WILLIAM OWEN NEW CAPTAIN
August 4 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
W Owen has been elected captain and J.D.Taylor sub Captain of Everton Football Club, for the ensuing season. While the second team will be captained by E.Hughes with Wolstanhomes as his deputy, the price of the season tickets to the ground and goal stands has been reduced from 10s to 8s rd.

EVERTON CLUB
August 12, 1898. The Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser
Everton may be confidently relied upon to turn out a good eleven on September 1. Trial games are being indulged in, and the composition of the first team is still uncertain. The new players booked include Ball and Proudfoot, Blackburn Rovers; Eccles and Owen, Wolverhampton Wanderers; Kitchen, Buxton; Lewis, Bedminster; and Jowett, a county amateur, the last three being custodians. Harley, the new outside right, has seen service in the ranks of Aston Villa, Burton Wanderers and Walsall.

JOHNNY HOLT
Diss Express - Friday 26 August 1898
The Glasgow Rangers have just bought "Johnnie Holt" from Everton They are paying Everton £3OO down for him, and Johnnie is to receive £6 10s. per week all the year round, for, perhaps in all, about two months' steady work out of the twelve.—

NEW SEASON
August 29 1898. The Liverpool Season
On Thursday next the reign of the footballers begins once more for the space of eight months and the Everton club have this season embarked upon a course that it is hoped will turn out eminently satisfactory. Of course. One may expect to hear the usual wail of those eremites at the absence of several shining lights from the ranks of the club, but it must be remembered that with these bright particular stars in our midst the highest honours of the season were not achieved, and that frequently their performance were of the very ordinary and elementary character. There can be no question as to the credentials of the recruits to the Everton Club, and this much is certain, that the team to a man will be a team of tries. Those who have been fortunate enough to witness the preparatory training and public practice game at Goodison road are bound to admit that the managers of the club have abundant resource to draw opon, and when there has been a proper disposition of the men the general effect will doubtless having a levelling up tendency in the directions of the attainment of a lighter standard than has been previously enjoyed by the club. The practice games last Saturday week was much above the average of such like contests, as inequality was never apparent, and all that are required for complete success are judicious management, and the fostering of harmonious spirit among the players. The training operations are again in the hands of J. Lewis than whom none has served his club better in this respect, and when the team take the field on Thursday we may expect to find them in the fittest possible conditions. This of course, is absolutely essential, for we enter upon a season in which the race for final honours promise to be keener than ever, and those business like organisations that have thrown off this four months coating of rust and appear thoroughly fit in their initial engagements will reap a benefit that will have a most important bearing when matters are finally reckoned up. The players engaged are: - Goalkeepers, Muir, Kitchen, and Jowett, backs Balmer, Molyneux, Eccles, Lewis, and Crelly; half backs; Boyle, Owen, Taylor, Wolstenholmes, Stringfellow, Ball Hughes and Turner, forwards Harley, Divers, Proudfoot, Chadwick, Gee, Clark, Laurence Bell, Oldham, Kirwan, Schofield, and Barlow. Owen has been elected captain of the League team, and his experience in a similar capacity a Wolverhampton will greatly benefit his new club. The season opens on Thursday at Goodison Park, where the Blackburn Rovers will furnish the visiting side.

 

