WASTED CHANCES
April 4, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Res 1, Aston Villa Res 2
Everton certainly have themselves to blame for losing both points in this Central League game at Goodison Park yesterday. It was due to erratic shooting when gilt-edged chances came their way. It was only late in the second half that Villa came into their own –Lynn scoring both their goals. Gibson scored for Everton.

EASTER EGLINGTON WITH A DOUBLE’ STARTED THE EVERTON ROAR
April 4, 1953. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton 2, Plymouth nil
By Stork
A most interesting first half, both sides playing nice football but Everton getting the goal. The second session not quite so good, but here again it was Everton who scored, Eglington getting both their goals. Weak finishing by Plymouth ruled them out as potenential winners. Everton; O’Neill, goal; Donovan and Lindsay, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Cummins, and Eglington, forwards. Plymouth Argyle;- Shortt, goal; Smith and Jones (P.J.) backs; Chishom, Dougall, and Porteous, half-backs; Davies, McCrory, Tadman, Ashall and Govan, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.B. Jackson, of Watford. Everton made a particularly bright start, and if Fielding had not go under a Hickson centre Everton might have taken a goal in half a minute, but near misses are of no concern for Plymouth might also have had a goal immediately after wards. They had worked out an admirable opportunity for themselves but a little hesitancy when they got to striking distance ruined their chances. Danger was still hovering about the Everton goal, but tension was eased when Davies from a good position headed wide. These two “live” incidents soon had the crowd shouting, and they let themselves go again when Buckle after beating P. Jones put the ball into the goalmouth for Hickson to head it on to Eglington. The Irish winger decided to have a shot, but he did not make the right contact with the ball so that Shortt was not called upon.
Plenty Of Incidents
There were plenty of incidents in this game with many of them taking place in front of the respective goals but the Argyle nearly put themselves in arrears when Porteous almost shot through his own goal. The margin between success and failure could not have been more than half a yard. Donovan was making splendid use of the ball and he was responsible for starting off one movement which was really a joy to watch the only fault being that it did not bring the success anticipated. The final act was played by Buckle, whose centre was nicely placed for Hickson, who however lost his foothold just as he was about to rise to make a header. The Everton leader had previously beaten the bearded Chisholm in the air but the ball passed outside. Everton were pulling out some lovely combination. Tadman often went out on the wing to get away from Jones and from the wing he was able to send across a couple of centres which looked dangerous, but petered out.
Hickson Injured
Hickson suffered two nasty falls and he seemed to have hurt his back a little judging by the way he rubbed it, but it takes a steamroller to curb his enthusiasm. McCrory was at it again, and this time it took a superlative save on the part of O’Neill to prevent the ball landing in the net. It was a fine piece of anticipation by the Everton goalkeeper and well worthy of the reception he received. It was immediately after this that Everton took the lead. A ball by Cummins seemed to be in the safe keeping of full back Smith but the latter rather surprisingly miskicked so Eglington stepped in with that trusty left foot of his so that the ball went crashing up against one upright, travelled along the goal line, hit the other post and passed to the back of the net, at the 19th minute. The pilgrims did not lay down under this blow, in fact they hit back mighty hard, and two rasping shots by Dougall and Davies went either outside the post or over the top.
Darting Raids
The Argyle forwards made ground very quickly, and from one of their darting raids, Donovan conceded a corner, but O’Neill made a very confident catch from Govan’s flag kick. Everton also won a corner in the next minute and Buckle’s centre seemed to be labeled goal, for Hickson seemed to have taken up a perfect position but he missed making contact with the ball by a matter of inches, much to the disappointment of the Everton supporters. Buckle headed over from a corner and later put the ball into the net, but well after the whistle had gone. At this point Everton were testing the Argyle defence pretty severely and a canny move by Buckle enabled Hickson to get in the shot of the match and if the former Chester goalkeeper Shortt had not been on top form, that ball would have been in the net. Hickson hit it with all his might but Shortt got his knuckles to the ball in a convincing way. The crowd cheered both shooter and saver, both were entitled to it.
Hickson Impressive
The Plymouth left wing was very dangerous in a quiet sort of way, and when Govan got the better of Donovan his centre required perfect treatment by O’Neill who seemed to creep along his goal line and then sweep the ball away. The next time the Argyle came down they produced a corner from which McCrory headed outside. Eglington tried a shot while on the turn, but was wide of the mark and Leyland had to make a save from a long ball from Dougall. Donovan after making a forward pass to Fielding was injured, but play went on until Fielding, who was on the fringe of a goal, was beaten by Chisholm. Practically the last incident of the half was an impressive effort by Hickson, the ball passing over the bar. Half-time; Everton 1, Plymouth Argyle nil.
The first incident in this half was when Everton were involved in an offside decision after which Plymouth made several advances without causing any great worry to the Everton defence. Astall tried tried a surprise shot which passed well over the bar, and from a corner which followed on almost immediately afterwards, Leyland missed the centre but was covered by his colleagues.
Fielding’s Shot
Another corner came Plymouth’s way, but that also was safely disposed of. O’Neill came rushing out to catch a ball which eluded him, but he got back in time to catch a lob effort by McCrory. Hickson tried to bore his way through the Plymouth defence without success. So far this half had lost the charm of the first 45, but the first big thrill was a shot by Fielding which crashed into the side netting. Twice Hickson made headers out to Eglington and from one of them goalkeeper Shortt dropped the ball, but Smith was standing alongside him ready to hold off the challenge by Hickson. O’Neill had to go down rather low to effect a header by Tadman, who followed up and bumped into the Everton goalkeeper, and the result was a free kick to the Blues. Jones was doing fine work for Everton, and it was he who got in the way of Tadman shot. A free kick to the Argyle for a foul on McCrory by Fielding saw Chisholm put the ball into the Everton goalmouth, but Farrell and Jones linked up to save the situation.
Careless Kicking
The trouble was not cleared there for O’Neill had to save a header by Govan,. Much of the art and craft had gone out of the game, and in its place a lot of careless kicking. Fielding and Eglington made way for a dangerous attack on the Plymouth, but Shortt was as sharp as a needle when dealing with Hickson’s header, a short-range affair which was travelling at high speed, yet Shortt was able to pluck it out of the air like greased lighting. An overhead pass by Cummins eventually found its way to Fielding on the left wing. Fielding centre was a beauty and Eglington headed the ball well clear of goalkeeper Shortt at the 70th minute. It was a beautiful header, which would have beaten 99 goalkeepers out of 100. It certainly left Shortt stone-cold. Eglington came very near to chalking up his third goal but Shortt prevented this with a smart save. The next time Eglington got a chance, an even better one, but he put the ball tamely to Shortt’s hands low down.
O’Neill In Action
O’Neill made two quick punch-away clearances from which the ball was speedily taken into Plymouth quarters, but the action came to an end when Buckle shot wide. With five minutes to go Hickson was offered a great chance to score, but he shot wildly and widely. Final; Everton 2, Plymouth Argyle nil. Official attendance 38,794.

CHESTERFIELD RES V EVERTON RES
April 4, 1953. The Liverpool Football Echo
Chesterfield Res;- Burn, goal; Floskett and Sears, backs; Harrison, Leivers and Hutchinson, half-backs; Showier, Southall, Marsden, Langland and Caton, forwards. Everton Res;- Leyland, goal; Moore and Anderton, backs; Grant, Forshaw, and Melville, half-backs; McNamara, Thomas, Lewis, Farrell, and Easthope, forwards, Referee; Mr. R. Ryalls, Sheffield. Although Chesterfield Reserves had most of the play during the first half their game with Everton reserves at Chesterfield this afternoon the visitors’ defensive tactics and some sound play by goalkeeper Leyland kept the home team out. Everton were usually on the defensive, but inside right Thomas worked hard to supply his fellow forwards with passes that sometimes looked dangerous. Half-time;- Chesterfield Reserves nil, Everton Reserves nil.

DEBT TO WALLY FIELDING
April 6, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 2, Plymouth Argyle 0
By Leslie Edwards
This was a match which left people wondering how that Manchester semi-final would have gone if Wally Fielding had been on the business side of the touch line that disastrous day. For Fielding showed zest, a touch of speed and infinite artistry and he shot with the confident. Abandon of one who knows thayt neither relegation nor promotion can come Everton’s way this season. True, he did not score he scored heavily in putting us in his debt for being responsible for most of the many Everton attacks. The few odd moments of dullness of the game came when sides tended to make top lateral progress. There were (one nearly added of course) times when warning action got a little out of hand, but fortunately tempers became more and more equable when the reverse seemed the more probable. The Easter Eglington scored both goals (foot first then head) and both crossed the line after contact with a post. The shot was an excellent one bearing unexpectedness, direction and pace the header after a glorious “help course” centre by Fielding, so angled that the massive Welsh international Shortt had not the ghost of a chance. Short is a man worth a special niche. Stout to the extent of being a most ponty he showed astounding skill to reach a Hickson shot for the chance of which Buckle worked assiduously. Once or twice in a season a fine move, a wonderful shot and as equally good save “being down the house” This was one of them. For effortless dead ball kicking Shortt is supreme too, though the thigh of his kicking leg needed a support. Never since Warney Cresswell played on the same Park have I seen anyone get such consistent length with so little effort. O’Neill too had his moments, though visitors would find it hard to recognize him for two reasons. First owing to Plymouth playing in green he had to go into red, second the loudspeaker made no mention of the programme change from Leyland. In the first half particularly, the game was excellent, may be Plymouth’s gradual finding was due to the fact that they had played on Friday and to the fact that they appeared to get the raw side of some decisions. McCrory played well, and Tadman once he went to the wings to elude Tom Jones (another splendid and sporting display) seemed to have too many tricks for the defence. Everton’s work was not wholly satisfying. Their attack, for instance, did not always function as a fivesome and Hickson and Cummins were less successful than usual. Lindsay who never did anything without putting though into it and Lello whose work is consistent and of high standard joining Fielding and Jones as units most responsible for a well deserved victory.
After-Match Episode
The episode of the boy autoguph hunter and the Poice inspector after the final whistle was another example of the potential danger if people encroaching on the field. The boy had dropped his autograph book and was determined not to leave the field without it. The inspector was equally determined. The boy’s dodging and the inspectator’s refuse to be “feinted” but of position was pure comedy but the crowd which had stayed on seemed ready for any thing if less than justice had been done. Finally the lad was escorted over the surrounding wall and when a St. John Ambulance man did yet another good deed and “an over to him with the precious book of signatures we could all go home happy. Everton will face an unchanged Huddersfield at Goodison this afternoon, Wheeler, Stanforth, Kelly, McGarry, McEvoy, Quested, Gunn, Glazzard, Shiner, Cavavagh, Metcalfe.
Donovan of Everton, who was injured in the match against Plymouth is unfit. Tom Clinton has a fitness test at the ground this morning. Tansy is fit if required.

CENTRAL LEAGUE
April 6, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Chesterfield Res 1, Everton Res 1
It was a pity that Everton inside right Thomas did not have more support in the game at Chesterfield. The best schemer on the field Thomas strove hard to originate attacking moves, but his constructive passes were invariably wasted. The Everton defence was hard pressed throughout but goalkeeper Leyland and backs, Moore and Anderton came through with credit. Chesterfield scorer was Marsden, Everton equalized.

WORTHY WINNERs
April 4, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
It is queer how so many games which start with such promise peter out long before the final whistle I have seen quite a lot this season. Plymouth may have been suffering from a little leg weariness against Everton at Goodison Park, for they had played a hard game the day previous but Everton should not have followed their footsteps for they came into the game fresh and well. If the second half had been anything like the first this game would have been voted one of the most attractive seen at the ground for some time, but it didn’t for there were too many dull moments, why the football was exceedingly moderate with little rhythm and endeavour. I think I can safety say that Everton introduced the more brilliant approach work, which, however, fell down so often in the penalty area. There were some chances, which just screamed out to be taken. Hickson once had an open goal before him, but misfired and Davies, the Plymouth winger, must have wondered how he came to put a header across the goal instead of into it. True, all these things help make the game attractive, but no one ever like to see chances missed, particularly the home crowd. Eglington’s first goal was due to a defensive slip by Smith, who miskicked an easy ball and Eglington stepped in to crack the ball against the post, it rebounded on to the other post before finally settling in the back of the net.
Magnificent Saves
Eglington’s second goal I rated highly, for the Irishman guilded his header to a point that was well out of the reach of Shortt, who could do nothing but watch the ball drop into the net. There were many easier chances to have scored by both teams, but Shortt and O’Neill were responsible for two not finding the net. Both magnificent saves. Higson pulled his heart out but found the beared Chisholm as solid as he looked. Tadman found Tom Jones just as solid in a different way, so much so that he left the middle as often as he would. Astall was Plymouth’s best shooter, but they were not punishing enough, nor were Everton. I was greatly impressed by Donovan who used the ball exceedingly well due, no doubt to his experiences as a half-back. He pulled out some joyful tricks to beat his man and they did not go unnoticed by the crowd. Buckle had a good first half and “made” many openings which were not taken up. Fielding was the key point, for Cummins was not on his game. There was plenty of skill in the Plymouth side, but it was no used to the best effects or came tumbling down on reaching the Everton defence, in which Jones was peerless, taking no risk and always endeavoring to be first to the ball. Everton were worthy winners but will find Huddersfield a vastly different proposition today. There must be no slackening off this afternoon for the Town are promotion bound.

