EVERTON 0 BLACKBURN ROVERS 0
April 2 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The return League game between these clubs at Goodison Park on Saturday did not met with much support, for at the start of the game there would not be more than 6,000 present, though later on the numbers reached five figures. Several changes were made in the Everton front rank. Sharp displacing Taylor at outside right while McDonald was given a trial at centre forwarsd, and Oldham at inside left. At halfback Blythe was dropped for Wolstenholmes, and at left full back Crelly substituted Molyneux. The Rovers had a good side, and the teams lined out as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer, and Crelly, backs Wolstenholmes, Boyle (captain), and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp, Toman, McDonald, Oldham, and Gee, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Whittaker, goal, Crompton, and Hardy, backs, Anderson, Booth, and Haworth halfbacks, Whittaker, Somers, Dewhurst, Blackburn, and Briercliffe, forwards. Play opened in brisk fashion, each end being quickly visited in turn. Sharp looked like getting though, but was eventually hustled off the ball, and a free kick shortly afterwards against Boyle threatened danger until Blackburn headed over. The Everton centre half a few minutes later put in a capital high shot, which called forth the best efforts of Whittaker to keep out. Oldham followed with a shot which, the custodian also managed to save, and following some smart play by the Rovers the Everton goal had a narrow escape. Balmer came to the rescue with a strong kick, but returning again Briercliffe had the better of a tussle with the Evertonians and put in a swinging cross shot, which however was allowed to go abegging. Several openings were missed by both sets of forwards, and at the interval nothing had been scored. On resuming the Rovers right wing pair, put in some clever work, but there was no finish to their movement-a defect that was also notice able at the visitors end, where Boyle with a clear opening shot high. Most of the attack came from the outside right man. Whittaker and Sharp the better after sprinting grandly down, was however tripped up when about to shoot. The free kick came to nothing, but shortly afterwards the Evertonians was again in evidence, and his efforts were duty appreciated by the crowd, as he finished up with a magnificent shot, which Whittaker as brilliantly saved. Play was languid in the extreme, and an effort to improve matters was resorted to. Oldham went centre forward, and for some little time the change worked well. As the end approached determined attempt was made to lower the Rovers colours but their defence held out gallantly, and when time arrived the result stood- Everton nil, Rovers nil.

BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 0
April 2 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
At Blackburn, before 2,000 spectators. The Rovers had slightly the better of the first half. Waring missing the post by inches and Swift nearly scoring. Everton then pressed for a considerable time, but could not score while Crook in a breakaway had hard lines with a grand effort. At the interval there was no score. In the second half the Rovers pressed hard forcing several corners but could not score, Result Rovers 0 Everton 0. (Game 24) Everton: - Kitchen goal, Eccles, and Watson backs, Cowell, Green and Blythe halfback, Roche Dawson Proudfoot, Chadwick (a) and Gray, forwards .

EVERTON REVIEW
April 2 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Is there any likelihood of the Everton team scoring another goal this season ? This is a question they may well be asked after the display given against the Rovers. A week ago, 90 minutes were played without a goal being scored, when Everton were supposed to be represented by their strongest side. This caused the team's selectors to make a sweeping change in the personnel of the front rank with the result that another 90 minutes was productive of the same barren result. Three hours work and not a single point of any sort to show for it is, to put the matter mildly most disappointing. There is no question of hard luck about this failure; a continual missing of the mark by inches or other similar annoyances; nothing but the downright incompetence of the whole bunch of attacking when in front of goal, is the solution to the puzzle. In midfield the forwards do not shape at all badly, but as soon as they get within shooting distance their ability vanishes, and the strength of their onslaught quailing presumably before the ardent gaze of the opposing custodian, fizzles away into a limp and useless mass. The weaknesses of the previous Saturday were not remedied by the changes made in the team to represent the club against the Rovers. Nay in some instances, notably at left back and inside left, the alterations intensified rather than remedied the earlier defects. But, as before mentioned, the chief drawback to the team's success is the inability or if preferable, the unwillingness of the forwards to get goals. It should be borne in mind by these latter that the space guarded by the vigilant custodian is necessarily of limited dimensions, and also those opposing defenders are not expected to allow forwards ample time to survey the scenery when near goal, and the opportunity to shoot without being rudely bustled off the ball just when a nice chance presents itself. If these conditions were only reversed and if backs would act in a more languid and delicate manner towards them, there is some probability that the Everton forwards would in the course of time begin to take heart and put on goals. It has been often stated that the club this season possessed class players, but this phrase is very ambiguous for the number of the class was never mentioned. Their two most recent exhibitions will, however have amply settled this point in the minds of most followers of the game who will hereafter be able to fully substantiate the truth of the above quotation. No surprise was evinced at their failure to defeat the Rovers; such are the uses of adversity; and it was fortunate for Everton that Dewhurst, who scored an apparently splendid goal in the last minute, was adjudged offside. The only dangerous part of the Everton attack came from Sharp, who was too speedy for Hardy and after one of these bursts along the wing, he finished with a splendid shot, which Whittaker cleared with equal brilliancy. Oldham would have been more useful in the centre instead of being played at inside left and in fact, actually demonstrated this when late on the game, he took up this position. McDonald made a very fair debut, Toman might just as well have been on the Rovers side for the majority of his passes went to one of the visitors and Gee though showing improvement upon the previous week's display was as usual absolutely useless, when near the goal post. The halfbacks division was not one whit in advance of the front rank. One of the greatest failure was Abbott put as a matter of fact there was little to choose between any of the trio. There is no harmony between the two front lines, and until some sort of understandings is arrived at the same bungling and inefficient play is bound to be the result. Further behind, Crelly was feeble, but Balmer stood out conspicuously and fortunately for his side covered the mistakes of his confreres in forcible fashion. Both the custodian accomplished what they were called upon to perform in good style, and in Whittaker the Rovers appear to have obtained a very useful man. Their halves were more persistent than the home backs, Booth rendering splendid service by his untiring and realous efforts. The front rank was smart, but indulged in too much passing, and like the home forwards was of little use when in front of Muir. The best shots of the afternoon came from the halfbacks, but on the outside right Whittaker indulged in several tricky runs, which however, was always rendered abortive at the finish. To the Rovers the point thus gained would be extremely welcome for it meant another step from the second division. As matters now stand Everton are little better off but they have the consolation of knowing that if their fortunes do change it must be towards an improvement for further progress in the opposite direction is an utter impossibility.

ANOTHER MEDIOCRE DISPLAY BY EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 02 April 1900
By The Loiterer
The attractions at Aintree proved more magnetic than the prospects of a football match at Goodison Park, and the crowd was much below the proportions anticipated when Everton are engaged at home. No doubt the disappointing form exhibited by the latter has been responsible for the attenuated gates, and anything in the shape of exhilarating sport would be welcomed as a necessary change from the miserable displays that are served up for the delectation of the Liverpool public at Goodison Park. In consequence of the feeble exhibition given the previous Saturday against the “Wolves” the Everton selection committee had no other option than to make a whole-sale change in the constitution of the team. New goods and renovated old stock were brought together, but the heterogenous mixture utterly failed to dazzle the beholder, nay, it scarcely threw even a glamour of light over the somewhat sarcastic assemblage. The Rovers naturally played for all they were worth, and if the Everton men did the same their market value would be at a tremendous discount. However, the appended list will better serve the purpose of handing down to posterity the combinations that upheld the honour of Everton and the Rovers respectively in this encounter;-
Everton.- Muir, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, McDonald, Oldham, and Gee, forwards.
Blackburn Rovers;- Whittaker, goal; Crompton and Hardy, backs; Anderson, Booth, and Howarth, half-backs; Whittaker, Somers, Dewhurst, Blackburn, and Briercliffe, forwards. Referee; Mr. T. Helme. A subdued tone seemed to prevail throughout the enclosure when McDonald started operations, which conveyed the impression that the crowd were prepared to face any emergency in a philosophic spirit. One never knowns what to expect from Everton, and the worst has resulted so frequently that sanguine anticipations were held down with a firm grip. Of the game itself there is little to record. The Rovers were the better team in the first half, and the Everton goal had a narrow escape from Briercliffe’s centre. The ball came straight across the goalmouth and the Everton backs waited for each other to clear, with the usual result, that neither touched the leather, and left Somers an open goal. The latter evidently did not care about the responsibility of opening the coring, and after a miniature Rugby scrummage, a clearance was somehow effected. The forwards on both sides were wretchedly weak in front of goal, and the best shot of this half came from Booth, who sent the ball just over the bar at lightning speed. Although the Rovers made a desperate rally just before half-time there was nothing definite obtained before the interval, and nothing afterwards for that matter, beyond a few clever sprints by Sharp, a wholesale middling of his centres, and an
OFF-SIDE GOAL SCORED BY DEWHURST IN THE LAST MINUTE
Which was a very near thing indeed. Thus a barren game ended in a fruitless draw, a result which neither side could object to, though the Rovers certainly deserve the more credit, for they were on an opponent’s territory, which in these days of keen competition often means a great deal. If the Everton directors are not heartily sick of the performances of their team, the public are rapidly becoming so. Two successive displays like those given against the “Wolves” and the Rovers are almost sufficient to drive the average enthusiast away in disgust. It is pretty clear that the club’s reserve force is practically of very little utility, and the team which did duty in this match was of such an uneven quality that it seems almost impossible that it could ever be combined into a strong and serviceable force. Smart efforts by the strong members of the side often led up to a nice opening, but when the strain was applied at the precise moment for scoring, the cord snapped, the weak portions demonstrating their inability to hold the movement together. One point was clearly proved by the vagaries of the Everton front rank, namely, that Oldham is not a wing player. Last season, and indeed when he has operated this year in the League team in the centre, he has proved a very useful man. Whatever was the reason for removing him from this point on to inside left is best known to those who have the duty of choosing the side. When the second half had considerably progressed he was transferred to his customary place, and the Everton forward line was more dangerous from this juncture than it had ever been previously in the game. Combination and passing, which one expects from a club of Everton’s pretensions, were alike anting, and in most cases the ball when transferred went direct to one of the visitors. The only exhilarating bits of play given came from Sharp, who indulged in a few sprints, and twice got a clear course, but at last, failed to pierce the defence, Whittaker on one occasion saving in splendid style a stinging shot from short range. But the great weakness in the front rank was, and has been throughout the season.
THE UTTER INEPTITUDE SHOWN WHEN NEAR GOAL
Only five clubs have scored fewer goals than Everton in their League games, and this feebleness was demonstrated in forcible fashion against the Rovers. The halves were up to their usual moderate standard, and until these two lines act more in harmony with each other, improvement will be looked for in vain. It was fortunate for Everton that Balmer was in trim, for Crelly gave a very weak display, and his partner had repeatedly to come across to the rescue. The Rovers were more alert than their opponents, but when it came to a case of shooting there was nothing to choose between the contending sides. The right wing was smart, and indulged in several neat movements, but it was at half where the Rovers’ superiority was chiefly noticeable. Booth played a rare game in the centre, working like a trojan, and the veteran Anderson was always prominent with effective head work. There were two Whittakers in team, and both are smart players. The youngster who operated on the outside right, and the custodian, rendered excellent service, and the latter’s save from Sharp was as fine a clearance as any one could desire to see.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 02 April 1900
By The Loiterer
I should say the Everton directors are in a bit of a fix in selecting a team to do duty for them. They have tried to improve weak spots before without any tangible result, and on Saturday went in for drastic changes without the desired effect. The captain, Taylor, was dropped, which is something new, as he was one of the few players who took part in the whole of the League matches last season, and had not missed one this season before. Then there was Molyneux and Proudfoot besides, but the men who took their places were no improvement, as the general play of the team was just as loose as ever. Fortunately the team are well placed with fairly easy matches to come, and I should say they will improve their position in the League table. But there is no getting over this fact, that they are disappointing their supporters.

EVERTON v.  BLACKBURN ROVERS
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 02 April 1900
Owing perhaps to the counter-attraction at Aintree there was not by any means so large a crowd as usual at Goodison Park. There was a great change in the Everton as compared with the previous week, several of the “stars” standing down for various reasons. The home captain having lost the toss for choice of positions, McDonald kicked off towards the Park goal. A beautiful passage between Toman and Sharp led to the Evertonians being first in evidence, the move being spoiled by the sharp tactics of Booth. The Rovers now went down in force, Haworth and Anderson each testing Muir, who came off best. A strong run was then made by the home left wing. Whittaker having to clear from Oldham, who a little later on shot hard across the goalmouth. On the opposite wing Sharp sped along gaily, although closely  hampered by Booth. The right winger got the leather of the argument, and effected a splendid centre, which was footed away by Hardy from the front of goal, the last-named a moment later giving a corner, which failed to yield anything tangible to the attacking party. A further burst was made by the hometsers, but eventually Briercliffemade off on the Rovers’ left wing, but was brought to book by Balmer and then Crelly effectively checked Somers and his right hand supporter when they were making straight for goal. A wonderfully strong attack was then made by the home side, Oldham finishing one dash forward by shooting over the crossbar. Then Gee all but put the ball and goalkeeper into the net, after which Sharp brought the leather back, and the Rovers’ goal was hotly bombarded. The Rovers then succeeded in making the game very warm in the Everton half. They gained a corner on the left, but this was quickly cleared. Then a free kick was taken by the Rovers, from which Booth nearly scored. A rush by Everton placed the Rovers’ defence in hot water for a while, but although the attacking forces worked desperately hard, all that came was a barren corner. McDonald was checkmated by Crompton when close in, and then Boyle dropped a lovely shot into Whittaker’s hands. The visitors worked down very prettily, a splendid pass from Haworth being taken by Briercliffe, who was immediately given off side. The opposite wing than gained a corner, following which Booth had a further pot at goal. Another dash by Sharp gained a corner for Everton, and subsequently the Blackburn goal was very closely invested, but notwithstanding all the vigorous and well-timed efforts of the Everton forwards, they failed to find an opening. At the other end of the field Abbott saved what appeared likely to prove a certain goal from Briercliffe, who shortly afterwards again let fly and sent the leather spinning over the crossbar. Gee replied with a strong run and shot, which went behind, after which McDonald obtained possession and sent in a terrific shot to Whittaker, the Everton man being pronounced offside as he was giving impetus to the ball. Nevertheless, Whittaker succeeded in fisting the sphere away, this in itself being a great performance. End to end play ensued during which Somers once dropped the ball over the Everton cross bar, but this was the only feature in what may be termed a series of disappointing moves. When half-time came there was no score. Dewhurst restated, and it was some little time before either side was able to make any impression. The Evertonians were the first to break the ice, but their move ended in a fizzle. A more businesslike attempt was made by the Rovers, who was spoiled by one of their players being guilty of a breach of rule. Suddenly the home contingent became very brisk, and they gave the spectators a treat in the way of a brilliant passage from left to right. Sharp at the finish sent in a grand shot low down, and, after a moment’s hesitation, McDonald placed the ball over the bar. This was a pretty piece of work, and certainly deserved better luck. From this point, however, the play was of a somewhat disappointing character, and though frequent openings for scoring presented themselves none were taken advantage of, and the result was a draw -neither side having scored. Teams;- Everton.- Muir, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, McDonald, Oldham, and Gee, forwards. Blackburn Rovers;- Whittaker, goal; Crompton, and Hardy, backs; Anderson, Booth, and Howarth, half-backs; Whittaker, Somers, Dewhurst, Blackburn, and Briercliffe, forwards.

LIVERPOOL CUP.-SEMI-FINAL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 02 April 1900
EVERTON COMBINATION v HUDSON’S
For this tie at Goodison Park this evening, the following will play for Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Eccles and Crelley, backs; Gordon, Green, and Blythe, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Proudfoot, Gray, and Chadwick, forwards. Kick-off 5.30. the following will represent Hudson’s;- Martin, goal; MacFarlane, and Ledger, backs; Williams, Marr, and Ferris, half-backs; Askin, Cunningham, Howard, Lloyd, and Crook, forwards.