SEPTEMBER 1898

EVERTON 2 BLACKBURN ROVERS 1
September 2 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
For their initial fixture, the Everton face an attractive game against Blackburn rovers at Goodison Park. Blackburn are always warmly welcomed when they visit the city, and the teams faced in front of 12,000 spectators as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer (w), and Molyneux, backs, Boyle Owen (captain), and Taylor, halfbacks Clarke, Driver, Proudfoot, Chadwick, and Gee, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Carter, goal, Brandon, and Glover, backs, Booth, Anderson, and Chambers halfbacks Williams, Hulse, Jackson, Blackburn, and Wilson forwards. The Rovers skipper won the toss, but there was little of no advantage to be derived, as there was practically no wind. In the first minute of play, Proudfoot was only a few yards from the mark and Driver shortly afterwards shot against the side of the net. The Everton right made capital play, and Brandon was lucky in charging down a hot shot from Taylor. There was no mistaking the earnestness of the Everton forwards, and for some time the best efforts of the Rovers defence were brought into requisition Booth came under the ban of the referee for fouling Gee, but nothing came of the free kick, and following a smart tackle of Rovers centre by Balmer, Muir was tested for the first time. Following this the visitors gave considerable trouble to the Everton backs, and shots were sent in by Anderson, Williams, and Jackson, but to no purpose. Boyle smartly effected a clearance when Anderson returning the ball to Hulse. Who lay well up, and headed into goal. Plat up to this point having been in progess 13 minutes. Immediately on getting to work again Gee had a fairly good chance of equalising matters, but only partially got command of the ball, and Carter cleared. Clarke followed with a shot, which was slightly lacking in direction and faulty play by Proudfoot again gave his old club the advantage. A magnificent shot from Chadwick brought Carter to his knees, and following some capital touches by Boyle, and strong kicking by Balmer, the Everton forwards were seen to great advantage. The Rovers defenders however, left nothing nodone and nothing could be finer than the close attentions of Brandon, Booth, and Andersons, who several times took the ball from the toe of an opponent when within shooting range. Williams eventually got away on the Rovers right, and Jackson drove in low at Muir, who gathered the ball well, and placed it well forward. The pace up to this period had been exceptionally keen, for a first match of the season, and following a few minutes slackness it revived again, and Carter had some difficulty in getting away several well directed shots. Keeping up pressure a corner kick was awarded the Evertonians, and after several exchanges, in which Balmer was often seen to advantage, Clarke missed a splendid opening by hesitating. The Everton right back forced a corner off Carter and for some few minutes the home van held the play, but lacked precision when within shooting range. The finest bit of play up to this point was furnished by Clarke, who raced along the right and put in a magnificent centre, which Chadwick unfortunately headed over the bar. Nothing further was scored up to the interval, when the Rovers had a lead of one goal to none.

The second half opened tamely, and during the first few minutes the only item of any moment was a fine save by Muir, from close quarters Proudfoot then looked like getting through, when Glover got across and kicked outside. For some time the Everton forwards maintained the advantage, but they were not nearly so clean and prompt in shooting as were their opponents, who never lost an opportunity of popping at goal when anywhere within range. Anderson was especially keen in this matter, and on one occasion a swift oblique shot form him only just missed the mark. A corner to Everton was badly placed, and from a similar conession to the Evertonians moment afterwards, the rovers centre dashed away and defeated Molyneux and when an open goal looked certain, Balmer got across and saved at the expense of a fruitless corner. Directly afterwards the home forwards raced nicely down, and from a capital centre by Clarke, proudfoot drove hard into the net, and equalised 18 minutes from the restart. The lusty cheers of the spectators infused fresh vigour into the movement of the Everton players, and for some few minutes the ball was bobbing about among the Rovers defenders. The locals looked like getting through again, but the excellence of the Rovers defence frustrated many a well-directed effort, and a long pressure ended with a magnificent shot from Gee, which just grazed the bar. Everton continued to have the best of matters, and several shots were rained in but eventually Clarke pounced on the ball just inside the Rovers half, and from a long range drove with terrific force pass Carter, this splendid effort being received with tremendous cheering. Encouraged by their success Everton renewed their efforts, and Chadwick grazed the bar with a fast shot. The Rovers broke away at intervals, and were pulled up before becoming dangerous, and the game was all in favour of Everton. Capital attempts to increase the lead were made by Clarke and Chadwick, and just before the finish the Rovers made a desperate attempts draw level, Wilson heading in from a centre by Hulse, but Muir cleared, and though a moment later Anderson justed grazed the upright, Everton finally won their first League match of 2 goals to 1.

For an opening game, the equality of play reached a good standard, and taking all points into consideration, there could be no question that the Evertonians thoroughly deserved their success. During the first half, however the Rovers were indisputality their defence was particularly strong, while the forwards were well attendant to by the halfback line, which all through played a very importance part in the proceedings. After the equalising point by Everton quite a different cpmplexition came over the game. The local players maintained the high pace, while their opponents appeared to labour, and the success by Everton was undoubtedly largely due to the excellent result of their training operations. They showed splendidly and demonstrated to a nicely under the conditions. Clarke from the Skerton club, giving a capital game at outside right, and at halfback none of the field did better work than Boyle, whose clever touches under at times difficult conditions, was always most effective, Balmer maintained his fine form of last season, and Muir did well between the uprights. For the Rovers the rearguard preformed excellently, and while Anderson lost no opportunity of testing Muir, the forward line was best representative by the right wing, and the club will undoubtless have a better record than last season.

