SHEFFIELD UNITED 5 EVERTON 0
January 1 1900. The Liverpool Courier
Exceptional interest caused in the meeting between Everton and Sheffield United in the Cutlery town on Saturday. The Everton team accompanied by Messrs Bainbridge and Taylor, and R.Molyneux the secretary, travelled from central Station by a train at 10-45, and on arrival at Sheffield drove directly to the ground. The sun was shinning brilliantly and the sides, which won the toss, would have the advantage of both wind and sun. Perhaps owing to the early kick off, the spectators did not turn up in such large numbers as had been anticipated, but still at the kick off, there would be quite eight thousand spectators. Beers was the only absentee from the United eleven, and at 2-15 the teams faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Eccles and Balmer, backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle and Abbott, halfbacks Sharp (j), Taylor (captain), Proudfoot, Settle and Gray, forwards. Sheffield United: - Foulkes, goal, Thickett, and Boyle backs, Johnson Morren, and Needham, halfbacks, Bennett, Barnes, Hedley, Almond, and Preist, forwards. Referee Mr.A.J.Barker. Everton won the toss and following a few exchanges the Everton left wing put in some nice play, which compelled Boyle to kick back to Foulkes. The custodian missed the ball, but had time tto recover himself and prevent it rolling over the line to the net. Some pretty combination among the United forwards ended in Balmer fouling Hedley close to the twelve yards line, but the free kick came to nothing, and the Everton forwards again made headway, Settle causing Foukles to save on the line. The visitors continued to maintain play in their opponents half, and Foulkes only scooped a magnificent shot from Proudfoot out at the expense of a corner. Eventually the United paid a temporary visit to the visitors half, but they gave the Everton defenders little trouble, the game so far having been altogether in favour of the visitors. Two corners in rapid succession fell to them, but they could not force the ball past Foulkes, who was tested with a fine shot from long range by Balmer. The visiting forwards and halfbacks worked together to perfection, and quite outplayed the Blades, but in front of goal their effectiveness seemed to die away, one or two chances of opening the scoring being lost. Taylor with a lighting shot sent the ball over the crossbar, and then Priest spurted along the wing and centred, but Balmer with a hugh kick transferred operations to the other end where after some nice work by the right wing Proudfoot was ruled off side. Immediately afterwards Needham fouled Proudfoot, as he was getting nicety away, but the free kick brought them no advantage, and then the game was stopped for a few moments owing to an injury to Boyle's knee. He continued playing, but limped painfully. After Muir had cleared a weak shot from Hedley, even play followed, Abbott on one occasion smartly robbing Bennett and Barnes. Some of the Everton players, though a misunderstanding stopped playing for a moment and at once the United forwards went off, and Hedley, beating Boyle who was limping, rushed clear through and scored with a shot which give Muir no chance. Right from the kick off the Blades dashed off with great determination, and from Hedley's centre Bennett headed into the net, but the point was rightly disallowed for offside. Encouraged by the cheers of the crowd, there was now no stopping the Blades and a terrific shot by Hedley only just missed the mark. At the other end Settle got through nicely, but had to pass back to Taylor, who put in a shot along the ground which, was altogether too slow to trouble Foulkes. Without wasting time Sheffield were again on the aggressive and after Muir had saved a stringing shot from Needham they obtained a corner. Following this there were several exchanges in the Everton goalmouth, Barnes eventually getting possession and scoring United's second goal, with a swift shot, the ball passing Muir and lodging in the corner of the net. Owing to Boyle's injury Taylor went to centre half, Boyle doing what he could at outside right. Though Everton occasionally attacked, United had the best of the matters up to the interval. Half time Sheffield United 2 goals Everton nil. There would be 10,000 spectators present on the resumption. Boyle turned out again as outside right but his injured leg was evidently paining him. The United were the first to make headway, but Everton retaliated and Settle had a pop at goal, which went over the bar. A moment later Boyle appeared to have shot the ball pass Foulkes, when one of the Blades rushed up and kicked it away. Then Everton players strongly appeared for the goal, but the referee after consulting one of the linesman, disallowed the point. Barnes headed a third for the United from a corner taken by Johnson. Priest placed the fourth from a penalty kick , and Hedley put on a fifth. Final result United 5 goals, Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 HURST RAMBLERS 1
January 1 1900. The Liverpool Courier
At Goodison Park. The home team started against the sun, and following a run by Gee on the home left the Ramblers returned smartly, and Brown almost scored in the first minute. Hague also having hard times shortly afterwards. The Ramblers had much the best of matters at the outset and eventually scored from a free kick. Hagues meeting the ball. Everton made capital attack, but without any tangible result. After 35 minutes Dawson drew level from a corner, and just before the interval, Oldham scored again. Half time Everton 2 goals Hurst 1. Everton showed considerably improved from the resumption, and in less than five minutes Roche scored a third goal after the Hurst custodian had made two smart clearances. Kitchen afterwards scored a penalty kick. The game was entirely in favour of Everton, and won by 4 goals to 1. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Crelly, and Molyneux, backs, Murphy, Gordon and Blythe, halfbacks Roche, Dawson, Oldham, Toman, and Schofield, forwards.

SHEFFIELD UNITED V EVERTON
January 1 1900. The Sheffield Independent.
The Sheffield United play against Everton at Bramell lane yesterday and during the week it seemed likely that a large call would have to be made upon the Reserve. But as it happily turned out things were not so had as they seemed, and a few days at Matlock had such a marvelously beneficial effect that with the solitary exception of Beers every man of the first team was able to participate in the game. Instead of the half feared the league leaders succeeded in gaining a brilliant victory by five goals to nil in a style which proved that there was nothing very radically wrong with the team, although several players were certainly somewhat “off colour” Beers place on the inside left was creditably filled by Barnes of the reserves, who played so well as to prove his presence in the team no source of weakness whatever, indeed the second team man, who has usually played on the left wing accommodated himself to his company excellently, and distinguished himself by scoring two of the fine goals. Needham, who had been out of the team for two matches, was loudly cheered when he was seen emerging from the pavilion at the head of his men, and it was somewhat of a surprise to see Boyle turn out after what one had heard of his condition. As for Everton they thought a strong right half-back, who had been injured, resuming his place for the first twenty minutes of the game assisted by wind and sun, the visitors played excellently, displaying pretty and scientific football without, however, succeeding in piercing the strong United defence. But gradually the Sheffielders began to assert a supericrity, and after Hedley had opened, the scoring by a good run and smart shot, there was really only one team in it. A truly wonderful change came over the game, and the wearers of the red and white enjoyed a lead of two goals to none at the interval, for a time in the second half Everton played up pluckily, and it, is questionable whether they ought not to have been allowed a goal which they claimed for the ball going over the line soon after change of ends, but generally speaking the play of the visitors was of an indifferent character, and during the last quarter of an hour they were so completely outplayed the United added three more goals, and won decisively and easily as already stated. The game was watched by 10,000 or 11,000 spectators. Winning the toss was a decided advantage to the Evertonians, who, defending the goal, at the Bramell lane end of the ground, had a fresh breeze and a brought sun assisting them. Under these circumstance it is not suprising that they had the better of the exchanges in the early part of the game. The visitors at once advanced, and Boyle, the United back, passing, back to Foulkes, the home goalkeeper only just managed to prevent the ball rolling through. Foulkes just managed to stop a dangerous long shot from Taylor, and Everton continued to press he was also called upon to save a shot from Proudfoot. The United at length began to play up, and several vigorous rushes were made to the other end, the visitors' back play, however, being too good to allow Muir being called upon, once Morren sent a long flying shot near the mark, but the Sheffielders attempts at goal, were rare. After a brief stoppage owing to Boyle of Everton, being hurt. Hedley got through for the United, and called upon Muir with a low shot, which, not being very fast, the visitors' custodian easily saved. Play was now even, the Sheffielders quite holding their own in spite of wind and sun. Gradually the league leaders began to force the play into their opponents' territory, and met with success, for Hedley, making a smart run, beat Muir with a sharp oblique shot, and scored amidst loud applause, after 30 minutes play. Returning to the attack the United got the ball again past Muir, Bennett heading through, but an appeal for offside against Priest, who centred the ball, was allowed, and the goal did not count. Nevertheless the Sheffielders continued to attach with Great Spirit, and Hedley skimmed the bar with a lovely shot. A beautifully effort by Needham caused Muir to bestir himself to save, and the home front rank, continuing to press, Barnes succeeded in adding a second goal with a very good shot just inside the post, which quite beat Muir. These successes of the home team, gained against the wind and sun, were loudly and deservedly cheered. The second goal was scored seven minutes before half-time. Everton made an occasional rush to the other end, but the Sheffielders, who had wonderfully improved since the opening stages of the game, still had the better of the argument with the interval drawing near. At half-time led by two goals to nil –a very smart achievement, considering the conditions under which such a lead was obtained. Shortly before the change of ends Everton made an alteration in the arrangement of their team. Boyle going from centre half to outside right, Sharp coming inside right and Taylor centre-half when play was resumed, Everton, were the first to advance in anything like dangerous fashion but Settle, shot just over the bar, indeed the visitors had the better of the opening play in the second half, just as they had in the first. Foulkes fumbling with the ball from a low shot by Boyle, let it slip, and Everton appealed that it had been through, but the referee, after consulting one linesman, disallowed the claim for a goal. Everton attacking again were granted a free kick for Proudfoot being tripped just outside the penalty limit, but the home goal was successful defended. Then the Sheffielders had a turn of attacking, and Barnes tested Muir with a long shot, Muir saving just under the bar, and just afterwards Needham shot just over. The visitors then made another dash, and Settle sent in a capital shot, which, however, Foulke, saved well. Play was fast, exciting, and now fairly even. At length United began to press with determination, but Muir saved his goal. Several times in clever style, stopping Sharp low shots from Barnett and Priest, and tripping a splendid high one from Bennett over the bar, giving a fruitless corner. Assisted by the wind the United were having the best of the play. After being kept on the defensive for some time, Everton made several spurts, without, however, getting dangerous and although they got a corner they failed to improve upon it, trying again, however, a good centre by into the home goal mouth looked ominous, Morren, however, coming to the rescue in time. Johnson gave a corner but the visitors could not get through, and the game degenerated in interest, with a quarter of an hour left for play the Sheffielders attacked hotly, and from a corner well taken by Johnson, Barnes headed a third goal. Later Bennett was busy on the home right but Muir saved a good shot from him, and Balmer cleared from a centre. Boyle of Everton was injured in a collision with his name-sake, but soon resumed, whereupon the Blades quickly carried the war into the enemy's camp once more, and one of the Everton men handling the ball intentionally in the 12 yards limit, a penalty kick was granted, and Priest taking it, scored a fourth goal, Muir making a galliant effort to save, just touching the ball, but failing to stop it. The success of the home team, continued, and two minutes before time Hedley, with a splendid long shot, added a fifth goal. United thus gaining a brilliant and well-earned victory as under.
Sheffield United 5 goals, Everton 0 goals.
Teams: - Sheffield United: - Foulke, goal; Thickett and Boyle, backs; Johnson, Morrent, and Needham, half-backs; Bennett, Barnes, Hedley, Almond, and Priest, forwards. Everton: - Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Referee Mr. Barker, Huntey.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News- Monday, January 1 1900
By the Loiterers
Everton have again demonstrated what an in and out team they are. After victories at Manchester and over Stoke at Everton, and then drawing with the Albion at West Bromwich, Christmas was very kind in bringing five points out of a possible six, and great hopes were entertained that the team would be the first to take down Sheffield United. The play, apart from the result, at Goodison Park on Christmas Day, justified the feeling of confidence in the team’s ability to run the United to at least a draw, but instead they go down, and in a most decisive manner. Five goals to none is a big thing at any time, but coming on the top of most creditable performance it makes one wonder where we are. whatever defects there are in the team-and they can spotted-no matter how they play or what the results are, a licking like this wants a lot of explaining, and I decline to undertake the task. Fortunately they are in a much better position than their rivals, as out of 15 matches yet to play nine are at home and six away, but they are not so exacting as those Liverpool have to go through, and I think they will retain their position with comparative ease, with all the good things the clubs enjoy it is not a satisfactory situation to dwell upon.
Hurst Ramblers, one of the few teams to take down Everton’s number in Lancashire Combination games, were due at Goodison on Saturday, where Everton, it was anticipated, would walk the visitors round to some tune. The Ramblers gave a fine account of themselves, however, and held the lead for thirty-five minutes, during which time they were distinctly the better side. The home team were unaccountably off colour, such big lights as Toman, Gee, and Oldham passing and shooting wretchedly. They just managed to pop on a couple before the interval, though on the play they hardly deserved the lead. The second half saw them chalk up two more, the finish coming with the Ramblers being beaten by four goals to one. The visitors gave a flattering show in the initial half, showing any amount of pluck, but failed to stay in the second.

EVERTON BADLY BEATEN
Athletic News- Monday, January 1, 1900
By Nemo
Sheffield United created something of a surprise on Saturday. The world had been led to believe by some enterprising journalist with a vivid imagination and a facile pen that half the players who form the first team of the League leaders were in a state of collapse or prostration owing to illness and injuries, and there was an impression abroad that the United were very likely to suffer their first League defeat when they faced the Everton team at Bramall-lane. But there is evidently marvellous recuperative influence in the air of Matlock, for, would you believe it, instead of a United team composed largely of reserves, we actually saw the full strength of the League leaders with the solitary exception of Beers, turn out and inflict a sensational defeat by five goals to nothing upon the Evertonians. The only reserve man in the United team was Barnes, who had created a good impression on Boxing Day in the friendly match with Wednesday. As for Everton they had Wolstenholme, their right half-back, back again in his place, and were fully represented. The players, under the direction of Mr. Barker, of Hanley, turned out like this;-
Sheffield United.- Foulke, goal; Thickett, and Boyle, backs; Johnson, Morren, and Needham, half-backs; Bennett, Barnes, Hedley, Almond, and Priest, forwards. Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenhomes, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. The match, which as may be imagined from the score, was a rather one0sided affair, was witnessed by about 10,000 people. Winning the toss and being helped by a strong breeze and a bright sun, Everton began operations in a style which promised far different things from what were actually seen. For a considerable time their forwards were so busy that the United defence was kept hard at work repelling them. Very early on Foulke nearly made a mess of a slow pass back to him by his comrade Boyle, and only just prevented the ball rolling over the line. The United goalkeeper also fumbled somewhat with a good long shot from Proudfoot. Gradually the attacking Evertonians were driven back, and we saw the United going for goal in the old familiar style, despite wind and sun, and when half an hour of the first half had gone by, Hedley threaded his way through and beat Muir with a sharp, oblique shot, and scored to the hugs delight of the crowd. Immediately afterwards Bennett headed through again, but as Priest, who centred the ball, was off-side, the point was not allowed. However, with only seven minutes of the first half to go, Barnes again defeated Muir with a capital shot, just inside the post, and so the Sheffielders led at the interval by two goals to none, and the spectators were greatly pleased, for under such circumstances they naturally expected a big score to be run up when the home team should have the wind and sun after change of ends. But again Everton, who had re-arranged their team slightly.
BOYLE GOING OUTSIDE RIGHT
Sharp inside, and Taylor centre-half, went off with a dash, and the United opened the second half by defensive work. Everton appealed for a goal when Foulke, fumbling a very slow shot from Boyle, let the ball slip and then fetched it back again. To me it looked suspiciously like being over the line, but the referee, after a somewhat lengthy consultation with one of the linesmen, declined to allow a goal. Soon the Sheffielders set to work in earnest in attack again, and Muir was busy stopping stinging shots from Barnes, Bennett, Priest, and Morren. The Everton custodian got rid of all these in capital style, and it began to look as if there was to be no more scoring, unless the visitors should manage to notch a point by one of their sudden surprise rushes, wherein Settle was active, and once tested Foulke hard with a stinging shot. But with a quarter of an hour to go the United swooped down in irresistible fashion, and before the end came they actually put on
THREE MORE GOALS
First Barnes headed through from a corner, then Priest scored from a penalty given for an Evertonian handling the ball in the 12 yards limit, and subsequently Hedley with a hot shot from long range further increased the score. Thus United won by five goals to nothing in brilliant fashion. The match was not the best we have had in Sheffield by a long way, and the slippery ground doubtless affected the play somewhat. Nevertheless, at times it was fast and exciting, though sometimes rather tame. United were very much the better team both in defence and attack. Without any player standing out brilliantly ahead of the others, it may be said that they played a sound, reliable and spirited game all round. A word of praise is due to Barnes, the reserve man, who at inside right made a very promising debut in First League football.as for Everton, they as a team made a very mediocre display, and proved themselves about the weakest opponents the leaders have had to face this season. Although Muir was beaten five times, the big defeat suffered by the visitors must not be put do but rather to the shortcomings of the team as a whole. The Everton custodian made some very smart saves during the course of the match.