2 BUCKLE GOALS CHECK TOWN PROMOTION BID
April 6, 1953. The Yorkshire Evening Post
Huddersfield Town slipped in the Second Division promotion race by losing at Everton today. Two Buckle goals- one from a penalty –wiped out a Lindsay own goal which gave Town the lead after 13 minutes. Everton; O’Neill, goal; Tansey and Lindsay, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Cummins, and Eglington, forwards. Huddersfield Town;- Wheeler, goal; Staniforth and Kelly, backs; McGarry, McEvoy, and Quested, half-backs; Gunn, Glazzard, Shiner, Cavanagh, and Metcalfe, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. Cowan (Manchester).
Everton had a 19-year-old local Jimmy Tansey making his home Football League debut in place of Donovan, who was hurt on Saturday. Everton set the pace and with luck, might have taken the lead early on as after Huddersfield had a fruitless corner Lello sent Cummins through. With the defence hesitating Cummins shot for the far side of the goal, Wheeler parrying the ball and then thwarting the in-running Hickson. After a brief visit by Town in which McEvoy opened out the play excellently, Town came again to take the lead. Metcalfe came inside to drive goalwards, and Lindsay, in attempting to clear, placed the ball into his own. This success came in 13 minutes.
Shiner’s Touches
Shiner showed neat touches and after he had gone close with a fierce drive Lello put a Eglington in possession. The winger beat Staniforth and then slipped the ball to Hickson who in turn gave to Fielding, but the latter shot tamely over. There was no denying that Huddersfield were proving troublesome, and it was only a grand save by O’Neill that prevented Shiner from increasing the Town lead. The goalkeeper however was lucky a moment later, when Quested pushed the ball through and O’Neill dashed out, missed the ball and was lucky to find it go behind and not into the net. Cummins was finding the ball running badly for him but Town did not make the most of their openings. Then Eglington sent Buckle away to level the scorers in 31 minutes against the run of the play. Wheeler had beaten down a fierce drive by Fielding out he was unlucky to find the ball go straight to Buckle who had the ball in the net before Wheeler could recover. Everton having got on terms proceeded to serve up quite interesting football, but Staniforth and Kelly defended stoutly. When Metcalfe broke away it was good work by Tansey that saved the day.
Half-time; Everton 1, Huddersfield Town 1.
Shiner and Glazzard combined cleverly, and when the centre-forward shot O’Neill pulled the ball down smartly under the bar. McEvoy and Quested were holding the Everton attack and so far little had been seen of Hickson. After the referee had a word with McGarry for bring down Cummins, Fielding sent Buckle through only to find Wheeler anticipate the move and leave his goal to drive on the ball. Wheeler was knocked out but he soon recovered, Lindsay had recovered from his first half lapse and a fine tackle by the full back stopped Huddersfield from going into the lead.
Terrific Shot
After Hickson had driven a terrific shot close, Town put in another burst, and the Everton defence was lucky to escape. Metcalfe lob into the goalmouth saw O’Neill leave his goal, but before he could get to the ball Glazzard was there and his header curled beyond the far post. Huddersfield at this point were very persistent in attack, and it was only the steady Everton defence that kept them out. After 75 minutes Staniforth handled and Buckle scored with the penalty kick. Result;- Everton 2, Huddersfield Town 1.

EVERTON’S HAPPIEST EASTER WAS COMPLETED BY BUCKLE’S TWO
April 6, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Everton 2, Huddersfield 1
By Stork
Everton earned a hard won victory over the promotion seeking Huddersfield. They had to battle strongly for their success for Huddersfield at times looked what they are, top of the table side. Buckle scored both Everton’s goals, Lindsay helping into his own goal a Metcalfe shot. Everton; O’Neill, goal; Tansey and Lindsay, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Cummins, and Eglington, forwards. Huddersfield Town;- Wheeler, goal; Staniforth and Kelly, backs; McGarry, McEvoy, and Quested, half-backs; Gunn, Glazzard, Shiner, Cavanagh, and Metcalfe, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. Cowan (Manchester). It was another glorious afternoon, although there was a trace of wind. Clinton apparently failed to pass hit fitness test this morning, so that the Everton team showed one change from Saturday. Tansey came in at right back for Donovan whose injury is making rapid progress. This was Tansey’s second first team appearance, his previous outing being against Notts County. There was another big crowd and with conditions as they were a tip top game was anticipated, particularly as Huddersfield are promotion-bound, and could not afford to drop any points if they are to keep in touch with Sheffield United. Huddersfield played the same team as accounted for Leicester City on Saturday. Everton were soon into their stride, and thanks to their right wing, they had the Huddersfield defence in an anxious frame of mind when Hickson, from a throw-in, hooked the ball into the goalmouth. Cummins seemed to have a reasonable chance of a shot, but he preferred to offer the chance to Lello. His shot was on the mark, but without the necessary sting to cause Wheeler any heartburn.
Eglington Forward
The overnight rain had put a greasy top on the playing pitch, so that we saw several slips by men on both sides. Huddersfield were not long in making their reply to Everton advances but they allowed the ball to run out of play as O’Neill kept careful watch on the skidding ball. Gunn forced Lello to concede a corner but this was speedily dealt with. Buckle made a cross-field pass to Eglington which had every appearance of causing trouble, but the Huddersfield defence survived without, however, entirely clearing the danger, for the Everton left wing, particularly Eglington, tried to open a way for Cummins.
Cummins Swing
Cummins did once swing the ball into the Town goal but that was as far as it got, at least for the time being. Before long the Huddersfield defence was prised open, and Cummins was left with a reasonable scoring opportunity, but he shot straight at goalkeeper Wheeler, who was only too thankful of the opportunity to save. Another corner, conceded this time by Lindsay, saw Gunn drop the ball into the goalmouth, and for a second there was much nervousness among Everton supporters when O’Neill failed to catch the ball clearly, but he was so quick in recovery that it did not really matter.
Lindsay “Own Goal”
Straight away Everton moved off and Fielding from well outside the penalty area, drove fiercely for goal but he got under the ball, which went speeding over the crossbar. Young Tansey had played Metcalfe very well up to now, but at the 13th minute this smart Huddersfield winger best him to a frazzle, out in and shot fiercely across the Everton goal. The ball struck Lindsay in transit and if was deflected to the back of the net. This was rank bad luck, for had not Lindsay touched the ball, I think it would have passed outside. Such happenings are part and parcel of the game, so it was up to Everton to retrieve themselves and there was plenty of time to do it. O’Neill had to save a header from Cavanagh and a free kick against Huddersfield set Everton on the offensive but a long ball from the rear was taken upfield by Shiner who slipped it out to Metcalfe but there that action ended.
Lello Supports
Lello was giving fine support to his forwards and when he put one up for Eglington, the Irishman cleverly beat Staniforth before he centred across the Town goal. Hickson wisely allowed the ball to pass him by, so that Fielding, who was coming up hot pace was able to make a fiery shot which had only one fault –the wrong direction. A foul against Staniforth saw Eglington sweep the ball across field, but it was wasted because there was no one to take it up. Everton’s goal had a narrow escape when a pass by Cavanagh to Shiner fore the Everton defence in half, and the Huddersfield Town leader was able to make a power-drive which O’Neill turned away at the expense of a corner. When Tom Jones failed to connect with the ball it allowed Glazzard to sneak in and almost catch the Everton defence napping but his shot as he was tackled passed outside. Everton were inclined to try to keep play on too short, which favoured quick tackling Town half backs, who more than once nipped in to pick up a ball intended for elsewhere.
Buckle’s Equaliser
It was just after the half hour when Everton won their equalizer and it was mainly due to the work of Fielding who cut inside as though he was about to deliver a centre, instead of which he tried an angular shot which the goalkeeper pushed away. Kelly, the one man who could have done something lost his foothold, which left the way open for Buckle, it was his trusty left foot which sent the ball crashing to the back of the net at the 31st minute. A Cummins header gave Hickson a half chance –I say half because McEvoy was standing alongside him and it meant a race between the pair. This was won by the Huddersfield centre half who passed back to his goalkeeper for safety. No man on the field was playing better than Tom Jones and it was a man’s job he had to fulfill, but he did not spare himself an inch. He was here, and everywhere.
Full of Promise
Glazzard tried to handle the ball into the net and Buckle made a push through pass for Hickson whose shot was blocked and the referee saw something which caused him to award Huddersfield a free kick. With a minute to go a run down the middle by Eglington was full of promise, particularly when he pushed the ball across to Fielding whose shot was saved by Wheeler. Tansy, not for the first time held up the flying Metcalfe and Lindsay who was playing grand defensive football cleared a ball from the goalmouth which looked really dangerous. Half-time; Everton 1, Huddersfield Town 1.
The first five minutes in the second half was devoted mostly to midfield play, but suddenly the Town attacked and Kelly who had followed up, found the ball coming to him and he hit it with great deliberation. It was really an excellent shot, but O’Neill had it covered all the way. It was some minutes before the Town pressure was eased and Fielding, after drawing the defence away from Eglington, offered him the sort of ball he usually cracks to the back of the net first time, but this was an instance when he preferred to make a centre.
Buckle Is Busy
It was now Everton’s turn to enjoy a spell of attack, and Buckle was only a fraction late, but he was just late enough to allow Wheeler to pull the ball down, lose it and fall on it. A nice movement by Everton had all the signs of a goal when Cummins slipped the ball through for Buckle, who ran the ball in close to the Huddersfield goal before he unleashed his shot. wheeler, however, was right in the line, and he managed to keep the ball out, although at the expense of an injury. It looked as though he was slightly dazed for he was using the smelling bottle for some minutes afterwards. McGarry was well off the mark from a scoring position and Quested failed to pick up a loose ball close in to the penalty line. The crowd were cheering Everton on, and they responded well, with out, however, getting in close enough with Wheeler.
Lindsay To The Rescue
Metcalfe had not had all his own way with Tansey but he was instrumental in winning a corner following which the Everton goal almost fell. It would have had not Lindsay headed out from Glazzard’s header. Glazzard, incidentally was at this point operation at centre forward. Another Metcalfe centre created hot work for the Everton defence and Eglington rather surprised Huddersfield when he ran through to make a shot when they had expected a little square pass to Hickson. The shot passed outside. Glazzard almost regained the lead for Hudderfield after Metcalfe had made play, for Glazzard’s header was only a foot or so the wrong side of the post.
‘Keepers In Action
A free kick against Huddersfield led to a sustained effort by Everton, the culminating point of it being a header by Fielding which Wheeler took care of. At the other end O’Neill dealt with a Metcalfe shot and later a close in one from Cavanagh. Huddersfield looked particularly dangerous to me hereabouts for Everton did not seem to be going to the ball with such eagerness as hitherto.
Penalty Award
Yet it was Everton who got the next goal via the penalty spot. There was no disputing that Staniforth handed Eglington’s centre, but whether it was intentional or not is another matter. He contested the legitimacy of the award but the referee stuck to his guns and Buckle scored with the penalty kick. Buckle almost got a third for Everton when he ran through the opposition only to see Wheeler save his drive. We had seen some particularly nice football today and some nice shots the bargain. Fielding came along with one to bring out a really top-class save by Wheeler. A little toughness crept into the game and although Huddersfield were fighting hard for a half share. Buckle offered Eglington a chance which should have put the issue beyond all doubt, but he shot straight at goalkeeper Wheeler. Huddersfield made a last dying effort, but it failed. Official 48,221. Final; Everton 2, Huddersfield 1.

ASTON VILLA RES V EVERTON RES
April 6, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Aston Villa Res;- Jones, goal; Lynn and Hunt, backs; Clarke, Proundler, Lamb, and Barrett, half-backs; Tyrell, Jefferis, Chapman, and McFarland, forwards. Everton Res;- Cordner, goal; Moore and Fletcher, goal; Cross, Wood, and Melville, half-backs; Gibson, Wainwright, Saunders, Farrell, and Easthope, forwards. Referee; Mr. G.D. Swinton (Stafford). At Villa Park today Everton conceded two goals in the first 15 minutes. Heavy rain had made conditions extremely difficult and although the Everton forwards made several good raids they could not penetrate the home defence. Villa’s goals both came from inside left Chapman. After seven minutes he drove in a hard shot which had keeper Cordner well beaten. Eight minutes later he headed home a good corner taken by left winger McFarland. Half-time; Aston Villa Res 2, Everton Res nil. Villa held the whip hand in the second half and netted through Tyrrell only for him to be judged off-side. Of the Everton forwards Saunders was the most lively, and in one good run he brought the ball right down the field, but was robbed of it just as he positioned for a shot.

TRAGIC PENALTY ‘KILLED’ THEM
April 7, 1953, The Liverpool Echo
Everton 2, Huddersfield Town 1
I confess to feeling sorry that Huddersfield had to lose. They did enough to have won or to have drawn, but battle as they did they could not undo the effect of a penalty award against them with only fifteen minutes remaining. If Staniforth handled that Eglington centre intentionally his reflexes are the fastest in the game. My belief is that no one could possibly anticipate the flighty of the ball, in so short a spade to handle intentionally. Rather was it a case of Staniforth trying to cut off the ball with a foot and the ball striking his hands overhead. Useless for Staniforth to plead the injustice of the desertion; it stood just sure as Huddersfield as a result of it. Making the best of a bad job Huddersfield pocketed their pride and use those last fifteen minutes to hammer Everton. They came literally within inches of equalizing. So the match finished as it progressed for most part. A keen and well-knit Everton defence facing and denying the first-rate attack of the best Huddersfield team we have seen for seasons. Buckle who converted the penalty; scored the other Everton goal too but it was more Fielding’s goal than Buckle. The little man had worked in close at a bad angle, before hitting shot which Wheeler could only half
Save. The ball rolled ideally for Buckle who stood on no ceremony and hit a really terrific shot. Huddersfield had taken a leading goal in eleven minutes and this was almost as unsatisfactory in it’s way as the penalty decision. Tansey meeting the wily Metcalfe for the first time was taken in by a typical Metcalfe spurt and the square centre which followed offered Lindsay no sort of chance of clearing. Running on to it he could scarcely have done other than turn the ball over his own goal-line. Lindsay had no need to put himself right in our eyes, but if he had been guilty of a mistake which he wasn’t his play from that point more than put everything right. His positional play tackling and use of the ball were superb. Occasionally Gunn beat him, but more often than not Lindsay was master. Even his specially fine play could not have produced results had not Jones given such admirable assistance. These were billiars of an Everton defence often working purely defensively for long stretches. No side at Goodison Park this season with the exception of Manchester United has shown such all-round strength as Huddersfield. Big, strong and staying the pace, excellently they always looked likely to get the goals to win and Everton had to have luck and ability to prevent it. On a ground made fairly heavy by yesterday’s rain it was a tremendous battle, holding the interest without pause. Three games in four days at this time of the season is test enough for any one, but there was scarcely a hint of tiredness from either team until the end when Huddersfield looked as though they had the better reserve. At this stage Glazzard went centre-forward to make the attack even more dangerous but Everton had their teeth into victory which had glamour and held out.
Busy O’Neill
The best move of many fine ones was one in which Eglington hooked the ball over Staniforth and Fielding shot inches wide from the centre. Both goalkeepers were above par with O’Neill the busier and making saves from all and sundry including full back Kelly. Wheeler was temporally knocked out when going down, galliantly, to the incoming Buckle, whom he also denied on other occasions. Odd that in holiday games both Everton wingers should each take two goals and go so near to hat-tricks. Maybe this is pertinent commentary on the inability of the inside men to score these past few weeks. Hickson was well held by McEvoy. Fielding’s shot were not always on the mark and Cummins was properly in his shell and on the receiving end of a number of fouls. Whether Huddersfield return to Division 1 or not this season they proved themselves to be worthy of Division 1. There was scarcely a weakness in their side from goal to outside left. It will be interesting to see what Everton make of their second tilt against them today. Meanwhile seconds views of young Tansey show him to have much promise even if his use of the ball was occasionally faulty. Certainly the lad did well enough against a forward of the calibre of Metcalfe. I have seen Metcalfe far more effective than he was yesterday.

EARLY GOALS BEAT EVERTON RESERVES
April 7, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Aston Villa Reserves 2, Everton Reserves 0
Two goals scored in the first fifteen minutes were sufficient for Aston Villa to defeat Everton in their Central league game at Birmingham yesterday. Heavy rain had turned the pitch into a morass and good football was virtually impossible. The more constructive play came from the Everton attack with centre forward Saunderes and inside right Wainwright prominent. The conditions and the good play of the Villa goalkeeper. Jones combined to prevent any Everton score however. Both Villa goals came from inside left Chapman the first after seven minutes and the second eight minutes later.
• George Mahon Cup- (semi-final) Everton “A” 6, Liverpool “A” 0
• Lord Wavertree Cup (Semi-final); Everton “B” 2 Brenks 1 (at Garston).

