EDGAR CHADWICK
Dundee Courier - Thursday 01 March 1900
E. Chadwick, who before leaving Everton, did much for the game in the first port of the Kingdom, is an Englishman and a Lancashire lad, having first seen the light of day at Blackburn. Before joining Everton he was a member of the Blackburn Rovers, and left just after their memorable defeat by Derby Junction in the competition for the English Cup in the 1887-8 season. He obtained the three International badges, but never played a finer game than the one against Scotland in 1891, when he was partnered on the left wing by Milward, his old companion at Everton.

DUNDEE V EVERTON
March 2 1900. The Dundee Courier and Argus.
Everton will be presented by Muir; Balmer Molyneux; Boyle, Blyth, Abbott; Sharp, Toman, Prodfoot, Settle, Gray. Dundee; Stewart; Baird, Sharp; Johnstone Longair Keillor; Low Steven, MacDonald, McDermott, McDiarmid.

DUNDEE NEWS
March 2, 1900 The Courier & Argus
Dundee have a special tit-bit at Dens Park, and there will doubtless be a splendid gathering to witness the opposition offered by Everton. The English League team arrive at the West Station at 8.40 tonight, and will thus rest overnight in Dundee. Everton will be represented by Muir; Balmer and Molyneux; Boyle, Blyth, and Abbott; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray. Dundee play the same team as met Queen's Park last week, viz.; -Stewart; Baird and Sharp; Johnstone, Longair, and Keillor; Low, Steven, MacDonald, McDermott, and McDiarmid.

EVERTON RESERVE v  GLOSSOP RESERVE
Glossop-dale Chronicle and North Derbyshire Reporter – Friday 02 March 1900
This match was played on the North Road ground on Saturday last, in fine weather, the ground being in good condition. There was a fair number of spectators, the teams lining up as follows;- Glossop.- Williams; Radcliffe, Burgess; French, Leech, Pattison; Walmsley, Marsh, W. Scarrett, L. Evans, Bennett. Everton;- Kitchen; Eccles, B. Sharp; Wolstenholme, Gordon, Murphy; Roche, Dawson, Oldham, Chadwick, Schofield.  Everton won the toss and decided to play towards the North Road goal. Scarratt kicked off, and the ball was taken to the Everton end, but was returned to the home territory, where the ball was sent behind Williams' net. From the goal kick, play again went into the enemy's quarters, midfield play subsequently taking plain. A free kick for a foul against Everton proved of no avail, and then Williams was tested by a shot from one of the opposing team, but he saved in a magnificent manner, and then some most enjoyable work wok place at the centre, resulting In the ball being taken to the Everton end, where Marsh sent behind. From the kick out the ball travelled towards Dusting, the leather eventually going behind. Williams sent well down, play being taken into the Everton territory, where Pattison seat in a shot, which Kitchen had to run out to clear. A corner kick was awarded to the homesters shortly after this, but they could not break the visiting defence, and the ball was sent behind. From the goal kick went to the Glossop end, where some most exciting play near William's citadel was indulged in, but all to no purpose, and the ball went behind. Shortly after play was transferred to the Everton end, the ball eventually travelling to midfield, where it rolled out of play. From the throw in French made a splendid pass to Walmsley, the " Toffee " men's quarters being again invaded, and, after Kitchen had kicked out, the ball was sent behind. After the goal kick some good play was witnessed, Evans sending in a splendid shot, which Kitchen just managed to save but Evans returned the leather to the Evertontenders' arms. Shortly afterwards Ratcliffe kicked high, the visitors securing, but the same player averted danger by kicking out. From the throw In, Ratcliffe kicked well down the field, after which the homesters' goal in jeopardy, and whilst Williams was in the act of saving a hot shot from Oldham, Dawson rushed and banged both the tenter and ball into the net, thus drawing first blood for the visitors. From the centre kick play for a time settled down in midfield, and by a pass from Walmsley to Scarratt play was taken to the Everton end, but shortly afterwards was transferred to the homesters’ quarters, where it seemed as if things would end disastrously for Glossop, but Williams was all there, and eventually play drifted in the direction of Kitchen’s citadel, and Walmsley kicked behind. As a result of subsequent play Leech sent in a shot which grazed the top of the crossbar, and after the goal kick the Everton men were gives offside. A foul was now given against Glossop, Williams saving in grand style from Chadwick. A corner was secured by the “Toffee" men, but they could make no use of it except that a foul was given against them. From the resulting free kick play was taken to the Evertonend, but Glossop had to fall back on their own citadel, in the vicinity of which Schofield centred, and Roche headed into  the net, scoring goal number two against Glossop. From the kick off play was takes to the Everton end, where the homesters secured a corner which proved abortive, half-time arriving shortly after with the were: Everton 2Glossop Reserve 0.
Immediately after the restart play went into the home quarters, where the visitors had the advantage of two corners, but they proved worthless, and after spirited play the ball was sent behind the Glossop net. From the goal kick a foul was given against Glossop, but nothing came of it, and the ball travelled to the Everton end, where it rolled out of play. From the throw in a foul was given against the visitors, the free kick being taken near the half-way line in the Glossop territory, where the leather had a short stay, being transferred towards North Road goal. Dawson secured, and running through all his opponents had no difficulty in testing the meshes of the Glossop net. From the kick off play ruled in favour of the visitors, and Williams strength was tested by two rasping shots, but he cleared his charge in a manner which greatly pleased the spectators. About two minutes afterwards the home tenter saved other two shots in a very praiseworthy manner. The leather then made a visit to the Everton end, and after some exciting work near Kitchen's citadel play was brought to midfield, where both teams worked hard. Eventually the ball rolled out of play, and from the throw in play was taken to the Glossop quarters,where it had but a short stay, the Glossop men taking it into their opponents' territory, where a foul was given against the "candy " representatives. From the free kick play went to midfield, and from there towards the home citadel, where Gordon sent In a shot which proved too much for Williams and lowered the Glossop colours for the fourth time. From the centre kick the ball once more found its way to the Glossop quarters, where some exciting work took place, after which Glossop had the advantage of a goal kick. This brought temporary relief to the home team, but they were soon again defending. Bennett secured, and took the ball up to the Everton end, where Eccles pulled him up and took play into his opponents' quarters, the ball eventually going out. The throw in was followed by a foul against the homesters, the ball eventually finding a resting place behind the Glossop net. From the goal kick a rush was made for the visitors' quarters, where a foul was given against them, and then Scarrett sent in a shot which Kitchen saved in a splendid manner and shortly after, time was called with the score : Everton Reserves 4 Glossop Reserve 0.

ORDINARY MATCH
Liverpool Mercury – Saturday 03 March 1900
Dundee v. Everton, Dundee. Kick off 3.30 p.m. Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Boyle, Green, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle and Gee, forwards.
Everton Combination v Leyland, Goodison Park. Kick off four p.m. Everton; Kitchen, goal; Eccles and B. Sharp, backs; Wolstenholme, H. Kitchen, and Blythe, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, McDonald, Livingstone and Chadwick, forwards.

MURMURS FROM THE MERSEY
Lancashire Evening Post – Saturday 03 March 1900
By Tom Tiddler
Everton and Liverpool should have bene getting ready for the semi-finals, ah me! Instead, the “Toffies” have arranged to play Dundee to-day, on the Banks of Alan Water, or there awa’. They get £50 guarantee, and expenses. It is always possible to swell the “exes,.” If the guarantee remains a fixed sum; hotel bills are also capable of expansion; and “pros.,” having taken a leaf out of the book of “amateurs” in these respects, can run up a bill as tall and as sudden as a bean-stalk, or a boarding house keeper. In fact, “guarantee” games are much preferable to Cup-ties; and I can heartily recommend League teams whose presence in the national competition is apt to frighten such small fry as Aston Villa and North End- teams like Liverpool, I mean, of course -to give “guarantee” games a turn. They earn their wages much more easily, for one thing. They save, for another. There are no preliminary training expenses to incur; no tempers are spoiled, no bad language is provoked, nobody loses his hair or contracts wrinkles; it is not a life-and-death struggle, but an afternoon’s amusement. The visiting team are not expected to win-it would be considered bad form if they did, and there would be no more guarantees for them in that quarter. All that is necessary is a little adroit flattery. They must lose in such a way as to save their own “faces,” and put the home team on good terms with themselves. The winners and their supporters are pleased at the result; here, they argue, is a nice chopping block to exercise our skill on; we’ll invite ‘em again. And they do.
Both teams are on the look-out for “talent” for next season. Everton yet secured any of the new artistes whom I recommended them to get for next season’s production. The title role- I meant the centre forward position-was intended for Wilson, the Clyde’s crack. Wilson is stated to have rejected the offer, because the laws, or rather the wages, did not suit. Perhaps, when he reflects how many “expenses” there are in £5 a week, he will be sorry he spoke; if he isn’t, the Scotch character must have recently undergone a strange change for the -shall I say better or worse? The fact remains that Wilson is no comin’ to Goodison Park- for the present. He may be there, though, when wanted next season.  For my part, I rather think it infra dig, for teams like Everton and Liverpool to “approach” players. They ought to be above it, and let the players salaam. To be a playing member of Liverpool and Everton is still considered an “honour.” But honours are not conferred until they are won; and Everton and Liverpool, in my opinion, are playing the thing very low by courting instead of being courted. They ought to let suitors pay their addresses. The more ceremonious the approach was made, the more eager would be the candidates, seated on a throne, with all the attribute of awe and majesty about him, Secretary Molyneux could exact homage from them; they would lick their way into his presence, up the office steps, and offer a premium for a trial, just to be given a chance in class company. I have an idea that a first-class team could be run on those lines for nothing-and pay a handsome dividend to shareholders. But cheapen the honour of the thing, run after Dick Tom, and Harry, beg them to sign on for a handsome bonus, and big wage, and what happens? Three  worthies will snub you to your face, as Lipsham and Wilson have done. I hear of various economies being practised at Goodison Park and Anfield-road. Everton have got rid of their band. They are one of the few football clubs that patronise a band; and I have always credited them with a good intention, and a sense of the aesthetic not altogether smothered by the gross materialism of gain. But I am not sorry that band is going, for Hudson’s dry soap-I ought to say Hudson’s band-has many a time harrowed my sad soul with its doleful dirges. The players ae blamed for losing matches. Are they alone to blame? Does no blame attach to the band? I shall watch the remainder of the season with particularly close attention, to verify an idea I have that the band is at the bottom of all the mischief. But a good band of music-what greater inspirer of doughty deeds could you have than a really good band? Soldiers on the march-they forget all their wariness when the band begins to play. And in battle- how are the cowards nerved, even the brave fortified by the band-a piece of ball-metal often turns defeat into victory. And a really good band, I repeat, ought to be a valuable auxiliary in a football match, which in so many respects resembles a battle- only fiercer and bloodier. A really good band might be more potent than a referee. The possibilities are there- how to utilise them? At present the band plays before the match begins, and at the interval. These are quite the least important phases of the contest. The crises during actual play, and I am convinced that a band in close touch with the game might render the assistance of more than the twelfth man to the home side. It could encourage them with a flourish when things were going badly; or it could discourage the triumphant enemy by a horrid discord when he is about to take a corner kick. Scores o melodies suggest themselves as specially adapted to every movement in a football match; as if the composer had the game in his eye when he dotted down the crotchets. I make a present of the idea to football clubs, and know of no rule of the English Football Association which forbids them to make the most of it.

DUNDEE 0 EVERTON 2
March 5 1900. The Liverpool Courier
Everton, perhaps the most famous visiting team to Scotland appeared on Saturday at Denspark, Dundee. The weather was beautifully fine, and there would be 8,000 spectators present when McDonald set the game going for the local team, the following being the teams: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Molyneux backs Boyle Green, and Abbott halfbacks Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gee, forwards. Dundee: - Srewart, goal, Baird, and Sharp backs Johnston, Longmuir and Keiller, halfbacks, Low, Steven, McDonald McDermott (t), and McDiarmid, forwards. The ground was soft on the surface, but in the opening the Dundonians exhibited clever combination and tried Muir severely. They kept up a hot pressure, and it was not until Gee and Settle got away in a clever combined dribble that the pressure was relieved. The tricky play of the Liverpool forwards was much admired, but just as the crowning point looked likely Proudfoot shot hugh over the bar. Low and Steven from the kick out got well down the field, but the referee pulled up McDonald when the ball was sent into the goalmouth on the plea of offside. Play was very fast for a friendly, the local lads answering the calls of their supporters to back up. Dundee were now having much of the best of the play, and Muir repelled several very tight messages. A foul close in gave Everton a chance, but after lobbing from head to head the ball dropped over on the wrong side so far as the Englishmen were concerned. Roused by the narrow escapes Dundee led by Low and Steven made for the other end, but the attack was lost by teckless shooting on the part of McDonald. A foul close in to Dundee enhanced their prospects, but it also was fruitless, Balmer with a lengthy punt clearing. Nearing the interval the Dundonians returned to the aggressive. All that prevailed they efforts was a fruitless corner and half time arrived with neither side having scored half time Everton nil, Dundee nil. Final Result Everton 2 Dundee nil.