LIVERPOOL SENIOR CUP -SEMI-FINAL
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 03 April 1900
The right to contest the final tie in the Liverpool Senior Cup competition was decided last evening at Goodison Park, when the Everton reserve team beat Hudson’s somewhat easily by 3 goals to nil, and they thus oppose New Brighton Tower in the final. The weather was favourable and there was a good attendance.

LIVRPOOL CUP. SEMI-FINAL TIE
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 03 April 1900
This tie took place last evening at Goodison Park, before a good attendance. Hudson’s started play being of a give and take order for the first few minutes. Everton then assumed the aggressive, and Hudson’s goal was subjected to a warm attack, and although for some considerable time Ledger and McFarlane defended capitally Proudfoot at length succeeded in placing the ball beyond the reach of Martin. From the centre the visitors broke away, and made great efforts to equalise, but the home defence was of a stonewall charcater, and their attempts to notch a point proved futile. A corner then fell to the Blues, which Roche placed beautifully, but McFarlane had little difficulty in clearing, Hudson’s then took the ball to the other end, where Kitchen was called upon to save. The Evertonians again took up the attack, and Proudfoot defeated Martin with a splendid shot, the same player a few minutes later nearly doing the trick for a third time. Nothing further was scored to the interval, at which time the score stood in favour of Everton by 3 goals to nil. On changing ends Everton at once made off in the direction of the visitors’ goal, Martin saving a good shot from Roche. Midfield play followed for a little time, and then Hudson’s got down and forced a corner, nothing resulting therefrom. The game ended in a victory for Everton by 3 goals to nil. Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 03 April 1900

EVERTON TEAMS
Liverpool Daily Post – Friday 06 April 1900
EVERTON v.  DERBY COUNTY
For this League match at Derby to-morrow, the following have been selected to play for Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Blythe, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Abbott, and Taylor, forwards. The team leaves the Central Station at 9.30, and the kick-off is 3 p.m.
EVERTON COMBINATION v. PARK ROAD
In this Lancashire Combination match at Goodison Park to-morrow, Everton will be represented by the following;- Kitchen, goal; Watson and Molyneux, backs; B. Sharp, Green, and Gordon, half-backs; Roche, McDonald, Oldham, Gray, and Chadwick, forwards. Kick-off 3,30.

PRESTON NORTH END RESEVE v EVERTON RESERVE
Manchester Courier - Friday 06 April 1900
At Deepdale yesterday. Playing with a strong wind Everton scored within the first ten minutes through Gordon. They had afterwards much the best of the play and would have augmented the score but for the smartness of the Preston custodian. Proudfoot and McDonald missed easy opportunities but Gray registered a second point after 25 minutes. Nothing further was done although both sides had chances. Half-time; Everton 2 North End 0.
In the second moiety the homesters played desperately hard, but shot weakly. Towards the close play was exciting and interesting. Everton thoroughly deserved their victory.
Full time; Everton reserves 2 Preston North End Reserves 0.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Liverpool Mercury – Friday 06 April 1900
PRESTON NORTH END RESERVE v.  EVERTON RESERVE
At Deepdale, yesterday, before 1,000 spectators. In the initial half play was fast and exciting. Everton, playing with a stiff breeze, pressing hard. Gordon scored from a foul in the first minute, Gray scoring a second after 25 minutes. Half-time; Everton 2; Preston nil. In the second moiety the homesters played desperately hard, but shot weakly, and although Everton were hard pressed, Kitchen by good custodianship kept his charge intact. Stansfield hit the upright, and Proudfoot missed two certain goals. Play was exciting and interesting thoroughly deserving victory. Result Everton Reserves 2 goals, North End Reserve, nil.

TODAYS FIXTURES
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 07 April 1900
Everton journey to Derby to decide the return game with the County. When at Goodison Park the Peakities were treated to about the best exposition given by the unsatisfactory Everton team this season, this being almost the only occasion on which the forwards have shown any deadliness in front of goal. By three goals to nil were they victorious; but the effort, judged by the light of recent events, seems to have bene too much for them, and the recovery has yet to be demonstrated. Last year an abnormal scoring game resulted in a draw of five goals each, on the Baseball Grounds, and if Everton can succeeded in equalising the feat of dividing the honours they will give satisfaction. If beaten, their position in the League table will be deplorable.
Derby County v Everton, Referee J.H. Strawson. Everton;- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Blythe, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Abbott and Taylor, forwards. Kick-off three p.m.

DERBY COUNTY 2 EVERTON 1
April 9 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team, weakened by the absence of Balmer and Settle opposed Derby County on the baseball ground on Saturday. The home side also suffered from absenteeism for Bloomer was taking part in the international contest, and Staley was not included in the rearguard while a trail was given to Stewart of Dundee. Owing to the race meeting the attendance was limited for as the outside there would not be more than 5,000 spectators present. The sides lined up as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Eccles and Watson backs Wolstenholmes, Boyle and Blythe halfbacks, Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Abbott, and Taylor (captain), forwards. Derby County: - Fryer, goal, Mmethven and Goodall backs Warren, Leckie and May halfbacks, Arkesden, Wombwell, Boag, Shanks and Stewart, forwards. The wind favoured the Derby, and during the first few minutes a couple of corners kicks threatened disaster to the Everton goal. Muir got the ball when Leckie with a long shot drove over the line. Sharp then made off, and though pulled up by Goodall, he was again in possession, and parted to Toman, who placed behind. Again the Everton outside right had the better of a bout with the opposing halves, and wending his way across sent in a capital shot, with his left foot, and opened the scoring 15 minutes from the start. Getting to work again, the Derby forwards became aggressive but lost a couple of chances by faulty passing when nearing goal. Shanks on the left and Arkesden on the right put in several fine runs only to find their centres not received and once again the Everton right wing was prominent. Proudfoot supplemented the movement, but unfortunately, shot over, and during the next few minutes the Everton custodian was kept busily employed, Boyle and Watson twice headed out dangerous shots. The home right was now most aggressive and sanding across Stewart gave Muir a difficult shot to dispose of. Following a further breakaway Abbott unfortunately kicked the wrong way, and after Wombwell had lobbed the ball to Stewart, who was palpably offside, put the ball into the net, thus equalizing. Succeeding play up to the interval was evenly distributed, and when ends were changed the scores stood one goal each. Everton went off with a dash upon resuming but it was shortived, and following a free kick, Leckie placed the ball well up to Shanks who tamely kicked towards goal. Watson misjudged its direction, and thus practically gave the County a leading point. A clinking shot from Proudfoot called for Fryer's best efforts to save. Abbott and Sharp also came near scoring, and a few minutes later on Toman shot in, but all attempts lacked string, and Fryer was enabled to save with ease. Eventually Wombwell and Arkesden led on a movement, which ended in Boag shooting into the net, the point however, being disallowed for offside. Towards the finish the Evertonians were well held in check and as nothing further was scored, Derby won somewhat luckily by two goals to one.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 BLACKBURN PARK ROAD 1
April 9 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
At Goodison Park. Bland started for Blackburn, who scored a soft goal two minutes from the opening. Kitchen left his goal to clear and missed his kick and Morris dashing up netted the ball. After half an hour Sharp equalised with a gained long shot. Halftime Everton 1 goal Blackburn park Road 1. A few minutes after the restart McDonald put Everton in front. Subsequently Oldham and Sharp scored result Everton 4 goals Park road 1. (Game 26)

EVERTON REVIEW
April 9 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Surely Everton is a most disappointing team. Just when one expects the players to rise to the occasion and make emends for what might practically be considered a couple of successive reverses at home they literally tumble to pieces and allow a very mixed combination to annex the full quota of points. True there was an elements of bad fortune which led to their downfall, but at the same time there never was presented to a team that has donned the Everton colours so many opportunities of piling of goals, and thus place the issue far beyond doubt, than on Saturday last. The general play of the forwards despite the shifting of positions, was all that could be desired up to a certain point, which has now become quite an established weakness in their performances. In front of goal their efforts were miserably poor, and with a very ordinary defence again them the feebleness of their display was greatly accentuated. Everton's only hope was from the right wing, and while drawing a veil over the display of the van generally, passing reference must be made to Sharp, who for resource and general utility stood out prominently above his confreres. There was certainly an improvement in the halfway line upon that which, has recently been witnessed, though that thorough understanding which should exist between the halves and forwards is still not a prominent feature of the game. During the whole of the first and the greater portion of the second half, Wolstenholmes played a capital game, and little exception could be taken to the display of Boyle who fairly nonplussed Boag, and Blythe, and under ordinary circumstances their good work would undoubtedly have been turned to better advantage. The absence of Balmer, who, like Settle is on the sick list was of course a serious disadvantage to the club, and it goes without saying that had the popular local lad been in his accustomed position, a reverse would never have been meted out to the club. At full back Eccles was partnered by Watson, a recruit from Dundee and taking into consideration the strange associations, their play did not suffer much by comparison with that of their opponents. Eccles played a hard untiring game, and for a first appearance in League football. Watson came out fairly well. while his kicking is clean and well directed he is apt to hesitate at a critical moment, and more than once ran the risk of endangering his goal. He should have prevented the second point, which gave the County the lead; still, front what could be gathered, he should with careful nursing turn out a serviceable player to the club. Muir was, as usual, quite equal to everything that came his way, he having no chance whatever of keeping out the two shots that found the net. As mentioned at the outset, the team had not the best of fortunate'sfavours extended them, for the first goal which the County scored was the outcome of a most glaring case of offside, which to a novice of the game would present no difficulty as to deciding upon the matter. Referee Strawson took no notice of a strong appeal by the Everton players, and on pointing to the centre of the field the Derby spectators evidently more surprised than the player could not but give full vent to their astonishment. The second goal was of a fluky character for it simply rolled past Watson into the net; the player being evidently under the impression that it was passing wide of the post. The goal scored by Sharp was a clever effort from a fairly long range; and was about the only decent finish to any movement by either set of players. The County front rank was on a par with that of their opponents. Their passing was poor and final efforts faulty, and only promising work came from the wingmen. They however, excelled in the manner in which they swooped down upon the goal and judging by recent events, one can readily imagine that it would have to be a very moderate line that could not give Everton a lead in this respect. The halves were a hardworking trio, Warren and may being often prominent but the full backs did nothing above the ordinary and it was fortunate that Fryer covered them as ably as he did. It was a poor game, and the weakened team of the County must consider themselves fortunate in encountering their opponents in one of their least effective moods. Success in the holiday fixtures at Goodison Park would do much to resuscitate an interest that been on the wane during the past months.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATRION
Athletic News- Monday April 9 1900
PRESTON NORTH END v.  EVERTON
After their meritorious victory over Preston Everton Reserves were at home on Saturday to Blackburn Park Road, and booked another brace of points. The Parkites started well, and within a couple of minutes from the kick-off were one goal up, though it was a veritable gift. Kitchen needlessly ran out to clear a long shot, kicked over the ball, with the result that an opponent who was lying handy secured it and kicked it safely through the open space. The visitors didn’t get another chance like that, however, being chiefly on the defence afterwards, Hill kept goal so well, however, that half-an-hour elapsed before Sharp equalised. The teams were level at the interval, but afterwards Everton shot better, and when McDonald took the lead the game was safe. Everton ultimately winning by 4 goals to 1. The feature of the match was the display of the Park Road goalkeeper, who was a marvel for his inches.

A POOR GAME AT DERBY
Athletic News - Monday 09 April 1900
By Peakite
If we count too confidently on high-class exhibitions of football in April we are apt to be disappointed, and I am sadly afraid a good many visitors to the Baseball Ground on Saturday would go home with the idea that they had very indifferent value for their money. Everton, the team of all the disappointments, were the visitors on the occasion, and each side was short of a prominent player. Bloomer, of course, was away at Glasgow, and Balmer was replaced on the Everton side by Watson, a recruit from Dundee. Curiously enough Derby County were also giving a trial to a new player, and he too came from Dundee. He answered to the name of Stewart, and played on the outside left. There was another rearrangement of places on the Derby side, Archie Goodall playing full back with Methven, whilst Warren, a youngster from the second team, joined the half-backs. Warren, I may say, comes from Swadlincote, a South Derbyshire colliery village lying between Newhall and Church Gresley, the former being known to fame as the birthplace of John Staley, and the latter of Joe Hulme. So far as I know, these places possess no other claims to distinction. There was a comparatively early kick-off, but with the weather rather threatening, it was hardly surprising to find that the attendance was only about 6,000. The players were as follows;-
Derby County.- Fryer, goal; Methven and A. Goodall, backs; Warren, Leckie, and May, half-backs; Arkesden, Wombwell, Boag, Shanks, and Stewarts, forwards.
Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Blythe, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Abbott and Taylor, forwards. Mr. Strawson was the referee, and when he started the game Everton kicked off towards the Barracks goal. There was precious little in it for a time, and when Everton did get away they were pulled up without much difficulty. Nevertheless they managed to obtain the first point, as at the end of seventeen minutes play Sharp worked his way round May and scored a beautiful goal. I cannot say that I was greatly impressed with the efforts made by Derby County to equalise the scores, and they really never looked like doing anything of the kind until Wombwell dropped the ball over Eccles’s head at Stewart’s feet, and the latter had the easiest of tasks to steer it into the net. Much to Muir’s disgust Mr. Strawson pointed to the centre, and from where the reporters sat there was very good ground for the disappointment so openly expressed by the Evertonians. Nothing more was done between this and the interval, but the second half had a remarkable opening. Only a very few minutes’ play had been witnessed when from a free kick Shanks headed the ball into goal. Watson looked to have heaps of time to clear, but he failed altogether, and before Muir could get to his assistance the ball was in the net. It was altogether one of the luckiest goals I ever witnessed, but it gave Derby the lead, and encouraged them to play up in much smarter fashion than they had done all through the game. They forced any number of corners, but Muir was not to be caught napping again, and one of his saves from May was a real beauty. The County forwards half-way through went down in a body, and Arkesden getting in a fine centre off the line, Boag scored a beautiful goal, Mr. Strawson disallowed the point, but in my humble opinion a better goal was never scored. Derby, generally speaking, had the best of the play in this half, but neither they nor Everton could score again, a poorish game ended in a victory for Derby by two goals to one. The home team were certainly lucky to win, as their two goals were decidedly “off.” Against this, however, has to be set the fact that they had the best of the game, and that they had a fine goal disallowed. There was really not a great deal to choose between the teams. The Derby defence was perhaps better than that of Everton- a fact which was due to the obvious weakness of Watson, who made a very poor first appearance. Archie Goodall run a deal, but he and Methven were the better pair of backs. Methven quite the best man in his position field. The halves on either side were on an equality, and I was please to see excellent show made by Watson who absolutely does not know the word fear, and struck me has a promising young player. The forwards, individually, were clever, their Derby rivals, but the latter to have a better understanding of each other., and with a little better work would have scored some goals. Stewartplayed fairly well and will certainly get another trail. Had Bloomer been in the team I fancy he would have had good time with Watson.