EVERTON v.  PRESTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 01 January 1900
LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
By “Perseus.”
North End travelled to Liverpool this morning in high hope of adding another victory to their list of holiday successes. Naturally, they were not exactly confident about their ability to beat Everton at Goodison Park, but they felt that at least they had an equal chance, which is a very comfortable feeling to have when away from home and against a team containing many fine, of so far this season somewhat disappointing, players. North End’s fortunes were entrusted to the eleven who appeared on Saturday, whilst Everton had one alteration as compared with the team at Sheffield, Blythe playing in place of Boyle, who was injured. Teams;- Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; J. Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. North End.- McBride, goal; Dunn and Orrell, backs; T. Eccleston, McIntyre, and Elliott, half-backs; Atherton, Gara, Stevenson, Pierce, and Henderson, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Lewis, Blackburn. The afternoon was damp and cold. Everton had a good reception, but not such a hearty one as was accorded North End, whose followers had come in good numbers by an excursion train. Dunn won the toss, and Proudfoot kicked off against the wind in the presence of about 10,000 spectators. Settle led a promising movement by the home forwards, and from Gray’s centre McBride kicked away. Athersmith dashed along the right, and there was a warm attack, during which both Balmer and Muir made timely clearances. Dunn was beaten by Settle, who, however, failed when his chance of shooting came. Taylor headed just outside, and next with North End pressing Gara  got off-side, while the same Prestonian was penalised amoment later for handling. So far Everton had a big share of play in spite of the wind and Dunn’s defence being at fault Gray sent in a shot which passed wide. The game became even, but Atherton got along the right and put in a centre from which Pierce missed a lovely chance. Sharp led on the home side, and McBride saved grandly from the outside right. Three corners followed to Everton in quick succession, and Taylor shot over when nicely placed. Then at the other end Stevenson drove in at lightning speed a long shot which passed over by very few inches. Play was full of interest, and after McBride had saved from Proudfoot and Sharp the former scored with a shot which the goalkeeper could not reach. This was after 20 minutes play. Everton had a balance of the play, pretty frequently breaking through to the last line of defence. From a free kick North End were dangerous, and Stevenson was near the mark. Dunn took a free kick for a trip on Atherton, who was fed a good deal. Eccles kicked away from Gara, and Taylor passed to Sharp, who was tripped by Orrell. Proudfoot and Settle made an attempt to get through, but the game was now more in favour of the visitors, Muir saving from Henderson and Atherton driving hard into the side net. North End were again pressing and Sharp took a corner, from which the goal had a narrow escape. Taylor tripped McIntyre, and Orrell was next penalised, the game being contested with a great amount of spirit. Blythe was the chief means of beating back an attack started by Eccleston, but from a free kick the visitors came again, and Muir saved gingerly from the right. Play went swiftly from end to end, free kicks abounding, and Everton kept their lead up to the interval. Half-time- Everton 1, North End 0.
As soon as play was restarted, the wind now blowing at the backs of the Everton players, McIntyre had to be smart in repelling a determined attack. Orrell and Balmer made big kicks in defence, Atherton and Gara forced a passage along the right, whilst Pierce and Henderson afterwards got down the left, only, however, to be beaten at the finish. Still North End made most of the running until, when the scene was changed Elliott was penalised closed in. Immediate danger was averted, though Taylor soon fouled an opportunity for a shot from long range. Settle shot sky high, and McBride saved easily from Gray, after which there was a rush by North End for whom Gara tried an unsuccessful shot. With 25 minutes of the second half gone Everton seemed likely to maintain the advantage gained in the first portion of the game, but their efforts at goal was not deadly. Play was not of the highest class, but North End were evidently determined to contest the issue right to the finish, and their periods of pressure prevented the home defence ever holding them too lightly. At the same time Everton looked capable of remaining on the right side; just before the finish indeed they came near scoring a second goal from a corner. Result; Everton 1 North End 0

ASSOCIATION NOTES
Liverpool Mercury – Monday 01 January 1900
Surely Everton is a most disappointing team! Just when one expects them to do something out of the common they fail in ignominious fashion, and court one of the heaviest defeats that have been chronicled against the club. The phenomenal  success of Sheffield United so far this season was, in view of the recent performances of the Everton club, likely to have been arrested, and during the first half-hour of the game matters certainly pointed in that direction. Having both wind and sun in their favour, the Everton forwards were during this period in excellent position for scoring and that they failed so repeatedly was simply astonishing to the crowd of spectators. At times they toyed with the United defenders, only to finish up with a shot that would not do credit to a third-rate team, and it was probably the repeated escapes that had so pronounced a bearing in favour of the Blades. It was not, however, until Boyle, who up to this period had been playing a brilliant centre-half game, had been injured that the home side appeared to make any progress, and, experienced as they are, they were now slow to take advantage of the then only weak spot in the visitors’ team. Their centre-forward, who had before this time been thoroughly well held in check, now had a free hand, and ere the interval arrived two goals were credited the United, much to the surprise of all who closely followed the run of the game. Had the Everton forwards been at all proficient in shooting they must have good at least twice in the first 20 minutes. They were too bent upon finesse, and, though they did succeeded in discomfiting their opponents, they eventually found to their cost that more dash and frequent shooting are more calculated to win games than pottering about in front of goal. During the second half the home side had the advantage of the elements, and on the heavy ground they were seen to very great advantage. The injury to Boyle necessitated a change that seemed to take the heart out of the Everton players. From the moment he was injured play took a turn in favour of the United, and point after point was put on, in a fashion that was never expected by the most sanguine of the home supporters. Without at all discounting the success of the United they were indeed lucky to win by so wide a margin, and it might also be stated that, clever team as they undoubtedly are, they should not find it necessary to resort to unfair tactics. Time after time in the second portion of the game did the Everton forward defeat up artfully without a penalty line. Proudfoot and Settle were twice victims when Foulkes was the only obstacle to success. Five goals to nil is a result somewhat foreign to the record of Everton, and must have come as a big surprise to local followers of the game. The second goal might have been saved, and there was no occasion for Balmer to handle the ball within the penalty line; otherwise the shots that took effort were placed altogether out of the reach of Muir, who throughout played one of his finest games. There was no apparent weakness in-defence-despite the tall scoring, but on the very heavy ground the movements of the Everton forwards were very laboured. Gray gave Settle but little assistance and, with Taylor removed from the right wing to centre-half, it was only natural that the Everton attack would be considerably weakened during the second portion of the game. Having once measured their stride, the Blades were a difficult lot to contend with, and their success was due primarily to greater efficiency in shooting. Every shot that Muir had to deal with required his best efforts-a remark that cannot by any means be applied to the work of the burly Foulkes, who, despite the occasion, must have had one of his lightest tasks. The United defence was thoroughly sound for the greater portion of the game, and having once obtained the lead the whole side played a thoroughly winning game. Five goals to nil did not at all represent the difference of merit between the teams. It was in finishing touches where the United excelled, and it would behove Everton forwards to emulate the latest example set them. North End are the visitors to Goodison Park this afternoon, and, following upon their fine performance against Notts Forest on Saturday, visitors to the ground may anticipate a capital afternoon’s sport.

EVERTON v SHEFFIELD UNITED
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 01 January 1900
Despite the rumours of cripples in the United ranks, the Blades, with the exception of Beers, turned out at full strength, and from the way the players disported themselves there was no indication whatever of the team labouring under any physical difficulty. The Everton side was at full strength, and at 2.15 the teams faced as follows;- Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle and Gray, forwards. Sheffield United; Foulkes, goal; Thickett, and Boyle, backs; Johnson, Morren, and Needham, half-backs; Bennett, Barnes, Hedley, Almond, and Priest, forwards. Everton winning the toss, had thew wind and sun in their favour, and at once made tracks towards Foulkes. The backs defended well, but on one occasion Boyle was in difficulties, and passing back to the custodian the latter missed he ball, but recovering himself prevented it rolling into the net. Following this Settle put in a clever shot, which the custodian managed to clear, and on a further return Proudfoot forced a corner to no avail. The United forwards rarely got away, and following play on the visitors’ left Taylor was given a fine chance of scoring, but failed badly. There appeared to be only one side in it as this juncture, but shooting was indifferent, though on one occasion Settle drove hard in only to find Foulkes in the line of direction. Priest and Almond raced down, but failed to exact quarter from Eccles, and following a couple of corner kicks to Everton, Balmer tried a long shot, to which Foulkes ably attended. An injury to Boyle delayed proceedings for some few minutes, and on the play being resumed it was noticeable that the clever Everton centre half was very much in difficulties. Taking advantage of this misfortune, the Blades concentrated their efforts to the centra, and in a trice Hedley rushed through and drove hard into the net, quite out of Muir’s reach. Barnes followed with another goal a few minutes afterwards, and at half-time the Blades were leading by 2 goals to nil. Just prior to the interval Boyle owing to his injury, went outside right, with Taylor centre half, and on resuming the Blades were again aggressive, but on one occasion Boyle put the ball forward, and as it appeared  to roll over the line into the net a claim was made for a goal, which however, the referee would not allow after consulting one of the linesmen. A few minutes later Barnes added a third, and following a further attack Balmer handled within the penalty line, and Priest put the ball into the net. It was only occasionally that Everton broke away, and ere time was called Hedley put on a fifth goal, the final score being- Sheffield United 5 Everton 0

EVERTON V PRESTON NORTH END.
January 2, 1900. The Sheffield Independent.
The League fixture was played at Liverpool today in dull weather before about 10,000 spectators. Both teams were in full strength. Everton kicked off and attacked vicariously, two corners being forced without result. North End relieved the pressure, but could not score, and Everton returning to the attack, Proudfoot scored. Hal-Time Everton 1, Preston 0. On resuming the spectators had increased to quite 15,000. Everton again assumed the aggressive, and Proudfoot, when in a nice position, shot over the bar. The visitors then attacked smartly, and Muir was called upon once, but the defence was very sound. Both goals were assailed in rapid succession but nothing further was added to the score. Result Everton 1 Preston North End 0.

SHEFFIELD UNITED RESERVES V EVERTON COMBINATION.
January 2, 1900. The Sheffield Independent.
The visited of the Everton Reserves team, which figures prominently in the Lancashire Combination, occupying the fourth position in the table of results came to Bramell lane, to play the Reserve of the champions of the First League proved a capital attraction, a very good crowd lining the ropes when the teams stepped on the green. The visitors were strongly represented, while the red and whites also played a powerful side in the field. The weather turned out most miserable, a dense fog hanging over the ground during the whole of the time play was in progress. The ground was on the heavy side, owing to the wet weather we have experienced during the last weeks, and coupled with the fog defracted greatly from the interest in the game. Owing chiefly to these two causes the captains mutually agreed to play only 35 minutes each way unluckily. For Everton Ellis Gee, their clever outside left, had the misfortune to strain his leg badly, and had to retire early in the game, the visitors thus being reduced to ten men. A similar accident befell the United in the early stages of the second half, Kent being accidententally injured, and also having to leave the field, taking no further part in the game, though how the accident occurred could not be seen from the press box owing to the defenseness of the mist. Thus for the greater part of the second half both teams were on an equality as regard numbers, play also being pretty even. United won the toss and defended the Bramell lane goal, Oldham kicked off prompt to time, the United immediately taking up the aggressive. A nice run by the whole of the home forwards, brought about the down fall of the visitor's citadel in the first minute, Field beating Kitchen with a lovely shot. The red and whites were clearly the better team thus far, and though Everton occasionally threatened danger to the home goal, they were unable to get near enough to trouble Kettle. Twenty minutes after the commencement Rogers again placed past Kitchean, the custodian having no chance of saving. Everton nettled by the double reverse, tried desperately to open their account, and shortly after the second success of the home team, the visitors got near Kettle, and Dawson shot through and registered the visitors first point. Even play ruled to the interval, when the score was United Reserves 2 goals, Everton Combination 1 goal. On changing ends play was very difficult to follow to the fog which had been growing dense for a good while, the game to a great extent being spoiled there by. Kitchen was the first to be called upon, punting away a long shot from the centre Everton now woke up and carried play to the shoreham street goal, and after about seven minutes they were rewarded with further success, but who the happy individual was who was credited with the goal it was impossible to see from the Press box. An attack by the Sheffielders on Kitchean's change was ended by Bennett shooting wide of the mark, the Blue trying fruitless to lower the United colours. Twenty minutes after the recommencement the Bramell lane team swarmed round the Everton citadel, and after a hot assault Barnes shot into the net for a third time, the home team once more gaining the ascendancy. A corner to the red and whites was safely negotiated, the home team causing the Everton defence no end of trouble to avert disaster, but the home defence prevailed, time eventually arriving with the United Reserves deservedly victorious as follows: - Sheffield United Reserves 3 Everton Reserves 2. Teams: - Sheffield United Reserves: - Kettle, goal; Kent and Simpson, backs; Parker, Brooks, and B. Wilkinson, half-backs; Barnes, Bennett, Rogers, Field, and Hall, forwards. Everton Reserves: - Kitchean, goal; Crelly and Molyneux, backs; Murphy, Gordon, and Dixon, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Oldham, Storey, and Gee, forwards. Referee C.H. Green, Sheffield.

EVERTON 1 PRESTON NORTH END 0
January 2 1900. The Liverpool Courier
The New year from a football point of view was ushered in at Goodison road by a visit from Preston North End. The weather was not by any means inviting, and it was probably not surprising that the usual big crowd, which attended holiday fixture in the old days, was conspicuous by its absence. Still there would be about 10,000 spectators present at half past two o'clock when the game commenced. Everton severe reverse on Saturday at Sheffield no doubt had something to do with the comparatively meagre attendance. The injuries which Boyle sustained in the match with Sheffield prevented his playing and Blythe was called upon to fill his position of centre half. North End was represented by the same players who have done so well during the last two or three weeks. The teams were: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Eccles, and Balmer, backs Wolstenholmes Blythe, and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp (j), Taylor (captain) Proudfoot Settle, and Gray forwards. Preston North End: - McBridge goal, Orrell, and Dunn, backs, Eccleston, McIntyre, and Elliott, halfbacks Atherton, Gars, Stevenson, Peirce, and Henderson, forwards.
Everton commenced operations and following the usual exchanges, the home side took up the attack, the left wing in particular being prominent. There was however, no defeating the visitors defence though on one occasion Settle had a fairly easy chance but shot wide. A rush to the other end found Stevenson at fault and following a further attack, by the North End left wing, the home side were seen to advantage, Gray, however, shooting wide when a capital chance presented itself. Pierce missed a splendid chance of scoring, and then Everton attacked with great determination. A couple of corners fell to them, and several shots were put in which were cleared after which Proudfoot, when only a few yards from goal, sent the ball over the bar. North End them forced their opponents back, and a rattling shot from Stevenson just went over the crossbar. Everton again put on pressure and both Proudfoot and Sharp tested McBridge who saved very smartly. Still the Evertonians were not to be denied, and after fine work on the part of the forwards and halves in which Settle and Proudfoot were conspicuous, the latter defeated McBridge with a grand shot which gave the visiting custodian no chance. Encourged by this success, the home team kept up the pressure, but the visitor's defenders were not to be beaten. Eventually the North End representative got well down without however, troubling Muir, and the game was contested for the most part in midfield. Sharp was running along the wing beautifully when he was brought down by Elliott, and from the free kick Orrell cleared in the nick of time. At the other end, Muir had no difficulty in keeping out a shot from Henderson but for some time the visitors asserted themselves strongly, though they were not very formidable in front of goal. Atherton shot outside, and another period of pressure by Everton was not turned to account. Evan at this period the light was failing and in the biting cold the lot of the spectators was by no means pleasant, Sharp forced a corner off Orrell when nearly brought about the downfall of the Preston goal, and after a temporary incursion into Everton half, another execiting passage of arms occurred between Sharp and Dunn, which ended in a free kick being awarded to Everton. This led to further interesting play in the Preston goalmouth, and finally relief came when Proudfoot shot wide. Then the visitors had a turn, and Atherton shot in only to find Muir quite to the occasion. The game at this period was not very interesting, but with Everton more than holding their own the crowd were quite satisfied. Only occasionally did the visitors cross the half way line and even than their efforts were somewhat feeble. Everton were still attacking when the whistle blow for the interval. Half time Everton 1 goal Preston nil. On resuming in the presence of fully 15,000 spectators. Everton at once assumed the aggressive and Proudfoot when nicely situated shot high over the crossbar. A smart attack by the visitors followed, but the Everton backs were not to be beaten, and Muir was only once called upon to handle. Smart work on the home left wing threatened danger to the Preston goal. Gray however, was not allowed to get in his shot, and the play for some time was devoid of excitement, neither team showing to advantage. Responding to cries of ‘'play up Everton'' the home forwards put on pressure and Taylor had a pop at goal, but his shot was faulty. Muir intercepted an attempt by Henderson and give and take play was the order of the day, Everton however, being the more prominent. After this they kept the North Enders on the defensive for fully ten minutes. Settle was at fault when in a fairly good position, and generally the final efforts of the forwards, were weak. The pace improved and considerable more interest was imparted to the game. North End made desperate efforts to draw level, but there was no getting past the Everton defenders. Then from a free kick the Preston goal had a narrow escape McBride saving well from Proudfoot. Another vigorous onslaught by the visitors kept the home defence busly employed, and Pierce only just missed the mark with a fine attempt. As the end approached both teams put more life into their play, and the excitement was intense. However, nothing more was scored, and the game ended in a victory for Everton by 1 goal to nil.

SHEFFIELD UNITED RESERVES 3 EVERTON RESERVES 2
January 2 1900. The Liverpool Courier
Heavy fog settled on Bramell lane yesterday, and only 1,000 spectators witnessed the start. United opened well. field scoring with a beauty in the first minute. Immediately afterwards Gee outside left, was injured and retired. United continued to have the best of the play. United scored a second gaol after twenty minutes play. The Everton forwards showed pretty combination, and Dawson scored. Half time was called at 35 minutes. Half time United 2 goal Everton 1. Final Result United 3 goals Everton 2.

EVERTON v PRESTON NORTH END
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 02 January 1900
LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
After the dispiriting display against Sheffield United on Saturday, Everton opened the New Year by meeting Preston North End at Goodison Park. Although the weather was damp and depressing, and in spite of the fact that Everton were, so to speak, under a cloud, the spectators rolled up in goodly numbers, and there were fully 15,000 people present before the end of the game. There was only one change in the Everton eleven. Blythe appearing in place of Boyle, who was, unfortunately, injured at Sheffield. The Preston team was the same as that which gained so serviceable a victory on Saturday, and at 2.30 the sides faced as follow;- Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. North End; McBride, goal; Orrell, and Dunn, backs; Eccleston, McIntyre, and Elliott, half-backs; Atherton, Gara, Stevenson, Pierce, and Henderson, forwards. Everton having won the toss, fairly cut out the pace, and several lucky escapes attended the Prestonians. Eventually, Stevenson led his men on, was only a trifle wide with a clever shot. The Everton forwards, however, monopolised the bulk of the play, and with a perfect opening Proudfoot sent over the bar. North End then attacked, and Stevenson, with a splendid shot, just missed the mark. A clever sprint along the wing by Sharp led to a warm attack on the Preston goal, and Taylor headed wide. Returning, the home forwards showed pretty passing, and Settle shot in, but McBride saved. Proudfoot, however, secured, and with a fine effort completely beat McBride, thus registering the first goal. Even play followed for some time, during which Pierce made a good attempt to equalise, and a free kick further endangered the home goal, but Stevenson failed to utilise a nice pass with only Muir to beat. From a corner Atherton sent against the net, thus missing a fine chance of equalising from close quarters, and North End had a spell of pressure, but failed to pierce the defence. Fouls against the visitors enabled Everton to attack, and Sharp forced a corner, from which the ball was put inches outside the upright. The North End halves were showing very questionable methods, and Elliott and Sharp had a very interesting tussle for some seconds. A pretty centre from Gray almost brought further disaster to Preston, and Taylor was dispossessed by Dunn when about to shoot. Everton maintained the advantage to the interval, but there was no further scoring, and their lead at half-time was 1 goal to nil. On restarting, nice passing by the home forwards furnished Proudfoot with a capital opening, but the centre shot widely over the bar. North End improved, and made several incursions into the Everton quarters, but, the shooting was of no avail, and Muir was seldom tested. A long shot from Atherton went outside and racing away to the other end Taylor performed a similar feat. The game was of a very straggling nature, and the attempts to score were weak on both sides. North end eventually made a spurt, but Eccles and Balmer cleared out the invaders, and Proudfoot, getting clear away, was tripped. From the subsequent free kick McBride saved in fine style, and North End again led the attack, Gara shooting wide after a prolonged scrimmage. North End strove desperately to equalise, and their efforts were loudly cheered by the Preston portion of the crowd. They could not score, however, and had to retire beaten. Result;- Everton 1 goal, Preston North end nil. 

LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 02 January 1900
Everton opened the New Year by meeting Preston North End at Goodison park yesterday afternoon. Though the performance of the eleven at Sheffield on Saturday was the reverse to encouraging, there was nevertheless a good attendance at Everton. Perhaps, however, this was mainly due to the appearance here of the Preston North End. The famous Preston club has fallen from its high estate, but they are none the less popular, as everywhere they are warmly welcomed. There was only one change in the Everton ranks from Saturday. Boyle, from his injury having to stand down, his place being filled by Blythe. The visitors were represented by the same team that did duty on Saturday. The weather was damp and depressing, with a suggestion of fog, but there were about 15,000  spectators. Proudfoot started the game against a high breeze, and at the outset Everton set about their work with grim earnestness. By some fine all-round exchanges amongst the home front rank Gray was enabled to get in a couple of splendid centres, but neither was utilised to advantage. North End then created a diversion by a very spirited raid. Muir twice saved cleverly, whilst a further onslaught was repelled by Eccles. A little later, from a beautiful move on the part of Gray and Settle, Taylor headed about a yard wide. Again the Everton front rank aggressed, displaying some excellent combination, Settle finally passing to Gray, who, however, failed with his final shot. The onslaught by Everton was very prolonged, and for some minutes the Preston goal was in great danger. By some fine all-round defence, however, the North End staved off defeat. A moment later the visitors dashed along at a tremendous pace, and Pierce had practically an open goal, but he failed to secure possession of the Everton citadel. Everton reasserted themselves, J. Sharp making one brilliant attempt to lower McBride’s colours, the custodian saving splendidly at the expense of a corner, which was cleared; but led up to a couple of further corners, which were likewise safely negotiated. Everton, however, kept up the pressure with redoubled determination, J. Sharp and Proudfoot each making good though futile attempts to open scoring. At length, however, as a result of further good play, Proudfoot gauged the proper direction with the sphere, and the ball was in the net quite beyond McBride’s power to check its progress; and, aided by a free kick, North End were on the offensive for a few minutes, but the home goal was not seriously pressed, and Everton were quickly again attacking. Play fluctuated somewhat after this, and once when J. Sharp had a glorious opening he was badly foiled by Orrell, but fortunately for Preston, it was just outside the 12-yards line. The subsequent free kick was well cleared, Pierce and Henderson supplementing this with an advancing move; but the latter’s shot was only a moderate one. Atherton making a better though abortive attempt a moment later. Stevenson then attempted to beat Muir, who saved, and then Sharp dashed along the right at a terrific pace, Orrell and Elliott frantically endeavouring to arrest his progress, but, much to the delight of the crowd, the Evertonian got the better of both, and a free kick for fouling into the bargain. From this point to the interval the “blues” had the best of the argument, a couple of good moves on the left resulting in nothing of a tangible nature.
Half-time score; Everton 1 goal, Preston North End nil. 
Stevenson resumed. Proudfoot was the first to essay a shot. McBride saving well. Then North End made a raid, Stevenson’s shot being responded to by Muir, following which Everton made tracks on the left, but Settle was off-side, and permitted the ball to go over the line. Abbott kept his front rank well employed, but the Everton forwards did not avail them themselves of the opportunities presented, and several good openings were allowed to go abegging. Atherton made play on the right for North End, who for a time assailed the Everton stronghold, but there was nothing in their work to create enthusiasm or alarm in the home camp. At the other end Proudfoot made a gallant attempt, McBride just tipping the ball away before it could enter the net. The next ten minutes was most spiritedly contested some excellent work being exhibited on either side, Blythe, Balmer, Eccles and Abbott being very conspicuous in defence on behalf of Everton, North End afterwards attacked with great persistency, but Balmer defended well. No further scoring took place, a well-contested game ending in Everton’s favour by 1 goal to nil. Teams;-
Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs;   Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; J. Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards.
Preston North End;- McBride, goal; Dunn and Orrell, backs; Eccleston, McIntyre, and Elliott, half backs; Atherton, Gara, Stevenson, Pierce, and Henderson, forwards.

SHEFFIELD UNITED RES v EVERTON RES
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 02 January 1900
These teams met yesterday at Bramall Lane, in foggy weather before 1,000 spectators. In the first half Field scored for United, after three minutes’ play. Gee had to leave the field owing to a slight injury. United continued to have the better of the game, and Rodgers scored a second goal. Dawson scored for Everton. Only thirty-five minutes was played. Half-time; United 2 goals Everton 1 goal. Final; United Reserves 3 goals, Everton 2 goals. 

RANGERS V EVERTON
January 4, 1900. Glasgow Herald.
Friendly match played at Ibrox yesterday, before about 7,000 spectators. Teams;-Rangers: - Howden, goal; Mckinlay and Dummond, backs; Dunlop, Neil and Mitchell, half-backs; Campbell, Wilkin, Robertson (Benbuch), Hyslop, and McPherson, forwards, Everton: - Muir, goal; Auld (Carluke Milton) and Mortonm backs; Blyth, Gordon and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Reid (Carluke), McDonald and Gray (Carluke), forwards. Referee Mr. W.M. McLodd. In the first half play was fairly interesting, the visitors scoring twice early in the game, and Hyslop equalising with a couple of well taken goals, before the half-time. Result two goals each. The second half was very stubbornly contested for the first half-hour, when the Rangers seemed to fag considerably, and making advantage of this, Everton forward forced the pace, and McDonald scored after a good run with a very soft ball. Taylor next broke away, and after eluding the Rangers halves and backs, he crossed to Toman, who had no difficulty in beating Howeden close in. Result Everton 4, Rangers 2.

RANGERS V. EVERTON
January 4, 1900. The Courier & Argus
Friendly match. Played yesterday at Ibrox. The teams were practically reserves, and there was little interest in the play. Each side scored a couple of goals in the first half, but in the second half, although the Rangers had the best of the play. Taylor and McDowell each scored for Everton, who won a poor game by 4 goals to 2.

GLASGOW RANGERS 3 EVERTON 4
January 4 1900. The Liverpool Courier
This friendly match was played at Ibrox yesterday in the presence of 8,000 spectators. The Rangers had a scratch team, while Everton played four Lanarkshire juniors in Morton. Auld, McDowell, and Reid, all of the Carluke Milton Rovers. The teams were - Everton: - Muir, goal, Auld, and Morton backs, Blythe, Gordon, and Abbott halfbacks, Taylor (captain), Toman, Rid, McDowell, and Gray, forwards. Rangers: - Holden, goal, McKinlay, and Drummond, backs, Dunlop, Neil, and Mitchell, halfbacks, Campbell, Wilkes, Robertson Hyslop, and McPherson forwards. Referee W.McLeon, Cowlairs.
At the outset the Everton forwards placed a strong pressure on the Rangers goal, Reid, who is a junior internationalist, leading the forwards on in fine style. After five minutes of purely aggressive work, Abbott scored a lovely goal. Everton continued to press hard, the defence of the Rangers being none too good. Good work by Campbell, Neill, and Wilkes raised the siege, but the visitors returned, and Taylor from outside right scored a pretty goal. As a rule, the play was all in favour of Everton, whose careful work was in marked contrast to that of the home eleven. Reid and Taylor nearly brought about the downfall of the Rangers goal. A chance came over the scene when Morton tripped McPherson and from the succeeding foul Hyslop scored a pretty goal. The Rangers marvelously improved and were within an ace of scoring on several occasions. Auld emulated his partner by fouling, and from the foul the English goal had another life. Gray was responsible for the next visit to the Rangers quarters. Here some very clever passing was witnessed between the left and centre. Individually the Rangers were smart enough, but collectively were not on a par with Everton. A soft goal fell to the Rangers, Hyslop shooting slowly and the ball rebounding of Muir's hand into the net. The Rangers looked like scoring again owing to the erract defence of the Liverpool men. Half time Everton 2 goal Rangers 2. In the second half the Rangers had the wind in their favour, and at once placed pressure on the Everton goal. The backs and goalkeeper, however were in fine form, and saved repeatedly. As the game progressed the visitors opened out, and had one or two tries at Holden. The Rangers returned, and Muir saved a couple of fast shots from the left. Everton were now seldom dangerous, but the Rangers could make little use of their advantage, the game being of rough and tumble nature, with little to interest the spectators. McDowell got away on the Everton left, and scored a third goal, thus placing the visitors again in the lead. Play thereafter was hard and exciting, both teams working determinedly for victory, Taylor scored a fourth, and Rangers scored twice, and Everton winning by 4 goals to 3.

EVERTON v  GLASGOW RANGERS
Liverpool Mercury - Thursday 04 January 1900
The above teams met on the new ground of the Rangers at Ibrox Park, Glasgow, before 5,000 spectators. The Everton eleven travelled from Exchange station on Tuesday, being accompanied by Messrs Cuff, and Bainbridge, but the team finally selected was an experimental one, four new players being given a trial. Everton pressed at the commencement, and Gray was given a fine opening by Abbott, but shot wide. The Rangers, who were playing a moderate team, also including two new players and four of the reserve team, were compelled to act on the defensive, and after a series of smart exchanges in front Abbott scored the first goal. Everton continued their aggressive movement, and Abbott shot wide, but a few minutes later Taylor raced down and sent into the net, scoring the second goal after ten minutes’ play.  The Rangers, spurred by this reverse, attacked cleverly, and MacPherson, with a fine opening, shot over the bar, and later the same player sent outside after neat passing. Midfield play followed, and Toman, after clever exchanges on the right wing, kicked wide. From a free kick Hyslop scored the Rangers’ first goal, and, attacking strongly, Wilkie shot outside. Clever play by Gray relieved the pressure, but McKinley smartly cleared, and from Taylor’s centre Gray narrowly missed a third goal. The Rangers then bore down on the right, and from Campbell’s centre Hyslop equalised. Two corners to the Rangers followed, each  of which was unsuccessful, and the interval was reached with the score 2 goals each. After the usual breather, Everton attacked strongly, but Drummond and the custodian cleared grandly. The Rangers retaliated on the left wing, and Muir saved in clever fashion from Hyslop. After even play Everton came down smartly on the right, and Taylor crossing to the opposite wing, enabled the inside player to score an easy goal, placing Everton again ahead. The Rangers strove hard to equalise, but Muir and the backs defended splendidly, and Wilkie was afforded a capital chance of making the scores again equal. After several smart attacks by the Rangers, Everton raised the siege, and neat passing on the left wing placed Taylor in a splendid position, and the Everton skipper, with a fine shot, scored the fourth goal. After a prolonged attack by the Rangers a penalty was awarded, but Muir saved in fine style. Nothing further was scored, and Everton won by 4 goals to 3.

EVERTON v  GLASGOW RANGERS
Liverpool Daily Post – Thursday 04 January 1900
As a New Year’s holiday, the Everton team travelled to Glasgow on Tuesday in order to play a friendly game with the famous Glasgow Rangers, who have just been installed in a magnificent new ground at Ibrox Park. The weather yesterday was cold and cheerless lying showers passing over the city during the morning. The outlook cleared at noon, however, and there was a large holiday crowd present when the teams turned out. Both elevens were of an experimental character, Everton trying four new players, while the Rangers also out two recruits in the field. The game, therefore, was in   more than one respect a trial one. The  Rangers started and Everton at once made progress on the left, Gray getting down nicely, but he was finally checked, and for a time play was contested in midfield. Then Abbott got possession, and racing through, he sent in a low shot that completely beat the home custodian. After this Everton continued to have the best of the play, the new combination of forwards working remarkably well together. A breakaway on the part of the Rangers’ right was cleverly stopped by Blythe and then Taylor getting hold ran along the wing and sent in a lovely oblique shot, which passed Howden and scored. This second success on the part of Everton stirred their opponents somewhat, and for a time the visitors’ defence was given plenty of work, the sustained attack ending in Macpherson shooting rather wide. Blythe served up nicely, but Toman was robbed, and the Rangers left again made ground, McPherson once more shooting wide of the mark. The game now opened out somewhat, and both goals were visited in turn. The Rangers’ forwards showed great cleverness and dash, but their shooting was lamentably weak. Still, they kept up the pressure, And it was only by the watchfulness and vigilance of Abbott, who was playing a sterling game, that disaster was several times averted. The next item of interest was a breakaway on the Everton left, but nothing came of it; and then the Rangers got smartly down on the right, Hyslop scoring from a free kick. After this the home eleven pressed strongly, but the Everton defence was sound. Abbott distinguishing himself. The Rangers, however, kept pegging away and Muir saved a warm one from McPherson. A free kick to the homesters close in gave them a nice opening, but Taylor, after a hot bully in front of goal, cleared nicely. The Everton captain was next conspicuous by forcing a corner off Drummond, which came to nothing. The game at this juncture was of a somewhat scrambling character, though there were occasional flashes of brilliant work on both sides. From a centre by Taylor, Gray sent the ball with terrible force towards the goal, but Drummond intercepted it, and then the Rangers’ forwards moved down the field in splendid fashion, a movement of clocklike accuracy ending in Hyslop scoring a second goal, and thus putting the teams upon equal terms. After this the Rangers played up finely, Wilkie missing the goal by a few inches only. Half-time when arrived, with the score at 2 goals each. In the second half the Rangers went away with great dash, but the Everton defence was thoroughly sound. The Everton right wing then got off, and the inside man scored a somewhat lucky goal. Again Everton pressed, and Taylor with a fine effort added a fourth point, the game ending in favour of the visitors by 4 goals to 2.

RANGERS v EVERTON
North British Daily Mail – Thursday 04 January 1900
On Ibrox, in wind and rain, Everton appeared with a fair eleven, and the Rangers were not up to strength, only four regular players lining up. The home team kicked off with the wind across field, and showed poor form. Abbott scored in the first ten minutes. A little later a long attack ended in Taylor adding a second. Play was easy and holidayish in character, kicks being missed to an astonishing extent. McDonald and Taylor were combining cleverly and baffling Drummond on the right wing had the Everton shooting been better the Rangers would have been more goals down, for their forwards could make nothing of the ball, and the strangers were continually within shooting distance. A change came when Hyslop improving a free kick beat Muir with a high shot. The goal gained cheered up the Ibrox play and their movements became less erratic. Morton and Abbott, however kept a tight hold on the right wing and Campbell made nothing of several openings. Crawford cleared cleverly from Gray and through Neil and Hyslop a fruitless corner was forced. McDonald returned and sent past. A good sprint between Taylor and Drummond, in which the Rangers was out distanced almost brought a goal, the ball bobbing about till McKinlay got his head on it. After Campbell had tried Muir with a fast ball. Hyslop caught up and equalised. A couple of corners occurred without result. The Rangers were then doing all the pressing. Half-time came with teams level -two goals each. Play restarted at the Rangers end, but through a mistake of Auld’s operations were transferred to the Everton end, where the Rangers lingered. For 10 minutes the pressed, and Campbell sent in a magnificent low shot which Muir held with difficulty. Everton by long open passes reached Howden, and gained a corner; Neill cleared after some fumbling. Taylor shot and Drummond was cheered for a saving kick. The Rangers backs being slow in clearing, Gray ran in and shot McDonald kicking a weak return by Howden into goal. The point was a rather soft one. Hyslop tried with a long ball to draw level but Auld cleared. The Rangers were slow in a grave want of force in their passes, allowing the English backs to break up their combination badly. Towards the end they improved and worked hard for a score. Howden effected a good save with McDonald and Toman on top of him. Hyslop, at the other end, gave Muir a hard one to hold from long range. Unaccountably McDonald and Toman trotted through the Rangers’ defence, and taking plenty of time they banged in a fourth goal. A chance to retrieve matters came to Neill by way of a penalty kick. The ball went in at a bad angle and fairly low, but Howden effected a grand save. This is the first penalty of the season. Neill has failed to score. Time came with Everton leading by four goals to two. Teams;- Rangers.- Howden; McKinlay, and Drummond; Dunlop, Neill, and Mitchell; Wilkie, and Campbell; Robertson, Hyslop, and McPherson. Everton.- Muir; Auld and Morton; Blythe, Gordon, and Abbott; Taylor, and Toman; Reid; McDonald, and Gray. Referee- Mr. McLeod.

EVERTON v  NEWCASTLE UNITED
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, January 6 1900
LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
SETTTLE SCORES FOR EVERTON AFTER FOUR MINUTES
PEDDIE EQUALISES AND PROUNDFOOT GIVES EVERTON THE LEAD
PROUNDFOOT SCORES FOR EVERTON AND FRASER FOR UNITED
What would otherwise have proved a most interesting struggle, and attracted a gate of more than average proportions at Goodison Park, this afternoon, was entirely spoiled by the diabolical weather which prevailed. The visit of Newcastle United has been looked forward to for some time with keen interest, but if the crowd to greet them was much smaller than would have been the case under more favourable climatic conditions, the enthusiasm was none the less. Rain, snow, and sleet fell during the morning, which accompanied by a piercing cold wind, rendered matters most uncomfortable for players and spectators alike. Concerning the teams, Everton relied upon the identical eleven which performed against Preston North End; while the United were strongly represented. The sides faced as follows;- Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles, Right back, Balmer, Left back; Wolstenholme, Blythe, Abbott, half-backs, J. Sharp, Taylor, left wing, Proudfoot, Settle, Gray, left wing. Newcastle United;- Kingsley, goal; Birnie, Right back, Gardiner, Left back; Aitken, Aitken, Higgins, Carr, half-backs; Stevenson, Rodgers, Right wing, Peddie, McFarlance, Fraser, left wing.
When the teams appeared there was a” beggarly array of empty benches” surrounding the enclosure, the spectators numbering not more than 3,000. Everton won the toss, Peddie starting operations. The opening stages were contested in midfield, and it early on became evident that the players would experience much difficulty in maintaining a foot hold, the ground in some places being treacherous in the extreme. For once in a way, however, Everton seemed to take in the adverse situation, and twice in succession they swooped down upon Kingsley’s goal, Taylor putting in a good shot, Gray forcing a corner and Abbott tried to lower the visitors’ citadel. A free kick was well taken by Balmer, Settle securing possession and shooting straight for goal, Kingsley misjudging the greasy ball, which passed into the net, this success coming five minutes after the start. A breakaway by Newcastle followed, Rodgers enabling Peddie to have an abortive shie, he visiting left, however, went away in grand style, Rogers crossing the ball beautifully to Peddie, who headed past Muir.
THE equalising point coming within a couple of minutes of Everton’s goal. A little after Balmer was hard pressed, but he stuck gamely to his opponent and in the end cleared his lines in fine style. Although the ground was in such a wretched condition, the game was a fairly good one. Entertainment ran high as Blythe sent the ball flying down the field with Proudfoot in hot pursuit. The home centre succeeded in securing possession, and, with a really magnificent shot, he again placed Everton ahead Kingsley having no possible chance of saving.