FOOTBALL NOTES
March 5 1900. The Dundee Courier and Argus.
After such brilliant work in the West, it was generally anticipated that the friendly game at Den Park between Everton and Dundee would prove one of the attractions of the afternoon. To Dundee people, however, the anticipation was never realised, as after the first thirty minutes the home team simply lay down, and from thence to the end Everton were fairly masters of the situation. As a team the visitors gave a good exhibition of football. The two backs tackling an punted grandly, while Boyle at half appears to be as lively as ever, and held the opposing left well in check. It was forward, however that Everton most took the eye, Sharp at outside right and Settle at inside left carrying off the palm. The former has a good turn of speed, and once on the move was always dangerous, while Settle although not so prominent, was always anxious and seldom threw away a chance. Muir gave a good exhibition of goalkeeping but in one occasion at least he should have been beaten. As to the home team it must be said they opened in great style, and the opening stages fairly brought off the merits of Low and Steven. Low never did better, and his passing, and shooting left little to be desired, while his usual timidity was marked by its absence. This welcome change will, we hope, be kept up one good wing, however, cannot do all the work, and as the other three failed he rise to their occasion, it is small wonder that the right wing was too closely watched to be effective in the second portion.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 LEYLAND 1
March 5 1900. The Liverpool Courier
The first match of the season between these clubs was played at Goodison Park on Saturday. McDonald kicked off, the visitors having only nine men. Brown pulled up Chadwick when the Everton men were making a promising move, and Sharp similarly dealt with an attack by the visitor's front rank. Even play followed, and then after ten minutes play the visitors had their full strength. The visitor's attempts to get away were negative by the clever work of the Everton halfbacks. Play quietened down considerably, nether side making headway. Everton were first to be dangerous, Chadwick forcing a corner, which was sent over the line. Leyland replied with a rush on the left, and gained a free kick without success. Everton livened up towards the interval. McDonald putting in clever work, and a good shot from Roche almost beat Bennett. A little after the same player sent behind. Half time Everton nil, Leyland nil. Final Everton 1 Leyland 1. Everton: - Ki8tchen, goal, Eccles, and Sharp backs, Wolstenholmes, Kitchen (h) and Blythe, halfbacks Roche, Dawson, McDonald, Livingstone and Chadwick (a), forwards.

LIVERPOOL DISTRICT NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 05 March 1900
By The Loiterer
At Goodison park, Leyland made a good show against Everton Reserve, and had the satisfaction of taking a point away with them, the game resulting in a draw of one goal each. Everton tried two new men, Livingstone, forward, and H. Kitchen (a brother of the goalkeeper) at centre-half, but neither did anything startling. At the start Leyland had but nine men, but with their full complement on they showed some grit. The first half was a blank as regards scoring. Everton had much the best of it, but they appeared to make the fatal mistake that goals were bound to come scorer or later, and consequently didn’t put themselves about much. But when the visitors, through Platt, got a goal one minute after resuming they woke up to the situation and hustled round. The Leyland goal was subjected to a terrific bombardment, but Bennett showed exceptionally fine form. At one time it looked as if the “Blues” had started too late, but eventually the ball was rushed through from a corner and the game saved. Had Everton played half as well in the first half there could have been no doubt as to the ultimate result.

ORDINARY GAME
Liverpool Mercury – Monday 05 March 1900
EVERTON v.  DUNDEE
Everton, having an off day, made the journey to Dundee to engage in a friendly with the Scottish Leaguers. In capital weather, and before an attendance of some 8000 spectators, the sides lined up as follow;- Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Boyle, Green, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle and Gee, forwards. Dundee; Stewart, goal; Baird, and Sharp, backs; Johnston, Longmuir, and Kieller, half-backs; Low, Steven, McDonald, McDermott, and McDiarmid, forwards. The opening play was of a fairly even character, some capital work being effected by the Everton left wing pair, but they invariably met with stout opposition from Baird and Stewart. Proudfoot eventually had a chance, but shot high, and, following a movement to the other end, McDonald shot against the bar. The Everton forwards again returned to the attack, and for some time monopolised the bulk of the play, but could not find an opening to score. At half-time no tangible point had resulted to either side, but, on turning round, the visitors, by their excellent combined play, showed early indications of taking the lead. The smart passing of the forwards was greatly admired, and ere the game closed a couple of goals had been recorded against Stewart, while the home side failed to score; Result- Everton 2 goals, Dundee nil.

FRIENDLY IN EVERY WAY
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Monday 05 March 1900
The Dundee-Everton match at Dens Park was friendly in every sense of the word. It was a good, interesting game, still it lacked the enthusiasm of a League engagement. Had the gaining or losing of a couple of points been involved, there is no doubt but that more vim would have been introduced. Realising that nothing save reputation was at stake, the players were at times inclined to take matters easily, and hang more tenaciously to the ball than would have been the case had the issue been important. Taken as a whole, Everton were the better team, and deserved at last a goal victory, Dundee being full value for a point.
WEAK FINISHING LOSES THE MATCH.
It was the forwards who alone contributed to Dundee's downfall. There was comparison between the quintettes when nearing goalmouth. To shoot straight appeared beyond the capabilities of the home lot, of whom Macdonald was the greatest sinner. McDiarmid as well as his partner have done better. Little fault could be found with the right wing. Speed has long been recognised as the feature of English football. The Evertonians are no exception to the rule. Proudfoot & Co, can cover ground rapidly. Sharp, however, is a sprinter of no mean ability, as Keillor repeatedly found to his cost. WATCHING SETTLE
It was in the play Settle, the Internationalist, that Dundee folks were most interested. There is a general opinion that he will again be capped against Scotland. He was thus the observed of all observers. During the greater part of the game he did nothing brilliant, due principallyto the effectiveness of Johnstone and Longair. Latterly however, he blossomed forth, and gave Stewart in rapid succession as hard a couple of shots clear as has been the custodian's lot since he took up his quarters with Dundee.
THE DEFENCE WAS EQUAL.
With the exception of forward, Dundee's team compared very favourably with their opponents. There was an equality seldom witnessed. The backs were all-powerful. After the first five minutes Baird was as strong as any of the others. Sharp had a big handful in his namesake, still with the assistance of Keillor, he held him well in check. The feature of the game was Johnstone's display at half-back. Although all three did remarkably well yet the honours of the day fall to the right half. WATSON GOES TO EVERTON.
The match was in every way a success for Everton. Not only did they get more than the guarantee sum, which, by the way, was £60, but they succeeded “signing-on" one of Dundee's reserves. Watson, who was secured from New Brompton at the beginning of the season, and was subsequently superseded by Baid at back, is now to take up his quarters at Liverpool. Although a player of considerable ability Watson never caught on in Dundee. With New Brompton, however, he was a tower of strength and his masters regretted his departure. With Everton to whom he goes on a month's trial, it is hoped he will be more successful than he was in Dundee. Who knows but that Mr Molyneux, the Everton Secretary, may have been much struck by the display of some of the Dundee players, a back, in particular. We may in the near future hear of some further negotiations between the Clubs. Another well-known English Chib, said to be Sheffield United, would not be averse to availing themselves of the services of Sharp. Dundee would be well advised to make strenuous endeavours to keep the ex-East Craigie youth, for if he continues improving as present, he is one of the coming defenders.

EVERTON v. SUNDERLAND
Liverpool Daily Post – Friday 09 March 1900
The return League match between these two clubs is due to be played at Goodison Park tomorrow, when the kick-off is fixed for 4 o’clock. It will be remembered that on the occasion fo Everton’s visit to Roker Park in November last the home team gained the verdict by 1 goal to nil three minutes from time, after one of the best and keenest struggles ever witnessed between the two teams. It is only natural that the interest in the return game will be very keen as Sunderland always prove a great attraction in Liverpool, added to which is the fact that the Blues and Whites have not been seen in a League engagement since January 20th when they defeated Liverpool by 3 goals to 1. The following team has been selected to represent Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards.
EVERTON COMBIANTION  v  LEYLAND
In this Lancashire Combination match at Leyland tomorrow, the following team will play for Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Eccles, and B. Sharp, backs; Gordon, Green and Blythe, half-backs; Roche, Oldham, McDonald, Chadwick and Gee, forwards. The train leaves Exchange Station at 1.35 Kick-off at 3.30.

FIXTURES FOR THIS DAY
Liverpool Mercury – Saturday 10 March 1900
After a period extending over six weeks, the Everton team, which has in the meantime been performing on foreign territory in friendly and League fixtures, will once more make its appearance at Goodison Park in a serious fixture. No better team than Sunderland could have been chosen to draw the crowd, for the Wearsiders invariably play a hard game when in this locality, and it will doubtless be remembered that they have defeated Liverpool twice this season, and vanquished Everton at Roker. If Everton mean to equalise matters they will have to show their “away” form, and in view of their moderate position in the table a victory would be warmly welcomed.
Everton v Sunderland, Goodison Park- Referee A Scragg; linesmen, H.S. Cartmel and C Fallowfield.
Everton’ Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Sunderland;- Doig, goal; McCombie and McNeill, backs; Ferguson, McAllister, and Raisbeck, half-backs; Crawford, Leslie, W. Hogg, Fulton, and McLatchie, forwards.
Lancashire Combination
Leyland v Everton Combination, Leyland. Train Exchange Station 1.35. Kick-off 3.30 p.m.
Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Eccles and B. Sharp, backs; Gordon, Green, and Blythe, half-backs; Roche, Oldham, McDonald, Chadwick, and Gee, forwards.

EVERTON v  SUNDERLAND
Liverpool Echo –Saturday 10 March 1900
EVERTON LEAD AT THE INTERVAL
After an absence of no less than seven weeks from serious football at Goodison Park, Everton reappeared at there classic enclosure this afternoon to oppose Sunderland in the League tournament, this being the return engagement. The day was magnificently fine and as the Wearsiders are prime favourites in Liverpool a good crowd presented themselves. A hearty welcome was accorded to both teams when they stepped in and it was discovered that Wolstenholme was unable to appear. Blythe replacing him, Molyneux being at back. The Wearsiders were strongly represented and turned out as announced. The full teams faced as follows in the presence of 15,000 spectators. Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer, Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, right wing; Proudfoot, Settle, Gray, left wing. Sunderland; Doig, goal; McCombie, McNeil, backs; Ferguson, McAllister, Raisbeck, half-backs; Crawford, Leslie, right wing; W. Hood; Fulton, McLatchie, left wing. Skipper Taylor won the toss, and set his opponents to play with a strong breeze blowing against them. The preliminary moves showed great promise of a keen game, Blythe being particularly busy. Leslie at length bored his way in, and passed to Crawford, who found his advance barred by Molyneux. Then the home contingent took on the running and they found openings on either wing but neither of the shots took effect. Taylor made another attempted but the Wearsiders were very keen and succeeded in stalling off every effort. A sudden burst was then made by Sunderland and from very short range Hogg had a chance but missed by inches. From the goal kick supplemented by a free kick, Everton made progress towards Doig but the defence of the Northerner prevented them from becoming really dangerous. However, Everton kept pegging away with dogged persistency and after a hot bombardment Everton confidently claimed for a penalty kick, but after consultation with the linesmen the referee only conceded a free kick. This was well placed, Blythe transferred to Taylor, who made a good though futile bid for goal. For some little time after this play was evenly contested in midfield, neither side being able to claim any distinct advantage. Following this the play became very hotly contested, Sunderland getting to close quarters, where Hogg shot in Muir’s hands. A return move was commenced by the home right, but one of the players was pulled up on account of some informality, and from the free kick, the Sunderland right made headway, but when the punch came, Crawford was well out paced and beaten by Molyneux. The next moment Leslie tested Muir with a sweet shot, which the Everton managed to get at and punch away. The visitors tried their hand once more, but on this occasion they failed to do justice to themselves. A splendidly-executed bit of work between Gray, Settle and Proudfoot, should have ended in a score, but the opposing backs were too smart, McCombie clearing when the odds were all against him. Everton, however, were by no means disconcerted, and for some time kept up a terrific pressure on the Sunderland goal, Boyle, Taylor and Proudfoot each in turn vainly trying to lower Doig’s colours. A pretty sequence of passing amongst the home forwards was spoiled by Gray being given offside following which Sunderland got away on the left wing. McLatchie centring finely to Hogg, but Muir fisted away. Sunderland pressing for a time without result. Amid one of “Play up,” Everton!” a move was made down the home right, which was quickly checked. The ball was sent across where Crawford became but saved the situation. The Everton men had another dash down and Proudfoot raced through his men, but McNeill fell back and saved his side. Settle then came into possession and threatened his way through to the opposite wing, where he gained a corner, which proved of no use. However, the home players returned to the attack which was principally carried out by the left wingers. Gray shot in very hard. Blythe also had a pop as also had Taylor, but neither of the efforts succeeded. A lovely sequences of passing on the part of Proudfoot, Toman and Taylor looked ominous for the visitors, but the only result was an abortive corner. After Sunderland had made heroic attempts to break away, during which Balmer rendered excellent service to the home contingent, Proudfoot came into possession, making a most heroic attempt to beat the ever vigilant Doig, his shot going a trifle wide. A powerful kick on the part of Balmer kept Everton still on the attack, which they kept up for some time. At length Settle was working his way through when he was fouled, and the free kick causing much uneasiness to the Sunderland defenders. The ball was constantly driven in and out of goal, bit at last Toman. Safely netted the sphere after thirty-five minutes, play. Very shortly after the restart, the home side pressed their opponents, Proudfoot finishing a strong move by sending the ball high over the bar. Coming down again, the left wingers gained a further corner, which was easily disposed of. The Wearsiders then took up an aggressive attitude, but Balmer proved himself one too many for McLatchie and Fulton. A fine move was then made by Settle, Gray, and Toman, the result being a grand shot from Gray, which Doig fisted away, the return being met by Toman, who made a great effort, but got too much under the ball, which was sent flying over the crossbar. Everton were again making track’s on Doig’s end, when McAllister deliberately handled, the result being a free kick to the ”Blues” without anything of a substantial nature accruing. As the interval drew near Sunderland made strenuous efforts to equalise. McLatchie failing when in a good portion. Half-time score Everton 1 Sunderland nil. Final Result Everton 1 goal Sunderland nil.