GOALS COUNT
April 7, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Everton’s Easter has so far been, joyous one, but whether they ran make it a 100 per cent occasion will not be decided until this evening which they return from Huddersfield. Huddersfield have a fine side at the moment and their bid for promotion is a very real one. I think they were a shade the better team at Goodison Park yesterday even though they went way empty-handed, due to the fact that goals are the only factor in football. To have played the better football is of no worth if the other chappie gets the goals and that was what happened at Goodison Park. I liked the incisive way they cut the ball through the gaps, I liked their open play, a definite need on the sticky turf, and they always appeared to be the more likely scorers. True, enough their goal was a fluky affair, for Metcalfe’s shot went into the Everton net via Lindsay’s thigh. It would not have reached there without that deflection. It was bad luck on Lindsay, for he was playing classic football. This Scot is not easily ruffied. He did not allow this thing to disturb him, and eventually that goal was erased from his memory by a Buckle goal a little later. Everton were not moving as smoothly as their rivals and for one spell they appeared slow to the ball, made faulty passes, in fact they lost their grip and it was then that Huddersfield should have gone to “Town.”
Keen Tussle
It was a grand game, and as keen a tussle as we have seen at the ground this season. No one could tell what was going to happen, for there were chances for both teams but it was left to the penalty spot to provide Everton with their winner. Buckle slipping the ball just inside the upright – the dreaded spot for any goalkeeper. Other Everton goals should have followed on, form Buckle himself and a Buckle pass which left Eglington in a perfect position –he shot outside. After Buckle’s penalty goal for hands against Staniforth the Yorkshiremen went all out for the equalizer, and they gave the 48,000 onlookers many scares before the final whistle sounded. Never did a whistle sound so sweet to the Evertonians ears. Fielding was as busy as a bee carrying and fetching and finding the time to pop up with a shot and he along with Tom Jones –another excellent display –and Lindsay a confident and studious defender stood out, I did not envy young Tansey his task against Metcalfe, yet he played him exceptionally well. The first time Metcalfe did beat him it was a goal for Huddersfield. This youngster made this smart winger fight for everything he got.
No Weak Link
There seemed to be a nicer flow about the “Town’s” football, for there was no weak link in the attack whereas Cummins for the second match in succession, was off his game. He held on too long for one thing, and secondly, many of his passes went astray. Some of them, however were chosen one in particular to Buckle should have produced a goal, but the winger took the ball too close in so that the goalkeeper was able to smother the shot.

HUDDERSFIELD GO TO TOWN
April 7, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Four Goals In First Half.
Everton Falter
By Stork
Huddersfield;- Wheeler, goal; Staniforth and Kelly, backs; McGarry, McEcvoy and Quested, half-backs; Gunn, Cavanagh, Glazzard, Davies, and Metcalfe, forwards. Everton; O’Neill, goal; Tansey and Lindsay, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Potts and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. Cowan, Manchester. Everton found it necessary to make one change for their return game with Huddersfield Town. Cummins is suffering from a heavy cold and Potts took over his place at inside left. Huddersfield Town had two positional changes, for Glazzard moved into the centre forward position with Cavanagh on his immediately right. Davie was the only real change and he operated at inside left. Everton played in their secondary colours or old gold and black. Huddersfield were on their toes and before Everton had really settled down had taken a goal in four minutes through Davie. Glazzard started the goal foundation when he put the ball to Davie. The latter beat Jones who was right on the wing and closing in he shot powerfully for the far side of the net, the ball passing into the corner.
Harrassed Defence
Everton had so far not settled down to anything like their normal rhythm whereas Huddersfield were so quickly into their stride that they had the Everton defence greatly harassed by their quick and razor-sharp passes. It was small wonder therefore that they took a second goal with the game only 11 minutes old. From Kelly’s long clearance Glazzard rose so high that he was able to beat O’Neill to the ball and nod it into the empty net. Everton had made several advances without a shot of any sort, and goalkeeper Wheeler had been an onlooker during the first 15 minutes. Buckle, after beating Kelly, put across a nice centre which Eglington pushed inside, but a Huddersfield man had read the intention and was there to make the clearance. Another centre landed in the Town goalmouth, but Wheeler was still waiting his first shot. Not so O’Neill who had to deal with a very powerful drive by Glazzard. This was a really good save. Everton could not get going at all. They did make scattered raids, but it was full back Staniforth who gave Wheeler a ball to retrieve.
Slow Off The Mark
Everton could have reduced the Town’s lead when Buckle and Fielding combined to make an opening for Hickson, but the Everton centre forward was a little slow off the mark and Wheeler dropped on the ball to save as Hickson went hurtling over Wheeler’s back. The Huddersfield goalkeeper was slightly injured and had to receive attention. Metcalfe and Davie were combining extremely well on the Town left, and from one ball that came from that direction O’Neill failed to get his fist to it. Glazzard also missed contact, but Cavanagh headed over the bar. O’Neill brought off one of his greatest saves when he turned over his bar a terrific drive by Metcalfe. Glazzard rose above all the others to nod a flag kick from Metcalfe into the net at the 33rd minute putting the Town three up. Huddersfield chalked up their fourth goal at the 38th minute when Metcalfe who was standing well inside the penalty area, picked up a loose ball which should have been cleared, and with his right foot, piloted it through the big gathering of players into the net, just inside the upright. I don’t suppose O’Neill saw that ball until it was passing him, for it was a 100-1 that he was unsighted. Eglington showed a clean pair of heels to Staniforth and made an oblique shot which Wheeler clutched to his body. With a minute to go, Fielding and Buckle were unsuccessful in trying to break down the Town’s defence.
Half-time; Huddersfield Town 4, Everton nil.
Glazzard scored a fifth for Huddersfield at the 48th minute and Gunn made it six a minute later. Hickson scored for Everton at 58 minutes.

NO EVERTON EXCUSE FOR HEAVY DEFEAT
April 8, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Huddersfield Town 8, Everton 2
Huddersfield Town helped their promotion bid considerably when they defeated Everton 8-2 at Leeds Road yesterday. On the play they deserved their success but perhaps not by such a big margin, for there were defence slips by Everton which let in Town forwards for a goal or two. Everton had neither rhythm in midfield nor potency neat goal. They were outmaneuvered and outplayed, almost throughout and it was only when Huddersfield began to rest on their Laure’s after gaining a commanding lead that Everton came into the picture in a scoring sense. I have not seen Everton so out of joint this season. To some extent Huddersfield were the cause for they took a grip on the game straight away and never released it. They were two goals up in twelve minutes and they never looked back. Everton could not pull out anything to compare with display of their opponents. The forwards could not muster any punch and the defence were not without blame for the heavy defeat.
Biggest Since War
Everton have not conceded so many goals since they had eleven scored again them by Wolverhampton Wanderers during the war years. After the game at Goodison Park on Monday we expected a close tussle. This was never had for while Everton seemed completely out of touch with themselves the Town were considerably improved on the first meeting. Their forward line was so full of shots that O’Neill had to make one or two starting saves. The Town moved at such speed with such fast and accurate passes that they cut down the Everton defence almost at will while it was some time before the Everton attack causes the own any worry at all. The first half they had a couple of shots, one by Buckle and one by Hickson, but it seemed they would never score. And I don’t think they would have done if Huddersfield had not eased up when they had a six goals lead. Hickson got both Everton goals his second as easily as any one of Huddersfield’s eight which may help their goal average and may have a bearing on their promotion bid in two or three weeks time. Glazzard at centre forward was a good move. He was much better than Shiner had been at Goodison Park and the fact that the scored four of the goals was sufficient evident of his ability as leader of the attack.
Goal-Maker Metcalfe
The man who has as much to do as anybody with Huddersfield’s victory was Metcalfe. He scored only one goal, but was the maker of several others. It was undoubtedly one of poorest Everton displays of the season. The only player who livened up to their reputations were Lindsay and Hickson, and to a lesser degree Buckle. Jones had an unenviable task against such keen progressive forward as Glazzard, Cavanagh and Davie. For the record purposes here is how the goals came. Davies (4 minutes), Glazzard (12), Glazzard (33), Metcalfe (38), Glazzard (48), Gunn (49), Hickson (58), Cavanagh (70), Glazzard (71) and Hickson (82).

METCALFE PASSES HELP GLAZZARD TO HEAD FOUR GOALS
April 8, 1953. The Yorkshire and Leeds Mercury
Huddersfield Town’s Great Win
By Richard Ulyatt
Huddersfield Town 8, Everton 2
During the last seven years Huddersfield Town have been one of the most exasperating sides in the Football League. They have never been deplorably bad, but they have seldom achieved all that their players’ talents has warranted. Still, endeavour and experience have never for long been properly co-ordinated. Against Everton yesterday all the virtues that go to make up a successful football team clicked smoothly into position from the kick-off, and they treated a handsome crowd to an afternoon of peasant sunshine, so that the Easter holiday ended memorably for Huddersfield folk. Huddersfield Town not only looked like a team hopeful of playing in the First Division next season, they played like one. They were a goal up in three minutes, they punctuated the proceedings at regular intervals with additional scores. Hey reached eight after 73 minutes and might have gone on to 10 or so. They would not I am sure, have conceded two goals to a centre-forward less resolute than young Hickson, who scored for Everton at times when, with the score 6-0 and 8-1. Town’s defenders suffered footballing aberrations. Davie, dropped for two previous matchs, set the game alight with a splendid goal, in which McGarry and Glazzard co-operated, and there again after two games at inside right stamped his personality on the match by scoring four times. Every one of those four was headed, everyone came from Metcalfe’s centres. In each case Glazzard used his extraordinary ability to jump higher than anyone else and each time he headed the ball with meticulous precision. Metcalfe’s centres were of that order, too. All the other forwards –Davie, already mentioned, Cavanagh, Metcalfe, even Gunn, who did not attain the standard of the others – scored. Most of them were memorable goals, yet the abiding memory will be of Glazzard rising in the air to get above the ball and seemingly choose his spot to head it into the net. Several of the goals would have been prevented by better goalkeepering. In many cases the Everton goal would not have been endangered if the wing half-backs had not have scored eight times without their own wing half-backs working hard and accurately, they would have had a goal or two less had not nearly every move they tried succeeded –Glazzard on one occasion nearly lobbed a goal from the dead-ball line. But on this form they were unquestionably second only in power, craft and resource to Sheffield United in the Second Division. And for Everton, their forward line looked worthy of a better defence and the duel between centre-forward Hickson and centre-half McEvoy brought into hard and evenly contested strife two of the most improved young players in the country. Because of that it was always a football match, never a walk-over.

PROMOTION BOUND
April 8, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
There comes a day in a man’s life when nothing will go right. No matter how he tries he cannot make things run on the usual smooth axle and it was such a day for Everton at Leeds Road, where they came the heaviest cropper of all time. Over 24 hours previously they had mastered Huddersfield Town at Goodison Park, so we all looked forward to a hard and close game. I knew it was going to be a tough tussle, for “Town” are promotion bent, and their Goodison Park defeat rankled thought they were the best team seen at Everton this season, yet I expected Everton to make a close call of it. They did nothing of the sort, for Huddersfield got the bit between their teeth from the start and never let go, although there was one spell when they undoubtedly eased up as any normal team would do with a six goals’ lead. Up to then they had been complete masters with Everton toiling along like a team that admitted defeat –aye, expected it. The Yorkshiremen, jumped into their stride instantly and within twelve minute had won a two goals lead, with a promising of more to follow. They fulfilled that promise faithfully and well for their supporters who were thrilled to see so many balls go into the net. They set a pace which Everton could not touch; took the ball while Everton waited, and this was one of the vital factors in “Town’s” victory.
Strong Backing
When you have the ball the odds are with you unless the opposition get to grips quickly, and this Everton never did. Huddersfield simply cut through the defence like a razor blade sheers off your whiskers and with continual support from the wing half backs Town had a seven-point attack which was much too clever for the Everton defence. O’Neill had one of those games which he will be eager to forget and Jones has never been beaten so easily as he was by Glazzard, the scorer of four goals. It may ease the Everton blow to know that Huddersfield, on their display, would have beaten any team in their division and quite a lot in the First Division. Right from goal to outside left there was confidence and determination and even when Everton scored the home side simple raced away to get two more goals in a minute. Everton were never together. They were given little time to get together, for Huddersfield were right on their job with a powerful attack and a well-knit defence. O’Neill usually so safe in the air was beaten by a leaping Glazzard who rise to a tremendous height and his handling of corner kicks was not at all convincing. He made a couple of fine saves but quite a few of those balls which entered his net should not have been there.
Forlorn Hope
Right from the start Everton were chasing a forlorn hope, for they had nothing to offer to curb these rampant Huddersfield forwards and half backs who simply ran the Everton defence off its feet. If I asked to pick off any Everton player who lived up to normal form I would immediately point my finger at Lindsay and Hickson. The latter never gave up trying and got two goals as a result but only when Town had decided that they could rest on their oars. Here is the score card for your notebook. Davies (4 minutes), Glazzard (12), Glazzard (33), Metcalfe (38), Glazzard (48), Gunn (49), Hickson (58), Cavanagh (70), Glazzard (71) and Hickson (82).
The game at Huddersfield yesterday was the first time in over 60 years association with the Football league that any club has scored eight goals against Everton. Wartime matches do not count in League records. On nine occasions the Blues have forfeited seven goals three times without reply. Only once since the last war have they had seven against them, when they played Portsmouth at Fratton Park on September 10 1949.

EVERTON’S CHANGES
April 10, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton have not had much success in their away games against Yorkshire clubs this season. After Tuesday’s heavy reverse at Huddersfield the Blues will be anxious to rehabiliate themselves to some extent by a victory against Leeds United at Ellian Road tomorrow, it such a result lies within their powers. Leeds draw when they were at Goodison Park in November, so that last year’s “double” is not possible for Everton, and victory tomorrow will not come unless the side reproduces something like the form it was serving up prior to the semi-final. Leeds themselves have not been doing too well lately with only one victory out of their last seven games. Everton have been so well balanced and reliable in defence for so long that one hopes recent lapses are only temporary. The forwards have shown greater understanding and more willingness to shoot which should hear good fruit if they do not let the memory of the Huddersfield game upset their equilibrium. Leeds to a large extent, have put all their eggs in one basket when it comes to scoring goals. Since John Charles formerly their centre half, took over the leadership of the attack he has proved himself a great centre forward, but has not had much support in the marksmanship line. Charles tomorrow will be at inside right, the position he will occupy for Wales against Ireland next Wednesday. Everton’s chances of equaling last season’s point total can still be realized but to achieve this they will need to do better than during the last few weeks. Last year thanks to their revival in the second half of the season they finished seventh with 44 points, which was only nine behind the leaders. They will be far more than that behind the champions this year, but a strong and united effort during their remaining matches could put them in the top half of the table. Leeds United; Scott; Dunn, Hair; Kerfoot, Marsden, Burden; McCall, Charles, Forest, Nightingale, Meek.