EVERTON v  DERBY COUNTY
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 09 April 1900
The Everton players left the Central Station early on Saturday morning under the charge of Mr. Tom Keates and Secretary Molyneux. Derby being reached shortly before twelve o’clock. The weather was beautifully fine and sunny, and the usually sleepy town was quite alive, the local race meeting being held, and attracting many visitors Everton were represented by a rather mixed eleven. There were several changes in the County ranks. As the afternoon progressed the sky clouded over, and there was every indication of rain. Everton started, and the County at once made off at top speed down the right wing, Eccles rushing across and saving at the expense of a corn er. This was cleared. A minute later Watson let in Boag who shot strongly, Muir clearing at the expense of a fruitless corner. Centre play ensued, but the game was very tame, and nothing happened until the home forwards made tracks for Muir. Both backs were beaten, and a clinking shot was sent in, which, however, struck Boag, and glanced over the crossbar. The visitors again took up the attack, but the forwards lacked dash, and the movement ended in Sharp putting the ball behind. Still they kept in front of Fryer, and both Methven and Goodall were given something to do until Wolstenholme from a long range shot over. A break away by the home left came to nothing, Eccles twice checking them, and the game continued to progress at a slow rate. The County forwards at length wakened up, and running the ball down Boag had a fine chance, when he let Wolstenholme clear. Maintaining an aggressive attitude, the County men kept the home defence busy, Boyle at length getting relief. Abbott and Taylor ran along, and the ball was swung across to Sharp, who dribbled cleverly and then sent in a very swift ground shot that completely beat Fryer, who fell in attempting to stop it. This success came after the game had been in progress just under twenty minutes. The reverse stirred the home team to action, and twice Stewart and Shanks ran down, the former on the second occasion shooting just wide. After this the Everton forwards put in some exceedingly pretty passing, and Sharp again tried his luck, but this time Fryer was equal to the occasion. The home right then dashed down, and Watson was easily beaten. Wombwell putting in a warm one that struck the outside of the upright. Play now opened out somewhat, both sides attacking in turn, but without effect. May on one occasion shooting over the bar. The County then forced a corner, but this was nullified by Warren sending outside. Everton pressed in turn, and Bole sent in a fine one, which Fryer had some difficulty in successfully coping with. The home forwards subsequently enjoyed a sustained attack upon Muir’s charge, and twice Watson cleared smartly. Boyle afterwards removing play to the other end, where Taylor and Abbott were busy for a time, but without success. Then Sharp put one in, Proudfoot getting it, and sending it high over the bar. The County once more took up the attack, and from a pass by Leckie Stewart was given practically an open goal, but he missed the ball altogether. A minute later, however, he repaired the mistake. Wombwell sent across, and Stewart, who was lying right up, got hold and placed the ball into the corner of the net. Everton appealed for offside, but the referee allowed the goal, greatly to the delight of the crowd. After this Everton attacked strongly for a time, Boag had a splendid chance of scoring, when he missed his kick. Just before the interval Everton pressed, but Proudfoot nulled a good opportunity and the home forwards returning Boag shot right into Muir’s hands. Half-time; Everton 1 goal, Derby County 1 goal. Resuming, Derby attacked, and Wolstenholme booked out a beautiful centre from Wombwell, whilst from a corner May skimmed the upright. Directly afterwards Shanks scored a soft goal, Watson being at fault and the ball going through in the further corner. Everton retaliated, and Proudfoot shot in hard, but May cleared. Fryer was hard pressed directly after, and tipped over a beauty from Abbott. Result;- Derby County 2 goals, Everton 1. Teams;- Everton;- Muir, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Blythe, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Abbott, and Taylor, forwards. Derby County;- Fryer, goal; Methven, and Goodall, backs; Warren, Leckie, and May, half-backs; Arkesden, Wombwell, Boag, Shanks, and Stuart, forwards.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 10 April 1900
BLACKBURN PARK ROAD v  EVERTON RESERVE
Played at Blackburn last night. The home team proved aggressive in the first half, but were unlucky. The game was stopped for a few minutes owing to an injury to Blackshaw. Just before the interval Gee scored a good goal for Everton. In the second half play was exciting, the home team trying hard to score, but Muir was safe in goal. Heywood failed to score with a penalty for the Roadsters. Chadwick scored a second goal for Everton. Result; Everton 2 goals; Blackburn Park Road nil.

EVERTON’S EASTER ARRNAGEMENT
Liverpool Daily Post – Friday 13 April 1900
The supporters of the Everton club are to have a full programme provided for them during the Easter holidays, as to-day (Good Friday) a friendly match between the two local clubs is to be played at Goodison Park, the kick-off being fixed at two o’clock. Tomorrow Bury make their appearance to decide the return League fixture between the two clubs, the first game ending in a win for Bury by 4 goals to 1. A more interesting fixture than this could not possibly have bene arranged, as it will give the Liverpool public an opportunity of judging as to the chances of success the Bury team have a week hence when they play the final of the English Cup at Crystal Palace; while, on the other hand, Everton are bound to put forth every possible effort to gain full points seeing their critical position in the League tables. The kick-off is at 3.30. The following team will do duty for the homesters to-day;- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle and Gray, forwards. On Monday Glossop appear in a League engagement, which it is to be hoped, will provide the home team with a further opportunity of annexing points. Kick-off two o’clock. The above team will also represent Everton in both League matches, with the exception that Taylor will play in place of Gray.
LIVERPOOL v  EVERTON
The following will represent Liverpool against Everton to-day, at Goodison Park;- Parkins, goal; Bond and Dunlop, backs; Howell, Raisbeck, and Goldie, half-backs; Robertson, Hunter, Serrier, Satterthwaite, and Cox, forwards.
LIVERPOOL v  EVERTON (COMBINATION)
The following have been selected for Liverpool against Everton to-day, at Anfield;- Storer,goal; Stevenson, and McLaren, backs; Martin, Hunter, and Birchall, half-backs; Soulsty, Parker, Kyle, Morgan, and Foxall, forwards.

FERRIER APPEALS FOR LIVERPOOL
April 14, 1900. The Courier & Argus
Everton v. Liverpool
This was a friendly fixture at Goodison Park yesterday, 5,000 people attending. On Liverpool side there were two new players, Bond of Ripley, and Ferrier of Montrose. In the first half Robertson scored for Liverpool, and Sharp ad Proudfoot for Everton. There was little seriousness in the game. McDonald scored a third goal for Everton, Final Result; Everton 3, Liverpool, 1.

EVERTON 3 LIVERPOOL 1
April 14 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
In marked contrast to previous seasons, the ‘'gate'' at Goodison Park was yesterday of very limited proportion, the boisterous weather, not to mention the unsatisfactory progress of the clubs in League football, no doubt accounting for the very poor support accorded the meeting of this local teams. In the Everton McDonald filled team a further trial was given to Watson, late of Dundee, and Settle's position on the left wing. Liverpool tried two players, Ferrier of Monntrose a centre forward, and Bond of Ripley, as right full back, while Raybould filled the centre half position, and Hunter and Howell, inside right and right half respectively. At two o'clock the teams faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Eccles and Watson backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor (captain) forwards. Liverpool: - Perkins goal, Bond and Dunlop, backs, Howell, Raybound, and Goldie (w), halfbacks Robertson, Hunter, Ferrier, Satterthwaite, and Cox forwards. The choice of ends favoured Everton and having the assistance of a strong breeze were the first to make a determined attack. Sharp ran well down, when Bond put in a clever kick and after some uninteresting end to end plays, Liverpool attacked in a body and Robertson scored the first goal. The friendly character of the contest was evinced by the gently efforts of the players, but after a combined movement on the Everton right wing, Goldie robbed Sharp, and passed to Dunlop to clear. The latter failed to see the move, and Sharp rushing up easily equalised. A somewhat prolonged attack on the Liverpool goal followed, Four Corners failing in rapid succession to the home side, but Perkins saved in fine style, and McDonald hitting the post with a tremendous drive relieved the pressure. A hard drive from Abbott was luckily headed over by Ferrier, and a moment later Proudfoot dallied when a clear opening was presented. The Liverpool forwards rarely made headway, but eventually Cox raced away, and Muir had to run out to clear. Close on the change of ends, Proudfoot scored the second goal, and when the whistle blew Everton led by 2 goals to 1. The game was resumed without delay, and Robertson sprinting gaily along centred, Ferrier failing with a fast low shot to find the net. Perkins saved smartly from Proudfoot and from a nice pass by Hunter, Ferrier with only Muir to beat, was dispossessed before he could get in his shot. Everton by clever footwork on the part of Abbott became aggressive, and Mcdonald rushing in, defeated Perkins with a capital effort. The Liverpool forwards for some few minutes hovered dangerous round Muir's charge, but the back kept their positron intact, and the home custodian was not troubled to any appreciate extent. At length McDonald led the way to the other end, and put in a couple of very fine shots, his second effort justed skimming the bar. The play was now of a more interesting character and the spectators were not lacking in their appreciation. Another forward movement resulted in McDonald from a difficult position shooting into the hands of Perkins, and immediately following Muir was called up, to Robertson, and brought off a particularly clever save. The Liverpool forwards now showed much improved play and plenty of employment was found for the home backs. It was some time that the Everton forwards got into their stride, but tame shots characterised their final efforts, and Perkins had no difficulty in saving. Close on the finish Muir brought off a smart save from a bully in front of his charge. Nothing further was scored, and the game ended Everton 3 goals Liverpool 1.

LIVERPOOL RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
April 14 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Most interest was centred in the meeting of these teams yesterday afternoon at Anfield, in consequence of the close association of the clubs at the head of the competitive table. Everton with four points ahead of their opponents though two games in hand, were looked upon as strong favourites, and to achieve their object put a strong team in the field. There were about 12,000 spectators on the ground when the teams faced as follows: - Liverpool: - Storer, goal, Stevenson, and McLaren, backs, Birchall, Hunter (j). and Martin halfbacks Soulsbery, Parkinson, Kyle Morgan and Foxall, forwards. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Crelly and Molyneux backs, Gordon, Green, and Blythe, halfbacks, Roche Dawson Oldham, Gray, and Gee, forwards. Everton facing the sun, commenced operations, but the first dangerous movements came from the Liverpool forwards, who were somewhat unfortunate in not scoring from a a smart pressure in front of their opponents goal. The strong breeze favoured Liverpool, and for some time play was contested in the Everton half, where the defence of Molyneux and Crelly was put to the test. A splendid run down by Gee relieved the monotony, and on Liverpool racing away again the ball sent across to Foxall, who cleverly prevented the high wind from carrying it out of play and centring accurately Kyle met the ball, and gave Kitchen no chance of saving. With but a few exceptions play was strictly confined to the Everton quarters, and a couple of clever shots were sent in by Morgan, and Martin that from the latter bounding over the net from the top of the crossbar. A mistake by McLaren looked like resulting in an equalising point, but a fruitless corner kick, was the outcome, though for a few minutes the Liverpool goal looked like being captured. Gee forced a corner off Stevenson but placed it badly, and at the other end Kyle was only a trifle wide with a clever shot. Even play followed, and eventually the Liverpoolians again got away and from a corner kick Morgan put in a second goal with a fast low shot. Half time arrived with the score- Liverpool 2 goals Everton none, With the wind in their favour Everton put on pressure after the interval and a clinking shot, from Oldham caused Storer to handle. The Liverpool right then got down. Martin sent in a brilliant low shot from long range, which narrowly missed the mark. Attacking again a penalty kick was given against Everton, and Foxall failed to find the net. Liverpool just not were having quite as much of the play as their opponents despite the heavy wind against them. From a cross shot by Roche, gee only just missed converting, and following a few minutes pressure the ball was quickly at the Everton end. Twice Kitchen had to gist out from the right wing, and when Gee looked like putting on a point, he was pulled up for offside. Stevenson and McLaren defended well, and repeatedly saved rushes on Storer's charge. Result Liverpool 2 goals Everton nil.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 14 April 1900
LIVERPOOL RESERVE v.  EVERTON RESERVES
This match, which was played at Anfield at the conclusion of the friendly at Goodison Park, attracted an enormous crowd, a great deal more interest being evinced in it than the first team match. At the start there were quite 12,000 spectators, and this attendance was augmented at the game progressed. Teams;- Liverpool.- Storer; Stevenson, and McLaren; Birchall, Hunter, and Martin; Soulsberry, Parkinson, Kyle, Morgan, and Foxall. Everton; Kitchen; Crelley, and Molyneux; Blythe, Green, and Gordon; Roche, Dawson, Oldham, Gray, and Gee. Stevenson won toss, and Oldham started against a brilliant sun. Gee was early prominent with a fast run and centre, but the ball was cleared, and Liverpool replied with a hot attack, during which Kitchen twice saved luckily when a score seemed imminent. Rapid exchanges from end to end characterised the next few minutes’ play, both side throwing any amount of energy into their work. Then the Anfielders settled down, but with a good opening in front of him Kyle shot very wide. Subsequently Gee got away, and finished with a true centre, only to see Gray declared off-side when Storer’s downfall appeared certain. Later on Morgan passed the ball out wide to Foxall, who centred from the line to Kyle, who from close quarters had no difficulty in beating Kitchen. Continuing play ran much in favour of the Reds, though occasionally some feeling crept in, and the game suffered accordingly, no quarter being asked or given. A mis-kick by McLaren let in the Everton right, who forced a corner this leading up to a lot of pressure on the home goal, though Storer was not actually called upon. Gee was hurt in a charge, but resumed. Liverpool made the most of the wind and sun, and kept up a heavy pressure, during which Kitchen saved several good shots. A sortie by the Blues almost ended in Storer being beaten, Stevenson just kicking out of the goal mouth. Immediately after the Liverpool left forced a corner, from which Morgan shot a second goal, this bringing about the interval, with Liverpool leading by 2 goals to nil. When Kyle restarted there were only 15,000 present. Oldham tested Storer in the first minute and then a corner was forced without result. Then Liverpool attacked, and Martin almost scored with a long low ball. Afterwards Foxall was tripped within the twelve yards line, and the inevitable penalty followed. Kitchen saved Morgan’s shot, but owing to the players over-stepping the mark the referee ordered it to be retaken, and on the second occasion Foxall, who essayed to take it, shot clean wide, amidst much derision. Subsequently Storer saved very cleverly from Gee, and then play veered rapidly from end to end, both custodians finding constant employment, Kitchen, however, having the most work. Play was keenly fought to the end, Liverpool winning a fine game by 2 goals to nil.

EVERTON v. LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 14 April 1900
This “friendly” match took place yesterday, at Goodison Park, and probably no better fixture could have been made for the holiday. The gate, however, was not a very extensive one. Liverpool played two new men-Ferrier, centre forward, coming from Montrose; and Bond, from Ripley, Derbyshire, being tried at right back. Liverpool kicked off, the spectators then numbering only a few thousands. The home side got the best of the opening exchanges, and the ball was passed from wing to wing, Proudfoot at the finish making a poor attempt at goal. After a brief visit to the Everton goal, the ball again sailed up the field, and Perkins distinguished himself with two remarkably good saves, Taylor on each occasion being baffled by the Liverpool custodian. Luck continued to favour Liverpool, for a couple of minutes later the leather was back in front of the home goal, and promptly Satterthwaite crossed the ball to the right, where Robertson did the needful. The game was very open and interesting. Everton had another opportunity, which Proudfoot failed to utilise. End to end work was the order, albeit the goalkeepers were little troubled, though Cox had hard lines in not putting on a second point for the “Reds,” the ball just dropping outside at the foot of goal. A little later Perkins again brought off a good save, but Everton kept pressing on the Liverpool goal, Proudfoot again missing an excellent chance by shooting over. Sharp, however, came to the rescue, a long shot just dropping beyond Perkins into the net, and making the score one goal each, after twenty-five minutes’ play. Following this success the Everton front line passed nicely up field, and Toman nearly gave the home side the lead, Perkins only just managing to stop a low, creeping shot. The game progressed without further incident, until some minutes later a splendid effort was made by McDonald to break through Perkins’s defence with a shot no goalkeeper could have saved, but fortunately the ball collided with the post with an impact that caused the ball to rebound half way into the field of play again. This move led up to a smart attack on Liverpool’s goal, several good efforts being made to capture it, but Perkins was too wary to be caught. Everton kept the pressure up for some time, but with no luck, until close on half-time, when Boyle put the leather through, but to make things doubly safe, Proudfoot rushed up, and again banged in making the score at the interval; Everton 2, Liverpool 1. No time was lost in getting to work again, ends being promptly changed. Both goals were speedily tested. The players gave a good exhibition of football, though from a spectator’s point is seemed slow and void of excitement, neither side really extending itself. For a length of time Perkins had been practically an onlooker, the ball and the rest of the players being at the home goal, but Everton’s defence was never seriously disturbed. However, play at length veered round in favour of Everton, the ball being raced down the left wing, when McDonald screwed in finely, and beat Perkins, making the score 3 to 1 in favour of Everton. So far in this half Liverpool had done all the pressing, while Everton had the best of the score. McDonald got away with a clear field before him when he was pulled down, and a free kick given, which was worked clear. Almost immediately the ball was back again, when McDonald put in a beauty which Perkins saved splendidly. Two minutes later both these players similarly distinguished themselves. Robertson next had hard lines, his shot striking the crossbar and falling for Muir to scope away. A scrimmage in front of the Everton goal looked rosy for the visitors, the ball being several times all but inside the net. Muir, however, managed to clear amidst the plaudits of the onlookers. A few minutes later time was called, Everton winning by 3 goals to 1. Teams;- Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards. Liverpool;- Perkins, goal; Dunlop and Bond, backs; W. Goldie, Raisbeck, and Wilson, half-backs; Cox, Satterthwaite, Ferrier, Hunter, and Robertson, forwards.