EVERTON 3 NEWCASTLE UNITED 2
January 8 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The weather on Saturday was altogether against the pursuit of outdoor pastime and an attendance of about 6,000 spectators at Goodison Park must under the conditions that prevailed, be considered satisfactory. The injury to Boyle at Sheffield on the previous Saturday made an opening for Blythe, but otherwise the teams was unaltered and at 2-30 the sides faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Eccles, and Balmer, backs, Wolstenholmes, Blythe, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor (captain), Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray forwards. Newcastle United: - Kingsley, goal, Birnie, and Gardner backs Aiktens, Higgins, and Carr halfbacks, Rogers Stevenson, Peddie, McFarlane, and Fraser, forwards. The United commenced operations, but were ill at ease on the heavy ground which apparently suited the Everton forwards Taylor sent in a splendid shot which just skimmed the bar, and following a corner taken by Gray the United goal had a narrow escape. A free kick against the visitors was splendidly placed by Balmer, and the final touch was given to the ball by Settle, who thus opened the scoring five minuets after the start. On getting to work again the United left gave trouble and eventually a smart centre from Fraser was excellent judged by Peddie who headed past Muir, thus equalising. Play in spite of the heavy ground, was of the fast order and a dashing run by Proudfoot between the United backs resulted in the centre defeating Kingsley with a fast rising shot within a few minutes Fraser was afforded an opportunity of again equalising put shot feebly over the bar, and for some little time the home forwards were seen to great advantage, Sharp on one occasion sending in a terrific shot which unfortunately went a trifle wind. At the other end of the line Gray and Settle were putting in plenty of good work, but could not get in a parting shot, and following after opening this time for Peddie. Proudfoot was again conspicuous, the last named player sending in an excellent shot, which completely defeated Kingsley. Balmer placed A few minutes later the visiting custodian was almost defeated from a free kick. Towards the interval Fraser was brought down by Eccles within the twelve yards line and on appeal the referee granted a penalty kick , from which Fraser scored. Nothing further was scored upto the interval. When the score stood, Everton 3 goals Newcastle United 2. On play being resumed Everton attacked with vigour but found the opposing defenders in a stubborn mood. The referee then stopped the game in order to remonstrate with a section of the crowd, and on play proceeding Proudfoot finishing up a capital movement with a shot that brought about a corner kick. This was cleared and following up the ball Peddie had none other than Muir to defeat, but shot outside-a feat he repeated shortly afterwards with another goal. The Novocastriads were now having the great share of the play, but the final efforts of the forwards were invariably weak pulling themselves together again, the Everton vanguard put in several fine touches of play, Settle on two occasions causing Kingsley to handle difficult shots which Sharp missed a rather easy opening. Gray who just missed scoring, and up to the close the home side maintained the advantage but could not increase their lead. Everton winning by 3 goals to 2.

EVERTON REVIEW
January 8 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The conditions under which Everton decided their return fixture with Newcastle United were absolutely the wore experienced since the opening of the season, and those spectators who braved the elements fully deserved composition for their temority in wading through the down pour of sleet which descended throughout the day without cessation. It was an unfortunate occurrence for the Everton club, for under ordinary circumstances there would no doubt have been a large crowd present, and the tose in gate money must have been considerable. Never was the splendid accommodation at Goodison Park more appreciated, and it was a tremendous strain on the players to battle for ninety minutes in a ding dong struggle for supremacy on such a day. That the Everton team not only won-and that deservedly-but that they went strongly to the finish is a fitting tribute to the men, and to those who have had the task of bringing them to such a creditable condition of training. But the most refreshing feature of the afternoon's display was the successful manner in which the Everton players adapted themselves to the prevailing state of affairs, and instead of indulging abundant finessing with a feeble shot when in close quarters, which has been their customary procedure they adapted long swinging passes from wing to wing, interspersed with rousing rushes, and a rare good shot to wind up with. Indeed, the determination shooting of the home forwards was one of the most prominent features of a hard fought game the ball being banged in from all sides without ceremony. Useless dallying was entirely dispeused with, and all along the line the idea prevalent was to test Kingsley at every possible opportunity. The result was highly gratifying, not only to the handful of spectators, but also in its results, as far as the collection of League points is concerned, and nothing but downright sterling custodianship by the Novocatrism goalkeeper prevented a more decisive verdict being gained. The question naturally arises, Why can't tactic of the native be more often attempted instead on isolated occasions only. Everton's weakness throughout the season has been a woeful distclimation to tax an opposing custodian, their play in front of goal being utterly incompetent in comparison with their midfield work. The performance against Newcastle came therefore as a delightful revelation and like Oliver Twist the cry is for more. More of the same shooting more of the same headlong tracks for goal, and more success, which the position of the club distinctly demands are certain to accrue. Proudfoot was in a happy mood and the amount of work he got through was astonishing being even ready to furnish an opening to his extreme men and always on the alert to pounce on the centre and dash into goal. His display was a capital one, and another great success was Sharp, who simply trotted round Garner with consummates. His shooting was more determined that usual, and with the exception of one easy chance, after Kingsley had saved full length from Settle which he drove outside the upright when a judicious tap would have placed the ball in the net there was fault to be found with his exhibition. The remainder of the line only suffered in comparison, and whereas all did well the players particularized went slightly beyond their confreres in efficiency. The halfbacks division was also in fine trim, and rendered able assistance to the front line. Abbott fairly revailed in the heavy going, and the ex-Small Heath player required some dispossessing when on the ball. He is certainly demonstrating his right to a permanent position in the team. Blythe filled the centre position with credit, and further behind Balmer kicked splendidly despite the heavy greasy conditions of the ball. Eccles however was not a success, and found in Fraser so opponents not only too speedy, but too skilful likewise, and the quandam Notts County winger made tracks round the old Wolf. The visitors proved a capable side, and possess a strong forward line. Peddie showed a splendid game at centre, but on two occasions raced through t6he home defence, and with only Muir to beat, sent wide on each occasion, thus discountenancing somewhat his otherwise clever exhibition. The best of the five was Fraser, who centred and dribbled with accuracy and he had a capable partner in McFarlane. The halves were a smart trio, but Gariner at full back was easily beaten by the home right wing. Kingsley however kept a splendid goal, and though he was severely tested he came out of the ordeal with credit, two of his saves in the last ten minutes being particularly good. The two points which then follow as a result of this victory, place Everton to a healthy position in the table, and with their tenure in the League practically secure it would be a compensation for many disappointments did the club determine to make amends in the English Cup Competition.

A CLOSE GAME AT EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 08 January 1900
By Harricus
I have visited Goodison Park in many capacities and under many conditions. I once endeavoured to display my skill as a player on the “green sward,” I have been there as an official, have seen my country’s chosen eleven trounce the enemy there, it was the ground on which the club I was secretary for met its fate in the semi-final for the English Cup, worse still, I was a disappointed spectator to the complete overthrow of the self-same club in the final stage for the Cup, when the game was almost counted as won before it started, but never have the conditions been so depressing as was the case on Saturday. When I arrive on the ground, fifteen minutes before the time of kick-off, there seemed to be only the band in attendance, but the welcome of the courteous Mr. Crawshaw, unruffled by thoughts of a failure so far as the “gate” was concerned, was none the less cordial. I am afraid though, that the music would not pass into the minds of the waiting people with a very cheerful influence, but thanks to the splendid, covered accommodation provided by the Everton club the spectators kept rolling up in fair numbers with the knowledge that they would be under shelter. Referee Adams had inspected the ground an hour before the kick-off, and decided to proceed with the game, which was played out to a finish. The opponents of Everton were Newcastle United, whose path has not been of the smoothest lately, and were therefore expected to supply the full quota of points for the boys in blue, despite the thrashing they received at Sheffield the previous week. And so it turned out, though the winners had nothing to spare. The Everton executive seem inclined to settle on one team, but owing to Boyle’s injury at Sheffield Blyth was drafted into the eleven, and the Newcastle forwards appear to have been re-modelled on the old lines. The players who participated in the game were;-
Everton;- Muir, goal; Eccles, and Balmer, backs; Wolstenhomes, Blyth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Newcastle United.- Kingsley, goal; Birnie and Gardner, backs; Aitken, Higgins, and Carr, half-backs; Rogers, Stevenson, Peddle, McFarlane, and Fraser, forwards. The opening was rather sensational, for inside
TEN MINUTES THREE GOALS
Had been notched, which was evidence that despite the incessant downpour the players meant business. The game had been in progress exactly four and a half minutes when the first point was secured, Settle, who was standing as near off-side as he possibly could be, sending in a shot which Kingsley allowed to pass between his legs. Two minutes later a centre from Fraser was headed through by Peddie quite unexpected like, so that the teams were “as you were” again. No.3 on the list fell to Everton, but like the first point, it might have been prevented. Proudfoot rushed the backs, who were not too smart at their business in this particular instance, but even then Kingsley might have made a race of it with the Everton centre forward for possession of the ball, but by stopping in his goal he gave Proudfoot the opportunity to steady himself, and he made no mistake. Just on quarter time the ex-Rover again smartly wriggled his way through a bunch of players, and as the result he made the score 3-1 in favour of his side. We had not finished with the scoring, for eight minutes from the interval Wolstenholme seemed to do something he ought not to have done in the official’s mind, for a penalty kick was given, from which Fraser, the man who was fouled, reduced Everton’s lead with a well-judged kick. The incident occurred a long way from the Press-box, and I am not going to sit in judgement on the referee, but I must confess that there did not seem anything to warrant a penalty. This is, of course, a matter of opinion, and a referee would be weak minded if he failed to give his decisions according to his opinion, no matter what may be the attitude of the crowd. The said crowd did not, by the way, fail to give vent to their opinions, and their conduct towards the referee was most objectionable, so much so, in fact, that shortly after the cross over be.
JUMPED THE BOARDS
And had a few words with one man. There is, perhaps, much ton be said against this latter day autocracy of ejecting obnoxious spectators, though in the particularly case under notice Mr. Adams did not adopt this extreme course, but still, it must be extremely annoying to a referee who makes one apparent mistake to be harassed by a lot of ignorant partisans, who only watch a match for the sole purpose of seeing their side win, and who stop away when the club is down on its luck- for the rest of the game. It is the sort of conduct which will drive self-respecting referees into giving up the whistle. Proudfoot did his best to work the crowd into a better mood with a fine attempt to score, but Kingsley was equal to the occasion. After this the Newcastle centre forward rushed away to the other end, but finished very badly, and just later.
PEDDIE WAS AGAIN AT FAULT
For after executing capital work in getting the ball into position, he made a complete hash of it when he had only Muir to beat. Such failures as these are enough to take the heart out of a team on opposing territory, but I must say that the Novocastrians kept up very well, and the result was always in doubt. They were, however, very weak in front as compared with their opponents, and this is where they lost their chances of equalising, for the end came with Everton winners by three goals to two. The game was played in a continual downpour of rain, real, genuine rain, which, if anything, came down worse as the game proceeded, and under the conditions which existed there would have been some excuse had the players not gone about their work whole-hearted. Both sides, however, strove hard for the points, and we were treated to a very decent show of football. Everton deserved their victory, but by no bigger margin, Newcastle’s weakness being in their finishing touches, and I expect Peddie would receive his blessing when he reached home. Both sides logged towards the finish, and no wonder. In the shooting department Jack Sharp was very useful, and seemed to stand on his feet better than most of the players. Abbott, too, struck me as being a very useful sort of half-back, particularly when any bustling is required, but I will not go into a criticism of the players, for it would hardly be fair to some of them.

EVERTON v  NEWCASTLE UNITED
Liverpool Daily Post – Monday 08 January 1900
What would otherwise have proved a most interesting struggle, and attracted a gate of more than average proportions at Goodison Park, was entirely spoiled by the weather. Rain, snow, and sleet fell during the morning, which accompanied by a piercing cold win, rendered matters most uncomfortable for players and spectators, of whom there were about 5,000, alike. Everton won the toss, Peddie starting operations. The opening stages were contested in midfield, and it early on became evident that the players would experience much difficulties in maintaining a foot hold, the ground in some places being treacherous in the extreme. For once in a way however, Everton seemed to take in thesevere situation, and twice in succession they swooped down upon Kingsley’s goal Taylor pitting in a good shot, Gray forcing a corner, and Abbott tried to lower the visitors’ citadel. A free kick was well taken by Balmer, Settle securing possession and shooting straight for goal, Kingsley misjudging the greasy ball, which passed into the net, this success coming five minutes after the start. A breakaway by Newcastle followed, Rogers enabling Peddie to have an abortive shie. The visiting left, however, went away it, grand style. Rogers crossing the ball beautifully to Peddie, who headed pass Muir, and equalising point coming within a couple of minutes of Everton’s goal. Considering the ground was in such a wretched condition the game was a fairly good one. Proudfoot succeeded in securing possession and with a really magnificent shot, he again placed Everton ahead, Kingsley having no possible chance of saving. Peddie missed a good chance. A smart run by Sharp was the order of Everton forcing a corner, but this proved abortive. Everton, however, returned to the attack with reproved determination and after some excellent exchanges amongst the home quintet, Proudfoot shot faultlessly and secured the third goal for Everton. For some time after this the home side kept up a hot attack on the Newcastle’s goal, the Blues disputing more, more than their customary dash on the heavy turf. The Newcastle left raced away, Wolstenholme fouling Fraser within the twelve yards line, and offensive which the referee granted a penalty kick. Fraser was entrusted with this shot, and gave Muir no possible chance. Everton were by no means disheartened by this unfortunate  circumstances and right to the conception they rushed away and Sharp making another abortive attempt a moment later just before the interval Sharp and Proudfoot performed very prettily without result. Half-time arrived Everton 3 goals Newcastle United 2 goals. Proudfoot resumed hostilities. The game was suspended for a few seconds until the referee Mr. Adams leaped the barrier to demonstrate with a section of the crowd who persisted in jeering him evidently on account of his granting the penalty kick against Everton. After a prolonged attack by Everton Settle got possession and passed to Proudfoot, Kingsley saving grandly. Soon afterwards Newcastle put on some pressure but Peddie with an open goal failed lamented in his final shot. The ratio throughout had fallen while the ground in many places became worse than ever, and against accurate passing, Everton however, continued to hold their opponents well in hand, though many good moves were entirely spoiled by the adversecircumstances which prevailed. A corner was forced by Everton but this was cleared, and midfield play then for a time. After this Peddie was given possession and he ran the ball to within only a couple of yards from the goal, only to shoot wide when a goal seemed certain. Sharp was next conspicuous with a hot low shot, which Kingsley only just cleared. Everton continued to attack strongly and good shots by Settle and Proudfoot were sent in but Kingsley was equal to both shots. From this point to the end, the game was fairly even, but nothing further was scored. Final; Everton 3 goals, Newcastle United 2 goals. Teams;- Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; J. Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Newcastle United;- Kingsley, goal; Birnie and Gardner, backs; Aitken, Higgins, and Carr, half-backs; Rogers, Stevenson, Peddle, McFarlane, and Fraser, forwards.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 08 January 1900
By The Loiterer
I understand Everton tried some new men in the tour at  Glasgow Rangers, and that they were successful in obtaining the signature of a centre forward of promise in Reid, a junior International. The club have three good men in toman, Oldham, and Proudfoot, the latter at present playing a fine game, and I know one First Division club who would like Oldham. Toman has gone off in the estimation of the public, and the directors, too, or else such an expensive player would not be wasting his time with the reserve team. It will thus be seen that the Everton Club have a fair quantity at hand if the quality is not up to the mark.

TOMORROW FOOTBALL
Liverpool Echo - Friday 12 January 1900
EVERTON  v ASTON VILLA
The league team journey to Birmingham to-morrow to play the return match with the Villa at Aston Lower grounds, where they will no doubt do their utmost to gain an advantage as compared with last season. Although Boyle will not be fit to take his place owing to his accident at Sheffield on the 30thDecember, it is fortunate the club have such a useful reserve in Blythe to fall luck upon. The following team has been selected to represent Everton; -Goal, Muir; backs Eccles and Balmer; half-backs, Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott; forwards, Sharp,  Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray. Train leaves Lime-street Station at 10.5; kick-off 2-45.
EVERTON v  SKERTON
For the match, which is down for decision at Goodison Park, tomorrow, in the Lancashire Combination, the directors will have several new players on trial, viz., Chambers (centre half) and Thompson (right half) from Milton Rangers. Team; P. McWilliam (left back) and J. Conway (inside right) from  Airdrie St. Margarets; J. Burke (outside left), and A. Murray (outside right) from Holytown Thistle. Kick-off 2.45. the following is the team;- Goal, Kitchen; backs, Crelley, and McWilliams; half-backs; Thompson, Chambers, and Gordon; forwards, Murray, Conway, Oldham, Dawson, and Burke.
Identical correspondent in Daily Post

