Everton Independent Research Data
ROKERITES ARE IMPROVING
February 1, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton journey to Roker Park to tackle a Sunderland side which at last appears to be making a determined effort to preserve its First Division states. After a spell of ten games which yielded only two points and saw them firmly entrenched in next to bottom place, the Roker team has latterly been playing better, particularly at home. Their last five engagements at Roker Park have produced three wins –two of them against such powerful defensive sides as Burnley and Aston Villa –and a draw, their only defeat being by Wolves on New Year’s Day. This improvement however, has lifted the Wearsiders only one place in the table. Portsmouth who are now 21st are one point behind, but have three matches in hand. A fortnight ago, Sunderland ended a long period of nonsuccess on opponents grounds by recording their first away win at Blackpool.
Fleming’s Goals
Both goals in that match were scored by centre-forward Charlie Fleming who has obtained 18 of the 45 goals credited to the side and exactly three times as many as the second on the list, Len Shackleton. In November, Sunderland expended a hefty sum on Don Revie the former Manchester City player, who they hoped, would take some of the scoring weight off Fleming. So far however, he has made only three appearances out of a possible 13 in League and Cup due to injury. Although 60 goals have already gone into the Sunderland net, their changes in defence have not been so frequent as in the front line. Ex-Evertonian Jack Hedley is an ever present at right back a distinction he shares with left-half George Aitken. Goalkeeper Johnny Bollands has missed only one game since taking over from Willie Fraser in the second match of the season. Of the 29 goals scored in 14 home matches no fewer than 17 came in the first four engagements during which they defeated Charlton Athletic 8-1 and Blackpool 5-2. Then came the slump until arrested recently. The Blues are overdue for a win on foreign soil their last being against Manchester United at Old Trafford on October 20. Whether they can do the trick against Sunderland is doubtful. One thing is certain. To have any hope of success they will have to show a big improvement over recent displays both individually and as a team against opposition which while there is any hope left that they can avoid relegation is certain to fight grimly. Sunderland have plenty of star player. The trouble is that they are not clicking simultaneously. Everton must endeavour to see they do not do so tomorrow. Everton; Dunlop; Sutherland, Tansey; Farrell, Donovan, Rea; Payne, Gauld, Harris, Fielding, Eglington.
PAYNE PEPS UP EVERTON FORWARD LINE
February 4, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Sunderland 1, Everton 1
Sunderland; Bollands, goal; Hedley and McDonald, backs; Anderson, Daniel, and Aitkens, half-backs; Bingham, Shackleton, Fleming, Elliott, and Hannigan, forwards. Everton; Dunlop, goal; Sutherland and Tansey, backs; Farrell (captain), Donovan, and Rea, half-backs; Payne, Gauld, Harris, Fielding, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.W. Topliss (Grimsby). Everton were the better combination in the early stages and Payne making his first appearance of the season following the certainly made a good matter with Gauld and Farrell. The pitch was very heavy everywhere except in the top corner and the players had great difficulty in keeping their feet and judging how the ball would come off the muddy surface.
Narrow Escape
Offside against Gauld nuffied another Everton attack ad then the visitors goal had a narrow escape when a long clearance by Hedley helped on its way by Shackleton sent Fleming bore his way through despite being out numbered and after the ball twice struck defenders, Donovan cleared of the line when Fleming’s persistence looked as though it would being a goal. a free kick to Everton just outside the penalty area did not pan out as anticipated for from Farrell’s side kick, Fielding mishit his shot and caused Bolland no anxiety.
Failed By Inches
A grand run by Harris and a low centre from the right looked dangerous but fortunately for Sunderland Gauld just failed by inches to make contact for what would have been a certain goal from two yards range. Shackleton put three successive passes straight to an Everton man then made good use of the fourth to set Bingham going only for the latter centre to be fired high and wide by Hannigan. Sundnerland’s best effort came from a left wing run by Hannagan who centred the ball for Fleming to deliver a first-timer which was bound for the net until Dunlop saved full length at the expensed of a corner.
Everton Penned In
Fleming again showed the truth of his “cannoned” nick-name when he hit another snother from 20 yards which was not more than a foot on the wrong side of the post. Sunderland were shaping better. They were pin pointing their passes were going into the tackle strongly and for some minutes kept Everton pinned in their own half. Gauld had to receive attention for an injury to his right arm after he had fallen heavily but was soon in action again. Donovan was having his work cut out on Fleming but he was getting into the job solidly and twice took the ball almost of the toe of the Sunderland leader. When at last Everton managed to reverse the order of times and on a spot of attacking themselves, Harris was off the mark with a couple of shots and Gauld was over whelmed. Hannagan got a chance after Eglington had been robbed by Hedley and Shackleton had switched the ball over to the left, but his shot was sailed by Dunlop and caused no anxiety.
Hardly A Thrill
The standard of football was very ordinary. The first half hour produced hardly a thrill and though the slippery turf was making things difficult I was by no means the whole of the story. Although Sunderland convinced to do most of the pressing their shooting was poor and on the rare occasions they were on the mark, Dunlop was never in much trouble. The Everton goalkeeper dominated his territory very convincingly never hesitating to come out to take concerned of the situation.
Payne-Fileding Move
On one occasion when Fleming was chasing through after a long ball Dunlop ran three yards out of the penalty area to kick the ball away almost of Fleming’s toe. At the 39th minute a mistake by Hedley opened the way for Everton to take the lead. The ball ran on to Payne at that moment in the inside left position and Payne kicking the ball sideways right into the path of the encoring Fielding enabled the latter to beat Bolland from 18 yards. This seemed to spur Everton on and they kept the home side penned in their own quarters for quite a spell. Farrell, Harris, and Gauld all having shots which were only inches off the angel. Sunderland was still having wretched luck with his passes. For every one that reached colleagues three or four foiled an Everton man. Right on time Harris tried an acute angled shot which Bolland fumbled before clearing. Half-time; Sunderland nil, Everton 1.
Sunderland started the second half as though they had a “roasting” from manager Billy Murray. At any rate there was an improvement upon their first half showing and twice Dunlop had to save smartly from excellent shots from Shackleton. There was an appeal by spectators behind the goal for a penalty when Shackletons was trying to force his way through but the referee waved play on. Everton raised the siege for a few moments with a nice movement which saw Harris finally break through and look a likely scorer until Daniel recovered in fine style to save the situation at the expense of a corner.
