton; briggs, goal; Storrier, and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
Aston Villa.- Whitehouse, goal; Crabtree and Welford, backs; Burton, Cowan, and Reynolds, half-backs; Cowan, Wheldon, Campbell, Devey, and Athersmith, forwards.

EVERTON 3 QUEENS PARK 3
September 29 1896. The Liverpool Mercury
Some four years have elapsed sine the Queen's Park team opposed Everton, and it was generally expected that if any ‘'friendly'' would success in drawing Liverpool crowds, such would be forthcoming on the occasions of the visit of the famous Scotch amateurs. But such was not the case for there were not more than 2,000 present at the start in give them welcome, and the lack of support is much to be regretted, for as subsequently ever turned out the quality of the play merited better support. Everton relied upon a somewhat mixed team, but the Queen's were strongly represented, the sides lining u as follows: - Everton: - Menham goal, Barker, and Robertson, backs, Goldie, Boyle, and Stewart, (captain), halfbacks, Williams, Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards. Queen's Park: - Yulle, goal, Ritchie, and Smith, backs, Stewart, Gillespie, and Allison, halfbacks, Crookston, Gibbons, McColl, Cameron (Everton), and Lambie, forwards. Everton opened the play, which during the first ten minutes ran all in favour of the visitors, who were evidently intent upon keeping the home side extended to their best efforts. Cameron who was playing with his old club, tested Menham with a long shot, and later had ill luck in seeing a second rebound from the upright with Barker in readiness to clear. The passing of the Scottish combination was very pretty, and exceedingly well directed, but eventually the home van warmed to their work, and Gillespie luckily charged lighting shot from Hartley. The stay in the Scotch quarters, however, was but short, as McColl fastened on the ball, and racing half the length of the field sent in a clinking shot which, met Barker in its course and Cameron who had closely followed up, unfortunately put it behind. Still keeping up a pressure, Menham only partially saved a shot from Crookton, and following a scrimmage in goal, the ball was put into the net. Play had no sooner been resumed than McColl rounded Robertson, and registered a second goal, this being the signal for increased efforts of the Evertonians, who from this point set about their work in most business like fashion. Hartley just missed scoring, and both Taylor and Schofield were also near the mark. Keeping up the pressure Gibbon was penalised for fouling Holt, and as Stewart placed nicely. Taylor met the return from one of the Queen's backs and cleverly reduced the margin. And a few minutes later Holt initiated a beautiful movement between Chadwick, Hartley, and Schofield, with the result that the last named scored with a magnificent low shot, which gave the Queen's goalkeeper little chance to save. The visitors went of with a rush after this reverse but found scoring difficult, and at the interval the sides were on equal terms with 2 goals each. McColl restarting for Queen's Park, and after a few exchanges in the centre, Hartley ran down, but was charged off the ball. Holt hereabout was a conspicuous figure and justified a couple of attacks on the visitor's goal, there however, proving futile. A moment later the Scotch forwards raced away, and Cameron sent in a beautiful shot, which Menham tipped over the bar, the ball from the resulting corner, being sent over the line. Following this McColl put in a magnificent run, threading his way between the halves and round Barker but unfortunately Lambie lay offside. A movement along the Everton right was finely checked by Allison, but the Everton Stewart got possession, and placed the ball nicely to Chadwick, who sent in a magnificent shot, which called for Yullie's best effort to clear. Play was now decidently in favour of Everton, but the forwards were generally wide of the mark, and whenever attempts were at all likely to prove disasterous the backs, Smith and Ritchie, generally managed to clear. At length Hartley put in a beauty from long range and the custodian brought off a magnificent save at the expense of a corner, which was easily cleared. The pace was now forced to a tremendous pitch, and was more in keeping with the nature of a stern League battle than the ordinary run of friendles. Eventually the Queen's Park forwards got away in pretty combination-a movement which terminated by Cameron putting through after Menham had only feebly saved from Gibbon. Atmost immediately following Schofield look like equalising, but a grand save was effected only to find the Everton forwards again clustering round the Scotch defence, Chadwick was fouled and Stewart taking the free kick, placed the ball well in, and it gilded from a player into the net. With the score again level, the teams attacked to in most determined fashion and the exchanges being favorable to Everton further pressure caused on the Scottish defences. Three corners were awarded the home lot in rapided succession but all were got safely away, and at the other end, Menham almost cost his side a goal by a weak clearance from Lambie. The light was falling badly, and the movements of the players were followed with difficulty, but Chadwick skimmed the posy with a fast shot, time being called with the score 3 goals each.

