NOVEMBER 1898
EVERTON 2 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 0 (Game 283)
November 7 1898 The Liverpool Mercury
The above teams met for the first time this season at Goodison Park, before an attendance numbering about 15,000. Both sides were strongly represented, as will be observed from the subjoined list: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer (w), and Molyneux, backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Taylor (captain), halfbacks, Bell, Proudfoot, Oldham, Kirwan, and Gee, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday: - Massey, goal, Earp, and Langley, backs, Ferrier, Ruddlesden, and Layton, halfbacks, Dryburgh, Davies, Kaye, Hemmingfield, and Spikesley, forwards. Referee Mr.Scragg. Sheffield were the first to assume the aggressive , a movement on the left ended in Spikesley shooting wide but Everton retaliated and Kirwan's shot was finely charge down, whilst clever centres from Bell were narrowly cleared. Everton attacked in grand style, but the Blades defence acted admirably, and eventually the visiting forwards broke away and gained a corner, which proved futile. The home front rank then bore down in a body, and a sharp pass from the right wing was badly mulled by two of three men in succession when right in front, thus nullifying a splendid chance of scoring. The play was greatly in favour of Everton, and the visitors attack rested almost solely on the left wing, where Spikesley and Hemmingfield put in some splendid work, only, however to find the opposition of Wolstenholmes and Balmer too much for them. Kirwan had a clear course presented owing to Earp missing his kick, but lacked speed, and Langley rushed across and cleared. On the home left Taylor repeatedly checked the opposing wing, and placing to Gee, the latter got well away, but Ferrier cleverly repulsed the pair, only, however, to find the outside man regain possession, and pass to Kirwan who with a fine opening sent over the bar. Following the kick out. Hemmingfield got clear and with an open goal made a wretched attempt to score, the ball travelling slowly to Muir, who easily kicked away. Everton than attacked with more vigour after a spell of slow play and from one of Bell's clever centres a score should have easily resulted, but the men near goal were too slow to take advantage. Earp and Langley defended very finely, and Ruddlesden also showed exceptional cleverness, and just before the interval a smart attack by the visitors right wing was badly concluded and at half time arrived with a clean sheet. On resuming the Blades again initiated the attack, but as before they were quickly repelled, and a tremendous fusillade on their goal followed, Taylor sending in a brilliant shot which Massey drove out, and Gee shooting in again, struck the crossbar, after which the visitors goal had a narrow escape from the ensuing melee. At length the ball was transferred to the home right, and Proudfoot stering the ball well down, sent across to Kirwan who scored the first goal with a swinging shot, all the visitors appeals for offside being negatived by the referee. A couple of free kicks were beautifully placed by Langley, each of which was with difficulty cleared, but Everton after some midfield play, again swarmed around Massey, who returned a stinger from the right, but Boyle dropped in a beautiful high shot which the custodian caught, but holding the ball for a second proved his downfall for Oldham unceremoniously bundled ball and Keeper into the net. The Blades made headway, but finished badly, and some neat efforts were rendered useless by a wretchedly weak pass, when near goal. Everton were more dangerous and Massey luckily intercepted another shot from Kirwan. Again was Spikesley prominent in defeating Balmer and Wolstenholmes, but racing close in he was splendidly robbed by Molyneux and the home forwards regaining possession. Proudfoot became dangerous, and with a fast shot just missed scoring. Clever work by Wolstenholmes was duly recognised, and Proudfoot again dashing in sent in a tremendous shot, which was splendidly cleared by Massey. For the second time in the game did Hemmingfield receive a clear course, and from close range he drove the ball at a tremendous rate into goal, but Muir saved at gallantly as his vis-a-vis had just previously done Everton had by far the advantage up to the close, and when the whistle blew were victorious by 2 goals to nil.