SHEFFIELD UNITED 1 EVERTON 1
September 5 1898. The Liverpool mercury
The Everton team entered upon their second League engagement at Sheffield on Saturday, when at the time of commencing operations there would be quite 12,000 spectators on the Bramell Lane enclosure. Following upon their success of the Evertonians against the Rovers on Thursday evening, there was no change in the team, while the United was represented by the full strength. The sides faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal Balmer (w), and Molyneux, backs Boyle Own (captain), and Taylor halfbacks, Clarke, Driver, Proudfoot, Chadwick and Gee forwards. Sheffield Unired: - Foulkes, goal, Thickett, and Simpson, backs Johnson, Morren and Needham halfbacks Bennett, Whelan, Hedley, Almond and Priest, forwards.
Everton started, facing a glaring sun, and during the opening stages Gee shot over the line, and Proudfoot tested Foulkes. The United than held a strong position, and after several attempts to get through Priest put the ball past Muir but was promptly pulled up for offside. The same player tested the Everton custodian shortly afterwards and at the other end Clarke put in a capital shot which was ably attended to by Foulkes. The United now maintained a strong attack, but their finishing touches were faulty. Bennett on one occasion shooting over the bar when there was practically an open goal. Needham and Morren put in good work, and kept their forwards well employed, but a free kick against Bennett for charging the goalkeeper brought about a change of venue, and the Everton left were then seen to advantage. The visitors however, failed to make quick impression, when the home defence, and for a lengthly period the Everton half was the scene of operations, and Whelan and Bennett put in a couple of warm shots at Muir, and in close following Chadwick had a capital opening, but his shot struck the upright and bounded out of play. Nothing was scored up to the interval, and on resuming Gee got capitally away on the left, but his centre was well attended to by Thickett. Morren than missed the mark from a long range. Fine work by Needham was not supported, and Gee again got away strongly, only to find his final effort at fault. After Proudfoot had failed to get the better of Foulkes, the Blades put fresh vigour into their work, and a capital centre from Priest should have been put to advantage. Returning again, Needham with a ling shot, defeated Muir, but within a few minutes Proudfoot converted a smart centre from Gee, and the teams were again contesting upon even terms. From this point the Evertonians had the better of matters and narrowly missed a winning point from a scrimmage in front of the Sheffield goal. Nothing further was forthcoming and a draw of 1 goal each resulted.

EVERTON RESERVES 12 BANGOR 0
September 5 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
Played at Goodison park, before a fair attendance. After 15 minutes the Everton team fairly had the measure of their opponents, and before the arrive of the interval four goals had been scored, against Hughes, was however, had kept his charge splendidly. The second half was thortougly one sided and the Everton players had numerous opportunities of showing their shooting abilities. At the close of play Everton had won by twelve goals to nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 5 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
In sharing honours with the League Champions of last season, the newly constituted Everton team did exceptionally well at Bramell Lane on Saturday. The game could scarcely come under the category of the brilliant order, but which was looking in this respect was more than compensated for by the entiring efforts of the players to bring into prominence their staying capabilities. And under the existing circumstances they had a very difficult task on hand for the elemental conditions was most in keeping with the pervert of the summer pastime than the chasing of the big ball, and an doubt when both teams settle down to more concerted methods they will achieve results that should bring them well to the front in the struggle for honours. The amount of energy expended contracted markedly to the actual results obtained, and with a more carefully devised plan of campaign before then, there can be no doubt that both clubs will play a leading part in the season's programme. It was due to superior staying powers that the Evertonians were able to record a victory against the Rovers on the first day of the season, and all that is required to sustain the prestige of the club is a more thorough and understanding between the players, so as to bring about an equal distribution of the work. One could not fail to admire the go ahead persistency of one section of the Everton forwards on Saturday, and there can be no question that had there been a level ability manifest all along the line, full points would have been speedily forthcoming. Driver was the most ineffective and consequently his confreres Clarke had but little opportunity of exacting quarter from such a well known exponent as Needham. Thus most of the attack came from the left and it goes without saying that Gee when in possession was the most dangerous forward on the field. His centres were superb and in conjunction with Chadwick and Proudfoot, found plenty of work for the united defenders. The home forwards line, though never lacking in dash, were repeatedly faulty when within shooting range. They had plenty of chances offered them to lay a good foundation to success, but that were badly utilised. They commanded the greater share of pressure until the second half was reached. When the Evertonians levelled up matters somewhat, and their success in getting upon even terms with their opponents was thoroughly well merited. Halfbacks play was fitful, and Boyle was an easy first on the Everton side by his cool judgement and clean passing. Owen did not appear to unduly exert himself until his side was difficulties, and then his heading and strong rushing out of goal frequently brought relief. Taylor was at times ill at ease against the speedy Bennett, but taking the half way line as a whole, the standard of last season was not sustained. On the United side, Johnson was the weakest of the trio, while Needham and Morren were always conspicuous with well-directed play. The right back positions on both sides were very capably filled by Balmer and Thickett and while Simpson for the United was decidedly weak all through, Molyneux on the Everton left improved as the play progressed, and with further trials, will undoubtedly enter into the spirit of his work in the initial stages with greater confidences. At times bot Foulkes and Muir were kept busily employed, though neither had very difficult shots to negotiate, and the Evertonians was apparently thoroughly deceived with the shot that told against him. Taking the play all round, neither side could claim much advantage, nor it must have been a source of gratification to the Everton managers that with the absence of ‘'stars'' from their team such satisfactory results so far this season should have been obtained.