LEEDS FOREST SOON BRANCHED OUT, AND EVERTON WERE PUT IN THE SHADE
April 11, 1953. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Stork
Leeds 2, Everton nil
Not a very exciting game; in fact, there was an “end-of-the-season” flavor about it. A goal in a minute put the United on the running track. Leeds;- Scott, goal; Dunn and Hair, backs; kerfoot, Marsden, and Burden, half-backs; McCall, Charles, Forrest, Nightingale, and Meek, forwards. Everton; O’Neill, goal; Lindsay and Rankin, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones, and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Houston. Everton made two changes from the side that went down to Huddersfield earlier in the week. Parker returned and Lindsay moved move to right back to accommodated Rankin at left back. Everton played in black and white. We had a shock a few days ago when Huddersfield took the lead in four minutes. We had an even greater one at Elland Road for Leeds were a goal up in less than one minute. Forrest finished off a movement on the Leeds right to slip the ball into the net to score the first home goal for his club. McCall and Nightingale were the instigators of the goal which put Everton on the collar immediately. For some minutes the United attacked, but eventually Everton swung into action and Parker sent Hickson off. Hickson combined nicely with Fielding, but Fielding’s centre into the penalty area was safely disposed of by Kerfoot who put the ball back to Scott.
Just Too Far
Parker was again responsible for another good pass to Eglington. The Irish winger, beaten at the first at the first attempt got a second chance but again the Leeds defence came out triumphant. Hickson tried to brush his way through and he certainly looked dangerous until he put the ball a shade too far forward. The United had been penned to their own quarters for some minutes. McCall got an opportunity to show his ability against Rankin. After beating the Everton defenders McCall put the ball straight over to Meek, who with a great chance shot widely over. Everton had been having the best of matters since the goal incident but eventually United took up the challenge. Lindsay had to cut a centre from McCall and O’Neill had to field a downward header by Forest.
Fighting For Goal
Hickson was going through when he was knocked off the ball. Everton were fighting for the equalizer and Fielding had a hard shot charged down by Marsden. A long clearance by Jones was quickest taken up by Eglington who after prodding the by beyond Marsden went trekking for goal, looking all over a goal scorer- he was away on his own and the only man who could stop him was goalkeeper Scott. Eglington took the ball close in and Scott advanced from his lair. When Eglington shot Scott was bang in the way and the goal was saved. Lello saved an awkward situation by a quick and determined tackle on Nightingale. A pass by Fielding seemed too speedy for Eglington but the Irish winger’s speed enabled him to take possession only to put the ball behind. O’Neill made sure of a Meek centre by jumping high above all others and making a clean catch and clearance.
Charles On The Mark
Nightingale after getting the better of Jones swept the ball across the Everton goalface, but the ball was too high for Meek. C harles had not had many chances. He came along at the half hour with a rasping drive from 20 yards out. O’Neill saving. Straight to the other end went play and Scott did well to save from Buckle, offered a chance by Hickson. After Lello and Buckle had joined to put pressure on the Leeds goal, Farrell found an opening for a shot and although the ball bounced awkwardly for him, he forced Scott to save. O’Neill stopped a hook shot by McCall and later saved a header from Forest. Nightingale put McCall through with a neat pass but the winger was dispossessed. John Willie Parker’s persistence won his side a corner, and Buckle’s low centre surprised everyone by passing harmlessly across the Leeds goal. Farrell tried another shot which was kept out in the penalty area. Straight from the Forest burst through and was grassed by Lindsay.
Half-time; Leeds United 1, Everton nil.
Within two minutes a corner by Fielding, on the right, saw Scott drop the centre, Hickson tried to take the ball away from him and failed; Buckle attempted to do the same thing but Scott got himself in the way and the ball was got away. Hickson hurt in a tackle with Marsden, had to receive attention to his knee. United went right into the attack when the game restarted, and from a corner Lindsay headed out Charles’s header, but the ball went straight back to Meek, who headed it back into the net in the 52nd minute. A Parker back-heeled pass was collected by the Leeds defence before an Everton man could appear on the scene, and a corner by Everton created a little trouble for the United defence. O’Neill had to go down quickly for a shot by Nightingale. United were now putting in a sustained attack. A quick throw-in by Farrell started Everton off on a promising attack in which Fielding, Buckle and Hickson were concerned. The last named’s centre eluded Eglington and Parker. Then Eglington tried a snap shot which went outside.
More Everton Drive
Nightingale had a tussle near the Everton goal but was beaten by the weight of numbers. A long lob was caught by Scott, who later accepted a sharp header by Parker. Everton were showing a little more drive now. Marsden was glad of the opportunity to give away a corner rather than anything more important, for had he attempted anything fanciful, Hickson was ready to take advantage of anything which came his way. Nightingale after slipping through failed to get his flip-pass inside Jones taking the ball and clearing. Nightingale and Meek between them opened the way for Charles when the winger had an excellent centre for the touch line, but the Welshman was not quick enough to take the chance.
Pounced On
He was preparing for a shot when he was pounced on by an Everton man. Fielding and Buckle were doing their best to make a goal, and had not Marsden sized up the situation, and nipped in and headed away there could have been trouble for Scott. Lello and Hickson made an opening for Fielding whose shot passed over the bar. There was a big roar when Charles set off for goal, the crowd anticipating a shot, instead Charles slipped the ball out to Forest, who was so taken by surprise he allowed the ball to elude him. Charles had a shot outside and O’Neill had to move speedily to prevent a Burnden hook shot finding its mark. Final; Leeds United 2, Everton nil. Attendance 15,000.

EVERTON RES V STOKE RES
April 11, 1953. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton Res; Leyland, goal; Moore and Fletcher, backs; Fitzsimmons, Forshaw and Melville, half-backs; Mayers, Thomas, Lewis, Farrell, and Easthope, forwards. Stoke City Res; Yoxall, goal; Cotton and Doyle, backs; Farrow, Bockett, and Kirton, half-backs; Ward, Johnson, Whiston, Finney and Siddall, forwards. Referee; Mr. H.E. Lambert. Everton served up capital football and were easily the superior force, with Mayers outstanding on the right. The Blues took the lead in the 30th minute with a splendid shot from Lewis. Yoxall was constantly busy in the Stoke goal. But for him Everton would have led by a greater margin. Half-time; Everton Reserves 1, Stoke City Reserves nil. Stoke began on a bright note with Johnson calling on Leyland to deal with a good shot. Everton, however, increased their lead in the 50th minute Thomas from 25 yards giving Yoxall no chance. Everton were again having more of the play and the Stoke defence had an anxious time.

CUP “ZIP” NOW MISSING
April 13, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Leeds United 2, Everton 0
By Stork
What has happened to the Cup-tie “zip” which took Everton to the semi-final? Not since Maine Road has it been manifest in Everton’s play. Against Bolton Wanderers they had the spirit to hit back, at Ellan Road on Saturday, against a team not nearly so capable as the Wanderers they had not the fight to pull back two goals. Had Leeds been a good side I would not have minded. They were not. Hence Everton’s defeat was all the harder to bear. There was nothing at stake (which is all the more reason why the game should have produced something better), but the only thrill was Forrest’s goal in less than one minute; even then the scorer shaped as though he was going to miss a “gift” by slowness. There was still 89 minutes to play; ample time for Everton to rub that goal off, but there was no punch in the attack. Leeds were a little more go ahead, but even they could not be classed as more than moderate and the playing of John Charles at inside right was not a success. He seemed like a fish out of water. He will have to show something better when he turns out for Wales against Ireland, United’s second goal had a slice of luck about it, for Meek was fortunate to be in the right place when Lindsay headed out a Charles header. Everton were kindness itself to goalkeeper Scott, who once dropped the ball close to goal though Buckle could not take the easy chance. Everton were too easy going near goal. Fielding put through some lovely passes but none of them were up and it soon became obvious that they were not going to wipe out that Forrest goal much less Meek’s effort just after the interval. Hickson had little scope for Marsden look good care of him. O’Neill had several saves to make yet the United could not be hailed as prolific shooters. They got two goals and that was enough to put paid to a rather lifeless Everton.
• Everton Reserves 2, Stoke City Reserves 0
• Hoylake Ath 0, Everton “A” 5
• Liverpool County F.A Junior Cup (semi-final); Film Bank 4, Everton “B” 1
• Royden Benevolent Shield (semi-final); Everton “C” 3, Netherton 1

NEVER A MENACE
April 13, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
We are getting near the end of the season, and if what I saw at Elland Road is a sample of what I have to witness for the remainder of the season, I will not be sorry to see the last of 1952-53, for the meeting between Leeds United and Everton was as tame as a game of croquet. It would not have needed a great team to have beaten Leeds United for they were no great shakes even though they got off with a start of a goal in less than 60 seconds. A little more spirit by Everton would have done the trick for in approach work they were superior, but near goal they stumped badly. I feat the “Blues” have gone a little stale after their praiseworthy effort in the Cup. This was easily their most unimpressive display this year.
Poor Standard
Had the United been a good team I would not quibble but here was an instance when Everton could have picked up a couple of points without any great effort. It needed only a little of their cup-tie favour and Leeds United would have been readily beaten. True, there was a little more life about the United, but never at any point did the game reach a standard above mediocre.
Flying Start
Everton were lethargic and uninspiring and Leeds very little better. They goals and that was about all one could say about them, part from the fact that there was a little more “fire” about their play. Forrest was naturally delighted to score his first home goal for his club but he delayed his attention so long that he appeared likely to lose the chance of setting his side off to a flying start. Meek’s goal was scored after John Lindsay had headed out a certain goal by Charles and Meek happened to be in the right place for the return. Don’t think Everton not have their chances; they did but were in the mood to take them. Buckle should have had one when Scott dropped the ball and Eglington with only Scott to beat took the ball too close to the goalkeeper, who countered him.
Central league Game
Everton have a Central League game at Goodison Park this evening (kick-off 5.30) when the visitors will be Wolverhampton Wanderers. This is the fixture which was originally due to be played on February 14 but had to be postponed because of Everton’s fifth round cup-tie with Manchester United. Everton Reserves –Dunlop; Moore, Anderton; Grant, Forshaw, Melville; Gibson, Thomas, Saunders, Farrell, Kearsley.
The kick off in the re-arranged first team game against Bury at Goodison on Wednesday will be 5.45. The other rearranged senior match against Lincoln City on Wednesday week, April 22, will start at seven o’clock due to the extra hour of summer time having come into operation.

EVERTON WERE MORE ACCURATE IN FINISHING
April 14, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Res 2, Wolverhampton Res 0
By Ranger
Despite being opposed to a Wolverhampton side which included no fewer than seven players with senior team experience, some of them over quite lengthily periods, Everton youthful Central league eleven were not only full value for their victory at Goodison Park last night, but would have won more handsomely but for the excellence of Williams in the visiting goal. Though there was not a tremendous difference between the sides in midfield or defence when it came to finishing Everton were the more accurate and quicker to take their chances. Wolverhalmpton carved out many promising openings by good approach work then nullified everything by making one pass too many or by shooting too hurriedly. Everton’s solid defence, which revolved a reliable pivot in Forshaw was not always master of the Wolves speedy and aggressive forwards but the home side’s covering was good and Dunlop was safe in goal.
Farrell Star Forward
Meville and Grant also did good work at wing half and gave the right backing to their forwards. Star of the home attack was Farrell, a 17-year-old who on this showing has the makings of a splendid player. Kearsley though rather small and light also shaped well, while Saunders was an energetic and trustful leader. Farrell opened Everton’s account with a terrific shot which gave Williams the former England goalkeeper no possible chance. This was after 50 minutes and ten minutes after Saunders showed his coolness and quickness to size up the position when he headed the ball over Williams’ outstretched hands as the latter advanced from goal. Stuart the visiting pivot made a despairing effort and actually kicked the ball away, but it had crossed the line by fully a foot before he made contact. Wolves were best sleeved by Broadbent and Stockin in attack and Stuart, Gibbins and Williams in defence.

EVERTON ENTERTAIN BURY
April 14, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Shakers Need More Points To Avert Threat of Relegation
Ranger’s Notes
Everton will be home tomorrow against Bury, when they have an opportunity of recording their third double of the season as they have already defeated the Shakers at Gigg Lane. The kick-off is 5.45. The Blues’ 3-0 victory at Bury was their best away win of the season, thanks largely to a hat-trick by Potts. For the margin to be anywhere near that tomorrow, however the home team will have to improve considerably on some recent displays especially as Bury have the Spur of needing more points still make sure that they are not involved in the relegation morass. Although the Shakers appear to be safe, they cannot afford to take chances. Both Hull City and Southampton could overhaul them though the position of the latter bar a storming finish which hardly looks possible already seems rather hopeless. If Bury had been a better fighting side away they would not be in a such lowly position. They have as good a home record as Everton, but in away matches have taken only nine points out of 38 at stake. They have won at Southampton, Hull and Birmingham – the latter was a very good performance – and have drawn at Plymouth, Doncaster and Brentford. They drew what at Goodison Park a year ago. A similar result would doubtless satisfy them tomorrow, but would not be so pleasing to Everton who have struck another rather lean patch since their exit from the Cup.
Half-Way Position
Though the Blues gratified their supporters by their grand fight in the national competition the position of the side in the Second Division table is decidedly disappointing. At best they can hardly hope now to finish higher than the half-way mark and can achieve that only by improving on their points ratio of the last couple of months. They have gained only nine points from their last 11 outings, with an adverse goal average of 16 for and 24 against. But for hat all-time record defeat a Huddersfield, however, the goal average would have been more favourable. As is it, on the season’s aggregate it is better than most of those in their vicinity in the table. After tomorrow’s game Everton have two further home fixtures, one against Luton Town on Saturday and the other the rearranged game with Lincoln City tomorrow week. Their only remaining away match is that against Birmingham at St. Andrews, on Saturday week. The Luton and Birmingham fixtures look formidable. Luton still have an outside chance of overhauling Huddersfield for promotion. Apart from their successes in the F.A Cup the current season has not shown Everton up in the light many hoped for. Promotion has never been remotely in sight and on the basis of what happened this winter does not look much of a possibility next season.
A Good Show
I don’t often get the chance to watch Central League football, but if what I saw at Goodison Park last night was a fair sample, I’d like to see more. Everton got both points through well-taken goals by Farrell and Saunders, and might have won more handsomely but for the excellence of Bert Williams the former England goalkeeper. Had they done so however it would have been an injustice to Wolves. The visiting team included no fewer than seven players with varying periods of senior experiences. Everton’s team though young and inexperienced by comparison showed up very favourably, and played most attractive football. I liked the way both teams went to the ball instead of waiting for it to come to them. They were fast, combined well and particularly in the case of Everton showed refreshing willingness to shoot hard and often. Wolves were inclined to fiddle a bit too much when they got within striking distance. That was their undoing. Farrell, Everton’s 17-year-old inside forwards, looks to have the makings of a great player, Kearsley is also very promising, but is just a little too easily knocked off the ball, Saunders a solidity-built cenre forward, is another who looks a good future prospect, while Forshaw was pleasing at centre half and Dunlop did well in goal. The rest of the side also performed satisfactorily, and altogether with Wolves serving up some good stuff as well, this was a most enjoyable game, worthy of a much bigger crowd than turned up to see it.