TRANMERE ROVERS 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
November 7 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
At Tranmere, before a big crowd. In the first half Lloyd scored for Rovers, with a grand shot, and in the second half Clarke equalised for Everton. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Eccles, and Creely, backs, Turner (e), Owen, and Elliott, halfbacks, Marquis, Bright, Clarke, Barlow, and Schofield, forwards. (Placed 1 st , game 8, Won 6, Lost 0, Draw 2, For 37, Against 4. Points 14)
EVERTON REVIEW
November 7 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team on Saturday added another to their already substantial list of Victoria, and now occupies second position to Aston Villa in the competitive table. Furthermore, they are in the unique position of having fewer goals recorded against them than any other club in their division, which testifies forcibly to the quality of their defence, and as matters are progessing, there is every reason to hope for even better results than have as yet come to hand. The managers of the club have now at command the services of those players who were early in the injured list, and prospective changes will undoubtedly be in the direction of strengthening the side. The team to a man went about their work on Saturday in a thoroughly businesslike fashion, though there was not that excellent finish of movement that characterised the game at Blackburn the previous week. Much of this was due to this was due to the comparatively limited resource on the left wing, and it is evident that Gee has hot thoroughly recovered from the strain incurred in the Liverpool match. Otherwise the line gave c capital account of themselves their crisp passes and go-head tactics in the second half of the game being features that were frequently admired. The earlier proceedings were not marked by any exceptional merit, for during the first 45 minutes the quality of play, though always favourable to Everton never scared above the average standard, and like other contests in which the Evertonians have played a prominent part this season, it was left for the closing stages to decide their undoubted superiority. The wearing down process was manifest early in the second half, and the only surprise was that the ‘'Blades'' did not suffer a more pronounced defeat. It was during this period that the full resources of the visitors were thoroughly draws out so accurate were the movements and a deadly the attack of the opposing van. Under such conditions one can imagine and could then appreciate the fast, open play brimful of interesting passages which naturally favoured the team that was the better fitted to stay the course. The Evertonians undoubtedly were the fresher set at the close of the game, and none could testify more forcibly to this fact than the Wednesday defenders who doubtless hailed the cessation of hostilities with a sigh of relief. Quite a different complexion might have been put upon the game had the Sheffield forwards been at all proficient in the art of shooting. In this respect they were the most unskillful lot that the home side have, as yet encountered, and if Saturday's display was an advantage sample of their efforts, it is small wonder that they have up to date failed to score a goal in their away from home matches. Back play compared most favorably, and there were two of the smartest saves made by the respective custodians, one in quick succession to the other, that have been executed on the Everton ground for many a long season. Coming to the players Proudfoot and Bell, especially in the second portion, formed an admirable right wing the former by his trickness and deadly shooting, and the latter by smart centring supplemented by plenty of dash, frequently calling for rounds of applause from the crowd. The second goal was the outcome of closely following up, as Massey was caught napping and was bundled with the ball into the net before he could take in the situation. Oldham was carefully watched by the opposing centre half, and came in for some rough treatment from Langley, who would have had no more than his deserts had the referee excused his prerogative to the full. Still, the centre put in some capital work and in conjunction with Kirwan, who unfortunately did not receive such assistance from gee, much progress was made by inside play. The ex-Southport player was always neat and accurate, and one of his shots, which, was most forcibly directed, all but upset Massey's equilibrium. Of the halves, none did better work than Taylor, who was always ready to assist his backs, in addition to providing openings for those in front. and Balmer and Molyneux and Muir contributed thoroughly sound work in their respective positions. Of the visiting forwards the left wing pair, Spikesley and Henningfield, and Dryburgh on the outside right were the most successful, but it was only at odd interval that any were at all deadly in front of goal. Ruddlesdin and Ferrier were the best of the halves and, while the backs did well much of their other was good play was tarnished by Langley frequently resorting to shady tactics. Massey should have cleared the second goal but other wise his performance was creditable as several shows, notably from Proudfoot and Kirwan were kept, out with splendid judgement. To-day Everton visit West Bromwich Albion, who so far this season have set them they most difficult task while on Friday the team make the journey to Sunderland, and will do exceptionally well if they steer clear of defeat.