EVERTON 1 SUNDERLAND 0
March 12 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
After an absence of several weeks the Everton team resumed their League engagements on Saturday last. The weather was delightful, and it was somewhat disappointing to find that the attendance did not exceed 16,000, especially so, as the Wearsides have hitherto been in good drawing team in the district. Strong sides were put in the field as will be seen from the following list of players: - Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer and Moyneux backs Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott halfbacks, Taylor (captain), Toman, Proudfoot Settle, and Gray, forwards. Sunderland: - Doig goal, McCrombie and McNeill backs, Ferguson McAllister, and Raisebeck, halfbacks, Crawford, Leaslie, Hogg, Fulton, and Latchie, forwards. The Everton team, having the sun at their backs, had by far the better of the opening play but failed to get in a parting shot, so fine was the defence of the Wearside near division. Abbott eventually put in a clever one, which was luckily headed out by McCombie. The visitor's right retaliated in strong fashion, only to be ably met by Molyneux, but returning against Crawford troubled Muir, who twice saved in clever fashion. Taylor made play on the home right, finishing up with a shot that skimmed the bar, and a moment later Settle looked like getting through when McCombie unfairly pulled him up. The free kick was of no avail, and once again the Sunderland forwards were in close proximity to Muir, who was twice called upon by Hogg and Leslie. At the other end Settle forced a corner, from Which the sane player headed splendidly to the net, when Doig brought off one of his characteristic saves, only to find Proudfoot race between the backs with the goal, at his mercy. The Everton centre however, was very faulty with the finishing touches, and following another attack by sunderland, a stiff tussle ensued in front of the visitors goal, Toman putting through amidst great excitement. Nothing further was record upto half time, when the score stood Everton 1 goal, Sunderland nil. The second half opened with Everton leading on a strong attack, but as before chances to score were allowed to go begging, Taylor, Toman and latter on Settle who had only Doig to beat, missing the mark badly. A few minutes later Hogg was in hot pursuit with the ball, only to be beaten by Muir, who had run out to save his charge. Gray then made tracks for the visitor's goal, and put in a fine cross to Taylor, who found an opening for Proudfoot, but the latter made a poor attempt to score. It was only on odd occasions that the Wearsiders gave much trouble to Muir, as more of the play was confined to well within the visitors half. The home forwards could do almost anything, but find the net several easy chances of scoring being missed in unaccountable fashion. Proudfoot was a delinquent on two occasions and the Wearsiders profitting by their repeated escape made big efforts to equalise, but could exact no quarter from Balmer and Molyneux. Up to the close, play was in favour of Everton, who won by a goal to nil.

LEYLAND 0 EVERTON RESERVES 2
March 12 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
At Leyland. Play commenced 30 minutes late owing to the referee missing his train. The visitors at the start, Gee scoring in two minutes. Leyland gained two corners, Hutchinson putting over the bar at the second attempt. Everton subsequently had the best of matters and Oldham, with a run half the length of the field, Scored. The Leyland custodian was now kept busy saving shots from Gee, and Chadwick, and McDonald in quick succession. Half time Everton 2 goals Leyland nil. On resuming the visitor's right was soon Busy, Bennett saving a shot at full length from Oldham. Smart play by Hutchinson and kenworthy threatened the visitor's goal, but Eccles however, relieved at the expense of a corner. Leyland were pressing when the whistle blew, and Everton won by 2 goals to nil.(Game 24) Everton: - Kitchen goal, Eccles, and Sharp backs Gordon green, and Blythe halfbacks, Roche, Oldham, McDonald, Chadwick (a), and Gee, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 12 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
After weeks of waiting a League game has once more been witnessed at Goodison Park. The last occasion on which Everton were engaged in the search of points on the enclosure was in the historic struggle with their neighbours from across the park, on January 20 th . The following week their esparartions regarding the English Cup were ruthlessly shattered down south and from that time to Saturday last they have been wandering far and wide, having even ventured within the confines of Ireland and Scotland. Their League engagements in the meantime have not exactly added to their renown. The home campaign was re-opened by a visit from the Sunderland eleven, but though the day was gloriously fine, there would not be more than 15,000 persons present, and the receipts fell much below what had been anticipated. So did the play, and a heavy limbering sort of the game ended in favour of Everton by the narrowest possible margin. The struggle lay between the respective back divisions, which were most evenly balanced, and the attacking forces on both sides were rarely able to overcome the opposing defence. Despite the stubborn character of the resistance offered by the Sunderland halves and backs, the Everton front rank succeeded in making several splendid openings, but in front of goal they seemed to lose all idea of the location of the net, and shot anywhere but in the right direction. Some perfect chances were mulled by inaccuracy near Doig notably when Proudfoot in the second half received a daft pass from Taylor, which left the centre forward with only the custodian to overcome. This was but a repetition of what occurred in the initial moiety when the same player, afterracing through all opposition to within five yards of the Sunderlansd custodian banged the ball against the net, whilst just as the whistle blew for the cessation of hostilities Settle rushed in, and made a woeful attempt to increase the lead, held by the side, by sending across the goalmouth. Other openings there were though perhaps, not so patent but herein lay the great weakness of the side namely, their inability to utilise the opportunities in front of goal, which had in many cases been produced by sterling play in midfield. The Everton forwards were not by any means upto the standard, which one could have desired, and weakness was evident on the extreme wings. Gray appeared to have lost all his cleverness and could make but little headway against the stronger tactics of the opposing backs; though towards the close he improved somewhat. The reminder played a busting sort of game, without accomplishing anything particularly attractive, the inside men, perhaps being the most prominent and both Settle and Toman departed from their customary lethargic methods. The half backs were the best represented by Abbott, whose weight served him in good stead against the sturdy rushes of the Northerners and it was probably this physical inferiority which rendered the display of Blythe much less effective than usual. The Wearsiders were a determined set, and their vigorous tactics required some solid resistance to hold them in check. Further behind, Balmer gave a downright clever exhibition, never failing in his returns, and holding the Sunderland left wing completely under control. Molyneux had a big task on hand to restrain the tenacity and impetuosity of Crawford and Leslie, but became out of the ordeal with credit. In fact the Everton defence was exceptionally sound all round, and in the last line, Muir proved equal to everything that came his way. He had a few awkward items to deal with, but his chief performance was when he ran out, and dispossessed the Sunderlansd centre, who had otherwise a rear course in goal. With regard to the visitors a similar state of affairs prevailed to what was witnessed on the home side. The full backs kicked strongly, and tackled fearlessly, whilst Doig launched forth with his powerful left arm, repelling all intrusive shots. The halfbacks division was a sturdy combination, and clever withal, but the forwards were not so effective the right wing being the most dangerous portion of their attack. The game was a hard fought struggle, rather than a brilliantly passage at arms, and the even character of the respective combatant is demonstrated by the narrow margin by which Everton achieved the victory.

EVERTON WIN A HARD GAME
Athletic News - Monday 12 March 1900
By The Loiterer
For the first time since January 20 the Everton team disported themselves at Goodison Park in a League fixture, a most attractive draw in the shape of a visit from the Wearsiders being the bill of fare provided for the occasion. In the meantime, owing to an awkward little incident in the first round of the English Cup ties at Southampton, they have travelled far and wide, on those days, which when the season’s fixtures were decided, had been left vacant for their anticipated triumphal progress in the National tourney. At one time they were demonstrating their skill on the banks of the Tay, whilst at another they made the acquaintance of the distillerists of Belfast. No wonder, then, that after their wide and varied travellings a large crowd assembled to greet the Wearsiders, and the day being gloriously fine, redolent of Spring, and a keen opposition waiting to be tackled on the field, the hopes of the spectators were at high-water mark. The assemblage numbered about 15,000 when Referee Scragg merged to take in hand the following combatants.-
Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Sunderland;- Doig, goal; McCombie and McNeill, backs; Ferguson, McAllister, and Raisbeck, half-backs; Crawford, Leslie, W. Hogg, Fulton, and McLatchie, forwards. Sunderland commenced operation in the face of a bright sunshine, and Everton were early dangerous, but their final efforts lacked sting, and many clever sequences in midfield were rendered abortive by weakness in front of goal. They had numerous chances of scoring, but every attempt failed until the first half had almost run its course when, from a free kick, Balmer placed the ball nicely in front of goal, and after Settle had made an attempt to beat Doig, the ball came to Toman, who managed to divert the leather past the custodian, who had no chance of clearing. This, as after events turned out, proved to be the
ONLY GOAL OF THE MATCH
But the Everton forwards have only themselves to blame, that their victory was not one of greater dimensions. The Wearsiders, however, were very smart on the ball, but they met with a sound defence, and despite the strenuous endeavours of the visitors’ backs, Everton should have obtained more than the one goal. On one occasion Proudfoot received a pass from Taylor after Gray had centred nicely, and the only opposition remaining was Doig, but the Everton centre made a wretched attempt to place his side further ahead. Just on time, Settle got clean through the backs, but Doig ran out and succeeded in saving his charge by diverting the former’s shot. There was little to choose between the teams, and both sets of forwards were weak in front of goal. In midfield was witnessed an abundance of really clever exchanges, but whatever was attempted was almost invariably checked by the respective full-backs, who presented a defence which was vastly superior to the well-meant efforts of the attacking force. Despite this sound work of the Sunderland defenders, Everton secured openings which should have been more successfully utilised, and perfect chances of scoring were nullified by inaccurate shooting. As a whole, the game was one which demonstrated more the efficiency of the backs than the forwards, the successful employment of defence over attack, and while the smart work in neutral territory was in many instances of a superior character, the great object, the achievement of goals was not forthcoming. The Everton front rank did not act in harmony.
WEAKNESS ON THE OUTSIDE WINGS
Being chiefly apparent, whilst the inside men could not gauge the dimensions of the goal supports. The visitors front line was on a par with that of the home side, the most dangerous part of their attack generating from movements on the right wing, where Crawford showed such persistence and tenacity that would have upset a less capable defender than Molyneux. In speaking of the backs one is able to bestow unstinted praise. The comparatively light weights on the Everton side were equally as clever and efficient as their more bulky opponents from the Wearside, and there was nothing to choose between the four as regards superiority in dealing with every advance. The Sunderland trio of halves were a vigorous body, but in this particular branch, Abbott, the Everton left half had no superior. He had to face the most efficient part of the Sunderland front rank, and rarely did he allow himself to be beaten. Boyle did well in the centre, but Blythe was not in a happy mood, and Balmer had often to come to the rescue. The last line of defence acted finely, and it was unfortunate for Doig that owing to the crowd in the goal month he had no chance of stopping the only shot that beat him. it was a hard fought battle, and the Sunderland team fully sustained their reputation for offering a stubborn resistance when in this locality.