ASTON VILLA v  EVERTON
Sports Argus – Saturday 13 January 1900
A HARD GAME
EVERTON GIVE THE VILLA FRIGHT
By “Argus, Jun”
The return League match between these clubs was played at Aston, to-day, the first encounter between the pair, at Goodison Park, in the opening month of the season, you may remember, ending in a very creditable win for the Villa by 2 goals to 1. For the second meeting neither side were able to put their full strength on, for whilst Evans and Devey were the most noticeable absentees from the Villa ranks-Bowman was again relegated to the second team-the visitors had not do without Boyle, one of their best man, who was injured in the Sheffield United match recently. The teams, however, were strong combinations, and the players were;- Aston Villa; George; Spencer, Crabtree;  Noon, Cowan, Wilkes; Athersmith, Johnson, Garratty, Wheldon, Smith. Everton.- Muir; Eccles, Balmer; Wolstenholme, Blythe, Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, Gray. Referee; Mr. A.J. Barker, Hanley. The officials had done their best to get the ground into good condition, but it did not look tip-top for football. The weather was fine enough, but dull; and the dullness probably accounted for the fact that there were not more than 15,000 spectators present at the start. This number was considerably increased during the afternoon. The Villa, winning the toss, kicked towards the Great Hall. Both goals were threatened in turn in the first few minutes, the visitors being particularly active. Their left wing almost got in, but were foiled through the smartness of Spencer. Then Sharp who had a great reception from the spectators, became conspicuous for some smart work on the right, as a result of which Everton gained a fruitless corner. Away went the Villa to the other end, where Blythe had to use all his energies to dispossesses Johnson and Garratty. Wheldon received a round of applause for brilliant dribbling, deprived of its effect by the vigilance of Eccles, who rushed in and took the ball from Garratty. Smith, obtaining possession near the half-way line, made a gallant spurt along his wing, and, beating Eccles, centred to Garratty, who skied high over the bar. The next moment Athersmith was seen careering up the right, but he dallied too long, and at last was so pressed that he shot wide. Everton retaliated with a good attack, which finished by Taylor shooting hard and straight into the Villa goal, beating George, and scoring the first goal for his side after nine minutes’ play. Racing away from the centre-kick, the Villa obtained a corner, which enabled Cowan to send in a promising shot, only just wide of its mark. It was a near thing, and many of the spectators thought the equalising goal had been scored. The Everton half-backs, playing strongly, nipped in the bud one or two attacks by the Aston Villa front line; but at last the Villa got near enough to make things warm for the opposing defence. An exciting scrimmage took place in front of Muir, ending eventually by Balmer, whose defence was proving very vigorous just now. Grand passing by the Everton forwards took the ball into unpleasant proximity to George. From foot to foot it went, and a point seemed more than probable, when Spencer rushed across the mouth of goal, took the ball from the opposing forwards, and sent it far up the field- a splendid bit of work, which was greeted with the cheering it deserved! A free kick to the Villa close in the Everton goal looked dangerous for the Blues, but the energetic backs again came to the rescue and the Villa were foiled. Off went the visitors to the other end; there was another exciting time right in front of the Villa posts, and it was only a smart bit of work by Crabtree which not only cleared his lines, but which enabled his forwards to race away and call upon Muir to punch the ball away. A corner to the Villa came to nothing, and after some even play in midfield the home side attacked, and would have scored but for the slackness of the forwards in front of goal. Cowan made a pass to his forwards, which however, was rather too far for them to turn to advantage, and Eccles returning the ball down the field the Blue forwards made a determined onslaught on the Villa goal. It was saved by another grand bit of football from Spencer. A moment later the Villa back was again cheered for cleverly stopping the Everton left wingers. Then Gray managed to shoot into goal, but Crabtree headed out, and the Villa enjoyed a short innings. Once they were repelled but came again in dashing style, and having passed the backs, appeared to have the goal at their mercy. Johnson’s final shot, however, brilliant as it was, proved a shade too high, and sailed over the bar instead of into the net. Gray, Settle, and Proudfoot, by clever combination, worked their way down into the home quarters where Spencer once more was the salvation of his side. Still Everton pressed and this time George was called upon to fist out a shot from Gray. The Everton forwards were now playing in magnificent style. How the Villa goal escaped downfall on one occasion it is impossible to say. Sharp banged in a beautiful centre, which Gray met with his head. George touched the ball away, it was returned, but somehow the defenders got it away, and when  half-time came the score was still; 
Everton 1 Villa 0
On the restart Everton were the first to become dangerous. Sharp put in a grand shot, which George by jumping up, just managed to fist out. Gray returned a yard too far, and the ball went easily out. The Villa retaliated with a couple of fine attacks, and quite strong enough nevertheless, to bear down the Everton defence. The ball continued in the vicinity of Muir, but Wheldon, after a tricky run, relieved the pressure by shooting weakly outside. After another onslaught by Everton, resisted gallantly by Spencer and Crabtree, the home forwards went away in a line and Wheldon again signalised himself by shooting over the bar. Sharp, seizing upon the ball, gave it to Taylor, who penetrated the Villa defence with a brilliant run. The ball was shot into goal, and the Blue forwards swarmed round George, who, however, rushed into their midst, and kicked the ball away- a fine save! Wheldon followed this up with a run down the left. They encountered Blythe and he came victorious from the struggle. His forwards made the most of the opportunity he gave them as a consequence y giving the Villa defence another period of anxiety. Happily for the home side the final shot was too high, so that George was not called upon. Smith next distinguished himself on the left, forcing a corner, which proved useless. Proudfoot was making the best of the way into the Villa territory when he was “grassed” by Cowan. He appeared against the charge, but the referee did not listen to his complaint. Soon after he had a practical revenge for a grand shot from his foot called upon George for the display of his best abilities. The Villa keeper proved equal to the demand, and had the satisfaction of seeing his forwards go rapidly to the other end fortune delivered upon them. However their onslaught being fruitless. A throw-in neat goal enabled Gray to centre and Spencer was obliged to concede a corner. The visitors made nothing of it and the Villa tried again to get past Muir. Very fully they realised the arranged of the defence with which they had to contend. The backs were hard to pass, and the Villa could not conquer them. More than one good try they made. One prolonged scrimmage occurred in the mouth of the Everton goal. The ball was headed in and out again, the ball just in time to score a good goal. This equalising point was greeted with tremendous cheering, and revived the drooping spirits of the Villa supporters in wonderful manner. A corner to the visitors, well taken by Gray and landing to warn times near George quietened their shouts, which arose again as Wolstenholme shot over the bar. A good try by Smith was followed by a better from Athersmith, the ball going only a bit too high. Smith became prominent once more, but found Eccles too much for him. The Villa being awarded a free kick, more excitement followed as the ball bobbed from head to head in Everton’s quarters. The Blues came out victories, and went for George, but Crabtree intervened. As the end approached the Villa made gallant efforts to gain the advantage, and once they came near their object, the ball being sent not much too high. When the whistle blew, however, the score remained- Aston Villa 1 Everton 1.
COMMENTS ON THE GAME
What is coming over the Villa “gates”? The attendance this afternoon was not what it ought to have been, considering the attractive power of Everton. There was nothing to find fault with in the weather, for it was an exceptionally fine afternoon for the time of the year. The days of 25,000 crowds seem to have departed. To-day ought to have produced one well beyond that figure. The abominable weather we have experienced of late had its natural effect upon the turf. It was on the soft and dead side, but the Villa directors did the best they could make the ground fit, and they had it covered with a few cartloads of sand from Rhyl sea-shore. There wasn’t much green grass to be seen, of course, and the general appearance of the playing space was not perhaps according to the Villa’s usual standard, but that was a minor detail so long as the men could operate properly. There was a little slipping at times and the turf cut up badly in places as the game progressed, but only those who expect bowling-green surfaces in January could cavil at the conditions under  which the men had to work. The Villa are apparently big on the matter of changing the colours of their goal-posts. To-day we found them barred in an inartistic, virulent blue and chocolate. The “sticks” indeed wore quite a harlequin appearance. The game as perhaps not of a particularly “classy” or finished character, but it was always interesting. There was a good lot of indiscriminate kicking of the ball at times, however, and big sinners in this respect were the Villa -bigger than their opponents. Though the Villa managed to win at Goodison Park, they found their opponents a big handful this afternoon. For a good long time after starting, the visitors certainly had the best of matters, and when they managed to score cleverly against the wind, there was no doubt about the effectiveness of the Everton play. The Everton men showed better combination, and there was more cohesion between the respective lines. Moreover, they showed more quickness and vigour in their general movements. Sharp, who, by the way, was accorded a very cordial reception when he came on to the field, played a good game, and though Taylor, perhaps, did not make him a particularly strong partner-though the inside right man himself did well “on his own” -yet Proudfoot gave him some good openings. The Everton centre was a rare, good worker- always on the ball, and keeping both eyes open to make the most of opportunities. Settle and Gray were a smart left pair, even though they found Spencer far too much for them at times. In the defence, the visitors were also very clever. Their half-backs, of whom Abbott, the old Small heath man was very prominent, fairly worried the Villa forwards and their own front line most persistent whilst Balmer and Eccles behind, were strong in their tackling and were very alert when things were lively in front of their goal. Muir, however, was rather shaky on two or three occasions and he did not clear with the same precision and power that George did. The Villa gave a disappointing exhibition. Without a doubt they were not allowed much rope by their opponents, but at the same time there was a lot of the finicking business indulged in, and for a goodly portion of the game there only seemed to be three man playing-George, Spencer, and Cowan. These three, in fact, may just about be said to have played the whole Everton side themselves in the first half. George saved some teasing shots. Spencer was in tip-top form. His tackling was perfection, his placing of the ball equally so and his long volleying was great. Cowan too, was in ripping form. He showed beautiful half-back work from start to finish and had Noon and Wilkes given him the assistance they ought to have done the Everton forwards might have been held more in check than they were. But the two side men were weak. Each tacked well now and again, but it was more the exception than the rule that they did anything right. It was the glaring weakness in this department which accounted for much with the Villa. Crabtree was by no means the Crabtree of old. He was good at times, but never brilliant. He was beautifully tricked by Proudfoot on one or two occasions. The forwards were a long way below the mark. Their form was quite mediocre in the first half, and though they improved at times after change of ends, yet their general work was decidedly disappointing. Athersmith and Smith were the only ones deserving of notice. Both of them were far more effective against the wind than with it, and each man put in some rattling runs and centres. But the other three men could not put on the finishing touches. The passing was not only badly timed on occasion, but it was often much too square. And, moreover, there was an indulgence in the glaring fault of holding on to the ball too long. The Villa men could surely not complain about a lack of chances! It was a mighty relief indeedto the crowd when, through the instrumentality of Athersmith and Smith, the Villa drew level in the closing stages of the game. Though the Villa had the best of the exchanges throughout the second half, yet their attacks were pulled up time after time by a capital defence. It was a relief to the Villa I am sure, when the whistle went, for the visitors made sudden rushs right up to the finish that might easily have ended disastrously to the home side.

ASTON VILLA 1 EVERTON 1
January 15 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The return engagement between these clubs took placed at Villa Park on Saturday, where there was a crowd of some 16,000 spectators. The Everton team was under the sole charge of Mr.Molyneux, and was represented by exactly the same eleven that defeated Newcastle United on the previous Saturday. Devey and Evans were absentees on the side of the Villa, and at 2-45 the sides turned out as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal Eccles, and Balmer, backs, Wolstenholmes, Blyth, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor (captain), Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray forwards. Aston Villa: - George, goal, Spencer, and Crabtree, backs, Noon Cowan, and Wilkes, halfbacks Athersmith, Johnson, Garrity, Wheldon and Smith forwards. The ground had been liberally sprinkled with sand, but was still on the heavy side, and the Villa having won the toss, had the assistance's of a slight breeze. The Villa opened well, and a swinging shot from Athersmith looked like taking effect when Wolstenholmes had the better of a tussle with Garrity and cleared. Settle and gray were then conspicuous by smart play but falling back, Johnson dispossessed the former player, and racing on finishing up with but a poor shot. At the other end, Everton forwards were putting in several fine touches of play, but their efforts only brought about a couple of fruitless corner kicks. A splendid sprint by Smith-the Villa left winger- was the next item, and it looked odds on Garrity converting his centre, when Eccles met the shot, luckily tipping it over the bar. So far play was evenly contested, both sets of backs being kept fully employed. Eventually Proudfoot led on a movement which Settle and Gray improved upon, and repassing the ball was placed accuralty to Taylor who gave George no chance of saving the shot. This success was loudly cheered, and on play being resumed the pace became very hot. Several determined raids were made by the Villa front rank, but they held in check by Balmer and Eccles. Wheldon however missed a fine chance in scoring by wide shooting, and at the other end of the line Athersmith was also at fault with a poor centre. Meanwhile the Everton forwards had quite as much of the play, which so far as their tactics were concerted was greatly admired. Nothing further however was scored, upto the interval, when Everton led by a goal to nil. On resuming, Sharp sent in a beautiful shot, which first missed entering the corner of the net and for some few minutes the Everton van were hovering round the home goal. Settle on one occasion threated his way through the backs only to place the ball too far forward than taking his shot. Several spirited attacks by the Villa were ably dealt with, and general play ruled in favour of the visitors. The forwards at times toyed with the home halves, only to meet with resistance from Spencer and had they not fallen back to play a defensive game 15 minutes from the finish they might have finally secured better results. A determined raid and a pass from the Villa left wing enabled Athersmith to head through. Result Everton 1 goal, Aston Villa nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 8 SKERTON 0
January 15 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
At Goodison park. Everton tried for Scotch recruits McWilliam Chambers Thompson, and Conway. Skerton were late and started with seven men. Play at the outset, Everton forwards doing much as they liked, though offside constantly upset them. With two more players Skerton played a capital defensive game and beat of attack after attack. Comway scored an offside goal just as the tenth men arrived. Skerton played a smart defensive game and though Everton had all the play, 25 minutes before Storey opened the score, Bond having no chance of giving. Skerton made a sortie, but were easily repulsed, and taking up the attack against Oldham shot a second goal. Half time Everton 2 goals Skerton nil. Oldham restarted and Everton again assumed the upper hand. Dawson scored a third point, which was quickly followed by one from Thompson. Skerton played pluckily but Dawson added three other goals. injured himself so badly in scoring the last that he had to be carried off the field. Result Everton 8 goals, Skerton nil. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Crelly and McWilliams, backs. Thompson Chambers, and Gordon halfbacks, Murray, Conway, Oldham, Dawson and Burke forwards.

EVERTON PLAY WELL AT ASTON
Birmingham Daily Post – Monday 15 January 1900
The Villa supporters had quite a fright on Saturday. For three-fourths of the game Everton possessed the lead, and although it was only a goal strong, yet it seemed (unreadable) them the victory, for they were (unreadable) after and more dangerous the period mentioned. However, when the second half was about twenty minutes old, the Villa, doubtless realising the seriousness of their position began to strain every nerve to equalise, and at length Athersmith met a centre from Smith, and directed the ball past Muir amidst a scene of tremendous enthusiasm, the crowd shouting themselves hoarse and throwing their hats into the air waving their sticks and umbrellas in a frenzy of delight. Once equal, and the Villa were the better team; they infused more life and method into their attack, and Everton may be deemed exceedingly lucky that their goal was not captured again before the finish. On two or three occasions very fast shots missed by inches only, whilst Wheldon and Garratty barely failed to head the winning point. And yet had Everton lost they would have been most unfortunate, for they were far and away the better team in the first half, and with ordinary luck would have established a lead of two, if not three, goals at the interval, and the game then -to use a racing phrase-would have been all over bar shouting. And just after half-time they were very aggressive, and only brilliant goalkeeping saved the Villa from disaster. For an hour Everton showed form worthy of a much higher place in the list than they now occupy. There was a perfect understanding between the forwards and they adopted that judicious blend of long and short passing which, in our opinion, is the perfection of attack. The centre (Proudfoot) who was about the best forward on the field, and the two inside men kept the ball sufficiently long to compel the closing in of the defenders, and then it would be passed skilfully and accurately to the outside men, who had a clear course them and full opportunity to centre, and, generally speaking Sharp and Gray succeeded in placing their centres well. As often as not they sent the ball into goal, and gave George some very anxious moments. It was when play had been in progress nine minutes that Taylor beat George and established a lead which, as before mentioned, Everton held well into the second half, and with a little good luck might have increased and gained a victory. Whilst all praise is due to the Everton attack, the Villa defenders are entitled to warm commendation, George and Spencer in particular. Both stood firm during the most trying periods. George, in fact, won warm applause for his custodianship, which was beyond reproach. High shots and low shots were stopped with equal facility, and several of his clearances were truly wonderful. During the early portion of the second half he suffered a regular bombardment, but he took the ball in every position with the ease consequent on faultless judgement, and always cleared it out of danger. Spencer’s play stamped him as a great back- the greatest, perhaps, in England at the present time- and international honours should be assured to him if he keeps well. Crabtree, save in one or two instances, was sound, and on the whole performed satisfactorily. James Cowan acquitted himself admirably at centre half, especially when it is considered that he was opposed to such a great forward as Proudfoot, whose superior at centre has not been seen on the ground this season; indeed, we doubt not as prominent as at West Bromwich. The former was frequently beaten by Taylor and Sharp, whilst Noon’s placing was not as good as it might have been. Still it must be remembered that he is comparatively new to the position, and will doubtless improve in the desired direction. The forwards, on the whole, did not play up to expectation, and their methods compared very unfavourably with those of their opponents. Wheldon, Garratty, and Johnson were not the equals of the three Everton players in the corresponding positions, but Smith and Athersmith both played exceedingly well, and when the latter was given a chance he invariably made good use of it. He received few chances before the interval, but was fed well during the last half-hour, and was a constant source of trouble to the opposing defence, a remark that also applies to Smith. The Everton team played splendidly all round. Muir was sound in goal, Balmer and Eccles were efficient tacklers and determined kickers, whilst the half-backs rendered yeoman assistance to the backs, and supported their forwards in commendable style. Abbott, who formerly played left wing forward for Small heath, gave a distinctly good display at left half-back, despite his increased weight. The forwards have already been referred to. They were certainly superior, taking the game through, to the Villa five. The man who stood out head and shoulders above his comrades was Proudfoot; it is a pity the Villa have not a centre of his stamp. Some interest was created by the appearance of J. Sharp, he did very well, but is certainly not the equal of Athersmith, though there are many who, after seeing him perform on Saturday, will still retain the opinion that he should have been kept by the Villa.

EVERTON v  ASTON VILLA
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 15 January 1900
The Everton players left Lime-street for Birmingham on Saturday morning shortly after ten o’clock, being in charge of Mr. Molyneux, the ever courteous and obliging secretary and the Midland city was reached in good time. The weather in the early morning was damp and cold, but on arriving in Birmingham a better state of things prevailed, the sun coming out strongly about two o’clock, and when the teams turned out there was every promise of a fine afternoon. By the appearance of the ground there had little rain fallen, though the turf was well soddened. Everton relied upon the same team that did so well last week, while the Villa were represented by their strongest eleven. There were about 16,000 spectators present. The home team won the toss, and Everton started in face of a slight wind. After the opening exchanges Everton advanced on the left, but Settle was pulled by Noon, and then the Villa took up the attack. Athersmith and Johnson proving very troublesome. They were at last cleared out by Balmer, but the Villa forwards returned to the attack, but this time Wolstenholme cleared, and again Everton took up the running. Settle finishing with a very tame shot. After this the Villa again came down strongly and a mistake by Balmer let in Athersmith, but he shot very wide of the mark. The visitors them assumed the aggressive, some smart work by Sharp forcing a corner of Crabtree, but this came to nothing. The Villa left were next in evidence, Smith racing down finely, and gave Garratty a chance which the latter spoiled. Midfield work followed, after which Sharp and Taylor got off very cleverly, and a fine movement ended in the Everton captain placing the ball into the corner of the net, right out of George’s reach. After this reverse, the Villa made strenuous efforts to get even, and for some time the Everton defence had all its work cut out. The Villa shooting, however, was not as accurate as usual, and for a second time Garratty missed a fine opportunity of scoring. The game opened out considerably, and there was little to choose between the teams, both sides attacking and defending with skill in turn. The Everton forwards played a magnificent game, their passing being extremely clever and their attack possessing all the old dash. The Villa defence, however, was strong, and the visitors failed time after time to force their lines. Favoured by the wind the home quintet ran down in fine fashion, and a smart pass from the left gave Johnson a grand opportunity, but, to the disappointment of the crowd the shot went over the bar. Following upon this the visitors made play on the right. Taylor sending in a grand shot, which forced George to concede a corner. From this the ball was sent across to Settle, who sent in a warm handful, which George fisted clear amid great excitement. After this play ruled rather slow, though the Villa made desperate efforts to score.
Half-time score; Everton 1 goal, Aston Villa nil. 
Immediately on the resumption the visitors advanced, Sharp sending in a fine shot, which caused George considerable trouble. After this the Villa attacked strongly, but their shooting was not accurate, and Muir was never really much troubled. Still they persisted in their attentions to the Everton citadel, and a fine open movement ended in Wheldon shooting high over the bar. Sharp removed play by a magnificent run along the wing. He passed to Proudfoot, and the latter in turn gave to Settle, who certainly would have scored had he not hesitated, and George had time to run out and clear. The visitors, however, continued to press, all the forwards playing a fine dashing game, and another grand move ended in Settle shooting over the bar. A charge in the game was caused by Smithtwice beating Wolstenholme, which nearly brought about Everton’s downfall. Wheldon shooting strongly, but Muir saved. Athersmith scored for the Villa ten minutes from the finish. Result; Everton 1 goal, Aston Villa 1 goal. Teams;- Everton;- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; J. Sharp, Taylor (Captain), Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Aston Villa;- George, goal; Spencer and Crabtree, backs; Mann, Cowan, and Wilkes, half-backs; Athersmith, Johnson, Garratty, Wheldon, and Smith, forwards.

