CHURCHMEN AND CONSERVATIVES AND LICENSING REFORM
Southport Guardian - Saturday 02 February 1901
Mr. J. J. Cockshott, J.P., writes to the “Guardian ” as a Churchman on the subject of licensing reform, and in the course of his letter says: Nothing is more certain than this—viz. that the Conservative party would be rent in twain if the Ministry made an attack on the organised domination of the brewing interest. The local associations of the Conservative party are for the most part officered by persons more or less interested financially in the liquor trade. The chairman of theLiverpool Working Men’s Conservative Association is in the trade. “ King John of Everton,” a Liverpool brewer, who objected to the backdoors of slum public-houses being closed to customers, was elected to succeed Lord Derby as Conservative Lord Mayor of Liverpool. Lord Cranborne’s Conservative successor in the Darwen division is a brewer. Mr. Gilleat’s seat in the Widnes divisionis filled by a Liverpool brewer, and Sir H. Howorth’s successor in one of the divisions of Salford is also a brewer. The chairman of the Southport Divisional Conservative Association is the solicitor to the Licensed Victuallers' Association, and the chairman of the Southport Conservative Association is a wine and spirit dealer. And so all through England and Wales—in ward, parish, borough, or county division——the same state of things prevails. How, then, can the Ministers of a party officered in this way be expected to make an “attack on the organised domination of the brewing interest?” It is not from the Cabinet that we may expect such an attack to be made. But although the Trade has throttled the Conservative Cabinet, it cannot force upon the Ministry legislative proposals which are unacceptable to Churchmen. Hence the deadlock. The Conservative organisations throughout the country draw largely upon Churchmen, who are in favour of reasonable licensing reform, for moral and material support. Such Churchmen are annual subscribers to the party funds; at election contests they give donations to the candidates’ election expenses; they work and speak and vote; they supply respectability and moral influence which attract voters to the poll. The Government cannot afford to give offence to these supporters in order to please the trade. Ministers know that between these two wings of the Conservative party there is and can be no agreement whatever on the subject of licensing reform. Therefore, notwithstanding that the Government has a large majority at its back, and has been offered reinforcements by Mr. Herbert Gladstone, it is, from the constitution of the party, unable to ‘“take the matter into its own hands.” To attempt this would be to bring to an acute stage the fundamental differences which exist in the party, and there is no one in the present Cabinet possessed of the statesmanlike qualities which would be required in order to rally the moral convictions of the country to his side. To whom then are we to look? I think there is but one answer, and that is, to the bishops of our church. If they will resolutely pursue their campaign in the House of Lords in favour of licensing reform and unflinchingly fight Lord Salisbury there, they will accentuate the difference which exists between the two wings of the Conservative party, and earnest-minded laymen will flock to their support in the country. At present we have to choose between Mr. Balfour and Sir Henry Campbeil-Bannerman, and we cannot trust either of them on this question. Some of us are supporting the movement in favour of Lord Peel’s report mainly because there is no other standard around which we can rally on behalf of the State against the trade. But as Churchmen and Conservatives we should like to follow our natural leaders. The chiefs of our political party are enslaved to the trade; so we turn, not to another political party, with which we have no sympathy, but to the bishops of our church, whom we are ready to follow along the path of temperance reform. I firmly believe that if they will-act fearlessly they will soon possess an influence which will compel the Cabinet to choose between the church and the trade, instead of playing one off against the other, as they now succeed in doing.
LIVERPOOL CHAT
Football Chat and Athletic World - Wednesday 06 February 1901
By “Mersey Mentor”
The chief topic of conversation in football circles is of course the Cup competition and our clubs’ chances therein. The same old crowds who had arranged to go to Southampton and Nottingham on the original date will follow Everton and Liverpool on Saturday, and so the players will not be without encouragement. I have a fancy that both teams will win-Everton certainly ought to, and Liverpool should have no difficulty if they only show the ability they undoubtedly possess.
THE EVERTON v. SOUTHAMPTON CUP-TIE
Liverpool Mercury - Wednesday 06 February 1901
The cessation of football for the past two weeks has, if anything, greatly increased the ardour of the immense number of Everton’s supporters, who are confidently looking forward to have last year’s defeat at Southampton handsomely revenged in the Cup tie on Saturday next. It is undoubtedly a great incentive to any club when playing away from home to have their efforts supported by the cheers of their followers and friends. On Saturday next the Everton players will be singularly fortunate in this respect, as a large number of enthusiasts are going to Southampton by the Great Western Railway excursion. At the request of numerous intending passengers, Messrs. C.W. Bullock and Co., the Great Western Railway agents have arranged for the corridor special to leave the Mersey Railway (Central Low Level) at 12 10 (Friday midnight), instead of 6 40 a.m., as originally intended before the postponement. The special will arrive at Southampton before seven a.m., thus giving eight hours for sight-seeing before the match. The team and officials travel to Basingstoke on Friday, proceeding to Southampton on Saturday morning. They, however, return by the special at 6.10 p.m. on Saturday.
EXCURSION TO SOUTHAMPTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 07 February 1901
At the request of numerous intending passengers, Messrs C.W. Bullock and Co., the Great Western Railway agents, have arranged for the postponed excursion to leave Mersey Railway Central Station Low Level at 12.10 to-morrow (Friday) midnight, instead of 6.10 on Saturday morning, as originally intended. The special which will be composed of modern corridor carriages, is due at Southampton before seven a.m. Saturday, allowing about eight hours for sight-seeing before the match. This match is exciting great interest amongst the large number of Everton supporters, who are confidently looking forward to the avenging of last year’s defeat; and as nothing gives a team more encouragement when playing from home than the cheers of their friends, the Everton players on Saturday will be exceptionally fortunate in this respect, as a large number of their enthusiastic supporters are going to Southampton by the special corridor train. Mr. Molyneux, the officials, and the team travel to Basingstoke by the Great Western route- to-morrow (Friday), where they stop the night, proceeding to Southampton on Saturday morning, they will, however, return by the special leaving Southampton at 6.10 p.m. on Saturday.
FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 08 February 1901
EVERTON v SOUTHAMPTON
For this English Cup Tie match at Southampton to-morrow, the following team has been selected to represent Everton. Goa, Muir; backs, Balmer and Eccles; half-backs, Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott; forwards, Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Turner. An excursion train leaves Central Station (Low Level) at 12.10 midnight, the kick off is to take place at three o’clock tomorrow afternoon.
EVERTON COMBINATION v LIVERPOOL RESERVE
A friendly match will be played at Goodison park tomorrow. The following are the teams;- Everton; Goal, Kitchen; backs, Halliday and Crelly; half-backs, Blythe, Green, and R. Taylor; forwards, Corrin, Dawson, Worthington, Gray and Chadwick. Liverpool; Goal, Storer; backs Glover and M Orris; half-backs, Parry, Hunter, and Ferrier; forwards, Soulsby, Hunter, McArdle, Davies, and Satterthwaite. Kick-off at 3.30.
FAMOUS CLUBS AND GROUNDS
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 09 February 1901
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
By Perseus
The Black Country seems to me strangely typical of the football played within its busy borders. Rough, and devoid of even remotest claims to the picturesque, its dismal pit banks and blazing foundries yet bespeak the very soul of business. So does its football. Catch the famous old Wolves—good name, for they are real worriers—in Cup tie mood, and you will hold up both hands for them, not as accomplished masters of the arts of the game, not as football scientists, but as the most vigorous, go-ahead, and gritty dashers it has been your lot to look upon. There is no reminiscence of the perfect precision in passing characteristic say of the old North Enders, no individual excellence of the Corinthian order; there is, however, in overflowing measure full-flavoured dash, unquenchable determination, and never-wearying persistence. All this, I say, when the Wolves be in their true Cup tie humour. Presently, there is, alas, a falling away, yet who knows that even in this season the team may not yet rise again to the height of its traditions ; and anyhow the Wolves will remain engraved on the memory as whole-hearted bustlers, who have rushed into hopeless defeat many a team which in the matter of pure skill may have been immeasurably above them.
BORN RUSHERS.
This characteristic has been in evidence ever since the birth of the club, for J. B. Brodie, whom we know to-day as referee, set the rushing style from the start. Perhaps we remember him better than anyone else actually in at the founding this terrible pack of Wolves, though J. Baynton is a name very familiar to many ears. And where did the Wolves spring from? Strange to say they were of saintly birth, for the nucleus of the future Cup winners was formed in 1877 by pupils of St. Luke's, Blakenhall, parish, I believe, on the outskirts of the town. Whence, then, the name of Wanderers? Well, in the club’s early days an existing organisation this name united forces with St. Luke’s, and subsequently there was yet another addition. There, in fewest possible words is the story of the club’s birth, and in the sense that the go-every-inch-of-the-way methods which established the Wanderers as the premier team of the town have made fame in the wider circle of football generally, the child was indeed father to the man.
STEPPING STONES TO SUCCESS.
You have had a glance at the foundation of the club. Now to speak of the series of achievements which improved the Wanderers’ position into that of the best of any football club in the town. From these important performances dates the wider career of the Wolves; and it is scarcely possible to over-estimate the significant fillip given thereby to the young organisation. Naturally comes the inquiry what were these early triumphs which so consolidated the Wanderers? And if I merely reply that on three successive occasions they signally defeated Stafford-road the point will be thoroughly appreciated by members of the old school. Football followers of later date, however, will look at Stafford-road and wonder what august club bore that name. sufficient that in the amateur days of twenty years since it was one of the most powerful combinations and was fit to meet even the best of first-class clubs. One of its members was our latter-day legislator, Charles Crump, a vice-president of the F.A., one of the well-known TransferCommission, a member of the Emergency Committee, and, I believe, of the League Appeals Committee, Stafford-road, I repeat, were a fine team, but about 1883 the Wolves struck their death-blow the aforementioned trio of triumphs. Henceforward the Wanderers were the leading club, and Stafford-road did not long survive their deposition.
A 450 MINUTES CUP TIE.
In proportion as it disheartened the latter this succession of victories inspired the Wanderers, and soon we see them candidates for the English Cup. The first tie they ever played in the competition was against Long Eaton Rangers, a Derbyshire club of fair merit. This they won, but they had to try a year or two ere their whole-souled effort met with its due reward in the demonstration to the football world at large of their sterling worth. And the immediate cause of their leaping into fame was a never-to for-gotten fight with Aston Villa. It was a tie drawn to be decided at perry Barr. An easy thing for the Villans was everywhere anticipated, and the crowd of disappointed Brummagem men positively gasped with astonishment when the Wolves actually effected a draw. Extra time failed to decide the issue. Then came the replay, on a snowy, ice-clad enclosure at Wolverhampton- a stern struggle under conditions so perverse that protests had been made by both captains. In spite of this the stirring fight was also kept up on this occasion for two hours. Still a draw! A third match was necessary, and through that protest Wolves were once more at home, fighting out another two hours without settling the question; and only at the fourth meeting did Villa, on their own ground, defeat and dismiss the tenacious Wanderers. That dogged struggle, lasting seven and a half hours, brought the Wanderers right into the forefront.
MORE CUP ACHIEVEMENTS
Here in this magnificent, barrier set up against the powerful Villans lay the promise of the dashing Cup tie performances which were to mark the Wolves’ future. In this particular season-1886-7-Aston carried off the trophy, and so we may reckon that the Wanderers who could only be beaten after such a protracted effort, were not far from it themselves. This tie, by the by, was in the third round. Better things were to follow, for in each of the three succeeding seasons the Wanderers ran into the last four; indeed, in 1888-9 they reached the final itself. Still, a season further forward they lost to the Rovers, and at this time we find that in five consecutive seasons they had once been in the final, twice besides in the semi-finals, while in each of the five years they were beaten by the club which ultimately won the Cup. The next season they go down in round No.3 but that proves only the prelude to happy consummation of their hopes and crowning of the above brilliant record in the winning of the Cup in 1892-3.
THE FALLOWFIELD FINAL. C
Circumstances combined to make this particular triumph historic. The decree had gone forth that henceforth the classic enclosure the Oval should be reserved for cricket. Thus a new ground for the final was necessary in this eventful season. It was left to Everton and the Wolves to do battle in the last stage. Eyes were turned towards a fine athletic enclosure at Fallowfield, Manchester, and there a vast crowd of enthusiasts congregated on the appointed day. Sixty thousand had been suggested as the number the ground could accommodate if necessary, but with two-thirds that tremendous total present barriers were burst, and there were scenes of excitement and confusion which will be forgotten by many an unfortunate pressman who had to work under supremest difficulty during that stubbornly-fought contest. And Fallowfield has been associated ever since with that final. But if the arrangements broke down in this way there was one very satisfactory feature, viz., that the gate receipts of £2,552 were up that date a record.
THE WINNING ELEVEN
Wolves returned home in highest glee, for though only one goal was scored, it fell to them; thus the Cup was in their keeping at last. Here is another fact which makes that final historic. The victorious eleven was composed exclusively of Englishmen, half a dozen of them born within six miles the club's head-quarters—a notable circumstance when one considers how other leading clubs were importing Scotchmen and paying them very fancy salaries, too. In goal was that well-known custodian, W. C. Rose, previously of Swifts and North End note. The splendid Baugh and Mason partnership had been dissolved, but to fill the place of the latter there had risen another sturdy defender in the person of G. Swift. In the keystone position, centre half—was talented Harry Allen, the holder of three Scottish caps—a record, I believe, for the club—and on either side were Malpass, with his wonderful grit and perseverance, and Kinsey, than whom there has never been a more inveterate worker. In the forward line were Topham, Wykes, Butcher, Wood, and Griffin. The cleverest of the quintette was Harry Wood, who shares with Baugh the distinction of having taken part in all three of the Wanderers’ finals, and who still plays a capital game for Southampton, notwithstanding the fact that it is 12 years since the first of those three finals. To single out one other forward let me say that Topham was the Oxford and Corinthian amateur, and is one of the only three or four amateurs, who have won an English Cup medal since the legalisation of professionalism, one other player so distinguished being the old North Ender, Dr. Mills-Roberts. This team, like former Wanderers' elevens, relied on go and vigour, and thus they upset the calculations of the scientific Toffees.
PECULIARITIES OF THE CROWD.
In the final in 1896,f0r the third time the Wanderers had to strike their colours, this time to Sheffield Wednesday ;since then they have not been quite so prominent in the Cup. As Leaguers they have performed moderately well on the whole, having twice been in the third position; but their reputation rests on Cup ties. To-day they are not in very flourishing condition, financial support having recently been only sparing. Something may be attributable to the rather poor form of the eleven, but to speak candidly I am afraid the spectators have proved somewhat fickle. Last season the crowd got an ill name on another ground, that of barracking, and one of the home players, viz., Tonks, withdrew from the game on account of his treatment. Of course, the bad behaviour was traceable to a certain section; pity it is that the malcontents do not find their examples in such sterling sportsmen as Mr. T. H. Sidney, Mr. J. H. Addenbrooke, and other courteous officials connected with the club management.
PRESENT-DAY TEAM.
The present team, captained by Hillary Griffiths, a finely-built half-back, boasts no outstanding stars, but includes a number of sound club players, as, for instance, Baddeley, a small goalkeeper whose springiness. however, helps him to reach all sorts of shots; Griffiths, Pheasant, and Fleming, three hard-working halves; Beats, a successful centre of the progressive stamp, and Miller, whose crosses from the left are wonderfully accurate. I had intended to devote paragraph to international Wolves, but already my available space is filled. Let me merely mention the names of some of the Englishmen who have secured caps :—H. Allen. J. B. Brodie, G. Kinsey, H. Wood, A. Fletcher, C. Mason, R. Baugh, C. Rose and K. Topham; the first four were capped against the Scots—highest honour of all. The ground of the club is among the finest. The playing pitch has usually a lovely carpet of green, the spectators are not too close to the players, and the accommodation is good, the terraces at the Molineux Hotel end forming a splendid natural stand such as we have seen on no other first-class ground in the country.
THE SAINTS KNOCKED OUT IN THE FIRST ROUND
The Football Echo and Sports Gazette, Saturday, February 9, 1901
EVERTON AVENGE THEIR LAST SEAOSN’S DEFEAT
AND ARE RETURNED WINNERS BY 3-1
SAINTS DEFEATED BUT NOT DISGRACED
ABSENCE OF WOOD AND CHADWICK HANDICAPPED THEM
SOUTHAMPTON v EVERTON
By Vectis
Although the Saints, to give the team of the Southampton F.C. their old name, and the one by which they have made fame for themselves, did not win the English Cup last year, they came nearer to doing so than they had been before, as they figured in the final at the Crystal Palace on that fateful day when the hopes of the South were centred on the eleven players from the Southern seaport. Though only belonging to what our friends up North would call a third-rate League, they had nevertheless defeated Everton, Newcastle United, and West Bromwich Albion, all First League clubs. Of these West Bromwich Albion had won the Cup twice—in 1887-8 and 1891-2, whilst Everton had been in the final for the same trophy on two occasions, namely, in 1892-3, when Wolverhampton Wanderers, with the assistance of Harry Wood, who to-day captained the Saintly host for the second time against the men of Toffee defeated them, and again in 1896-7, Aston Villa just beat them by three goals to one. How Bury beat the Saints by four goals to nil at the Palace on April 21st last all the world—the football world, at any rate—knows, and to say that disappointment was keenly felt at Southampton and the rest of the South is but to mildly express the state of things which existed. Whilst writing of Cup-ties—and they, of course, formed the theme of all football scribes to-day—it may not be out of place to once more give to the football-loving-public a true and faithful epitome of what the Saints have accomplished in the years that are past in regard to their engagements in the English Cup-ties.
By a remarkable coincidence the names of Southampton and Everton were again drawn together for the first round this year, and a further coincidence is found in the fact that Mr. A. Green, who so efficiently discharged the arduous and onerous duties of referee on the last occasion when the two teams met, was selected, by chance or otherwise, to officiate to-day. To return to the realms of reminiscence once more, it may not be uninteresting to give the teams which met on Archer’s Ground—or should it be The Dell?—on January 27th of last year, when Southampton administered the “order of the knock” to Everton to the tune of three goals to nil. They lined out as follows:
Southampton; Robinson; Meehan, Durber; Meston, Chadwick, Petrie; Turner, Yates, Farrell, Wood, Milward. Everton; Muir; Eccles, Balmer; Wolstenholme, Blythe, Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, Gray. The first half was strenuously contested, and though the Saints had the better of the play the interval came with a blank score sheet. Then a change came over the scene, but it was not until well on towards the end of the game that Milward opened the score for the Saints against his old comrades. Then Turner added a second goal from a grand sling across by Milward, who in the last minute scored a third goal, and thus had the distinction of figuring prominently in the only goals which were obtained in the match.