WEST BROMWICH ALBION 3 EVERTON 0 (Game 284)
November 8 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
Yesterday morning the Everton team made the journey to West Bromwich to engage with the Albion in the return League fixture of the season. The first engagement was decided at Goodison Park on the 22 nd of last month, and resulted in a narrow victory for the Evertonians by one goal to nil, and that contest was generally voted the keenest of the series in which the home club has taken part so far in the tournament. The Everton attacking line was again reorganised the services of Clark and Barlow being called into requisition, so that the prospect of the Blues annexing points were not so promising as in recent games. The home side was at its full strength, and as the day was recognised as a local holiday there was a capital attendance when the teams took the field, as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer (w), and Molyneux, backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle and Taylor (captain), halfbacks, Bell Proudfoot Clarke, Kirwan, and Barlow, forwards. West Bromwich Albion: - Readers, goal, Cave and Williams, backs, Perry, Jones, and Barnes halfbacks, Bassett, McKenzie, Brett, Richards, and Garfield, forwards. Brett commenced operations for the Albion, who played facing the sun. After a period of midfield play the Albions took up the attack but Richards failed to utilise a good opening. A clever bit of work by Bell followed, but the Albion defence was exceedingly sound, and the visitors were again placed upon the defensive, Muir throwing out a shot from Bassett. From a free kick taken by Cave the ball was headed by Jones underneath the Everton crossbar just as the whistle was blown for some infringement of the rules. The assault was continued, giving the Everton defence a lot of trouble, and ten minutes from the start Richards scored the first goal as the result of some exciting play from a corner kick. After this Everton attacked strongly, Reader bringing off some fines saves, and on one occasion Bell had a grand chance of equalising the score, being within a few yards of the goalmouth. He however, dallied too long, and Williams seized the opportunity of clearing. In the course of another attack Brett was injured and left the field but the Albion still maintained the upper hand, and from a corner Richards made a splendid attempt to again lower the Everton colours. At the other end Reader cleared from Bell and the next item of interest, was a beautiful shot from Basett, which Muir saved in fine style. Brett now returned and the Albion continuing to have the best of the game. Garfield succeeded in passing the backs, but fortunately for the visitor's shot over the crossbar. A hugh kick from Balmer which caused Reader to concede a corner proved if no advantage to the visitors and then Bassett electrified the spectators by a grand run and centre from which Richards obtained the Albion's second goal, Barely had play been resumed than Bassett again prominent with one of his clever runs, Molyneux fell as he was about to tackle the Albion outside's right and Bassett centred the ball Brett who steadying himself put on a third with a fast shot, which Muir just touched as it passed into the net. The Albion had the better of the play up to the interval but with an improvement in the Everton defence; they were unable to add to their score. Half time West Bromwich 3 goals; Evrton nil. Early in the second half Everton made an onslaught on the Albion goal, and forced a corner, which was not turned to account. For a quarter of an hour the Vistors had much the best of the game, and Reader and his backs had all their work cut out to maintain the substantial lead which the Albion had gained in the first half. Bell tested Reader with a fine long shot, and another aggressive movement on the part of the Evertonians ended in Proudfoot heading a few inches the wrong side of the upright. Garfield brough Muir to his knees with a swift low shot, which the Everton custodian negotiated with the utmost difficulty. Both goalkeepers were severely tested and after Bell and Kirwan had both made demands upon Reader, Brett finely, Garfield and Richards each missing a grand opportunity of increasing the Albion lead. Kirwan forced his way past both backs but shot too high, while Taylor made two capital attempts to reduce the margin against his side. In the closing stages Everton roused themselves for a vigorous effort, which proved unavailing, and they were beaten by 3 goals to nil.
After the match the Everton party met at the Sandwell Hotel, where an interesting presentation had been arranged. For some years pass the Everton Club have played a match at West Bromwich for the benefit of the Local charities and the committee recognised the kindly services which Mr..Molyneux, the Everton secretary, had rendered in this direction by representing him with a handsome silver mounted malacca cane, which been a suitable inscription. The presentation was made by Mr.H.Keyes and Mr.Frank Heaven, who paid a tribute not only to Mr. Molyneux's efforts, but also to the readiness with which the Everton Club had always assisted the charities of West Bromwich. Mr. Molyneux, in acknowledging the grit, said it was always a pleasure to all associated with the Everton Club to do whatever they could to assist charitable institutions.