EVERTON v  SUNDERLAND
Liverpool Daily Post – Monday 12 March 1900
After an absence of no less than seven weeks from serious football at Goodison Park, Everton reappeared at their classic enclosure on Saturday afternoon to oppose Sunderland. A hearty welcome was accorded to both teams when they stepped out, and it was discovered that Wolstenholme was unable to appear, Blythe displacing him, Molyneux being at back. The Wearsiders were strongly represented and turned out as announced. There were about 15,000 spectators present. Skipper Taylor won the toss and set his opponents to play with a strong breeze blow against them. The preliminary moves showed great promise of a keen game, Blythe being particularly busy. A sudden burst was made by Sunderland, and from very short range Hogg had a chance, but missed -by inches. From the goal kick, supplemented by a free kick, Everton made progress towards Doig, but the defence of the Northerners prevented them from becoming really dangerous. However, Everton kept pegging away with dogged persistency, and after a hot bombardment they confidently claimed for a penalty kick, but after consultation with the linesmen the referee only conceded a free kick. This was well placed, Blythe transferring to Taylor, who made a good though futile bid for goal. For some little time after this play was evenly contested in midfield, neither side being able to claim any distinct advantage. Following this the play became very hotly contested. A splendidly-executed bit of work between Gray, Settle, and Proudfoot should have ended in a score, but the opposing backs were too smart, McCombie clearing when the odds were all against him. Everton, however, were by no means disconcerted, and for some time kept up a terrific pressure on the Sunderland goal, Boyle, Taylor and Proudfoot each in turn vainly trying to lower Doig’s colours. The Everton men had a dash down, and Proudfoot raced through his men, but McNeill fell back and saved his side. Settle then came into possession, and threaded his way through to the opposite wing, where he gained a corner, which proved of no use. A lovely sequence of passing on the part of Proudfoot, Toman, and Taylor looked ominous for the visitors, but the only result was an abortive corner. After Sunderland had made heroic attempts to break away during which Balmer rendered excellent service to the home contingent, Proudfoot came into possession, making a most heroic attempt to beat the ever-vigilant Doig, his shot going a trifle wide. A powerful kick on the part of Balmer kept Everton still on the attack, which they kept up for some time. At length Settle was working his way through when he was fouled, and the free kick causing much uneasiness to the Sunderland defenders. The ball was constantly driven in and out of goal, but at last Toman safely netted the sphere after about thirty-five minutes’ play. Very shortly after the restart, the home side pressed their opponents, Proudfoot finishing a strong move by sending the ball high over the bar. Coming down again, the left wingers gained a further corner, which was easily disposed of. The Wearsiders then took up an aggressive attitude, but Balmer proved himself one too many for McLatchie and Fulton. As the interval drew near Sunderland made strenuous efforts to equalise, McLatchie failing when in a good position. Half-time score Everton 1 goal, Sunderland nil. Everton restarted in splendid fashion, but Taylor and Toman in turn shot wide, whilst Settle was likewise faulty with only Doig to beat. Smart work by Crawford gave Sunderland a corner, but Everton were quickly attacking again, and Proudfoot narrowly missed scoring from a corner. Sunderland burst away, but Muir ran out and beat Hogg. Eventually Gray rounded Ferguson, and from his centre Taylor passed to Proudfoot, who made a feeble attempt to score. Sunderland made several incursions into the home territory, but could make no impression on the sterling defence of Balmer and Molyneux and Everton quickly took up the attack. Their forwards secured and by clever, combined play had numerous openings, but the shooting was erratic, though an overhead attempt by Toman was only cleared with difficulty. Everton held the upper hand to the finish, and in the very last moment of the game Settle missed with an open goal in front of him. Result; Everton 1 goal, Sunderland nil. Teams;- Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Sunderland;- Doig, goal; McCombie, and McNeill, backs; Crawford, Leslie, W. Hogg, Fulton, and McLatchie, forwards.

SUNDERLAND v  EVERTON
Sunderland Daily Echo- Monday, March 12 1900
VICTORY OF EVERTON
These teams met at the Everton ground, on Saturday, in a return League fixture. On thefirst  occasion of the teams meeting Sunderland won by a  goal to nothing. The teams were follows: Sunderland: Goal, Doig; backs, McCombie and McNeill ; half-backs, Ferguson, McAllister, and Raisbeck; forwards, Crawford, Leslie, Hogg, Fulton, and McLatchie. Everton : Goal, Muir ; backs, Balmer and Molyneaux; half-backs, Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott; forwards, Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray. Referee —Mr A. Scragg (Crewe). Linesmen—Messrs Stanway and Bellamy.
THE GAME.
Sunderland arrived early on Friday night, and put up the Star and Garter, usual. This was a wise precaution, gave the players the needed rest after the long journey. Everton's only alteration was the substitution of Blythe for Wolstenholme at right half-back. There was an extremely good gate in anticipation Sunderland's visit. Indeed, they are the favourite visitors at Goodison Park, and Hudson's band was especially engaged to wile away the weary moments pending the entry of the teams.  Mr Scragg was referee, and lined up the opposing sides prompt to time. Everton won the toss. Hogg taking a gentle kick to Fulton they made an invasion towards Muir, but Boyle quickly transferred past the centre, where McAllister, coming into possession, sent forward, but a free kick for offside gave the homesters-
A BRILLIANT OPPORTUNITY,
Blythe making a grand effort, which was splendidly saved by McCombie. It was quite evident the visitors did not intend to allow their colours to be lowered if good defence had anything to do with it. Re-starting, Proudfoot was rather slow in meeting the leather, and Sunderland went for the home goal, but Everton were for the fully alert, and a stiff tussle took place. Blythe eventually got away, and, being tackled by Crawford, kicked feebly over the touch line. Everton kept Sunderland-
PENNED IN,
and a free kick ensued, mainly through the fault of Settle. The comer was well taken, and Blythe receiving, hooked over the bar, greatly to the disappointment of the crowd. Boyle had look in, and sent in a flying shot, which Doig received and kicked out. Sunderland then made an ingress to home territory and besieged the citadel, the relief coming from a free kick, which Molyneaux placed near the line. R
SOME SMART PLAY
followed, the visitors getting the best of matters. Eventually McAllister managed to get the ball at his feet, and with a flying shot went for Muir, but the leather fell wide the mark. Everton now brought up their forces and tackled well, but the defence was impregnable, Doig, McNeil, and McCombie beingsimply immense. Aftera spell midfield play Toman tried a long but unsuccessful shot at Doig, and subsequently Proudfoot tried the same game, but without avail. Fulton carried play towards Muir, while Hogg, following up judiciously, was in a position for the final effort. The result was abortive, as McNeill sent them to the right-about with
PRODIGIOUS EFFORT.
Everton, as usual when they meet foemen worthy of their steel, played accordingly, and the game was followed with zest. Proudfoot again essayed to lower Doig’s post, and the same player had another race with McNeill, getting the best of it, and sending over. Once again he dodged two opponents, and sent in. Another well meant-shot however, met with the same fate. A regular melee took place in the Sunderland goal mouth, but
CAME WITH OFF WITH FLYING COLOURS.
Grey had a splendid chance to open the scoring right within a yard of goal, but headed over. McLatchie ran the goal kick smartly down past midfield, but the homesters returned to the charge, Doig having a few anxious moments. His backs, however, changed the veuve, but a free kick for offside play put Everton into possession again, the right wing, getting into their stride, passed down the field rapidly, passing to Proudfoot, who-
FAILED AT THE CRUCIAL MOMENT.
Toman, Settle, and Taylor were very prominent in front of goal, and their chances appeared rosy in the extreme, the last-named player making a grand attempt in the midst, of much opposition. After repeated trials and severe reverses Everton again pressed hard, the result coming afterwards by a beautiful pass from Taylor on the right wing to his partner Toman, who took first blood for the home team. Everton were back in front of Sunderland's champion within a minute or so of the restart, but McCombie relieved the position, and the Northerners thrice unsuccessfully troubled Muir from distance. Both sides while playing sterling football, and there was little to choose between them. Play steadied down somewhat. Doig fisted out with difficulty, and Toman sent over, afterwards only just missing. Half-time came with the score Everton 1 goal Sunderland Nil
On commencing the second half, Proudfoot initiated a good movement, which was participated in by Toman and Settle, the inside right having a shot at goal, but the ball missed its mark. kicked out, Leslie and Crawford aiding its onward course.
BOYLE STEPPED INTO THE BREACH,
and a smart fusillade followed, Settle and Toman doing the work while Taylor lay in waiting. The old veteran goalkeeper, alert as ever, kept the Sunderlandgoal free when it appeared impossible to do so, thereby maintaining his undoubted reputation in this district. There was a fine movement by Crawford, who gave to his chum, Leslie, but only a barren corner resulted. The game was repeatedly in the visitors' quarters, and it must be said that but for McNeill, McCombie, and Doig, their success would have been assured. A loud shout proclaimed that the home team had obtained a corner, and a great effort was made to increase the point already to their credit, but McCombie rushed in and saved the position. Balmer mulled the kick again, letting in Sunderland, who faced Muir like one man, but the Evertonian received Raisbeck's kick coolly, and returned it with interest. Crawford, getting possession,
ESSAYED A FINE DROP,
which fell wide, and Everton, coming once more, were awarded a free kick, which Gray took from the left. Sunderland retained their position, and after many efforts got down to Muir, where a capital display was given. They remained here for some moments, experiencing all the trouble of
A VERITABLE SIEGE.
Subsequently Muir's opponents raised it, and the visitors were placed on the defensive. Proudfoot, however, messed the affair when he had a grand chance, and this caused no little anxiety to the spectators. The game ended without any further score as follows : Everton 1 goal, Sunderland nil.

McWILLIAM
Scottish Referee - Friday 16 March 1900
McWilliams, who played a trial game with Everton is again included in the Falkirk team. He played a good game against Alloa Athletic last Saturday.

EVERTON TEAMS
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 16 March 1900
In the League match at Wolverhampton, on Saturday, Everton will be represented by the following team; Muir, goal; Balmer, and Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray forwards. Train leaves Lime street Station at 10.5 and the kicked off is at 3.15.
EVERTON COMBINATION v.  MANCHESTER CITY RESERVE
This Lancashire Combination match will be played at Goodison Park. The following team will represent Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Watson and Crelly, backs; Cowell, Green, and Eddleston, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Oldham, Chadwick, and Gee, forwards. Kick-off at 3.30.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS v  EVERTON
Sports Argus - Saturday 17 March 1900
The Wanderers struck off the list one of their postponed matches to-day, when Everton appeared at Moulmein. This encounter, by the way, should have taken place at Wolverhampton on November 18th. but the inclement weather was the cause of the postponement. Today the Wanderers had a very strong team on the lied, in fact, it was identically the same as drew with Newcastle United on the same enclosure a fortnight ago, and, with one exception, the same as defeated the Villa last Monday in the Birmingham Cup competition. Hill,Griffiths, Wolverhampton people were pleased to see, had recovered, and to-day he piloted the eleven against the Toffee men. Dan Nurse, the captain of the reserve team, who took Griffiths’ place last Saturday and Monday, dropped out to captain the reserve team. To-day’s team was the second strongest placed against any team this season, but., considering the home performances of the men this season, it was difficult to tell how they would shape this afternoon. Everton had a good side up, and the teams, in charge of Referee Fox, were as follow :—Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Baddeley, goal; Davies, Blackett; Griffiths, Pheasant, Fleming; Bowen, Harper, Beats, Worton, Miller. Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer, Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, Abbotts, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. The weather was very fine, but a somewhat cold wind prevailed. The attendance of spectators did not exceed 7,000. Everton got away at the start, and the Wanderers' goal had a narrow escape. Settle gained for himself a splendid position, and found himself with only the goalkeeper to beat. However he shot against Baddeley, and eventually Blackett cleared at the expanse of a corner, which proved of no advantage to Everton. The Wanderers went away with a rush on the right wing, and the ball being passed over, Miller again centred, but Muir saved three times in succession. The exchanges had been equally divided, but when Miller got away and centred, it appeared that the colours of Everton would be lowered. However. Harper, who met the pass,headed over. Evertor farced the pressure, and matters were going badly with the Wanderers. Proudfoot hada chance similar to that which Settle missed, but this time Hill Griffiths, who had got behind Baddeley, stopped the ball, and gave acorner. Two minutes later a lovely chance was thrown away by the home right wing. After Worton and Miller had been playing brilliantly, Bowen missed the pass. Later, Miller neatly tricked Balmer, and shot in, but the ball , kicked a little too strong, sailed just over the bar. Snow began to fall as the Wanderers pressed hard. A corner fell to them, but Harper headed on to the top of the net. The Wanderersgot going again very strongly, and a foul fail to them close in. Abbott cleared. Bowen, who was playing a better game than last week, passed to Harper, and a brilliant shot from the latter tickled Muir. It was a capital effort, Miller and Worton caused Muir to save.
Half-time— Wanderers 0. Everton 0.
The restart of hostilities saw Everton making straight for goal. Baddeley saved, and threw away with several of the Everton forwards on top of him. Proudfoot met the return and banged the ball into the net. After this revere the Wanderers showed more energy and dogged determination. The forwards went in a line, and Bowen passed in to Harper. Getting into position ten yards from goal, he beat Muir with a brilliant shot, the equaliser eliciting tremendous cheers from the crowd. Snow again fell heavily, but the Wanderers kept pegging away in grand style Harper slung in a twenty from thirty yards, the ball beating Muir and striking the bar. From the rebound Balmer cleared his lines. The Wanderers from an attack had fearful luck. Proudfoot had an open goal, but Blackett tripped him just outside the line, Bowen scored. Final; Wanderers 2 Everton 1.