EVERTON 3 NEWCASTLE UNITED 0
September 12 1898.
The Liverpool Courier
Newcastle United, the latest recuits to the First Division of the League, made their debut at Goodison Park, on Saturday in order to fulfil their League fixture with Everton. Quite fifteen thousands spectators were present at the outset, and these were rapidly increased until the number had reached twenty thousand. At four o'clock the teams faced in the following order: - Everton: - Nuir, goal, Balmer (w), and Molyneux backs, Boyle, Owen (captain), and Taylor, halfbacks, Clarke, Barlow, Proudfoot, Chadwick, and Gee forwards. Newcastle United: - Kingsley, goal, Lindsay, and Jackson backs, Ghee, Higgins, and Stott, halfbacks Peddle, Aitken, Campbell, Smith and Niblo, forwards. Owen borrowed a coin to settle the choice, and processing a lucky one managed to get the best of the spin. Campbell started the ball, and the visitors, Higgins and Aitken made the first movement by a striking movement passing Owen and giving Peddie possession. The wingman got down nicely but sent the ball out in trying to centre. The United were down again in a trice, relief only coming, when Smith kicked out. A moment later, Campbell give a nice pass to Peddie, and he fouled Molyneux in tackling Pettie. The free kick created only a momentary diversion, but after a foul again the home side, Everton showed a bit of play on the left, Again pressing vigorously the United press away, and more than once made fine openings of which, they seemed unable to take advantage. Campbell had a chance, but mulled it, and directly after the home left went away with a rush, and Chadwick dashed in lighting shot. This was intercepted luckily, and the ball rebounding to Clarke toe, the winger made no mistake and a quarter of an hour from the start Everton notched the first point. roused by this, the United went away on the right, and Peddie shot in a fine centre, Muir throw away, but he could not clear properly, and Aitken put the ball in. the point was disallowed for offside. During the play, following Owen fell on his head, and had to retire in order to have his injury dressed. A loud cheer announced that Owen had returned, his head been bandaged up. A long kick from Balmer took play in front of Kingsley. Ghee was pushed over by Lindsay in what the referee thought questionable fashion. A corner followed the free kick, and this the united defender's could not get away, Clarke put in a good shot, which Kingsley fisted out coolly. A nice passing movement to the other end, but the visitors could make no play in front of goal. Balmer cleared easily. Play was rapidly at the other end, where the bombardment took place at Kingsley's charge. He cleared more than once, but at length a long shot from Owen passed the forest of legs and Kingsley could not save it. The interval arrived some minutes later. Half time result Everton 2 goals Newcastle nil. Long kicking distinguished the opening of the second half, until Balmer with a nice kick, gave Gee possession. The wing man was at once tripped, and the free kick taking the ball right into the goalmouth, Lindsay headed the ball into his own goal, this third point for Everton coming within a few minutes from the restart. Play was not generally of a high order, nothing further was scored and Everton won by three goals to nil

CHESTER 1 EVERTON RESERVES 3
September 5 1898. The Liverpool Courier
Chester maintained their new ground on Saturday, when they had a combination visit from Everton. The ground was in capital order, and when the goal ended Everton won by 3 goals to one.

CHESTERFIELD 0 EVERTON 2
Septemebr 13 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
The crack League team visited Chesterfield last evening and played the ‘'Crocked spire'' team, a match for having transferred Gee to the shipping centre. The weather was much cooler, and 2,000 spectators were present. Turner missed scoring from gee, had bell notched a point for Everton in ten minutes. Chesterfield had two chances after this but failed, Kirwan added a second goal, for Everton who won by two goals to nil.

BUXTON 2 EVERTON RESERVES 2
September 14 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played at Buxton last evening when the amateurs gave the professionals a grand game, Storey missed two shots for Buxton, and then Lomas saved. Driver and Bell scored for the blues, who led at half time by 2 goals to nil. On crossing over, the play was fast and clever; Buxton rushed the ball through in 15 minutes. Ten minutes later Gomer for Buxton sent in a corner kick, which bounded into the Everton goal. No further scoring took place and a two goal each resulted.