Turning to to-day’s teams, we find that Everton had only made two changes in the side which suffered defeat last year. Booth, a player of repute, appeared at centre-half, vice Blythe, whilst on the outside left appeared that old favourite of the Southampton crowd Jee Turner, who after leaving the Saints, who had practically made him, had gone to Stoke, and thence to Everton, for whom he has been a good scorer. There were several alterations in the Saintly side, however, the two “Peters "—Meehan and Durber of that ilk —Bob Petrie, and Jack Farrell had sought fresh fields and pastures new, whilst Jimmy Yates, who partnered Archie Turner twelve months ago, was on the reserve list. In their places had stepped in C. B. Fry, that prince of athletes, Molyneux, an ex-Evertonian, Lee, a lad from “Dosset,” Toman, and Edgar Chadwick, two old Evertonians, and the latter of whom has proved himself one of the most prolific goal-getters in the Southern League. Whilst no one seems to have questioned that the Evertonians placed a better side in the field to-day than they did on the last occasion, there was a considerable divergence of opinion as to the superiority or otherwise of the side which did duty to-day for the Southern leaguers as compared with that which inflicted defeat on the Evertonians twelve months ago. One thing is certain, and defies contradiction, and that is that the Saints as constituted to-day have proved themselves to be far more effective in front of goal in their matches this season than they were last season, whilst it is impossible to find any serious fault with the back division. However, it is a free country, and people are welcome to whatever opinion they may like to hold, and it is no exaggeration to say that whilst the Saints were calmly confident of success, the majority of their supporters shared that confidence in their ability to once more pull through and qualify for the Second Round proper. The gates were opened at one o'clock, and the spaces allotted to those who had the nimble shilling were quickly appropriated, whilst a constant and ever increasing stream of people flocked in through the various entrances. Bad news travels fast, and it was not long before it became known that Harry Wood and Arthur Chadwick were quite unable to turn cut as a consequence of their injuries sustained by them in the match with Millwall last week. Their absence, although good substitutes were found in Yates and Killean, most seriously handicapped the chances of the Saints. With the knowledge, however, that the Southern Leaguers always play a great game when “faced by fearful odds,” many and fervent were the hopes expressed that the Saints would once more pull through. The Saints’ little “mascot”” came on the ground, and was greeted with an encouraging cheer. He proceeded to turn the inevitable cartwheels, and was as usual bombarded with oranges. The Southampton Town Band took up a position in the centre of the arena, and under the skilled leadership of Mr. A. Watts played a selection of popular music. A boy perambulated the ground with a board showing the alteration in the Saints’ team, and as it was forcibly brought home to the minds of the crowd, the vast majority of which only naturally favoured the Saints, that Wood and Arthur Chadwick were indeed and in truth unable to turn out, faces fell to the length of fiddles in many quarters. A British crowd, however, is never longin a despondent mood, and the one at Southampton to-day quickly recovered its equanimity, and hoped for the best. Still there was the feeling ever present all the same that the chances of the Saints of repeating their meritorious performance of last year had been very seriously diminished: by the unfortunate accidents which resulted from that memorable match with Millwall, At ten minutes to three agreat cheer heralded the approach of Everton, and it was repeated a minute later when Robinson led the Saints on to the ground. It was then seen as the teams lined up that they were composed as follows:
Southampton; Robinson (Captain); C,B. Fry, Molyneux; Meston, Killean, Lee; Turner, Yates, Toman, Chadwick, Milward. Everton; Muir; Eccles, Balmer; Wolstenholme, Booth, Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (Captain), Turner. Referee; Mr. A. Green (West Bromwich). Linesmen; Messrs W. Rawlins (Walsall) and H.C. Pratt (London).
When the teams took the field there could not have been less than 12,000 spectators present, though there was room for thousands more. About 200 of these present had made the long trip from Everton, and though small in numbers, they made up for it by the exuberance of their spirits, and their hearty encouragement to their favourites. After the usual preliminary kick about Robinson, who captained the Saints’ team, walked to the centre to spin with Settle. After a “sticker” Settle won, and chose to defend from the Milton-road end. There was hardly a breath of wind stirring however, and the choice of ends gave but little advantage. Toman started punctually to time, and Welstenholme was the first Evertonian to boot away. Killean was prominent in defence, and Chadwick gained ground by a clever overhead kick, but Eccles got to the ball before Yates. Then Sharp was seen sailing away on the right. He got round Lee and Molyneux, but Fry raced across and kicked out. Fromthe throw in Proudfoot sent in a fine high shot, which Robinson fisted away. Then ensued a pretty bit of work. In inimitable fashion Chadwick and Milward worked down on the left, and Chadwick sent in a superb shot, which Muir got away. Milward fastened on the ball, and grazed the rigging with a fast grounder. An appeal for a corner was disallowed, and from the goal kick Everton again became dangerous, but some magnificent work by Fry kept the visitors back. Meston was having some rare old tussles with Turner, and was nearly always too good for him. Then the Saintly Turner evoked a round of deserved cheers by the manner in which he tricked Abbott and Eccles, a corner eventuating from his efforts. This was safely negotiated, and then the Saints kept up a terrific bombardment, but Muir was safe, very safe. The next item of note was a truly marvellous stop by Fry, who was going great guns, whilst Killean and Lee, with Molyneux, were doing all that was required. Turner was fouled by Wolstenholme, and from the resultant free a melee ensued right in the Everton goalmouth. Milward nearly rushed the ball through, and then play was suspended whilst “Pa” Jarvis ‘removed a dog which claimed acquaintance With Molyneux. On the resumption Lee was conspicuous in getting the ball away when in an awkward position. Further relief fell to the Saints through Sharp fouling Lee, and then Meston, robbing Joe Turner, sent to Arthur Turner, who hesitated and had his kick charged down by Eccles. Fry came, to the rescue, however, and when well on the Everton side of the half-way line, tipped on to Chadwick, who missed by feet. Play slackened down for a spell, but then the Saints came again, and Sammy Meston shot wide with a “Long Tom.” Still keeping up the pressure the Saints fairly worried the Everton defence, but Balmer was playing a great game, his kicking beg hard and accurate. Molyneux came to the front with a huge punt, but Chadwick perpetrated a mild little foul, which, however, did not avail much to Everton. A further free to Everton left Settle with no one to beat but Robinson at 20 yards range, but the International was equal to the occasion, and saved grandly. Fry took the ball on, and Yates and Arthur Turner raced off in pursuit, but were checked by Booth. Settle illegally charged Fry, who embraced Mother Earth, and from the resultant free Killean forced a corner. A magnificent chance was missed, but a minute later Edgar Chadwick caused the welkin to ring as he directed the ball past Muir into the corner of the net. It was a great goal, and was obtained twenty-eight minutes from the start. This put fresh life into the Saints, and a lovely bit of passing, in which all their forwards participated, was only eventually spoiled by Toman impeding Muir. A foul thrown in by Lee on the halfway line did not availEverton much, but a free against Meston spelt danger. Molyneux conceded a corner. Robinson had to fist away, and Molyneux relieved an awkward situation by kicking out. Settle had to be helped limping off the field, and on the throw up the Saints again took up the attack, thanks to the versatile Edgar Chadwick, who with Milward and Toman, the ex-Evertonians, seemed to revel in giving their old comrades a hot time. Then Joe Turner, who had got over on the right wing by some peculiar corkscrew movements, got down and gave to Sharp, who sent in a rasper, which Robinson fisted away. Returning to the other end Turner called on Muir, who had to run out to clear. Lee then pulled up Sharp in rattling style, but Sharp came along with a wet sail, and taking the ball on the run again tested Robinson, who, however, cleared. Sharp was splendidly fed, and was always a thorn in the side of the Saints’ defence when he got on the Saints side of the line. The pace which had been a cracker for some minutes slackened down again, and Settle made his reappearance amidst cheers. A hugs boot up the field by Molyneux left the ball at Yates’ feet, and Jimmy shot hard at Muir, who kicked away. Joe Turner for once in a way got round Meston, and sent across to Sharp, who was brought down by Molyneux. A confident appeal for a foul by Everton was disallowed, and then Robinson saved in the nick of time from Settle. At the other end, where the Saints quickly found themselves, Muir brought off a great save, and was loudly cheered. The interval was rapidly approaching, but the Saints were pot done with, and Milward, taking a flying pass from Chadwick, gave Muir a hot shot, which he disposed of. Turner then fooled both Abbott and Booth, and the interval was immediately blown with the score: Southampton 1 Everton 0
It was just on four when Proudfoot restarted for the final moiety of what had up till now been a keen and exciting game. The visitors at once attacked, and Fry luckily cleared. A foul by Meston looked dangerous, but it was got away. Then from an altogether unnecessary foul by Yates Everton had equalised within a minute of the restart by Settle, who apparently scored from a melee. It was a disappointment to the home crowd and players, as on their merits it was a goal which Everton should never have obtained. For a time the Saints seemed to be demoralised, and seeing this Everton made strenuous efforts to gain the lead. But for Robinson, who rushed through the ruck and saved, there might have been further disaster. Play was not altogether too pleasant, and it developed into a scramble for a time, but then the Saints pulled themselves together, and showed a bit of their old form. Everton, however, had most of the attack, and Robinson saved twice in rapid succession from Settle and Proudfoot. Arthur Turner was very closely watched, nearly always having three men in attendance on him. Nevertheless he managed to get away at times, and for quite five minutes the Saints were down close to the Everton goal. Once Yates headed right into Muir's hands, and Balmer kicking on enabled Everton to attack once more, and Settle twice narrowly missed scoring. The Saints’ quintette then got going again, but Toman was off-side, and Fry and Lee got their heads to volleys by Eccles and Balmer. Off-side then stopped Everton’s onward rush, and Chadwick and Yates made a determined attack, which was frustrated. Proudfoot raced through, and was brought down a terrible purler by Lee just outside the twelve yards’ line. The free, however, was safely negotiated, A corner given by Meston enabled Everton to press hard for some minutes, but Meston brought much needed relief. Try as they would the Saints could not seem to get into their stride, and for a time at any rate seemed a different team to that which had performed so brilliantly in the first half. Then Chadwick and Milward got away, and reached the Everton lines, where Turner was badly fouled by Balmer. The free went outside, however. Everton were not long before they were attacking again, but their shooting at this stage was wild. Proudfoot sustained an injury, and the game was suspended whilst he was attended to by the Everton trainer. On the chuck up Everton still had matters very much their own way, and it was only occasionally that the Saints were able to make an incursion into Toffeeland. Fry was the next to concede a corner, and from this Taylor headed the ball past Robinson, and so gave Everton the lead. This reverse did not dismay the Saints, who went for all they were worth on the resumption, Chadwick getting right down to Muir before he was pulled up by Balmer. There was still fifteen minutes to go, and Yates raced through, but could only strike the side of the rigging. Everton seemed to be imbued with that confidence, which is engendered by success, and at all times were able to hold their own. A very thick foul on the part of Abbott went unnoticed, but Killean was equally as bad, in fact the play degenerated all round. Toman had a chance, but kicked straight at Balmer. Time after time the Saintly Turner tried to get through, but found Balmer too good. Chadwick and Milward tried their best, but luck seemed to be dead against them, and nothing could come off. Joe Turner got winded from an encounter with Meston, and also hurt his leg. There were still five minutes to go, and remembering what the Saints accomplished last year in the corresponding match, there was still time for them to pull the match out of the fire. A free against Sharp gave them a chance, but Balmer booted back, and Taylor missed an easy chance. Everton, content with their lead, played anyhow, and chiefly kicked out. Once Chadwick did get down, and fed Milward, but it was a spasmodic effort, and came to nothing. The sun of the “Hope of the South” was slowly but gradually setting, and just on time Joe Turner had the pleasure which he had long sighed for of scoring against his old opponents, beating Robinson with a fast low drive after a magnificent exhibition of passing. This was the final agony, and when time came Everton had reversed the decision of last year, and had won handsomely, the final score reading: Everton 3 Southampton 1
THROUGH SAINTLY SPECTACLES.
The Football Echo and Sports Gazette, Saturday, February 9 1901
(BY “ RECORDER.”)
It was a singular coincidence that Southampton and Everton should again be drawn together in the first stage of the English Cup Competition, and as history repeated itself in one respect, we, the partisans of the Saints, sincerely trusted that it would also do so as far as the ultimate Issue was concerned.
The coincidence was continued in the history of the clubs. In the career of Southampton during recent years Everton are intimately connected by reason of the fact that the Liverpool suburb has become the “happy” hunting ground of Southampton emissaries, who have secured no less than seven players from this quarter during the last three seasons.
With one exception they have all rendered, and some are still rendering excellent service for the club of their adoption.
On the other hand, Southampton has contributed to Everton one member of the team which did duty for them to-day. I say that Joe Turner was a contribution of the Saints, advisedly, for, though he hails from another district, it was in this town that he made his reputation.
In view of the foregoing facts the game to-day was calculated to prove an immense attraction. The weather, ever an important factor in outdoor gatherings, was the only circumstance which caused doubt.
To-day’s dawn discovered the sky hidden behind a vast white curtain of clouds, through Which the sun, some hours later, endeavoured in vain to pierce.
The atmosphere, however, was dry and mild, and the wind blowing from a quarter which usually sends no rain, meteorological experts viewed the outlook with confidence.
The same climaticconditions obtained during the whole of the morning; consequently hopes of a pleasant afternoonseemed destined to be realised.
It was easy to perceive that an important event was about to take place within the town. The usual Saturday morning procession of pedestrians had assumed enormous dimensions before noon, and a number of persons were to be seen wearing the buttonholes of red and white, the colours of the Southampton Club.
This augmentation to the populace was due to a considerable influx of excursionists from all parts of the county.
As time wore on and more trains discharged their human loads at the railway stations the main thoroughfares became congested for a while, but were eventually relieved by the opening of the football ground, through whose gates people poured at a great rate.
Two o'clock saw some four thousand people present, with scores being added to the number every minute, and eight persons out of ten were adorned with the familiar favours of the Saints.
The scene was a most animated one, though hardly picturesque, as the weather was still dull, and nearly everyone was attired in sombre-hued garments.
Nevertheless there was much that brightened the view in the bustling activity in every part of the enclosure, and the selections of the Southampton Town Band, whose uniform, with those of a few soldiers, were the only touch of colour in the great gathering.
An interesting diversion was caused by the appearance of the Saints “mascot,” who was heartily cheered. As he entered the arena he fell, and some people instantly regarded this as a bad omen. On the way to the ground I learnt that Wood and Arthur Chadwick would not play, and a visit to the dressing-room confirmed the statement. Needless to say when the news got abroad it created a deep disappointment.
There was just a spark of consolation, though, and that was the knowledge that the substitutes requisitioned—Killean and Yates—were both in the pink of condition, having undergone special training during the week.
There was no gainsaying the fact, however, that in the minds of the majority the changes tended to lessen the chances of Southampton winning; indeed, some in my neighbourhood predicted a victory for Everton as a result.
A quarter of an hour before the kick-off the terraces were packed with people, but plenty of room was to be found on both stands, although in most instances the vacant seats were numbered and reserved. The spectators numbered about 12,000.
At 2.57 the teams walked into the arena amid tumultuous applause. Everton, in royal blue shirts and white knickers, appeared first, and immediately after them came the Saints, with Robinson at their head.
The spin of the coin ended in Settle's favour, and he put the Saints to defend Archer's-road citadel.
At the start the teams were like two giants, conscious of each other's strength. Both manoeuvred for openings, at the same time endeavouring to conceal their strength.
The first five minutes yielded nothing of importance. It served to show, however, that the teams were evenly matched, and full of the fire of determination.
There was just’ one conclusion which might have been drawn from the opening stage, and that was that all the reckless statements that have been made alleging weakness on the part of the home defence were utterly untrue.
Both Turners were marked men. Arthur of that ilk had Abbott ever in close attendance. Nevertheless the right wing succeeded in bringing off one of his characteristic sprints, and was within an ace of getting through.
On the other hand, Meston shadowed Joe Turner very successfully, and it was obvious by the attitude of Fry that between the two Southampton defenders there was a complete understanding.
A most gratifying feature from a Southampton standpoint was the dash and cohesion of the home forwards. On the left, which seemed to bear the brunt of the fray, Edgar Chadwick and Milward worked like Trojans.
Up to this stage—quarter time—the Saints had, perhaps, held a slight advantage, and their play, on the whole, left little to be desired.
The famous amateur—C. B. Fry—was displaying his Boxing Day form, which is bestowing high praise, for on that occasion the Oxonian played one of the games of his career.
His partner, too, was exhibiting much coolness and steadiness, and altogether the defence showed an unbroken front.
There was a moment of anxiety, however, and that was occasioned by Proudfoot shipping through and driving hard. But Robinson, crouching like a tiger, sprang at the ball and fisted away.
This was the first time Everton had been dangerous, whereas on the other hand. the Saints were continually pressing.
A couple of openings which seemed promising were missed by the home forwards, but all their mistakes were fully atoned for when, 28 minutes after the start, Edgar Chadwick slipped by Balmer and scored.
A scene of indescribable enthusiasm ensued, hats, sticks, and umbrellas being waved.
On the restart the visitors went great guns for a few minutes, and their attack was rendered all the more dangerous by a temporary falling off of the Saintly rearguard, which also got mixed wup in an accountable manner.
However, on the threshold of the home goal Robinson was keeping a carefulguard, which the drives of Proudfoot and Settle, nor the lightning “obliques” of Skarp could overcome.
A regrettable accident occurred to Settle, the Everton captain, who injured his knee, and was compelled to retire. The visitors had the genuine sympathy of the spectators in their misfortune.
After five minutes’ absence, however, he returned amid loud cheers.
The closing stages of the half were contested in a most determined manner, and if anything the Evertonians, who fed Sharp assiduously, were having slightly the better of the argument. Immediately before the whistle blew Muir was in difficulty with a shot from Edgar Chadwick, but he eventually cleared very smartly.
I should imagine that the Saints’ partisans were quite satisfied when the interval arrived with the Saints leading by a goal.
Matters assumed an ugly aspect for the Saints immediately on resuming.
Everton at once instituted an attack, and in trying to clear Meston fouled. Edgar Chadwick kicked out, and Yates committed an irregularity, from the kick following which Settle scored.
The feelings of the home supporters dropped to zero on this event happening, while later on there was further occasion for apprehension, as Southampton appeared to have become demoralised, and it was only a stroke of good fortune that saved them.
Eventually the example of Robinson and Fry pulled the side together, and we had an advance by Southampton, in the course of which Yates neatly headed on a swinging kick by Lee. Muir, however, cleared with ease.
In spite of a week’s special training some of the home players undeniably fagged, though what they lacked in pace they endeavoured to make up by energy.
As the game wore on the Saints came again, and with their improvement the hopes of the crowd rose; they also fluctuated with the varying fortunes of the succeeding play.
A howl of reproach went up when Eccles pulled Turner down just outside the twelve yards’' limit, thus putting an untoward conclusion on a chance that seemed particularly rosy.
From this point Southampton’s sun seem to have set, and, taking in the situation, they redoubled their efforts.
For some time, though, the “Cherry Stripes” held their foes at bay. On the right wing Fry and Meston were playing superbly, while on the other side Lee and Molyneux did all that was required of them, but there was something lacking.
One could hardly tell on the spot what throw the Saints’ machinery out of gear, but the fact remains that it was dislocated, and the team was hard pressed.
Pressed by Joe Turner, Fry had to kick behind. The resultant corner was splendidly placed, and when Taylor headed in a second goal for the visitors the issue seemed settled.
Of course games have been won and lost in the last minute, but the play of the Saints did not tend to inspire one with much confidence.
A few of the players worked with success, notably Fry, Edgar Chadwick, and Lee, while Milward was untiring, but there was only one team in it, and that was not Southampton.
But the Saints’ cup of bitterness was not yet full,
In clearing a dangerous attack by Settle and Sharp, C. B. Fry ricked his knee, and was some time before he resumed.