A CLOSE SHAVE FOR THE VILLA
The Athletic News- Monday, January 15, 1900
By Brum
It has long been a popular boast that Aston Villa are seen to most advantage when playing against skilful scientific opponents. This holds good to a certain extent, but rules have their exceptions, and the popular idea was certainly not borne out in their game against Everton. After all the rain we have had it was thought advisable to strew white sand about the pitch, and this was done very liberally. In the weather, but with a nasty raw wind blowing, something like 18,000 or 20,000 turned up to give the Lancashire team a welcome, John Sharp getting an especially warm greeting. Except that Blyth took Boyle’s place at centre-half, the Everton side turned out as advertised, while the Villa relied upon the eleven that won the previous Saturday at West Bromwich. Mr. Barker had charge of the game, and the following player;-
Aston Villa.- George, goal; Spencer, and Crabtree, backs; Noon, Cowan, and Wilkes, half-backs; Athersmith, Johnson, Garratty, Wheldon, and Smith, forwards. Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blyth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Although the wind was brisk enough behind the Villa it gave Everton very little concern, the opening runs being towards the home goal. Sharp slinging the ball a few inches outside the further corner in slashing style. Then the Villa had a look in Garratty and Athersmith both missing splendid chances with the goalkeeper only to beat. Although these came early on they had a distinct bearing on the result, for the visitors quickly settled down to serious business, and when the game was only nine minutes, and when the game was only nine minutes old Taylor beat George with a fast shot after a bit of a scuffle in front of the posts. This early success had a wonderful effect on the Everton players, and with the Villa wing halves playing very poor football, it was not surprising that the visiting team practically monopolised the attack. Johnson roused a big cheer for a beautiful shot which skimmed the crossbar with astonishing velocity, but the Everton men held their well-earned lead when the interval arrived. The second half was practically a repetition of the opening. Everton showing fine combination, while the Villa men were all at sixes and sevens. Wilkes made some most ridiculous blunders in kicking the ball clean to an opponent’s toe, after tackling with sound judgement, and but for the
SUPERB CLEARANCES OF SPENCER
Who came to the rescue time after time, Everton must have captured many goals. At one period there was a regular combined bombardment of the Villa goal, but George was in great form, and managed to keep the foe at bay. Time was running on rapidly, and when Wheldon began to make the most unusual mistakes in shooting for goal, it seemed as if the Villa were in for a thrashing. Smith tricked Eccles prettily, and got the ball across goal several times, but his centres went begging. There was barely a quarter of an hour to go when one of the few combined runs of the match on the Villa side gave Johnson the ball well up. A lovely pass was made to Smith, who was unmarked, and Athersmith, dashing in, headed the equalising goal from a pretty centre. The Villa woke up a little in the last few minutes, and almost on the stroke of time Johnson whipped in another grand shot which travelled so close that many began to cheer in anticipation of a goal. It was not to be, however, for Everton held their own, and had the satisfaction of capturing a point, a goal each being the score at the finish. A little luck might easily have given the visitors the game, for they played a surprisingly good game, and on the afternoon
WERE DECIDEDLY THE BETTER TEAM.
Muir does not strike one as an ideal goalkeeper, but he had a resolute pair of backs in front, Eccles being the surer of the two. Abbott was seen to advantage in the half-back line, although Blyth probably got through the most work. Wolstenholme tackled sturdily enough, but often came under the ban of the referee for unfair tactics. That the halves thoroughly broke up the Villa combination, what little we saw of it, goes entirely to their credit. Gray and Settle were a long way the better wing, Sharp doing comparatively little after the first hour, although he did not have too many chances given to him either by Taylor or Proudfoot. The latter proved of immense service in the centre, and was always in position to lead the van. His eagerness led him to get off-side occasionally, but all the same he played a rattling good game, and bothered Crabtree more than a little. The Villa gave us one of their very poorest shows, and though they had hard lines once or twice, they have no reason whatever to be dissatisfied with a draw. There was too much messing and dawdling with the ball in the front line, Johnson giving a curious mixture of good, bad, and indifferent play. Garratty was not nearly so good as usual, Smith being the best of the bunch. Not for a long time has the forward play been so ragged or so palpably below the class of their opponents. Wilkes and Noon were both uncertain, and again serious fault must be found with the former’s feeding the ball being given to an opponent much more frequently than to a player on how own side. Cowan, so usual of late, played a rare-good game, and retrieved the line from absolute weakness. Spencer was the better of the backs and it will be a good thing when Evans comes into the team again, so that Crabtree can play at half. George did his part really well, effecting some capital saves at critical moments.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday, January 15, 1900
By the Loiterer
Skerton opposed Everton Reserves at Goodison, and as the initial match at Lancaster ended in Skerton being routed by 6 goals to love they didn’t appear to have much chance down here. To begin they came late, and started the game with only seven men. Of course this made play farcical, but the funny part of it was Everton couldn’t get a legitimate goal against those seven men for nuts. The offside rule, of course, had something to do with it. When three more Skeltonian came on, however, the home lot woke up, and scored by Storey, though the game was quite 25 minutes old. How Bond’s goal escaped during that time was a mystery. The Combination officials may have something to say about it all the same. Skerton were in a minority of 2 goals at half-time, and chiefly owing to Dawson’s dexterity in the second half lost by a clear 8 goals. Dawson shot four goals in the last half, and then had the misfortune to hurt himself very badly. Everton tried four Scotch recruits, but it would be useless to judge them in this particular match.

A STALYBRIDGE PLAYER FOR EVERTON
Manchester Courier – Wednesday 17 January 1900
The Stalybridge Rovers Football Club directorate did a good stroke of business on Monday, when they agreed to transfer the services of Ellis Green, their centre half to Everton for the sum of £120. Green came from Middleton to the Rovers for a transfer fee of £5. Everton have agreed to give them a bonus of £10 and pay him £4 as wages in the winter and £2 10s per week in the summer. He will make his essay with the Everton team against Burnley on February 3rd, and is to play with the Rovers until they have completed their English Cup tie with Bristol.

EVERTON REVIEW
January 18 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Since the Villa removed to their new quarters at Aston, visits of the Everton team to the headquarters of the midland club have not borne gratifying results. Last season and the one before saw Everton defeated on each occasion by three goals to nil, but on Saturday there was every indication of the ‘'Blues'' making amends for these failures, and by no mean limited margin. They gave a far more skillful exposition at all. Points of the game, and particularly was this manifest arriving the forwards whose display was generally admitted to be faultless with but one exception, and that in occasional faulty finishing up touches. At the end of nine minutes play Everton had opened their accout after magnificent passing between the centre and left wing, and though facing a brisk breeze, they more than held their own up to the interval. On resuming they were seen to even greater advantage, and with a little luck must have piled on goals, but so watched were Spence, and George, combined with none more faulty shooting, that they failed to increase their lead. A quarter of an hour off time Athersmith headed into the net, and the game finish one goal each. Both sides adopted almost identical tactics, and the Villa spectators were ready to admit that their favourities were fairly beaten at their own game. Supporters of the home club, judging by their warm appreciation of good play are certainly exceptions to the general run. They do not, as in many centres of general run. They do not as many centre of general the football world. Simply pay their nimble sixpence to see their side win. They go to see good play, and are not slow to appreciate excellent, no matter from what side it emanates. The frequent applause meted out to the Everton team when they brought out prominently the nicer points of the game almost led one to image that the contest was at Goodison Park, especially when the splendid bout of passing reterest so above culminated in Taylor opening the scoring. The contest was thus rendered all the more enjoyable by the impartial conduct of the spectators, and are would like to see this spirit extended to visitors on numberous other enclosures. As stated above, the Everton forwards play a surpassingly good game and though it would appear somewhat unfair to single out players for special mention, criticism on this branch of play would be incomplete without a passing notice of the work by Proudfoot who played an ideal centre for game. The half backs too, were very resourceful, and there was scarcely an occasion where a wild pass or loose tackling was noticeable. At full back both Balmer and Eccles got through their work creditably, and the capital turn of speed possessed by the latter player served him in good stead against Smith and Wheldon the speedy Villa left wing, Muir in goal was always reliable, and it was a pity after successfully keeping out his opponents during determined rushes, that his charge fell as the result of the ball rebounding from the upright. Owing to the vigilance of the Everton trio the Villa forwards were only on odd occasions seen in those dangerous movements which have been witnessed on other enclosure than their own. Like their opponents, they had fairly easy chances of scoring and he greatly delinquent in this respect were Wheldon. Blythe struck most tenaciously to Garrirty, the Villa centre, and this enhinged the concerted movements that have been too prominent in late matches and taking the line as a whole they were much below the opposing quintet. Cowan at centre half gave a disappointing performance, but the work of Spencer at right full back was the brightest feature in the display of his side. For clean kicking, accurate tackling, combined with sound judgement and gentlemanly play, he had no superior on the field, and but for his efforts Everton must have secured a prounced victory with the advent of the Cup tie fever one naturally anticipates much progress in the compeition by the Everton Club, and with a view to keeping the players in the best of conditions, they leave for Lytham today for a course of special training.

FIXTURES FOR THE DAY
The Liverpool Mercury, Saturday January 20 1900
The piece de resistance in local football to-day is the meeting of Liverpool and Everton in their return fixture at Goodison Park. No matter what the conditions are, the fact of Liverpool and Everton being opposed to each other is sufficient to stir the most sluggish pulse of the most lethargic supporter of the game, and there is little doubt that the fine accommodation provided at the home of the Everton Club will be taxed to its utmost this afternoon. The teams are meeting under somewhat singular circumstances, for Liverpool cannot afford to lose a couple of points without endangering their status in the League, whilst Everton have in recent games shown unmistakable of coming on in their play. There should be, therefore, a rare tussle for supremacy. Everton won the first fixture at Anfield by two goals to one, previous to which neither team had scored a victory in the League tourney, and will doubtless make a great effort to repeat the performance, and thus enable them to cry quits with their rivals, who last season were twice conquerors. Liverpool, on the other hand, may be depended upon to strive their hardest to retrieve their lowly position, and the issue appears to be an extremely open one. Both teams have been undergoing special training-though this has been done for Cup-tie purposes-Everton at Lytham and Liverpool at their favourite resort Fairhaven. The players are in fine condition, and given favourable weather, an interesting contest should be the result. May the laurels of victory fall to the better team. Everton;- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle and Grey, forwards. Liverpool;- Perkins goal; Goldie, and Dunlop, backs; Howell, Raisbeck, and Goldie, half-backs; Robertson, Walker, Raybould, Morgan, and Satterthwaite, forwards.
Lancashire Combination
Berry’s v Everton reserve, Harpurhey.

“DERBY DAY” AT GOODISON PARK
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, January 20, 1900
EVERTON v. LIVERPOOL
LIVERPOOL LEAD AT THE INTERVAL
LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
RAYBOULD SCORES FOR LIVERPOOL
BLYTHE AND SETTLE SCORE FOR EVERTON
SETTLE ADDS A THIRD
EVERTON SCORED THREEE GOALS IN FIVE MINUTES
Notwithstanding the fact that neither of our local League clubs have satisfied their respective supporters this season, there was no diminution in the interest attacking to the return engagement at Goodison Park this afternoon. It will be recollected that when the teams previously met at Anfield neither had scored a point in the tournament, and now Liverpool were fighting desperately to get away from the bottom of the table. The Johus, omnibuses, electric cars, &c, did a tremendous business, conveying spectators to the place of battle, and as early as two o’clock-an hour before the start- outside and inside, the ground presented a scene of the most animated character. Amongst the spectators there existed a feeling of wild enthusiasm, and they eagerly discussed the probable issue of this impending contest. In view of the game under notice, and also of the new approach of the English Cup ties, execution of both despatched their players to their respective training quarters -Liverpool to Fairheaven, and Evertonto Lytham, where they doubtless have often seen each other during the week. The teams left their recreative quarters shortly after ten this morning, and after luncheon were driven to the ground. Concerning the teams Boyle was still an absentee from the home ranks, Blythe appearing at centre-half, whilst Liverpool relied upon the identical eleven that operated last week. The men seemed in the very pink of condition, and the ground was in splendid order. Indeed the weather could not have been a finer for so important a contest. The teams faced punctually as follows;- Everton; Muir, goal; Eccles (right back), Balmer (Left back); Wolstenholme, Blythe, Abbott, half-backs; J. Sharp, Taylor, right wing, Proudfoot, Settle, Gray, left wing. Liverpool; Perkins, goal; Goldie, right back, Dunlop, left back; Howell, Raisbeck, W. Goldie, half-backs; Robertson, Walker, right wing; Raybould, Morgan, Satterthwaite, left wing. At five minutes to three Taylor led the comrades into the arena, and was greeted with a rousing cheer. A couple of minutes later Dunlop and his team came in, and made their bow amid a renewal of the cheering. Mr. J. Lewis very soon had his “interview” with the captains, the Everton skipper winning the toss, and Raybould starting before about 30,000 spectators. The commencement of the game was of the most sensational nature, as the Liverpudlians leisurely advanced, and then made a sudden dash to the front where Raisbeck kept up a Sharp shot. A Sharp shot with the result that Muir was at once in difficulties. The Everton goalkeeper, endeavoured to clear, but dropped the ball, and then Raybould planted the leather in the net after a slight scrimmage in the goalmouth, all this occurring during the first minute of the game. Raybould was hurt during these proceedings, and, after being attended to on the field, he had to centre, but he soon recovered and made his reappearance amid ringing cheers, This was a sudden and unexpected reverse for Everton, and when the game was resumed from the centre the “Blues” made a couple of determined raids. Sharp flew along the right wing, and after some very neat passing, Gray shot a couple of yards wide. A race for possession between Proudfoot and Dunlop ended in favour of the latter, and midfield play ensued. From a free kick Eccles landed the ball right into the Liverpool goal, Perkins fisting over the bar, the ensuing corner, however, only yielding a second similarly abortive advantage. The game was being contested in most deadly earnest and both sides went at it with much spirit and considering the tension under which the players laboured, the play was of a very high quality. A beautiful sprint by Robertson ended in that player gaining Liverpool’s first corner, from which little Howell was quickly on the ball with terrier like tenacity, but he was too eager and sent the sphere over the crossbar. A little later the home contingent was to the front. Gray earning the plaudits of the crowd for beating Goldie and giving. A clever centre after which Proudfoot dashed down the centre and sent the ball flying over the crossbar. Liverpool then had a turn, Robertson and Walker performing beautifully, the first named finishing a grand move by shooting wretchedly. Liverpool had another turn, and put the defenders in some straits. Robertson again had an opportunity in the way of goal potting but failed to give proper direction to the ball. From the goal kick Everton dashed along in most refreshing style, Settle finishing up the move with a brilliant though futile shot for goal. Midfield work of an interesting character ensued and then Everton had a further chance from a free kick, but the defence of the “Red” brigade was too clever to effect a score. Goldie once pulling up Settle when it seemed certain that the latter would equalise. A brief but ineffectual breakaway by Liverpool was followed by another. Bombardment of the Liverpool position. Gray making one magnificent effort to beat Perkins who just succeeded in preserving the citadel whilst a moment later the home outside left again swung the ball across the goal. Proudfoot being given a grand opening but he disappointed Everton supporters by shooting wide. Blythe then served his left wingers on to occasions, but they were too well watched by Howell and Company to do any good. An incursion on the part of the Liverpool left soon followed but this was checked by Eccles. The return was met by Raybould, who speedily nipped through his opponents and made straight for goal. With no one but the Everton goalkeeper to oppose him, it looked a thousand to one on a score, but Muir took to the situation at a glance, and rushing out took the leather and cleared splendidly. Just afterwards Everton had hard luck indeed, as after splendid working Sharp sent in a lovely shot which was prevent from scoring by Proudfoot who inadvertently blocked the progress of the ball when it was going straight in to the Liverpool goal. A regular melee now ensued between Gray on the one side and Howell, Walker and Robertson on the other, but on the evidence the numbers prevailed. Robertson succeeding in capturing the sphere though in the engagement Howell was slightly hurt, and on resumed Liverpool forced a corner which was cleared out, but Liverpool came again and attacked with renewed vigour, Morgan being in a splendid position in scoring when Taylor nipped in and effected a smart clearance. Morgan hurt himself somewhat through by resumed shortly afterwards. At this stage Liverpool were undoubtedly displaying the superior force and their movements being more combined and their attempts for goal more accurate. Robertsonand Walker each making efforts to beat Muir. Five minutes before half time the home side had a free kick, and planted the ball in the net, but without touching a second player in its flight. Liverpool then took up the attack, Satterthwaitetrying his hand in the shooting department. Sharp made a sudden dash along his wing but, although he got in his shot, Dunlop spoiled his chance. Each side redoubled their efforts, Liverpool having a free kick, of which they made little use, and Taylor at the other end sent the ball across , the chance going a begging. Liverpool had the remainder of the play, half-time being sounded with the score;-
Half-time score- Liverpool 1 goal Everton nil.
When the teams reappeared (unreadable) Proudfoot got the ball in motion, and Everton them assumed the aggressive some excellent exchanges enabling Gray to get in a magnificent shot the ball just skimming the bar. This achievement was followed by a spell of midfield work,(unfortunately rest is not readable)

EVERTON 3 LIVERPOOL 1
January 22 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The return League fixture between the two rival teams of the city was decided at Goodison Park on Saturday. The weather was gloriously fine, and the conditions being perfect a crowd numbering fully 30,000 persons was present. The teams were exactly the same that did so well the previous week, and having been undergoing special training, Everton at Lythan and Liverpool at Fairheaven, the players were in the best possible composition. Under the guidance of Mr.J.Lewis, the men took up their respective positions: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Eccles and Balmer backs, Wolstenholmes, Blythe, and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor (captain), Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray forwards. Liverpool: - Perkins goal, Goldie (a) and Dunlop, backs, Howells, Raisebeck and Goldie (w) halfbacks Robertson Walker, Raybould, Morgan, and Scattethwaite, forwards.
Liverpool commenced with the sun facing them and the left wing working nicely down Morgan sent across Raisebeck who tried a long shot Muir turnisfied with the ball, and Raybould and Morgan dashing up a struggle ensued, during which the former appeared to send the ball over the coveted one. This success so easy in the game bodied well for the ultimate chances of Liverpool, but Everton retaliated and gather two corners, from the second of which Proudfoot drove over the bar with great force. The Everton left wing showed nice passing, but Raisebeck cleared and a splendid movement on the Liverpool right ensued, Walker eventually shooting wide. A couple of clver centres from Gray, who was showing great form, caused danger to the visitors defence and proudfoot headed over, when a few minutes afterwards Sharp drove in a low shot, which appeared as if it would take effect, but the Everton centre inadvertently stopped the ball in front of goal and Goldie sent to safer quarters. From a free kick Balmer sent into the net, without however touching a second player, and a very smart piece of work by Robertson was neutralised by a similar effort on the home right, but Taylor shot wide. Liverpool led at the interval by 1 goal to nil, and on resuming two clever efforts by Gray, the second of which led to a corner were with difficulty cleared. The Liverpool forwards combined nicely, particularly on the right wing, but there was a lack of efficiency in front of goal. On the Everton side Gray and Settle were always prominent but the Liverpool defence prevailed W.Goldie grandly beat Eccles, and Sharp, and his centre was met by Walker who made a good attempt to convert it. Everton forced the play at this juncture and from a pretty pass by proudfoot, Settle went wide when in a favorable position. Coming again Gray by a determined effort forced a corner, and after the ball had been sent in and returned several times. Blythe obtained and with a very fast low shot equalised after 25 minutes play amidst a perfect torrent of applause. Scarcely had the cheers died away than Gray was again cantering along the left and another corner enabled Settle to scored a second goal. This was not to be the last of the scoring, for in the next minute a foul against Liverpool was given and the ball bring well placed in front of goal. Perkins had to fist out, but Settle again obtained, and scored the third goal. All three points had been obtained in the space of five minutes. Liverpool tried desperately to decrease their adverse margin, and Muir saved at full length from Scatterwait, while he was slightly hurt in saving Raybould shot. Two other corners fell to Liverpool but they could not score, and the final result was in favour to Everton by 3 goals to 1.