PRESTON NORTH END 0 EVERTON 0
September 19 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met at Deepdale in weather more favorable to cricket than football, before about 8,000 spectators. Kirwan was included in the Everton team at inside right, vice Barlow, who partnered Clarke on the previous Saturday. At 3-30 the players took the field as follows : - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Molyneux backs, Boyle Owen (captain), and Taylor, halfbacks, Clarke, Kirwan, Proudfoot, Chadwick, and Gee forwards. Preston North End: - McBride, goal, Dunn, and Tait backs, Eccleston, Russell, and Blyth, halfbacks, Murray, Pratt, Whittle, Hargreaves, and Halsall, forwards . Owen win the toss, and Whittle commended play, facing a glaring sun. The first attack of any moment came from the Everton left and shortly following both Clarke and Owens tested McBride to purpose. Eventually Whittle led on a movement to the visitors end, some pretty passing out to the wings resulting in Muir being kept fully extended, and fortunately for him two efforts from Hassell were slightly lacking in direction. Play was contested in the keenest fashion, and each side in turn was busily engaged in close proximity to the upright but almost without exception finishing touches were faulty, though on one occasion Muir scooped out a clinking shot from the foot of Whittle and Murray eventually had the better of a tussle with Molyneux, and on centring Whittle again only missed the mark by the merest shave. For some time there was little to choose between the teams, the defence in a rule prevailing over the attack, but following several exchanges Boyle put in a clinking shot, which required McBride#'s best effort to keep out. Chadwick had gained his ankle and retired, and though numerally handicapped, his side had none the worse of matters. Later Halsall put in a couple of clever shots that justed missed the mark, and following a further return a terrific shot from the foot of Whittle struck the under part of the bar. Muir prevented the ball from sliding into the net, and Balmer cleared formly a Hargreaves was on the point of getting his toe to the ball. This was a marvellous escape and profiting by the Evertonians redoubled their exertions, and were quickly at the other end, where McBride saved magnificently from Clarke the expense of a fruitless corner. At the interval neither side had scored, nor on resuming play Chadwick again took up his position, but from his movements it was quite apparent that he would not be able to render his side much assistance. The Everton defence was early offset and a terrific pressure was brought to bear upon Muir's charge. Shot after shot was sent into no purpose, as Muir was always on the alert though it must be admitted a big element of luck favoured the Evertonians. At length Whittle put the ball into the net from a smart centre by Murray, but was promptly penalised for hampering the goalkeeper. During the next few minutes both sets of forwards had chances of opening the scoring account, but wild shooting characterisiesed their efforts in every instance. North End forced a couple of corners to an avail, and at the other end Kirwan put in a lighting shot, which just missed its mark. The same player lost a further chance by dallying, and following a slight injury to Proudfoot, Molyneux was badly charged, but quickly resumed play. The closing stages were all in favour of North End, but the efforts of their forwards were still faulty, and the game ended in a drew of no goals.

EVERTON RESERVES 8 SOUTH LIVERPOOL 0
September 19 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
At Goodison Park, before a splendid gate South Liverpool were outclassed in the first half Bell, early scored, and Oldham and Barlow each added a couple. Each side lost a player hurt, at the interval Everton lead by 5 goals to nil. Resuming. A South Liverpool player was ordered off, but on the intervention of the Everton captain he was allowed to resume. The home team continued to hold the upper hand, and scored on three occasions. Final result Everton 8 goals, South Liverpool nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 19 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
As in previous seasons, the game between Preston North End and Everton produced a very keen and exciting contest, and carefully weighting matters up, it must be admitted that the local team had a fair measure of fortunate favours bestowed on them in escaping defeat. Had the Prestonians been at all deadly in front of goal, there could only have been one team in it, for chances on numerable came their way, only to be allowed to go a begging. The Everton vanguard did not by any means sustain the reputation they had previously enjoyed, and must precise action must be forthcoming if they are to retain a high position in the competition. There was a slight improvement in the matter of combination, but this appeared to be at the expense of those clever finishing touches that characteriised the surely displays, and useless there is a blending of these qualities the club can scarcely look forward with much confidences to further success. The attack on both sides compared very on favourably with the defence, though whatever was lacking by the respective forwards in combination on the aim side and finsihing touches on the other was ably compounded for by the really clever display of he backs who by their close attentions to the game, kept the enthusiasm of the crowd at full tension throughout. The play was contested too keenly to bring out the nicer points of the game, and several little incidents that came under the notice of the referee were rather the result of high pressure than willful infringement of rule. Unfortunately for the Evertonians Chadwick had to retire early on the game owing to a sprained ankle, and though he returned in the second half, it was quite apparent that his presence hindered rather than assisted his side. Taking this drawback into consideration, the Evertonians are to be complimented upon holding their own, and undoubtedly would have more than done so had the wing men not displayed a selfishness that to the most ordinary observer was plainly detrimental to the prospects of their side. It is all very well to run round an opponents after having once hail his measure, but when putted against resourceful players as they were on Saturday, it would have been far more beneficial to have swung the ball across from wing to wing than to subject themselves to bring deprived of possession, with often a rude shaking up into the bargain. Both Clark and Gee were disappointing, for there was scarcely a movement of exceptional merit from either during the whole of the game, and in the matter of individual honours. Proudfoot came out an easy first though his display did not noir above the average. The injury to Chadwick will cause a rearrangement of the front line for duty next Saturday against Liverpool, and in all probability Kirwan will partner Gee, and L.Bell will be included on inside right. At halfback Boyle again played a sterling game, and Owens was always about when danger threatened but Taylor never appeared to be over comfortable, and was often beaten. At full back there was little indeed to choose between the work of Balmer and Molyneux, but if there was any margin of cleverness it appeared to favour Molyneux more by reason of recent improvement, and a continuance of such display as fast on Saturday will certainly make his position, secure in the team. Muir at times had a most exacting duty to perform, and that he repeatedly saved his charged under most unlooked for conditions testified ably to his abilities as a class custodian. Several of his rescues were effected at very short range, and there can be no question that he played a very prominent part in the proceedings. The Prestonians as a body are a better lot than their present position warrants, and when the forwards settled down to more methodical working in front of goal it will be a clever team that will be able to exact points from them. In the earlier stages of the game but a minimum of fault could be found with their finishing touches for several afforts only missed the mark by the merest shade, but in the closing stages they had many chances, the execution of which savored very strongly of an elemary character. The halfbacks, Russell in particular were a very serviceable lot, and both Dunn and Tait played a hard and resourceful game all through, while McBride's performance between the uprights left nothing to be desired. Though the game was not of the brilliant order there was scarcely a dull moment and under the exciting circumstances the Evertonians were fortunate in preserving that unbeaten record.