Within a couple of minutes of the restart Turner, of Everton, scored a third goal, and the tale of the meeting between the teams had been told.
All interest in the game had long fizzled out when {he final sounding of the whistle was heard, leaving Everton winners by three goals to one.
Prior to the match Mr. W. Dawson, the Southampton trainer, for whom a collection was made on the ground, was presented with a silver-mounted walking stick at the Alexandra Hotel.
THROUGH EVERTON GLASSES
The Football Echo and Sports Gazette, Saturday, February 9, 1901
By “Toffee”
The Everton team came down to Basingstoke on Friday, and occupied temporary quarters there until this morning, when they completed the last stage of their journey to Southampton.
All the eleven were in tip-top form, and confident of victory. They started the game with a strong determination to reverse the positions of the two clubs after the match between last year in the first round of the English Cup ties.
The 200 odd Toffyites'who had come to cheer the team started the shouting which heralded the appearance of the Everton men on the field, and applauded again when Captain Settle won the toss. Everton attacked first, and Wolstenholme got nicely away, sent in, and gave Proudfoot a chance, which the latter spoilt by shooting over the bar.
Sharp, of Everton, was prominent withgood play, and from a centre by him Settle had a pop. Alas for Everton’s hopes-the ball again went wide over the cross-bar. This was just after Milward had put the visitors; goal in danger.
Sharp, one of the two Everton players who have gained International honours (Settle is the other one), became unduly prominent by reason of paying close attention to the man rather than the ball. A spell of attacking by Southampton served to show the soundness of the defence of Eccles, Balmer, and Co.
The first goal was to the credit of the home side, gained by Edgar Chadwick. Everton then pressed vigorously, and Molyneux nearly scored for them, the result of a miskick.
By an unfortunate injury to Settle Everton were bereft of his services, their captain limping off with an injured leg.
With only ten men they renewed the attack, and Sharp put in a low, fast “hot ’'un,” which called forth all Robinson’s powers to save his charge.
A good run by Sharp again put the home goal in danger, but Robinson cleared the right-winger’s shot. Settle’s reappearance elicited generous applause from Southampton supporters, as well as the Everton followers.
The Everton skipper soon tested Robinson, who cleared smartly. Both goalies were cheered for clever work when pressed, Muir especially effecting one marvellous save.
Everton left the field a goal behind at half-time, but loud were the shouts of the Everton crowd when Settle scored the equalising goal immediately after the restart.
They fully deserved this reward, for despite all discouragement the visitors had pegged away with pluck and determination.
It served as an impetus to them to redoubletheir efforts, and they attacked for quite a Spell.
Snatches of an animated conversation between a keen sportsman from Everton—his speech betrayed him, though his sentiments alone might have done so—and a number of Southampton’s supporters on the grand stand became interesting at this stage of the game.
Southampton did well to clear from the kick awarded Everton, as the result of Lee fouling Proudfoot, when the latter was in full swing for the home goal.
Proudfoot was the cause of the second stoppage, on account of injuries—Everton unfortunate again. Happily the player was able to continue.
Having nothing else to applaud during a spell of play in midfield the spectators cheered an astonished cat, which somehow wandered on to the field.
But there was soon additional cause for jubilation in the Everton ranks, for whom Taylor scored a second goal. The goal came from a corner kick, conceded by Fry.
The conversation on the grand stand was now hushed—the Everton man had no one to talk to.
Play slowed down considerably—both sides appeared to have had about enough of it.
Everton concentrated their efforts in a stubborn defence, though their forwards were not slow when a chance to initiate aggressive movements was presented.
Taylor slipped when he appeared certain to score, and lost the ball—a bit of very hard luck. It became apparent that nothing short of a miracle could prevent Everton running out the winners—Southampton were thoroughly beaten some time before the finish.
Fry was temporarily laid out before time came during a strong rush by the Everton forwards.
The concluding stages of the game were in the home half, and Turner added a third for Everton. Southampton did show up a little, but at signal for time retired well beaten. Well done, Everton!
SOUTHAMPTON 1 EVERTON 3
February 11 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
Played at Southampton on Saturday. Everton had, with the exception of Watson, whose place was filled by Eccles, their usual League team, whilst the Southampton organisation was handicapped by the absentee of Wood and A.Chadwick, and under such conditions the prospects of the home side were not to bright. The sides turned out as follow: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer and Eccles backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner backs, Southampton: - Robinson, goal, Fey, and Molyneux (g) backs, Meston, Leo and Killean, halfbacks, Turner, Yates, Toman (w), Chadwick (e), and Milward (a), forwards. There was no advantage to be derived by winning the toss. Everton were the first to make progress, Sharp and Turner sending in centres that Fry and Molyneux attended to in able fashion. After ten minutes play which was favourable to Everton, the home side got into the swinging stride, and by dint of smart passing and general distribution of work were often a source of great anxiety to Muir and his backs. Eventually Edgar Chadwick obtained possession from Yates as a result of a free kick, and defeated Muit with a splendid shot. Play having been in progress about 25 minutes. Shortly afterwards Settle received a severe kick, below his knee, but was quickly attended to and rejoined his confreres about 15 minutes absence. Meanwhile Everton attacked strongly but no further scoring took place up to the interval, when Southampton led by a goal to nil. On resuming, Everton settled down to earnest work, and in the first few minutes Settle equalised from a free kick against Yates. This put further sting into the visitors attack, and for some time Robinson was kept well employed. It was only on rare occasions that the home forwards got down, Turner the outside right, being concerned in these movements, which, however, caused no difficulty to Eccles and Balmer. A further attack eventually resulted in Taylor placing his side ahead, and towards the close the Saints put on strenuous efforts to get level again. In this they were frustrated and during the last minute a smart bit of work resulted in the ball going to Turner, who clinched the matter by scoring a third goal, the final result was Everton 3 goals, Southampton 1.
EVERTON TURN THE TABLES ON SOUTHAMPTON.
Athletic News - Monday 11 February 1901
By The Saint.
History did not repeat itself at Southampton. Twelve months ago the ‘‘Saints’ were drawn with Everton at home, and after a rare game beat the Lancastrians by three goals to none: and when a few weeks ago the teams again came out of the hat together joy reigned in the Saintly camp, and the Hampshire folk were confident that once more their favourites, with the advantage of ground, would qualify for the second round. They, however, reckoned without Everton, who were equally determined to wipe out the last defeat. The “Saints" had been training locally, and Everton, who reached Basingstoke overnight, 'came on to Southampton in the morning. Perfect weather prevailed, but at the last moment Wood and Arthur Chadwick were unable to take the field through injuries, and Yates and Killean filled their places. RENEWING ACQUAINTANCE
Four of the Southampton players. Molyneux, Toman, Chadwick, and Milward, had previously figured in Everton’s ranks, whilst Joe Turner, the Everton outside left, made his reputation as a “Saint.’ There were about 12.000 spectators, including a couple of hundred Liverpudlians, when Toman started. For some time there was little to choose between the teams, the visitors' defence being very stubborn, Balmer especially playing grandly, and at the other end Fry was also performing prodigies. SOUTHAMPTON SCORE FIRST
Twenty-eight minutes had elapsed ere Chadwick opened the for Southampton with a sterling shot, which Muir tried in vain to stop. This success of the home team was hailed with vociferous shouts, and the game grew in interest and excitement. The Evertonians made strenuous efforts to get on terms, and on more than one occasion were within an ace of equalizing. The superb goalkeeping of Robinson alone prevented them. Shortly before half-time Settle had to leave the field through to his injury his knee, but after an absence of five minutes he was able to return, and nothing further occurred before the interval, when Southampton led by one goal to nil. The restart was sensational, for almost immediately Settle equalized with a swift shot. For the moment the "Saints'’ appeared demoralized, for Robinson had to contend with warm shots from Settle and Proudfoot.
THE LEADING POINTS
Then Fry was compelled to concede a corner from which Taylor headed past Rohinson, and gave Everton the lead. From this point Everton played a winning game, and after a magnificent piece of work in which the whole of the visiting forwards participated. Turner put on the third and last goal of the match. Everton retiring victorious by three goals to one. There can be no doubt that the better team won. The “Saints” had slightly the better of the first half, their forwards playing well together. After the equalizing goal, however, the result was never seriously in doubt, the “Saints” being practically run a to standstill in the closing stages of the game. The losers' combination was completely upset by the absence of Wood and Chadwick, Killean making a poor substitute for the latter at centre-half. It was not Robinson’s fault that the verdict went against his side, for the international goalkeeper displayed all his old-time his old-timer brilliancy. Nor can the backs be blamed. Fry especially saving splendidly on innumerable occasions. Meston and Lee worked hard at half-back, and Milward and Edgar Chadwick were the pick of the forwards. Archie Turner, the outside right, was too well watched to be dangerous, and Yates and Toman failed to tumble to each other's style. All the Everton players were seen to advantage. Muir had less difficult shots than his vis-a-vis to deal with, but he nevertheless distinguished himself. Balmer played a great game at back, and Booth was clever and untiring at centre-half. Sharpe bore off the palm in the Everton forward line, some of his shots being superb. Settle also shone conspicuously, but there was not a weak spot in the line. There were no untoward incidents to mar the pleasure of the game, which on the whole was played in sportsmanlike spirit. Teams: Southampton; Robinson, goal; C. B. Fry and Molyneux, backs; Meston, Killean, and Lee, half-backs; Turner, Yates, Toman, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Turner, Proudfoot, Settle, and Turner, forwards. Mr. A. Green, of West Bromwich, referee.
EVERTON RESERVES 1 LIVERPOOL RESERVES 2
February 11 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
The above teams met at Goodison Park, before 8,000 spectators. The sides were as follows: - Everton: - Kitchen goal, Halliday, and Crelly backs, Blythe, Green, and Taylor (r), halfbacks, Corrin, Rankin Worthington, Gray, and Chadwick (t), forwards. Liverpool: - Storey, goal, Morris, and Glover, backs, Parry, Hunter (j), and Ferrier, halfbacks, Soulsby, Hunter (s), McArdle, Davies, and Satterthwaite, forwards. Worthington scored for Everton. Even play followed, Kitchen saving well. half time arrived with the score Everton 1 goal Liverpool nil. Liverpool at once attacked gaining a fruitless corner, McArdie scored for Liverpool, who continued to have the best of play. A penalty was given against Everton, from which Scatterthwaite scored, and Liverpool won by 2 goals to 1.
EVERTON REVIEW
February 11 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
In many respects Everton's tie with Southampton might be cleared as one of the stoutest tasks set to a visiting team. Southerners have had an exceptionally successful career in their own particular circle of competition, and the fact that last season they defeated the Evertonians in the first round, and eventually found their way to the final stages, is sufficient evidences of the progress of the game in the South. That Everton had no light task on hand was a general theme amongst Southern clubs, and to judge them the play in the first half of the game that the opinion seemed likely to be borne out by actual results. The home players set about their work at a truly astonishing pace, and jumping into an accurate stride from the outset they kept their opponents defenders extended to the fullest limit. The play of the halfbacks and forwards was crisp, well directed, and withal accurate, and the fine combination all along the van stamped the side as almost certain victors. Still, the Saints found the last Everton line of defence in a most stubborn mood, but during one of the loose moments when some misunderstanding appeared to exist between Booth and Eccles, Chadwick slipped in and opened the scoring with a fast and clever shot after 25 minutes play. There was no stopping the home team up to the change of ends but it must be inferred that the Everton forwards were idea for Robinson was twice tested with shots that would have beaten the majority of custodians. After the resumption of play, quite a change came over the game as slowly, but surely, did the visitors harass their opponents until towards the close they practically played them to a standstill. Evidently the home forwards had put forward their bests efforts in the initial moiety; certain it was they were completely shadowed in the second portion of the game with the result that the defence was overrun and had to strike their colours on three occasions. For this satisfactory state of affairs the Everton Club have by reason of the sterling play of the halfbacks much for which to be thankful for after play had been resumed, the trio took their opponents under their wing, so to speak and kept them there up to the close of operations. Booth played an untiring and effective game all though so that one can little wonder at the failure of Toman to keep his wings together. Wolstenholmes, invariably had the better of the tussles with Chadwick and Milward, while at the other end of the line, Abbott after once getting into his stride, shadowed Turner so effectively that there was an absence of those centres by this player which, not only during the first of the game under notice, but throughout last season's contest, had much to do with the discomfiture of the Everton team. There could be no question that the trio rendered splendid service, and it would be a difficult matter at present to find a more solid, capable and earnest set of players in the county. While singling out the middle line for special mention, it must not be inferred that there was any unevenness in other departments. The whole team played well to a man, and never did determination to struggle gamely against odds show itself so markedly as when the Skipper was rendered hors of combat. During his absence of about a quarter of an hour, the home custodian had a very anxious time, and the extra efforts put forward were continued after Settle rejoined his comrades with the result as stated above. While all did well, a passing tribute to the excellent defensive play of Eccles would not be out of place. In the second portion of the game he played in masterly fashion, and a continuance of such displays should permanently ensure his position of the premier team. Coming to the home players Robinson gave a capital exposition of custodianship in the first half of the game three shots from Settle, Turner, and Sharp being of such a character that required more than ordinary ability to negotiate. That represented the fullback division excellent all round athlete CB Fry, who occasionally assists the southern club, and by the ex-Evertonian, Molyneux. Both players got through their work in very capable fashion-indeed with regard to the latter it can safely be stated that he has improved considerably upon his Goodison Park performances. Plenty of dash, clean kicking and good placing were points common to both backs, and it was a pity that their good work was discounted in great measure by the unfair tactics resorted to by the half backs, for repeatedly was ground lost, and on one occasion a goal lost, as the result of free kicks. It was a stubborn game, in which Everton clawed themselves to be a more proficient and better-trained team, and if the same standard of play be maintained there should be no barrier to successful progress in the competition.
ASSOCIATION ENGLISH CUP TIE
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 11 February 1901
EVERTON v. SOUTHAMPTON
After the enforced postponement of a fortnight, the Everton Cup tie against Southampton on Saturday were looked forward to with more than customary interest. The Goodison Park contingent had been kept in strict training during the interim and they left Liverpool on Friday all fine and well for Basingstoke, where the evening was quietly spent. The journey to Southampton was continued on Saturday morning, the great Southern port being reach shortly after twelve. The weather was mild and fine, little trace of the recent frost being apparent. The match excited the keenest interest in the town, and the home crowd was supplemented by a large company of Everton supporters, who had journeyed down overnight by the Great Western special. It will be remembered that last year’s encounter between the two teams ended most disastrously for Everton, who were beaten by 3 goals to nil. On Saturday the hopes of the visitors were much brighter and the players entered the arena full of confidence. The Everton men lined up in the order as advertised, Eccles taking the place of Watson, who is suffering from a bad leg, at back. The home eleven was not at its fullest strength. A Chadwick and Wood both being absentees on account of illness; but the back division was greatly strengthened by the inclusion of C.B. Fry. It is interesting to note that the Southampton eleven included no less than four old Evertonians. Contrary to expectation, the ground was found to be in splendid condition, the turf looking fresh and green, though the going, to use a racing expression, was on the soft side. There were nearly 15,000 spectators present when the men faced each other. Everton were the first to appear, and they were received with a hearty cheer, which was redoubled when the home contingent ran on to the field. Settle won the toss, but there was little to choose in the matter of halves, there being absolutely no wind. Toman started, and a long kick by Chadwick put the home forwards at once on the aggressive. Abbott, however, checked, and the Everton right raced down in fine style, Sharp being within an ace of scoring, when Fry rushed in and cleared. Following upon this the home front rank got down in splendid fashion, and Milward had a fine opening, when he shot wide. The next few moments were contested in front of Muir, the Southampton quintet making desperate efforts to get through, but both Balmer and Eccles were on the alert, and presented an admirable defence. Booth at length gave to Proudfoot and the latter ran down nicely, giving to Turner, who, however, was robbed by Fry, who was playing a magnificent game. The home lot then took up the attack in real earnest, and for some time the Everton goal was subjected to the most terrific bombardment. Turner sent in a long low shot, which looked very dangerous when Wolstenholme intercepted it at the expense of a corner. This, however, came to nothing, and the next move of interest was a run-down by Proudfoot. The Everton centre passed nicely to Settle, and the latter had a fine opening when he shot wide. So far the game had been extremely fast, and there was little to choose between either eleven, both sides showing fine football. From a throw-in Yates ran down, and looked like getting through, when Abbott cleared. The Saints continued to press, and a foul against Abbott gave them a fine opening, but, fortunately for Everton, Milward shot just outside. A breakaway by the visiting forwards looked promising, but at the critical moment Proudfoot failed to rise to the occasion, and a great opportunity was lost. At this point a diversion was created by the appearance of a little fox terrier on the field, and the game was momentarily stopped, while Fry picked up the canine intruder, and carried it off. After this the home forwards again get down, and the Everton defence was kept very busy, but fortunately both Balmer and Eccles were equal to the demands made upon them. A break away by Sharp and Taylor promised well, but the former overran the ball, and the next forward move on the part of Everton was promptly stopped by Fry, who seemed to be here, there, and everywhere. The visitors persisted in their efforts, and for some moments it looked as if they were bound to score, but both Fry and Molyneux kept them out. At length Settle got possession, and sent in a magnificent shot, which Robinson rather luckily succeeded in fisting out. Following upon this the home eleven took up the attack a couple of corners falling to them in rapid succession. These were safely negotiated, but the invaders were not to be denied and a hot bully in front of Muir ended in Chadwick netting the ball. This success which was received with deafening cheers, came after the game had been in progress twenty eight minutes. This reserve did not dishearten the visitors in any way, and for several minutes they paid great attention to Robinson’s charge, but all without success. Then a further touch of ill fortune came upon the visitors, for Settle got a kick on the knee, which caused him to be helped off the field. Although with only four forwards, the visitors kept pegging away. Turner on one occasion running through and passing to Sharp, who sent in a stinging shot, which Robinson however, cleared. Then the Saints again took up the running, and Muir was called upon to save shots from both Turner, and Chadwick. Taylor and Sharp put in a splendid movement, the outsider finally sending in a lovely shot, but Robinson was on the qui vive and saved finely. After an absence of nearly ten minutes Settle re-appeared, the crowd giving the Everton captain quite a roar of welcome. Meanwhile the home forwards were busy engaged in front of Muir, Yates sending in a swift low shot, which brought the home custodian to his knees. Just before the interval Everton made desperate effort to get on even terms. Sharp being stopped by Molyneux when in the act of shooting. Following upon this Settle ran through his men, and sent in a stinger to Robinson, but the latter as usual was not to be caught napping. Then the home left got down and Milward sent in a beautiful shot, which Muir dealt with effectively. The visitors again tried to break through the home defence, but without success, the interval coming with Southampton in the ascendant by 1 goal to nothing.
On restarting, Everton made ground on the left, Turner shooting across the goal mouth. Then the visitors were given a free kick close in, and Robinson had a warm time. Fry eventually cleared, but the Evertonians returned, and a foul by Yates again let the visitors in. this time they took full advantage of the opportunity offered, for Settle, with a swift low shot, succeeded in beating Robinson. Having at last drawn level, the visitors played up like giants refreshed, and monopolised most of the play. Southampton later pressed hard, but to no avail. Then Everton had a turn, but Fry and Molyneux defended finely. After Robinson had saved from Settle, Taylor bear him close in, thus giving Everton the lead after thirty minutes’ play. Southampton made desperate efforts to equalise as time was drawing to a close, but the Everton half backs were playing well, and Settle receiving, passed to Turner, who scored the best goal of the match. Result Everton 3 goals, Southampton 1 goal. Teams;- Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Turner, forwards. Southampton;- Robinson, goal; C.B. Fry and Molyneux, backs; Meston, Killean, and Lee, half-backs; Turner, Yates Toman, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards.