A Breakaway
Dunlop was now getting much more work to do. The Everton keeper still dominated his goal area. Another Everton breakaway saw the ball worked three parts the length of the field before Gauld tapped it into the net. Unluckily for Everton the whistle had gone for an offside decision against Payne. At the 55th minute Sunderland equalized through Bingham who got his chance when Donovan taking own goal failed to hook away a ball from the right wing and Bingham darting through at top speed gave Dunlop no chance. Sunderland were now going all out for the lead. Twice Fleming hit the ball hard only a yard off the mark and then Hanngan almost skimmed the bar with a real snorter. Payne was injured inside his own penalty area when Aitken barged into him with unnecessary vigour and laid the winger flat on his back.
Saved By The Bar
Sunderland were now menacing away at a struggling and rather shaky Everton defence. They forced four corners in quick succession and almost netted a goal from one of these when Dunlop trying to punch the ball away, only sent it straight up in the air and Anderson hit the bar. Shackleton was more like his old self. And in one bewildering dribble he beat four opponents in a very confined space before the ball was finally taken from him. Elliott fired inches over the bar, Fleming put one behind and still Sunderland continued to pile on the pressure. They were using their insight and press-weigh in goal area melee it seemed critic a question of how long the harassed Everton defence could hold out. Bingham had a great chance after Shackleton had done all the donkey work to put Sunderland into the lead but he shot very weakly right into Dunlop’s hands from five yards. An Everton breakaway gate their defence a few moments rest. Fielding shot into the side netting from a very narrow angle when Eglington was standing unmarked waiting for the pass. The game was stopped for a moment while the referee spoke to trainer Harry Wright who had been to conversation with Payne. At last Everton forced a corner though nothing came of it. Gauld might have snatched a goal two minutes from the finish but for Hedley retrieving the situation after a job in pass back to McDonald. Official attendance 31,463.
UNDER-DOG CUP ROLE SUITS ME
February 2, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Peter Farrell
Despite the full-scale return to league games this week, the main topic of conversation especially for players and supporters whose clubs are still interested in the Cup has been the fifth round draw, and the possibilities of further progress to the sixth round for our favourities sides. Since the draw quite a number of people have asked me how the lads and I fancy having to oppose the favourities and much publicized Manchester United side. Well, naturally every club like to be drawn at home in the Cup, and in this respect so far Everton have been somewhat fortunate in having the advantage of playing at Goodison in the third and fourth rounds. However, according to the law of average, it was our turn to be drawn away on this occasion, and since he Blues have to travel there is no side left in the Cup against whom I would rather play than Manchester United. This may sound somewhat strange to some fans, in view of Matt Busby’s lad’s amazing consistency and brilliant form this season nevertheless it is an honest opinion as apart from the fact that the Blues have fared fairly well against United in recent seasons, we also know that we are becoming a great side, a fact which should give us that extra incentive to be right on our toes for the full ninety minutes. When we opposed Manchester United early in the season, the Blues were going through a very lean spell from a playing point of view as well as that of collecting points. Yet the fact that we were playing Manchester United (and everyone knows the brand of football those two words embrace) seemed to instore Everton that day at Old Trafford and the Blues gave their greatest display of the season or for many seasons for that matter.
As The Under Dog
I am not suggesting that just because we have done it once we can give a repeat performance. Not many, apart from our own loyal supporters will give us much chance of beating United but then that’s the way I love to enter a Cup-tie as the underdog. One thing is certain when we line out at Old Trafford a fortnight today, we will know that not only are we expecting the finest football side in the country, also that will allow us to play football as well. United are a hard tackling side but they are also the cleanest and fairest tackling outfit against whom I have played this season. Again some have mentioned to me that in view of the manner in which the Blues have struggled through the two previous rounds against Blackburn Rovers and West Ham, we have little chance of beating Manchester United.
We Might Click
My reply to these is that although in recent weeks the Blues have not been serving up displays anything like that of which they are capable I does not necessary mean that we will not click into top gear at Old Trafford. You may remember last season in the early rounds of the club competition that Manchester City were being freely criticsed for the manner in which they were progressing in the Cup especially following their lucky victory over Southend United, yet they struck form at the right time and eventually won the Cup. So there so one thing Evertonians can be promised of, and that is that the Blues know what is at stake, will enter the tray at Old Trafford, with confidence. Last week at Goodison Park I could hardly believe it was true when the realized that I had scored the Blues winning goal, it began to dawn on me, for it was the first goal ever scored for Everton that I didn’t see entering the net.
Luckily Inaccurate
When the free kick which led up to the goal was awarded both Nobby Fielding who took the kick and had a short discussion as to the most advantageous manner in which Nobby could take the kick, and we decided on the spur of the moment that Nobby should lob the ball towards the far post where George Kirby had positioned himself. Luckily for us, Fielding’s kick wasn’t quite accurate and the West Ham goalie advanced and punched the ball towards me. As I hit it a West Ham player came right across my line of vision with the result that I never saw where the ball went, and only realized I had scored when I heard the roar of the crowd and saw my colleagues advancing jubilantly towards me.
EVERTON RES V WOLVES RES
February 2, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Res; O’Neill, goal; Heyes and Leeder, backs; Birch, Sanders and Meagan, half-backs; McNamara, Thomas, Hood, Vizard and Williams (G), forwards.
After Hood had been pulled up for offside in Everton’s first attack the visitors gained two quick corners which O’Neill safely cleared. The Everton goal had a lucky escape when O’Neill saved from Wilshaw, who just afterwards was checked most effectively by Sanders although Everton improved their forwards were crowded out, and it was wing-halves Birch and Meagan who produced the best scoring efforts. In the 32nd minute Everton took the lead when Thomas converted a centre from Williams. This was against the run of the play and when the visitors fought back Heyes kicked off the goal line, while Neill missed an easy chance of equalizing. Half-time; Everton Res 1, Wolves Res nil.
THEY HANG ON TO HARD-WON POINT
February 4, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Ranger
Sunderland 1, Everton 1
A draw away from home is always a satisfactory result, no matter what the strength of the opposition may be. When it is accompaplished against a team which is as desperate for points as Sunderland and whose play reflects that desperation in hard and rugged endeavour, then the performance becomes even more satisfying. This was not a brilliant game by any means, particularly in the first half when Everton showed occasional flashes of promise but there were plenty of goalmouth incidents and some narrow escapes to both goals. Throughout the second period the crowd was kept in a state of almost constant excitement as Sunderland hammered away in a vain endeavour to break down Everton’s dogged defensive barrier. Right to the last minute it was as toss-up whether they would succeed. There were periods when it appeared that they must do so, and that the visiting rearguard, gallantly though it struck to its guns most eventually cave in. In the first half, which was rather tame and uninspiring and sadly lacking in shots from either side, Everton had the better of matters, despite the soft and slippery pitch being all against good football and not calculated to bring the best out of them. But at least they looked the more precise side in their approach work.