EVERTON 1 LIVERPOOL 2
September 26 1898.
The Liverpool Mercury
Goodison Park, with its exceptionally well cared for playing encourse was seen at its best on Saturday, when a local giant took the field in the first of the season's League contests. Such meetings do not require any extraneous efforts to stir the pulse of local followers of the pastime and that on Saturday last certainly holds the record in point off attendance and receipts. The gates had been thrown open to an eager and critical crowd at two o'clock, and an hour later there was an assemblage of such proportions that must have gladdened the hearts of the finance committee, for then there were prospects of turnstile records as there was no apparent diminution in the influx of spectators. At four o'clock when the teams took up their position, there must have been quite 45,000 person's person, and although the official figures are not yet to hand it is stated that the gate receipts realised over £1250. At the outset popular opinion favoured the Anfield road organisation, more by reason of there being a greater infusion of shining lights in their team, but the Evertonians though, not of the class system, had done exceptionally well in the tournament thus far, and they were not without many supporters that were confident of their success. Unfortunately the teams were not at full strength, Chadwick on the one side, Allen on the other being compelled to stand down owing to injuries, and the players, under the supervision of Mr.J.Lewis faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer (w) and Molyneux, backs, Boyle, Owen (captain), and Taylor halfbacks, Clark, Bell, Proudfoot, Kirwan, and Gee forwards. Liverpool: - Storer, (captain), goal, Goldie, and Dunlop, backs, Howell, Raisebeck, and Goldie (w), halfbacks, Marshall, McCowie, Walker, Morgan, and Robertson, forwards . Storer won the toss, and arrayed his men with the sum at their backs, and immediately after the opening exchanges Robertson was only slightly wide of the mark. The same player was again in possession almost directly afterwards, but none of his confreres were up to meet his centre, and Molyneux eventually cleared. Gee then led on a smart movement to the Liverpool end, and finished up with a shot that sailed over the bar, which was followed by another from Taylor resuiting in an abortive corner kick. Then following some capital play by the Everton forwards of whom Bell was always conspicuous, and for some time Dunlop was in trouble. However the defence eventually prevailed, and a concerted movement to the other end resulted in McCowie heading in, only to find Muir on the alert. Gee took up the running on the home left, and finished up with a capital shot, which Storer saved at the expense of a corner. The kick was well taken and Proudfoot headed into the net this success coming after play had been in progess ten minutes. Following this the Liverpool defence was subjected to great pressure, and with more precision, both Gee and Kirwan might easily have added to the score. Eventually Walker initiated a movement towards the home goal, and as Balmer was at fault the free kick found the Liverpoolians swarming round Muir's charge. After Taylor had charged down a terrific shot, a corner was given against Balmer, and McCowie was not far from the mark, on heading in. A shot from Walker was saved at the expense of a corner, which was splendidly placed by Robertson, and McCowie rushing up, breasted the ball into the net, though at the time of contact the ball appeared to be out of play. However, the referee did not entertain a confident appeal and the teams set to work again on level terms. Some clever play by Raisebeck was noticeable in the next few minutes, following which, Walker left the ground owing to injury but was not long absent. Close upon the interval Proudfoot had a capital opening, as there was practically no opposition, but shot wildly, and when the whistle sounded for the interval the score stood Everton 1, Liverpool 1. During the first half Everton were the more dangerous side, and had they taken advantage of easy chances that came their way, they must have had a substantial lead on resuming, The second half opened in tame, fashion. A free kick close in the Liverpool goal was badly utlised by Clarke and in a trice, play was at the other end, where Marshall screwed into goalmouth after Muir had left his charge, but fortunately Molyneux who had all through been playing a most judicious game was on the spot. And cleared in forcible fashion, Balmer at this juncture was often beaten and many dangerous movements were made by the Liverpool left wing, but the home halves never lost their heads, and falling back, saved many an ugly rush on Muir's charge. Owen continued to put in useful work, though for a lengthly period the Liverpoolians were not to be denied, and pressed severely. Gee change the venue, but finished badly, and following a further return by the visiting left wing pair, Balmer tripped up Robertson, and the referee warranted a penalty kick, which was successfully negotiated by McCowie. Following this Everton attacked, and Proudfoot being injured left the field for some minutes it being apparent on his return that he would not be able to render much assistance to his side. He had no sooner resumed than Gee had to retire for the remainder of the game, owing to a strain, and Everton had practically to complete the game with nine men. Still, efforts were not relaxed, and Storer, was lucky in keeping out a magnificent shot from Kirwan. Following an escape from Walker the Liverpool goal was gain subjected to pressure, but nothing further was scored, and the issue favoured Liverpool by 2 goals to 1.