FRIENDLY MATCH
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 11 February 1901
EVERTON COMBINATION v LIVERPOOL (COMBINATION)
At Goodison Park, before 5,000 spectators. Worthington scored for Everton. Even play followed. Kitchen saving well. Half-time arrived with the score; Everton 1 goal, Liverpool 1 goal (it was nil) . Liverpool at once attacked gaining a fruitless corner. McArdle scored for Liverpool, who continued to have the best of the play. A penalty was given against Everton, from which Satterthwaite scored. Result Liverpool 2 goals, Everton 1 goal.
THE ENGLISH CUP
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 12 February 1901
Everton play Sheffield United away. Ties to be played on February 23; kick-off at 3.30.
For the international match between North and South to be played either at the Crystal Palace or Tottenham on Monday, February 25, the following teams were chosen.
South;- Robinson (Southampton), goal; C. B. Fry and W.J. Oakley (Corinthians), backs; Jones (Bristol), A. Chadwick (Southampton), and H. Vickers (Casuals), half-backs; Turner (Southampton), R.E. Foster (Old Malvernians),G.O. Smith (Corinthians) (captain), Banks (Millwall), and B.O. Corbitt (Corinthians), forwards. North- Kingsley (Newcastle United), goal; Balmer (Everton) and Evans (Aston Villa), backs; Wolstenholme (Everton), Crawshaw (Sheffield Wednesday), and Needham (Sheffield United) (captain), half-backs; Johnson (Stoke), Bloomer (Derby County), Johnson (Aston Villa), Sagat (Bury), and Cox (Liverpool), forwards.
SOUTHAMPTON v. EVERTON.
Hampshire Advertiser - Wednesday 13 February 1901
The match was played at Southampton, and resulted in the defeat of the Saints three goals to one. In the first half half of the game the play was very fast, and of an interesting character. But one goal was scored, this being Southampton's solitary point of the game, which was obtained at the end of half-an-hour'a play. In the second portion the Southampton men gave very disappointing display. After the interval Settle at once equalised for Everton. After this the home team gave a very tame exhibition, and soon afterwards Taylor put the visitors ahead. Everton soon scored again by Turner, and thus won without difficulty, continuing to have by far the best of the game. The result was very disappointing Southampton folk, who thought that the Saints would just manage gain a victory.
LIVERPOOL CHAT
Football Chat and Athletic World - Wednesday 13 February 1901
By “Mersey Mentor”
Everton have wiped that little thing off the slate very nicely, haven’t they? The memory of last year’s Cup defeat at Southampton has always stuck in their craw, and one could sympathies with their determination to “win or bust” on Saturday, when they met the same opponents. They didn’t bust, but won by 3 to 1, which is very good indeed. By all accounts it was touch and go until Settle managed to equalise after half-time. The Saints were promising to repeat the doze- as indeed many of us at home feared they would- but thereafter they fell all to pieces. Good old Taylor getting his cranium to the ball put the result beyond doubt. The train load of Goodisonians, who made the journey, had value for their money. I do not suppose the rejoicing of the Goodison crowd were in the least damped by the news from Nottingham, where Liverpool went down 2 to nil.
SQUALLS AT SOUTHAMPTON
Football Chat and Athletic World - Wednesday 13 February 1901
Southampton have been in every round of the F.A Cup competition, and done everything but lift the trophy. I rather fancy they had a suppressed fancy that this season was to be their season for the pot, and I do not know that on the night of the draw they made no regret about Everton being their opponents. They were dreadfully unlucky to have to turn out without Arthur Chadwick and Harry Wood, two of the finest helpers it would be possible to find for Cup fighting, but it’s an old and true adage that misfortunes never come singly, and with the misfortune to those players they disappear from the Cup competition in the very first round. Last year it was stated that Southampton’s very existence depended on the gate of a match in an advanced round of the competition. It is to be hoped that fewer departing troopships have led to a better state of affairs this season, for South without Southampton would be like football without the English Cup. Everton had an old score to rub off with the Saints and they cleared the slate very closely, but at the same time they were lucky to fight the game in the absence of the two Cup giants I have already mentioned. There is no city in England where the Cup would be greater appreciated than in Liverpool, but Everton have a lot to do yet before they can arrange for another St. George’s Square firework and illumination demonstration. They have started well with their Southampton win, and also with luck. Luck has done more to win the English Cup than to make clubs members of the First Division of the Football League.
FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 15 February 1901
EVERTON v MANCHESTER CITY
Everton will be on view at Goodison Park to-morrow after a month’s absence, when doubtless they will receive a very hearty reception as a result of their brilliant achievement at Southampton last Saturday in the English Cup competition. Manchester City are the visitors and, judging from the previous meeting between the teams at Hyde-road, a good game can be relied upon. The Everton executive have wisely decided to stick to the “crew” which has rendered such good accounts recently, and will be represented as follows;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Turner, forwards. Kick-off 3.30
EVERTON COMBINATION v. MANCHESTER CITY RESERVE
For this Lancashire Combination match to be played on the City enclosure to-morrow, Everton have selected the following team;- Kitchen, goal; Halliday, and Crelly, backs; Boyle, Green and Taylor, half-backs; Roche, McDonald, Worthington, Gray, and Corrin, forwards.
FAMOUS CLUBS AND GROUNDS
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 16 February 1901
CORINTHIANS
By Red Rose
Despite the manner in which professionalism has, during the past 14 or 15 years, forced its way into almost every nook and corner where the Socker code is played in England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, amateur football is by means played out, and it is pleasing to note that during recent years increased interest has been taken in the competitions for the National and Lancashire Amateur Cups, while in the County Palatine amateur clubs are considerably stronger, as a whole, than was the case formerly. In our national pastime there is room both for the amateur and the professional, and the revival the first named is a happy sign for Lancashire football. In the later seventies and the very early eighties the amateur reigned supreme, and it is questionable whether present-day football to-day is so clever and scientific as it wasin those early days of the game. Old sportsmen can look back to the olden times with the highest degree of pleasure and satisfaction. In the primeval days the South monopolised the plums of the game, and the stamp of play shown by the Wanderers (five times winners the English Cup), the Swifts, the Old Etonians, the Old Carthusians, and other famous elevens was certainly no whit inferior to that shown by our English League teams of to-day.
MR. JACKSON’S HOBBY.
Tli« Corinthians are now the only amateur combination with any real claims to greatness competing with professional elevens. Mr. N. L. Jackson, that genial sport, may have prejudices and antipathies with the professional, but he has done perhaps as much as any man living to popularise the Socker code in England. He is the father of the Corinthians Club, and has spared neither time nor money to forward the interests of the amateur player. The formation and carrying on of the Corinthians’ organisation has formed his chief hobby, and his efforts have been amply rewarded by success, judging by the performances of his eleven, and the long string Internationals who have upheld the honour of the Rose against the Leek, the Thistle, and the Shamrock. The Corinthians have been to England whatQueen’s Park have been to Scotland, although perhaps in a more marked degree, and the class of play shown by them has maintained such high degree of excellence to prove source of enjoyment and pleasure to large crowds of people. They have never lacked the possession of clever, speedy players, and many teams in the North of England have profited by their visits to learn a wrinkle or two respecting the finer points of the game.
EARLY DAYS.
It was in 1882 that Mr. Jackson put into operation a scheme that had for some time been uppermost in his mind. A number of the leading amateurs of the country met in his office one autumn day at his invitation, and the advisability of getting together a strong band of amateurs to be to England what Queen's Park were to Scotland, was discussed. Professionalism was by this time making such inroads into football circles that it was somewhat difficult to get, a first-class combination of amateurs together, but Mr. Jackson’s idea caught on immensely, and the Corinthians club was the outcome. Mr. N. L. Jackson was elected secretary, and for a long period of time superintended the affairs of the organisation. Amateurs from all parts of the country enrolled themselves under the Corinthian banner, and from that day to this, capable recruits have never been wanting to fill the vacancies caused by the retirement of members. The class of play shown by the Corinthians in the eighties, and also the early nineties, was equal, if not superior, to that shown by the very pick their opponents. Yearly it was the custom to “tour” Lancashire and the Midlands, and many a rare battle has been fought between the Corinthians and the famous Preston North Enders; indeed their last visit to the “classic enclosure” two or three years ago will long live in the memories those 6,000 spectators who witnessed it. Blackburn Rovers, then in the zenith of their fame, once received a terrible drubbing at the hands of Pa Jackson’s men, who ran up a score mounting to teens of goals before the referee’s whistle tootled for the cessation of hostilities. What sportsman of the old school can ever forget the magnificent back play of the brothers A. M. and P. M. Walters, second, in the opinion of many, hardly (with W. R. Moon behind them), to the Rowley, Clare, and Underwood line of Stoke, and the impregnable defence put forward Trainer, N. J. Ross, and Holmes, and Arnott, Smellie, and Co. A perfect understanding seemed to exist between the Bros. Walters, they possessed rare speed, and were very heavy chargers, and the forward line which could pierce their defence with anything like regularity had to be a smart combination indeed.
A GRAND ALL-ROUND SPORTSMAN.
The retirement made way for hardly less capable couple—W. J. Oakley and L. V. Lodge—both of whom have attained international honours. With the decline of Williams and the lack of really class full-backs in English League elevens to-day, it is more than probable that the first-named will again this season be seen fighting the battles of the Rose. A sound tackier, a powerful kicker, and a capable defender, he has the advantage of rare speed and physique; while the claims C. B. Fry, the Admirable Crichton of English sport, have also been put forward in more than one quarter as worthy of a place in our English eleven. “Charles Buyers” holds an unequalled position in the annals of British sport. A triple Blue, his powers as a batsman and bowler (until his delivery was called into question) are well known, and it is always a relief to opposing elevens when his well-knit frame is seen retracing its steps pavilion-wards. His success in Rugby football, too, cannot be lost sight of, and whatever he has put eye, hand, and foot to—whether jumping, sprinting, cricket, or football—he has excelled. As an athlete, “C.B.” has certainly no superior in the world, while as writer on athletes and athletics he has lately shot into prominence.
REMINISCENCES.
But I am transgressing. Let us hark back to the many famous men who have worn the Corinthian colours in the eighties and early nineties. Moon and the Walters have already been referred to; but who cannot remember the wonderful dribbling powers of that giant amongst forwards, W. N. Cobbold, whose lightning runs half the length of the field have electrified many an admiring crowd. Then Fred Dewhurst, an old Preston favourite, now, alas! no more amongst us, turned out occasionally on the outside left, and Tinsley Lindleythat wonderful manipulator of the ball hailing from Nottingham, who led the Corinthian van on more than one occasion. The work, too, of N. C. Bailey, a giant amongst half-backs, who gained greater international honours than any player in the country, although Bob Holmes, Jimmy Forrest, and Jud Howarth received their share, cannot be forgotten; while E. C. Bainbridge, C. Holden-White, A. T. B. Dunn, R. T. Squire, and other grand masters of the Association art. are amongst other famous men who have assisted to build the Corinthians’ reputation. In recent years. C.J. Burnup, a marvellous little outside left; R. C. Gosling, a dash forward; B. Middleditch. a worrying half-back; C. Wreford Brown, a magnificent player and genial skipper; W. Campbell, R. E. Foster, W. F. Stanbrough, C. L. Alexander, F. M. Ingram together with Smith, Fry, and Oakley, have, amongst others, upheld the reputation of the club.
INTERNATIONALIA.
It is unnecessary to enumerate the many internationals who have been furnished by the Corinthians to do battle with the three sister kingdoms, for almost every prominent Corinthian has at one time or another received a cap. Blackburn holds a unique honour with respect to players who have gained international honours, but their list of capped men, long though it may be—25Blackbunians, I believe, have gained this honour—it must be relegated to second place, when the Corinthian's long string of internationals is remembered. A fair sprinkling of Corinthian players has always been present in English international fixtures, more particularly against Ireland and Wales, and it is worthy of note to remember that in March, 1894, the English team against Wales at Wrexham consisted in its entirety of Corinthians. This 11 proved far to good for the representatives of Wales, who succumbed by five goals to nil.
RULES
The presence of the Corinthian eleven in the English competition would be a great attraction, and it seems a pity that the rules of the club should prevent it from entering this, the greatest of national struggles. From the commencement of its history, however, the team has had a rule which roads: The club shall not compete for any challenge cup or any prizes of any description whatever.” Few clubs, if any, can boast of a rule of this description, but it must be confessed that this rule has not been strictly adhered to. The Corinthians have taken part in the Dewar Charity Cup Competition, and the meetings with Sheffield United and other clubs have proved very interesting. Few matches are played at home, and according to rule it appears that when the players are on tour “the club pays only travelling and ordinary hotel expenses of its members, while actually on the tour. The hotel expenses do not include wines or spirits, which should be paid for by the members at the time of ordering.” It is thus apparent that the club is run on strictly amateur lines.
LIVERPOOL SENIOR CUP
Formby Times - Saturday 16 February 1901
An effort has been made, says a writer in the “Athletic News” by the Liverpool and District Association to instil greater interest in the competition for the “Liverpool Senior Cup.” For several seasons it has shown a serious falling off as regards the interest taken by the public in its matches, possibly owing to the fact that one team taking part in the competition-Everton-was very much in advance of the other competitors in point of playing capacity. A movement has been originated this season whereby this will be entirely removed, and ten of the strongest teams in the district have entered to compete for the handsome cup and medals offered. They are Everton, Liverpool, Southport Central, Wrexham, Tranmere Rovers, Birkenhead, Melrose, White Star, Hudson’s and Warrington. The inclusion of Liverpool, Southport Central and Wrexham is bound to make the matches of a more interesting nature, and the committee look forward with the greater hope to the return of that public recognition so marked in the days when clubs such as Everton, Bootle, Stanley, and Earlestown entered the competition. Everton and Liverpool have been exempted from the first two rounds, the draw for the initial round being;-
Birkenhead v Melrose
Southport Central v Tranmere Rovers
Wrexham v White Star
Hudson’s v Warrington
EVERTON WIN EASILY.
Athletic News - Monday 18 February 1901
By Harricus.
It has been my fortune to witness both the matches between Everton and Manchester City this season, and the result has been that the points have been divided. Everton were, however, very sore over the awarding of the goal which won the match for the City at Manchester, and had not forgotten it on Saturday, and meant to pay off the score with interest. They did so and no mistake, for at one time they were five goals to the good, and could doubtless have kept that lead had they been so disposed, but in the last ten minutes they allowed the City men so much scope that Meredith and Cassidy both put on goals, so that the result, 5—2, had as it was for the City, was not so bad as seemed probable until nearing the close of the game. There were three changes in the teams advertised, Corrin taking the place of the injured Turner on the home side; while on the other side Roes stood down for Harvey, while Hosie, the recruit from Blackburn Rovers, figured at left half. There was a capital attendance, thanks in a measure to the late kick-off, and I should imagine that there would be fully 15,000 on the ground, including players and officials. It was soon evident that Everton were bent on winning, for a long time they had much the best or matters.
THREE GOALS IN FIVE MINUTES
Twelve minutes elapsed ere opened their account, and then they were in a bit of a hurry, for Williams was defeated thrice in five minutes. The first point was due to Sharp’s smartness, for he ran well in, and, centring the ball squarely, Settle put on the finishing touch to the usual accompaniment of voices. The little International also put up No. 2, for being fouled within the twelve yards line he took the accruing penalty kick himself, and deftly turned the ball into the net. Point No. 3 was secured in rather a smart manner. A throw-in near the corner flag was quickly taken. Corrin whipped the ball across, and Booth—I think it was—did the rest in double quick time, an appeal for offside being negatived. After this the City had a turn, but the home defence—Balmer in particular—did not allow them too much scope, with the result that Muir had not much difficult work to do. A little before the interval the game was momentarily stopped owing to Williams, who had run out of his goal, falling heavily on his shoulder, and when on the ground he received an opponent’s boot on his head. He must have been dazed, for though he kept on the field until the interval, the City only turned out with ten men after the resumption.
THE ONE-BACK GAME
In a sense it was rather fortunate that Hosie was played by the City, for he has a reputation as a goalkeeper, so that in the absence of Williams he was put in goal in the second half. Read went left half in his place, and Di Jones played the role of full-back all on his own. The temporary custodian was soon found work and he negotiated three shots in succession in such a style as to gain the plaudits of the spectators. When they found out the game of the Manchester captain they fell to hooting him, and Jones was the subject of derision almost every time he kicked the ball. This took all interest out of the game, and the only chance the home forwards had of scoring was to take a run on their own. Both right wing men, Sharp and Taylor, were successful in adopting these tactics, their goals being secured by almost running through the goal with the ball at their feet. Corrin, the outside left, could not adapt himself to the circumstances, with the result that almost every time he touched the ball he was given offside; in fact, the referee’s whistle was kept very busy indeed.
CITY FINISH WELL.
The game seemed to have lost all interest, but with the idea of giving the score a better appearance, I suppose, the City forwards put forth strong efforts to get through, and Meredith's goal, about ten minutes from time, was about the best of the seven registered during the afternoon. He forced his way through with Eccles hanging on to him, and when they reached the goal month Muir joined in the fray. They were all three bundled together, but by sheer force of strength Meredith pushed the ball over the line. A couple of minutes later Cassidy added a second point for the City, but it could not be termed a terrific shot by any means and so the end arrived with Everton victors by five goals to two. They fully deserved this margin, too; indeed, as aforementioned, they might easily have won by five clear goals but for easing up. During the first half-hour they showed capital football, and though the City gradually improved, they were never the equals of the home team.
THE ONE BACK NOT APPRECIATED
The second half was of course completely spoiled by the City adopting the one back game, the Everton players being frequently given off-side in their own quarters. There was a continual "booing ' to the finish, and a special "boo” as the City players left the field. Under ordinary circumstances that is with eleven men on each side, I am strongly opposed to the one back game, and though it is a subject difficult to legislate upon, I consider it most unsportsmanlike conduct, and likely to bring discredit to the game. But in a case like Saturday it is a club's only protection, and surely with ten men only, a captain is at liberty to place his men as he thinks fit. Williams did not leave the field for the fun of the thing. I am sure, or he would have known about it from his directors. The crowd urged the Everton captain to play the same trick, but beyond a little unnecessary kicking out I am pleased to say that the advice of the crowd was not taken. It would surely have been a sign of weakness had a club playing at home, and with a lead of three goals, been compelled to follow the example of inferior opponents, who were shorthanded. The referee suffers as much as anyone, and as it was the first First Division match for Mr. Campbell, he would doubtless feel sorry that Williams did not turn out in the second half. But I must say that Mr. Campbell’s initiation passed through without any discredit to himself, and the crowd was very lenient with him. Crowds are, of course, very easily satisfied when their side are scoring a few goals.