SUNDERLAND 2 EVERTON 1 (Game 285)
November 14 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team made the journey to Sunderland on Friday in view of what was generally admitted to be a stern struggle against the Wearsiders in the first of the season's League contests. The Evertonians were represented as on the previous Saturday when they accounted for Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park, but Sunderland were without Leslie and Wilson and Bach and Morgan reappeared in the team. The weather on Saturday morning was dull and threatening but this did not interfere with the attraction as at the start of the game the splendidly appointed enclosure at Roker park represented a most animated appearance there being close upon 20,000 on the ground when the teams took up their positions as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer (w) and Molyneux backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle and Taylor (captain) halfbacks, Bell, Proudfoot Oldham Kirwan and Gee forwards. Sunderland: - Doig, goal, Bach, and McNeill, backs Ferguson, Mcallister, and Dunlop halfbacks, Crawford, Morgan, Raisebeck, McLatchie, and Saxton, forwards. Oldham commenced operations for Everton, but the home side were the first to make a dangerous incursion, and after three minutes play the ball was passed over to the right wing when Crawford pointed upon it, and with a shot quite out of Muir's reach opened the scoring account. The point was appealed against on the ground of offside play, and reasonably so, but the referee would not entertain the claim, and pointed to the cente of the field. Thus early encouraged the Sunderland forwards put plenty of dash into their work, and were frequently seen among the visitors defenders. The home halves kept the ball well in front, and after several raids had been made on Muir's charge Morgan shot in. The ball struck the bar, and on its rebound the custodian fisted away, but the Wearsiders claimed that the keeper and fisted the ball out after it had been inside the net, and the referee who was very indecisive on appealing to the linesmen awarded this point also. Two goals behind after a quarter of an hour's play was a serious task for Everton to face but not disheartened they set about their work in determined fashion, and quickly had a full measure of the play. Doig was on more than one occasion lucky in keeping out shots from the right wing, and the result of a smart ran down by gee and Kirwan fully brought out the keepers best efforts for the movement was completed with a magnificent shot from Oldham, which only a custodian with the nature of Doig could have saved. Boyle next made attempts to score, but the interval arrived without any change Sunderland then leading by 2 goals to nil. On resuming the Wearsiders were the first to become dangerous, Saxton being in good position for shooting during the first minutes, but he shot badly and from the goal kick the Evertonians worked their way to the other end, where Doig received a warm shot from Oldham. A capital attempt from Gee followed, but only a fruitless corner resulted the custodian a second directly afterwards. The game was now distinctly in favour of Everton, and was most severely contested, but from a sudden spurt Raisebeck got though, and give Muir a difficult shot to deal with. The save was accompanied in clever fashion, and in close following, Kirwan had a fine opening, which badly utilised. A further return ended in several attempt to get the ball past Doig and this was eventually accommodate by Bell from shot range, after the custodian had twice partially cleared. Later, there was an appeal for fisting the ball within the penalty kick but the referee was not upon the scene, and the claim like the proceeding close, was ignored. Pressure with put few exceptions was kept up fiercely by the Evertonians to the end, but nothing further was scored, and Sunderland won a hard and fast game by 2 to 1.
EVERTON RESERVES 4 CHESTER 0
November 14 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
At Liverpool, before 3,000 spectators. Chester played well at the start, but without success. Hughes scored twice for Everton with beautiful shots. Interval Everton 2 goals Chester nil. Resuming, the game was even for a time, but Everton scored again through Clarke,. Kitchen then made a couple of marvelous saves from the Chester forwards. Clarke again scored for Everton . Final scored Everton 4 goals, Chester nil. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Eccles, and Crelley, backs, Turner (e), Stringfellow, and Hughes, halfbacks, Marquis, Bright, Clarke, Barlow, and Schofield forwards . (Placed 1 st Game 9, Won 7 Lost 0, Draw 2, For 41, Against 4 Points 16)
EVERTON REVIEW
Novemner 14 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
In all their League experience Everton has never yet succeeded to winning at Sunderland, and the result's game was no exception to the rule. At anyrate they had one satisfaction, innsuch as they can lay claim to the credit of being the first team to score against the Wearsiders on their splendidly appointed enclosure of the Roker Park. The game certainly bore, out the expectations of the football enthusiasms in and around Sunderland, and the spectators who numbered close upon 20,000, had the pleasure of witnessing what was admitted to be the hardest fight which has been seen in the northern town this season. It was undoubtedly due to the dash and concerted action which characterized their movements during the first 2o minutes of the game that Sunderland were able to claim a victory. Both the goals were obtained during this period. On each occasions the Everton players confidently appealed against the legitimacy of the points the first on the ground of offside, and the second that Muir had cleared before the ball had gone under the bar. With regard to the second, the referee was not in a position favorable for forming an accurate judgement, but after consulting the linesman he decided that the defenders should not have the benefit of the doubt. Under such conditions at so early a stage of the proceedings one would not be suprissed at any team becoming thoroughly disorganised; but as a matter of fact, the Evertonians to a man seemed to fully realise the seriousness of the situation. As the game progessed they gave an exhibition which extorted the frequent encomiums of the spectators. Once again the splendid staying powers of the Evertonians were in evidence, and so strongly were they going at the finish that the chances were that with another quarters of an hour to play they would at least have equalised. It is always a matter of satisfaction when a team attends so carefully to training that they are able to stand the strain of a stoutly contested game for 90 minutes, and throughout the season this has been a feature of Everton's play. At the same time they have rarely shown their true form in the opening stages of their games and this