FAMOUS MEN IN FOOTBALL
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 March 1900
W. TOMAN.
The leading centre-forwards in League football 12 months ago were Wilfred Toman and Leonard Benbow; this season both have been the background, the former failing to reproduce his past form, and frequently being relegated reserve duty, and latter playing positively poorly on the one or two occasions he has been called upon to take the pivot position usually occupied this season by the old Third Lanark player, Robert Beveridge. This decline seems on the surface to be altogether inexplicable: both are men of proved ability, and age can have nothing to do with it, for Toman, the elder the two, only 24. Friends of Benbow may urge that the occasional one-match trials accorded him have given him no fair chance, and there is certainly some reason in the contention that a player pressed into service at a pinch once in two or three months cannot be expected to drop into form all in a moment; Toman's circumstances have been different, for although shelved and reshelved, and shifted from one position to another, his trials have been sufficiently extensive to allow of him settling down. Happily, he seems at length to be on the way towards a better standard, and even in the inside right berth is showing form which all events is very fairly satisfactory, and for his own reputation's sake it is to be hoped that the last two months will witness a praiseworthy effort to retrieve a reputation which last season deservedly won him the distinction of leading the English League attack against the Scottish Leaguers at Glasgow—a reputation, too, which induced Everton to pay a princely transfer fee to Burnley, and to give the player a salary of meet handsome proportions. Bishop Auckland has sent out some excellent footballers, and one of the number of such is Toman. Once there was an idea in many quarters that Scotland claimed him for its own, this impression probably arising from the fact that Burnley brought him from Aberdeen. Toman’s residence in Aberdeen was, however, merely incidental to his training for the Civil Service. Designed for some such calling, he was educated at a local school in Durham, afterwards at Newcastle Grammer School, next at St. Mary’s College in Berkshire, and last of all he went to the Granite City to complete his training. And then, instead of entering the Civil Service, he was persuaded by an eloquent emissary of the Burnley Club to become an English League footballer. Always in his school and college days he had been in love with the game, and at Aberdeen he appeared for two clubs, including the Victoria United. Clever little MaConnachie was playing in Aberdeen during Toman’s term of residence there. It was in the season 1896-7 that toman joined Burnley, starting with the Turf Moor organisation somewhere near Christmas, so that he had about two years and a half of service with the Reds before putting on the colours of Everton. Toman is built for football, standing 5ft 10in., and weighing eleven stones and a half. At the various educational institutions in England he usually figured inside right, not taking the pivot position until after he went North. His success in the centre was immediate and complete, and it was no doubt his pronounced ability, with all the intoxication of satisfaction and delight incidental thereto, that caused him to adopt the game as a profession -an example followed not so long since by a young fellow educated at one of our  Lancashire public schools-Russell. I refer to that excellent custodian, Beardsley. Toman’s coming to Burnley was fortune for the club; it was fortunate, too, for himself in so far as the improvement of his football was concerned. He had the advantage of playing alongside masterpiece Janes Ross, and the latter’s influence in shaping the style of Toman was considerable, even as it was in moulding and perfecting the play of George Allen; and certain it is that there can be no better education for a rising forward than playing alongside the old North Ender. Toman, however, was a player of parts when he came, but the polishing effect was excellent, so much so that not only did he become an accomplished artiste himself, but he looked for a similar application of brain power to the footwork of others; and nothing ever seemed to annoy him more than to see a player make a full-steam-ahead rush along the field, trusting to chance for a final shot or centre, and not keeping an eye open, for any opening for a pass en route. He is himself gifted with an eye for the whole game, is quick to take in any situation, and seldom on his best days does he fail to appreciable the value of a feed in any direction, to right or left. Fostering the combination game by the judicious fashion in which he looks after the wings, he is never seen to advantage if his colleagues do not fall in with his methods; individual style, or two wings and a centre, are nothing in his line; one line of five, working in harmony, as they should do, with a capable useful centre, is the thing for him, and the thing which should grow out of such work as I have seen him perform for Burnley. If his colleagues will repass to him as he passes to them, the chances of goals are good, for he can weave his way through a close defence with superior cleverness, and shoots with force and accuracy. Fairly fast, he is almost always well abreast of the attack, and these qualities which constituted him a player of unusual merit in former season, may yet once more place him in the front rank of centre forwards. The future is in Toman’s own hands.

PERTAINING TO PROMINENT PLAYERS
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 March 1900
JOHNNY HOLT
Johnny Holt has come in for international distinction again, after having been passed over since 1895, and although the diminutive centre half only secured his place against Ireland to-day, because Frank Forman had been laid up with a cold, he would doubtless be delighted that the selectors considered him sufficiently excellent to appear in place of the absent Forrester. Whether the trial of some aspirant of younger years would not have been a more far-seeing course is a question upon which opinions are sure to differ; were it not that the forward rank includes four players new to international football, the feeling would probably have been strongly in favour of the trial of some centre-half about whom less is known, but who is showing form worthy of trial. But there must be a strong leaven of reliability. Holt has played twice each against Ireland and Wales, not including today, but in the big event with the Scots, he first got his place in 1891, and held it continuously for five seasons- a tribute beyond the power of words to express. His greatest point was the perfect style in which he shadowed a centre-forward; so it is still. Always on the heels of his opponent, he jumps up behind and heads the ball away, to the astonishment of a forward, and it required a marvellously clever player to get the better of Reading’s ex-Evertonian, when the latter was at his best. The Southerners are charmed with his present form.

MURMOURS FROM THE MERSEY
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 March 1900
By Tom Tiddler
The sequel of Everton’s recent visit to Dundee is that J. Watson, one of Dundee’s backs, is coming to Everton for good. And Everton’s visit was supposed to be a “friendly” one! If a man is to be missing every time Everton play a match, other clubs will be rather dry of meeting them; or, at any rate, the £50 guarantee which Everton receive on three occasions ought in common fairness to be paid by, instead of to them. I never heard of a cooler piece of poaching; Everton kindly obliged by Dundee with a match to fill a vacancy in their fixture card, paid a handsome sum for going, treated hospitably; and then they requite the kindliness of their hosts by “nobbling” one of their best backs! Even Sunderland never went quite so far. They invited Scotch clubs to visit them, and utilised the opportunity to spot the likeliest recruits. But Everton carry the war on to other clubs’ premises; under the specious pretext of paying a “friendly” they practice a trick on their entertainers which I can only characterises as distinctly unfriendly. They know better, of course; there would be no sin in it if they didn’t. but it is useless saying “thou shall not steal” to a hungry man; and just as useless to say “thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s goods” to Everton, hard up for new players. I know nothing about Watson, the new back. All I can do is to presume that he is a capable player, or Everotn would not have got him. It is a rather rash piece of presumption on my part, knowing as I do, how often in the past Everton have signed on “capable” men who have turned out the greatest incapables. Experience, which teaches fools, seems to have no effect on Everton, I hope because they are not fools. For the time being Watson’s reputation is safe. It is a weakness of human nature to invest the distant, the unseen, the unknown, with all sorts of extravagant qualities. And as Watson is all three at present, the Liverpool public praise him highly. Had he been a local man, he would have been meanly thought of. It inspires respect, amounting to veneration, to be told that he will get £5 a week. A player who is paid so much mist be a top sawyer, or why is he paid it? The size of his salary is the proof of his merit; the crowd will be able for some time to see no spots on that sun, or, if they do, they will be beauty spots; the critics will be slow to come to the conclusion that a man from a distance, at £5 a week, is perhaps, after all, as dear as a local lad at a guinea. It will be a severe disappointment to us all should Watson, after all the superhuman qualities attributed to him, prove to be the usual “forked radish.” He ought to have wings to his feet, like Mercury, at least.
So many local Scotch players are mentioned as probable for the international match next month that the selection of them all would make the match Liverpool v England. To the list of five Anfield-road men I gave last week- A. Goldie, Dunlop, Raisbeck, Robertson, and Morgan-have now to be added Taylor and Proudfoot, of Everton, Mr. William McGregor is picking the Anglo-Scots and he has asked Liverpool and Everton to let these players off for the preliminary trial matches. Everton could very well spare Taylor and Proudfoot; they have a big staff, plenty of efficient substitutes, and occupy a comfortable position in the League tournament.
Settle, of Everton has been chosen for the Players’ Union match at Glasgow. I note that he is seventh in the list of First League sharpshooters, having scored 13 goals during the season- a sinister number for a sinister performance. But 13 is by no means all he has scored indirectly; for instance, last week, the winning goal against Sunderland was his, Toman had merely to put it through, the goal counting to Toman’s credit, though. And so of a great many others. The fact would make some players selfish and inclined to score on their own; but Settle is not of that kind; so far from being selfish, I believe he gave the ball to Toman out of charity, the poor chap is so badly off for goals. Only a first class player like Settle could afford to make opportunities for his colleagues. It argues a kind heart, too, as well as a skilful boot, for him to do it, for the tendency to value a man-on the basis of his goal average inevitably breed selfishness; besides which Settle’s penchant for “scoring at unexpected moments” is now so notorious that goalkeepers are more and more difficult to deceive. My remarks about the effect of minor football, I notice, have been pretty freely quoted. But they have been misconstrued. I blamed the band at Goodison Park for Everton’s numerous defeats there, not all bands. On the contrary, I warmly recommend music as, properly directed, being exceedingly helpful to the home team- equal to twelfth man, in fact. Everton won last week, and the band played, but my theory is not disproved in consequence. I maintain they now, in spite of the band, and that they would have won by much more than a goal had these been no band, or rather had that particular band been absent. I was pleased to see that the band adopted my views, to some extent. They did not step immediately the game began; they continued for quite five minutes. So far so good; but the thing is to chip in at a critical juncture of the game, and so help the home side. For instance, when Toman scored for Everton, then was the time for the band to play. It would have been better still to play before the goal as scored. A sympathetic conductor would see late of opportunities of being useful to his side; but it would pay Everton better to send their band to Anfield-road.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 2 EVERTON 1
March 19 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The conditions, which prevailed at Wolverhampton on Saturday, were very different from those, which on The 18 th Nov necessitated the postponement of the first League match of the season between Everton and the Wanderers. On the latter occasion the Molineux grounds were enveloped in fog, which rendered it impossible to see more than two or three yards. On Saturday afternoon had threatened in the early part of the day, the sun shone brilliantly, and though the atmosphere was keen more delightful weather could not have been desired. It was therefore an ideal afternoon for spectators who turned up better than has been the case at Wolverhampton of late. Everton made no change in the team which defeat Sunderland the previous Saturday, while the Wolves were represented by the strongest possible eleven, the popular captain Griffiths having recovered from his injury. At 3-15 the teams faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Molyneux backs, Blythe Boyle and Abbott halfbacks Taylor (captain), Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray forwards, Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Baddeley, goal, Davies, and Blacklett, backs Griffiths (captain), Pheasant and Fleming, halfbacks, Bowen, Harper, Beats, Worton, and Millar forwards. Referee Mr.Fox,, Sheffield. Everton lossing the toss, Proudfoot kicked off against the sun. In the first minutes after smart work Settle caused Baddley to handle. Afterwards Gray in centreing out behind and from a rush by the home right wing Balmer kicked clear Bowan and Harper were still prominent, and Muir had to throw away. Right away the Everton forwards forced the pace, and Settle was dangerous but Baddeley ran out to meet him. The capture of the goal seemed certain, but on Settle shooting the ball unluckily struck the custodian and after exciting exchanges the danger was removed at the expense of an abortive corner. After this the Wolverhampton attacked in the most persistent style, exhibiting any amount of dash and resource. From a centre Bowen, Millar, put in a beauty, which Muir marvelously saved and a moment later a header by beats also gave the Everton custodian considerable trouble. The game was remarkably fast and the scene of operations being suddenly changed; Taylor got away on his own, but through being too closely watched by Blackett his shot was terribly wide. Everton again took up the attack, but were not allowed to get in a shot at goal, Settle when he had an opening, being neatly robbed by Griffith as he was about to shoot. The Everton front line lacked combination, and from the cause much good work was absolutely thrown away. Suddenly the sun disappeared and the sky darkening, snow begins to fall heavily. The Wolves forced the play and Molyneux conceded a corner, from which, Proudfoot headed wide. Proudfoot was sailing away nicely only to be pulled up by Blackett. A moment later Proudfoot compelled Baddeley to grant a corner, but this too was abortive, the whistle blowing for the interval immediately afterwards. Half time result Everton nil; Wolverhampton Wanderers nil. On resuming the Wolves were the aggressors, but for a time the play was of the scrambling order, neither side exhibiting much finish. At last one of the Wanderers defenders by a miskick let in the Everton forwards, and after Proudfoot had shot in, Taylor easily defeated Baddeley. The Wolves spurred on by this unexpected reverse attacked persistently, but could extract no quarter from Balmer and Molyneux. The Wolves defence too was found plenty of work, and their goal was almost captured a second time. The home forwards looked to have a chance when Harper knocked the ball down with his hands. However this mattered little, for almost immediately afterwards smart work by Beats and Harper resulted in the latter equalising with a shot which gave Muir no chance. After this the play was more exciting than ever. Following a neat pass Settle, Taylor ran down on his own, attended by Bickett who had to concede what proved to be a fruitless corner. Bowen placed the winging goal. Final result Wanderers 2 goals Everton 1.