THE EVERTON TEAM
I have held that the Everton team should have no superiors on superiors on the individual merit of the players, but somehow or other paper players at Everton do not work out accordingly, and many others besides myself wonder at the thereof. The eleven seemed to be playing as one man now with one interest, and certainly on Saturday, though they had not a great team to beat, they struck me as a very useful side indeed. It seemed they have decided to win the English Cup already. I like the spirit, yet should they lose at Sheffield I suppose the local papers will be flooded with effusions from folks who could pick the team better than the directors. ‘Twas ever thus, I admired the two men who have been honored by the Association. Balmer is a right-back after the Scotch style. He goes for the ball and he means to get it by hook or by crook, while I hold that Wolstenholme plays as good football as any in the League. Mind, I do not say that he is brilliant, but everything he does is for the good of his side, and that is what I like to see in a half-back. Jack Sharp put in some good work in the first half, being speedier than the two men opposed to him, and he made capital out of the fact, and Settle seems to be in his best form at present; in fact, there is a feeling at Everton that the club can provide a few at Everton that the club can provide a few internationals if required. The City were not up to their reputed standard by a long way, but there is no doubt that they would have done much better had they had eleven men in the second half. The new man, Hosie, did not strike me as being too good for the team he was with, but as a goal-keeper he proved that the City need not be alarmed if Williams cannot turn out at any time. He and Jones had one half of the to field to themselves almost in the second half, and what with running from one side to the other and taking free kicks I’ll warrant that the burly Welshman would welcome his bed on Saturday night, for the ground was in a terribly sticky conditions. The teams were;- Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Corren, forwards. Manchester City;- Williams, goal; Read and Jones, backs; Moffatt, Smith, and Hosie, half-backs; Meredith, Harvey, Cassidy, Williams, and Dougal, forwards. Referee; Mr. T.P. Campbell, Blackburn.
EVERTON 5 MANCHESTER CITY 2
Feburary 18 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
Hosie takes Williams place in goal, at the begin of second half, City down to ten men
The Everton team, after their fine performance at Southampton had a capital reception at Goodison Park on Saturday, when quite 20,000 spectators turned out to witness the return game with Manchester City. Turner, who was injured at Southampton, gave place to Corrin, while there were several changes in the City team. At 2-30 the players faced as follow: - Everton: - Muir, goal Balmer, and Eccles, backs Wolsteholmes, Booth, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Corrin, forwards. Manchester City: - Williams, goal, Read, and Jones, backs. Moffatt, Smith, and Hoale, halfbacks, Meredith, Harvey, Cassidy, Williams (f), and Dougal, forwards. The opening play was brisk, and interesting, and following several capital attempts to break through Settle took advantage of a slip by Williams, and put the first goal after twelve minutes play. On getting to work again, Meredith was conspicuous in an attacking movement, but there was no defeating the home defenders. Moffatt fouled Settle within the twelve yards line, with a resulting penalty kick goal, and for some time the “Cits” were kept firmly within their own half. A capital movement ended in Taylor adding a third. Play generally favoured the home side, though at times there were several capital sprints by the opposing wingers, but final efforts were abortive by reason of the able defence of Muir, Eccles and Balmer. At the interval the score stood: - Everton 3 goals, Manchester City nil. The visitors resumed with but tem men. Williams place in goal being filled by Hosie, while Jones represented the full back division. At once the play, as was only to be expected, became monotonously dull, on account of the frequent decisions for offside, and the spectators did not fall to give vent to their dissatisfaction. Hosie performed ably in goal, and several attacks on the home charge, looked like bringing about a tangible result, when Muir cleared with cleverness. Eventually Sharp tricked Jones, and put on a fourth goal, and an almost similar movement resulted in Taylor nothing a fifth. Meredith had the better of Eccles, and scored. and this was followed by another from the foot of Cassidy. No further scoring took place, and Everton won by 5 goals to two.
MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 3
February 18 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
This match was played at Hyde-road, before a good attendance. City played Gillespie, and Davidson, of the first team. Worthington started on behalf of Everton and after the usual returns, Gray notched the first goal for the visitors. This feat roused the home teams who bombardment of the visitors defence, Kitchen saving finely from Scotman Gillespie and Darnell. Up to the interval the City claimed the better part of the play, but failed to get on level terms with their opponents. Half time arrived with the score Everton 1 goal City nil. Upon restarting, the City went off with a rush, Hesham putting in a low shot, which brought Kitchen to his knees. The visitor's left wing got away, and from a foul against Munn, Roche scored the second point. Following this McDonald added a third. Just before the finish Gillespie scored for the home team, a fast game ending with the score City 1 goal Everton 3. (Game 23) Everton: - Kitchen goal, Halliday, and Crelly. Backs, Boyle, Green, and Taylor (r) halfbacks, Roche, McDonald, Worthington, Gary, and Corrin, forwards.
EVERTON REVIEW
February 18 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
The premier team of Manchester had not had a very enviable experience on the occasion of its visit to Liverpool in First League warfare. Last year, which was the first appearance of the “Cits” in the upper circle, a score of 4-0, was recorded against them at Goodison Park, whilst 5-2 was the result of their visit to Anfield, they being content with the two goals. In addition, it should be remembered that three defeats followed reverse at home from the two Liverpool teams, but although the Anfield eleven repeated their previous season's triumph at Hyde-road in December last. Everton had two months before this been vanquished on the same ground. The latter reverse was amply avenged on Saturday, when after a game which was in many respects sadly disappointing, five goals were again registered against the Mancunians, and the wonder is that this number was not materially increased. The character of the play was completely spoiled owing to the adoption of the one back system in the second half by the visitors, though to some extent they were justified in so doing, as their custodian, Williams had been prevented from turning out after the interval. Owing to injury received in the earlier portion of the contest. With a full complement of players, the “Cits” were overplayed, and whereas in the first half the game was one-sided, in the second portion it was off-sided. Everton had their opponents well in hand throughout, and the visitors defence was kept fully employed; in deed 20 minutes had elapsed before Muir was called upon to handle. During this period the home side had netted the ball thrice- once from a penalty kick- and it must be admitted that the play they fully deserved such a pronounced result. They were continually forcing the game, and the “cits”defence had all their work cut out to keep the sprightly invaders under anything approaching moderate control. On the other hand, the visitors, efforts were easily terminated spasmodic attempts being nipped in the bud by the Evertonians halves, though to some extent the halves were assisted by the methods adopted by their opponents, who indulged in too much close passing and selfish dribbling to command any chance of ultimate success. The wing forwards on the home side were given every chance of distinguishing themselves, and Sharp was about the most dangerous player on the field. His speed always gave him an advantage over the opposition, while his centres at the finish were most judiciously placed, and afforded the inside men every opportunity of turning them to full advantage. At the other extremity of the line, Corrin officiated in the absence of Turner, who was not quite fit, but somehow this young player seems disinclined to let himself go and his movements create the impression that the brake is always on. He was given numberous chances of demonstrating the ability but lack of confidence and hesitancy in moving affected the left winger's play considerably. Fore and at the home side allowed superior prowess, and doubtless the acquisition of five goals led to the defenders taking matters more confortably, and indulging in risks which, in a keenly contested combat, would not have occurred the result being that the visitors placed a couple of goals to their account in the last ten minute, and thus spoiled the symmetrical record of their entertainers. The absence of Ross no doubt affected the efficiency of Meredith's play, for Harvey, who filled the inside right position, was not a great success, in fact, the whole line seemed lacking in harmony, and a wholesale infusion of dash, and vigour would have materially benefited their movements. Their passing was overdone, and in front of goal, they were dreadfully weak. The halves were the best part of the team, but the defence was not very reliable, though of course, the compulsory rearrangements in the second half spoilt everything both from a player's and spectator's point of view. The two points were very welcome to Everton, who now rank sixth in the table of results, but League prospects jus now are somewhat overshadowed of Cup-tie honours. Saturday's game afforded no clue to the possibilities of victory this weekend at Sheffield for Everton were never really extended. It would be idea to underestimate the task, which awaits the Everton brigade at Bramell Lane, for the team that can defeat Sunderland at Wearside demands considerable respect. One thing, however, appears very clear, that Everton if at the top of their present form, will not be beaten without a great struggle.
EVERTON v. MANCHESTER CITY
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 18 February 1901
Everton reappeared at Goodison Park, after a month’s absence, their opponents being Manchester City. After the magnificent display of the Evertonians at Southampton, in the English Cup competition, the previous week, it was not surprising that a great crowd assembled to welcome them. Unfortunately Turner was unable to turn out on account of injuries, Corrin taking his place, whist Harvey substituted Ross for the City. The ground was slightly heavy from the sudden thaw. There would be close upon 20,000 present when the teams lined up. The weather was gloriously fine mild, and the spectators were enabled to thoroughly enjoy themselves. Everton lost the toss, Proudfoot starting the game against a slight breeze. The City were the first to make their presence felt, Meredith making strong headway, but the ball was driven harmlessly over the line. The play was somewhat tame, and neither side for a while seemed to infuse much heart into their work. Everton took a free kick, which, however, was of no further importance, the sphere being driven over the line. The goal-kick was responded to by Eccles, following which Sharp dodged Hosier in fine style, centreing well, but Settle had his kick charged down, the ensuing stages of the game being in midfield, until Abbott sent the ball wide. Following the kick-out, Booth and Abbott each miskicked Cassidy getting away and passing out to Meredith, who although closely attended by Eccles, managed to get in his final shot, which was anything but of a startling nature. Soon after this Sharp and Taylor because very busy, and were soon close to the Manchester quarter-line, where Jones earned howls of derision by kicking out. However, a moment later Wolstenholme put in a very fine shot, and end-to-end play ensued. A lovely cross went to Meredith, who was pulled up for infringing the offside rule. The Everton front rank then went very strongly, and at the end of a brilliant move they closed in, but when the critical moment came Taylor was pronounced offside, the crowd giving vent to their feelings at the referee’s decision. The free kick was responded to by Wolstenholme, Sharp taking up the running, and he with his partner indulged in some excellent exchanges, the outside man ultimately shooting in. Williams rushed out and succeeded in staving off temporary defeat. His clearance, however, was not effectual and Settle dashing up planted the sphere safely in the net after fourteen minutes play. The game now livened up very considerably. Everton particularly displaying great form. After Manchester had made an abortive attack the home forward quarter got going in splendid fashion. Settle ultimately was badly fouled by Moffatt within the twelve-yards line, the result being a penalty kick, from which the home captain had no difficulty in putting on a second goal, sixteen minutes having now elapsed. By and by Corrin travelled down the home left, and after bustling moves in the corner the ball was sent bouncing to the centre, where Taylor was standing. He merely raised his leg when the ball was passing, and luckily caught the sphere, which passed into the corner of the net, and scored Everton’s third goal, this lucky stroke being hugely relished by the crowd. Several of the City players protested against the point, notably Williams (goalkeeper), but the referee was inflexible, and sternly pointed to the centre, where the Evertonians were waiting for the restart. Three goals in twenty minutes was most exhilarating from an Evertonian standpoint, and naturally the crowd was in great spirits. Manchester City, to their credit be it said, did not lose heart, even in face of this formidable balance against them, and the Everton defence was troubled severely during the next few minutes. Jones by a huge kick put the Mancunians van in possession, grand forward work resulting before Dougal shot wide. The game was now being hotly contested and each goal the scene of exciting episodes. Turner had the field almost to himself but at last shot badly. At the other end Meredith, by a fine effort almost had the better of Muir, who by a brilliant piece of work kept his goal intact. Following this, Everton attacked with great determination. Corrin and Settle working beautifully together, and when the former centred Taylor, from a splendid position, shot wide. Williams in his effort to get at the ball, injured himself, but fortunately was soon able to resume. Everton were having almost all the attack at this stage, but a divergence was caused by the visitors making a couple of flying raids. Harvey and Meredith doing their almost to lower Muir’s citadel. The City also took an abortive corner, and during the next few minutes Kept up a hot fusillade, Moffatt ultimately putting up in a very warm one to the home custodian who saved a brilliant style, to the accompaniment of ringing cheers. a fine burst by Sharp found Settle in possession, but he could only head wide. Both side attacked after this, Meredith and Proudfoot each being pulled up for off-side. At half-time Everton were leading by the comfortable margin of 3 goals to nil. On the players reappearing it was noticed that Williams did not accompany his team, he not having recovered from the injuries received in the first half. Hosie took up the goal position. Read going to half, the City thus playing a one-back game. On resuming the visitors attacked strongly, keeping the home defenders busy until Booth worked through, Corrin making a good though futile effort to add to Everton’s score. The play was, however, often spoiled on account of the Blues’ forwards being frequently pulled up for offside on account of the City’s weakened forces. The City were very aggressive for some time, and Meredith often conspicuous, Eccles was difficult to pass, however, and once checked the Manchester flier when a score seemed certain whilst at the other end Sharp had a shie, only to see Smith head away. At this stage Everton played up with great spirit, the forwards combining splendidly, and as a result Hosie was frequently called upon. Taylor and Booth each put in brilliant shots, Hosie in both instances saving his charge in masterly fashion, and it was difficulty to believe that Williams was absent. Play fluctuated after this, Harvey and Cassidy indulging in a nice-concerted movement, which enabled Dougal to make a bold bid for goal, but Booth dashed up at the right moment and intercepted his shot. After Balmer and Eccles had each effected clever clearance, the home van made rapid tracks for the City end, Hosie again repelling a hot from Proudfoot. After this Muir had a warm few minutes, two shots from short range causing some trouble, but he averted disaster. The Everton forwards again attacked with genuine earnestness, Sharp running away at top speed, and rounding Jones very cleverly literally carried the ball into the net at the end of his toes. Cassidy and Meredith both unsuccessfully tested Muir after this, following which Sharp again beat Jones, and Taylor being close at hand, planted the ball into the net for the fifth time. Towards the end Manchester asserted themselves, and Eccles letting in Meredith, the latter scored, Cassidy following with another before the end. Result; Everton 5 goals, Manchester City 2. Teams; Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (Captain), and Corrin, forwards. Manchester City;- Williams, goal; Jones and Reid, backs; Moffatt, Smith, and Hosie, half-backs; Meredith, Harvey, Cassidy, Williams, and Dougal, forwards.
LIVERPOOL CHAT
Football Chat and Athletic World- Wednesday 20 February 1901
By “Mersey Mentor”
Everton were in their best goal-getting form against Manchester City, and over 20,000 people enjoyed their first game at Goodison park for a month. The Everton forwards never played better football and being three up at the interval it looked all over bar shouting. As a matter of fact it was for the City goalkeeper could not turn out and the half-back line had to be weakened to allow Hosie to fall back in goal. The old Rover played almost brilliantly between the sticks; but two of the shots he could not stop. Muir was hardly troubled until close upon time, and then he suddenly gave away a couple of goals to Meredith and Cassidy in a startling manner. Still 5 to 2 will do to go on with.
Everton’s task at Sheffield on Saturday is not considered a light one by any of the most enthusiastic section of the Everton followers; at the same time, few men in Liverpool, who take interest in the doings of the Cup opponents of Sheffield United, doubt the ability of the Everton representatives to get through at Sheffield. It will be a game only second to the one at Villa Park for attendance; in point of interest I think it will be superior. Everton are very sweet on winning the Cup this season.
SHEFFIELD NOTES AND NOTIONS
Football Chat and Athletic World - Wednesday 20 February 1901
By “Vulcanus”
I have left until the last the most important topic of all in Sheffield this week, and that is the English Cup-tie at Bramall Lane on Saturday. The Fats have fixed Sheffield United to meet Everton, and the crowd of enthusiasts in this city rejoice thereat. There are teams who would be fairly easy to dispose of, and who have gone elsewhere for the second round; but if the United had been allowed their own choice, they would probably have alighted on the Toffeemen for slaughter. This season the two teams have shared the points in the League, Everton winning by 3 to 1 at Goodison Park and United at Bramall Lane on Christmas Day by 2 to 1. We do not, however, forget that our men were extremely lucky to win, and it is the remembrance of the Merseyside’s fine play on that day which causes us to anticipate a fine battle on Saturday. On once, as far as I can remember, have United and Everton met in the English Cup competition, and that was in the season 1895-6. In the first round United had beaten Burton Wanderers, after a drawn game, and were fixed for Everton at Goodison Park in the second round. The Sheffield lost by 3 goals to nil, but had the satisfaction of seeing Wednesday defeat their victors by 4 to nil in the following round. (and in passing I may say that United beat Wednesday in a “friendly” two days later by 5 goals to nil. There’s form !!) That season the Cup was brought to Sheffield by Wednesday for the first time.
Everton and Sheffield United’s first opponents in the League and it was at Goodison park, where the Lane team scored their initial victory in the premier competition. Since then they have beaten Everton home and away, and the record for sixteen League matches is, United won seven, lost five, and drawn four, with 29 goals for, to 25 against. The United players are this week undergoing strict training at Skegness on the Lincolnshire coast, a place which has already proved of good service to Notts Forest, and with all the recently injured men completely recovered, we are surely not too sanguine in anticipating that on Saturday evening the name of Sheffield United will be found entitled to take its place in the draw for the Third round for the English Cup.
FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 21 February 1901
EVERTON v. SHEFFIELD UNITED
For their English Cup game with Sheffield United, which will be played at Bramall-lane on Saturday, and which is arousing tremendous interest both in the seaport and the cutlery capital, the Everton executive have decided to reply upon their usual eleven, and will be represented as follows;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Turner, forwards. The train leaves Central Station at 11.20, the kick-off being fixed for 3.30.
EVERTON v BURY (RESERVES)
This Combination match is fixed to take place at Goodison Park on Saturday next, when it anticipated the home team will take revenge for the only defeat inflicted upon them in the competition this season. Bury, however, have not suffered a reverse since November and Everton will have to strain every nerve to gain full points. Telephone messages will be sent from Sheffield every fifteen minutes giving the progress of the Cup tie. The kick off is timed for 3.30 and the following will represent the home club;- Kitchen, goal; Halliday and Crelly; backs; Blythe, Green, and Taylor, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Worthington, Gray, and O’Brien, forwards.
THE CUP-TIE AT SHEFFIELD
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 23 February 1901
For their English Cup game with Sheffield United, which will be played at Bramall lane, the Everton executive have decided to rely upon their usual eleven, and will be represented as follows;- Muir, goal; Balmer, and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Turner, forwards. The train leaves Central Station at 11.20 the kick-off being fixed for 3.30. the interest in the game increases daily. The Everton Club official excursions by the Great Central Railway leaving at 11.20 and 12.15 promise to be record trains. Already six private saloons are booked for the 11.20 train. The team accompanied by the directors and the genial secretary, Mr. Molyneux, leave by the 11.20 train (Great Central).
Messrs Thomas Cook and Son have arranged cheap special excursion bookings, via the Midland Railway’s quick express trains, leaving Liverpool Central Station at 8.20 a.m., 10.30 a.m., and 12 noon, and, with a view of getting passengers by the latter train into Sheffield in good time for the march against Sheffield United to-day, every endeavour will be made by make’s quick run, this enabling passengers to obtain their seats on the ground in good time.
EVERTON COMBINATION v. BURY RESERVES
The Lancashire Combination match is fixed to take place at Goodison Park, when it is anticipated the home team will take revenge for the only defeat inflicted upon them in the competition this season. Telephone messages will be sent from Sheffield every fifteen minutes giving the progress of the Cup tie. The kick off is timed for 3.30 and the following will represent the home club; Kitchen, goal; Halliday and Crelly backs; Blythe, Green, and Taylor, half-backs; Roche, Dawson, Worthington, Gray, and O’Brien, forwards.