GARSTON COPPER WORKS 0 EVERTON RESERVES 3
September 26 1898. The Liverpool Mercury
At Gartson before a very large attendance. Everton brought a very strong team, while Gartson played several changes. The first half was played in a very spirited manner, and at the interval Everton was leading by 3 goals to nil. The second half was contested in a more even manner, both sides playing extremely well, Everton scored through Schofield and Oldham (2). Nothing was scored in the second half, Everton winning by 3 goals to nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 26 1898.
The Liverpool Mercury
Meeting between Everton and Liverpool, whatever the occasion may be always productive of more than ordinary interest, put when the respective forces are opposed to each other in the League tournament the local feeling is focused to fever height for then it is a stern case of Greek meeting Greek. For weeks prior to the all eventful day arguments pre and cos are indulged forth by the respective partisans of the two clubs, and thus the interest increasing until the actual meeting which brings trump to the one side and comparative despondency to the other. In the majority of previous contests the Everton stay has been predominant and never up to Saturday last, had the Anfield forces been able to exact even one point from they arrivals at Goodison Park, and only once have the Anfield brigard accured the maximum number of points even when playing on their own ground. This year however, has witnessed a complete change of policy on the part of the Everton directors which it is not necessary here to dilate upon further but if success is to be measured by actual results, then the change has been fully justified by the fact that the eleven doing duty for the club-most of whom are Englishmen, in four matches-two of which were away from home, gained six points and held an untamished record. On the other hand Liverpool had got together what was considered a rather ‘'Tony'' team of across Border talent, and as far as the chance of the respective eleven are concerned, the issue was considered of a more open character than had otherwise been the case. This naturally had an influence on the attendance, which succeed all the previous bests, and formed a new record for these matches. But everything was in favour of the figure friend, for the day was glorious fine, with scare breath of wind, and as the crowds rolled up from every quarter, wending their way all in the same direction, even the most disinterested must have experienced some wonderment as the cause of the universal excitement. Inside the spacious enclosure was indeed a characteristic and astounding spectacle the banked surroundings, and elegant stands being filled with an eagerly expectant multitude, the centre of green reserved for the anxiously awaited contestant like an emerald surrounding by a deep setting of somber hue and appealing to the eye by its striking contrast. It was a tribute to the groundsman's skill. At length the time arrived for the approach of the players, the period of waiting being pleasantly beguiled by strains of music, and the culminating point was reached. Eleven little figures led in deepest blue bounded onto the greensward amidst terrific cheers, which were renewed when a few minutes later, eleven others robed in red, appeared. The contrast was magnificently picturesque, and no finer sight on a football field could be imagined than the few seconds prior to the signal for starting. The story of the game is soon told. In less than two minutes Robertson whipped across a lovely centre, which; only required a touch to turn into the net, but it was missed unaccountably by two forwards at least. Then Taylor at the other end drew forth all Storer's skill to tip a fast shot over the bar, but after ten minutes Gee shot strongly, Storer gave a corner and from the kick, Proudfoot headed the ball into the net. For a few seconds there was an indescribable scene, and then stern reality began again. The home forwards acted capially whilst Liverpool were slow, but the ‘'Blues'' could not even score with an open goal, and eventually McCowie equalised by breasting a corner kick past Muir. This particular point will doubtless provoke immense argument, as to whether the ball was in the net ere the diminutive Liverpoolians touched it, and there appears to be more than ordinary justification for thinking that such was the case, but the referee Lewis promptly pointed to the centre. This was the state of affairs at the interval, which the musicians utilised by pouring forth the suggestive strains of ‘‘will ye nee come back again.'' In the second half the play deteriorated, and a questionable bit of work by Balmer within the twelve yards limit brought