EVERTON RESERVES 7 MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 0
March 19 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
In this return match at Goodison Park, on Saturday, Everton give a trail to a new full back Watson, and a couple of halves (Cowell and Eddlestone). Leonard started for City Cowell pulling up the left wing in fine style. Warm pressure was put on the visitor goal, but the defencers were in capital trim. Oldham once had a difficult chance, but ‘'skied'' the ball. Chadwick kept on the defensive and from a shot the visitors; Dawson put through after Chappell had saved. Everton again pressed after Chappell had saved. Everton again pressed on resuming but Mann and Bowman cleared, and Kitchen saved a warm shot from Mann. Immediately afterwards Everton forced a corner. This was beautifully placed by Gee, and Dawson headed through. Within a minute Roche again beat Chappell, but the point was negative for offside. A grand shot by gee however beat Chappell all the way- the ball having been put past Chappell three in as many minutes. Chappell saved splendidly from Oldham at the expense of a corner but this was well placed by Chadwick scored. Half time Everton 4 goals, ManCity nil. Final result Everton 7 goals Man City nil. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Watson, and Crelly. Backs, Cowell, Green, and Eddleston halfbacks, Roche Dawson, Oldham, Chadwick (a) and Gee, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 19 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The Everton club have during the past four seasons found the home of the Wolves a happy hunting ground for the League points, but on Saturday last there was a reversal of what had become to be looked upon at the usual order of things, for the Wolves had the satisfaction of netting the points. Their legitimate claim to victory however, was one those who closely followed the game uphold which could not honesty. Five minutes from the close of operations what was palpably a free kick to Everton if a free kick should have been at all entertained, was given against them, with a resulting goal, and thus the home side were returned victors. The point under notice came about in the following manner. During a strong attack by the home left wing pair, Blythe headed the ball and at the same time was severely sandwiched by two opposing players. The whistle was promptly blown and of course the spectators expected a free kick against the Wanderers but to their surprise, the penalty was given otherwise, with the result afore mentioned. The directors of the home club were not unmindful, and could offer no other explanation than that of a gross error of judgement on the part of the referee, and it was unfortunate that this ruling- one of several doubtful decisions- should have had so serious a bearing upon the game. A draw would have been a fairly accurate reflex of the game, which was contested upon two totally opposite lines. The Everton players undoubtedly gave the more scientific exposition than did their opponents, who trusted mainly to long swinging passes, and close following of the ball. An infusion of the latter qualities would have placed Everton very comfortably ahead, and seeing that they repeatedly experienced this it is high time that they took the situation in seriously. Low crisp passing, with the play equally distributed along the line, is of course, what delegate football crowds, but in three days of keen competition it is absolutely essential that the players should go further and finish up their clever movements with a dash that is almost certain of success. Coming to the players and dealing first with the Forwards, it must be fairly changed in the line, and it unfortunate that in recent away matches, the selection committee have not been represented otherwise a change must have been effected weeks ago. Many fine movements were nullified by a bad finish from the left wing and under ordinary circumstances, judging from the chances that were opened out, scoring should have been freely indulged in. it was not a great day for Settle, for he was shadowed at every turn by the keen Wolves who should they adopt the same worrying tactics in their coming matches, are likely to retain their position in the League table. Proudfoot Toman and Taylor put in a lot of useful work, which however, was without its reward and while cognizant of the attractive style of play, which they adopt, it would benefit their style of play which they adopt it would benefit their side immediately if a superb weft in the shape of a determined dash at goal was forthcoming. At halfback Abbott clearly led the way with useful work. He was never beaten, and but for his close attentions to the Wolves right wing pair, who were generally well held in check, the issue might easily have been decided early on in the game. Boyle also put in many fine touches of play, and what little Blythe lacked in silk was certainly accounted for by pluck and sheer determination to hold his own. Once again Balmer came through the contest with flying colours, but Molyneux is still inclined to allow his opponents too much lattitude, as may be inferred from the fact that both goals came from his side, one occasion when scoring under ordinary circumstances appeared improbable. Muir had a few anxious moments-the outcome of strong rushes-and executed all that was possible in good style, and his vis-a-vis, Baddeley also got through his work creditably. The full backs played a vigorous game and the halves to a man were variable gluttons for work. The dash of the forward line was a prominent feature in the display of the team as time after time one or other of the quintet was in complete possession of the ball, and nothing could have prevented from obtaining a substantial victory. As stated before, a draw would have better befitted the occasion, but doubtless amends will be made next Saturday, where the teams meet at Goodison Park in the return League engagement.

A LUCKY WIN FOR THE “WOLVES”
Athletic News - Monday 19 March 1900
By Wandering Wolf
It was not an inviting sort of afternoon for football followers at Wolverhampton on Saturday, and considering the keen, biting wind that was blowing and the great prospect of snow, the crowd, which numbered about 5,000, was not so very unsatisfactory. The Wanderers were fortunate in being able to place their best eleven in the field, whilst the Everton team was a fairly representative one. The ground was on the hard side until the snow that fell at half time had exercised a softening influence over it, and the ball seemed particularly tricky. When Mr. J. Fox, of Sheffield, had the men in order they were arranged as follows;-
Wanderers; Baddeley, goal; Davies, and Blackett, backs; Griffiths, Pheasant, and Fleming, half-backs; Bowen, Harper, Beats, Worton, and Miller, forwards. Everton.- Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. In the first portion of the game neither side could boast of supremacy, and though either goal had narrow escapes, it was most fitting that the score should be even at the interval. The Wanderers started in business-like in the second portion, and deserved to score in the first few minutes. Everton, however, were the first to find their way through the defence, Proudfoot, after a nice run, sending into Baddeley’s hands for Taylor to rush up and place the ball in the net. With the Wanderers a bit harassed through being scored against, the visiting team more than held their own, but their defence fell before a fine piece of trickery and a splendid shot by Harper. The game was of a very disordered kind, and nothing of moment occurred until about five minutes from time, when Bowen scored form a free-kick taken by Blackett, and the Liverpool team were thus unluckily defeated by two goals to one. There is solace in victory undeserved, but there is triumph in a win well earned. To say that the “Wolves” triumphed over Everton on Saturday would be criticism cranked, for they were
DISTINCTLY LUCKY TO GAIN A COUPLE OF POINTS
At one period, when Everton had scored their first goal, everything seemed to go in their favour, and there were those among the crowd who had fearsome forebodings, freely expressed (as is the habit of a Wolverhampton crowd) in words more or less choice, of a crushing defeat. There was an even mediocrity about the play in the first half that made one feel glad that neither side had scored when the interval came, for the defence on either side was superior to the attack, and it was only in accordance with the fitness of things that no slur in the shape of a goal should be cast upon the defensive abilities that were shown in the vicinity of either set of goalposts. There was a solidity and soundness about the tactics adopted by Messrs. Balmer, Molineux, and Muir, that was distinctly pleasing, but it must be said that the Wanderers’ forwards played into the hands of their opponents by repeatedly sending the ball straight to the toes of the Everton backs, who were in splendid kicking form. Molineux was particularly prominent in this respect, and led Bowen and Harper a rare dance. His efforts were the more meritorious from the fact that he had a half-back in front of him who played a new style of game, and one that is not altogether likely to find general adoption. It is hard indeed to imagine Abbott as a successful half-back. He is far from being built on those lines most calculated to secure the greatest amount to activity so necessary to a player in his position. The weakest back on the field was Davies, who seemed in an unaccountably erratic mood. He rushed with characteristic fearlessness, but without his usual soundness of judgement, whilst his kicking was -well, it was not good. One of the several narrow escapes that the Wanderers experienced occurred when Davies missed his kick and the ball was pounced upon by Proudfoot, who encountered Baddeley, but as the latter also missed his kick the goal was open to the Everton centre forward. It was here, however, that the Wanderers’ captain, “Hill” Griffiths, decided to show that he had shaken off the effects of the concussion recently received that rendered him insensible for 24 hours. He sprinted splendidly to his team’s rescue, and just saved the ball from rolling over the line. But for Griffiths’ well-judged effort his side would have had a goal against them at half-time for certain. This was not the only occasion upon which Griffiths prevented what looked like a certain score, and throughout the game he
HELD SETTLE WELL IN CHECK
Although fortunately for him, Gray was distinctly moderate in the outside left position, and of no great service to his partner. The extreme right, however, was in far different form, and it was rather hard lines on Fleming to have had such a warm customer opposed to him right under the eyes, as it were, of the Anglo-Scots Selection Committee. The Wanderers left-half could not hold Taylor at all, and seemed to be put clean off his usually sound and judicious methods. Pheasant at half displaced his usual ability in defence and also his customary lack of ability to feed his forwards. This exceedingly promising young half-back is too apt to give a display of his capability in the way of “sniping” when a pass to his forwards would be of vastly more service to his side. The game, taken altogether, was of a distinctly straggling nature, and served to show the futility of repeated individual efforts in first-class football as played at the present time. There were many, very many, more smart bits of work done in isolated instances that was very pleasing to watch, but of very little practical use. Both teams displayed a lamentable lack of cohesive ability, and the Wanderers were distinctly fortunate to win for their opponents were within six inches of scoring on no fewer than three occasions.

THE LIVERPOOL DISTRICT AND NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 19 March 1900
By the Loiterer
Everton did not come up to expectations in the match at Wolverhampton, as the team have lost instead of winning, as was the case last season. Do what you will, the further you go into the matter the more difficult does the problem appear when you compare the teams that do duty for Everton and Liverpool with their antagonist week after week. Sometimes you are up and a other down, and I am convinced there is some influence at work which does not show itself on the surface, but which occasionally one can detect in the play. All know what the Liverpool team did last season, and in my opinion the prospects of the Everton Club at the beginning of this were of the brightest and yet the team play sucks and drakes with their reputation. Whether the officials do not keep pace with the other clubs is a question for them to settle, but the fact remains that however high a price paid for a player other clubs seem to go on equal if not better, at a cheaper rate. When highly toned clubs come down a high figure had to be played and at this time the club was only just feeling its feet, but the ventures paid, and then the players were just as exorbitant in their demands and between the two an average had to be struck. But with all due respect to the adjuster, I don’t think the public of Liverpool have ever got decent value out of one or the other.
The Combination fixture at Goodison Park be ween Everton Combination and the City reserve drew a crowd of close upon 2,000 spectators. Leonard kicked off for the Manchurians, who were the first to press, but Cowell pulled then up nicely. Everton attacked strongly, and Dawson defeated Chappell after 18 minutes’ play the same player adding another few minutes after. Roche got the leather past the City custodian again, but the point was negatived. Continuing the pressure the Evertonians again scored through Gee, Chadwick further augmenting the score before the interval, when the game stood four to nil in favour of the home team. Resuming the Evertonians played with wonderful dash and finish, and ultimately ran out the winners by seven goals to nil.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS BEAT EVERTON
Birmingham Daily Post – Monday 19 March 1900
The first meeting of the season between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton at Molineux Ground should have taken place on November 25, but a postponement until Saturday had to be arranged, as on the original date the district was enveloped in a think fog and play was out of the question. There was every indication that the game on Saturday would be carried on under favourable climate conditions. As at the start the sun shone brightly, but half an hour later snow commenced to fall and only ceased at brief intervals up to the close of the contest, which was witnessed by about 5,000 spectators. Both sides were strongly represented, the Wanderers having their best team on the ground, Hill Griffiths, who had recovered from the nasty blow he received a fortnight ago, being able to again take charge of the players. When Everton last visited Wolverhampton they won by two goals to one, and, although they have not been doing very well of late, a close struggle was anticipated. The sides, in fact, proved to be very evenly matches, and it was only within five minutes of the call of time that the Wanderers gained the winning goal. The visitors kicked off, and they were the first to become dangerous, as after Baddeley had fisted out a shot Settle secured the ball at close range, and but for a bit of fine generalship on the part of the Wolverhampton custodian he would have scored. For some time afterwards a hot attack on the Everton goal was carried on, Muir having a number of shots to deal with, but few of them had any sting in them. Some smart individual play in midfield followed, and a couple of corners which fell to the Wanderers were valueless. Just before half-time, Proudfoot ran the ball down and was on the point of scoring when he was cleverly dispossessed by Griffiths. Changing ends with a clean sheet the Wanderers made a determined attack, but their shooting was weak, and the Everton men breaking through, Baddaley failed to get the ball away, and Proudfoot, meeting it, registered the first point. The equalising goal came a few minutes later through Harper. Some clever play was afterwards shown by both sides, the visitors’ forwards being in fine form, but they were repeatedly pulled up by the opposing half-backs. A few minutes before the call of time Blackett took a free kick in midfield, and, the ball falling at the foot of Bowen, he shot it past Muir, and the game was over. The display throughout was a most interesting one, the visitors proving themselves to be a smart individually and in combination as the Wanderers. Miller and Worton were the better wing for the Wanderers, and Beats (in the centre) did some capital work. Hill Griffiths was the best half, and he rescued his side several times at critical moments. The defence was generally very sound. On the visitors side Muir proved himself to be a very capable goalkeeper, and he was well protected by Balmer and Molineux. The halves did fairly well, but the feature of Everton’s display was the clever way in which the forwards worked to score, Proudfoot, Settle, and Taylor being very dangerous time after time.