DEBUT DOUBLE FOR DEREK MAYERS
April 16, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 3, Bury 0
Not often an eighteen-year-old outside right making his League debut begins with a goal, but Derek Mayers of Speke, went one better. Inside thirty-five minutes at Goodison Park, last night he had shot two past the Bury goalkeeper, Kirk. The second was from one of those once-in-a-lifetime volleys which leave a goalkeeper, however, good, with no time to move. An Eglington corner swung into the goalmouth where Young Mayers took it before it reached the ground, left foot and cracked it into the net with a solid “zonk” which could be heard all over the all but empty ground – there were fewer than 12,000 spectators and most of them were tucked away from the rain on the under-the-stands terraces. Take in conjunction with his first goal, at eleven minutes this luscious shot showed Mayers to have a nice idea of location and even nicer notion of how to find a spot beyond the goalkeeper. His first goal came because he was quickly into his stride to pick up the offering of Dave Hickson. Once clear of his man Mayers moved in without hurry and scored with a shot as neatly delivered as it was effective. Several other things went to Mayers credit. He centred nicely he used the ball thoughtfully and to prove that he really has punch in his shooting he took opportunity (after the whistle had gone for a foul) to hit yet another terrific shot. Kirk chose this moment to make the best of many fine saves.
Never A Match
Bury though trying hard and persistently never really made a match of it. Tactically they made more blunders in ninety minutes than we have seen at Goodison Park all season. Everton’s third goal shortly after the start of the second half was the perfect example of how to gave away a goal. Kirk and two full backs delayed to such an extent about what to do, Parker was able to catch them at sea and flick the ball out to his right where Hickson preferred not to tap the ball over the line, but to stam it over. Bury created a few moments of danger for Leyland after a lot of painstaking approach play, but they were about the worst side we have seen here this season. They floundered for their reasons than a pitch made treacherous by mud. Constructively both wing half backs, Greenhalgh and Bardsley did well. The England amateur J. A. Walton had a splendid match in which he did everything, an inside forward could do to get an attacking moving. The trouble was that the line has no directionness and little thrust. The Everton defence ate into attacks continually and usually went on to start Everton attacks, which had the Bury defence in serious trouble. With Greenhalgh and Walton on a pedestal, was goalkeeper Kirk whose handling of a ball always difficulty to hold was as good as his anticipation.
Far The Better
Everton were by the better side. The mistakes they made were often due to the fact that the ball was nearly always sliding away from control. Hickson led the attack with his customary dash and was characteristically unselfish in providing others with passes Cummins did not always play as progressively as he might, but Parker apart from his part in the Hickson goal, was on the mark with foot and head. Kirk’s excellence denied him an early goal. Though report of the Scott Imlach was that he was one of the best wingers in Division 2, he did not confirm that reputation. Nor did Fletcher show signs of ability until the second half. The result was that the Bury attack was never given a chance to move as a line. For this Jones, Clinton and Lindsay, who all played to their best form were mainly responsible. This uninspiring Bury matched the weather on the occasion. Towards the end gloom closed in as relegation closes in on Bury. Even the white ball became dark and almost indiscernible. The only illuminating things then were some street lamps and the memory of the wonderful second goal by Mayers. Everton; Leyland, goal; Clinton and Lindsay, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Lello, half-backs; Mayers, Cummins, Hickson, Parker, and Eglington, forwards. Kirk, goal; Fairclough and Massey, backs; Greenhalgh, Harris and Bardsley, half-backs; Fletcher, Walton, Plant, Gleadan, and Impach, forwards. Referee; Mr. F.L. Overton.

DREAM DEBUT FOR MAYERS
April 16, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Everton’s Easy Victory Over Unimpressive Bury Team
Ranger’s Notes
Part of Everton’s object in bringing forward last night’s game with Bury from May 2 was to avoid the anticipated drop in attendance due to the broadcasting and televising of the Cup Final on the last day of the season. An understandable desire but it misfired due to last night’s November –like weather keeping the attendance down to 11,789. Despite the counter-attraction on Mat 2, I think the gate would have been bigger had the fixture been allowed to stand for the original date. But in that case the club would not have been able to take the players who got them to the semi-final and their wives, to see the Wembley game. In any case, nobody can legislate for the weather. Everton would doubtless be glad if they had to play Bury more often. Two games four points and eight, goals to nil has been the Blues’ reward this season against the Shakers who shook nothing last night except the confidence of their few followers. Bury played some quite attractive approach football at times, but they kept the ball too close and finished badly though Leyland made a couple of smart saves from Gleadall after Everton had the game well won.
Like A Story Book
Derek Mayers had one of those story book debuts. He got two splendid goals, played well throughout under conditions which were anything but favourable to a youngster of only 18 –on a treacherous surface with a greasy ball that took a lot of controlling. His first in eleven minutes, was a strong right-foot cross shot from Hickson’s pass. The second was a terrific left-footer on the volley from Eglington’s corner-kick which could be best described, if rather inelegantly , as a “real thumping wallop” the sound of which as boot met ball reminded one of the wartime “crump” of a land-mine in the distance. This came after 35 minutes. Mayers quickly promoted to senior rank, is a two-footed player of undoubtedly skill, possessing a strong shot and a nice positional; sense. Though a good battler his light build makes him liable to be knocked off the ball occasionally. He may put on weight, yet though. Hickson got Everton’s third just on the hour, when a long clearance by Leyland skidded beyond the Bury centre half and Parker, Hart and goalkeeper Kirk disputed possession. Parker’s flick left Hickson with an open goal.
Quite Satisfying
Considering the bad conditions this game produced much play that was entertaining, despite the tendency of both forward lines, to sometimes hold the ball too long and pass too short. Long crossfield passes would have served much better on many occasions. It was easy to see why Bury are where they are in the table. Their forwards wanted to walk the ball in, and the defence was shaky under pressure. Everton were full value for their win, and might have made it by a greater margin if one or two good chances had not gone begging. The Everton backs and goalkeeper all played well; the half-back line was satisfactory, and apart from Parker’s occasional slowness one could rarely fault the forward line.
Luton’s Strongest
Although still without Eire international left back Aberna, who has been injured, Luton field what is now regarden as their strongest side against Everton. Shanks resumes at left- half, after a long absence prior to last Saturday which enables Owen to return to centre half. The forward line, which has scored seven goals in the last two matches remains unchanged. Team; Luton; Baynham; Jones, Pemberton; Morton, Owen, Shanks, Davies, Turner, Pye, Watkins, Mithcell.

EVERTON CHANGES
April 17, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton home to Luton Town have nothing vital at stake beyond the natural desire to improve their position in the League table as much as possible. It would look nicer if they could finish in the top half of the chart. Luton Town visit Goodison with their hopes on the possibility of promotion. They have been steadily ascending the table for the past few months. Now there is a chance if Huddersfield falter that Luton might overhaul them. I don’t think they will, but so long as the chance is there the Hatters are sure to make an all-out effort. Though their major ambition may elude them Luton will have one consolation. They are bound to finish in a higher position than they have ever done before in Second Division football. One of the main factors or their success this season, apart from their cast-iron defence has been the excellent work of Jesse Pye at centre forward. The former Wolverhampton player has proved one of the best signings by any club this campaign. Not only has he been getting a good crop of goals himself, but he has helped to draw the best out of the men alongside him. Luton’s attack is one of the speediest and most effective in the country. There is fluency and balance about it as well, with striking power in all five forward positions. Everton make two changes compared with the team which defeated Bury. Mayers who made such a splendid debut on Wednesday, gives way to Buckle; the idea presumably being not to unduly extend the 18-year-old part-timer though with nothing at stake some might have thought this just the time to include him. Fielding takes the place of Cummins. Everton; Leyland; Clinton, Lindsay; Farrell, Jones, Lello; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, Eglington. Luton; Baynham; Jones, Pemberton, Morton, Owen, Shanks, Davies, Turner, Pye, Watkins, Mitchell.

IMPORTANT TO LUTON
April 18, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
At Goodison Park we will also see a game which can have a bearing on championship prospects for Luton Town. Everton’s visitors occupy their place in the Second Division table and with a game in hand have a good chance of gaining promotion. Last season the Town scored a sound 3-1 victory at Goodison and they can be expected to make strenuous efforts to repeat that success. Everton, however, can be a difficult side to beat before their own followers and I expect them avenge that defeat of last season. Everton make two changes compared with the side successful against Bury in mid-week –Buckle for Mayers at outside right and Fielding in place of Cummins at inside right. The teams are;- Everton; Leyland; Clinton, Lindsay; Farrell, Jones, Lello; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, Eglington. Luton; Baynham; Jones, Pemberton, Morton, Owen, Shanks, Davies, Turner, Pye, Watkins, Mitchell.

HONOURS EVEN IN LIVELY WIND UP TO SATURDAY GAMES AT GOODISON
April 18th 1953. The Liverpool Football Echo
By Stork
Luton needed both points at Goodison Park to stay in the promotion race. They got only one in a game that was most interesting and attractive, Pye their crack goal-scorer, got little change out of Jones, but by the same token Hickson was well taken care of by Owen. There was much good football with plenty of goal incidents. What could one wish for more than that? Everton; Leyland, goal; Clinton and Lindsay, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, and Eglington, forwards. Luton Town; Baynham, goal; Jones and Pemberton, backs; Morton, Owen, and Shanks, half-backs; Davies, Turner, Pye, Watkins, and Mitchell, forwards. Referee; Mr. B.T. Flanagan, Sheffield. Luton were quickly off the mark and Davies their outside right was responsible for a nice centre which however, was just a shade too high for Pye, who had moved closed into goal in anticipation of his winger’s intention. Everton were quick to reply, and Hickson and Buckle contrived to put the Town defence out of position and the Everton winger’s ball into the goalmouth was headed outside. The nicest move thus far went to Everton. It started from Lello, the ball moving on to Parker and eventually to Hickson and there was promise of an Everton goal, but the Luton defence ultimately came out in triumph. At this point Everton were playing confidently and well and Farrell and Eglington contrived an opening for Buckle, whose right footed shot did not have the sting good enough to bring about the fall of Baynham. Pye has a quick football mind, as he showed when he nipped in quickly to take a ball that seemed to belong to Everton’s defence. It was immediately after this that Everton took the lead. Hickson was the opening point in the action, Eglington taking up the challenge and slipping the ball inside to Buckle, who had moved right into the Luton goalmouth, so that he had only a short-range shot to make to beat Baynham at the eighth minute. In the next minute Leyland had to make a really top-class save from Turner. So far we had seen much good football and an Everton goal so the Everton folk were very well-satisfied.
Nearly A Second
Everton might have had a second goal when Eglington showed a clean pair of heels to a couple of opponents but then shot well outside from a rather difficult angle. Tom Jones had a number of tussles with Pye, and he had come out of them with distinction, Leyfield had to watch with care a high lob by Turner and then goalkeeper Baynham was penalized for handling the ball outside the penalty area. The kick was taken, three times in all, and finally the ball was sent high over the bar by Buckle. Luton took a goal at the 27th minute when they did not look like they might score. Turner went right out on the wing and as he did so Davies slipped into the Everton goalmouth. Leyland got his hands to Turner’s centre but only pushed the ball sideways and felt Davies with the simple task of putting the ball into the net. This gave Luton more heart and Leyland had to drop quickly to prevent a low shot by Mitchell sneaking over his goal line. A free kick for Everton for a foul on Buckle gave them a change of regaining the lead for Parker moved in for Jones’s free kick and it seemed a pound to a pitch of salt. Baynham would be beaten, Parker, however, in his attempt to blind the ball away from the goalkeeper sent it outside.
Lello’s Grand Work
Another free kick to Everton saw the Town goalkeeper save from Lello. Yet a third free kick followed on. This was put into the Luton goalmouth by Clinton, but Baynham came out and made a good catch well above his head. Lello was doing magnificent work at this stage and from one of his judicious passes he sent Fielding off, but Fielding’s intended centre was pulled well behind. A two-piece suite between Fielding and Buckle culminated in a low swerving shot by Fielding which Baynham dropped like a ton of bricks. I said two-piece suite, it was actually three-piece because Lello initiated the whole idea. With one minute to go to half time, Buckle and Hickson had the Luton defence seriously worried until Hickson blazed outside. Half-time; Everton 1, Luton 1.
Luton resumed as they finished off with a strong attack and Leyland had to save from Turner. The referee had a word to say to Bayham after the Luton goalkeeper and Hickson had been involved in a close-to-goal incident. Buckle rose a tremendous height to get his head to an Eglington centre and steer it a matter of inches over the Luton crossbar. It was a really magnificent effort on the part of the Everton winger.
Another Bad Miss
]hereabouts the Everton left wing was having a joyous time and Luton were a shade fortunate to get away it to the extent of only a corner. Suddenly the point of action was transferred to Buckle’s wing, and Ted offered a sweet ball to Fielding, who once again got too much under it and it went well over. Lello Burst his way through but just as he shot Owen got in his way. Everton were now testing the Luton defence to the full, and Baynham made a sensational last-minute save from Parker. Davies and Turner worked a beautiful opening for Watkins but the inside left completely missed his kick so that the Everton defence stepped in to clear Leyland made a save from full back Pemberton and Baynham came along with another from Hickson.
A Matter Of Inches
A matter of 12 inches prevented Hickson from scoring for Baynham could not possibly have got across to the ball as it passed outside. Goalkeeper Baynham created a laugh when he fell on his haunches as he was about to take a goalkick. Turner was responsible for one of the best shots of the match when from just outside the penalty area he drove in a shot which Leyland turned over his bar for a corner. This was speedily dealt with. Then they got another one when Pye showed an amazing burst of speed to beat Jones. A drop kick clearance by Tom Jones went straight to Eglington who went off like a greyhound to beat Leslie Jones and then deliver a shot which had full power behind it but not true direction, the ball passing out after flashing across the front of the goal.
In Luck’s Way
Luton had a bit of luck when an Eglington cross –or it may have been intended as a shot –travelled too fast for either Parker or Hickson, for the ball only needed a touch to make it a goal. Clinton held up Pye with a sterling tackle and Farrell also looked after Watkins when that player was advancing in a menacing manner. A Pye shot which passed outside must have been slightly deflected for Luton were awarded a corner. Lello tried an acute angle shot when there was not much possibility of him finding the net, for even if the ball did not hit the post it would have hit the goalkeeper. With five minutes to go, Baynham made a particularly good save from Buckle. He held the ball as though in a vice, despite the fact that Buckle had put all he had behind the shot. Just on time Hickson was hurt when he appeared to get a blow in the face. Final; Everton 1, Luton Town 1. Official attendance 32,948.