was more particularly the case on Saturday. Sunderland made their efforts during the first part of the game, and before Everton were aware of it they found themselves a couple of goals in arrear. The Wanderers having obtained so substantial a lead were content to direct their energies to prevent the capture of their own goal, and so apprehensive were they that during the closing stages there was little attempt to attack. Of the players Bell and Proudfoot were the most prominent of the Everton forwards and it befitted the occasion that the outside right should have scored Everton's goal. Oldham did well in the centre, and Kirwan also played a useful game, but Gee has not yet approached his form of last season. The halfbacks play in the earlier portion of the game was not of the usual finished character, for frequently during this period the trio failed to utilises opportunitys of feeding their own forwards. They made amends later on, equally Boyle and Taylor, who in addition to finding openings for their own men clung tensclously to the hitherto dangerous Sunderland forwards. Little room for adverse criticism was furnished by the display of Balmer, Molyneux and Muir much of their work being accomplished in most skilful fashion. The Sunderland players appeared to have a definite plan of campaign arranged to meet any emergency that might arise and this was evidenced plainly throughout the varying stages of the game. The forwards utilised almost every opening that came their way, and distributed their work so eqully, and with a good measure of success, that it would be invidious to individualise. The halves and backs played an untiring game, and behind them. Doig was a tower of strength, though occasionally, notably towards the close, there was a favour of luck about some of his saves. Summing up the game, it may be said that it was a great struggle in which there was little to choose between the teams. The Sunderland spectators naturally were highly pleased with the capture of two points, and the club's officials were delighted with a ‘'gate'' of over £500.
EVERTON 2 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 1 (Game 286)
November 21 1898. The Liverpool mercury
L .Bell blast penalty kick over bar.
The above teams played their initial League game of the season at Goodison Park, before 10,000 spectators. The weather was delightfully fine, and in favour of a fast game. Prior to the League match representative eleven of the Clarence and Akbar training ship entertained the spectators, the former winning by 2 goals to 1. Under the direction of Mr.Horrock the respective League eleven faced each other as Follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Molyneux, Halfbacks Wolstenholmes, Boyle and Taylor halfbacsk, Bell, proudfoot, Oldham, Kirwan, and Gee, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Baddeley, goal, Matthias, and Blankett backs, Griffiths, Pheasant, and Fleming, halfbacks, Tonks, Worton, Beats, Smith and Miller, forwards . Everton started, and each goal was rapidly visited, the Wolves being more dangerous than the home side, Muir having to kick out a shot from the right wing. Tonks and Worton were repeatedly conspicicouous, but Taylor stuck to the pair grandly though eventually Muir had to concede a corner after which Phesants cleverly checked an attempt by Oldham and Boyle who fairly over whelmed the home centre. The home side then had a glorious chance. Taylor placing nicely to Gee, whose centre was bungled right in front of Baddeley, and when the shot was eventually put in a futile corner was the only result. The Wolves indulged in some really clever footwork and, baffling Molyneux, Balmer ran across and grandly cleared, and another hugh return by the same back let in the home front rank, a rare dash into goalmouth being luckily stopped by Blackett. The visitors halves broke up the home combination time after time, and a burst down the centre of the field by Beats led to a strong attack on the home goal, but the defence eventually prevailed. After a long but unsuccessful attempts to score, the home forwards broke away, and Proudfoot dashing to the front shot in hard, but Blackett intercepted and Bell pouncing on the ball, drove into the net amidst loud cheering from the home partisans. Nothing daunted the Wolves attacked with Great Spirit, but when once moving the Everton forwards were more dangerous in front and by passing only a few yards too afar ahead did Baddeley avert another score. A couple of fouls proved advantageous to the Wolves for though Boyle finely cleared the first, the successing one let in Beats, who shot hard at Muir, and the ball dropping out of his hands, Miller had no difficulty in equalising. The Wolves continued to show superior and ran through the home halves with comparative ease, but Muir and the backs defending stoutly. Half time arrived without any further addition to the score. Resuming the visitors attacked in great style, Muir being repeatedly called upon to throw away capital shots, whilst twice in succession Wolstenholmes grandly baulked the Wolves left when nicely placed though a moment later a fine opening right in front of Muir was wretchedly utilised. A sudden rush of the home forwards led by Oldham took play to the Wolves line, and Mattias deliberately fisting down the centre from Oldham and the referee awarded a penalty kick . Bell, who to the intense chargin of the majority of the crowd sent the ball yards over the bar, took this. Elated by this escape, the Wolves bore down on Muir's charge, and Smith grazed the upright with a swift shot, but again did the home front retaliate and Bell forced a corner off Blackett. The ball was nicely placed, and after a series of exchanges in the goalmouth, Kirwan put his side ahead. The visitors played a very fine game, but lacked accuracy at the finish, and Everton were always dangerous when they got going. From Gee's centre another score was narrowly averted, and a splendid individual dash by Proudfoot ended in the ball being sent only inches wide of the desired mark. The Wolves made several swinging attacks and from a lofty shot by Tonks, Muir was penalised for carrying the ball too far, and Fleming shot struck the side of the net. The home forwards, led by Oldham and Proudfoot made several aggressive movements, and Kirwan nicely diverted a low shot from Boyle, but Baddleley saved what appeared a certain goal by falling full length and placing the ball outside the posts. The Wolves strove in desperate fashion to equalise, and their efforts fully deserved a goal a fast shot from Tonks when close in being brilliantly turned aside by Muir, who also distinguished himself a moment later by throwing away a low shot from Beats. In the last few minutes another splendid attempt from tonks was grandly fisted away by Muir, who in the closing stage fairly excelled himself. The visitors could not score again, However and Everton somewhat fortunately won by 2 goals to one.