EVERTON v.  WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Daily Post – Monday 19 March 1900
This temporarily abandoned fixture was duly fought out on the Molineux Grounds on Saturday afternoon, when the weather was in brilliant contrast, a warm sun and a blue sky taking the place of dampness and fog. Under the charge of Mr. Tom Keats, one of the most able and popular directors, and Mr. Molyneux, the courteous secretary, the team left Lime-street early in the morning, Wolverhampton being reached shortly after noon. The game excited considerable interest, and there was an excellent attendance when the men turned out. Everton lost the toss, and Proudfoot kicked off in face of the sun. the visitors at once made ground, Settle taking the ball along and Proudfoot sending in a shot which Baddeley ran out to and cleared. The Wolves then advanced dangerous on the right, Harper sending in one that gave Muir some trouble. After a short spell of midfield work, the Wolves made ground and from a pass by Bowen Miller sent in a clinking shot, which Muir saved with conspicuous ability. Still the home forwards kept up the attack, and a shot by Pheasant was almost headed into goal by Beats, only Muir’s vigilance averting disaster. After this the game opened out, and both teams pressed in turn. A foul against Blackett close in gave the Evertonians an advantage, but the home defence was thoroughly sound, and danger was averted. Proudfoot should have profited by a miskick on the part of Blackett, but he was just too late, the danger being cleared at the expense of a fruitless corner. The blues,however, who were showing clever football stuck to their guns, and a second corner was forced by Proudfoot, but this in turn was safely disposed of. After a warm bully in front of Baddeley, give-and-take play followed, after which the Wanderers attacked, and for a time the Everton defence looked like collapsing, but twice Balmer saved the situation, and then Bowen shot just outside. The game was now being contested at top speed, both sides playing most spiritedly, and on several occasions more than necessary vigour was shown, but Mr. Fox appeared not to see it. The homesters now pressed for a considerable time. Snow was now falling somewhat heavily, and the spectators most of whom were unsheltered, suffered considerable discomfort. A combined movement on the part of the visiting forwards gave promise of something, but any hopes that might have been entertained were dashed by Settle sending in a long ground shot that passed harmlessly outside. Although showing more stylish play than their opponents, the Everton forwards were lamentably short of dash in front of goal, and many opportunities of scoring were lost. Proudfoot, just before the interval, was baulked when a goal seemed certain half-time coming without anything being registered. On restarting, Toman and Taylor attempted to get away, but without success, and this abortive movement was followed by a long attack upon Muir’s charge, but all without effect, and at last Everton moved away to some purpose. Taylor, Toman, and Proudfoot moving along in fine style, Proudfoot shot, and the Wolves’ custodian partially cleared, but Taylor caught the return and placed the ball in the corner of the net. This reverse caused the Wolves to put on extra steam, and from a free kick the leather was netted, but without touching a second player. Then followed a long assault on the part of the home forwards, and at length their persistence was rewarded by Harper equalising, amid loud cheers. after this both sides played up strenuously, Taylor on one occasion rushing down and forcing an unfruitful corner. Bowen put the Wolves ahead. Result; Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 goals Everton 1 goal.
Teams;- Everton.- Muir, goal; Balmer, and Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Baddeley, goal; Davies and Blackett, backs; Griffiths, Pheasant, and Fleming, half-backs; Bowen, Harper, Beats, Worton, and Miller, forwards.

MURMURS FROM THE MERSEY
Lancashire Evening Post – Saturday 24 March 1900
By Tom Tiddler
Rather too much of the Wolves we are having of late- the Wolves away last week, the Wolves at Goodison Park today, the Wolves away to Liverpool again next week. Not much interest attaches to Everton’s League performances. They can neither climb to the top nor fall to the bottom of the League ladder. It would have been a good thing for the team had the Wooden Spoon been there to prod them on, give them a “Gee-up whoa!” They occupy in the League what some people would call the ”golden mean” -the middle place. But it has not been “golden” to Everton, for their mediocre shows have killed all interest in their doing; they have lost all ambition to rise, and with no fear of a fall, they have been lulled into a slothful content with their undistinguished position among the 18. A few steps higher, and they would have aspired to the top; a few steps lower, and they would have sought to give the Wooden Spoon a wider berth. Everton are lost for want of a spur, and they will finish the tournament with the reputation of disappointing “platers.”
I see that Sunderland have been complaining about the “late start” at Goodison Park on their recent visit. What right have they to complain? It is the privilege of the home team- Cup ties excepted-to fix the start for their own convenience; and Everton fixed on four o’clock to let the crowd get up. Sunderland knew all about it, and acquiesced. They have done the same thing themselves dozens of times, and Everton have never complained. It is the correct thing, as I say, for the home team to do. Was the light defective when the Toffies scored the winning goal? If so, Sunderland can protest. I rather suspect they would never have complained had they won the match.

EVERTON V WOLVES
March 26, 1900. Glasgow Herald.
The record of these clubs in the competition this season pointed to a good game being witnessed, and consequently there were 10,000 people present at Goodison Park in the first half the game was full of spirit and interest. The play was take from end to end with surprising quickness. After a few minutes Brown scored for the visitors and then Toman had hard luck in not equaliseing. Time after time Baddley kept out difficult shots. Both goalkeeper's had to handle repeatedly, but nothing further was scored before half-time, when Wolves were leading by 1 goal to nil. On resuming Everton penned the visitors in their own half for a considerable period, and Brown and Boyle experienced the hardiest luck with splendid shots. Then Wolves woke up, and also had ill-luck, Bowen slipping when he had the goal at his mercy. Ten minutes later Miller missed the goal by inches only. Both goals subsequently had narrow escapes, but nothing further was scored, and the Wanderers won a keenly contested game by one goal to nil.

EVERTON 0 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 1
March 26 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
The return League engagement between these clubs was played at Goodison Park on Saturday, before an attendance of about 10,000. It will be remembered that the teams met on the previous Saturday at Wolverhampton where the home side broke a long spell of reverse at home on defeating the Evertonians by 2 goals to 1. It was confidently anticipated in Liverpool that this result would be reversed, though at the same time, it was freely admitted that the Evertonians would have to put their best efforts forward, as the Wolves had so far an excellent record in away from home matches. There was one change in the Everton team-Gee taking the place of Gray-and at 3-30 the sides turned out as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Balmer and Molyneux backs, Blythe Boyle, and Abbott, halfbacks, Taylor (captain), Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gee, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Baddeley, goal, Davies, and Blackett backs, Griffiths (captain), Pheasant, and Fleming, halfbacks, Bowen, Harper, Beats, Worton and Millar. Forwards. The Wolves had the better of the opening play, and Muir was early called upon. A movement led on by Miller resulted in fine cross shot being converted by Bowen, after the game had been five minutes in progress. This came somewhat as a surprise to the locals, and pulling themselves together several onslaughts were made on the Wolves defence though to no purpose for nothing could have been finer than the saving tactics of Blackett and Davies. A corner kick forced by Taylor came to nothing and immediately afterwards Beats was almost through owing to loose play by the home backs. At the other end, Toman made a poor attempt at an easy chance but amends were made immediately afterwards with a clever header, which passed but a trifle wide of the mark. Following further pressure by the visitors, the Everton left became prominent and a couple of clever shots were sent in be Gee-one a beauty, missing by inches only. His partner Settle was also busy, but met with no success and the interval arrived with the Wolves leading by one goal to nil. On resuming the Everton forwards shaped better, and early on looked like getting upon even terms. Toman struck the upright with a clever shot, and a capital drive from Boyle was a trifle lacking in elevation. The Wolverhampton eventually broke away, and Bowen, having outwitted Balmer found himself within a couple of yards from Muir, when he lost his footing and enabled the custodian to clear what was otherwise a certain goal. The energy infused into the play of the Wolves was a striking feature throughout, and being keen on the ball they were always dangerous. On several occasions the Everton goal was all but captured and some time had elsaped and the home van were in dangerous possession of the ball. They met with stubborn resistance from the backs, and further behind Baddeley was always a tower of strength. Towards the close a most determined attempt was made to equalise but the point was not forthcoming, and the Wolves won a hard game by a goal to nil having thus annexed four points this season at the expense of the Everton Club.

EVERTON REVIEW
March 26 1900. The Liverpool Mercury
Consistently inconsistent is about the only term that can be applied to the Everton team this season, and the display given against the Wolves would on the football thermometer register something not far removed from zero. The performance which have been dished up for the edification of the public at Goodison Park have occasionally been of a high quality, but as a matter of fact the general rule has been a second rate entertainment. The return game with the Wolves afforded the opportunity of witnessing another of then questionable delectations, enough to make the average enthusiast yearn for the bright days of summer and the transmission of the big ball to a welcome four months oblivion. In one particular Everton appear certain to maintain interest, for it is absolutely impossible to predict their chances of success or otherwise, and they are just the sort of team to bring a football prophet to the verge of lunacy. The same team that failed to ignobly on Saturday had the previous week at Wolverhampton been seen in just the opposite humour, and were indeed extremely unfortunate in being beaten. They could not complain on that score in the match under notice, and they might very easily have been defeated by a more decisive margin. Their play was nothing but a desert of football with, perhaps one solitary oasis to relieve the spectator's monotony and the chief difficulty that arises is not to detect the weak. Vulnerable points but to discover which player reached even a moderate standard. There could be no more district contrast possible between two elevens than that furnished by the Wolves and Everton in this game. On the home side was witnessed feeble combination which at times actually reached vanishing point, and show movements whilst their shooting if, indeed this term can with some degree of lucidity be applied to their efforts in the direction of scoring, was the worst of all. The substitution of Gee for Gray on the outside left was not exactly a marked success; but this was not be only failure in the front rank which showed neither cleverness nor resource to battle against the strong defence of the Wolves. Proudfoot showed Very little attention to the wingmen; but much of the non-success of the line was due to the splendid tactics of the visitors half back division which, completely baffled the laboured efforts of the Everton front rank. Whilst the home forwards waited, with commendable patience, let it known, for each other's pass, the Wolves simply came between, and in a trice the ball was careering towards the Everton goal, not in slow stages, but carried along with a vigour and determination that was decidedly refreshing after the half hearted attempts of the home players. Their shooting was too ambitious-they aimed too high-and excellent chances of scoring were nullified by wild attempts and a want of judgement and dash when near goal. It is somewhat singular that the last season, when the Everton front rank was composed of what were termed ordinary players, the Wolves were twice defeated. Now, with the addition of the star element, an exactly opposite record is achieved. Settle however, was well marked, and even an international can scarcely be expected to shine when shadowed all through a game by three or four determined opponents. The whole line requires smartening up considerably, and the infusion of a little extra energy, when in a favorable position for scoring would not damage the play by any means. If the forwards were weak, the halves were even worse. It would be interesting to know what position Blythe occupied, or what his duties were suppose to be. He was according to the programme delegated to right half, but seeing that he hung round Balmer during the greater part of the afternoon, he must have had other ideas in mind. As it was his hybrid endeavours rendered him of little of no assistance to the front rank whilst he was equally useless further behind. Boyle and Abbott were about on a par with their confreres in efficiency, and were often outwitted by the tricky play of their opponents. Balmer and Molyneux were not up to concert pitch either, the former making several glaring errors, though at times he kicked well, and all round it might with confidence be stated that there was a wholesale display of puerility. The Wolves deserved their victory and were undoubtedly the better side. Their attack was most incisive, and their halfbacks were excellent, each of the trio doing splendidly. The backs were equally sound, and the team as a whole was most evenly balanced, and skilful withal. It is perhaps, just as well that the majority of Everton's remaining League matches are to be decided at home, for their season's record has been productive of nothing but disappointment.