PROSED AMALGAMATION OF COMBINATIONS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 14 April 1900
A general meeting for the purpose of formulating a scheme for placing the proposed amalgamation of the Football Combination and the Liverpool and District Football Combination on a sound footing will be held at the Bee Hotel, St. John’s-lane, on Monday evening the 23rd inst., commencing at seven o’clock prompt. The following clubs (most of whom have signified their intention of joining) have been asked to attend;- Birkenhead, Buckley Victoria, Chester, Chirk, Crewe Alexandra, Druids, Earlestown, Ellesmere Port, Everton Reserve, Flint, Hudson’s, Liverpool Reserve, New Brighton Tower Reserve, Newton-le-Willows, Oswestry United, Prescot, Rhyl United, Seacombe Swifts, South Liverpool, Southport Central Reserve, Tranmere Rovers, Warrington, White Star Wanderers, and Wrexham.

A DISAPPOINTED BANGOR CROWD
Liverpool Daily Post – Saturday 14 April 1900
MISSING EVERTON TEAM
A large crowd assembled on the Bangor football field yesterday afternoon, at three o’clock, to witness a match between an Everton team and Bangor. The crowd waited till half-past four, when they were informed that the match was abandoned, the Everton team, who, it was understood, were coming by boat, not having arrived owing, presumably, to the steamer, on account of the rough weather, being unable to reach Bangor. A similar incident occurred last Good Friday, when the White Star Wanderers were delayed owing to the fact that the train by which they travelled did not proceed beyond Llandudno Junction. There, however, they hired a waggonette, and drove twenty-six miles to Bangor, arriving just as the crowd was dispersing, and the match was played.

EVERTON’S EASTER ARRNAGEMENTS
Liverpool Daily Post – Saturday 14 April 1900
Today Everton play their return League match with Bury, at Goodison Park; kick-off at 3.30. On Monday Glossop appear in a League engagement, which, it is to be hoped, will provide the home team with a further opportunity of annexing points. Kick-off two o’clock. The above team will also represent Everton in both League matches, with the exception that Taylor will play In place of Gray.
Today’s Fixtures
League Division one; Everton v Bury at Goodison Park
Lancashire Combination
Bury v Everton, at Bury

“HERR EDGAR CHADWICK” IN GERMANY
May 15, 1900. Lancashire Evening Post
The famous Everton-cum-Burnley left winger, who was invited to Prague, in Germany, to coach the local football team at the conclusion of the recent tour of the English team, has just written to his brother in Blackburn an interesting letter, which he jocosely signs “Herr Edger Chadwick.” He says;-
“I left Blackburn by the 12.15 p.m. train Midland, via Manchester, and arrived at Harwich 9.35 p.m., in time for the 10 o'clock boat. I landed at Hook of Holland at 5 a.m., caught the express, and after a railway journey of 26 hours arrived at Prague at 7 a.m. on Saturday morning. I was met at the station by Herr Friedl, manager of the Austrian Bank. I commenced duties by refereeing in a match on Sunday and commenced my coaching duties on Monday. I have charge of 50 players, and have to train them at 7 o'clock in the morning for 1 ½ hours, and then leave off until 7 at night. You see the players are all engaged during the day. It is well that they do not train during the day time, as it is very hot. I shall want a new hat when I come home, because when the players turn up to train they raise their hats to me, and of course I have to do the same, besides shaking hands with all of them. I am a little bit mixed up with the language, but the players readily understand what I require them to do. They are a jolly lot of fellows, and excellent sportsmen. I am the boss of the team, and select the team myself. They will soon pick up the points of football here. Our team have only six matches to play and one especially (Berlin) they wish to win. I shall endeavored to succeed in winning that match for them. They must think a lot about a professional footballer, as I have been invited to all the houses of the gentlemen belonging to the club here to take dinner with them at night. I think we made a magnificent impression when the English team came here last November.”

EVERTON 2 BURY 0
April 16 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The Bury team who have had a very busy though not successful time at late, were the visitors to Goodison Park, on Saturday, and though the weather was all that could be desired for the pursuit of outdoor sport, it was disappointing to find but a gathering of 10,000 spectators to welcome the cup finalist. Everton were without Settle, who is suffering from affection of the throat; and on the Bury side, berry Brimblecombe, Nicol, and Lamberton were drafted into the team. The news of the somewhat sudden decease of Mr.Brooks, one of the oldest directors of the club, cast quite a gloom over the proceedings, the occasion being marked by the flying of the flag at half-mast and wearing of crape armlets by the players. The teams faced as Follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Eccles and Balmer backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald and Taylor (captain), forwards. Bury: - Montgomery, goal, Lamberton, and Davidson, backs, Nicol, Leeming, and Ross halfbacks, Richards, Brimbecombe, McLuckie, Berry, and Plant forwards, Referee John Lewis. Bury commenced operations but Everton having the advantage of the elements was quickly attacking, and Montgomery was twice called upon in quick succession by McDonald. Play was mostly confined to the visitors half, where faulty shooting was not an infrequent feature of the Everton attack; but ultimately a pass from Boyle to Abbott brought about the desired success, as the latter, with a splendid shot from long range, drove into the net quite out of Montgomery's reach. This point came after play had been in progress eleven minutes, and was signalised by a further attack on the Bury goal. The home halves were conspicuous in finding openings for their forwards, who, however, was not smart enough to turn them to good advantage. Following one of several movements to the Bury end, Toman put the ball to Proudfoot, who with a hard drive, added a second gaol. Meanwhile the Bury forwards had been very inactive and were seldom seen over the half way line. A fine sprint and shot from Plant put more life into the play, and for some minutes the game was contested in exciting fashion, Eccles on two occasions keeping out Berry, and Plant when danger threatened Muir's charge. A few minutes later McDonald with a tremendous drive, struck the upright and with but few exceptions the Everton forwards up to the change of ends monopolised the bulk of the play. On resuming, the Everton van were again hovering round Montgomery's charge, which had a lucky escape from McDonald, who headed in from a corner. Lamberton prevented downfall with a smart tackle in front of goal, though for a lengthy period there appeared but little hope for a lengthy period there appeared but little hope of the Buryites preventing further disaster. The movements of their forwards when in possession were not at all promising, and the Everton halves had little difficulty in dispossessing them of the ball and initiating attack upon their charge. Muir was practically a spectator of the proceedings until well on in the second half, when called upon to save capital shot, from Berry. A sprint by Sharp, followed by a capital centre was missed by three of his confreres and following another effort by Berry, Proudfoot was only a trifle wide. No further scoring took place, and Everton won by two goals to nil.

BURY RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 3
April 16 1900. The Liverpool mercury
At Bury, before 300 spectators. Bury faced a strong wind, and brilliant sun, but forced the pace, and Reddish scored after thirteen minutes play. Atherwards play ruled very even, but Bury attacks were most dangerous, Kitchen twice saving miraculously. Interval Bury 1 goal Everton nil. Operations had barely been resumed when Chadwick equalised. Holland again give Bury the lead. Everton equalising from a scrimmage, Gee scored again for Everton who won by 3 goals to 2.

EVERTON REVIEW
April 16 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
After waiting petently for five weeks the supporters of the Everton Club have at last received their reward, in the shape of another league victory. At a critical stage of their career, Everton like their neighbours across the park, have been visited by the prospective cup-holders. There has been a strong flavouring of Bury in local football during the past week, and matters have turned out as neatly as could have been anticipated. The visitors from East Lancashire have not been too pressing in their attentions, they have taken the esate of affairs with philosophical serenity, and have kindly obliged both their conquerors with a couple of goals, and what is of more worth, the same number of points. Their liberality has been generous, but no favouritism has been shown, and for this amongst sundry other reasons, the hope is expressed that they may secure the object of their ambition, and crown their plucky efforts in the preliminary rounds of the cup-ties by carrying off the insignificant bit of silver, the English Cup. The game at Goodison Park deserves but little comment, though the fact that Everton were again victorious does, in truth warrant some attention. Successes have of late been like angel's visits, low and far between, and the addition of two points at one fell swoop should not therefore be lightly passed by. By the aid of two clinking shits from Abbott and proudfoot respectively were the points obtained, and Montgomery had no chance with either. The play was fairly interesting and the bright flashes of Sharp along the touch line varied the otherwise monotonous character of the contest, but it must be disheartening to the speedy right winger to find his centres invariably mulled. There were many examples of this nature in Saturday's match; there have been, as a matter of fact, in almost every game these season similar weaknesses shown, but one instance will serve, as a specimen of what is the usual happening. The second half had considerable progressed, when sharp got the better of Ross, and also after skillful footwork, beat Davidson. Racing in to within half a dozen yards of the upright post, he tripped the ball across the goalmouth to the toss of Proudfoot, who missed, as did McDonald and Taylor in succession, and not one of these players was more than five yards away from Montgomery. A touch was all that was required, but this was not forthcoming. When two goals had been added inside twenty minutes there was a general anticipation that the goal average was about to receive an impetus. This, however appears to be a matter of inability. The Everton forwards have not this season scored more than three goals in any sorted of match. Thrice have they reached this number; on six occasions, two goals has been their limit. One goal has been obtained fourteen times, whilst seven matches have produced not a goal this in league matches alone. The probability is that this will go on until the end of the chapter. McDonald shaped better than in the previous games, he has plenty of go in him, still some skill; but he does not take the ball with precision, and a worrying halfback would at present upset his play altogether. There is however sufficient reason for anticipating improvement, which experience will probably develop. The halves were seen to greater advantage than in recent games, the backs were sound, and Muir equal to all demands upon him. Bury did not over exert themselves in view of their more important struggle on Saturday next, and took no risk whatever. They did not appear over anxious to score, and there were only two shots that gave Muir any trouble, these being cleverly saved. The forwards were lackadaisical. McLuckie being oftener among the halfbacks, than in his proper positions; but the outside wingmen were prominent at times, and berry seems a very useful inside left. The halves and backs succeeded in keeping the score down to its finally lowly dimension and one of the pleasantest features of the match was the absence of fouls or disaffection of any sort. To-day Everton tackle the wooden sponists, and after this game doubtless many will journey to Anfield ground, when Queen's Park, who were beaten in the Scottish Cup final by the Celtic on Saturday will appear.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 16 April 1900
By the Loiterer
There have been numerous football matches this Eastertide, with a bust time again today. Senior football has, however, been slack the only match of note being Bury at Goodison Park. The result was the same as at Anfield the Monday previous, and on both occasions the Bury men have not shown form worthy of cup-holders, a title which, I understand, they are bent on earning next week at the Crystal Palace. Well, I, in common with the majority of enthusiasts in this district, wish them every success, but dealing with the matches played here during the week, they will have to “buck up” considerably ere they bring the English Cup to Lancashire again.
In the interval we had a friendly between Everton and Liverpool on Good Friday, Everton winning by 2 goals to 1 so that Everton have had the best of it in all three encounters this season. The Lancashire Combination fixture between the reserve teams of the two clubs put the other fixture in the shade altogether. There was more enthusiasm shown, and the spectators rolled up to something like 15,000. There were great doings too., the play was of a ding-dong description all through, with Liverpool rather the better lot, and they ultimately won by two goals to none.

EVERTON’S EASTER EGG
Athletic News - Monday 16 April 1900
By the Loiterer
Twice within the week have Bury been in evidence in this neighbourhood, and on each occasion they have suffered defeat by the same score. Both Liverpool and Everton were sadly in need of points, and perhaps it is as well that the East Lancashire team have an eye on the coveted bit of silver, for which they will struggle this week-end, for judging by their display both at Anfield and Goodison Park, they have the possession of this trophy more in their mind’s eye than the endeavour to advance in the League table. It is five weeks since Everton won a League match, so that matters were rapidly becoming desperate, and the visit of Bury was, under the circumstances, a veritable gift-offering. There were several important alterations in the visitors’ ranks from that advertised to do duty, whilst on the Everton side, Settle was, owing to an abseess in his neck, unable to operate against his quondant comrades. The home players wore a band of crape around their arms, in token of respect to Mr. Brookes, one the club’s directors, whose sudden decease on the morning of the match had cast quite a gloom over his former co-workers. The teams under the custodianship of Mr. J. Lewis took the field amidst brilliant sunshine, and arranged themselves in the following order;
Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles, and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards.
Bury.- Montgomery, goal; Lamberton, and Davidson, backs; Nichol, Leeming, and Ross, half-backs; Richards, Brimblecombe, McLuckie, Berry, and Plant, forwards. Bury commenced operations, which were for some time of a slow character, though Toman had a couple of openings, each of which was badly taken at close quarters. After eleven minutes, however, Boyle tipped the ball to Abbott, who steadied himself, and with a terrific drive landed the leather in the corner of the rigging. Seven minutes later some pretty passing between Taylor, McDonald, and Toman furnished Proudfoot with a splendid opening, and with one of his characteristic rushes, the home centre beat Montgomery with a particularly fine ball. This was all the scoring, though with a little luck both sides might easily have augmented these figures. Bury did not appear to be over-exerting themselves. Very rarely in this half did they act with their noted dash, and Muir had hardly ever to be requisitioned. The outside wing men flashed in at intervals, but there was
AN AIR OF COMFORT AND AN ABSENCE OF WORRY
About their moments that would not have been present had their opponents been, say, Southampton. The second half saw a repetition of the play witnessed in the concluding stages of the first portion. Bury, however, came very near scoring, for Eccles stopped a tremendous drive from the left wing unintentionallyapparently, the ball striking him before he could have noted its arrival, and Muir fisted away a shot which came from the rebound of Eccles. At the other end Taylor raced away within three yards of Montgomery, but the custodian cleverly cleared, and just to consistent with their recent displays, of the forwards missed a centre from which travelled across the goal-line about a couple of yards from the posts. No doubt the play would have been more exhilarating had Bury been anxious of their status in the League, and it is not to consider their work in a serious way. They kept the game going, and at times made it appear as if they were intent of scoring. There were practically only one forwards, for McLuckie appeared to be moving commission, and it is rather hard to find a centre-forward skipping by his own half-backs. No matter, the were welcome to Everton, who were enabled to breathe freely. In (Rest unreadable)