Missed by Inches
They might have taken the lead very early on if Harris had not mishit his shot after Payne, Farrell, and Gauld had worked an opening by neat combined play. Gauld also missed a possible chance by inches when he failed to tap in a low crops centre by Harris. Another opportunity went the same way when Fielding, trying to ram home a free kick which Farrell side-tapped to him, kicked the ground as well as the ball and presented Bollands with the easiest of saves. Fielding, however, made no mistake at the 39th minute when an almost similar opportunity came his way as Payne squared a pass following a miskick by Hedley. This time Fielding running on to the ball in his stride left Bollands helpless. Their best effort came from Fleming, just before Everton had gone in front. The home leader hit a terrific low shot from 18 yards which seemed bound for the back if the net until Dunlop flung himself full-length across the goal to turn it behind. A little later the Everton goalkeeper ran three yards beyond the confines of his penalty area to boot the ball into the crowd off Fleming’s toes.
Defensive Error
Bingham put the sides on equal terms at the 55th minute this goal coming, like Everton’s from a defensive error. In this case the culprit was Donovan. When a high ball came from the right wing as he was facing his own goal Donovan instead of breasting it down or heading it back to Dunlop, elected to try to hook it away over his head. He missed it completely, leaving Bingham in undisputed possession and with the simplest of chances from twelve yards. From that point onwards it became, apart from the brief occasions that Everton broke away, a struggle between the revived Sunderland attack, well supported by the wing halves, and the harassed and anxious looking Everton defenders. Sunderland’s shooting was not always accurate. Never-the-less they had plenty of shots on the target, and Dunlop had a lot of work to do. He might have been beaten had Fleming and Bingham not missed gilt-edged chances from short range. Anderson hit the bar, and Dunlop tipped a hot drive from Bingham against the woodwork when it seemed impossible for him to reach the ball.
A Danger Man
Shackleton, who had rarely out a pass right in the first half and was barracked by some spectators was a big danger late. He bamboozled one opponent after another and repeatedly carved out chances for his colleagues. Bingham also had a good second half and was his side’s most persistent though rather unlucky shooter. Everton were best served by their defenders, Dunlop being closely followed in the honours list by Donovan and Farrell. Though Donovan’s error led to the equalizer, it was the only slip the made and he stuck to the big and burly Fleming with commendable courage and determination. Tansy was sound, despite getting a nasty knock early in the game, and Farrell was an inspiring figure at all times, getting through a tremendous amount of work in the second half. He urged his colleagues to continued resistance whenever they showed signs of flagging. The forward line was rather ragged and badly lacking in finish. Bollands hardly had a really strong shot to save throughout. Payne did as well as could have been expected after his long lay-off, and on a surface which made his usual brand of play almost out of the question. Harris got so little scope against Daniel that he was frequently forced to try his luck on the wings. He was the most persistent Everton shooter but most of his efforts were down a very fine angle and off the target. Just before the end the referee stopped the game, on the signal of a linesman, and spoke to trainer Harry Wright who had gone to the touchline to pass instructions to Payne for a forward switch which took Gauld to the middle Harris to outside right, and Payne to inside right.
CUP TICKETS RUMOURS SAY ‘FRIDAY’
February 4, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
While Everton were getting a valuable point at Sunderland –a city which buzzes with football rumour and counter-rumours –people in Liverpool were discussing the Everton Cup-tie ticket allocation. The rumour was that it would take place at Goodison Park next Friday evening. Though something like that may be the arrangement, I have it from Mr. Ian Buchan that discussion about Cup-tie tickets was going on over last week end and that the club will not make their announcement of plans for a day or two. If Sunderland form is any guide it looks as through Jimmy Payne will maintain the place, he has longed for since he joined Everton. He came through the match quite fit and satisfied; Everton officials present. There are good hopes, too, that Tom Jones will be fit for the vital game against Charlton next Saturday. Everton hope to win this one and assure themselves of League safety –something which seemed unlikely after that almost disastrous start. There will be opportunity for Mr. Buchan to see Manchester United in action on Wednesday when the second leg European Cup match against Bilbao takes place. But United’s play is an open-book. Everyone knows the Busby methods. It will be Everton’s task to find the flaw in them. Though Harry Wright, the Everton trainer was spoken to by the referee at Sunderland there will be sequel to the matter. Wright explained his position after the game and the referee accepted his explanation.
EVERTON RESERVES FINE IN SECOND HALF
February 4, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Res 4, Wolves Res 0
A splendid second half display enabled Everton to emerge more comfortable winners of this Central League game that at one time seemed likely. After being the more impressive side in the first half, Wolves became almost innocuous once Everton half Wolves became almost innocuous once the Everton half-backs had blotted out the inside men. Everton completely monopolized the last half hour and with a copy book football added three goals to their first half interval lead. Thomas (3), and Vizard scored Everton’s goals.
ANSWERS SEEM CLEAR TO MAIN QESTIONS
February 4, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
It looks as though at long last we have got definite answer to the two questions which have been agitating the minds of Everton and Liverpool supporters for the past few months. In the case of Everton it was “Will they stay up?” in the case of Liverpool “Can they come up?” Bar something sensational it would seem that the answers are “Yes” and “No” respectively. Everton put up a batter show at Sunderland than they have done in several of their recent home games. It was not a brilliant performance by any means, and they have played more convincingly, but they deserved their point. They got it mainly because of the galliant and determined manner in which their defence stood up to a Sunderland side which had much the better of the play in the second half. As the game wore on it seemed almost too much to expect that Everton could keep the opposition at bay. Sunderland were doing three-fourths of the attacking, were shooting hard and often, if not always accurate and had a big advantage in height and weight. Add to that the local encouragement of the spectator’s who had sensed the possibility after giving some of their players the bird in the first half, that Sunderland had a good chance of putting off a victory and Everton were well up against it. There were times when the visitors were penned in their own half –sometimes almost in their own penalty area for minutes on end. Yet throughout they defended stubbornly and doggedly with now and again a spot of luck to help them out of a sticky position. The rearguard got very little respite for what attacks Everton made in the second half were usually of brief duration, partly because they forwards had to drop back to help the hard-pressed defence and were always out-numbered when they broke away. Defence is just as much a part of the game as attack, however, and as worthy of praise. On this reckoning Everton came out with considerable credit.