CHIRK 1 EVERTON RESERVES 2
November 21 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
At Chirk. The home team were short of Mates and Roberts. The play opened fast and exciting, the ball travelling from goal to goal with great speed but neither side could make any impression on the defences. Halftime arrived with no goals scored. The second half was a repetition of the first but Schofield and Clarke scored for Everton. Sean Roberts missed grand openings in the Everton goalmouth and James scored for the home team. Result Everton 2 goals Chirk 1. Everton: - Jowett goal, Eccles and Crelley, backs, Turner (e) Strinfellow, and Hughes, halfbacks, Marquis, Bright, Clarke, Barlow and Schofield, forwards . (Placed 1 st , Game 10, Won 8, lost 0, Draw 2, For 45, Against 5. Points 16)
EVERTON REVIEW
November 21 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team succeeded in obtaining full points at the expense of Wolverhampton Wanderers, but in so doing, it must be admitted that they were favoured to no small extent by fortune's favours. On the actual play for Wolves, in all respect save one were undoubtedly the superior team, and had they been as accurate in final touches as they were during the concluding stages there could have been only one solution to the contest and that decidedly in their favours. From the outset the Evertonians entred upon their work in a manner that dispelled any idea of a definite plan of campaign having been determined upon, and indeed it was not until the game had been well in progess that there was any attempt at concerted action. Forward movements were ragged indeed, and to great was the strain put on the back it was not at all surprising that the rear guard were as often overrun by the Wolves, who hounded into a promising stride right from the start, and might easily have laid a solid foundation to success during the first few minutes of the games. The Wanderers could do everything that was desired in the open and had they been as proficient in locating the whereabouts of the net during the first half as they were in the last five minutes of the game they would not have left two points behind. Their forwards were keen on the ball, speedy when in possession, and moreover resourceful in evading the vigilance of the Everton halves, but all their efforts were spoiled by weak shooting hence their failure to account for their opponents. As stated above they were seen to greatest advantage during the closing stages of the game, when they rained in shots and fast, and had the Everton custodian been beaten more than once during this trying period, none could have blamed him. It was clearly a case of the keeper saving his side under exceptionally severe pressure during which almost every conceivable kind of shot, was sent in only to be dealt with in masterly fashion. It was a stubborn finish to an otherwise moderate game, and it is an unusual item to record that the Evertonians had the worse of the finishing stages. Previously the team have strongly asserted themselves during the last minutes of their games and especially has this been noticeable in away from home encounters. The backs were none too resourceful and in the earlier portion were frequently at fault. Balmer was not as reliable, as usual, and though Molyneux was off colour in the first moiety, he made amends later on, and put in many clever touches of play. The halfbacks appeared unable to cope with the speedy Wolves forwards, who pounced upon the ball with an avidity that contrasted markedly to the comparatively leisurely methods of the home quintet, though eventually Boyle and Taylor took in the situation and their subsequent play left nothing to be desired. Bell and Proudfoot best represented the forward line; indeed it was from this quarter that almost every dangerous movement emanated, but it was a matter of astonishment to the crowd that the former player should have made so feeble an attempt to score from a penalty kick that had been awarded for fisting the ball. Oldham was not so successful as usual and Gee rarely did anything to rouse enthusiasm, through Kirwan, who unfortunately, had to make his own play, was often see, under the circumstance to much advantage. However the line, as a whole, was not well balanced, and consequently an equal distribution of the work was rarely noticeable. On the other hand the Wolves forwards combined together and shared the work in a member that more than once favored their chances of success, and had their finishing touches been in keeping with their ordinary display in the open they must have netted full points. Tonks at outside right, was the best forward on the side, but all worked well, and but for weak shooting must have piled on goals. The halfbacks played a steady resourceful game, and when hard pressed the ball to each other with all the air of accomplished forwards. Blackett had a warm wing in the persons of Bell and Proudfoot to contend against, and that he came well out of the ordeal was a tribute to his ability as full backs. It was not a great game and as far as Everton are concerted, there will need be a big improvement if they are to retain their present position. The return of Chadwick would be greatly welcomed, and should this be early forthcoming there need be no this giving as to future success.