EVERTON v  BURY
Liverpool Daily Post – Monday 16 April 1900
Glorious spring weather favoured the return meeting under League auspices at Goodison Park on Saturday, much interest being evinced in the encounter, and a crowd numbering some 12,000 assembled to welcome the English Cup finalists. The Everton players wore black armlets out of respect for Mr. Brooks, one of the directors of the club, who died that morning. There was one alteration in the home team, McDonald appearing vice Settle; whilst no fewer than four changes were made in the Bury ranks. Taylor won the toss, and Bury kicked off towards the Park goal. In the very early stages one or two moves were made towards either goal, the only item worthy of particular mention being a long shot from Leeming, which, however, went nowhere near Muir’s charge. Soon afterwards McDonald came in at the finish of a sharp move forward on the part of Everton, and on his taking the ball to the front, Davidson was penalised, but from the free kick Toman missed a possible chance. Still attacking, Everton moved freely and well, Sharp shooting hard to Montgomery, who punched the ball away very cleverly. A dash forward was then made by Plant and Berry, but ultimately the pair, were beaten by Balmer, who a little later on rendered splendid serviced for his side. A throw-in to Everton gave the home forwards plenty of opportunity of displaying their shootingabilities, but the defence of the Buryites proved splendid. A free kick to Everton gave the home men a further chance. Toman giving Montgomery a rare handful to deal with the Bury custodian saving in brilliant style. Notwithstanding these failures, however, the “Blues” kept up a determined onslaught, and at last success rewarded their efforts, Abbott, with a shot which gave Montgomery no possible chance, scoring the first goal for Everton, after exactly eleven minutes’ play. A fruitless corner having fallen to Everton, the sphere was worked back from the centre, and Boyle proved himself an artist by making the ball take a pretty curve towards Montgomery. The shot missed, but the home side kept pegging away, the Cup aspirants rarely getting over the centre line. A very taking move was taken part in by Taylor, McDonald, and Toman, which had the effect of giving Proudfoot possession when well placed, the ex-Rover scoring a beautiful goal at the end of eighteen minutes’ play. Not satisfied with this feat, Proudfoot essayed once more to lower the Bury colours, but on this occasion he missed the mark. Imbued with these early successes, Everton completely outplayed their opponents, and during the next few minutes hotly assailed Montgomery’s goal, but though good attempts were made by Boyle and Proudfoot no further score came. At length Bury aroused themselves, twice making progress on the left wing. Plant, however, finished badly. Sharp with a fine shot, forced a corner, which proved abortive, but Everton kept up the pressure with dogged persistence, Toman, from a lovely pass by Sharp, missing by a few inches. Keeping up the attack with great spirit. McDonald struck the upright with terrific force, a free kick to Bury following, without, however, causing any uneasiness in the home camp. Subsequently several more vigorous attempts were made by the home side, Taylor shooting on two occasions, and one of the shots being accidentally blocked by McDonald. After this Bury showed up more prominently, but, somehow or other, Balmer on the one side of the playing patch, and Eccles on the other, generally became masters of the situation, although Leeming did succeed in getting in one long shot. A bright run by Sharp gave Toman a chance of trying for goal and on the opposite wing McDonald and Taylor worked desperately hard, the last-named striking the goal-post with a brillaint shot. Abbott followed suit with a positive stinger, and then the Everton forwards came again. A hot bombardment of the Everton goal ensued, the ball for several minutes bobbing about near the visitors’ citadel, but try as they would the home forwards could not penetrate it. At length relief was given by Davidson, Bury moving along the centre, Leeming giving Berry a chance of reducing the margin against his side, of which he failed to take advantage, whilst a moment later Richards shot wide, after Wolstenholme had saved finely. As the interval drew near Bury made strenuous efforts to score. Bury having a glorious opening, however, to see his attempt go wide. When the whistle announced a cessation of hostilities play was at the centre. Half-time score;- Everton 2 goals, Bury nil. Proudfoot resumed the game, Everton at once assuming the aggressive and forcing a corner. This was well placed, Proudfoot heading for goal, Davidson, however, just heading away in time. The “Blues” kept up the pressure for some time. Toman extricating himself from a number of opponents and making a bold bid to capture Montgomery’s charge. Proudfoot was next seen to advantage, but just as he was likely to score he was badly fouled by Leeming, the ensuing free kick proving of no value. Quiet play in midfield followed and though Everton made further play on the left, nothing tangible resulted. Bury made tracks on the right wing, Richards centring, Plant being pulled up for offside. Bury were now playing up worthy of English Cup finalists, but fortunately the Everton defence was very steady, both Balmer and Eccles saving their citadel in great style, the latter’s clearance from McLuckie being particularly fine. Taylor made a sprint on the left, passing to Proudfoot, who was undoubtedly off-side when pulled up by the referee, but the subsequent free kick gave Bury no advantage. Both goals had several narrow escapes afterwards the custodian in each instance saving grandly. Once Sharp crossed the ball beautiful in front of goal. Three of the Everton forwards were lying in wait, but the occasion was too important, and a golden opportunity was allowed to slip. At the other end, Wolstenholme defended grandly, this being followed by a superb clearance on the part of Muir when odds were all against him. The game continued even to the close, the nearest attempt at scoring coming from a brilliant effort on the part of Proudfoot just before the end. Result;- Everton 2 goals, Bury nil. Teams;- Everton;- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards. Bury;- Montgomery, goal; Lamberton, and Davidson, backs; Nicol, Leeming and Ross, half-backs; Richards, Brimbecombe, McLuckie, Berry and Plant, forwards.

EVERTON 4 GLOSSOP 1
April 17 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The return engagement between these clubs was played yesterday afternoon, there being about 6,000 spectators present. The visitors were delayed en route, and it was quite half an hour after the advertised time for kicking off that the teams took the field. Everton were represented as on Saturday. Settle being still on the sick list, and on the Glossop side there were several alterations as will be seen from the following list of players. Everton: - Muir goal, Eccles and Balmer backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor (captain), forwards. Glossop: - Birchenhough, and McEwan backs, Morris, Lupton, and Colville, halfbacks, Goddard, Rothwell, Scarratt, Lumsden, and Evans, forwards.
The visitors opened the play, but the Everton forwards immediately fastened on the ball, and McDonald shot in within the first minutes, Birchenhough saving at the expense of a fruitless corner. Boyle followed with a shot that was a trifle faulty, and after a further attack, the visitors were seen well up in the Everton half. Efforts to score, however, were of a very elementary character, though on one occasion the home goal narrowly missed capture by a piece of very fine play in which the whole of the Glossop forwards took part. Muir saved at full length, and immediately afterwards play was in the vicinity of the visitors goal, when a smart pass from McDonald enabled Proudfoot to score, play having been in progress for ten minutes. With but few exceptions play was confined to the Glossop half, and when relief did come in generally from the right wing pair, of whom Goddard was particularly prominent. Several very fine centres from this player might easily have been turned to good account. Lumsden on one occasion being but slightly wide in heading towards the net. The Everton forwards again were in evidence, and Sharp, after a smart run down skimmed the bar, Taylor a moment later heading over the line, a fine shot from the outside right which otherwise would have found its billet. The Glossop backs stuck gamely to their work, though as a rule they were not over pressed the final efforts of the Everton forwards being of a very tame character. Once, however Birchenhough was lucky in saving after completely missing the ball and effecting a clever followed this saved at the second attempt from Toman. Play was for a considerable period confined to the Glossop half, and it was fortunate for the ‘'wooden spoonists'' that the efforts of the Evertonians were greatly lacking in finish. Eventually Sharp found the net without much difficulty, and closely following Glossop forced their first corner, which however came to nothing. Subsequently McDonald netted the ball, but was adjudged offside, and the ball had no sooner been in play than the same player shot ridiculously high over the bar when close in. Taylor was in the way of a shot that looked like bearing a tangible result, and there could be no doubt that the lack of judgement during the past few minutes despoiled the Evertonians of putting on goals thick and fast. No further scoring was forthcoming up to half time when Everton led by 2 goals to nil. On resuming Glossop put on pressure, but again Balmer and Eccles they could exact no quarter, and most of their efforts to score were the result of long shooting, which invariably went wide of the mark. The Everton forwards seemed to take but little cognisance of the value of goal average, and their efforts at times when scoring was imminent were lamentably weak. Breaking away, no purpose and at the other end both McDonad and Taylor were at fault when there was practically no opposition. The latter how ever, made amends directly afterwards as by closely following up he converted a centre by Toman, thus putting on a third goal. From the centre kick the Glossop forwards became dangerous, and Scarrat and Rothwell, with clever shots, were only a trifle wide of the mark. From a corner kick McDonald put behind after Birchenhough had saved; and following a smart run down by Evans; Lumsden centred to Rothwell who had no difficulty in defeating Muir. A minute later McDonald put through, from a free kick. A brilliant run down by Sharp was the next item, and it was unfortunate that Taylor headed the ball when in an offside position, as it was sailing under the bar quite out of the reach of the custodian. Everton were now having much the better of the game, and on two occasions the Glossop goal had narrow escapes. Towards the finsh Glossop made a big effort to reduce the lead of their opponents. Goddard especially putting in fine work, which however was not supported. No further scoring took place, the result being: - Everton 4 goals, Glossop 1.

WREXHAM 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
April 17 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met on Wrexham Racecourse yesterday, in friendly rivalry. A strong wind considerable interfered with accurate football. In the first half Wrexham held the upper hand, and scored once while in the remaining portion the game was more even but no scoring took place and Wrexham won by one goal to nil.

EVERTON V GLOSSOP
April 17, 1900. The Glasgow Herald.
In fine though rather boisterous weather this return league match was played at Goodison Park before 7,000 people. Glossop had a rearranged team, and arrived late. Everton passed, and scored through Proudfoot in 12 minutes. Goddard put in some fine centres, which were not utilised, and the game was in Everton favour, Sharp scoring a second goal. Interval Everton 2 goals, Glossop nil. Glossop showed up better in the second half, and after Lupton from long range had shot wide, Muir was twice severely tested. Everton pressed, but their shooting was poor, several chances being thrown away. Taylor, however obtained a third goal, and then Rothwell scored for Glossop from Lumsden's centre, and McDonlad added a fourth for Everton, who outplayed their opponents and won by four goals to one.

EVERTON v GLOSSOP
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 17 April 1900
The Holiday attraction at Goodison Park yesterday was the appearance of Glossop, who came to fulfil their League engagement with Everton. Although now in the unenviable position of “wooden spoonists,” the Glossop eleven gave Everton a good game when they met at the Derbyshire town in October last, the match ending in a draw. The weather yesterday was delightfully fine, though a high wind prevailed. The kick-off was fixed for two o’clock, but at that hour the visiting team had not arrived, and the crowd as constrained to possess its soul in patience. It was not until half-past two that the Glossop men entered the arena, the explanation being that they had missed the train at Manchester. The spectators took the delay in good part and those present, numbering about 7,000, gave the belated players a cordial cheer as they trotted on to the field. Everton played the same team as did so well on Saturday, but the Glossop contingent was altogether mixed up. It was just turned 2.30 when the teams faced each other. Everton lost the toss, and Proudfoot started against the wind. The home quintet at once raced down, and McDonald sent in a fine shot that passed a yard outside. A minute later they returned to the attack, and Toman sent in a flying shot, which also went outside. Then the visitors got a look in on the left, and for a time Eccles was bothered, but the danger was cleared. Glossop, however, kept up a determined attack, and Rothwell shot in, Muir falling in the act of clearance. Evens rushed up, and sent in strongly; but Eccles intercepted the ball, and the danger was cleared. The home forwards then got nicely down, and McDonald passing to Proudfoot, the latter ran right up to the goalmouth and coolly placed the leather in the net. This success came after the game had been in progress just over ten minutes, and it gave the Evertonians an obvious stimulus. The visitors, however, showed spirited football and a break away on the right ended in Goddard shooting splendidly, but without effect. For some time subsequently the game ruled in favour of Everton. Abbott on one occasion shooting from a long range just wide of the mark. After a spell of midfield work, the Glossop right again advanced, Rothwell centring magnificently, and Lumsden, rushing up, headed just over the crossbar. The game was now very fast, and a dash down the Everton right terminated in Sharp missing the goal by a matter of inches. A spell of give-and-take play was succeeded by Everton again attacking strongly, a corner being forced off McEwan, but without result. Still the Evertonians swarmed in front of Birchenough, and Boyle sent in a clinking shot, which the Glossop custodian dealt with very cleverly. More give and take play followed, but the home eleven gradually made ground, and again the Glossop goal was subjected to bombardment, several fine chances of scoring being missed. Toman on one occasion sent in a  beauty, which was very smartly got away by the aid of Orr, who came to the custodian’s assistance just in the nick of time. At this stage the Evertonians were having matters practically all their won way, but as usual their shooting when in front of goal lacked both fore and accuracy. A dash down the Glossop right removed the venue, but only for a short time, Taylor and McDonald breaking away prettily on the left, McDonald dribbled right up to the goalmouth and passed to Proudfoot, who missed the ball. Sharp, however, was on the qui vive, and dashing up he placed the leather into the net right out of the goalkeeper’s reach. Following upon this, Goddard and Lumsden ran down, but Eccles saved the situation at the expense of a fruitless corner, and once more the home quintet were swarming round the Glossop goal. Again more chances abegging, Proudfoot, when close in, shooting high over the bar. Then from a pass by Toman, McDonald ran up and beat Birchenough, but the point was promptly disallowed on the ground of off-side. The home contingent were now doing practically what they liked with they failed to add to the score. Proudfoot and Toman again missing fine opportunities, while Taylor scored a palpably offside goal. The home eleven continued to press, and they were still in front when the interval came. Half-time score;- Everton 2 goals, Glossop nil.
There were fully 8,000 spectators present at the restart, and it was noticeable that the wind had almost altogether abated. Glossop had the better of the first exchanges, but their forwards, like those of Everton, were very weak in front of goal. Still they persevered and both Balmer and Eccles were given a lot to do, Lumsden at length sending in a magnificent shot, which struck the outside of the post. Keeping up the pressure the visitors caused the home defence considerable anxiety, both Rothwell and Goddard trying their luck without success.” The danger from a corner was saved by Abbott, and after this Everton had a long spell of pressure, but their shooting was almost laughable in its puerility, Taylor on one occasion, when close, shooting skyward amid the ironical cheering of the crowd. Fortune, however, favoured the home team. Sharp dashing down and shooting across. The goalkeeper ran out and kicked the ball outside. Before he had time to recover his position, the leather had been thrown in and sent across to Toman, who passed to Taylor and the Everton captain had no difficulty in adding a third goal. Following upon this, the Glossop men bestirred themselves, and at length they were amply rewarded, Rothwell scoring a fine goal. After this, Proudfoot was fouled close on the penalty line, and from the subsequent scrimmage McDonald scored a fourth goal. Then Everton had matters all their own way, keeping their opponents practically penned up in their own half, though they did not succeed in adding anything further to their score, and a one-sided game ended in a victory for Everton by 4 goals to 1. Teams;- Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards. Glossop.- Birchenough, goal; Orr and McEwan, backs; Morris, Lupton, and Colville, half-backs; Goddard, Rothwell, Scarlett, Lumsden, and Evans, forwards.

EVERTON  v  WREXHAM
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 17 April 1900
These teams played a friendly match on Wrexham Racecourse. The weather was fine, and there was a gratifying attendance. Wrexham were poorly represented, being without Blew, Owns, and Grainger. A strong wind blew across the ground. The home team commenced operations, and nothing of interest happened during the first five minutes’ play, after which the Wrexham forwards effected a neat movement, Rogers finally shooting over. Griffiths made a good try, and W. Jones followed it up. Byrne gave a fruitless corner. Gordon missed an excellent chance, but Byrne threw away. For a moment, however, a goal looked imminent, and two corners succeeded, neither of which yielded anything tangible. Murphy was conspicuous with a good dribbling clearance, but Everton was still unable to shoot to advantage, the venue for the most part being in their territory. Harrison centred beautifully, and Jones receiving the shot in the net. Wrexham’s first point was thus scored after half an hour’s play. Everton continued to act on the defensive, their opponents pressing persistently. A corner to the home team produced some interesting play, but nothing accrued. Towards the interval Everton became hostile, and a free kick to them took the leather close to the home citadel. Half-time;- Wrexham 1 goal, Everton nil. Final;- Wrexham 1 goal, Everton nil.

THE LATE MR. J.C. BROOKS
April 18, 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The remains of Mr. J.C. Brooks, of H.M. Customs, who died at his residence, Wye-Street, Everton, were interred at Anfield Park Cemetery. Mr. Brooks took an interest in the Everton Football Club, of which he was a director. He was also a prominent Freemason. The chief mourners were Mr. Charles Brooks and Mr. Harry Brooks (brothers), Mr. W. Hoare (nephew), Mrs Jas, Dunning, Mr. Wm Dunning and Mr. Thos Jarrett (brother-in-law), Mr. Thomas Green (stepson), Mr. E.F. Stepheson (son-in-law), Master C.B. Stepheson (stepson), Messrs J. Hardman, A. Hodge, J. Woodward, J. Stoddart, W.C. Elliott, Mrs. Kidd, Mrs H. Brooks, Mrs. W. Hoarse, Mrs Jarrett, Mrs Stepheson, and Mrs A.R. Neill. Amongst those who assembled at the graveside were Dr. Baxter, Mr. T. Keates and Mr. E.A. Bainbridge, Everton Football Club. More names list in main paper.