Dunlop The Star
They may not always have looked very confident, and frequently the ball was scrambled away rather luckily but they prevented Sunderland getting in front and to that extent can be said to have emerged the masters. Dunlop took the chief honours. He had no chance with the goal by which Bingham equalized the one scored by Fielding in the first half, but he saved many other shots, some of which were not easy. His best effort of the day was in the first half before Everton had taken the lead. Fleming had burst through and hit a snorter of tremendous power, Dunlop flung himself across the goal and turned it round the post just as the home crowd, had taken a deep breath ready to hail a goal. Had Sunderland scored they might have run riot despite the wretchedness of their first half finishing. What they needed was the tonic of a goal, a fact which was evident from the change which came over them when Bingham put them on level terms at the 55th minute. Previously they had been scatterbrained and wasteful with their chances. Some shots were nearer the corner flag than the goal; others were nearly as high over the bar as the floodlighting pylons. But as soon as Bingham had given them a taste of blood they stormed down on the visiting goal like a pack of hounds on the trail. Not only the wing halves, but occasionally even the full backs had a go, and Everton were kept at full stretch for long periods.
Solid Defence
It seemed almost impossible the Blues rearguard could hold out to the bitter end. But it did and Everton worthily earned their point. Next to Dunlop’s solid and confident display Donovan, Farrell and Tansey were the strong men of the defence. True, Donovan erred when Sunderland equalized but it was his only mistake in a most grueling afternoon. He tried to hook the ball away over his head when it came across from the right as he was facing his own goal. Had he headed it back to Dunlop there would have been no danger. Instead he missed it completely and Bingham stepped in to accept the unexpected gift with thankfulness. Unfortunately, Everton’s forward line after starting in fairly encouraging fashion fell away considerably in the second half. Even in the first position when the Blues were the better side, there was little or no shooting to test the home goalkeeper. The moves nearly all broke down at the edge of the penalty area. Payne shaped as well as could have been expected on such a muddy surface which was all against ball control or dribbling and taking into account his long absence from senior football. He made the pass which enabled Fielding to score a beautiful goal at the 39th minute and despite the grueling nature of the game showed no signs of fatigue in the closing stages. Gauld was not as prominent as usual. Harris found Daniels too big a barrier down the middle and was at his best when chasing out to the wings –though his finishing was indifferent –and Fielding was the man who used the ball to the best advantage.
A Different Aspect
Sunderland despite their big names looked no better than their position in the table leads one to believe. They were woefully inept in front of goal in the first half and even the great Shack” put more passes to Everton men in the first forty-five minutes than he did to his colleagues. Indeed, Sunderland looked then what they are a side struggling desperately against relegation and the ironic cheers of their followers did nothing to encourage them. They were a vastly different lot after the interval. Then it was Everton’s turn to be on the collar and though Sunderland’s finishing was still not without blemish, they gave Dunlop plenty to do. Bollands by comparison earned his money very easily. He hardly had a worth-while shot to deal with an his goal was in its greatest danger right at the finish when a bad pass back by McDonald would have brought the winning goal from Gauld had Hedley not popped up almost from nowhere to kick the ball right off his toes in the nick of time. Everton were well satisfied with a point but they have to thank their defences for it. They must sharpen up their attack if they are to have any hope of getting through at Old Trafford in a fortnight’s time. And the defence will fine United attack a much more difficult problem than Sunderland’s over-eager forward line.
Youth Cup Match
Everton are waiting for the latest reports on Derek Temple, their young centre forward, before deciding on the team to meet Manchester United in the fourth round of the F.A Cup Youth Cup at Goodison Park on Wednesday afternoon. Temple was rested last week following a slight ankle injury and it is now reasonably certain that he will be fit to play.
GOODISON GAME
February 5, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Manchester United are also involved in another important game through not one arousing such national interest tomorrow afternoon. This is the match between their Youth team and Everton youngsters in the fourth round of the F.A. National Youth Cup. Manchester United’s Youth side has won this trophy on each of the four occasions it has been played for since the competition was inaugurated. It is time somebody pushed them out of the picture and let the honour circulate. Everton reckon they have a good chance of doing this. These Youth Cup games have produced some splendid football in past year’s and there is no reason to anticipate that tomorrow’s encounter will be any exception. The Goodison club’s line-up includes one player with first team experience in Llewellyn three who have figured in the Central League side; Griffiths, Temple and Gannon –and is completed by lads whose names may not be so well known at the moment but which might become as familiar in later years as those now in the senior eleven. These are the teams;- Everton; Johnson; Connor, Griffiths; Redmond, O’Shaughnessy, Gannon, Fielding, Temple, Lewellyn, Ashworth, Barton. Manchester United; Gaskill; Smith, Gibson; English, Holland, Brait; Morgans, Lawton, Dawson, Pearson, Hunter.
No fewer than seven of the youths in the Everton team were former stars in Liverpool and Lancashire Schoolboys sides most of them later going on to win higher recognition in the Liverpool County Youth side. Derek Temple was also an England schoolboy international while Redmond is an England Youth international having played for his country against Switzerland’s Youth eleven this season. On top of that there more have had international trials namely, Connor, Gannon, and Barton while the rest have all distinguished themselves in some way or another in junior football. The same applies to Manchester United. Five of their team-Gaskill, Smith, Holland, Dawson and Pearson –won international caps as schoolboys and Morgans played for Wales. In short this game promises to provide a really tip-top exhibition of football between two of the best youth teams in the country and it should make a special appeal to the half-holiday football followers for it is a type of match which was seldom have the opportunity of seeing. Everton have met United twice before in this competition, losing on each time 1-0 at Manchester. Now with ground advantage their favour they have a chance to get their own back and may well do it. Any side which dismisses the Mancunians he favourities for the trophy. It would be a welcome addition to Everton’s board-room showcase which has not housed any very notable trophies in recent seasons.
DAWSON –A NAME TO REMEMBER
February 7, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Ian Hargreaves
Everton 2, Manchester United 2
FA Youth Cup
The surprisingly small crowd who watched Everton share four goals with Manchester United in the fourth round of the F.A. Youth Cup at Goodison Park yesterday, came away certain of two things –that there is plenty of up and coming talent in the Everton cupboard and that in sixteen-years-old Alec Dawson United have an international centre forward in the making. The brawny son of a Scottish trawler skipper, Dawson already seems destined for the highest honours. Speed, anticipation and shooting powers are all there, and but for the fine work of Everton’s O’Shaughnessey and Johnson, he would have scored more than two goals. A regular member of Manchester United’s Central League side, his record speaks for itself, and providing he keeps clear of injury, I can see nothing to stop him rising to the very top. If Dawson won most attention there were plenty of other promising players to take the eye. Of the Everton team I liked, Temple for his intelligent use of the ball; Fielding for his perseverance and tenacity and Llewellyn for his speed and snap-shooting. Behind them O’Shaughnessey remained solid as granite, and Johnson, a diminutive goalkeeper in the Dunlop mould, performed prodigies of valour hurling himself about without the slightest regard for personal safely. It was sad to see him give away one of the goals – he had no chance with the other-through a fumble when bouncing the ball.