EVERTON v SHEFFIELD UNITED
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 23 February 1901
ENGLISH CUP-TIE
Having successfully negotiated the first hurdle in the English Cup Competition by overthrowing Southampton, Everton were called upon to undertake an even more difficult task to-day, by being drawn to oppose Sheffield United in the cutlery capital. Notwithstanding the apparent arduousness of the struggle the Blues approached the impending conflict without imperturbability, and were quietly confident in their ability to at least make a gallant fight with their redoubtable opponents. The rival teams adopted different methods of preparing for the event, for whilst Sheffield made Skegness their headquarters during the past week, Everton were content to do extra training within the Liverpool distinct, which consisted of long walks into the country and sprints on their own ground. Both in Liverpool and Sheffield the tie was looked upon with a tremendous amount of interest, and from the Central Station no less than six crowded excursions were run to the Yorkshire centre. The Everton men, accompanied by the directors and secretary, left at 11.20, arriving at their destination about two o’clock. The weather on the journey was of the most varied character, but in Sheffield it was of the vilest possible description, rain falling in torrents, whilst the light was by no means good. It may be mentioned that each team had won the League game on their respective enclosures, but it was admitted on all hands that the United were somewhat lucky to defeat the Evertonians at Sheffield at Christmas. On reaching the ground matters meteorological were wretched in the extreme. The rain was still coming down piteously, whilst the playing arena, which was entirely shorn of grass, was in a very heavy conditions, rendering it exceedingly treacherous. Fortunately both teams were at full strength, and turned out as follows;- Everton; Muir, goal; Blamer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (Captain), Turner, forwards. Sheffield United; Foukes, goal; Thickett, Boyle, backs; Johnson, Morren, Needham (Captain), half-backs; Bennett, Field, Hedley, Priest, Lipsham, forwards. Under ordinary circumstances the holding capacity of the United enclosure would have been severely taxed, but the inclement conditions somewhat damped the ardour of intending early arrivals. Nevertheless, half an hour prior to the start here was a tremendous attendance, and before a start was made almost every point of vantage was occupied by eager enthusiasts who whiled away the tedium by discussing the chances of their respective favourites. The Blue and white colours of the Evertonians were very conspicuous in the breast of a large contingent, and it was quite evident that the visitors did not lack a numerous following. Eight minutes from the time announced for hostilities to commence Settle led his men on to the field, and they were immediately followed by the Blades, each team being vociferously received. When the rival captains advanced to toss for choice of positions there were fully 25,000 spectators present. Settle won the toss, and United defended Bramall Lane goal, there being little or no wind, whilst the rain had considerably abated. Hedley started the game, and it at once became evident that neither side was going to give anything away. Everton got away beautifully along the slippery turf, Proudfoot and Settle working splendidly together, but the wretched turf was twice responsible for Turner failing to reach the sphere before it rolled outside. After a spell of midfield work, Morren passed finely out to Lipsham, who got in a magnificent centre, which, however, went about a yard wide. Tricky work between Naylor and Sharp and a judicious move on the part of Proudfoot and Settle found Turner in possession, but he was badly hampered by Thickett, and consequently his shot failed to take effect. From the goal kick United dashed away. Bennett forcing a corner of Eccles, and from the kick the Everton goal was subjected to a somewhat severe bombardment. Priest ultimately shooting wide. United were undoubtedly adopting themselves much better to the prevailing circumstances than were the Evertonians during the next five minutes. The Blades kept up a hot fusillade on Muir’s citadel. Bennett, Priest and Hedley each made fine attempts from the latter of which Balmer effected a most wonderful; clearance. The pressure was kept up for some moments, Morren making a fine overhead kick, which Muir kept out in brilliant fashion, Johnson ultimately bringing the pressure to a close by shooting high over the bar. By way of a change, Everton assumed the aggressive, grand work by Wolstenholme giving Proudfoot a fine opening. He, however, preferred to give Sharp a chance. But the latter failed to elude the watchful vigilance of Boyle. A fine rush by the home vanguard was excellently checked by Booth, after Wolstenholme had failed to bring Lipsham to bay. Balmer conceded a corner, this being negotiated at the expense of and similar advantage to the Cutlers. On this occasion Lipsham placed the ball right in the teeth of the Everton goal. Hedley heading in, and Muir bringing off a wonderful save. The game was of a typical cup tie order, and this coupled with the terrible state of the turf, was naturally responsible for many mistakes on both sides. Once or twice Everton tried the short passing game, but their efforts in this respect were rudely upset by the keenness of the Blades’ defence. After a spell of hard work near the dividing line, Sheffield again made progress along the right wing, Johnson placing a superb shot into Muir, who defended in equally gallant fashion. A long pass by Wolstenholme placed Everton with an open goal, but in order to defeat the end in view. Rickett kicked consolation to Everton, being a profitless corner. Even at this early stage, before half an hour had expired, the light began to fail, and there seemed every prospect of a dark and dismal finish. It was bright enough to observe however, that the United were having more than an equal share of the exchange and brilliant back play by Balmer and Eccles and excellent goalkeeping by Muir kept the Everton goal intact. At length, however, the Blues asserted themselves, Booth initiating a very warm onslaught. Sharp passed finely to Proudfoot, the latter a glorious opening but hesitancy cost him an almost certain goal, for Thickett dashed up and literally took the ball from under his feet. Everton, however, maintained the attack for some time, and after forcing an unproductive corner, Proudfoot and Taylor worked beautifully down. Boyle preventing the inside man from giving the final touches to a magnificent all-round effort. Everton seemed to have thoroughly found their feet, and the Sheffield defenders knew it, for the clever tactics of the visiting quintet constantly kept the home defence busy. A couple of most meritorious attempts were made by Taylor and Proudfoot, whilst Sharp was always a prominent factor, suddenly a change came over the scene, Muir weakly clearing too near his own line. The throw-in enabled the United to put on pressure, and after the ball had once bene kept out Bennett obtained possession, and with a fine oblique shot he beat the Everton custodian this coming after half an hour’s play. The Blues were by no means disconcerted at this reverse, and made straight for the goal from the centre. Turner putting in a very hot one to Foulkes, who saved in his usual style. The pace was being kept up wonderfully well, and neither side flagged in their strenuous attempts to do their best, the heavy turf, however, was beginning to tell its inevitable tale on one or two of the men. Wolstenholme led another attack on the home citadel and though a little later he put in a good shot. Foulke easily cleared. The next to be conspicuous were Taylor and Turner, the latter grandly eluding all opposition, but he shot wide. As the interval drew near, United reasserted themselves, and after several attempts had failed, Bennett put in a beauty, which failed to take effect.
Half-time; Sheffield United 1 goal, Everton Nil.
As the game progressed it became evident that the United were wearing their opponents down, the heavy ground appearing to distress several of the Everton players. A miskick by Eccles let in Bennett, who dashed down in magnificent style and scoring a second goal. After this the home team continued to have matters almost all their own way. The Everton forwards, it is true, got down once or twice, but their shooting lacked fire. Final Result Sheffield United 2 goals, Everton Nil.
EVERTON COMBIANTION v. BURY RESERVE
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, February 23, 1901
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
The return Lancashire Combination match between the above teams was played at Goodison Park this afternoon in presence of about 6,000 spectators. The Bury captain won the toss, Worthington kicking off for Everton. Some little time passed before either sets of players were enabled to get far away from the centre line, the first chance being afforded to Bury, who from a free kick made a bold bid, and directly afterwards gained a corner. Porter sending behind. After this Everton pressed and gained a fruitless corner, but they did not keep up the attack for any length of time. Bury getting away right and left, Bennett shooting wide. A grand shot at the Bury goal from O’Brien was splendidly saved by Wolstenholme, and, keeping up the pressure, the homesters soon had a further shot rattled home by Green, but this went beside the mark. Worthington started when the game had been in progress little less than half an hour. Walker went away on the left, and passed to the centre, Booth sending to the extreme right. Here Porter came in, and with a pretty oblique shot completely beat Kitchen, who in his attempts to save, came down heavily. A sudden dash was made by the Bury left wing, at the end of which Walker sent a lofty shot over the Everton goal.
Half-time score;- Bury 1 goal, Everton nil.
Final Result; Everton 3 goals, Bury 1 goal.
PERTAINING TO PROMINENT PLAYERS
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 23 February 1901
By Perseus
SAM WOLSTENHOLMES
Wolstenholme’s selection for the international trial at the Crystal Palace on Monday is deservedly popular. No blare of trumpets proclaimed his engagement when he joined Everton, yet in the space of two or three years he has blossomed into one of the most consistent players in this very expensive team. Many a man has gone to Goodison Park with a great name and failed to play up to it; but here the boot is on the other foot, for Wolstenholme has made his reputation there -a happy variation. Bury have most frequently been the club to snap up these promising Lancashire-bred footballers—a class to which Wolstenholme belongs, for he was born, I believe, at Little Lever, and played in his younger days at Farnworth and Horwich. I have said younger, but in truth he is only about 22 even now. A very sound player is this light-haired Little Leverite, not showy, but effective. Usefully-built, he possesses an athletic frame and good stamina; his judgment is seldom faulty, in this resembling his accurate feeding; he tackles, too. with some skill, and is altogether a capable, business-like right half.
STORRIER
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 23 February 1901
By Perseus
Storrier, the burly back who used to sport the Everton colours, was such a pronounced success for Scotland in the Inter-League fixture with Ireland that he is now reckoned to have an excellent chance of another cap against England. He obtained this honour two years ago at Birmingham, yet for myself I scarcely fancied him quick enough, his movements being somewhat ponderous- in this in keeping with his heavy build.
FAMOUS CLUBS AND GROUNDS
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 23 February 1901
SMALL HEATH
By Perseus
Borne high on the swelling wave of success Small Heath are heading straight for the First Division, besides which they have won their first heat in the race for the Cup. I wonder whether this afternoon they have come through the second round in the latter event, and while thus wondering, and- possibly hoping that Burnley may have stayed their victorious course, let us look at the eventful career, of the ambitious Heathens. Success and ambition! Think a moment and see if the terms cannot be justified. I know that in a monetary sense the club’s course even this season has not been so smooth as it should have been, for only a short time ago gloomy financial forebodings formed a dark cloud in a sky which ought to have been bright with victory rightto the very horizon. Noting, as I pass, an improvement in the outlook from this standpoint, let me come to the real point—success on the playing field this season. Of course you know that they are running a neck and neck race with Burnley and Grimsby for the championship of Division 11.. and thus to a place in the premier circle? Nay, more, is itnot a fact that only once in their 22 League games to date have they had to strike their colours to the 'foe, that foe being Burnley, who struggled through a strenuous match at Coventry road practically on the eve of Christmas- happy augury, mayhap, for to-day’s Cup-tie on the same ground. Or look at another point of the Heathen’s record; in these same 22 matches only a dozen goals have been put up against them—an achievement to which Burnley’s loss of 17 in 24 fixtures is an easy second. And when one reflects on the strength of the latter’s defence it is not easy to curb a natural impulse to enthusiastic praise of the solid Small Heath rock on which so many sets of forwards have battered in vain. You will grant, then, that the word success is not misused in application to the season’s doings.
FIRST DIVISION AMBITIONS.
Now as to ambition! What but this has kept the club’s sails flying, for rough seas of adverse fortune have often been encountered since the Small Heath ship was launched in 1874. That takes you back a very long way into the days of amateurism and to times when some of our leading clubs of the present were still unborn. Indeed, so remote a date conjures up recollections of the Wanderers, Royal Engineers, and the famous Old Boy clubs; or to come into the Midlands and to Small Heath's own door, we may recall such names as Wednesbury Old Athletic, Birmingham St. George's, Stafford-road (Wolverhampton), and Walsall Swifts among the clubs of a bygone generation, while Villa were practically contemporary with Small Heath, both being founded about 1874. All honour is due to Mr. W. W. Hart, to Mr. Alfred Jones, and others who have kept the ship afloat while so many of the other old ones have foundered. Of course Villa are still going as healthy as you like, and clubs like Notts County, the Forest, Stoke, and Sheffield Wednesday have had longer voyages even than Small Heath, but the last named has been faced by exceptional difficulties, which they have nevertheless managed to surmount. Ever since the institution of the League, the Birmingham district has bad three clubs in this leading circle—Villa, Albion, and the Wolves; the three between them have carried off the Cup half a dozen times, and Small Heath's most immediate rivals for the suffrages of the Birmingham public—that is the Villa—have on five occasions been League champions. Against this set the fact that the Heathens have only been in Division I, two seasons, viz., in 1894-5 and 1895-6, and it will easily be imagined that it has been a hard fight to maintain a hold in a town offering such strong counter-attractions. The only consideration, I think, which has enabled the Heathens to stick at the uphill struggle so long has been the ambition to fight their way once again into the company of the “First 18”- an achievement which may see consummated ere the end of the coming April.
A UNIQUE RECORD.
One of our old clubs in the length of its existence. Small Heath also claims to have been quick to adopt professionalism as soon as was legalised by the powers that preside at headquarters in London. On another point the club was absolutely first in the field, for it, was the first football club in the country to be registered as a limited liability company—the beginning of a movement which has since embraced so many of our big organisations. With the conversion into a company came the present name, for hitherto the club had been known as Small Heath Alliance. This reflection reminds me of the danger of over-running hasty history I wish to sketch. So to hark back to the club’s foundation in the seventies, we find that Small Heath, like Villa and Albion sprang from an organisation devoted to ye ancientgame of cricket, the members scarcely relishing the idea of their athletic powers rusting right through the winter. The particular cricket club in this case was known as Trinity C.C., and the enthusiastic members who went in for footer were for the nonce content to try their paces on a piece of waste ground ; then they obtained a ground at Sparkbrook, while as early as 78 they made the acquaintance of the present pitch, which is known to the football world as Coventry-road. Great changes have been made in its appointments and surroundings since that time, but it is Coventry-road still, and the ground on which Arthur and the other members the James brotherhood used to perform 20 years ago is the one on which Caesar Jenkyns at a later date, and McRoberts, and the rest of those who belong absolutely to the present day, hare also accomplished their best deeds of football skill. By the by, only £8 was paid in rent during the first season’s tenancy.
THE LEAGUE SEE-SAW.
Club matches and cup ties composed the programme; the former gradually increased in quality, the Wednesbury, Walsall, Wolverhampton, and Birmingham clubs recognising in Small Heath opponents worthy of their steel, while in the early eighties the Heathens won a success in Cup-tie football by annexing the Walsall Cup—a praiseworthy performance dwarfed, however, two or three seasons later by the team running into the semi-final for the national trophy. In spite of this, however, the Heathens have never been reckoned great Cup fighters; indeed, they have done nothing to merit such estimation. After the era of Leagues came in, we find them figuring in the Alliance, where their finest battles were those with Notts Forest, the rivalry between the two being exceedingly keen, and on the old Gregory ground in the lace city, also at Coventry-road, some hard matches have been fought. When the Alliance as such ceased to exist, and the Second Division of the League was established. Small Heath became members of the second circle. More, they championed it the first year, and having done this, it was a cruel blow to their hopes when Newton Heath beat them in the since wisely-abolished test matches. How hard it was on a team which had played consistently well the season through to be doomed to remain in the lower ring simply because it failed to win one given match. Happily, the Heathens were not discouraged, and next year, by virtue of being second, they again took part in the test matches, this time with success, triumphing, I believe, over dear old Darwen. For two years the Heathens remained in exalted company, without, however, shining with any brightness, but in four seasons that have sincepassed they have acquitted themselves well in the Second Division, until now they are qualifying again for promotion-at least so it seems. Should they succeed, let us hopes that they will rise to the height even of the best company.
SAMPLE HEATHENS.
Their team to-day contains chiefly players of solid business like character rather than stars of the profession, men for instance like Alec Leake, who succeeded Jenkyns in the half-back line, and ultimately in the captaincy, too. Pratt, at present on the injured list, is a rare-good back, and Wigmore, who is one of Leake’s colleagues in the intermediate line, is a distinctly serviceable half, while forward McRoberts, the go-ahead centre from Gainsborough Trinity, is perhaps the best known of a bustling quintette. Of best members of the team the most familiar figure perhaps is that of the aforesaid Jenkyns, who boasts, I believe the awe-inspiring Christian name of Caesar Augustus Llewellyn. Those of us who have seen his burly form on the field, particularly in his brightest days, will not readily forget the powerful Welshman: he filled the eye in the truest sense, and though he got a rather unenviable name for-the summary methods he sometimes employed, he had many admirers. That he was an effective half back nobody will deny, and during his long connection with Small Heath he saw the best years of his career. Another notable Heathen of past days.Wheldon, is known to fame as a Villan, yet his once famous sharpshooter is thought by some to have been at his best before he transferred his services;at the same time he was a star of the first magnitude with Villa, and three seasons since, when capped against Scotland—indeed, in all three internationals -he was, perhaps, the surest shot in the kingdom. And even as recently as last season when theKaffirs saw him play they thought him a very magician so clever was his dribbling. If one were to come to a rather lower standard, one might point out many ex-Heathens like Clutterbuck, the custodian and the half-back, Abbott, who is playing for Everton but when you have written the names of Jenkyns, Wheldon and Leake you have a trio of Heathens better known than any others you might mention.
VIGOUR IN CUP TIES
Ere closing this brief article let me say another word or two about Small Heath’s football recently in the first round of the competition for the Cup. If all that is said thereon in Stoke were correct, there would be no alternative to the idea that the Heathens adopted tactics unnecessarily rough. Indeed, the comments from the Potteries are anything but complimentary. Some allowance, however, may possibly be necessary for the smart occasioned in that district by the defeat of Stoke, for it was a nasty blow. The referee has been blamed for what are described as bad mistakes, Small Heath players for uncalled-for vigour; and though one cannot attach much weight to the complaints of partisans, it is worthy of note that Mr. W. McGregor of Birmingham, makes the following comments on the replay between Small Heath and Stoke:—“ Small Heath were lucky in having their first goal allowed, and also in escaping a penalty against them. . . McRoberts has got into a nasty habit of going for the goalkeeper in an objectionable manner. Wilkes received a nasty injury at his hands.” Mr. McGregor’s criticism we may take as strictly impartial, and therefore it would appear that, the Heathens had bit of luck. In the past they have not had too much of this acceptable article. Having had two games in their first round tie, and just recently a big League gate, with the prospect of a good crowd again to-day, the club’s financial state has been bettered. Recently, it may be remembered, national events enforced a fortnights holiday, and Small Heath players, knowing the position of the club, voluntarily offered to forego a week's wages; the directors appreciated such signal expression of loyalty and accepted the offer, but the excellent receipts since then have caused authorities hand the aforesaid week’s remuneration over to the men. The incident does credit to professional football.