TURNER TO EVERTON
Dundee Evening Telegraph – Thursday 19 April 1900
Turner, the Stoke forward who came to Southampton two years ago, has been transferred to Everton. The fee is said to be large, and Turner who is one of the ablest outside forwards in the country, will receive a liberal salary.

EVERTON LEAGUE v  NOTTS COUNTY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 20 April 1900
This League match will be played at Nottingham, kick-off at 3.15. The following have been selected to represented Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards. Train leaves Central Station at 8.40.
EVERTON COMBIANTION v.  NEW BRIGHTON TOWER
LIVERPOOL CUP-FINAL TIE
At Goodison park kick off 3.30, Everton team;- Kitchen, goal; Crelley, and Molyneux, backs; Gordon, Green, and Blythe, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Gray, Chadwick, and Gee, forwards.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post – Saturday 21 April 1900
The Everton executive have, it is reported gained a valuable recruit for their League team in the person of J. Turner, the well-known outside left forward of the Stoke Club. Turner has been two years at Stoke, having come there from Southampton, and he is only now transferred owing to the financial necessities of the Stoke Club. The transfer fee is said to be a large one.
EVERTON LEAGUE v  NOTTS COUNTY
This League match will be played at Nottingham, kick-off at 3.15. The following have been selected to represented Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards. Train leaves Central Station at 8.40.
EVERTON COMBIANTION v.  NEW BRIGHTON TOWER
LIVERPOOL CUP-FINAL TIE
At Goodison park kick off 3.30, Everton team;- Kitchen, goal; Crelley, and Molyneux, backs; Gordon, Green, and Blythe, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Gray, Chadwick, and Gee, forwards.

MURMURS FROM THE MERSEY
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 21 April 1900
By Tom Tiddler
One of Everton’s directors Mr. J.C. Brooks, was buried during the week. I don’t know what qualification Mr. Brooks had to be a director- I mean, apart from his financial holding. He was in her Majesty’s Customs, which does not seem the best school of training for a judge of football, not even a harmless critic, much less a director, whose decisions make and unmake a football team. Perhaps he had a natural faculty, as I am sure another ex-director has, a coal merchant happily still alive, although he has resigned from the board. Mr. Brooks struck to the board to the last. It is very touching to see how the Everton directors stand by each other. I had thought they were removable by the annual meeting, but I understand I am mistaken in that; and, really, I am glad, for how on earth would the club get on without them? One defunct, one seceded- surely these are sufficient changes on the board during a single season to satisfy the most ardent stickler for new faces? Of course, a successor to Mr. Brooks will be necessary; and, as the survivors have power to “co-opt,” we may rest satisfied that the new man will fill his shoes, and that the policy of the directorate, so eminently successful in the past, will be continued in the future, with every prospect of no less success. The club’s followers will be pleased, I know. An expert at Goodison Park, I take it, would be in a minority of one; he could, therefore, do no good, and he would be certain to do a lot of harm by causing friction among his colleagues.
There are a good many rumours afloat as to the likelihood of McColl, the Scottish international centre-forward, joining Liverpool or Everton. Both clubs, it is stated, have offered him princely wages, and a bonus which certainly transgresses the rules, so they are not to be expected to admit the fact when questioned.

WREXHAM v  EVERTON
Wrexham Advertiser - Saturday 21 April 1900
This friendly fixture on the Wrexham Racecourse, on Monday was very well patronised and amongst those present was an unusually large number of ladies. A strong wind prevailed, and it blew in gusts towards the town, rendering anything like scientific play entirely out of the question. The Wrexham side was unusually weak, whilst Everton on the other hand, were very well represented. The teams lined out in the following order;-
Wrexham; Evans, goal; Povah and Pountney, backs; Rogers, Robinson, and R. Jones, half-backs; W. Jones, Griffiths, Jones, Gordon, and Harrison, forwards.
Everton;- Bryne, goal; Gordon and Molyneux, backs; Murphey, Green and Elliott, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Gray, Chadwick, and Gee, forwards. Mr. Evans, of Wrexham, was the referee.
Jones started the ball for Wrexham and after a few minutes of midfield play the home left wing broke away, but were repulsed before becoming dangerous. Then the sphere was sent into the Wrexham half, and Roach tried for the goal, but the wind carried the ball outside. The leather travelled quickly from end to end, and after several exchanges, W. Jones put in a pretty centre, but the Everton backs were equal to the occasion. Wrexham still maintained the aggressive and a hot fusillade took place on the visitors; stronghold. Rogers put in an accurate shot, but the wind carried it so that it rose up in the air, and then dropped within a few inches of the goal. This was certainly hard lines for Rogers. Wrexham were only repulsed for a short time. They renewed the attack, and W. Jones, Griffiths ad Jones rushed down in fine style. The ball was banged into the net just after the whistle had gone for off-side. This brought relief to Everton who next invaded the Wrexham half. Shooting was most difficult, and the combination was not good, so that a short time afterwards Gordon and Jones broke loose and ran down the field nicely. The wind carried the ball away from their toes, and Molyneux thus gaining possession, had no difficulty in returning the pigskin up the field. Some good work was next displayed by Harrison, who called upon the Everton custodian to save. W. Jones, however, got possession, and was in a splendid position for scoring when he shot badly. From the goal-kick the visitors at once made tracks for the Wrexham fortress. They were checked in mid-field, but eventually they got forward, and called upon Evans to save. Griffiths was applauded for a good run down the left, and Byrne had to stop a good shot. The ball was returned a few seconds later, and the shot from the centre forwards had to be saved at the cost of a corner. This was futile, and mid-field play followed. Wrexham found it easy to maintain an aggressive attitude in consequence of the strong wind which prevailed, although correct shooting was practically impossible. After the game had been in progress about half an hour, Harrison sent in a beautiful centre, and Jones, the centre forward, rushed up and landed the leather into the net in fine style, scoring with a shot which gave Byrne no chance. Wrexham continued to hover, around the Everton goal, and some clever passing was displayed on the right. The outside man was robbed, and the pigskin quickly travelled to the other end. Roche and Dawson were upset by Pountney when they were threatening, and the ball went out of play. The wind seemed to gather force as the afternoon wore on, and Jones securing the sphere had a shot at the goal. A corner resulted, but the kick, when taken, fell short of the goal, and Gordon passed the ball up the field. Towards half-time Jones again secured the sphere, and caused Byrne to make one of the best saves of the afternoon. When the whistle sounded for half-time the score was- Wrexham 1 Everton 0.
Play on resumption was rather dull, as the game, in consequence of the high wind, resolved itself into more or less of a scramble. Although changing ends, and thus having to face the breeze, Wrexham seemed to have the best of the game. For fifteen minutes play was of an even character, but at the end of that time Evans stopped a good shot. Gray was afterwards conspicuous for the visitors, and he passed to Dawson. The latter shot a little outside. Wrexham were forced to concede a corner, but this turned out futile. Towards the finish Everton made strenuous attempts to equalise, and the centre forward and left wing taxed the home defence rather severely. Time, however, arrived with the score the same as at half-time, namely;- Wrexham 1 Everton 0.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 23 April 1900
By The Loiterer
Just now the various secretaries are busy arranging the teams for next season, but are very chary in giving information, Everton I understand, have signed on some eighteen of their present lot, and then there is the news that Turner, of Stoke, intends settling among us. He has the reputations of being a good player, but for my own part I should prefer a bigger man. There may be some startling developments in the signing on line before long, and it will need something very much out of the common to arouse the interest of the Liverpool public. They appear to have dropped in the more practical way of judging a player or a team by results.

NOTTS SCRAMBLE INTO A SAFE POSITION
Athletic News - Monday 23 April 1900
By The Trentsider
Wanting only one point to make themselves perfectly safe from expulsion from the FirstDivision, no matter how the other clubs concerned might fare, Notts were expected to make a great effort when they met Everton at Nottingham on Saturday. They, however, played disappointingly and were somewhat lucky to draw. That interest in the game iswaning was proved by the fact that although the afternoon was fine and warm their were not more than 5,000 spectator. Both teams were fairly representative, the visitor having Balmer away. Those engaged were: - Notts.—Suter, goal; Lewis, and Montgomery, backs; Ball, Bull, and McDonald, half-backs; Fletcher, MaConnachie, McBain, Warner, and Chalmers, forwards. Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles, and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. Kirkham, Preston. Fairly even play characterised the first half, but Notts getting MaConnachie disabled soon after the interval, fell away, and Everton, brought great pressure to bear. Taking them all round, therefore, they were decidedly the better team. There was more method about the work of their forwards than that of the Notts men, and they were also more reliable during the later stages of the game, it being merely a question of whether the Notts defence would hold out or not, and it was fortunate in being able to do so. At the outset Notts displayed great dash. A short attack was made by Everton, but Notts were soon at the other end, and Chalmers centring from a free kick.
MACCONNACHIE HEADED THROUGH
three minutes after commencing. Matters continued to go well for the home side. McBain putting on a second goal two minutes later with a long low shot. A sharp' shot by MaConnachie found Eccles in the way and Everton raised the siege, forcing their way slowly but surely to the other end. Suter dealt with a shot by Wolstenholme, but the visitors were not to be denied, and rushing in again McDonald scored for them in sixteen minutes. A weak effort by Notts was easily repulsed and upon Taylor getting clear away in the centre Suter ran out and dispossessed him. Still Everton, remained in front where they were exceedingly dangerous, and Bull in trying to clear, had the bad luck to put through his own goal. This was after twenty minutes’ play and the teams were again on level terms. Both goalkeepers were called upon and Notts raised hopes of ultimate success by putting on rather strong pressure. They could not get through again, however, and then were forced back. The first corner fell to the visitors, and Toman made a shot which Suter just saved; them Fletcher had a fair chance, but sent out and Muir stopped a capital screw shot by Warner. No sooner had the second half begun than MaConnachie was hurt. He had to retire, but returned after an absence of about ten minutes, though he was not of much use. The loss as a serious one to his side, the forwards becoming completely disorganised. They made some attacks, but as a rule they could be dealt with but little difficulty. Chalmers had one opening, but shot wide, and no use was made of a free kick and a corner kick. Then Taylor ran forward and put through and Everton had hard lines in having the point disallowed for offside. Muir was once in difficulty, but managed to clear, and three free kicks helped Notts in attacking. It was all to no purpose, and towards the close Everton went ahead. They too found it impossible to again get through the defence, though, they were desperately near doing so, the
NOTTS BACKS KICKING OUT TO WASTE TIME
At the close. The game consequently ended in a draw of two goals each. Everton played in determined style and Notts were well pleased to get off as they did. Suter was all right in goal, and could not be blamed for failing to stop the shots which scored, but both Lewis and Montgomery were shaky. They often miskicked and their play all round was open to much improvement. Bull made a sad mistake, but independent of this he played a fine game. He was always in the thick of the game, and he generally came off with flying colours. McDonald played with judgement and Ball did exceptionally well against such a pair as Taylor and McDonald. McMain was the best of the forwards, though MaConnachie played a clever game up to the time he was injured. Warner was also smart, and he ought to make a good forward next season. Fletcher and Chalmers occasionally did some excellent work, but as a rule both were disappointing. Muir was not altogether safe in the Everton goal, but the back play of Eccles and Watson was excellent. The half-backs line was also a strong one. Boyle was very successful and Wolstenholme and Abbott quite spoiled the wing play of the Notts forwards. Proudfoot was prominent, though he got very few chances. Taylor did some fine leading work, and he had an able partner in McDonald. Toman was skilful and passed splendidly, whilst Sharp also did well.

EVERTON v.  NOTTS COUNTY
Liverpool Mercury – Monday 23 April 1900
The last of Everton’s away from home engagements this season was brought off at Nottingham in weather more suggestive of cricket than football. Owing to the County ground being required for cricket, the game was played at the Forest’s headquarters, and at 3.15, when the teams put in an appearance, there would be about 6,000 spectators. Present. The sides were as follows; Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards. Notts County;- Suter, goal; Lewis, and Montgomery, backs; Ball, Bull, and McDonald, half-backs; Fletcher, MaConnachie, McMain, Warner, and Chalmers, forwards. It will be seen that Balmer was not in the team, he being on the sick list, and that Watson was given another trial. Losing the toss, Everton had to face a glaring sun, but still they opened well, and it was not until Boyle had unfairly pulled up McMain that real danger threatened the Everton goal. The infringement cost the visitors’ dearly, for Chalmers put in a capital centre, and MaConnachie headed into the net quite out of Muir’s reach. This success came three minutes after the start, and on the ball being brought into play the Everton half was again the scene of operations. Another centre from Chalmers was met by McMain, who sent in a lovely shot at high speed, and thus at the expiration of five minutes the County had a lead of two clear goals. After this second reverse the Everton forwards pulled themselves together, but could not get within shooting range, and a further raid by the home van ended in Watson luckily charging down a swift shot from MaConnachie. A capital long shot from Wolstenholme was the next item, and following the clearance the Everton forwards were seen to much better advantage. One of several movements to the County goal ended in McDonald reducing the lead after a quarter of an hour’s play, and five minutes later a swift cross shot from Taylor glanced off Bull into the net, the sides being again upon even terms. Notts put on pressure to regain the lead, and Muir among others brought off one clever save from McMain. At the other end Everton forced a corner from which Toman nearly scored, and from a similar concession Wolstenholme shot high over the bar. Everton were now having more of the play, and looked like increasing their lead, but at the interval the scores were unchanged. The second portion opened with an attack upon the home goal, Sharp and Toman being now conspicuous, but both Lewis and Montgomery were safe, and Suter was not placed in difficulties. Play gradually found its way to midfield, and it was some time ere there was much interest evinced in the proceedings. MaConnachie retired for some minutes owing to a slight injury, and during his absence Chalmers failed to utilise an opening that came his way. Play generally was of a desultory character, neither side appearing to unduly exert themselves, the players being evidently labouring under the excessive heat, and when the end came the result was- Everton 2 Notts County 2.

EVERTON v  NOTTS COUNTY
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 23 April 1900
The Everton team left the Central Station on Saturday to fulfil their last away match of the season at Nottingham. Glorious weather prevailed, and the sun was so powerful and the surrounding so summerlike that it was very difficult to imagine that football was still the prevailing pastime. The Trent Bridge Ground having been given up to cricket, the game came off on the neighbouring city ground of the Forest. With the exception of the substitution of Watson (late Dundee) for Balmer, who is suffering from illness, the Everton eleven was identical with that which performed in recent games, whilst the County were fully represented. Notts won the toss, Proudfoot starting the game against a powerful sun, in the presence of 5,000 spectators. By degrees the visitors worked down, McDonald showing up finely in some beautiful forwards work, but Proudfoot missed a fine opening in the first minute. A free kick against Boyle placed the “Blues” goal in jeopardy, the ball being sent to Chalmers, who centred grandly to MaConnachie, the latter heading past Muir within a couple of minutes from the start. This very early success naturally placed the home men on good terms with themselves, and for some minutes they fairly outplayed their opponents. Ultimately Chalmers once more made play up the left wing, and he, passing deftly across the goal, McMain dashed up and scored the second point, giving Muir not the slightest chance, this goal coming within five minutes. There was no question as to the superiority of the home team at this stage. The Notts forwards were playing well, their passing being of a very high order, and it required great vigilance on the part of the Everton halves to hold them in check. Exchanges between the half backs followed, after which Wolstenholme shot into Suter’s hands. The return by the home custodian gave no relief as the visitors were quickly back again. Toman sending across the goal Taylor rushed up and scored Everton’s first goal. Having once tasted blood, the Evertonians naturally thirsted for more, and for several minutes play was hotly contested in close proximity of Suter’s charge. After Lewis and Montgomery had each cleared their charges, Sharp and Toman got going on the right wing, the latter transferring to the other wing, where Taylor secured possession, swinging the ball across the mouth of his opponents’ goal. There McDonald was lying in wait, and he registered Everton’s second goal, after the game had been in progress about twenty minutes. Everton once more attacked with great determination, Taylor forcing a corner, from which Proudfoot almost scored. For a little while after this Notts had the best of the argument, McMain making a brilliant effort to get the better of Muir, but without effect. Gradually Everton worked themselves into an aggressive position, and made frequent attacks on the home goal without result. At length the County went away along the centre, Abbott pulling them up. At the interval play was near the dividing line, each side having scored two goals. In the second half Everton quickly reasserted themselves, several times being near scoring, and during one period the Notts defence was so severely taxed that three corners fell to the visitors, though without being turned to profitable account. The extreme heat naturally had its effect upon the players, and as a consequence the pace of the first moiety considerably deteriorated, neither side displaying quite their usual form. However, Everton generally had the best of matters, Taylor succeeding in getting the ball past Suter, but offside was successfully claimed by Notts. No further score was added, the result being a draw -two goals each.Teams;- Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Taylor, forwards. Notts County;- Suter, goal; Lewis, and Montgomery, backs; Ball, Bull, and McDonald, half-backs; Fletcher, MaConnachie, McMain, Warner, and Chalmers, forwards.