NEWTON AND DISTRICT 1 EVERTON 5
November 25 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
At Newton for the benefit of Charlie Parry the old Evertonian, who is now captain of the Newton eleven. There was a good attendance, but rain interfered with the game. Everton were well represented, Elliott again appearing at outside left. Gooderich and Watkin (oswestry) and Jones (aberystwyth) assisted Newton. The latter was absent during the first portion of the game and the visitors took advantage of the fact, Oldham scoring a pass by Gee. Shortly afterwards Gee added a second from a pass by Lewis, and before the arrival of the absentee. Oldham added a third from a penalty kick . Then matters became more even. After the interval W.Parry scored for Nkewton, having first evaded Balmer, Muir having little chance with the shot. Newton caused the visitors back division some anxiety, but could act again get through. Some pretty work by the visitors left and misunderstanding amongst the home backs resulted in another goal for Everton. Pryce Jones and Watkin exhibited some nice passing on the home right. A penalty was given against Davies, and again Oldham made no mistake. Newton got down again, and once or twice in the semi-darkness looked like scoring, but without effect. An interesting game ended in favour of the vistors by 5 goals to 1. Teams: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer (w), and Molyneux, backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Taylor (captain), halfbacks, Bell, Proudfoot, Oldham, Kirwan and Gee, forwards. Newton: - Edwards (a), goal, Jones (wr) and Perry (c (captain), backs, Tucker (h), Moore, and Davies (c), halfbacks, Preece, Jones, Watkins, Rehhow, Gwynnce, and Parry (w)
EVERTON 0 BURY 1 (Game 287)
November 28 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
The first of the season's League engagements between these clubs was played at Goodison Park on Saturday, before about 12,000 spectators. Both sides were well represented, and took the field as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer (w), and Molynuex, backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Taylor (captain) Bell, Proudfoot, Oldham Kirwan, and Gee, forwards. Bury: - Montgomery, goal, Darroch, and Davidson backs, Pray, Leeming, and Ross, halfbacks, Brimblecombe, Settle (j), McLuckie, Sagar, and Kelly, forwards. The visitors won the toss, and during the initial stages were seen to great advantage, Muir on two occasions having to save fairly difficult shots. A breakaway on the home left ended in Kirwan and Taylor finishing up badly and after the visitors had again got well down the Everton backs were seen to great advantage, and a clever movement ended in Oldham grazing the bar. Within the next few minutes Muir cleared in marvellous fashion from McLuckie, and Kelly. The Bury halves were at this period playing a mastery game, and many well directed movements were made towards Muir. Shooting was particularly keen, but, on the whole, was lacking in direction, fortunately for Everton but shortly afterwards McLuckie put in a magnificent low shot that would have beaten most keepers, and the clearance was greeted with applause from all parts of the ground. The Bury forwards, well attended to by their half backs, continued to make the running, but they were eventually baulked by Balmer and Molyneux, who when occasions required, covered each other with clever judgement. At length play favoured Everton, and several capital attempts were made to lower the visitors charge, but to no avail, as Davidson and Darroch covered the custodian so ably that scarcely was a shot sent in that savoured of much danger. Some capital work by the Bury halves resulted in the Everton defence being again overrun, McLuckie testing Muir to no purpose. During the next few minutes Everton had the better of matters, and had they been backed up well by the halves must have opened the scoring account. The trio were often faulty as they frequently placed the ball to an opposing back and thereby much ground was lost. Gee eventually put in a clever ventre, and Oldham followed by striking the upright, but apart from these efforts the Evertonians never looked like taking the lead. At the interval nothing had been scored, and on the resumption Everton were the first to assume an aggressive attitude. Oldham looked like getting through, when Davidson came to the rescue and following a movement on the Bury right Brimblecombe was only a trifle wide of the mark. Still, the Everton forwards had much the better of matters, and on several occasions looked like getting through, but there was no mistaking the earnestness of the Bury defenders who rarely allowed quarter, and Montgomery was thus relieved of much anxiety. The Bury right retaliated, only to be well met by Molyneux, and after a further pressure by the home side the visitors were seen to great advantage in the home half of the field. Muir was frequently called upon, and were never found wanting. Again the Everton left forced play to no advantage, and when the game looked like bring brought to a drawn issue a free kick was granted to Bury from a foul on, and Kelly put the ball into the net during the last minute of play, and Bury won a hard but rather uninteresting game by a goal to nil.