“OLD BOYS” FOOTBALL CLUBS
The Lancashire Daily Post- Saturday, February 23, 1901
Notwithstanding the enormous development professional football during the last decade, the “Old Boy” clubs, says the “Sketch” in an interesting article, have lost none their popularity, even though their skill may relatively have abated. They remain the last relic of the days when football was a game, and not a business, and it is not much say that on them depends the very existence of amateurism. Compared with some the “Old Boy ” clubs, the oldest of the League teams are the merest mushrooms. The Old Etonians were founded as far back as 1865, and it is worth noting that Lord Kinnaird, who as the Hon. Arthur Kinnaird, convened the meeting for starting the club, occasionally takes part in a game to-day. Thirty-five years active must surely be a record. In the early ’eighties the Old Etonians were probably the best club England. They won the Association Cup in 1879, and were in the final round in 1882 (when they scored their second victory), and alsoin 1875, 1876, 1881, and 1885. Having competed in six final ties, they share with Blackburn Rovers, who also participated in six, the honour of holding the record in this respect. Of late years the “O. B.’s,” however, have been unable to keep pace with the professional element, or even to hold their own among the amateurs. It is difficult to explain this falling off, unless it that the conditions of modern football do not offer the same attractions as formerly, for there are still many promising youngsters in the school teams. The Old Etonians have numbered in their ranks some of the finest footballer! that ever put on a boot. To mention only few names, there are R. C. Gosling, who, in the opinion of many good judges, was the finest forward in England from 1892 to 1897: A. T. B. Dunn, the only man living who has ever played for England both as a forward and a back; C. J. Ottaway, and P. J. de Paravicini, whose knack of half-volleying a heavy, greasy football has never been equalled. At the present day. THE OLD CARTHUSIANS
probably hold larger space in the public eye than any of the other” Old Boy” clubs. The annual yield of first-class footballers from Charterhouse is undiminished. Their record in the English Cup, inasmuch as they won that trophy only once, is inferior to that of the Old Etonians, but their play has been much more consistently excellent. Excluding the Corinthians, the Old Carthusians have probably been the strongest purely amateur team in England for the last ten years. During that period they have taken part five times in the final for the London Charity Cup, they have won the London Cup four times, and during the four years in which they competed for the Amateur Cup they won it twice. No club can show a longer list of famous internationals. The names of A. M. and P. M. Walters, G. O. Smith. W. N. Cobbold, and C. Wreford-Brown will be remembered as long as football is played. It is not generally known, by the way, that it was four Old Carthusians who helped to found Stoke, the oldest club in the Football League. The four happened to be pupils at the time in the locomotive works of the North Staffordshire Railway at Stoke, and, finding that there was no opportunity of exercising their favourite pastime in the town, they sought recruits from the sons of the manufacturers in the neighbourhood, and so brought the Stoke club into being. Like the Old Etonians, the pristine glory of the Old Westerners has of late somewhat faded, but the club is still a force to be reckoned with in amateur circles. The Old Westminster’s have won the London Cup five times, and once also beaten the eventual winners, but were disqualified owing to a technicality; and in 1886-6,. when Ashburnham Rovers won, ten of the team were Old Westminsters, and the eleventh the son of a Westminster master. Once the club has won the London Charity Cup, in 1889, when they beat the Swifts, who produced an extremely strong eleven. Not so long ago, three Old Westminsters—W. R. Moon, J. G. Veitch. and R. R. Sandilands—were the mainstay of the Corinthians, and it is hard to account for the lack of success of a team which numbers among its playing members the two Moons, R. N. R. Blaker, H. O. C. Beasley, and F. Young. Among other famous Old Westminsters should be mentioned R. W. Sealey-Vidal, who played for England v. Scotland while still a schoolboy; the meteoric Harrison; N. C. Bailey, who holds, jointly with G. O. Smith, the record of taking part in 19 international matches; and R. L. Aston, who forsook the Association code for the Rugby, but to such good purpose that he played the English Fifteen v. Scotland in 1890.
THE LATEST RECRUITS
To the ranks of the “Old Boy” clubs are certainly not the least distinguished. The Old Malvernians Club, which was founded only three years ago, is to-day one of the strongest in the London district. No task ought to be too big for a club which counts among its playing members R. E. Foster, of double-century fame. C. J. Burnup, S. H. Day, and G. H. Simpson-Hayward. Their five nil defeat in November by the Old Carthusians was a nasty jar, but such unpleasant “incidents” will occasionally happen in the best-regulated football teams and armies. Possibly owing to their confining their matches mainly to Essex, the Old Foresters have never enjoyed the fame they deserve. Since the club started, in 1875, it has provided the Corinthians with such well-known players as F. R. Pelly, the International back. R. C. and A. N. Guy. R. H. Foy, and S. H. J. Russell. All Old Foresters like remember their famous struggle in the English Cup at Leyton against Preston North End, when the “ Old Boys” were beaten only two goals to nil.
SHEFFIELD UNITED 2 EVERTON 0
February 25 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
Quite 25,000 spectators lined the Bramell Lane enclosure on Saturday to witness the Cup tie between the above teams, which the exception of Johnson for Beers, were identical with the sides that took part in the initial round. At 3-30 the players took up their position as follow: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Balmer, and Eccles backs, Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (captain), and Turner forwards. Sheffield United: - Foulkes, goal, Thickett, and Boyle, backs, Johnson, Morren, and Needham (captain), halfbacks, Bennett, Field, Hedley, Priest, and Lipsham, forwards. The ground was very heavy owing to recent rains, but this defect did not appear to hamper the game, for at once the pace was brisk, and moreover well sustained. Play was exceptionally keen, and though the United were more vigorous in their methods, there was little indeed between the teams during the first 30 minutes of the game. Then Bennett took advantage of hesitancy on the part of Eccles, and put on the first goal the outcome of a free kick-and this was the only point scored up to the change of ends. Both teams started strongly, in the second half and as the game progressed the Evertonians held a slight lead. They, however, failed to make the best of their chances and after a quarter of an hour's play, Bennett again got the better of Eccles, and by a brilliant individual effort put his side further ahead. This reverse had a demoralising effect upon the visitors' subsequent play, and most of the attacking was done by the United, without however, further score, and Sheffield men won by 2 goals to nil.
EVERTON RESERVESS 3 BURY RESERVES 1
February 25 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
At Goodison Park, before 5,000 people. Bury kept pegging away, and nice passing by Booth gave Pooley a chance, and he beat Kitchen, score at half-time- Bury 1 goal, Everton nil. After ten minutes play in the second half Gray scored from a penalty. The game went all in favour of Everton, and at length Dawson drew ahead. Worthington scored before the finish. Result Bury 1 Everton 3. (Game 24) Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Halliday, and Crelly, backs, Blythe, Green, and Taylor (r), halfbacks, Roche Dawson, Worthington, Gray, and O'Brien, forwards.
SHEFFIELD UNITED V. EVERTON
Sheffield Independent - Monday 25 February 1901
Sheffield united entered the third round, and entered it in a manner which suggests that they may go further yet. The weather at Bramell Lane on Saturday was wet, and the going was heavy; but none the less the contest between United and Everton was a capital one, and United's victory by two goals to goals to none was thoroughly deserved. They played with rare spirit; the Everton goal was always in danger whenever the ball came near it; and the whole team animated by that pluck, resourcefulness, and go-ahead determation which tend more than anything else to carry a team well the front this competition. Everton often showed good form; but they missed opportunities, and lacked the dash their adversaries. It was a far better game than could have been expected under the circumstanes, and those who were not deterred by the weather from visiting Bramell lane were well rewarded. It is to be hoped that United, who have won two splendid successes in the first and sceond rounds, will maintain the high standard they have reached. If they do, the club that has tp oppose them is not to be envied.
GREAT DAY FOR SHEFFIELD
Athletic News - Monday 25 February 1901
UNITED STILL STAND
By Nondescript.
Another Liverpool ship went down on Saturday, entailing a loss of all hands and a cargo of the best hopes which have been grown for some years on the Goodison plantations. ‘Tis marvelous what they cannot do at the seaport. One bargained for the red-shirted pirates of Anfield-road being sent to an early grave, but the idea was very largely subscribed to that the steadier going Blues would have a much pleasanter passage. It was not to be, however, and another wreck on the Bramall sands has to be added to the list. In this case it was the more disastrous because it was not altogether expected, and quite a large party came through from the west coast in hopes of at age least seeing the craft float off without damage. It really seems, however, as if those Liverpool sports who follow football will be grey-whiskered and bent with age before the Cup—which jeers and not exuberates- comes home. Worse teams than these which fluttered the colours last week end have, it is true, won matches at a much earlier stage in the competition, but in being thus removed on Saturday they have no other reason to advance than that they were not equal to the task in hand. No, the luck has been out this time round, and they and their neighbours on other side of Stanley Park will have to begin all over again. Having said so much on the one hand, let me extend the other to Sheffield United, and congratulate them heartily on once again reaching the last eight. Now that the only team which could have beaten them, to wit, Bury, have gone under, they may reckon themselves as good as any of the opposition remaining, and for neither virtuous Villain or Forester bold, nor eke the brightest stir in the Southern firmament need they entertain anything more than due respect. I daren’t say anything further in their favour, lest it should lead to their undoing. I have already picked in turn Blackburn Rovers and Bury to win this Cup, and both have played me false. Nowadays you only need to get the idea into your head that certain team will do this, that, and the other thing, and they throw you over at the first time asking. Stranger things have happened than that the “ Wolves ” and Middlesbro’ should be travelling up to the Christians’ palace this April.
ABOUT THE GAME
If I might be allowed to put in another chip of nautical metaphor, the United won on Saturday because they proved the better navigators. “Navvies" would fit the situation just as aptly. The top of the ground, which was so loose that it threatened to come off in places, afforded every opportunity for a fellow with figure-skating proclivities, and contortionist footballers were tickling the humour of the crowd every other minute. After describing all sorts of geometric designs on the soft carpet, down a player would come “splosh" on all fours without any assistance, and although the field was strictly impartial in its dirty behavior to the combatants, I suppose the excuse advanced by the beaten side would be that anything could happen under such circumstances. This, however, while a consoling reflection to some folks, will not diminish the force of the argument that Sheffield, as things went, played better football —stronger football, at any rate. Prior to the kick-off the visitors indulged in a few minutes’ target practice which must have had a wry intimidating influence on the local populace, for the former were scoring bulls’ eyes with nearly every shot. But this is precisely what they did not do when the serious conflict began, and on such occasions as the United backs allowed them to get on speaking terms with Foulke, the giant was no means sorely beset. He ought to have been placed in difficulties—should have been beaten in fact—but that is another matter.
HOW UNITED WON
Before anything was scored Taylor sent a ball begging across the goalmouth, and then Sharp failed to judge a not-over difficult ball at a favorable range and was remiss again. Mistakes not only prevented Everton from scoring themselves, but also contributed largely to the two goals by which they were beaten. It was thus wise: After half an hour the United had a free kick for offside, not far from midfield. Boyle, who had all along distinguished himself, placed the ball well to the right of the posts, and with Abbott and Eccles both failing to circumvent Bennett, that worthy found the best part of an open goal to go at, and accordingly captured it. Previously Eccles had evoked a hearty burst of cheering by chasing and pulling up Bennett and Field with one of the best bits of tackling ever seen on a ground. In the case of the second point Proudfoot and Settle were both dallying with the ball, with the result that Thickett crashed between the pair. Bennett got possession, and worked beautifully past Eccles, dribbled on, and though hampered again, got in his last stride and a beauty of a shot attached to it, with the result that, as before, Muir had not a chance. That effectually settled the issue, as although there were twenty-five minutes still to go Everton were a beaten team. Previously they had shown good fight, albeit a lot more faulty footwork than the state of the ground was responsible for. They had, at any rate, kept their followers in a state of expectancy, and, be it said, they came desperately near scoring, while their full backs were also permitted to hammer away at Foulke from long range. It was from a well-placed kick by Eccles that an opportunity stared at least two of the inside forwards in the face, but the only result was a gigantic scrimmage on the line, in which Foulke played the part of Horatio. A claim was indeed made that the ball had been through. Even if it had it would not have counted, for the referee had detected some breach of rules which was not quite clear at such a distance from the stand. Another time Sharp—one of the very few occasions when he outwitted Boyle—had a clear run, but to the dismay of his colleagues he slipped, and went land-measuring when in full cry for goal. This was indeed hard luck, and both these events it should be said occurred ere the United had made themselves tolerably sure of victory. Afterwards Everton, save for a few individual bursts, fell off, and the United, while not exerting themselves to the far end, were just as near scoring again. Further, they were carrying a passenger for the greater part of the concluding half, Field happening to meet with a collision which did him no good at all.
THE PLAYERS
For an hour there was not such a great disparity between the teams, although it must be said the United went about their work in a straighter fashion, and lasted sufficiently well to give a fine advertisement to the invigorating qualities of the air of Skegness. On such a day it was quite possible for a player do his level best and find his efforts come all awry, and one’s criticism need not accordingly be too pointed, although it has to be said that there were come conspicuous successes, just there were some noticeable failures. One the most prominent men on the winning side was Boyle, who also played a scrupulously fair game. Another was Bennett, who carried the Everton goal on the second occasion by sheer force of individual effort. It was one of the “Mexborough particulars,” and at times he is very great on them. When he rises to Saturday s form, and throws aside the mantle of the moody Dane, he is the most dangerous right-winger in the country. Thickett was in fine feather, and indeed the backs on both sides acquitted themselves with credit. Balmer kicking as stoutly as any, and Eccles frequently doing very clever work, though both goals came from his side. In the two intermediate lines Needham stood out, as he usually does when judgment above everything else is an essential. Johnson, playing better than have previously seen him this season, was every whit as good as Wolstenholme, though for the sake of consistency, not to mention immunity from injuries, the last named of the pair could not well be left out of the international trial match. Booth's one fauIt was that he was prone to finesse at times, and he lost good ground by so doing. Abbott was solid throughout; Morren occasionally wild, but as persevering as ever. Hedley pleased me very much, and he gets a chance to-day at London to show his paces before a critical crowd. So, too, does Proudfoot earn a mark of favour on the other side. But Sharp was disappointing, and the whole Everton line did not piece up as well as their opponents, who read the more dangerous when swinging along, and troubled the goalkeeper far oftener. On a dry patch the visitors would probably have given a different account of themselves. They didn’t perform badly, but they lost to a better team. I should add that the contest was fought with good feeling, and smart official rulings on the off-side business were another gratifying feature. When the free kick was signalled from which the United scored their first goal, it was very fine point, but the decision was undoubtedly correct. The teams were; Sheffield United; Foulke, goal; Thickett and Boyle, backs; Johnson, Morren, and Needham, half-backs; Bennett, Field, Hedley, Priest, and Lipsham, forwards. Everton; Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle, and Turner, forwards. Referee; Mr. A.G. Kingscott.
EVERTON REVIEW
February 25 1901. The Liverpool Mercury
At Bramell-lane, Everton had a farewell to the English cup for another season. In having to tackle the “Blades” on their own ground, the Everton team was admittedly set one of the most difficult tasks in the second round of the ties for it was quite evident that the United had, judging from their surprising victory at Sunderland, in the initial stages of the tournament, determined upon making amends in the struggle for the motional trophy for the numerous failures in the League campaign. These who witnessed them overthrow Everton-who, by the by, were supposed to posses more than an outside chance for final honours. Everton started the proceedings in the presence of fully 20 spectators, and straight away the two sides went at it in ding-dong style. Considering the conditions under which, the play progressed the pace was astonishing, the accuracy of passing was marvelous, and it was quite evident that better stammer would tell a tale in the final verdict. Either side could claim no advantage, though glorious chances were missed at both goals, and half an hour passed when the home side gained the first grip of the day's honours. The respective combatants had equally maintained the high pressure, when in taking a pass from the left wing, Proudfoot was adjudged offside, the Everton centre being then on the halfway line. Little danger was anticipated from the free kick, but Boyle placed the ball well down the field to the right wing, and in the rush for possession, Bennett managed to trap the leather, and with a superb oblique drive, which flashed into the net, hit with terrific forced, placed the first goal to the credit of his side. This was a staggered for the visitors, but they returned gamely to the attack, and Taylor sent across the goalmouth a tempting centre, which only required the least touch to furshish an equalising point-but no one could reach it, and the ball travelled harmlessly over the line. Thus at the interval the Blades held the advantage of a goal, and the second moiety was awaited with increased interest. In ten minutes Everton had failed to utilise two perfect openings, and inability to turn these to account cost them the game. The first came from the right wing, where Sharp, who had been practically a spectator in the first half, received a quick pass from Booth, and, getting the better of Boyle, had a clear run into the goalmouth, but unfortunately for his side, he sprawled full length on the surface when close in, and the opportunity vanished. A few minutes later came the second chance. From a free kick the ball was lifted over the Sheffield backs and Proudfoot, dashing up before Foulkes could reach it, tried for the net. The burly custodian touched the ball with outstretched arm, and fell, and after a tremendous scrimmage under the bar, the ball was seen to be thrown over the line, presumably by the custodian. Everton plodded on, but another disaster felled their inspiration. Eccles failed to tackle Bennett, who had received a long wide pass, and, though hampered by the Everton backs, managed to get in a hard, low shot, which Muir touched, but could not prevent from entering the coveted harbour. After this the United pressed, and spendid saves by Muir avoided a heavier defeat. It must be tandidly admitted that the Everton were beaten by a superior team, and that on the day's play the United would have overcome any operation they had been pitted against. The latter were smarter on the ball than their visitors, more determined in their movements, and when near goal more dangerous in their attempts to score. For the first 30 minutes for Everton fully held their own, but the forwards could do very little with the burly methods of their opponents, who were determined either to have the ball themselves or prevent their rivals from obtaining possession. The tactics adopted by the United defenders were just of the character to upset the more orderly movements of an opposition, and Everton were brushed unceremonsly aside-or floored, for preference-without the slightest compunction. The two teams also adopted precisely opposite methods of attacks; for whereas Everton indulged in the close passing, inside game, the United halves whipped out to their wingmen at every opportunity. The Everton front rank was not seen at its best, and the extreme wings were the least effective portion of the branch of the team. Boyle invariably got the better of Sharp, and Turner did not distinguish himself at the other extremity of the line. The United halves allowed them to latitude, and as the trio had them fairly well in hand throughout the afternoon it remained with the opposing halfbacks division to neutralise these movements, and also the deficiencies of their own attacking forces. Hence the Everton half back division had to bear the front of the struggle, and right manfully did they preform their part of the day's work. But those harassing methods in which they invariably indulge when each department is bearing the fair share of the work were conspicuously absent, for the sole reason aforementioned, and their best efforts were employed in defence. Each man played a capital game, but further behind the full backs were not as sound as usual, and both goals scored by the Blades would doubtless, under ordinary circumstances, have been easily prevented. The United, however, missed no chance, and in this particular they did excel. Muir gave a capital display in goal, but the second part scored against him seemed to present no particular difficulty though the ball came along the ground at a very acute angle. On the United side, the defence was impervious, Foulkes making one wonderful save, whilst the backs by their forcible tactics, broke up the Everton combination, and their accurate and powerful returns were always in evidence. The halves likewise, were stubborn, and required some beating. Needham giving a capital exhibition, though Morren was not one whit behind in ability, and Johnson was a rare worker. In the front rank the home side could claim a district advantage. The extreme wings were a most dangerous couple, and whenever Bennett go the ball there was danger lurking ahead, the old Mexborough player scoring both goals. But even this marked success did not appear to cause the right winger much satisfaction, judging from his countenances. Lipsham ran and centred splendidly in the earlier stages, but Wolstenholmes stuck to him well, and to a great extent destroyed the keenest of this part of the Blades attack. In being beaten, Everton have the satisfaction of knowing that they played a good game, one which, in the majority of cases, would have been sufficient to provident them with a victory. They were fully equal to the high pressure and rapid pace of the first half, and had they equaklised when the chances came, the result might easily have been reversed. The United proved stubborn and determined opponents, dashing in every movement, and of a granite-like nature in defence, qualities, which would have tested the best team in the country to the utmost. With everything depending upon the game, as in a Cup-tie tactics similar to those adopted by the Blades are almost guarantee of victory, and Everton were not clever enough to circumvent by deft footwork the vigous methods of their opponents. Hence their defeat.