The Same United
United, the heavier and more polished side, looked another edition of their seniors, even down to the occasional mannerism, and English and Gibson bore the mantle of Edwards and Colman with distinction though neither is yet as skilful as their mentors were at the same age. Haskell who sprang to fame overnight when he turned out for United in the televised Charity match against Manchester City kept a sound goal, but like Johnson made one fatal mistake. Unable to gather a long ball by Gorman at the first attempt he left Llewellyn with the easiest of chances. Forward Dawson was the shinning light, but he was well supported by Pearson – recently turned professional – and by two speedy wingers in Morgans and Hunter. Everton took the lead in the 35th minute-rather against the run of play –when Ashworth placed the ball out of Gaskell’s reach following good work by Fielding, but Manchester equalized five minutes later, through Dawson after Johnson’s solitary error. Dawson put United in front with a glorious header from a corner in the 55th minute and they seemed likely winners until the 66th minute, when Llewellyn’s goal made a replay necessary.
THIS WAS A TREAT
February 7, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton and Manchester United Youth team provided one of the finest games I have seen at Goodison Park this season in yesterday’s fourth round of the F.A. National Youth Cup. This was football at its best. It was fast and full of incident with plenty of first-time shooting resolute tackling and from start to finish both side’s fought as though their lives depended on the result. For all they much-vaunted ability which has not been over-rated. Manchester United’s lads were no better than the home side. they certainly had a spell during the first half when it looked as though they might run Everton off their feet but it was of brief duration, and the young Blues showing fighting spirit and courage in the tackle which might be copied by some of their seniors gave as good as they got before the final whistle went. It was not only real cup-tie football so far as dogged determination went but it had craftsmanship, skill and strong finishing to give it; added spice. Occasionally there was an excess of “bite” which we could well have done without, but in most cases it sprang from sheer youthful enthusiasm and earnest endeavour. To those who erred let me just whisper that the true sportsman with skill like these lads has no need to resort to even slightly questionable tactics. In little Fielding Everton have a grand right winger of whom we should hear more later, if his physique is not too much a handicap. Temple was another talented player. Barton also shaped well and the whole forward line was far more productive of shots than the first team usually serves up. O’Shaughnessy, despite being against a powerful centre forward in Dawson, often showed up to advantage, the wing halves were enterprising, and both backs though occasionally inclined to kick a little wildly –understandable considering the pressure sometimes put on them- were well up to standard. When not caught in a tight corner, Connor showed considerable intelligence in his use of the ball and clever positioning. United had two splendid wingers in Morgans and Hunter, a clever schemer in Pearson an outstanding leader in Dawson and a sound and well-balanced defence. A draw was the right result for neither side deserved to lose. If they serve up as good an exhibition in the replay at Manchester it should be a game well worth seeing.
CHARLTON VISIT GOODISON IN DESPERATE NEED OF BOTH POINTS
February 8, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton will have to shape better than they have been doing recently to make sure of victory, despite the apparent weaknesses of the opposition. One good thing with the Manchester United Cup-tie only a week away is that Everton are no so desperately in need of points as they once were. Though they cannot afford needlessly to sacrifice any they seem well out of danger, so can tackle tomorrow’s task in an eased frame of mind. It is not difficult to pin-point Charlton’s major weakness. Already 76 goals have entered their net in 28 outings, an average of nearly three a game. They have scored 39 times themselves which is one more than Everton have obtained from a similar number of matches. Charlton have won only six games all but one of them at the Valley. The solitary away success was at Chelsea on November 5 when Charlton won 3-1. The other 12 matches on opponents grounds have been lost, several of them by large margins. The biggest reverse was at Roker Park, where Sunderland now as long their companions in distress beat then 8-1 on September 1 and where Everton drew last week. Although Charlton got their own back by beating the Wearsiders at the Valley on December 29, they have subsequently lost their last three league engagements and a Cup-tie. It is hardly surprising in view of the dismal defensive record that many changes have been made in the rearguard. The most regular member of this department has been Scottish international John Hewie who has missed only four matches. Hewie, who is Scotland’s current choice for the left back berth, has filled several positions for his club. He has played at right and left back right half, centre half and centre forward. Two members of the side who have played in every game since being signed are goalkeeper Willie Duff and outside right Sam Lawrie recruited from Hearts and Middlesbrough respectively. Lawrie who went to the Valley in November a month before Duff has taken over from Lancashirian Gordon Hurst on the right flank of the attack. Duff was signed as a replacement for Sam Bartram now managing York City after Eddie Marsh and Frank Reed had both been given the opportunity to shake a claim to regular season inclusion. Another acquiation since the start of the season is centre forward John Summers, a November recruit from Millwall. Despite having played only eleven matches, two of which were at inside forward he is leading marksman with eight goals. Apart from Summers and reserve inside forward Bobby Ayre who has seven goals to his credit but has not been in the side since early December nobody else has netted more than four. Standing on that mark is Jimmy Gauld, who obtained his in the 13 matches he played before his transfer to Everton in October. With the return of Jones to centre half and Donovan back to his best berth Everton should be more balanced and solid in defence, while Payne will have benefitted by his preliminary canter at Roker Park. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Farrell, Jones, Rea; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Fielding, Eglington. Charlton; Duff; Campbell, Ellis; Hewie, Ufton, Hammond; Lawrie, Leary, Ryan, Summers, Kiernan.