SOUTH LIVERPOOL 2 EVERTON RESERVES 5
Novemeber 28 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
At Liverpool. Everton played Chadwick, and Owens. In the first half Chadwick scored for Everton but Hirst equalised. Chadwick again gave Everton the lead, but before the interval Morris equalised. In the second half the home team were outplayed and Everton finally won by 5 goals to nil. (Game 11). Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Eccles, and Ramsden, backs, Owen Stringfellow, and Hughes, halfbacks, Marquis, Bright, Clarke, Chadwick, and Schofield.
EVERTON REVIEW
November 28 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
The result was a fairly judgement of play, for the visitors were a trifle aggressive to the home side. The Latter have played quite as well in some previous League games which they have won. On neither side would the forwards make much headway for the halfbacks broke up all attempts to combined with the result that the game was of a ragged character, and was uninteresting in nature. The Bury left backs did much towards winning the game but their side, and rarely did they allow the Everton front rank to become dangerous.the Everton right wing again maintained the bulk of the attack, and Bell was the pick of the forwards, but the pair could rarely get into full swing, for Ross was in great form, and completely neutralised the bulk of the work done by Proudfoot. In the centre Oldham did fairly well, but the left wing was very feeble, and it was on rare occasions that Gee did anything worthy of note. The display of the part of the team disappointing, in all round the forwards lacked he dash which has characterised some of their earlier efforts and which had more than compensated for the extra cleverness of the opponents. They allowed the Bury defence too much latitude in clearing, and did not exhibited their deadliness when in favorable positions for shooting. They however resolved but moderate assistance from the halfbacks, who although skillful in checking their opponent's advances, did not feed their own men, but placed the ball too often at the foot of an opponent. This weakness was most noticeable on the right wing, and Wolstenholmes though defending well, rendered comparatively no combination to the pair in front of him. As a body the trio were not seen to great advantage in forcing the play, the result being that there was a consequently minution to the effectiveness of the front rank. Their defence was very sound, and further behind Balmer and Molyneux rendered a capital account of themselves, and checked the severe rushes of the Bury forwards in defensive tactics. No blame can be attached to Muir for the shot which defeated him in the last minute of the game, and it was a bit of bad luck that he should have been beaten after keeping out the many excellent shots that required his attention during the game. He had some extremely troublesome balls to deal with, but he cleaned splendidly, and without hesitation. The visitors are a very stubborn combination, and their four successive victories are no more than their capabilities deserve. The halfbacks are a tower of strength to the team, for they tackled accurately, and what is more attending to their front rank most ambitiously. The pick of the line was Ross, as Proudfoot will doubtless admit, but there is little to choose between any of the trio, and each rendered an excellent account against the ‘'Blues'' The forwards go along characteristic style, and do not fail to shoot from every tangible range. The centre, McLuckie gave his wings endless opportualites what they severely utilised, and along the whole line there was more method and precision and greater danger shown when in the vicinity of the goal posts than was witnessed on the home side. They shot hard and often and Muir's position was an extremely trying one for the ball was drilled in when least expected. The full backs gave a very fine display particularly Davidsons. They were never beaten but tackled and returned most effectively and covered their custodian in such a measure that Montgomery had little of difficulty to engaged with. At one period immediately after the interval Everton infused a considerable amount of vigour into their play, and for a time appeared likely to overthrow their opponents. They however, failed to maintain this improvement which, had it continued it may be safely assumed that Bury would have been fortunate in returning with a couple of valuable points. It was disappointing game and the concluding stage was the most unsatisfactory of all for the ‘'Blues'' had no chance of gaining their lost laurels.