BURNLEY RES V EVERTON RES
April 18, 1953. The Liverpool Football Echo
Burnley Res;- McDonald, goal; Simms and Mather, backs; Seith, Wareing and Bennion, half-backs; Cheesebrough, Morris, Williams, Milner, and Pilkington, forwards. Everton Res; O’Neill, goal; Moore and Anderton, backs; Grant, Forshaw, and Melville, half-backs; Harris, Lewis, Saunders, Farrell, and Kearsley, forwards. Referee; Mr. H. Freeman (Preston). A two minute goal spell found Everton two goals down. Cheesebrough (20 minutes) hooked over O’Neill on the line, then Milner ended a brilliant run to force the ball through a ruck of players. Twice O’Neill was applauded for fine catches. Saunders was prominent in attack. Half-time;- Burnley res 2, Everton Res nil. Some neat moves came from Kearsley and Farrell and one extended. Both goals had narrow escapes and O’Neill with a flying leap flicked a 25-yard drive from Binns over the bar. O’Neill was a busy man.

ALAN GRENYER DIES AT THE AGE OF 60
Shields Daily News - Monday 20 April 1953
A Grenyer, former Everton and England left half and trainer to North Shields for 25 years, died at his home in Park Terrace, North Shields, early this morning. He was 60. Although constantly troubled by illness, Alan carried on his job as trainer to the Robins until he had no other alternative than to announce his retirement in March this year due to failing health. Of this great sportsman Mr. Stan Shotton, secretary of North Shields A.F.C., said: “Naturally this is great shock to me. Alan was a close personal friend of mine and was held in high esteem by players and officials alike at Appleby Park.
Alan.’’ Mr. Shotton continued, "was always considered part of Appleby Park and no club could have had a better servant. The club and everyone connected with it has lost a great friend.” He distinguished himself on the field and while he was with Everton he gained international honours, the first native of North Shields ever to do so. His career began at the age of 17 when, a shy soccer-mad youngster, he signed for North Shields, He was quickly noticed by Everton and was transferred to Goodison Park where he built up a reputation for his scienfic play and clean sportsmanship.  After 13 seasons with Everton Alan felt the urge to return to his native Tyneside and was reluctantly granted his release from the club He was allowed to go to South Shields, who were then a Second Division club, on one condition-that he only played for the Mariners. 
LILLYCROP’S ASSISTANT
Later he became assistant trainer to George Lillycrop for the Mariners. Alan became proficient as a trainer and after five seasons as trainer to South Shields he took up a similar post with the club who gave him his first chance in senior football -North Shields. Almost everyone in North Shields knows the Grenyer story from that point. He was with the club for quarter of a century and during that time he trained a side which gained every honour possible except, of course, the F.A. Cup.
One man at Appleby Park who will miss Alan It the newly appointed trainer Micky Smith who owes his position to Alan's training. When Alan knew he would have to give up his position due to his health he trained and passed on expert advice to Micky who now has that Grenyer touch in everything he does.  Mickey often used to listen to Alan on trainer’s problems and gained experience for a job he took up almost accidentally.  Alan was repairing the pitch one day wen Mickey walked into Appleby Park and offered his assistance which Alan accepted.  Since that day the two were companions on and off the field. 
A FRIEND TO ALL
He was not only a trainer at Appleby Park he was also a friend to all.  Players who were having a lean period would go to Alan and “talk it over” as Alan used to say and he would advise them what to do to regain their confidence.  Everyone will agree with me when I say “He will be missed at Appleby Park but the memory of the man whoever once attended a game without his cap will be remembered as long as football is played in North Shields.”  Alan’s son- also called Alan –plays centre half for North Shields.   Shields and was also formerly with South Shields.  The date of the interment has not yet been fixed.  –DICK KIRKUP

MATHER SHONE IN RESERVES
April 20 1953 The Burnley Express
Burnley Reserves 3, Everton Reserves 1
Everton forwards were forceful until they approached near the goal and then lack of punch and a Burnley defence, fortified by the experienced Mather, nullified their efforts. Mather had an outstanding game setting an example in the finer arts –positional play, intelligent distribution and sound clearance under pressure. Bobby Seith maintained his promise, and recently introduced Jack Bennion –whilst a little unsure in defence – did much in attack. Burnley’s first two goals were engineered by him. For the first Milner did the “carry work” –Cheesebrough had the formality of forcing the ball over O’Neill’s shoulders, and the second must be Milner’s triumph. The young inside forward was harried all the way on a 40-yards run and was almost sandwiched between two defenders when he hooked the ball past O’Neill from inside the area.
Confident
In goal –though he was less put to task than his counter-part –McDonald inspired confidence. Burnley’s margin would have been greater but for several magnificent saves by O’Neill, the best of which was a leap to turn over a long Binns drive. Pilkington (75 minutes) ran in to leave O’Neill helpless from close range and Saunders beat Binns in a heading duel to reduce the arrears four mnutes later. Burnley Res;- McDonald, goal; Simms and Mather, backs; Seith, Wareing and Bennion, half-backs; Cheesebrough, Morris, Williams, Milner, and Pilkington, forwards. Everton Res; O’Neill, goal; Moore and Anderton, backs; Grant, Forshaw, and Melville, half-backs; Harris, Lewis, Saunders, Farrell, and Kearsley, forwards. Referee; Mr. H. Freeman (Preston).

CLASSIC DAY FOR LELLO
April 20, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 1, Luton 1
By Stork
A fair result for both teams missed some reasonably good scoring chances but Luton will not look upon their shares as satisfying. They needed both points to keep them in the promotion race. It was soon seen why Luton are so well placed. They moved nicely and were thrustful; though they missed, some chances. But Everton were also guilty of scorning chances. And it was an error by Leyland which enabled Luton to produce the equalizer. If Everton enjoyed a spell, of attack, Luton replied in similar manner so that we had to share our ovation between the teams. The football was open the ball being swept to all parts of the ground with great accuracy, so that respectively defences often had to close their ranks and both goalkeepers had good saves to make. Baynham, perhaps was the busier of the two but I will not forget Leyland’s save from Turner. Regarding Luton’s goal. It seemed to me that Turner’s intended centre turned into a shot and Leyland although he made contact could only edge the ball to the feet of Davies who had nothing more to do than tap the ball over the line. Thus Buckle’s goal scored, at the eight minute was negative. Hickson and Eglington laid the foundation for this success, Eglington in particularly for he sped past Leslie Jones as though he was standing still and then slipped the ball over to Buckle who flicked it into the net with hesitation. I do not think I have ever seen Lello in such commanding mood. Whatever he did was correct, in attack or defence, and his “feeling” of his forwards was classical. Lindsay was another artist, and the forward line often moved sweetly. The game was so interesting that no one left the ground until the final whistle.
• Burnley res 3, Everton Res 1
• Napier 3, Everton “B” 4
• Netherton 1, Everton “C” 6

NO SIGN OF END OF SEASON FEELING
April 20, 1953. The Luton News
Town and Everton Share Points In Hard Fight
By Chiltern
Everton 1, Luton Town 1
There was not the slightest sign that this football season is nearly done in this rip-rearing, all-action match watched by nearly 33,000 at Goodison Park on Saturday. Although the Town failed in their aim, which was to life two points, they could be well satisfied with the result, for they found Everton a hard nut to crack and, on the form they produced, few Second Division teams could have avoided defeat against them. Everton confirmed the impression they left at Luton earlier in the season –that they are one of the most capable teams in the Second Division. Puzzle is why they have not made a better showing in the League, though part of the cause could be that they concentrated on their Cup effort that came close to taking them to Wembley. This was a match in which fortunes swayed disconcertingly. The Town made one of their brisk starts and might easily have been a goal ahead in the first minute during a sweeping attack. Inter-passing by Davies and Turner, left the latter with the ball in a position from which a centre could be made. He lifted the ball across and it glanced wide of Pye’s head. With such a beginning, it looked as if the Town would make the running, but their ideas had to be re-adjusted when Everton drew first blood in the eight minute. Eglington made a speedy run during which he rounded Jones (L.) and pulled the ball back for Buckle to blaze it high into the net from about six yards out. For some minutes after this, there was heavy work for the Town defence in stemming the eager Everton forwards of whom Eglington was always thrustful and dangerous and Hickson always chasing and looking for the half-chance.
Then The Equaliser
Apart from a hard drive by Davies that Leyland caught, the play, and the middle line compared favourably with that of Everton which was also one of their strong points. Although worried at times by the directness of Buckle, Pemberton came through more successfully than did Jones (L), who never really mastered their tricky speedy Eglington. In attack, the Town moved smoothly at times in midfield, but they had not so much punch as the Everton forwards. Most of the marksmanship came from urner, who did well and, with Davies forward a thrustful wing. Micthell had quite a good match, too, and would have been even more successful with more support from Watkins who often seemed out of touch. Obviously, part of the Everton tactics was to keep Pye subdued, and they managed his to a large extent through the close marking of Jones (T.E). Yet the skill of the centre forward was always apparent, and he did much of the successful scheming, with the result that he did no often look likely to add to his goals tally. Everton; Leyland, goal; Clinton and Lindsay, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, and Eglington, forwards. Luton Town; Baynham, goal; Jones and Pemberton, backs; Morton, Owen, and Shanks, half-backs; Davies, Turner, Pye, Watkins, and Mitchell, forwards. Referee; Mr. B.T. Flanagan, Sheffield.

A GRAND GAME
April 20, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
I don’t think any club made a better “buy” than Luton Town when they signed Jesse Pye at a bargain price, for this former Wolverhampton forward has helped his club keep in the race for promotion, but I am afraid their bid failed on the greensward of Goodison Park, where they could only win a point. Personally the score did not greatly trouble me, for I saw enough without a goal to send me home entirely satisfied with a fine game of football. Of course I know that goals are the very salt of the game but there was so much good in the field that it would not have mattered to me had there been no goal. There were two one of which should never have been, for Leyland made a present to Davies and Luton. The play was joyous, incorporating well conceived movements and many goalmouth thrills with individuals standing out in bold relief. I have sat out some dull games this season, but this one held the attention of everyone until the final whistle.
No Fluke
As to the goals, Leyland erred when he failed to clear Turner’s centre-cum-shot and the ball dropped at Davies’s feet and he popped it into the net. There was no fluke about Buckle’s goal, for he took Eglington’s centre and cleverly flicked it away from Baynham. If Everton had a fault it was that they did not always go for the ball and at times were inclined to over-do the pass which allowed the opposition to step in and take the ball but otherwise there was little wrong with this game. Hickson found Owen too good in the air for him just as Pye was generally mastered by Tom Jones, but you could see his method of welding the line. He had able lieutenants alongside him in Watkins and Turner, but the most lively Town forward was Davies, who had the Gillick-like ability to turn up in the most unexpected places-he was at centre-forward when he scored his goal and at inside-right when he gave Leyland one of his most difficult saves. Another outstanding personality of this attractive game was Cyril Lello, the perfect half-back.
Luton’s Worry
His delivery of the ball to a colleague was mathematically correct, and his defence sharp and incisive. His link-up with Eglington and Parker was one of Luton’s big worries, while his penchant for coming through as a forward often had the Town defence caught napping. Another outstanding Everton player was Lindsay, one of Everon’s best buys. Hickson’s football is improving but he met a very capable centre half back in Owen, who more often than not got the better of Dave in the air.

DEATH OF FORMER EVERTON PLAYER
April 21, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Alan Grenyer, the former Everton and England left half back died at his home in North Shields yesterday, aged 60. Grenyer, who began his football career with North Shields and later returned as trainer to the club for twenty-five years, was an Everton player for thirteen seasons. He played for England against Wales in the Victory International of 1920.

EVERTON FINALE
April 21, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton play their last home Second Division match tomorrow evening when Lincoln City are visitors to Goodison Park. The Blues have another game the semi-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup, at Anfield tomorrow week, and if they win that may be at home in the final against Tranmere Rovers, the draw for which has yet to be made. tomorrow’s match however, winds up their home Football League programme, and looks likely to provide them with a win. Lincoln occupy a rather undistinguished position in the table and have won but one away game all season. That was as long ago as September 1, when they were victorious at Blackburn. They are, however, not too easy a side to beat and on eight occasions have managed to take a point from away engagements. All things considered, Lincoln have not done too badly in their first season’s return to the higher sphere. They never had any great hopes of cutting a big dash, despite making a very promising start. So long as they can keep out of trouble and make a reasonably good showing, they are content. They have done that this winter. Their attack is quite a useful one, with centre forward Andy Graver and inside men Whittle and Garvie always likely to pop up with a goal or two. The defence is also as consistent as the average club and wityh comparatively few changes, having been made in Linclon’s line-out this season, there is good team spirit and all-round understanding.

YOUNG PLAYERS IN EVERTON ATTACK
April 22, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Farrell Makes League Debut
By John Peel
The former England Schoolboy international inside-left Alec Farrell, who signed professional forms for Everton on his seventeenth birthday last month, will make his League debut today in Everton’s Second Division match against Lincoln City at Goodison Park. Farrell, for whom a brilliant future has been predicted, is a well-built player with exceptional ball-control. He is a native of West Kirby. The Everton attack will also include eighteen year-old Eric Mayers, who scored twice on his previous first team appearance against Bury week ago. Another change in the attack is Cummins for Fielding at inside right, in the defence Moore comes in at right back for Clinton (pulled groin muscle), the team being;- Leyland; Moore, Lindsay; Farrell (P), Jones, Lello; Mayers, Cummins, Hickson, Farrell (A), Eglington.

Mather shone in Reserves

April 22, 1953 Burnley express

Burnley Reserves (2) 3, Everton Reserves 1

Everton's forwards were forceful until they approached near the goal and then lack of punch and a Burnley defence fortified by the experienced Mather, nullified their efforts. Mather had an outstanding game, setting an example the finer arts —positional play, intelligent distribution and sound clearances under pressure. Bobby Selth maintained his promise, and recently introduced Jack Bennion—whilst a little unsure in defence—did much in attack. Burnley's first two goals were engineered by him. For the first Milner did the "carry work' —CHEESEBROUGH had the formality of forcing the ball over O'Neill's shoulder, and the second must be MILNER'S triumph. The young inside-forward was harried all the way on a 40-yards run and was almost "sandwiched" between two defenders when he hooked the ball past O'Neill from inside the area.