SHEFFIELD UNITED v EVERTON
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Monday 25 February 1901
UNITED ENTER THE THIRD ROUND
It was generally conceded that of the eight ties in the second round of the Cup, that at Bramall Lane between the two teams above-mentioned was only exceeded for interest by that at Aston. A great crowd was consequently looked for, but, whilst there was a capital attendance considering the bad weather, the crowd did not reach expectations by a long way. There were altogether over 25,000 people present, the exact numbers paying being 24,629 and the receipts £923 11st 6d. the morning had been beautifully fine, but at 2 o’clock rain set in, and continued without intermission till the kick-off, reducing the ground to a terrible state, and making the chances of high-class football virtually out of the question. The Sheffielders returned from their training quarters during the morning reaching the ground only about an hour before the start of the game, whilst the Everton men arrived in equally good time, accompanied by a large crowd of their supporters, no fewer than six trains being run either on the Midland or the Great central line, and all being well filled. The visitors had the team which had been announced and which was thoroughly representative of the best strength of the club, whilst, with the exception that Johnson resumed his place in the half-back line, United had the same side as had beaten Sunderland in the first round. It was only decided just before the game to play Field as partner to Bennett, instead of Almond. Needham won the toss, and decided to kick towards Shoreham Street, though there was no wind to influence play and the rain had ceased. The early movements were favourable to the visitors, whose right wing showed pretty passing, but soon Boyle relieved, and Needham set Lipsham going, the winger planting the ball beautifully across the goalmouth. The first corner came to United, forced by Bennett and then, after Lipsham had again screwed well in, the home forwards swept in almost irresistibly. Time after time it looked certain that Muir would be beaten, but the many shots either cannoned out or were well repelled. An advance to the other end was not fruitful, good work by Thickett, who was playing very stoutly, bringing about their retreat. Two successive corner kicks to the home team were well placed, and from the latter Hedley headed quite into Muir’s hands from close in front. A lot of rather uninteresting play followed, both sides claiming corners, from which nothing resulted; and then, as the outcome of a very dainty bit of work by Needham, his left wing got going. Hedley, however, was not well placed at the end, and next came a succession of smart and dangerous advances by the Everton wings, the left being the more dangerous, for Boyle palpably had Sharp helpless. Taylor once swung the ball finely across goal, but the ball went into touch, whilst at last Sharp got his chances only to screw the ball too square and foul against his partner drove the visitors back. The free kick was beautifully placed by Boyle, and, reaching Bennett, who was standing close to the goal line, the winger drove it in, and scored a wonderfully fine goal, with little more than the breadth of the ball to shoot at. This success was greeted with a perfect hurricane of cheering, and so fine a shot deserved its reception. A clever clearance by Foulkes from a high shot by Settle came next, and then for a while the Everton work fell off the goal against them having told its inevitable tale. Just on the interval a bit of Priest’s best work saw him whip the ball finely across to Bennett, whose return centre was perfect. Muir having to clear close to the post, and at half-time the score stood;- Sheffield United 1, goal; Everton no goal.
In the second half very quickly United pressed but Field was accidentally kicked on the groin by Booth as the last-named was clearing, and he had to leave the field for some minutes, being afterwards of little use. A surprise shot bytaylor brought out Foulkes in a hurry on the game being resumed, whilst Wolstenholme made a very moderate attempt on the slippery ground when he had a fine opening, following a free kick against Thickett. Immediately afterwards, with United short-handed they were driven back on their own lines, and Foulkes had only just time to fall prostrate over the ball as half a dozen of his opponents reached him, and a terrific melee ensued. It ended in favour of the big man, who managed to sweep the ball out amid veryu hearty cheering; and at once received a free kick in his favour, having been impeded. Afterwards United again removed the sphere of action, and Hedley got in a beauty, which Muir was fortunate to save under the bar, whilst Lipsham and Priest did a lot of smart passing, and more than once threatened the Everton goal. With Field’s re-appearance, he promptly passed the ball along the line to Bennett, who, availing himself of a slip by Eccles, went straight for Muir. Close on goal he was tackled, and unfairly tackled, by Booth, but beat him, scoring a particularly fine second goal with a shot which gave Muir no chance whatever. This practically decided the issue of the match, though for a little time longer Everton strove hard, Settle bringing Foulkes to his knees with a beautiful long-range shot. Then the visitors’ bolt was shot, and from this to the end United had a great deal of their own way, making a number of dashing and capital runs along both wings. Muir was kept very hard-worked for most of the remaining time, and once when he had just pushed out a lovely long shot from Morren, Bennett, taking the rebound, gave his fellow forwards a rare chance of a third goal had they been up. However, they were not, and the goal escaped, time soon afterwards being called with United victorious in handsome fashion. Result;- Sheffield United 2 Everton 0
Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (Captain), and Turner, forwards.
Sheffield United;- Foulkes, goal; Thickett and Boyle, backs; Johnson, Morren, and Needham (Captain), half-backs; Bennett, Field, Hedley, Priest, and Lipsham, forwards.
ASSOCIATION ENGLISH CUP-SECOND ROUND
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 25 February 1901
EVERTON v. SHEFFIELD UNITED
Under ordinary circumstances the holding capacity of the United enclosure would have bene severely taxed, but the inclement conditions somewhat damped the ardour of intending early arrivals. Nevertheless, half an hour prior to the start there was a large attendance, and before a commencement was made almost every point of vantage was occupied by eager enthusiasts, who whiled away the tedium by discussing the chances of their respective favourites. The blue and white colours of the Evertonians were very conspicuous in the breast of a large contingent, and it was quite evident that the visitors did not lack a numerous following. Eight minutes from the time announced for hostilities to commence Settle led his men on to the field, and they were immediately followed by the Blades each team being vociferously received. When the rival captains advanced to toss for choice of positions there were fully 25,000 spectators present. Settle lost the toss, and United defended Bramall-lane goal, there being little or no wind, whilst the rain had considerably abated. Proudfoot started the game, and it at once became evident that neither side was going to give anything away. Everton got away beautifully along the slippery turf, Proudfoot and Settle working splendidly together, but the wretched turf was twice responsible for Turner failing to reach the sphere before it rolled outside. After a spell of midfield work, Morren passed, finely out to Lipsham, who got in a magnificent centre, which, however, went about a yard wide. Tricky work between Taylor and Sharp and a judicious move on the part of Proudfoot and Settle found Turner in possession, but he was badly hampered by Thickett, and consequently his shot failed to take effect. From the goal kick United dashed away, Bennett forcing a corner off Eccles and from the kick the Everton goal was subjected to a somewhat severe bombardment, priest ultimately shooting wide. United were undoubtedly adapting themselves much better to the prevailing circumstances than were the Evertonians. During the next five minutes the Blades kept up a hot fusillade on Muir’s citadel. Bennett, Priest, and Hedley each made fine attempts, from the latter of which Balmer effected a most wonderful clearance. The pressure was kept up for some moments, Mooren making a fine overhead kick, which Muir kept out in brilliant fashion, Johnson ultimately bringing the pressure to a close by shooting high over the bar. By way of a change, Everton assumed the aggressive, grand work by Wolstenholme giving Proudfoot a fine opening. He, however, preferred to give Sharp a chance, but the latter failed to elude the watchful vigilance of Boyle. A fine rush by the home vanguard was excellently checked by Booth, after Wolstenholme had failed to bring Lipsham to bay. Balmer conceded a corner, this being negotiated at the expense of and similar advantage to the Cutlers. On this occasion Lipsham placed the ball right in the teeth of the Everton goal. Hedley heading in, and Muir bringing off a wonderful save. The game was of a typical cup tie order, and this, coupled with the terrible state of the turf, was naturally responsible for many mistakes on both sides. Once or twice Everton tried the short passing game, but their efforts in this respect were rudely upset by the keenness of the Blades’ defence. Suddenly a change came over the scene, Muir weakly clearing too near his own line. The throw in enabled the United to put on pressure, and after the ball had once been kept out Bennett obtained possession, and with a fine oblique shot he beat the Everton custodian, this coming after half an hour’s play. The Blues were by no means disconcerted at this reverse, and made straight for the goal from the centre. Turner putting in a very hot one to Foulke, who saved in his usual style. The pace was being kept up wonderfully well, and neither side flagged in their strenuous attempts to do their best. The heavy turf, however, was beginning to tell its inevitable tale on one or two of the men. Wolstenholme led another attack on the home citadel, and though a little later he put in a good shot, Foulke easily cleared. The next to be conspicuous were Taylor and Turner, the latter grandly eluding all opposition, but he shot wide. As the interval drew near, United reassured themselves, and after several attempts had failed, Bennett put in a beauty, which failed to take effect. Half-time;- Sheffield United 1 goal, Everton nil.
Immediately on resuming United made tracks for Muir’s end, but a free kick to Everton found the Blues hotly assailing the Sheffield custodian. Taylor, Settle, Abbott, and Booth each made praiseworthy efforts to lower the home colours. Play was somewhat slower than in the first moiety, though at this stage Everton more than held their own. From one hot bombardment there was a tremendous scrimmage close on Foulke’s goal-line and while the burly custodian was struggling to clear several of the Everton men vainly tried to force the ball into the net. Ultimately the Cutlers’ keeper released himself and threw clear, half of the Everton team wildly claiming for a goal on the ground that the ball had crossed the line. Mr. Kingscott, however, decided against a point. As the game progressed it became evident that the United were wearing their opponents down, the heavy ground appearing to distress several of the Everton players. A miskick by Eccles let in Bennett, who dashed down in magnificent style and scored a second goal. After this the home team continued to have matters almost all their own way. The Everton forwards, it is true, got down once or twice, but their shooting lacked fire. As the end drew near the visitors put on an extra spurt, and were at least twice within an ace of scoring. The United defence, however, declined to be beaten, and undoubtedly deserved their victory. Result; Sheffield United 2 goals, Everton nil. Teams;-
Everton;- Muir, goal; Balmer and Eccles, backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Proudfoot, Settle (Captain) , and Turner, forwards.
Sheffield United;- Foulkes, goal; Thickett and Boyle, backs; Johnson, Morren, and Needham (Captain), half-backs; Bennett, Field, Hedley, Priest, and Lipsham, forwards.
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Everton 3 goals, Bury 1 goal.
THE CUP-TIE AT SHEFFIELD
The Liverpool Daily Post- Tuesday, February 26, 1901
Everton’s Cup tie on Saturday created immense interest in Liverpool. The Everton official excursions, arranged by their agents, C.W. Bullock, and Co., per the Great Central Railway, were densely crowded. Over 350 passengers left by the 8.40; the 11.20 had six private saloons and so great was the rush that although every compartment was overcrowded hundreds were left behind, and a relief special left at 11.42 equally packed. The 12.15 special was also well filled. In all about 1,600 passengers left by the Midland and Great Central trains, of which the Great Central carried over 1.300.
SHEFFIELD UNITED’S GREAT VICTORY OVER EVERTON
Football Chat and Athletic World- Wednesday 27 February 1901
By Vulcanus
To run into the third round of the Cup ties after meeting Sunderland and Everton is something which few gave Sheffield United the credit of being able to accomplish. The League table does not reflect any glorious rays around the name of the Bramall Lane team at the present moment, nut with little of glory to be gained in that direction, the Red and White is anxious to place its ribbons on the National Trophy once more. And like “Ajax” always brave, but more so when he’s mad!” United have gone full tilt at the foe, with results joyful to their followers! The disappointments of the League, many as they are, sink into oblivion, and “t’ Cup” is the prize for future pursuit. Third round, semi-final, and final have yet to be negotiated ere that happy state of possession is reached. Only three games, yet to seven of the present eight competitors they will prove too many. It was not until the last hour immediately previous to the kick-off that the united Committee decided on the exact composition of the team. Priest had played such a good game at Sunderland as partner to Lipsham that the left wing was practically settled early in the week, but for the right wing choice lay between Almond and Field to assist Bennett, Hedley filling the centre position. The final decision was in favour of Field, and was, I think, a popular one with the crowd, for the ex-Brentford youth has proved himself one of the class men of the United front line, although everyone was sorry to see Almond left out in such a match. Johnson was in his old position at half-back, so that in this one respect only did the team differ from that which ahd done duty at Sunderland. Everton depended on their Southampton eleven, and could, therefore, be called fully representative of their organisation. Sheffield United had done a eek’s training at Skegness, with good effect as was soon proved. The spin of the cain gave favour to Needham, and he selected the Bramall Lane goal for his lease. The rain ceased as the teams lined up, but the conditions under foot were terribly trying. The first feature of the game was a fine run and square=centre by Lipsham, who had received the ball from a neat pass by Needham. The Everton forwards then got away and the ball was allowed to skim under the feet of three men ere Turner essayed a shot, only, however, to see the ball go madly wide. Play thus early showed every indication of speed, the pace forced by both sides. Bennett by good work, compelled a corner and Johnson finished be sending wide. After this Lipsham repeated his former effort, and Muir and his colleagues had a warm spell of defence, Field ending the raid by sending above the bar with a fine overhead shot. United were playing a fine game, and for once the Everton forwards troubled the Sheffield defence the home men were half-a-dozen times in imminent danger of scoring. Proudfoot tried a couple of long shots at Foulkes, but the mighty one was not to be deluded by that system of operations. At the other end Bennett had been ensuing trouble for some time, and when Boyle sent the ball, from a free kick on the half-way line, into goal-mouth, the ex-Moxbro man hesitated not, but banged into the Everton me with a farce which sent the ball whistling past Muir’s face, and gave United the first point of the day. This was after thirty-two minutes’ play, and save that Settle called upon Foulkes to deal with a splendid high shot most of the subsequent work took place in the Everton half of the field up to the interval. A lead of one goal was, under ordinary circumstances, little to be elated over, yet to pronounced in every department had United’s superiority been that there was little doubt as to the ultimate winners when the second half was entered upon. The Liverpool team showed no signs of awakening, whilst the home lot pegged away in the same refreshing style of the first moiety. Bennett was conspicuous amongst a lot of determined forwards, and even with his partner, Field, lame and once off the ground for a spell, the United outside-right stuck to Abbott and Eccles in a fashion which proved dreadfully annoying for the latter couple. It was a magnificent individual effort on the part of Bennett which gave United their second point. Field had made a clean pass, and Bennett sprinted away, finishing with a shot which caused the ball to rebound into the net from the far goal post. But sixteen minutes of the second half had gone when Bennett had thus roused the Sheffield portion of the crowd to a demonstration of joy, yet never once during the remaining minutes did Everton look capable of reducing the 2 goals’ lead. On the other hand, United continually threatened to add to their total, and had they done so it would not have been more than their merit on the day’s play. Eccles, Balmer, and Muir were working like Trojans, but the halves and forwards fell disappointingly to pieces when they, in response to the cry of the trippers, attempted a raid on the opposing lines. Play naturally slackened down towards the finish, the heavy ground telling its tale on the two teams, but, except that the result was almost a certainly for sixty of the ninety minutes of the game, the interest was maintained right up to the end. To compare the play of United with anything shown by the team on previous occasions this season would be impossible. From the kick-off right away to the finish they played with a determination which would, if-note the “if” -maintained, almost certainly bring the Cup to its resting place of two seasons ago. The result of 2 goals to nil scarcely shows the wide difference in the play of the two teams on Saturday, and never did a team fall so short of expectations as Everton on that day. Everybody had anticipated a fine game by the visitors, and doubt as to victory for our aide was freely expressed during the week, and especially on Saturday when rain began to fall, soddening the ground unit it became a quagmire. United were calculated to fail under such a state of affairs, yet it was demonstrated that they were the team to adapt themselves to the ruling conditions. So well did the whole of the United team play that it is almost impossible to pick out any for special mention. Yet one cannot refrain from praise of Ernest Needham, who throughout played a remarkable game and was the “star” of the whole twenty-two, or of Bennett, who had, in addition to doing a great amount of work at outside-right the honour of scoring both goals. Not did these goals come in any haphazard or lucky style, both were secured with magnificent shots, the first by a lightning stroke, “such as I need to get most of my goals at Mexbro” Walter said after the match, and the second by a well-executed piece of work when under unfair attention from one of the Everton defenders. All the team shared in the success of the day, but to Needham and Bennett is more than common praise due. Whilst Muir, Eccles, and Balmer did their work ell enough, the rest of the Everton team must have been sadly disappointing to the crowd of supporters who journeyed over from Liverpool confident of the satisfactory outcome of the game. The half-backs started off in good enough style, and Booth early on looked certain to cause no end of trouble to the home forwards, but as time went by the string wore off, and not only did the whole trio fail to stop the rushes of the Sheffielders but, furthermore, made miserable attempts to feed their own forwards. The latter, however, did so little even when the opportunity was presented that nothing. Perhaps happened on that account, and collectively the Evertonians may be designated as a failure. The feelings of the Everton Committee may be salved, however, with the fact that they share in the record gate for a cup-tie in Sheffield. Twelve months ago United and Wednesday divided £889 between them for the game at Bramall Lane, but Saturday’s gate beat that by reaching £923 11s 6d. this represents 24,629 as paying for admission a rare crowd, considering the adverse meteorological conditions just prior to the kick-off. Of course, it fails to compare with the £1,789 at Villa Park, but, nevertheless, it proves that in Sheffield, as elsewhere, football, far from being a declining power, has not yet by any means, reached the climax.
LIVERPOOL CHAT
Football Chat and Athletic World- Wednesday February 27, 1901
By “Mersey Mentor”
There was never a city plagued with two such inconsistent football clubs as we are. Liverpool go to Bolton and lose to the Wanderers; next week they travel North, met the Wearsiders on their own midden, and win a victory such as earlier in the season might have had an effect upon the League Championship. Then Everton travel to Southampton, and revenge their Cup-tie defeat in brilliant style; but in the next round at Bramall Lane, they allow a team like Sheffield United to climb all over them, and utterly blast our hopes of the Cup final.
All through the game at Sheffield our lot were the poorer side, only Balmer and Eccles doing anything brilliant. We had expected Settle’s little lot to make things hum after the way they trounced Manchester City; but all their international form vanished in the face of a trio of vigorous half-backs. On the other hand our halves were right off, Wolstenholme, in particular, quite failing to hold Bennett, who scored both goals. When Everton should collapse in this way puzzles everybody. The men were all in perfect physical; conditions, and we can only imagine that Cup-tie funk which has been so great a hindrance to them in past years was again at work.
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION
Cheshire Daily Echo - Thursday 28 February 1901
STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVE v EVERTON RESERVE -At Green-Lane.
County Reserve team; Butler, goal; Freeborough, and Chorlton, full-backs; Potts, Bentley, and Brooks, half-backs; Sharply, Parrott, Watson, Jack Foster, and McLachlan, forwards.
Everton Reserve team; Kitchen, goal; Turner, and Crelly, full-backs; Blythe, Green, and Boyle, half-backs; Taylor, Sharp, Settle, Roach, and Chadwick, forwards.