SETTLERS TWO PROBLEMS
February 9, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Though Londoners may be critical (and maybe more than a little envious) of Manchester Cup hysteria the fact remains that no London team has picked up two points from Old Trafford since Charlton, Everton’s opponents of today) did it in 1938-39. Arsenal will be keen to bring that record up-to-date today and if they were to succeed that would be doing Everton a good turn, too. Ebullient followers of Everton still have faith that their clubs is a cup goal in from already because twice in recent times, Everton have ended winning United runs at Old Trafford. For the game against Charlton at Goodison Park this afternoon Everton are able to give what will almost certainly be their Cup side a run for the first time for weeks. Everyone is eager to see the now fully fit Payne on the Everton right wing. The return of Tom Jones –that phlegetmatic, stolid, dependable centre half back –will help Everton psychologically, well as Donovan has filled the position meanwhile. This match can go far towards solving two Everton problems. It can settle the Cup sides, it can give them points which would virtually clear them of League worries. Charlton still have players of quality, but it seems to me they miss the knowledge and experience of their former manager Jimmy Seed, who not only raised them from Division 3, but kept them safely in Division 1, when relegation loomed. Jimmy Gauld of Everton, can be depended on to want to show his old team what they missed. Nevertheless the match has an open look and Charlton incentive is greater than Everton’s. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Farrell, Jones, Rea; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Fielding, Eglington. Charlton; Duff; Campbell, Ellis; Hewie, Ufton, Hammond; Lawrie, Leary, Ryan, Summers, Kiernan.
PAYNE STARTS EVERTON TO A GOAL-SCORING SPREE
February 9, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Charlton, Outclassed, Have Div 11 Look
Everton 5, Charlton 0
By Stork
Everton; Dunlop, goal; Donovan and Tansey, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones and Rea, half-backs; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Fielding, and Eglington, forwards. Charlton Athletic; Duff, goal; Campbell and Ellis, backs; Hewie, Ufton, and Hammond, half-backs; Lawrie, Leary, Ryan, Summers, and Kiernan, forwards. Referee; Mr. L. Howarth (Beverley, Yorkshire). Charlton are in the doldrums so it can be taken for granted they will put up a stiff fight at Goodison today. Gauld was made captain of Everton for the day, against his former colleagues. Everton went right into the attack through their right wing but Harris shot wide of the mark. A through ball by Leary looked as though it might set the Londoners on the attack but the Everton defence challenged strongly and successfully.
Dunlop’s Saves
Donovan made two splendid interventions to check the Charlton left wing, but the Londoners eventually won a corner and Dunlop had to make a save from Lawrie, who had come over to the left wing. So far Everton had looked decidedly the more dangerous side and Payne from 30 yards out. Forced Duff to a good save, the Charlton keeper turning the ball outside just as it was about to dip under the woodwork. Everton’s attack was showing quick shooting today than for some time and Duff had to go down smartly to prevent a Fielding effort sneaking just inside the upright. Fielding tried another but one was well off the mark. It was heartening to see the Blues attack to prepared to shoot. Summers a tall rangy inside-forward took a leaf out of Everton’s book and tried a long shot which was headed over the goal line by Rea. The corner was speedily cleared and Rea made a forward run which came unstuck because his pass to Fielding got bogged in the mud. Everton had a slice of luck when Ryan burst through the middle. It looked any odds on him scoring, put Dunlop came out and smothered his shot. A few moments later the Everton keeper was again in action and he once more pulled off a top class save from a shot-range effort by the Charlton centre-forward. Tansy after making a successful intervention, moved into the firing line and delivered a hard fast drive –but off target. Charlton came near to scoring through a mistake by Donovan so it was only poetic justice he should be the one to save the situation. The Everton full back made a faulty pass intended for his goalkeeper and Dunlop had to rush out and push the ball away, from the oncoming Ryan. The ball went out to Kiernan who took a quick shot at goal knowing Dunlop could hardly get back in time but Donovan standing on the goal line headed away. This was a tense moment for Everton. One of the nicest bits of combination so far was credited to Everton. The ball must have gone past between at least half a dozen players without a Charlton man touching it but Rea failed in the final execution shooting wide. Although Charlton did not make a lot of attacks, when they did they always looked as though they might do something. For instance, Donovan had to be sure in his tackle on Kiernan to prevent the winger getting in his shot. Jones had plenty to do for his pre-Cup-tie test and what he did was done with confidence. When Ellis gave away a free kick at the 31st minute he could not have realized how costly it was going to be. Fielding lobbed the ball into the goalmouth and it eventually came to Harris. He pushed it to Payne, at inside left who cracked in a shot which left Duff helpless. This was Payne’s first goal to Everton, and it was a good one, too. Farrell prevented an equalizer with a do-or-die intervention and then Fielding when badly angled saw Duff save his shot. Rea was having a particularly good innings and when Gauld tried one of his famous long runs he was checked in the final tride when he put the ball a shade too far forward and Duff came out to receive it. there was no doubt that Everton had been the more dominate so far as attack was concerned and Farrell was unlucky when after racing through, he stubbed his foot just as he was about to shoot so that the ball had no power behind it. Close on the interval Summers had a chance but was sledged by two defenders all he got was a corner. In the next half minute Everton too won a corner Eglington pulled this back to Tansey whose shot was saved. Half-time; Everton 1, Charlton Athletic nil.
Everton were soon on the attacking trial again for within a minute of resuming Duff had caught a cross shot from Fielding. The Charlton keeper did a much better job when he turned an Eglington drive on to the crossbar. This was a good save to match a good shot. summers got across one centre which had it been a foot lower would have meant danger to Everton, as it was the centre was too high for Leary. Right from this Everton attacked and Duff had to come out to pick up from the feet of Gauld. The Everton inside right was slightly injured but the game was not stopped. At the 56th minute Everton increased their lead through Harris. Rea beat two men and then slipped the ball over to Harris who casually slid it into the net. Harris might have made it three when he was through and clear of all opposition but Duff rushed out of goal and took the Everton man’s shot on his foot. Charlton had a Second Division look about them, and three minutes after Harris had scored Gauld chalked up Everton’s third goal after Farrell had struck the crossbar with a lightning drive. It was now a battle between the Everton forwards and the Charlton defence and Payne came through the middle and tried to lob the ball over the advancing Duff’s head but he got too much under it and the ball went over the bar. Both Farrell and Fielding tested Duff, who was the busiest man on the Charlton side. There was no reluctance on the part of the Everton forwards to shoot today, and Harris had a short-range shot kept out when Duff stuck his foot out to prevent goal number four. Harris made it 4-0 at the 76th minute after the goalkeeper had kicked the ball of his line, it went to Fielding. He tapped it over to Harris who shot through a ruck of players. Fielding scored a fifth at the 80th minute. It was Gauld who gave Fielding the opportunity –he took it by smashing a drive that crashed into the top netting. Dunlop made his first real save of the afternoon when he stopped a point-blank shot from Summers. Official attendance 35,423.