CONFIDENT

In goal though he was less put to the task than his counterpart—McDonald Inspired confidence. Burnley's margin would have been greater but for several magnificent saves by O'Neill, the best of which was a leap to turn over a long Binns drive. PILKINGTON minutes) ran to leave O'Neill helpless from close - range and SAUNDERS beat Binns in a heading duel reduce the arrears four minutes later. Burnley Reserves: McDonald: Binns. Mather. Selth. Waring. Benniin, Cheesebrough. Morris. Williams. Milner Pilington. Everton Reserves: O'Neill; Moore. Anderton. Grant. Melville: Harris. Lewis. Saunders Farrell. Kearley. Referee: Mr. H. Freeman Nelson (Preston).

EVERTON AT RUNCORN
April 22, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Goals Plentiful
Runcorn 2, Everton X1 7
The visit of Everton to Runcorn last night for Runcorn player Lightfoot benefit match attracted a crowd of 3,520 spectators. Alec Lennon of Ellemsere Port, was included in the Runcorn team. There was no lack of thrills and plenty of goals in a struggle in which Everton were the cleverer combination. Runcorn’s goal fell in the first few minutes and from that time onwards the issue was never in doubt. The struggle produced two different types of football, Everton’s superior teamwork showing up against the more robust tactics of the Cheshire League side. Wainwright (2), Lewis (2), R. Saunders, Easthope, and Harris scored for Everton and Williams and Reynolds for Runcorn. O’Neill, Lindley and Wainwright were the pick of the Everton formation, Lennon and Reynolds did well for Runcorn.

MISCHIEF BY THE LINCOLN IMPS
April 23, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 0, Lincoln City 3
By Leslie Edwards
A somnolent Everton were slowly and painlessly put to death in a football sense, by Lincoln City at Goodison Park last night. And the greatest Lmp of them all was little Whittle, a inside left who scarcely put a foot wrong –or a pass. More difficult to appreciate than the score was the fact that this was only Lincoln’s ninth win of the season, and their second in an away match. They almost sauntered to triumph, none more so than right half-back Wright, whose sure touch with the ball often from a standing start, supplied the kind of football we used to expect, and got from that Everton of long ago. True, Everton had two young men of inexperience, Mayers and Alec Farrell in their attack, but this had little on the havoc Lincoln caused among Everton players of repute. All went well for Everton for 10 minutes; then the crowd of 25,000 were treated to two goals so well constructed and taken that we almost gasped. First Finch and Fraver united in instant passes to give Birch the heading chance he took with a grateful nod; then eight minutes after the interval Whittle cracked the ball in impudently after Munroe had done the heavy spade work and Graver had turned the ball back for the scorer’s pleasure. The third goal came two minutes later from one of referee. A Murdoch’s many excellent decisions. Lello was palpably guilty of obstruction near where the penalty box line meets the goal-line. The kick was taken, retaken on the referee’s command and out of the flurry of a half clearance Birch tapped the ball over the line.
Even More Impressive
More impressive than Lincoln’s winning as the way they won. Their left wing pair were splendid even allowing that Moore had only just returned to the team and Graver though held almost continually showed that vital spark of centre forward inspiration at disconcerting moments. Lincoln timed their passes with a fast ball to the last inch; Everton were too retrogressive especially Cummins and this fault, running concurrently with some first-rate Lincoln defence meant that Everton finished their home programme properly at sea. One of the few shots Hickson managed struck the bar, but Munroe too, did that and there was more than a semblance of a penalty award, I thought, in a Lello tackle on Birch when that player was well inside the penalty area and “lined up” for goal. Probably the most encouraging thing for Everton was the work of young Alec Farrell whose debut showed great promise. He has the build commands a strong shot and knows enough about the game to use the ball well. It does seem that he will have to be sharper in his movements and give all his passes more bite to find their mark. The lad showed intelligence, too, and positional sense which all but brought him a goal. When it seemed certain he would score he shot too straight and Lowery, who had little enough to worry about all through, brought off the save. Whittle “killed” the lively ball beautifully and spread it about him like a master. Difficult to say which was more responsible for Lincoln’s victory –Whittle or Wright. The half-back spent much time late in the game in a small semi-centre half position where he seemed capable of picking up the ball at will.
Next Time
With such a team Lincoln cannot go far wrong next season. Thus; their first league visit to Goodison Park came as the final shock in a season which has never been short of them. For Mayers whose two goals debut set everyone taking things did not come off. He showed his big shot but took an early blow to the body and was never much in the picture as he was against Bury. Lindsay considering the weight of work he carried and Jones because Lincoln came at him in unison in a succession of lovely moves had to play well to keep the margin to three goals. For the rest I am afraid it was not a very happy occasion. Lincoln were always a bit too good.

NO JOY-DAY FOR EVERTON
April 23, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Lincoln Showed Home Side How The Game Should Be Played
Ranger’s Notes
The result of Everton’s home game against Lincoln City last night doesn’t tell half the story, though it gives you some indication, if you didn’t see the game, that this was not one of Everton’s snappiest performances. For the first ten minutes Everton played like prospective champions. Unfortunately, nobody wins honours with ten-minutes displays. You’ve got to keep it up for 90 minutes. After their bright opening Everton faded away and let Lincoln dominate the proceedings. This was not a very happy note for Everton’s last home game, remembering that Lincoln were a Third Division team a year ago, and that prior to last night they had won but nine games all season, and only one on their opponents ground. It wasn’t that Everton dawdled along because this was just an end of the season game with nothing vital at stake. They tried hard enough. But they weren’t good enough. And that bolds true even if you want to claim some allowance for the fact that they had two youngsters in the team.
Best Forwards.
Strictly speaking you can demand allowance only for one of them, for 17-year-old Farrell making his senior debut was Everton’s best forward and the sole one who could hit the ball with power and accuracy or ever looked like scoring. He almost skimmed the woodwork on four occasions with strong shots, and went reasonably close on a couple of other occasions. He also showed good positional sense. His display was all the more promising because his knee bothered him all the second half, and is now so swollen that he will not be able to play again this season. Hickson tried hard, but had little support, and rarely got the better of a grand centre-half in Emery. You could almost completely wipe off the rest of the forwards as a vital force. One could not expect too much from 18-year-old part-timer Mayers. A week ago he had burst on the Everton firmament like a meteor, scoring two great goals and shaping well all round. Last night he had two good shots topped or otherwise mis-hit the rest, put most of his passes to the wrong man and generally had a night as far opposed to his previous good showing as was possible. He need not be discouraged about this. He was just unlucky. There is good football in him, I think and time will bring it out. He may also have been affected by a blow received early in the game. Eglington had a bad match. Times without number he dribbled right up to an opponent and then let him kick the ball away. To Lincoln it must have seemed like taking toffee apples off a bady. But he did have hard lines when one of his shots was kicked off the line.
Passes Went Wrong
Most of Cummin’s best dribbling was done when he was going away from the Lincoln goal. When he was going towards it, which was too seldom he sometimes forgot to take the ball. His shooting was negligible and though he made a few good passes, far too many were rank bad ones. This was his worst display of ineffective “lateral shuttling.” Farrell worked tremendously hard, as he always does, and generally used the ball well, but Lello, like Moore had an off game, though he saved one certain goal by kicking off the line. This left Lindsay, stylish and polished, and Jones solid and reliable, the best of the defence. Leyland made one or two slips but otherwise did well and had no chance with the shots which scored. The trouble with Everton for a long time has been their inconsistency. They have encouraged hopes with some excellent displays then dropped back again to mediocrity. Last night’s was not their worst exhibition but it was a very undistinguished and depressing one.
Lincoln’s Balance
Lincoln were infinitely the better side in all respects. They had balance, accuracy, smoothness, understanding and shooting power. They played like a team from start to finish. They were quicker on the ball and their combination was almost machine like in its precisions. In Wright, Whittle, Graver and Birch with Finch in the first half they had man who excelled in everything that goes to make a balanced side. Birch got their first goal after 20 minutes with a wonderful header, Whittle the second at 53 minutes with a jet-propelled drive, while the third come two minutes later when Everton took up bad defensive positions for an indirect free-kick and Birch tapped the ball home as gently as any mother putting her first-born to sleep. As a farewell performance to the season this was something to forget, unless you happen to come from Lincoln.
Birmingham’s Team
Gilbert Merrick, the England goalkeeper, returns to the Birmingham team against Everton on Saturday. This is the only change. Birmingham; Merrick; Hall, Green; Bannister, Ferris, Warhurst; Stewart, Boyd, Lane, Murphy, Cox.

A KINDLY THOUGHT
April 23, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Here is one of the most pleasing letters I have received for a long time. It comes from a reader who conceals his identity under the pen-name of True Evertonian.”
He is also a true sportsman. He writes;-
“I have been thinking since reading your article asking for vocal support for Liverpool on Saturday that if all Everton supporters would go to Anfield and do their bit towards trying to keep Liverpool in their rightful place it would b a good idea. The Goodison and Anfield roars combined should go a long way to help the Reds to win. It is bad enough to have Everton out of their rightful sphere. We don’t want Liverpool down with us. So what about it, Evertonians? Let us go and help to show what a good roar can do to help a team. This is not the time for smart wise crack from Evertonians about Liverpool’s “rightful place” which some would say is to be where Everton are. This reader sets the right note. We went both our senior clubs in the First Division. It is a nice though that Evertonians with the proper sporting spirit and pride in their city are ready to do their best to help Liverpool.

EVERTON’S TASK
April 24, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton, away to Birmingham have no need to worry unduly about the result which is a happy state of mind to be in. Birmingham have a certain amount of incentive, as they have just a faint chance of finishing in the first four which would bring them extra talent money. At one time the Midlanders looked as though they might make a bid for promotion, but since their struggle with Tottenham in the sixth round of the Cup and a subsequently crop of injuries they have slipped back. Their last ten games have brought them only eight points and have included three defeats out of five home games. Everton in their best Cup-tie form could give Birmingham a stern run for their money. In the form they showed against Lincoln on Wednesday they might be fated not to see which way Birmingham went. Surely they can hardly be as bad as that again –or can they? Tantalizing and aggravating though they have been at times they can be good, and it would be nice if they could finish the season’s programme with an away victory. Clinton returns in place of Moore, but Lindsay is not fit, and Rankin deputises. Cummins is dropped in favour of Fielding, Parker takes over from Farrell who will not be fit to play again this season, and Buckle supplants Mayers. Birmingham; Merrick; Hall, Green; Bannister, Ferris, Warhurst; Stewart, Boyd, Lane, Murphy, Cox. Everton; Leyland; Clinton, Rankin; Farrell, Jones, Lello; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, Eglington.

GALLANT FIGHT AFTER CLINTON INJURY
April 25, 1953. The Liverpool Football Echo
Hickson’s Grand Work Put Colour Into Everton’s Study In Black and White
Birmingham 4, Everton 2
Everton put up a galliant fight, and at times had the City seriously worried but the Midlanders were more direct side, and had greater shooting power. Everton never gave up, but had to yield to a side who took every opportunity of scoring. Hickson was a source of worry and should have added to his goal tally. Birmingham City; Merrick, goal; Hall and Green, backs; Bannister, Ferris, and Warhurst, half-backs; Stewart, Boyd, Lane, Murphy, and Cox, forwards. Everton; Leyland, goal; Clinton and Rankin, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Hickson, Parker and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. W. Bowers, (Huddersfield).
Everton had several changes from the team beaten by Lincoln City, at Goodison Park on Wednesday. Everton played in the secondary colours, black and white. Both goalkeepers were in action in the first few minutes for Farrell tested Merrick with a fast rising shot which England goalkeeper caught confidently, and then Murphy tried his hand against Leyland with a low shot which the Everton goalkeeper saved at the second attempt. Jones another who was knife like in his tackling, once came right out to the wing to kick a ball away from Lane. A header, by Boyd saw Leyland pluck the ball from under the bar and then Murphy passed well outside. A long clearance set Hickson off. He flung a pass to Buckle whose short centre seemed to be handled by Green but the referee paid little or no attention to Buckle’s appeal. Lane was all over the place and he was uinstrumental in winning a free kick from Rankin over on the far side. The free kick caused little trouble. The nearest approach to a goal came to Everton when a Clinton-Fielding move ended in Fielding making a quick pass to Hickson who headed the ball down and shot immediately, but Merrick made a marvelous save. As the ball came into the Everton goalmouth from the left, lane breasted it down to Body who shot in, in the goalmouth mix up that followed, Stewart rushed in and crashed the ball into the net. Merrick was again as sure as a flip fielder when he leapt up to take a ball from the Everton right wing. Leyland nipped out at the right moment to collect a ball that Lane was chasing close to goal. Buckle, after beating Warhurst dropped the ball into the Birmingham penalty area, but Hickson was a fraction late. Murphy, getting a chance to shoot, put everything he had behind the drive which hit Clinton on the back of the head and knocked him out. He was taken behind the goalmouth for attention and was off the field for a couple of minutes. The Everton equalizer came after the 35th minute. It was as nice a goal as you could wish to see, and five players were concerned. It started with Farrell, and went on to Parker and Buckle. Finally, as Fielding’s centre passed over Hall’s head, Hickson rushed in and headed the ball down before lobbng it over Merrick’s head into the net. Ferris, the Birmingham centre half, was injured when he and Hickson went for the ball together, but his injury was not serious. Just before the interval Clinton went off. He had apparently not got over his head injury and no doubt was dazed. Looking pale, he was led off the field by Charlie Leyland. Lello went to right back and Fielding to left half. Hickson made a good attempt to give Everton the lead, but his shot taken on the turn, passed over.
Half-time; Birmingham City 1, Everton 1.
Everton resumed without Clinton, were confined to defence for some minutes. Leyland had to run out and punch away a lot near goal. Within five minutes of the restart Everton were ahead and it was Eglington who scored. He took a pass from Hickson, and although Merrick came out the shot struck him, rose into the air and dropped into the net. Three minutes later Birmingham were on equal terms again, Boyd head into the goalmouth. The ball was pushed out and seemed to strike Jones and rebound into the net. Leyland tried hard to prevent it passing over the line, without success. Everton might have gone ahead when Parker pushed the ball through to Hickson, only a matter of 10 yards out, but be blazed the ball outside. Considering their handicap Everton doing well, and a lovely pass by Fielding to Parker, who shot, was readily saved by Merrick. Clinton return after 64 minutes and went to outside right. Everton had been on the attack for some time and Merrick had to save from Buckle, Hickson and Eglington. Leyland made another good save when he parried a fierce drive by Cox and then punched the ball clear. A free kick for Birmingham saw a Warhurst shot saved, but the Everton goalkeeper was eaten by Boyd, who scored after 70 minutes. Another free kick to Everton caused trouble to Birmingham before they got out of the difficulty. When Lane from the wing slipped the ball inside, Boyd pushed the ball to Murphy, who scored in the 83rd minute. Final; Birmingham 4, Everton 2. Attendance 17,000.