LIVERPOOL SENIOR CUP FINAL
Liverpool Daily Post- Monday April 23, 1900
EVERTON v.  NEW BRIGHTON
This tie created a considerable amount of interest in football circles and in consequence attracted a capital crowd to the Goodison Park enclosure on Saturday. The weather was gloriously fine, and the ground in splendid condition. New Brighton attacked, and Kitchen saved splendidly from a good shot by McGuffie. The game was grandly contested, both teams being well matched, and the ball travelled from end to end in quick succession. A grand run was made by the Evertonians, and Roche shot into the net. This goal was, for some reason or other, disallowed by the referee. The visitors then got away from a free kick, and threatened danger, but the home backs rarely allowed them to have a shot at goal. Dawson was hurt, and had to retire for a time, but he soon returned. At this point New Brighton were very persistent in their attacks on the home goal, but though several shots were sent in, they failed to find the net. The visitors still pressed, Roberts putting through, but the whistle had previously gone for offside. New Brighton were still pressing when the whistle went for half-time, which arrived with a blank sheet. Nothing was scored in the second half, the match ending in a pointless draw. The replayed tie will probably take place at the Tower grounds on Thursday evening next.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 NEW BRIGHTON TOWER 0
April 23 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Liverpool Senior Cup Final
Owing to the League fixture, both teams played reserves in the match at Goodison Park. The play at the outset favoured Everton, and on one occasion Chadwick almost scored. New Brighton Tower than did the bulk of the attacking, after which the play fluctuated. On changing ends Everton had the best of matters, but Gray failed to make use of a good opportunity. New Brighton were in a favorable position, but Molyneux cleared. Neither side, however scored nor a rather tame game resulted in a pointless draw, Everton 0, New Brighton Towers 0. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Crelly, and Molyneux, backs, Gordon Green, and Blythe, halfbacks Roche Dawson, Gray, Chadwick (a), and Gee forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
April 23 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton club is completing its season's course in a more satisfactory fashion then was a little tome back anticipated, and a drawn game at Nottingham under the exceptional conditions that prevailed was quite as much as one could hope for. The County club required a point to place them safely over the hurdle, and judging from the manner in which they opened the proceedings it looked long odds on them annexing the full quota. The play in the early portion of the contest was of a most sensational character, for after a couple of minutes had elapsed, Macconnachie headed a capital goal, which was followed directly afterwards by a magnificent shot from McMain, and resulted in the visitors being two in arrears in the first six minutes. Everton's prospects were thus early discounted but so gradually and surely did the game had been in progress 20 minutes, the teams were once again contesting on even terms. During this period most of the play was continued to the inside men, and it was only on very odd occasions, that the ball found its way to a wing player. Notwithstanding the depressing effect of the heat, the teams stuck gallantly to their work, and although there were evidence of fatigue noticeable in the second portion, the interest in the game never lagged. In the closing stages the Everton forwards were much fresher, and but for the plucky efforts of the home backs, further scoring could not have been prevented. There was an improvement in the play of the Everton forwards from that seen in recent games, but still the work was not as well distributed as one would like. The wingmen were generally neglected, and there was an absence of those speedy rushes and centres by the outside right that have been noticeable features in recent games. The left wing was the more effective, and the improvement shown by McDonald points to his turning out a very useful servant to the club. The halves were good, and at full back Eccles put in very useful work, which had more than a little to do with the partial success of his sides. Watson showed improved form, his tackling being more precise than on the last occasion that he was included in the team, and was generally clean and effective. Two goals registered against a custodian in the early minutes of a game might lead one to jump to the conclusion that there was weakness displayed, but such was not the case with regard to Muir, and one might go so far as to etate that no custodian in the kingdom could have saved the goals scored by Macconnachie and McMain. They were brilliant efforts especially that by the latter and against them the Everton goals, though a bit above the average was very ordinary. As on the Everton side, most of the Notts attack came from the three inside men; indeed it was not until late on in the game that Fletcher, the outside right had an opportunity of putting his foot to the ball. Chalmers and Warner made a capital left wing, and it was mainly due to the fine work of the former that the County so early estamhising their lead. McMain put in much useful work though it was only occasionally that he escaped the vigilance of Boyle, whose attentions to him were marked throughout. The halfbacks were a serviceable trio and no exception could be taken to the work of the backs. Lewis and Montgomery-who especially in the later stages were kept well employed. Suter kept his charge, well and like his vis-à-vis, he had no chance of saving the two shots that took effect. Taking the prevailing spiritedly contested. There were plenty of exciting incidents, and that the game ended with a division of honours was perhaps the most befitting outcome of the engagement.

LIVERPOOL CHALLENGE CUP- FINAL TIE
Liverpool Mercury - Wednesday 25 April 1900
EVERTON v.  NEW BRIGHTON TOWER
It has been decided to replay this tie on Friday next 27th inst, at six p.m. on the Tower Ground, New Brighton.

BIRKENHEAD v EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post- Thursday, April 26, 1900
This match will be played at Bedford Park, Rock Ferry, tonight. Kick-off 6.15, the teams being as follows;- Everton; Kitchen; Crelley, Molyneux; Gordon, Green, Blythe; Roche, Dawson, Gray, Chadwick, and Gee. Birkenhead; Viner; Lunt, Ellis; Hilton, Douglas, Lloyd, Carlin, Davies, Newton, Powell, and Headen.
EVERTON v.  MANCHESTER CITY
The football curtain will be rung down at Goodison Park on Saturday next with a League match against Manchester City. The result of the first encounter at Manchester on December 23rd was a win for Everton by 2 goals to 1 after a very keen struggle; but the City team are at present in excellent form, and, no doubt, will make a strong effort to turn the tables on Everton. The home team will be at full strength except Settle, who has not fully recovered from his illness; but the public will have an opportunity of seeing Turner the international who has been transferred from Stoke to Everton, play outside left, as a preliminary for next season. The kick-off is fixed for 3.30. there will be a match played previously between selected teams representing the Aigburth and District Combination and the Zingari League, Second Division.

NEW BRIGHTON TOWER v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post – Saturday 28 April 1900
LIVERPOOL CUP FINAL
From the vey outset it was quite evident that the teams were well matched, and there were 1,500 spectators when Settle led off. The exchanges were interesting without being brilliant, both sets of forwards in turn taking the leather into opposing territory. Finally Kitchen had to dispose of a header from Hammond. The most interesting feature of the game was when Settle came away with the ball, fairly beating McCartney and Ellison. Gee received the pass and shot across Bradshaw’s charge, but the Tower backs failed to clear and Everton’s forwards closed in, and during a bully Bradshaw rushed out to clear, when Dawson headed past him smartly, and opened the score for Everton. Restarting, the play was of a very even character. The Tower defence was the more severely taxed. Kitchen saved cleverly from a fine header by Hammond, and Bradshaw saved at the expense of a corner, when Roach and Dawson seemed certain to score. The greater portion of the attack now came from the visitors, and as the Tower’s half line and left back were weak, Bradshaw had to keep well on the alert, but he was equal to emergencies, and gave no chance away. Hammond missed a fine chance of equalising, as he received a capital centre from Roberts, after some really clever passing, but he somehow managed to put the ball outside the posts. Dawson fairly beat Stephenson, and had an open goal, but Bradshaw rushed out and saved the situation at the expense of a corner by directing the ball just over the crossbar. A couple, of corners fell to Everton, but they availed them nothing. Gee now beat McCartney easily, the latter playing a very weak game. French attacked, but did not stick to his man, and the ball being promptly passed to the inside left Bradshaw suffered defeat for the second time, the game ending in a victory for Everton by 2 goals to nil. Teams;-
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Watson, and Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Taylor, and Gordon, halves; Roche, Dawson, Settle, Gray and Gee, forwards.
Tower.- Bradshaw, goal; French and Stephenson, backs; McCartney, Ellison and Hughes, half-backs; Ford, Green, Hammond, Roberts, and Hoare, forwards.

NOTTS COUNTY 2 EVERTON 2
April 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The last of Everton's away from home engagements this season was brought off at Nottingham, in weather more suggestive of cricket than football. Owing to the County ground being required for Cricket the game was played at the Forest's headquarters, and at 3-15, when the teams put in an appearance there would be about 6,000 spectators present. The sides were as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Eccles and Watson, backs Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Abbott halfbacks Sharp, Toman Proudffot, McDonald and Taylor (captain), forwards. Notts County: - Suter, goal, Lewis, and Montgomery, backs Ball, Bull, and McDonald halfbacks, Flectcher, Maconnachie, McMain, Warmer and Chalmers forwards . It will be seen that Balmer was not in the team. He being on the sick list, and that Watson was given another trial. Losing the toss, Everton had to face a glaring sun, but still they opened well, and it was not until Boyle had unfairly pulled up MaMain that real danger threatened the Everton goal. The infringement cost the visitors dearly, for Chalmer put in a capital centre, and Macconnachie headed into the net quite out of Muir's reach. This success came three minutes after the start, and on the ball being brought into play the Everton half was again the scene of operations. Another centre from Chalmers was met by McMain who sent in a lovely shot at high speed, and thus at the expiration of five minutes the County had a lead of two clear goals. After this second reverse the Everton forwards pulled themselves together, but could not get within shooting range, and a further raid by the home van ended in Watson luckily charging down a swift shot from Macconnachie. A capital long shot from Wolstenholmes was the nest item, and following the clearance the Everton forwards were seen too much better advantage. One of several movements to the County goal ended in McDonald reducing the lead after a quarter of an hour's play, and five minutes later a swift cross shot from Taylor glared of Bull into the not the sides being again upon even terms. Notts put on pressure to regain the lead, and Muir among others brought off one clever save from McMain. At the other end Everton forced a corner, from which Toman nearly scored, and from a similar concession Wolstenholmes shot high over the bar. Everton were now having more of the play, and looked like increasing their lead, but at the interval the scores were unchanged. The second portion opened with an attack upon the home goal Sharp and Toman being now conspicuous, but both Lewis and Montgomery were safe, and Suter was not placed in difficulties. Play gradually found its way to midfield, and it was some time before there was much interest evinced in the proceedings. MaConnachie retired for some minutes owing to a slight injury, and during his absence Chalmers failed to notifies an opening that came his way. Play generally was of a desultory character, neither side appearing to unduly ever themselves, the players being evidently laboring up for the excessive finish, and when the end came the result was Everton 2 goals, Notts County 2.

NEW BRIGHTON TOWERS 0 EVERTON RESERVES 2
April 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Liverpool Senior Cup final Replay
A fairly good muster of spectators assembled at the Towers ground last night to witness the replayed Liverpool Club final between the above clubs. With a few exceptions both clubs were represented by their reserves teams, the men turning out as follows : - New Brighton Towers: - Bradshaw, goal, French and Steplehn, backs, MCCartney, Ellison, and Hughes (j), halfbacks, Ford, Greenm Hammed Roberts, and Hour, forwards. Everton: - Kitchen, goals, Watson, and Molyneux, backs, Blthe, Taylor, and Gordon halfbacks Roach, Dawson, Settle Gray, and Gee forwards. The visitors started operations, and the game, at once opened out of an interesting character the ball travelling from end to end with great rapidity. The bulk of the attack came from the home forwards, especially the right wing pair, but Watson and Molyneux defended so finely that Kitchen was not seriously troubled. The visitor forwards broke away in a pretty combined run, but Settle was cleverly robbed by French, who he was becoming dangerous. Following a spell of even play, the Evertonians executed strong pressure, but it only served to bring out the good points in the opposing defence. Ford ran well, and wound up with an accurate centre, but Hammond getting his head to the ball, it was easily cleared by Kitchen, whilst shortly afterwards the latter had also to fist out, from Green. Gee than swing the leather neatly across, however maintained the pressure and obtained a rather soft goal through the instrumentality of Dawson, who headed into the net, when Bradshaw was out of position. Half tine Everton 1 goal Towers nil. On resuming Kitchen was soon called upon but he cleared his lines in excelled style. The visiting right wing pair then got clean through but Bradshaw coolly waited and took the ball from their toes whilst in rapid following the home custodian also safely negotiated a fast ground shot from the foot of Settle. The Towerites now took a slight lead, but they were rarely permitted to get within shooting distance of Kitchen's charge. Once Ellison drove grandily from halfback but the Everton custodian cleared cleverly from under the bar, Roberts then gave Hammond a glorious chance, within a few yards of goal, but that player sent the leather the wrong side of the upright. Dawson completely beat the home backs, but Bradshaw ran out, and tipped his shot over the bar. The Everton left wing outpaced all oppositing and the inside man scored with a lovely oblique shot that gave Bradshaw no chance whatever. No further scoring was done and an interesting game ends Everton 2 goals, New Brighton Towers nil.

EVERTON 4 MANCHESTER CITY 0
April 30 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The season closed at Goodison Park on Saturday with the meeting of the above teams before some 10,000 spectators. Turner, the new recruit was included in the Everton team as outside left, and owing to any injury to Eccles, Watson again figured in the team, while the City played Cassidy (Late of Newton Heath). The teams at 3-30 faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goals, Balmer, and Watson, backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle (captain), and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Turner (j), forwards. Manchester City: - Williams (c) goal, Read, and Jones, backs, Moffatt, Smith, and Holmes halfbacks, Merediths, Ross, Gillespie, Cassidy, and Williams (f), forwards. Everton with the assistance of the breeze, could make little headway during the opening stages when Meredith twice look like getting through. Eventually Toman got away and finished up with a clever shot, which Williams fisted clear, only to find Turner quickly on the ball, which was placed safely into the net. This success came after play had been five minutes in progress, and for some little time the Everton leftwing pair were busy in the City quarters. A smart pass to Proudfoot was promising when read tripped up the Everton centre, and a free kick came to nothing, it was some time the visitors got into a good Strudle and then most of their incursions were by Ross and Meredith the former on one occasion spoiling a clever movement by laying offside. Keeping up the pressure, the veteran had an excellent opening from Cassidy, but shot high over the bar, and when again getting into position, the attention of Abbott were too close a character. Returning Turner put on a strong run, and looked like scoring a second success, when Jones fouled him, and the free kick led up to a spirited attack without result. After keeping out a couple of warm shots, Boyle put in a clever effort, and the ball going to Proufoot, the latter scoring easily after this second reverse, the City forwards were seen to much better advantage but play slackened down considerably to the interval when the score stood –Everton 2 goals Manchester City nil. Immediately on resuming Turner and McDonald were conspicuous with good play, which led to Williams conceding a corner kick. This was safely cleared though directly afterwards Turner after a smart run added a third goal. This was soon afterwards followed by another from Toman, who scored was a swift high shot, and it was now apparent that the Mancunians were clearly outplayed. Late on the City left wing put in good work, but was slow when finishing touches were required and Balmer had no difficulty in keeping his line intact. A smart shot from Toman struck the bar, and just on the close the City goal had a narrow escape. Result Everton 4 goals, Manchester City nil.