BERRY 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 22 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
No details.

EVERTON REVIEW
January 22 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
For the second time this season Liverpool have had to strike their colours to their rivals, Everton; their latest reverse being even more decisive than the first defeat. They have thus had to experience the same pain of misfortune that last year were borne by Everton, and the latter have fully made amends for the dual disaster of the previous season. Local enthusiasm were afford the opportunity of bring satisfied with pleasure, for the day was gloriously fine redolent indeed of springtime, and absolutely perfect for the all important struggle. What more could be desired- a glorious afternoon and a league tussle between two local eleven surely forming a combination suffciently enter taining to arouse the dullies spirit of the most lethargic mortal. To one club indeed the issue was fraught with the utmost importance, for to Liverpool a defeat meant another link forged in the chain, which seems to be dragging them towards the second division. No outside circumstance of the nature is needed to arouse the keenest of rivalry in these matches, and the fast of this feature being present simply tended to raise the interest of the highest patch. The fixture coming as it did on the eve of the first round of the English Cup Competition, found the men in splendid conditions, the result of the bracing breeze of ozone, inhaled on the Lancashire coast, and the men who were to face each other on the Goodison Park enclosure in a stern struggle for victory had been practically within a stone's throw of each other at Lytham and Fairheaven respectively, each endeavoring to obtain from the elements the highest conditions of efficiency. No wonder the people rolled up in thousands-the day itself was sufficient to tempt then forth- and the Everton treasure must have blandly smiled as his eye wandered over the surging set of faces that surrounded the enclosure, which with its splendid bit of turf and ample accommodation can nowhere be excelled. Everton in fact, appropriated all the smiles, and Liverpool had again to rest satisfied with the frown of fortune. They deserves some little commiseration in this instance for the Anfield eleven had quite as much of the game as their opponents, but Everton appropriated the majority of the goals and all the points. There was precious little to choose between the teams, and a draw would have been a more accurate record of a moderate combat. Liverpool from a long shot by Raisebeck were a goal ahead after less than a minute ‘s play and had they taken the lesson to heart might not now have been bemoaning the loss of two points. It was a long shot, easy to tackle, which caused Muir's first downfall, but the Reds instead of testing the Everton custodian with other similar efforts adopted the possibly more pleasing and attractive short passing tactics, and an usual overdid the whole business, the result being that Muir had little to trouble him for the rest of the afternoon. The Everton forwards were in a like humour, and rarely looked like scoring, particularly in the first half. Victory for Liverpool was becoming more than probable when Gray who was a long way the best man in the Everton front rank, forced a corner, and an equalise came. In less than five minutes Gray had made two more openings, from which his partner Settle, had put on two goals, the transformation was a reality and Everton had reached the summit of felicity. To the majority of the crowd, the day, which had been steadily growing blacker, had in a few minutes become a vision of transit. The great weakness on the Liverpool side was the feeble work of their forwards in front of goal. The old fault was present of anything, in an intensified state, of passing with out any effective shooting. The right wing composed of Robertson and walker constituted the most dangerous part of their attack but even here a good rousing shot was looked for in vain. Morgan did not work well, but neither Raybould, nor Scattlewait did himself or herself justice. For the greater part of the game the Everton front rank was quite as inefficient as that of their rivals. On the right wing Taylor and Sharp gave a very moderate display. Proudfoot was not any better, but the fine work of Gray and Settle compensated somewhat for the many shortcomings of their comrades. All the goals obtained by the home side were the ultimate result of smart openings cleverly worked for by the left wing. Upon the respective half backs division the bad of the play devolved, and right well did the men respond. Blythe and Wolstenholmes led the way in the home ranks, but no player on the field excelled Howell, who gave a remarkably clever exhibition. Raisebeck was not so successful, his kicking being very faulty, and his placing not accurate, this being in mark to goldie who was little behind Howell in efficiency. Further in the rear Everton held a decided advantage, both full backs cleverly clearing and covering Muir most judiciously. Goldie was the better of the Liverpool pair, for Dunlop appears of late to have developed too much rashness in his returns and at all times to lunge at the ball to the limits of his capacity. Neither custodian was heavily tested at any period of the game, though Muir made one good clearance from scatteerwaite in the last five minutes, and saved by falling full length. Perkins could scarcely be blamed for any of the shots, that scored, all of which were the result more of laxity of the whole Liverpool defence when near their own goal, them of any individual. Everton may thus fairly lay claim to local supremacy this season and have scored five goals whilst Liverpool have obtained but one in each game.

EVERTON AGAIN BEAT THEIR RIVALS
Athletic News - Monday 22 January 1900
By the Loiterer
The second meeting of the two Liverpool clubs has been delayed somewhat this season, and perhaps it is just as well the stem of arranging fixtures, or whatever has been the cause, has so ruled it, as during the interval the clubs have shown better form than what was given us at the usual time of meeting in the return match. My readers will remember that when the teams met on September 23, their record as regards points was blank, and the game was looked forward to as the means of both clubs scoring under this head but the public, and I think the majority were satirically inclined, were mistaken, as Everton would two goals to one. Since then neither team have done themselves justice, and it is only of recent date that either have arisen to the occasion. Everton have done much better than their rivals, as at glance at the League table will show, but Liverpool have also “bucked up,” and the match under notice was generally looked upon as an even affair. Everything pointed to a good game, the weather being on its best behaviour, and the teams, both of which have been training in the Fylde district, were at their best, as will be seen from the following list;- Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, Abbott, half-backs; J. Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Liverpool;- Perkins, goal; A. Goldie, and Dunlop, backs; Howell, Raisbeck, and W. Goldie, half-backs; Robertson, Walker, Raybould, Morgan, and Satterthwaite, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Lewis, Blackburn. The game opened in a sensational manner, as within a minute Liverpool were one goal up. It came about this way; Raybound kicked off, and the Liverpool left made play, and the ball came to Raisback, who was well up the field, and he banged the ball in. Muir saved, but he not clear well, and Raybould pushed up, and between them the ball rolled leisurely over the line. This early reverse put life in the proceedings, which were in Everton’s favour for a long time. As an outcome of some good work by the home forwards, the ball was often in the Liverpool half, and Gray, Settle, Proudfoot, or Taylor would make great attempts to draw level, but the Liverpool half-backs contested every inch of ground, and the tackling of Goldie and Dunlop as a last resource was very fine. Dunlop was inclined to be a bit rush, but Goldie was as sound as a ball, or Everton would not have left off at the interval a goal behind. The Liverpool forwards had a say in the argument, as after Everton had enjoyed the fun, Robertson, Walker, and the left wing put in grand work, and on the whole their side had the better of the play. The
LIVERPOOL GOAL HAD A NARROW ESCAPE
Early on in the second half, as Gray skimmed the bar with an awkward shot right away. Then play settled down in midfield for a spell, but the Liverpool men could claim some advantage in the exchanges. There was not much in it, for if Robertson and Walker got through with splendid play. Balmer in the end was more than their match. The fun commenced after twenty-five minutes’ play, when a good run by Sharp ended in the ball going to the left wing, and after a brief tussle with Howell and Raisebeck, Blythe secured, and sent in a fast shot, and Perkins was beaten. From the kick-off the Everton forwards came in a body. To prevent further damage a corner was given and well placed, and after a brief scuffle, Settle planted the ball into the net. This was a turn-up, but more was to follow, as the Everton forwards wanted a lot of stopping, in fact, this could not be done by fair means, and a trip against one of the Liverpool men ended in a free kick being given well up the field, but the ball was well placed, and Settle again scored, all.
THREE COMING WITHIN FIVE MINUTES’
Time. This was a regular turn-up, and do what they would, and they tried hard, the Liverpool men could not reduce the margin against them. The game was a good one, and excepting for a few brief spells was always exciting. The play generally was up to the average, and there was no mistaking the earnest efforts of the players. Up to Everton equalising, and their rubbing it in, I thought Liverpool were the better team. Their forwards got along better, and worked with more method, but they overdid the passing, and occasionally individual work was too pronounced, and against resolute defenders this does not come off. Robertson and Walker were always in the thick of it, and so was Morgan, but the latter spoiled his work by bad placing at the finish. Raybould, too, was knocking around, and was useful. The Everton forward play was very uneven, good bits by Settle, Taylor, and Gray failing for want of a good understanding, yet the whole of the forwards were than once passed accurately all along the line. The half-back play was a strong feature brough out the proceedings, Howell and Morgan on the one side, and the three of the Everton halves on the other, repeatedly breaking up the combination, in fact, the tackling on both sides was up to the mark, and was quite free from anything approaching unfair. The backs were also up to the mark, and left nothing to chance, whilst neither goalkeeper can be blamed for the goals scored. It was certainly hard lines on Perkins to be beaten with two shots that practically came from scrimmages close to the goal, but this is the run of the game, and at that period the Everton forwards were going great guns, their dash being too great for the Liverpool defenders.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News- Monday, January 22, 1900
By the Loiterer
The attendance at the Everton and Liverpool match was a satisfactory one, but not up to what the club have received so far. At one time Liverpool held the record, but Birmingham beat it last season, so that the 30,000 odd that patronised the match on Saturday falls very short of the number present on former occasions. That is a detail which does not trouble me in the least. The game was a good one in every sense, and the exciting incident which won the match was but a fitting climax to an enjoyable game. It may shows what encouragement is derived from success, for up to the time Everton equalised Liverpool looked all over a winning team. Then it was that the Everton men found their feet, and made good use of them, and won. The game might just as well have gone the other way about, and no one would have been surprised. Here we have the winners playing for all they are worth, and checkmated at every point, and then they get going and improve, with the result they are two goals up, and what is more, maintain the advantage to the close. We have to take the rough with the smooth and the Liverpool Club have gone through the mill.

EVERTON v.  LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 22 January 1900
This match was played at Goodison Park, before 30,000 spectators. In view of the game under notice, and also of the near approach of the English Cup ties, the executives of both clubs had during the week despatched their players to their respective training quarters- Liverpool being quartered at Fairhaven and Everton at Lytham. Boyle was still an absentee from the home ranks, Blythe appearing at centre half, whilst Liverpool relied upon the identical eleven that operated last week. The men seemed in the very pink of condition, and the ground was in splendid order. Indeed the weather could not have been finer for so important a contest. At five minutes to three Taylor the home captain, led his comrades into the arena, and was greeted with a rousing cheer. A couple of minutes later Dunlop and his team came in, and made their bow amid a renewal of the cheering. Mr. J. Lewis very soon had his “interview” with the captains, the Everton skipper winning the toss, and Raybould starting. The commencement of the game was of the most sensational nature, as the Liverpudlians leisurely advanced, and then made a sudden dash to the front, where Raisbeck sent in a sharp shot, with the result that Muir was at once in difficulties. The Everton goalkeeper endeavoured to clear, but dropped the ball, and then Raybould planted the leather in the net after a slight scrimmage in the goal mouth, all this occurring during the first minute of the game. Raybould was hurt during these proceedings, and, after being attended to on the field, he had to retire, but he soon recovered, and made his reappearance amid ringing cheers. This was a sudden and unexpected reverse for Everton, and when the game was resumed from the centre, the “Blues” made a couple of determined raids. The game was being contested in most deadly earnest, and both sides went at it with much spirit, and considering the tension under which the players laboured, the play was of a very high quality. A beautiful sprint by Robertson ended in that player gaining Liverpool’s first corner, from which little Howell was quickly on the ball with terrier-like tenacity, but he was too eager, and sent the sphere over the cross-bar. A little later the home contingent was to the front, Gray earning the plaudits of the crowd for beating Goldie and giving a clever centre, after which Proudfoot dashed down the centre and sent the ball flying over the crossbar. Liverpool then had a turn. Robertson and Walker performing beautifully, the first named finishing a grand move by shooting wretchedly. Liverpool had another turn, and put the defenders in some straits. Robertson again had an opportunity in the way of goal-potting, but failed to give proper direction to the ball. A bombardment of the Liverpool position ensued, Gray making one great effort to beat Perkins, who just succeeded in preserving the citadel, whilst a moment later the home outside left again swung the ball across the goal, Proudfoot being given a grand opening, but he shot wide. Raybould made straight for goal, with no one but the Everton goalkeeper to oppose him, but Muir took in the situation at a glance, and, rushing out, took the leather from the toes of the would be shootist and cleared splendidly. Just afterwards Everton had hard luck indeed, as after splendid working Sharp sent in a lovely shot, which was prevented from scoring by Proudfoot, who inadvertently blocked the progress of the ball when it was apparently going straight into the Liverpool goal. A regular melee now ensued between Gray on the one side and Howell, Walker, and Robertson on the other, but in the end superior numbers prevailed. Robertson succeeding in capturing the splendid, though in the engagement Howell was slightly hurt. On hostilities being resumed Liverpool forced a corner, which was cleared out, but Liverpool came again and Morgan was in a splendid position for scoring when Taylor nipped in and effected a smart clearance. Morgan hurting himself somewhat, though he resumed shortly afterwards. At this stage Liverpool were undoubtly displaying the superior tactics, their movements being more combined, and their attempts for goal more accurate, Robertson and Walker each making efforts to beat Muir. Five minutes before half-time the home side had a free kick, and planted the ball in the net, but without touching a second player in its flight. Liverpool had the remainder of the play up to the interval, when the score was -Liverpool 1 goal, Everton nil. The interval was rather longer than usual, and as a slight haze fell over the ground apprehensions were felt in some quarters as to darkness before the game finished. Proudfoot set the ball in motion, and Everton quickly assumed the aggressive, some excellent exchanges enabling Gray to get in magnificent shot, the ball just skimming the bar. This achievement was followed by a spell of midfield work, the halves on either side displaying smart tactics, and for a time neither side made much headway. For a while afterwards the Liverpudlians had the better of the argument but Robertson had a very hard nut to crack when he met Balmer, and finally their efforts were brought to book owing to a free kick being given against them. Magnificent passing by the whole of the Everton front rank culminated in Gray forcing a corner from Goldie, but the leather was sent behind, and in a subsequent move forward Raisbeck proved rather too fast for Sharp, and came off with flying honours. However, the homesters came back on the opposite wing, and made serious inroads on the Liverpool lines, but were eventually brought to bay by the Liverpool captain. Everton maintained a spirited attack, and at last Blythe, with a wonderfully swift, low shot, completely beat Perkins, this success being received with loud and prolonged shouts of delight, accompanied with hats, sticks, and umbrellas flung into the air, regardless of consequences. Naturally spurred on by this success, the Everton team played up with remarkable judgement, forcing a corner. After this had been once cleared Settle gained possession and banged the sphere into the net. The excitement had now reached fever heat, but more was still to follow, for in a few seconds Everton were again in front of Perkins, Settle once more taking unerring aim, scored the third goal, amid a scene of indescribable enthusiasm, the three points having been put on in the short space of five minutes. No wonder, the Everton partisans were beside themselves with joy, and it is many a long day since such wild excitement prevailed on the Goodison Park enclosure. It now appeared all over with Liverpool, but they played up with praiseworthy determination, Muir being twice unsuccessfully tested. The game to the finish continued of an interesting character, both goals being frequently threatened, but the end arrived without any further scoring, Everton gaining a well-merited victory. Result;- Everton 3 goals, Liverpool 1 goal. Teams;- Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles and Blamer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs;  J. Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Liverpool.- Perkins, goal; Goldie and Dunlop, backs; Howell, Raisbeck, and W. Goldie, half-backs; Robertson, Walker, Raybould, Morgan, and Satterthwaite, forwards.

EVERTON COMBINATION v.  LIVERPOOL RESERVES
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 27 January 1900
At Goodison Park; kick-off 3.15. Everton team; Kitchen, goal; Auld and Crelly, backs; Johnson, Gordon, and B. Sharp, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Boyle, McDowall, and Schofield, forwards. The following will represented Liverpool;- Storer, goal; Stevenson and C. Wilson, backs; Martin, Hunter, and Birchall, half-backs; Foxall, Parkinson, Raybould, Kyle, and Satterthwaite, forwards.