WOLVERHAMPTON TOO MANY FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 26 March 1900
By Harricus
Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton were not long in completing their fixtures with each other a result the “Wolves” have the satisfaction of securing four points from the Evertonians in a matter of eight days. A tipster in a paper I saw on Saturday morning gave the “Wolves” as the only visiting eleven to win. He evidently knew something, for, after all, they only gained the verdict by a margin of one goal the previous week, though the fact that Everton were no fewer than seven notches lower in the League would certainly tend one to fancy the chances of the Midlanders. The sides were very representative, Gee making his reappearance in the ranks of the home team after a lengthy absence and in the interim he had disposed of a lot of his adipose flesh, probably with remorse at being left out of the team. Goodison Park presented rather an empty appearance when I arrived on the ground a few minutes before the advertised time of kick off, but I fancy people were under the impression that the kick off was at 4 instead of 3.30. anyhow, they did not roll up until after Referee Stott had got the game going, but they gradually swelled in numbers, until there were about 12,000 on the ground. The teams were;-
Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gee, forwards.
Wolverhampton Wanderers; Baddeley, goal; Davies, and Blackett, backs; Griffiths, Pheasant, and Fleming, half-backs; Bowen, Harper, Beats, Worton, and Miller, forwards.
The game was won and lost in the first three minutes. Then Everton men seemed to want to settle down by stages before entering into the series work but the “Wolves” were not built that way, and had evidently come to win. The left wing got the ball down, and Balmer being easily overcome, there was a cross to the right and Bowen had no difficulties in scoring what proved to be the
ONLY GOAL OF THE MATCH
For he was waiting almost right under the bar. One would have thought that this reverse would have roused the Goodisonians, but throughout the first half their visitors were the better side, the forwards being particularly smart on the ball. There was no shily-shallying with them, they pounced on the leather like cats, and before they could be tackled they had passed it on, always to one of their own side. Everton were requested to play up, but how could they if the other side would not let ‘em, and when half-time arrived with no alteration in the score folks were prepared for the worst. The home team, however, started the second moiety in dead earnest, and for a time pressed the ”Wolves” in their own quarter, but nothing came of the pressure, and gradually play opened out into uninteresting midfield work. Boyle certainly experienced very hard lines on one occasion by just grazing the cross-bar with a capital attempt, and Baddeley was once almost caught napping with a slow rolling shot on which he had evidently not cast his best eye, but then so too had the Wanderers chances at the other end. Still Everton disposed an anxiety to at least get on level terms towards the close, but they were met by a stubborn defence, and had to put up with a defeat. I had not previously seen the Wolverhampton team this season, but after Saturday |I am not surprised that they are third in the League table. Though they were not too brilliant they were always more than a match for their opponents, and they struck me as having a lot of latent ability up their sleeves or somewhere had it been required. Everton, however, never looked like winners, and really their forward play at times was very poor stuff/ there was too much taking the ball back in the direction of their goal to be compatible with a club of their pretensions, and making a semi-circle with the ball may show supposed superiority, and cause a laugh at the expense of an opposing half-back but it does not make much headway. The contrast in the two attacking forces was most marked, for the “Wolves” were ever ready to make the most of their opportunities, and did not throw chances away by studying what to do. They “did” without delay, and I should imagine that the
WOLVES’ FORWARDS ARE CAPABLE OF GREAT THINGS.
There was a half-hearted claim for off-side when Bowen scored, but Mr. Stott did not even trouble the linesmen, and indeed he conducted the game in admirable fashion. The said Bowen, by the way, missed the easiest chance of the match. He had got through splendidly, and looked a certain scorer, but be unaccountably went down on his knees to his own great disgust. The other extreme man, Miller, is not lacking in class, and knowns what to do with the ball and I can well understand the desire at Wolverhampton to get him in the representative matches. They believe that his abilities are deserving of recognition. I will leave the front rank and pass on to the half backs, where Pheasant was the star but they were all in good trim and understood their forwards, while the backs, ( not readable) My next door neighbour in the Press box said that the goalkeeper did not play Bad(de) l(ely). And I read with him. He is a good ‘un, but does not like being charged. There was not much to say against the losers defence, Balmer playing a very safe game at back, even though beaten at times by the smart wing opposed to him; while Abbott, and Boyle were both useful in the intermediate line. Abbott may not possess a classical style, but he is a very useful man to have in a team; but Blythe did not play a proper half back game at all, and the forwards- well, I have said sufficient of them to satisfy my readers that they were open to improvement. The “Wolves” were naturally jubilant, for the two matches with Everton represent a direct gain of four points over last year’s matches, both of which were won by Everton. They have also taken four points out of Sunderland within a few days, and as Mr. Sidney said to me after the match, but for a slip or two in home matches they might have been struggling with Aston Villa and Sheffield United for the championship. They have lost a match less than the Villa, but three of their five defeats have been sustained at home, which has gone against them. Still, on the other hand, they have been remarkably successful on foreign territory, which is a speaking proof that the “barracking” indulged in by the habitues of the Wolverhampton ground has a detrimental effect on the players, who evidently prefer to be out of range of the jeers of their alleged supporters.

EVERTON v  WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 26 March 1900
Played at Goodison Park in dull weather and before very good attendance. Both teams were of a representative character.  Taylor won the toss, and set his opponents to face a stiff breeze, which was blowing from the Park goal. It did not take the Wolves long to thread their way to striking distance Beats sending in a capital long which shot  which Muir dealt with finely. A foul against Blackett let in the homesters, who failed to make much use of their opportunity, and the visitors came back on the right. Bowen tried to centre, but was beaten by Molyneux. The next moment Gee essayed a run, only to be hustled off the ball, and then effective work was done by the Wolves left wing, and an exciting scrimmage in the Everton goal mouth terminated in Bowen scoring the first goal for Wolverhampton after only a couple of minutes’ play. From the centre the Evertonians went down in capital order, and a beautiful centre from Taylor forced Davies concede a corner, which yieldednothing to be attacking party, Griffiths was penalised for fouling Toman, the Wolves goal having a narrow escape from the free kick.  The visitors tried desperately hard to get through on either wing, but the Everton defence was very resolute. The chances of the Evertonians were enhanced by the concession of free kick close to the twelve yards line, but although nothing accrued from this Proudfoot shortly got in a splendid shot, but unfortunately the elevation was trifle too high. A moment later the Everton goal had an equally narrow escape, this also arising from free kick. The Wolves forwards then pressed forward, maintaining fine order, and it was due to Molyneux to say that he saved the situation on several occasions. The Wolves had hard luck, as after splendid working by the whole of the forward line the work was spoiled by a trifling informality. This reverse appeared to spur the visitors, and Pheasant, from a long range sent in a terrific low shot which whizzed by the side of the goal. The home party replied with a corner, which gave not the slightest trouble, and after this a beautiful pass to Gee went a begging. The latter player made amends the next moment by a rattling attempt on the Wolverhampton goal. Baddeley came out of very queer situation with flying colours, only to be all but beaten by Proudfoot. The Evertonians kept pegging away. When Gee found himself with a free course he shot with tremendous force, nearly knocking the Wolverhampton goalkeeper off his feet. Baddeley effected a very fine save, and was heartily cheered for his effort. Another very fine move was commenced by Settle, whose pass to Proudfoot was very badly taken, and in consequence a possible score was lost. Some brilliant but ineffective work by the home forwards comprised the most noticeable features of the remainder of the play. Half-time score;- Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 goal Everton nil.
Shortly after restarting the Evertonians got down, and Toman hit the post, this being shortly afterwards followed by a barren corner to the same side. Everton continued to hold the upper hand, the half backs keeping the forwards well employed and the latter resizing very opportunity in endeavouring to find an opening in the Wolves’ defence. The home backs too a played a very important part, but the opposing defensive forces were equally as resolute, and it was impossible to penetrate their defence. A ponderous kick by Blackett gave the Wolves front rank an opportunity, and they at once made their way down into Everton territory. Beats popped in a nice little shot, and Worton followed suit, a second one from the last-named ending the move. A glorious opportunity now fell to the visitors. Play had been located in the centre, when a general breakaway occurred. Bowen threaded his way through and at last found himself without an opponent with the exception of Muir. When he arrived within half a dozen yards of the goal he steadied himself for his final effort, and instead of shooting he came a cropper, amid cries of derision from the spectators. Result;- Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 goal, Everton nil. Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer and Molyneux, backs; Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Taylor, Toman, Proudfoot, Settle, and Gee. Forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Baddeley, goal; Davies and Blackett, backs; Griffiths, Pheasant, and Fleming, half-backs; Bowen, Harper, Beats, Worton, and Miller, forwards.

THE WANDERERS BEAT EVERTON
Birmingham Daily Post – Monday 26 March 1900
Following up their consistency excellent form in out matches, the Wanderers at Goodison Park gave another capital display, and by their victory have had the pleasure of obtaining four points from Everton this season, thus completely reversing last year’s result, when Everton won both games. That their success on Saturday was thoroughly well deserved was beyond question, for at all points there was a superiority displayed that even the most enthusiastic Everton supporter could not but honestly admit. The forwards were keen on the ball, accurate when concerted action was indulged in, and the shooting with but few exceptions was all that could be desired. What the result would have been but for the smart custodianship of Muir was quite evident to all who witnessed the game, and Everton by escaping with the narrowest possible margin of defeat must be accounted lucky. With the team doing such useful work it would seem almost invidious to individualise, but at the same time criticism on the game would be quite incomplete were not special mention made of the excellent quality of play by the half-backs. The three gave one of the finest displays that have been witnessed in the Goodison park enclosure, and there can be no doubt that to the excellence of their work was the success of the club mainly due. Their tackling and placing of the ball were features of the game, and when occasion demanded their assistance to the backs was invaluable. Had Bowen taken full advantage of the chances that were so ably opened out to him the result of the game would have been more in accordance with the general play. Blackett, Davies, and Baddeley were, on occasions, hotly pressed, especially in the closing stages of the game, and all three came out of the ordeal with credit. The Everton team played by fits and starts, and though they indulged in many fine passages there was not the dash in the final efforts which characterised the methods of their opponents. The right-wing pair were at fault, but the greatest disparity was witnessed in the rearguard, for Balmer and Molyneux did not uphold the reputation they made at the Molyneux grounds a week previously. Muir was sorely tried, but came well through the engagement for he had no possible chance of saving the goal which was netted in the first five minutes of the game. Taking a broad view of the contest, the Wanderers certainly deserved their success, for, man for man, they were smarter on the ball, and more resourceful when in possession of it.

MURMURS FROM THE MERSEY
March 31, 1900. The Lancashire Evening Post
Something the gentleman had probably not calculated on occurred at Goodison Park, last Saturday, in the midst of the match with the “Wolves” when one of the spectators called out; “Play up, Englishmen”! In any other assembly of my fellow countrymen a round of impartial applause would have followed; but it was far otherwise at Goodison Park; he had meeting been a pro-Boer one, and the appeal “Three Cheers for Joe Chamberlain,” instead of “Play-Up, Englishmen,” the effect could not have been stormier. The mistaken patriot was in deadly peril. Those immediately about him began to hiss and groan; the noise spread round the stands; and I saw fair ladies standing on tip-toe pointing towards the recreant with the ferrules of their dainty sunshades deliberately inclined, as if like the Roman ladies of the amphitheatre, who beat their thumbs when the gladiator was about to slay the Christian captive, to signify “no mercy:”! While the whole “gate” 10,000 strong, rose en masses and howled at him. Then occurred an act of self-devotion which, once seen, can never be forgotten. Heedless of his own safety, anxious rushed forward to throw himself between the crowd and their victim. “You may kill him,” he seemed to say, “but it will be over my dead body.”Suddenly, he stopped in his heroic resolve; the ruddy line of native determination was sicklied o'er by the pale cast of discretion; he paused, swayed to and from hesitatingly; finally retreated into the club house. But it was his face for a moment, and I read in his eyes the thought of his heart: “How will the club go on without me?”
They got the intruder off the ground at last, paid him his money back, I am told, still shouting defiantly “Play up, Englishmen!” The crowd was mainly English, but I am pleased to say he was the only man there to encourage the “Wolves” to beat Everton. He did as much mischief as he could while he had the opportunity, for I firmly believe the “Wolves” would never have won the match if he hadn't cried, “Play up, Englishmen!” At any rate, I defy anybody to prove that they would. He had no imitators fortunately or heaven only knows what the score against Everton would have been. The demeanour of the great bulk of the crowd, as I have tried to show, was most humane and correct. They could easily have put him to death; instead of which they gave him his money back, and then cheered enthusiastically for the Angl0-Scotch team of “Toffees,” and groaned for Englishman in my life, to think the Goodison Park crowd could rise superior to national prejudices and show that as Englishmen they supportered the Scotchmen. There is nothing parochial about Everton's patriotism.

FIXTURES FOR THIS DAY
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 31 March 1900
Everton are at home for the second week in succession, having to face the Rovers, who earlier in the season defeated them at Ewood Park. For some time the once famous cup-tie fighters consistently languished in company with Glossop at the bottom of the table, but recently they have improved their position by a series of victories which now reach double figures. Everton will certainly be expected to improve upon last Saturday’s display, a repetition of which would be sufficient to almost extinguish the enthusiasm of their most ardent supporters. The Rovers have nothing to give away, and will undoubtedly exert themselves to the utmost to make their position in the First League more secure by the addition of a couple of points. Everton will therefore have no easy task if they mean to emerge successfully.
Everton v Blackburn Rovers, at Goodison Park.- Referee, T. Helme; Linesmen, F.J. Broughton and J.H. Lightbown. Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer, and Crelly, backs; Wolstenholme, Boyle, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Toman, McDonald, Oldham, and Gee, forwards. Kick off 3.30.
Lancashire Combination
Blackburn reserve v Everton reserve, Blackburn. Everton;- Kitchen, goal; Eccles and Watson, backs; Cowell, Green, and Blythe, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Proudfoot, Chadwick, and Gary, forwards. Train leaves Exchange Station at 12.5 Kick-off 3.30.