EVERTON RES V PRESTON RES
April 25, 1953. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton Reserves;- O’Neill, goal; Moore and Anderton, backs; Grant, Woods and Melville, half-backs; McNamara, Wainwright, Saunders, Potts, and Easthope, forwards. Preston N.E. Reserves; Gooch, goal; Hepplewhite and Wilson, backs; Parkinson, Martinson, and Robertson, half-backs; Foster, Beattie, Higham, Jones and Kaile, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. McLoughlin. Preston central League leaders turned out a strong side at Goodison Park. Everton showed the better tactics and were a constant danger in Wilson and Hepplewhite. The Blues took a well deserved lead in the eight minute through Saunders. Just before the interval, Gooch save an brilliant shot from Saunders. Half-time; Everton Reserves 1, Preston North End Reserves nil.

EVERTON FOUGHT ON WELL
April 27, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
Birmingham 4, Everton 2
By Stork
Everton were a much more competent force at Birmingham than against Lincoln City and the score flatters the Midland club. Further Everton were without Clinton for over twenty minutes. Birmingham are noted for their hard tackling and here they played as though promotion was the prize. Yet no one could say there was anything distasteful about their play. There were made fouls; pretty things we could have well done without but nothing of a minor character. Everton took the lead after being in arrears and strangely it was during Clinton’s absence that they made it 2-1. When Clinton came back he had to operate on the wing and that naturally robbed the forward line of its effectiveness. Eventually Birmingham got the upper hand but they were fortunate to win by a two goals margin for there were chances which Everton should have taken. Hickson, for instance blazed the ball at goal when all that was needed was a placed shot and there was ample time to make it. Had he been as calm as when he scored the first Everton goal he could have outwitted Merrick instead of shooting outside. The calm way he took up position and snapped up Fielding’s centre was excellent. At the interval the score was 1-1 but shortly afterwards a round of passing between Hickson and Eglington culminating in the Irishman beating Merrick to give Everton the lead. It was hard going for both teams and Leyland had much work to do and eventually he made a loose push-out and the ball went to Boyd, who turned it back into goal. Final Murphy made it four. Birmingham were the more forceful side and had the greater number of chances, but no one can deny that Everton fought well. Hickson was a worry to Ferris and Fielding as a half-back did splendidly. Buckle was all over the place seeking openings and made a few shots without getting full power behind the ball. Lello as a back did not lose any prestige. Stewart scored Birmingham’s first goal and Boyd the two which followed.

FIGHTING EVERTON
April 27, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Everton’s game against Birmingham City was no milk and water affair, for there was as much “bite” about it as many a promotion match. Fouls there were in plenty, petty affairs mostly, but there was at times a little too much robust play, and for no reason whatever, for there was nothing to win except the bonus. Here was a game that could have been an occasion for producing the best of the soccer arts, but Birmingham decided to make it something harder, and were often involved in a spate of free kicks. Otherwise it was a grand game to send the people away regretting that the season was at an end. Everton played for a quarter of the game without Clinton who was struck on the head by a vicious drive, and although he resumed he ultimately had to leave the field, and was absent for 16 minutes of the second half and then returned as a winger. Yet it was while he was absent that Everton showed their fighting quality and actually took the lead. Three days previously Everton had been beaten by Lincoln City when they looked a tired team. At St. Andrews they were full of fighting and endeavour and Birmingham had to battle all the way for their success in fact, they were never two goals better than Everton who, even when Clinton was absent gave Birmingham plenty to think about.
Too Eager
Hickson, who had scored a grand first goal was too eager to tear away the back of the net from a few yards out with Merrick at his mercy. A little calmness then and a placed shot would have left the England goalkeeper helpless. There were other “possible” for the taking but they were allowed to slip by. Birmingham a big, bustling tam opened the play with close passing and Everton looked the better side but the City altered their style, flung the ball about and, with only ten fully fit men, Everton had naturally to pay more attention to defence than would have been the case had they been at full strength. It was a hard game, with plenty of goal incidents, innumerable saves, mostly by Leyland and one or two by Merrick, who was particularly good with high balls. He was well beaten by Hickson, who was a continual thorn in the flesh of the Birmingham defence by his persistency. It was a Hickson-Eglington pairing which brought about Merrick’s second defeat, yet it was Hickson who missed the chance of the match.

OLD RIVALS MEET AGAIN
April 28, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Liverpool and Everton In Semi-Final Of The Senior Cup
Ranger’s Notes
Everton make three changes, one of them due to injury, for their game against Liverpool in the semi-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup at Anfield tomorrow evening (kick-off 7 o’clock). Liverpool will not choose their side until this evening, but it will be their first team. Everton bring back O’Neill in place of Leyland as goalkeeper, with Lindsay, not fit again, resuming at left back. Clinton has recovered from Saturday’s injury and partners Scot, but Buckle is not fit, so that Mayers gets another chance in the first team. This will be his third appearance in the last fortnight. Elsewhere the side is the same as that which played against Birmingham City. The Liverpool Senior Cup is probably football’s most handsome trophy. It is certainly much larger and more ornate than the football Association Cup and add grace and distinction to any club’s boardroom. Everton have not yet won this trophy in post war football. Liverpool have carried it off five times including the past two years and nothing would please them more than to complete a hat-trick tomorrow. Everton, however always endeavours to produce their best against the old “enemy” and the result of this game cannot be foretold with any degree of certainty. This should be a close and entertaining game. There are many who have averred during recent months that Everton are a better team than Liverpool. Liverpool followers naturally dispute this. Occasionally caustic and disillusioned supporters of both clubs have been heard to declare after a particular disappointing display, that Tranmere Rovers could whack either of them. Under extreme provocation it has even been hinted that the Rovers would be more than a match for a joint side from both. Though games between Everton and Liverpool a generation or two ago were not endowed with much friendly feeling during recent years nobody could have wished for more sporting exhibitions.
The First Step
Ernest Edwards (“Bee’s) was the man who took the first step towards killing some of the bitterness of the old rivalry by suggesting that the teams should come out side by side for those local derby matches. The clubs agreed, and as time went on much of the old acrimony gave way to better understanding between players and spectators alike. This does not mean that the will to win of either team is any less keen on that account. Nothing pleases Everton more than to beat Liverpool and the only thing that cheers Liverpool more than a victory over Everton is two victories. The winners tomorrow will meet Tranmere Rovers in the final. If Liverpool get through the game against Tranmere will take place next Monday as Liverpool leave on Tuesday for their American tour. Should Everton get through, the final may be arranged for Monday at Goodison Park, which would mean the Liverpool County Youth game against Eire being transferred elsewhere. Everton; O’Neill; Clinton, Lindsay; Farrell, Jones, Lello; Mayers, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, Eglington.
Collection Appeal
A collection is being taken tomorrow on behalf of little Susan Humphries the two year old girl who sustained such serious injuries, including the loss of both legs and on arm, when run over by a motor vehicle recently. Liverpool are hoping to set up a record for any match collection of this kind, and ask you to contribute as generously as possible.

LIVERPOOL UNCHANGED
April 29, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Liverpool will field an unchanged side against Everton in tonight’s Senior Cup at Anfield (seven o’clock). The team that saved the club at the last hurdle thus gets the opportunity to add another Senior Cup success to the five post-war ones which have gone Liverpool’s way. With Everton also have their first team on duty with the exception of the injured Buckle, and the weather looking more promising at the moment of writing there should be a big crowd at Anfield tonight. Liverpool; Ashcroft; Lambert, Spicer; Taylor, Hughes, Pasiley; Payne, Jones, Bimspson, Smyth, Liddell. Everton; O’Neill; Clinton, Lindsay; Farrell, Jones, Lello; Mayers, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, Eglington.
Everton Tour
Everton will play two matches in Ireland next month. They meet representatives Eire side in Dublin on May 6 and then, after returning to Liverpool, cross again to Belfast to oppose Clyde, the Scottish club, in a charity game on May 14. Everton have also had an invitation to tour the Canary Islands, but have not yet decided whether to accept.

EVERTON WIN MATCH THAT HAD EVERYTHING
April 30, 1953. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Liverpool 0, Everton 2
Those who braved the cold wind and rain to see this semi-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup at Anfield last night were well repaid, for they saw a really top-class game of football on a ground that ultimately became as heavy as lead. I have seen many league games which could not come up to the standard of this encounter, for it had everything – goals, sound football movements and no sign of the end of the season weariness which so often comes at this stage. The first half was particularly attractive because there was a levelness about it which kept the crowd on tender-hooks. First it was one side on the attack, then the other with the respective defences, battling to withstand the many calls made upon them, so it, was not surprising that there was no score at the interval. Hughes had such command of the middle that the Everton inside forwards could not get a real tilt as Ashcroft; while Jones (T.) looked after Bimpson, but came under the ban of the spectators because of the way he swept the ball into touch under the slightest provocation. Naturally there were some near misses during the first half and each goalkeeper had saves to make but in the main the defences were in command and so it want on until the half stage was reached. The enthusiasm was intense. The rival crowds cheered their men on and they responded with such a will that the game never lost its hold of them. It was pretty obvious that the side winning the first goal would take the honour of appearing in the final against Tranmere Rovers but who it would be was not known until 18 minutes after the interval when an angular shot by Parker went into the Liverpool net off Ashcroft’ arm.
Liverpool Hit Back
Before this O’Neill had saved a ferocious drive by Liddell and Parker had netted but was palpably offside. Liverpool did not lie down to the reverse in fact they hit back with such power that it was amazing that they did not drew level for twice Jones was on the fringe of scoring until O’Neill came along to foil him. Perhaps at this point it became a little to one-sided for no one could deny that Everton were now the better side, more progressive more punishing near goal, and but for a magnificent save by Ashcroft Farrell would have put his name on the scorecard. Payne also netted but the whistle had gone a few seconds previously. There was still only a goal in it, but Everton looked the more likely side to take others and their second goal was the result of some quick thinking by Fielding. He saw Ashcroft of goal in anticipation of Fielding middling the ball but the Everton man neatly lobbed the ball over the goalkeeper’s head and no one had fallen back to cover the goalkeeper. This was a minute from the end and a fitting conclusion to a really fine game.
Bootle Cup-Side
Bootle meet Everton “A” in the final of the George Mahon Cup at Goodison park tonight (kick-off 6.45) R. Arnold will be at right full back.Cookson switching to right half. Team; Hurst; R. Arnold, Higgins; M. Cookson, Harrison, Walsh; Fitzpatrick, Wilson, Vincent, Woan, Swaine.

THE RETAINED LIST
April 30, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Full time players retained (30);-
Leyland, O;Neill, Clinton, Moore, Sutherland, Tansey (J), Anderton, Lindsay, Rankin, Donovan, Farrell, Grant, Rea, Jones, Woods, Lello, Melville, Buckle, McNamara, Fielding, Wainwright, Potts, Hickson, Lewis, Saunders (R), Cummins, Parker, Meagan, Eglington, Easthope.
Part-timers retained (7);-
Dunlop, Heyes, Mayers, Kirby, Farrell, Vizard, Thomas
Service players retained (8);-
Birch, Forshaw, Harris (James), Molyneux, Rabone, Tansey (G), Tomlinson
Players open to transfer are Saunders (George), Harris (Joe), Cross and Fletcher.
Free transfer have been granted to Darlington, Kearsley, Taylor and Lindley. Lindley was recently appointed manager coach of Swindon Town where he takes up his duties shortly.

A GREAT GAME
April 30, 1953. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Last night’s Senior Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Everton was worth every penny of the £3,320 which the 32,070 spectators paid. If both teams had served up football of the same rip-roaring character every week this past season, one of them would have challenged strongly for promotion and the other would not have been saving itself from relegation by the skin of its teeth. Maybe there’s something in this “Liverton” rivalry that makes them rise above themselves when the old enemy is there to be vanquished. The Blues see red, the Reds shed their blues, and the respective supporters go away happy convinced that with a bit of luck their favourites after all are going to carry all before them next season. Sandwich between young Mayers rasping shot in the first minute, and Fieldings canny goal in the last minute, there were almost enough thrills and blood-stirring incidents t write a book about, never mind a column.
Great Stuff
This was great stuff. No wonder followers of both sides were asking when the final whistle went “Why don’t we have this every week?” As Manager Cliff Britton said, however, the side which plays a smashing game week by week hasn’t yet been evolved. And Everton don’t have the incentive every, match of crowing over Liverpool –or vice versa. The underfoot conditions were so bad, with a treacherous surface and greasy ball, that it would have been no surprise had this game been just another match. Instead, it kept the crowd on tenterhooks throughout the 90 minutes. Just to say there was never a dull moment is a vast understatement. This was tip-top football played at tremendous speed by two sides who looked as good as any I have seen all season and infinitely better than the majority if Saturday’s Wembley final is as good as this it will go down in history as one of the best ever.
Craft and Speed
Every player on the field gave a splendid display, mixing the finer arts and graces of the game with terrific determination and pace. After a fairly level first half Everton became the dominating side for a good portion of the second half. Then Liverpool hit back and promised an equalizer, but finally Everton came again and got a second goal to do the it’s and cross the t’s of a victory which makes some of their League displays seem more difficult to understand than ever. It is impossible to mention every one of the 22 players individually. All deserved praise, but some earned greater commendation than others. Amongst the top-notches in this respect were Hughes, who on this showing is back to his best. Yet, paradoxical though it may seem. Hickson also deserves equal appreciation. The stylish Lindsay and reliable Clinton shared defensive honours with Lambert and Spicer, Tommy Jones after overcoming a spasm of kicking-out early on took top marks and kept Bimpson in almost complete subjection, Farrell was clever, hard-working and effective. Taylor in many ways, was brilliant and O’Neill has rarely played better.
Blues Attacks Best
Ashcroft had not much chance with Parker’s terrific goal at the 58th minute from an almost impossible angle, but paid the penalty of departing from beneath the cross-bar when Fielding lobbed a 30-yarders over his head with almost the last kick of the match. Everton’s attack had better all round balance than; Liverpool’s Parker at times showed a surprising turn of speed, Fielding schemed in telling fashion yet still showed shot shyness when some good chances presented themselves and young Mayers had a grand game, even if a few of his passes sometimes went to the wrong man. He hit the ball hard and true, and showed commendable tenacity in chasing every chance and in his keen tackling. Eglington shone on many occasions and was unlucky with some splendid shots. Liddell and Jones were Liverpool’s best forwards. Jones almost got a couple of goals.
Final Arrangements
Football is full of ifs and but’s. That in nine-tenths of its charm and appeal. Their would be no talk of declining gates if spectators could rely on displays of this calibre every Saturday. I should also be spared letters from unhappy followers who vow that they will never darken the doors of Anfield or Goodison again, in short as you may perhaps have gathered by now, this was a thrilling game, which had everything the most exacting could demand. Everton now meet Tranmere Rovers in the final at Goodison Park on Saturday week, May 9. I said on Tuesday that on occasion Everton followers have been heard to express views that the Blues couldn’t beat Tranmere. On last night’s showing nobody will envy the Rovers their task in the final. Everton could beat almost anybody if they always played like this. But with the customary cussedness of form in confounding prematch views, Tranmere may run Everton far close than would seem after the Blue’ well-merited victory over the Anfielders.