DEARTH OF TALENT PUZZLES ME
February 9, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Peter Farrell
Football’s missing millions and the consequent decline in turnstile takings are causing no little concern to all concerned with the gate. Another disturbing and equally important matter is the missing talent in the form of youngsters who are not finding their way into professional football today. Most clubs have talented youngsters on their books who, with ordinary luck, will eventually make the grade, but the proportion of these is not as high as it should be. The system of scouting in football nowadays is more intensified than ever particularly in view of the reliance of clubs to pay fantastic prices for players. Yet despite the continuous search for talent, really great young stars of the calibre of Alick Jeffrey, Duncan Edwards, Johnny Davies, and others, are few and far between.
Other Attractions
I wonder what is the reason for this dearth of promising young talent in the game today. Perhaps boys have too many other sporting attractions offered them in the schools and are anxious to have a go at them all rather than devote their whole playing time to soccer. Again perhaps when a lad with undoubted ability is really beginning to devote his spare time so improving his skill at soccer he has to do his National Service and may subsequently lose interest in the game.
Bad For The Game
Doubtless there are others bit whatever the reasons the fact remains that young stars are not making their mark in football today as they did not long ago. This is bad for the game and the sooner some ideas can be put into operation to get young boys more interested in the game, and to make the lot of a professional more attractive the sooner will the general standard of play improve. I have mentioned the names of some great young stars. What makes these and others among the older ones whose names are household words in football to be really great? One of my assessments of a great player apart from his natural ability is “What is he doing when he hasn’t got the ball.” Yet how many fans look far this in the makeup of their favourities.
Value To Side
People often tell me that so-and-so is a terrific player, yet when not in possession he hadn’t got the football brain to get into a position where he can be found easily, by a colleague. In other words such a player’s value as an entertainer to the crowd may be first rate but his value to the side is not much.
Ticket Search
With the forthcoming Cup-tie with Manchester United uppermost in the minds of Evertonians the frantic search for tickets is on in real earnest. At a time like this the players are inundated with requests for tickets and who can blame the seekers. Naturally it would be a pleasure to oblige people, but our allocation is such that we cannot meet the demands of our relatives and immediate friends. I thought we thoroughly deserved our point at Sunderland last Saturday, despite a few narrow escapes in the closing stages. It was good to see Jimmy Payne back in league football after such a long absence. Jimmy has had a hard battle back to fitness following his serious operation. It must have seemed to him as if he was starting his career all over again, as he was a regular member of the Blues “A” team for a long time before getting a couple of games in the Reserves.
BARNSLEY RES V EVERTON RES
February 9, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Barnsley Res;- Leeson, goal; Thomas and Gillott, backs; Smith, Hopkins, and Wood, half-backs; Stafford, Sidebottom, Rowe, Storey, and Graham, forwards. Everton Res;- O’Neill, goal; Sutherland and Leeder, backs; Birch, Sanders, and Meagan, half-backs; McNamara, Thomas, Mayers, Vizard, and Williams (G), forwards. Referee; Mr. H.L.P. Holmes (Derby). Everton scored twice in the first three minutes, Mayers netted when he beat Hopkins and Gilliott then Leeson saved well from Vizard. In the third minute McNamara sent home a corner by Williams from close range. Graham passed to Rowe and the Barnsley leader shot smartly to score for Barnsley after five minutes. Outclassing Barnsley in speed and ability Everton gained their third goal through Thomas after 35 minutes. He headed home a pass from McNamara. Half-time; Everton Res 3, Barnsley Res 1.
NEVER AN EVERTON SO GOOD IN THE MUD
February 11, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Escape From The Word Ticket!
Everton 5, Charlton Athletic 0
By Leslie Edwards
Everton players will do a final training stint at Goodison Park next Thursday and will then go off to Blackpool for three days. Special training for the fifth round tie at Old Trafford. No just a precaution by their coach, Ian Buchan, to ensure that they remain outside the orbit of friends who meet them and open the conversation with “I don’t suppose you’ve…” Yes, the ticket situation has become so onerous to players, directors, and officials it’s a wonder all of them have not upped sticks and made for Blackpool long ago. You cannot expect players who are badgered at every turn to be happy that is why Everton decided on Blackpool. They travel direct to Manchester on Saturday. There will be training at the seaside, of course, but by no means can it be described as special. Though they do not shout it from the housetops, Everton must be one of the best (if not the best) trained team in Britain. If they were less they could never have produced that riotous second half performance against Charlton –a final Cup trial which must have sent home Manchester spies with the lurking feeling that Everton may yet be United’s bogey again. The rule at Goodison Park is that any player injured on Saturday shall attend for treatment on Sunday morning. Not a casualty, or a sign of one, yesterday. So Mr. Followers of Everton, you can take it for granted that the side which will trot out a week hence will be; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Farrell, Jones, Rea; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Fielding and Eglington.
Dunlop’s Part
Among these are eight of the team which beat Manchester United 5-2 at Old Trafford in October. The exceptions? Rea for Birch, Payne for McNamara, and Harris J. for Kirby. Kirby (2) and McNamara (1) claimed three of Everton’s goals that momentous day…
Also don’t forget this was Albert Dunlop’s debut day, I cannot help thinking that his solidity and courage from that moment has done much to enable Everton to recover, magnificently from a damaging start –this despite what a few unfair critics said of Dunlop’s play at the Aston Villa ground. United had three men on the treatment table yesterday and they’ll be there again this morning –right back Foulkes who has bruised ribs and right-half Colman and inside right Whelan, both of whom came out of the Arsenal game with bruised thighs. All going well these three will be fit on the day, but until they are there must always remain doubt about their availability. Whatever doubts some of us may have had about Everton’s chances there can be none now –and that after allowing for the poor positional play and lack of confidence in the Charlton side. This second half Everton was unbelievably good …full of shots, of ideals and stayers to the last inch on the most gruellling of pitches.
Final Call-Over
Here is my final call over on the team which will make United go all the way –
Dunlop; A spectator throughout the second half, but a busy man in the game’s opening minutes. A save at point blank range from Summers, a wonderful catch of a shot by Ryan and an excursion in which he seemed to be in three different parts of the penalty box at the same time virtually completed his day. Top marks.
Donovan; He faced the boyish looking Kiernan –a teasing winger –and kept him quiet. There were some bumps between them, but Donovan was always master. He may well impose his command too, on Pegg. Top mark.
Tansey; Once a very fine club back. Now something much more than that. Lawrie was as lively as Berry, but Tansey, cool and calculating, never allowed him much scope. Indeed so eager was Lawrie to take one corner quickly he kicked the flag! I’ve never seem that before. Top Marks.