SOUTHAMPTON 3 EVERTON 0
January 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton team visited Southampton to contest their right to entry into the second round of the English Cup. The sides were at full strength and took up their position as follows: - Everton: -Muir goal, Eccles and Balmer backs, Wolstenholmes, Blythe, and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp Taylor (captain), Proudfoot, Settle and Gray forwards. Southampton: - Robinson, goal, Meechan, and Dunber, backs, Meston, Chadwick, and Petrie, halfbacks Turner, Yates Farrelly, Wood and Milward, forwards. Southampton commenced operations, and on the heavy ground had much of the opening play. Milward eventually netted the ball, but was ruled offside. A corner kick followed to Everton, but Robertson was on the alert, and a grand run by Turner, nearly brought the downfall of the Everton goal. Play them run on fairly even lines until the home left got possession and balmer and Eccles were kept busy in clearing dangerous rushes on Muir's charge. The custodian kept out a beauty from Milward as close range, and following more determined play in which the Southampton had the advantage, the interval arrived, without any scoring. On resuming Everton were seen to better advantage and Settle getting the better of Meethan, forced a fruitless corner. Play was quickly at the other end where Meston from long range sent in the ball, which called for Muir's best efforts to save and following a further attack; Milward opened the scoring from a free kick in good position. The Everton team were now playing in beauty fashion, and at length Turner scored a clever goal for Southampton. The home side played up vigorously and Milward put on a third goal this being the last point recorded in the game and Southampton winning by 3 goals to nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 LIVERPOOL RESERVES 3
January 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The reserves of the two teams met at Goodison Park, before 6,000 spectators in an ordinary match. Liverpool soon had rather the better of the play, but shot badly, and soon time elapsed and they scored from Satterwaite's centre. In the second half play was more interesting. Liverpool still ding the more aggressive work and as a result two more goals came. Final result Everton nil, Liverpool 3. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Crelly, and Auld, back, Thompson Gordon, and Sharp (b), half-backs, Roche Dawson, Boyle, McMather, and Schofield forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
January 29 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton, like their neighbours had a trying task on hand in visiting the much improved Southampton eleven, but judging from the recent performance of the League team there were many to be found confident on the blues clearing the first hurdle in the competition at the expense of the southern organisation. The latter club has recruited largely from the first League ranks; ands can command an eleven capable of giving the best teams in the country a good game. On their own particular enclosure they are formiable opponents, for their low lying ground, naturally on the heavy side, is a stumbling block to teams that usually disport themselves on playing pitches similar to that at Goodison Park. The ground is also in the small side and the home players this held a great advantage in this respect. They certainly adapted themselves to the existing conditions, a remark that does not all apply to the Everton contingent, who floundered about at time helplessly and appeared to have no definite plan of campaign in view. This is most annoying, coming from a team that has time after time shown aptitudes in coping with adverse conditions, and that they failed on Saturday was a better disappointment, following as it does upon their performances against Newcastle United and Liverpool. To a man the Southampton were keener on the ball, were more accurate in their movements steadier in defence and they thoroughly deserved their victory. It was not until the second half had been well in progress, however that they were able to put on a goal, and having once found the net, they soon discovered that their opponent s were not a team capable of fighting against the odds, two further goals were added and Everton were ousted from the competition by three goals to nil. It is somewhat remarkable that the ex-Evertonians now in the Southampton ranks played a most important part in the proceedings, Meechan's ability as a full back is, of course, well known in this district, and it can safely be asserted that there in no deterioration in his play, in fact he was by far the best back on the field, Milward, on the outside left was also a success. For some time he had a difficult task in opposing Wolstenholmes, but his movements were always dangerous and his centre accurate. Two out of the three goals were credited to him, and he must have been highly satisfied with his performance and his old clubmate, of the Everton players there were none that stood out at all prominently; on the other hand, there were several who failed to approximate a scored rate standard of play. The forwards were a district failure, particularly the wingmen, who were very dilatory in tackling an opposing back. Their faulty passing usually resulted in either Meechan or Dunbar placing the ball well in front of Muir, and, no this was not an infrequent feature of the game, it was not at all surprising that the Everton backs should have been overrun and Muir eventually defeated. It was unfortunate for Everton that Blythe had a serious kick above the eye in the early part of the proceedings, and it redounds greatly to the credit of the ex-Jarrow player that he should stick to his work all through the game. He was partially handicapped; however, for it was from the time he was hurt, that the Southampton centre forward began to successfully command his wings. Milward easily beat Abbott putt on many clever touches of play, but Wolstenholme in the later stages. The backs and keeper, considering the heavy work that devolved upon them, did very well, and had not Muir been in one of his best moods the scoring must have been more pronounced. On the Southampton side, Robinson was little troubled, and owing to the latitude allowed to the backs by the backs by the Everton forwards, they had every opportunity of displaying their defensive powers. The halfbacks are also a sturdy and capable lot, and there is a swing and dash among the forwards, which if sustained will carry them through, made a stern struggle. On the right wing Turner played a clever game, and most danger in the first part of the game came from his centre. Summing up, the ground was not in a suitable condition for a hugh class exposition of the game, which reached but a fair standard, and none could help but admit that the Southern League team thoroughly deserved to pass into the second round.

DOWNFALL OF EVERTON
Athletic News- Monday, January 29 1900
By Ants.
Shocking weather prevailed at Southampton on Saturday, and had there been much more rain play would have been seriously endangered. As it was, the spectators were nothing like so numerous as was expected, the attendance being about 10,000. The players, too, had to put up with a lot of discomfort and play on a pitch that was at times very slippery, and all through the game very heavy. The Everton team did not arrive in Southampton till shortly before the match, having broken the long journey at Winchester. The Southampton men have done their training locally, taking spins in the New Forest. Except that T. Farrell was still weak from influenza, both teams were at full strength, and looked remarkably fit, the players being;-
Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer, and Eccles, backs; Abbott, Blythe, and Wolstenholme, half-backs; Gray, Settle, Proudfoot, Taylor, and Sharp, forwards. Southampton.- Robinson, goal; Meehan, and Durber, backs; Meston, Petrie, and Chadwick, half-backs; Turner, Yates, Farrell, Wood, and Milward, forwards. Referee; A. Green, West Bromwich. Linesmen; C. Squires and H.C. Platt, London.
Everton won the toss, but what wind there was blow across the ground, and indeed was little felt in the Deep Hollow of the Dell. That there was little advantage in choice was shown by the fact that the ball almost invariably landed more than half way when kicked off from either end. Soon after the start rain began to fall, and continued for more than half an hour. From the rush up Milward almost immediately netted the ball, but was ruled offside. Of the two elevens Southampton started off smarter, and had considerably the best of matters for a time, Blythe, who received a nasty kick, but refused to retire, being the most conspicuous in Everton’s ranks. Several shots reached Muir, but none gave any difficulty. The Saints’ tactics seemed superior, the Everton forwards playing rather wildly. Settle tried a long ground shot, but Robinson easily saved. Proudfoot kicked over the bar, and at the other end Muir had great trouble with a curling shot by Turner. Southampton were distinctly pressing, and on one occasion all but scored from a free kick close up. At this stage of the game Balmer and Eccles were very active, and repeatedly saved the situation. Rain had now ceased, and for a time the sun shone out brightly, but the surface was extremely sticky, and it is a wonder the players kept their feet so well as they did. There were no pools on the ground, but a tick coating of mud in large areas made play very hard. Robinson saved a fine shot by Proudfoot, but danger seldom came near the Saints’ goal, whereas Muir was called on four times in little more than a minute to save. A skirmishing run by Everton’s left gave Proudfoot what seemed an easy chance, but he kicked wide. Towards half-time Everton began to recover, or, perhaps, to put it nicely, to gain the upper-hand, and forced two corners, but found the defence very sound, Meehan’s powerful kicks frequently landing the ball well back in their own half of the ground.
HALF-TIME CAME WITH NO SCORE
And from the improvement Everton showed in smartness and dash the game looked likely to end in their favour. Right away from the kick-off Robinson had to catch a very hot shot; then Abbott just missed by inches, and three corners fell to Everton, and the least slice of luck at this point might have entirely changed the aspect of the whole game, as it was some time before Southampton got going again. Meston opened a retaliating attack with a curling shot that Muir only just reached, but Everton, working with great determination, forced the play back. Abbott’s work at left-half being very noticeable. Proudfoot missed the opportunity of the day, as, with an open goal, in consequence of Durber slipping, he shot against the side of the net. A better directed shot would probably have meant a win for Everton. It seemed to be the turning point of the game, for after nearly half-an-hour’s play, during which the visitors had decidedly over-powered Southampton and lost several chances, the Saints began to wake up, and pushed their attacks hard. Farrell and Wood both tested Muir, and it began to look as if the Saints would have to visit the Mersey to replay, when a stroke of luck came their way. From a free kick some distance up the field, the ball landed in front of goal, and Milward clumsily but effectively diverted it inti the net. The enthusiasm displayed round the ground proved what a relief that goal was to the locals, but when from the kick-off the Saints were seen to be hanging back in the defence with an whole quarter of an hour yet to play, while Everton strove desperately to equalise, the situation began to look grave indeed. Abbott, Settle, Gray, and Taylor were conspicuous for dashing play. It was a clear case of neck or nothing with Everton, but strive as they would the ball only once reached Robinson, when he fell down with it. For a moment there was almost dead silence as the International held the ball from three or four opponents. Then it slipped out of his hands, but luckily for Southampton Durber kicked away. It was a most exciting time when the referee gave a free kick against Meehan for jumping at Taylor close up, but this attack also failed. Proudfoot, who had signally bad luck missed, by a hair’s breath, from another free kick. Then Milward and Farrell took the ball down. Milward tricked Eccles, and centring, Turner, with a steadily-aimed shot, scored a second goal. This settled the game, for there was only four minutes more to play, but in that short time the
SAINTS REVELLED IN ATTACK.
And quite ran round their opponents, and from a corner kick Milward headed the third goal close on time, Southampton winning by three to none. It was a hard-fought game, and taken all through Southampton deserved their win, but they were not three goals superior. At the same time, it must be remembered that while Muir had to save on many occasions, Robinson had very little to do. Some of Muir’s saves were lucky, but Everton missed several goals by the merest shade of the goalposts, anyone of which would probably have settled the Saints. Generally speaking, there was more speed and method in the winner’s forwards five than in their opponents, who seemed very much at sea. Settle, who is always expected to great things, did very little, Meehan being quite as fast and weighting two stone more, giving the International anything but a rosy time of it; in fact, speed did not seem to be a great point with Everton, and in striking contract was Turner’s brilliant runs on Southampton’s right and Milward’s quick work on the left. Turner, who a year ago, was a local junior, is without doubt one of the best forwards, and the cool and confident manner in which he scored his goal was worthy of a Goodall. In defence, Everton appeared to have the advantage at half, where Blythe and Abbott worked like trojan, but Southampton’s backs, Meehan and Durbar, shone in front of Eccles and Balmer, though Eccles was very sound. It was Meehan’s day out, and excepting his rather erratic kicking at times, he was in fine form. It is not unjust to Everton to express the opinion that on the day’s play Southampton were a percentage smarter, and certainly faster. Choice of ground, of course, made a great difference, probably that between defeat and the second round of the cup but as a team the Saints on no ground would be inferior to their opponents. Their victory gave intense satisfaction to Hampshire people, and it will not be easy for Everton to explain away so heavy a defeat, for the defence distinctly broke down in the last fifteen minutes.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT NOTES
The Athletic News- Monday, January 29, 1900
By the Loiterer
Of all hands the probability of our two clubs surviving the first round of the English-Cup-ties was very remote, but disaster has come where least expected. Before now the Southampton team have caused a flutter in the Competition, but on recent form Everton were thoughts quite good enough to win, let alone draw. Nowadays the advantage of playing on your own turf is considerably modified, for generally speaking, the clubs who take part in the Competition proper, carefully look after their men, and do not put them through the disadvantage of a long railway journey. In Everton’s case the men have been lounging their time away at Lytham during the week and made the journey by easy stages to Southampton. Here they met a team composed chiefly of ex-League players, men who were supposed to be too poor for any rousing game, and yet they lose by three goals to none. The defeat is complete, a stray the scoring a goal is excusable, but three goals requires a lot of explaining, and I am too old a hand to take the task. I, in common with most Liverpudlians am disappointed at the result, and, like the majority, cannot understand how such a young and vigorous lot of players such as Everton possess would accomplish so little, it must be galling to the Everton directors to know that among the number that took them down on Saturday are two ex-Evertonians and some of the others were viewed in much the same light. That these men are not done with the forcibly proves, and if they have not the specials formerly, they made up for it in some other way, do not know under what conditions the match is played, but this I do know, the prestige of the city has received a shock.

ENGLISH CUP.- FIRST ROUND
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 29 January 1900
EVERTON v.  SOUTHAMPTON
In view of their important Cup tie, the Everton players had been in strict training for the previous fortnight, staying at Lytham, where the bracing breezes from the Irish Sea are calculated to strengthen all constitutions. The team had been splendidly looked after by trainer Jack Lewis, and on Friday every man was reported fit as the proverbial fiddle. The men left Lytham at ten o’clock on Friday morning and in charge of Mr. Molyneux they travelled to Winchester, the night being spent in the ancient and historical capital of Britain. They journeyed on to Southampton on Saturday, reaching the great southern port in time for lunch. The engagement created the greatest interest in Southampton, Southampton pressing the liveliest interest in the famous northern club. The weather, though bright in the morning, clouded over towards noon and at two o’clock ran began to fall. The spectators nevertheless trooped up in large numbers, and half an hour before the start the Dell as the ground is called, was densely crowd. Everton relied upon the same team as performed so successfully against Liverpool the previous week, though Molyneux, B. Sharp, and Oldham were brought down as emergency men. The Southampton eleven despite all rumours as to influenza and they forms of sickness, turned out in full strength. Everton won the toss, and Southampton started against a slight breeze. The opening exchanges were most exciting, and the home team getting away at once on the right. Turner passed nicely, and Milward, who was lying offside, easy beat Wolstenholme, and banged the ball into the net, but the referee quite rightly disallowed the home forward’s claim. A break-away by Taylor came to nothing, and again the Southerners made ground on the left, Muir just saving a hot low shot from Yates. There was no mistaking the determination of the Saints, who kept up the attack with tremendous vigour, and for a long time the Everton defence was very sorely pressed. To make matters worse, Blythe at this point received a cut on the head, which occasioned his retirement while the doctor attended to his injury. The Southampton right wing came away with a great dash, and a centre by yates gave Milward a chance of scoring, but Muir was too sharp for him, and cleared cleverly. So far the game had been all in favour of the home team, the Everton forwards being quite unable to make headway. Blythe returned after some minutes, and was received with a great cheer. Still the home eleven monopolised the play. A neat bit of work by Abbott gave the Everton forwards possession. Taylor, Settle, and Proudfoot took the ball down, but the Everton captain’s shot went, as usual, high over the bar. The visitors were now playing up much better, and were given a free kick, from which Balmer put the ball in the net, but it did not touch a second player. Then the visiting forwards advanced in a very pretty fashion, and Settle then sent in another smart shot, but it was satisfactorily dealt with by Robinson, and once again the Saints made tracks in the direction of Muir, and a hot bombardment took place, and it was only the sterling play of the Everton custodian that prevented disaster. There was no doubt that up to this point the homesters had much the best of the argument, which greatly delighted the crowd. The venue was at length changed by Proudfoot, who ran down at top speed. He was hampered, however, by Meehan, and forced to part with the leather, which he passed to Gray, but the latter slipped just as the critical moment, and the fine opportunity was thus lost. The visitors, however, kept up the attack in spirited fashion, Robinson having to save from both Settle and Sharp. An injury to Petrie delayed the game several minutes, and after this Everton pressed strongly. Taylor, Settle and Proudfoot all trying their luck, but without success. Towards the interval play opened out considerably, both sides pressing in turn, but the defence was thoroughly sound. Half-time arrived with a clean sheet. The rain having passed off, play was resumed in bright sunshine, and before an increased attendance. Everton at once went off with great dash, and three corners were forced in rapid succession. After a prolonged attack Farrell scored for the Southerners amidst great enthusiasm. Southampton now continued to have the best of the game, Milward being prominent in the attack with good shooting. Sharp, of Everton, put in good work, but Farrell receiving, passed to Turner, who scored a second, followed by a third from Milward. Result; Southampton 3 goals, Everton nil. Teams;- Everton.- Muir, goal; Eccles and Balmer, backs; Wolstenholme, Blythe, and Abbott, half-backs; J. Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Southampton.- J.W. Robinson, goal; P. Meehan and P. Durber, backs; S. Meston, A. Chadwick, and R. Petrie, half-backs; A. Turner, Y. Yates, J. Farrell, H. Wood, and Milward, forwards.

THE ASSOCIATION CUP.- FIRST ROUND PROPER
Hampshire Advertiser - Wednesday 31 January 1900
SOUTHAMPTON BRILLIANT VICTORY
When the Saints were drawn at home against Everton in the first round of the English Cup, opinion was divided as to whether they would prove sufficiently strong to beat the Evertonians. The match, which had been eagerly awaited, was contested on Saturday afternoon, and the Southampton team did even better than their most earnest and enthusiastic supporters had anticipated. To beat a team of Everton’s standing in an English Cup tie by 3 goals to nil, would have been a remarkable performances for either of the great Northern combinations, so that the disappointment and chagrin of the Everton men can be better imagined than described when they were “knocked out” by a Southern League team. The game itself was a stubbornly contested one. In the first half the Saints’ pressed their opponents severely for twenty minutes, and were only prevented from scoring by the fine defence of the Everton backs and goalkeeper. From thence until the interval play was more even, both sides at times having anxious moments. However, at the interval nothing had been scored. In the second portion the play for the first twenty-five minutes was of a very even character, neither side being able to score. Then, however, Southampton placed a goal to their credit through a beautiful shot by Milward, and with the lead they kept up a hot attack to the finish. Nothing further was scored until the last few minutes when two points were put on by Turner and Milward. The Saints had a far larger share of the play than their opponents, and, during the opening portion, seemed able to do everything but score. This was, probably, owing to the excellent work done by Muir (the Everton goalkeeper), who played a marvellous game throughout. The shouting which welcomed the Saints’ first goal was loud and prolonged. The enthusiasm of a crowd of 10,000 spectators, who had been waiting for the Saints to score for a space of over an hour, will long be remembered by those who witnessed it. A better game could not have been seen, and certainly a more popular victory could not have been gained, than that of Saturday. The Southampton men had been trained to perfection, and we should recommend that the same course of training be adopted if the team is so lucky as to be drawn at home for the next round. We hope that, after the magnificent display of Saturday, they may emerge triumphantly from the second, third, and semi-final rounds, and, ultimately, pay a visit to the Crystal Palace, to bring the much-coveted cup down South. The trophy would be heartily welcomed.