WOLVERHAMPTON RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
April 30 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
At Molneux Ground Wolverhampton, before 2,000 spectators. The visiors had a strong team but Wanderers committee gave three local juniors a trail. In the first half the visitors were completely outplayed at all points, and only once got dangerous. Kitchen had a lot of work given him, and the Wanderers scored after 20 minutes through Bryan, and a little later Kitchen fail as he was trying to reach a ball, and Bewar put it into the net. At half time Wanderers led by 2 goals to nil. Play in the second half was for a time of a more even character, and then the Wanderers swarmed round the Everton goal. The local goalkeeper had nothing in the attack of Everton being very weak. The Wanderers were continually attacked, but Oldham scored for Everton, who lost by two goals to one.

EVERTON REVIEW
April 30 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton completed their League fixtures in brilliant fashion, and by inflicting a four clear goals defeat on Manchester City have had the satisfactory of annexing the full quota of points from their opponents, both home and away Everton players entered into the contest with a vigour and determination which early on gave evidence that there could be only one possible result and that a decisive victory. So completely won they the masters of the situation, that with the exception of a short period in the initial stages of the first half the visitors could make little or no headway whatever and the only dangerous part of the City force was on the right wing. Very rarely this season has the Everton team been seen to such advantage and why this should have been the case is a difficult matter to determine. With one exception and that certainly a capable one namely, the introduction of ex-Stoke player, on the extreme left, the team was practically the same that has done duty for the past two months, put on the form displayed during this period the exhibition given against Manchester might have emanated from an actively different set of players. To one a comes a naturally the question. ‘‘why'' should there not have been more of this style of play throughout the season ? and, after witnessing their complete mastery over their most recent visitors the sprinting becomes more aggressive than ever. But the only matter in which the Everton team has been consistent during the winter, has to make use of a pairdazional statement, been its inconsistency. That the team possesses ability of a high order, was forcibly brought to notice in the last match of the season, but so woefully erratic have been their displays, that their present position in the table was scarcely be wondered at. However the made amule amends in their final game, and stoped somewhat for the many previous shortcomings, which have caused such astonishment, and regret amongst their supporters. It was not in any individual that improvement was particularly noticeable but the great success was due to the excellent understanding that appeared to pervade every part of the team. The incursion of Turner had much to do with the effectencey of the front rank, and it was most appropriate for the clever lad from the Potteries that he should signalise his first appearance in his new colour by scoring the first goal of the match. The Everton halves, who have surely been seen to such advantage in any match, undoubtedly laid the foundation for the victory. Abbott had a warm pale to tackle in Ross, and Meredith, but though often outemnceured, he struck manfully to his men, and never threw up the sponge. For all round efficiently, however Boyle must be awarded chief praise. Without the sembance of anything approaching illegal methods, he circumrensed the Manchester inside forwards, completely smothering Gillespie, and thereby altering all the preconceived attacks of the visitors front rank. He was always on the ball, forcing the game in fine style, and his performance must effectually silence detractors- or indeed such there be- for some considerable time. The effect of his play on the visitors can not be over estimated, and being ably assisted by Wolstenholmes who, in his customary cool, collected manner, accompelled a vast amount of useful work the City forwards could rarely get going. It was a pleasure to witness the smart work exhibited by the Everton front rank. The left wing was the more prominent for McDonald acted as a sort of universal provider for Turner, and the pair tumbled into each other's methods as if they had been partners throughout the season. The Jarrow youth bids fair to become out of the smartest forward Everton have and for some time. He is a hard worker and plays with his head, and if Turner should provide a particularly effective wing. He does not believe in waiting for the ball to cross to him, and does not consider it come across until he does obtain possession which when combined with kicks much experience should produce for Everton a first class forward. Toman also shaped very well, and the goal he score was a splendid effort by the finest shot of the match and possibly if his previous failure have been due to a persistent spell of bad luck. Sharp indulged in fine sprints and pretty centres, and Proudfoot plodded along with his usual persistency. The new back Watson, who partnered Balmer on the left wing, began in very dismal fashion, and Meredith trotted round him with consummately ease in the early stages, but afterwards he settled down and gave a fairly satisfactory display. Balmer was in rare form, and could easily lay claim in being the best back on the field. Whilst Muir who was rarely severely tested, came through the ordeal unscathed. Manchester gave a very disappointing display, being slow on the ball, and often outstripped in speed by the opponents. The famous right wing began in sprinted fashion, but failed to keep the pace, and in the second half for some unaccountable reason, was fairly starved. Meredith was the pick of the forwards, his fine turn of speed and accurate centres provoking universal admiration, but the inside men invariably made a muddle of his crosses. The veteran Ross was not so comspcuios as had been anticipated, and the whole line suffered severely from the persistent attentions of the Everton halfbacks. The half backs were but represented by Smith in the centre, but the backs were only moderate, and Jones does not like wising, improving with age. The result was a pleasant termination to the reason and the curtain could not have been rung down at Goodison Park under more cheerful conditions.

LIVERPOOL AMD DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 30 April 1900
By The Loiterer
Both our senior clubs have finished the season well, Everton especially going “great guns.” Manchester City have had a rough time of it with the Liverpool clubs, as they have not obtained a single point out of the four engagements. Whatever failings the clubs have experienced throughout the season, both can claim the maximum number of points out of their Manchester friends. Manchester, I notice, are entitled to be dubbed the champions of Lancashire, as per League table, but we have some satisfaction out of them. This has been a very unsatisfactory season with both Everton and Liverpool teams, and although they are in the middle line in the table, many people think they ought to have shown better results. I am with them. To obtain such meagre figures special exertions have had to be made by the executive of the Liverpool club, and the managers of Everton have had an anxious time of it.
Just now Messrs, Molyneux and Watson are busy signing on, and both have done good business in the Potteries. Apart from them transactions, which, I think, will result in both our clubs being the ricker in talent, most of the players required have signed on readily. The Everton men wanted better terms, which means more money, and the directors naturally asked for better results. I don’t know whether the men slipped themselves against Manchester City, but in this match they showed what they can do, which in itself is a bit of a novelty. Here, too, I understand, the signing on process has progressed, and only Toman and Sharp are holding aloof.

EVERTON FINISH WELL
Athletic News - Monday 30 April 1900
By the Loiterer
The last League match of the season at Goodison Park turned up trump for the home team, who simply romped home four goals to none.  Amongst the team that did the execution was three men who have seem in the Everton ranks so often, and one made his first appearance. The isolated individual was Turner, of Stoke, and the others were McDonald, who has done duty in easy matches in the centre, and Watson, full back, from Dundee. All three came out very well, but whilst Turner can claim credit for scoring two goals, the others were always prominent, and in passing I may say the Everton team gave a creditable display. Both sides were supposed to be at their best, but here are the names of the players and my readers one judge for themselves. Everton.- Muir, goal; Balmer and Watson, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Turner, forwards. Manchester City;- Williams, goal; Reed and Jones, backs; Moffatt, Smith and Holmes, half-backs; Meredith, Ross, Gillespie, Cassidy, and P. Williams. Referee; Mr. T. Armitt. Manchester City went off with some dash, only to find the Everton defence all right, and then Proudfoot got hold and made play for Toman, who shot. The Manchester keeper saved well, but not clearing far enough Turner rushed up and scored. This happened after some five minutes’ play. The City right wing put in strong work from the kick-off, Balmer coming in handy from Meredith’s centre, and spoiling both Gillespie and Ross. Then Everton had a turn and the Manchester goal had some lucky escapes. Williams saving from Sharp, but was again at fault in his clearances, and luckily for his side one of the backs was in the way of a return. The
EVERTON MEN WERE TOO QUICK
For their opponents, and for a long time play was in the Manchester half. At length it opened out and Cassidy was to the fore with good work, only to find his centre go wrong. Ross shooting high over the bar. The visitors held the upper hand for some time, but their attacks were badly directed, and the home defence had nothing much on, the only item of interest being a good attempt by Meredith. Still they attacked and earned two corners, the last of which Turner spoiled by unexpectedly turning up and baffling Moffatt as he was about to shoot. The play was interesting with Manchester doing the more pressing. Meredith being always prominent. Everton, however, woke up, but after an attack were again thrown on the defensive, Cassidy having hard lines with a shot that struck the post. After this all went wrong with the visitors. Boyle put in splendid work, and a shot from him was cleared by Williams, but Proudfoot got the ball and gave the Manchester man no chance of saving, and to the interval Everton were the cleverer team. Everton started the second half in much the same way, and had decidedly the best of matters, early on McDonald gave Williams a puzzling shot to negotiate, and the best he could do was give a corner. This did not matter much as Everton, playing them all over the place, had always a bit in hand and eventually Proudfoot put in a grand shot which Williams fumbled, and Turner rushed up and scored.
A FOURTH CAME FROM TOMAN
And this finished the scoring part of the game. But there was plenty of time left, and some easy work by the home team ought to have given the visitors confidence, but although they did the more aggressive work their efforts lacked method and go, and Balmer and Watson had very little exacting work to do, and in the end Manchester were beaten by four goals to none. After starting in such a promising way it was surprising how the City men cut up, but the first goal did not deter them in the least, in fact, after this reverse they played up better, Meredith was the most prominent man in the early part of the game, and had hard luck more than once. Beyond holding their own in the open there was not much in their attacks and at their best they did not give the Everton defence any anxious work, and in the concluding stages, when they had a turn, Balmer always nipped in at the finish and cleared. No, the City team met an eleven a bit cleverer, and certainly a more livelier lot of players, I should say that in all parts Everton had the advantage, for Turner was as good as any of their forwards, and the rest were much better than those who did duty for Manchester. At half-back Everton held a distinct advantage, as the wing men played splendidly, and in the centre Boyle was at his best. Further behind the team had the pull, as Watson was safe in tackling, and Balmer made no mistake in what he had to do, whereas both Read and Jones were often in difficulty.

EVERTON v MANCHESTER CITY
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 30 April 1900
Everton played the last league match of the season on Saturday at Goodison Park, where Manchester City were the visitors. The weather was quite summer-like in its brilliancy, though a somewhat high wind prevailed. With one exception, Everton relied upon the same eleven which has performed recently. The outside left had been Everton’s weak point throughout the season, but this has now become strengthened by the inclusion of Turner, late of Stoke, who made his first appearance on Saturday on behalf of his new club. Cassidy superseded Dougal as outside left on behalf of the City, who were strongly represented. Boyle won the toss, and elected to play with the sun in his eyes, but he had the benefit of a good breeze, Gillespie kicking off in the presence of some 10,000 spectators. In the early stages of the game Sharp and Toman on the one hand, and Ross and Meredith on the other, threaded their way through, but in answer to these moves Jones and Balmer replied magnificently. A couple of free kicks then fell to the home side, after which Meredith made a great run, which he supplemented by a very poor shot. A little later F. Williams forced a corner, but this gave the Evertonians no trouble whatever, and the Mancunians very soon fell back into their own quarters. Everton were playing with commendable consistency, and some very pretty moves were executed by the front rank. Wolstenholme kept his forwards well employed, and securing possession, made a brilliant run and shot, C. Williams saving magnificently; but he failed to get the ball far enough away, and Turner signalised his appearance for his new club by scoring the first goal for Everton after five minutes’ play, much to the delight of the home contingent. Even play ensued for a while, following which the City assumed a very aggressive attitude, Meredith putting in a very fine sprint before centring the ball, and Muir looked all over a beaten man, until Watson dashed into the fray, and cleared in brilliant style. After some short time had been cut to waste in useless fiddling about the centre line, Boyle passed up to Proudfoot, and then Turner and McDonald became very busy. Turner showed up wonderfully well, but he was at last crowded out, and, although McDonald afterwards continued the move, the ball was eventually sent into touch. Smith was then penalised for fouling Proudfoot, the home side gaining no advantage from the free kick. This, however, was followed by a desperate attack on the City goal, during which Proudfoot, Toman, and Turner each endeavoured to defeat Williams, but without avail. Ross was again guilty of fouling an opponent, and when penalised by the referee, “Jimmy” took exception and proceeded to argue the point, but Mr. Armitt promptly quietened him. Everton continued to maintain a warm onslaught on the Mancunian’s charge, but the fine defence of Jones and Williams prevented any score. A free kick against Boyle led up to an attack on Muir, F. Williams racing along the wing and putting the ball across the goal, where Ross was lying in wait, but, with practically an open goal, he shot a couple of yards over the bar, the same player, a moment later, making a further abortive attempt. During the next few minutes the City were very persistent, without, however,. Opening their score. Proudfoot displayed exceedingly poor judgement by lunging forward like a Rugby full back, trusting to luck for somebody to rush up to take possession, and this gave Williams a chance of running out to clear-an opportunity of which he was not slow to avail himself. For some time afterwards the feature of the game was the magnificent play shown by Meredith who was here, there, and almost everywhere where his presence could be effected. His dashes down his wing, during which he displayed great speed, fairly electrified the spectators, and his shots while on the run were very fine, although, unfortunately for the City, none of them took effect, but nevertheless, they were very near the mark. A brilliant run was next executed by Turner, who swung the ball across to the opposite wing, where Sharp secured possession and centred, but unfortunately no one was able to receive the sphere, which went outside. Meredith was again to the fore with one of his characteristic runs, and from his centre the Everton goal narrowly escaped capture, Cassidy striking the upright. From this point Everton took up the attack, Jones badly tripping Turner, but the ensuing free kick yielded nothing of a tangible nature. A little later the home side were again attacking strongly, Boyle sending in a grand shot from long range and striking the crossbar, but from C. Williams’s clearance Proudfoot scored Everton’s second goal a few minutes before the interval. Prior to the whistle sounding Williams was frequently called upon, Turner and others giving him plenty of scope of displaying his abilities in goal. Half-time score. Everton 2 goals, Manchester City nil. Proudfoot restarted the game in the presence of quite 12,000 onlookers. Everton quickly made tracks along the centre, Proudfoot giving Turner a further opportunity of displaying his prowess. The outside left raced away at top speed, and after dodging Read passed to McDonald, who shot in grandly. C. Williams just turning the ball over the line. The subsequent corner proved abortive, but Everton would not be denied, and continued to attack with great persistency. The left wing were doing the bulk of the work, and several times the visiting defence were in a tight corner, McDonald shot in with perfect precision, and just as Williams was in the act of scooping the ball out, Turner outmanoeuvred him, and scored a third goal, to the accompaniment of tremendous cheering. From the centre the visitors made straight away for the Everton goal, but their stay did not last long, the ball being tipped to the home left winger, who speedily made tracks for the other end. Lively work by Boyle was followed by a peculiar shot from the same quarter, the ball landing on the top of the end stand. A free kick changed the scene of hostilities, some wild attempts being made by the Manchester men to capture the Everton goal. A beautiful bit of work by Turner and McDonald ended in the first-named sending in a grand shot, which Williams just succeeded in scooping out, this being followed by a positive miss on the part of Toman, who had almost an open goal. Boyle shot in again, one of the home backs clearing somewhat weakly, and Toman made no mistake this time, placing the ball into the net for the fourth time, without giving Williams the slightest chance. The City were now a beaten team, and Everton had matters all their own way, the Manchester goal having several further narrow escapes. The spectators were quite delighted with the display of the Evertonians, who were seen too much greater advantage than in recent games, Turner making a wonderful difference in the movements of the forward line. No further score came, and Everton were easily victorious by 4 goals to nil. Teams;-
Everton.- Muir, goal; Watson and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, McDonald, and Turner, forwards.
Manchester City;- Williams, goal; Read and Jones, backs; Moffatt, Smith and Holmes, half-backs; Meredith, Ross, Gillespie, Williams, and Cassidy, forwards.