about the inevitable penalty, and McCowie placed a goal, and won the game. Everton's chances afterwards entirely disappeared with Proudfoot injured and Gee away altogether. Thus for the first time in their career Liverpool won at Goodison. But it can not be said that they deserved it, on the play shown and a draw would have been a truer result. In the first half Everton were seen to advantage and had much the better of the argument. They made up in energy and adroitness what they might have lacked in finese, and the forwards had chances enough in this moiety to have easily made the game secure. Liverpool were very ragged in their work, though they occasionally give glimpse of real ability, but their was a one sided sort, of attack for the right wing fumbled, and dallied and shaped as if they were out of joint. Everton astonished the crowd by the amount of earnestness they put into their play, and the halves worried the Liverpool forwards continually dispossessing them and giving their own front rank abundant opportunities. None worked harder amongst the forwards than Bell, but at a matter of fact the whole line did all that was necessary, except one most important item- namely shoot. Repeatedly they failed at the easier chances, and this weakness cost them dearly. Their halves played a capital game, and adopted the proper tactics in breaking up the Liverpool combination by dogging at their heels, and often getting the ball away from their opponents passes. There was little to choose between the trio, and each in his own characteristic way rendered excellent services. Further behind, there was a striking and not altogether pleasing contrast. Molyneux was in brilliant form alike in kicking and tackling, and in addition his play was perfectly fair. On the other hand, Balmer early in the game showed indiscreet tactics, and he never recovered; for all through he failed to do himself justice and a kindly admonition from the skipper Owen proved abortive. The climax was reached when he whipped Robertson's leg from under him when only a few yards from the posts, and the game was then decided. Otherwise the contest was remarkably free from foul play especially considering the high tension, which the combatants were working, and probably the lesson will prove salutary to the capable right back, as it was decisive. Muir acted splendidly in goal, and with the above notable exception no fault could be found with the Everton defence. The Liverpool front rank was disappointing, and this was probably due to the reararrament necessary, owing to indisposition of Allan. Walker in the centre acted well so did also the left wing, Marshall was a failure and after the fine display he gave on Monday evening at Anfield, he non-success appears all the more astonishing. Slow movements and aimless passing are altogether useless, and more go a head work with a rasping shot at the finish is what Marshall is capable of doing. McCowie was the fortuate scorer on his side, and this presumably is like charity for it coverth it multitude of faults and McCowie personified both Morgan and Walker executed some clever work, but Robertson nulled several dashing runs by eractic centres, and there was not that straight coursing for goal that has marked his play in earlier games. The halves were not up to their usual standard by any means, especially the two wingmen, and they seemed slow by comparison with their opponents. Raisbeck was prominent to the centre, but it was until well on in the game that the whole the tumbled to their usual precise methods. Evidently the prevailing excitement had been too overpowering. Goldie played splendidly at full back, but Dunlop tackled weakly and was often in difficulties, and on the whole the Liverpool defence exhibited more flaws than has been witnessed for some time.storer executed some clever saves, particularly those from Taylor and Gee in the first half, and one- a stringer- from Kirwan about a minute from the finish. It was a somewhat disappointing game, for one does not care to see a match of this description won by a penalty goal, particularly when the play has been of an even nature, but Everton have little cause for despondency in the result. They were the worst handicapped by injuries to players, and the only result of Liverpool's victory, which no one can begrudge them after the long spell of unsuccessful attempts, will be to infuse the return fixture with an even greater interest. The players deserve great credit for the fair manner in which the game was contested and the simply proves that even in a local ‘'Derby'' where feelings is apt to overstep prudence, the men can control themselves, and thus gave unbounded pleasure to the crowd, who are in more than one sense their supporters.