EVERTON v QUEEN’S PARK
The Liverpool Daily Post- Tuesday, September 29, 1896
After an interval of several years, Queen’s Park renewed their acquaintance last evening with the Liverpool football public. The weather was very stormy, and this no doubt kept large crowds from visiting Goodison Park, the number of spectators not being more than 2,000 or 3,000. A capital game, which deserved better support, ended in a draw of 3 goals each. Everton started play, and it at once became apparent that the game was going to be a keenly-contested one. Queen’s Park went off at a tremendous pace, Cameron evidently bent upon showing the spectators that he knows where the net lies. Early on he put in a couple of splendid shots, from which scores were only prevented as a result of the exceedingly smart defence of Menham and Barker. Then Everton had a turn of attack, Chadwick putting in a brilliant shot, which just topped the bar. The amateurs, however, played with splendid dash, their passing being a real treat, and after Menham had again repulsed a couple of attempts on the part of Cameron, McColl drove the ball into the net. Everton claimed for previous offside, but without avail. Resuming from the centre, the Park made a further raid, some excellent forward work resulting in McColl again defeating Menham. Then Everton were conceded a couple of corners, but these proved of no advantage, Ritchie and Smith proving equal to all emergencies, and several times repulsing their opponents. The Park showed more dash than the Evertonians, who could not get going well at all, whilst their combination, suffered in comparison with that of the amateurs. The Everton men at length, however, asserted themselves, and pressed their antagonists for a long time on their line, and after repeated failures succeeded at last in reducing the margin against them, Taylor banging the ball into the net quite out of Yullie’s reach. Holt twice successfully appealed for fouls, but in neither instance were the free kicks utilised to advantage. Still Everton held the upper hand, however, and from a corner the home side had a splendid chance of drawing level, but though Chadwick placed the ball well no one was in a position to second his efforts, and Smith got the ball away. The game was now very fast, both teams working with a will, the Park if anything showing superior tactics, being both faster and combining better, but they found in the Everton halves a sturdy trio of defenders. The Park, as a consequence of some pretty passing, troubled the Everton defence somewhat severely and on one occasion Menham magnificently cleared from Cameron. Holt then served up to his forwards, Hartley passing over to Chadwick, the latter transferring to Schofield, who drew level with a beautiful shot, the ball entering the net near the corner, giving Yullie no possible chance of saving. With the teams now on a level they both made strenuous efforts to gain the mastery, Hartley making a good but unsuccessful attempt to take the lead. For a while play hovered about the centre line, after which Everton treated the spectators to some really splendid passing, but without causing any uneasiness to the visitors’ defence. Before the interval, the Park made a further effort to get the lead, but without result, and at half time the score was 2 goals each. For some time after restarting the home team kept their opponents in check, but the Park goal was never in any danger. The visiting forwards then cleared, and Cameron shot in wide to Menham. The goal kick was carried down field, and Everton got an unproductive corner. The ball kept rapidly moving up and down the field without causing any anxiety to the respective goalkeepers. The home right then relived the game from monotony by a fine run. Hartley had hard lines, but the ball was crossed over to Chadwick, who slung in with his left foot in grand style, for Yullie to bring off a smart save. Everton kept up their pressure, the forwards hanging round the Park goal without any tangible result. Schofield brushed Yullie’s charge with a screw shot, and then Taylor all but caused it downfall. The venue next changed to the Everton goal, the attack being brisk, short, and conclusive. McColl passed to Gibbons, who shot in. Menham partly saved, but bungled his pick-up, and Cameron stepped up and scored. From the kick off again Everton got down, and Schofield gave Yullie a good handful. Directly after the ball was fouled in the Park quarter Stewart took a free kick, and the ball touched one of the visitors and equalised for Everton. The homesters now forced their opponents back, and kept pegging away at the goal. A couple of corners were cleared away without mishap, and then the Park right rushed the ball down, a corner being conceded. This also harmless and directly after Williams had a run all on his own, but was pulled up before he could get to shooting distance. The game soon after finished, the result being a draw of 3 goals each. Teams;-
Everton.- Menham, goal; Barker and Robertson, backs; Goldie, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Williams, Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, and Schofield, forwards.
Queen’s Park.- Yullie, goal; Smith and Ritchie, backs; Allison, Gillespie, and Stewart, half-backs; Lambie, Cameron, McCoil, Gibbons, and Crookstown, forwards.

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
The Liverpool Daily Post- Wednesday, September 30, 1896
The first of the League matches between Everton and Liverpool will take place at Goodison Park on Saturday next; kick-off 4. The following team has been selected to represent.
Everton; Briggs, goal; Storrier and Arridge, backs; Boyle, Holt, and Stewart, half-backs; Bell, Taylor, Hartley, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.