Farrell; coming through that mud heap he was like the Queen Mary under full steam coming up channel. The best game he ever played for Everton. United will have to watch those wing-half excursions of his and Rea’s. How Farrell stayed so well in the conditions is a mystery only he and Ian Buchan can solve. Crackerjack shooting deserved goals, but none came. Twice his shots struck the bar. Top marks, plus.
A Bit Rusty
Jones; For ten minutes his play looked a bit rusty. Then he settled to show that he is not only fully fit, but as dominating as ever. What a good thing this match was available for his return. Had he restarted at Manchester the game might well have been won in the initial moments.
Rea; The youngster who was a great player in prospect on the Amercian tour is now developing as expected. As cheeky and penetrating in his up-field work as Colman. He made Harris’ first goal. He’ll make many others if he continues to play as confidently and well. Maximum marks.
Payne; A goal on his return to Goodison. Like Jones, a bit rusty and not as match-fit as he will be. Happy to fit into the Everton scheme and delighted, he says, to have another crack at Matt Busby’s side.
Gauld; His straight-for-goal ideas are catching at Everton, and praise be, there is more directions. One of a line which pounded Charlton into submission in one of the most uproarious Everton performances I have known for seasons. Gauld misses some chances; inevitable when he makes so many. Top marks
Harris; Not one of his best matches, though he scored twice from easy chances.
Fielding; Like Farrell’s an outstanding contribution. Fielding is always at his best when his side has really got their teeth into the game. Charlton will remember their fellow-Londoner with no affection. It was his engineering which pulled their defence so badly out of position. A magnificent contribution.
Eglington; He contributed shots of such power and venom one is amazed he does not try them oftener. His best game this season. When he wandered, second half, it always to good purpose. Charlton from goal to outside left can be summed in a few lines, some ability especially in goal and at outside right; no defence and no confidence worth mentioning. If ever a side was booked…
BARNSLEY RES V EVERTON RES
February 11, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton’s superiority was evident throughout this game. Unfortunately both sides tended to forget football in the closing stages, and Referee H.L.P Holmes of Derby, called Barnsley inside-left Storey and Everton right back Birch for a ticking-off after a series of incidents between the two. Markedly absent from all this was Everton inside left Thomas, who got in with the job of netting a hat-trick. Other goals came from centre-forward Mayers and outside right McNamara both in the first three minutes, Barnsley’s scorer was eighteen-years-old centre forward Rowe.
EVERTON’S FIVE-GOAL TONIC FOR UNITED CUP-TIE
February 11, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
I wonder what the Manchester United representative who was at Goodison Park spying out the land in view of next Saturday’s Cup-tie has told Matt Busby, the United manager about this Everton which swamped Charlton Athletic? He must have impressed it upon Matt that Everton’s second half display was almost as good as that half against Manchester City a couple of seasons ago when they simply toyed with the City. I don’t suppose it will frighten the United manager, for he has a great team at his command. He cannot have forgotten Everton’s victory at Old Trafford earlier in the season and no doubt he will have a plan to offer Everton’s tactics. Charlton Athletic are not Manchester United for whereas the United are League leaders the Athletic are holding up the rest of the table. When one talks of a victory has got to take the opposition into account and I must admit that Charlton look as certain for the drop as night follows day. They really got away with it on Saturday for Everton were worth more than the five goals they scored. Yet at the same time Everton could have been two goals down before they had scored for it was then that Charlton had their best spell but Dunlop was the man to prevent them springing a surprise. Two goals then could have turned this game inside out, for it was not until Payne scored that Everton really got their teeth into the game. That goal was worth all the tea in China for it gave Everton even more confidence than they had started off with.
Real Winners
I said to myself as the ball flashed into the net that was the real winner no matter what followed on for one could see that some of Everton anxiety had been cast aside and from then on they gradually grew in strength and football ability until finally they simply toyed with the opposition. Charlton were played into the ground by a side which played top grade football and shot as they have not shot for some time. Half backs and full backs come up to the firing line and Duff rarely had an idle moment. He is a worthy successor to Sam Bartram in this display. Several times I saw an Everton marksman turn away in amazement having seen his shot saved when all looked lost. Eglington was the only forward who failed to score but few would hold that against him for some of his well directed drives deserved a better fate. However, his colleagues supplied the answer, but I still think Payne’s goal was the all-important one. One thing Everton will be most pleased about was the form of Tommy Jones, who returned following his injuries. He was a little uncertain at the start, but improved as the game progressed and was the old Tommy Jones long before the end- dominating and sure. Payne may well solve a problem which has been troubling Everton for some considerable time. He showed no effect of his heel trouble and his link with Gauld made the right wing more penetrating than it has been this season. He gave Ellis a hard afternoon and the way he took his shot recalled many of the goals he scored for Liverpool, it was his first for Everton; it won’t be his last.
Back To Form
Another pleasing feature was Eglington’s return to form. He has been having a lean time recently but he was back to his best on Saturday. Even when Everton held only a one goal lead at the interval I had no fear of them losing for I could not see this heartless and ineffective Charlton causing them any damage. Everton played a brand of soccer that was at one time the Everton tradition. They dove-tailed like a jig-saw puzzle –every piece fitted into its place and the result was the picture complete. In the end I became too easy for Charlton had not the ability to check this display of football and had it not been for Duff double figures would undoubtedly been the result. Yes, Everton were that much on top that much the superior side. If Everton needed any confidence for next Saturday this game supplied it. They made openings by wise tactics and best of all they were not slow to shoot.
Harris Got Two
Harris got two –they were made easy for him, but he was there to take them-and Gauld captain for the day was delighted with his goal against his old comrades. Fielding also netted. Farrell and Rea –I thought the latter had a splendid match –were for ever promising and the backs Donovan and Tansey (also a shooter) kept a tight grip on Keirnan and Lawrie respectatively. While I admit Charlton were poor don’t forget it was Everton who made them poor and if the Blues can produce this form at Old Trafford on Saturday then those who are lucky to have tickets should see a great cup tie. Those who give Everton no chance may have to eat their words. We did not give them much chance in the League game yet they won and won well.
EVERTON’S CUP-TIE PLAN WILL BE TO RELY ON ALL-OUT ATTACK
February 12, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Whatever Everton decide when they get down to their final talk upon the tactics to adopt in the Cup-tie against Manchester United I imagine the main plank will rest upon an effort to produce all-out attacking moves from start to finish. One of the faults which has characterized them for several seasons has been a tendency to concentrate more on stopping the opposition than on going out themselves for goals with vigour and determination. Avoidance of defeat seems to have been the ruling matter. Chief coach Ian Buchan has been working assiduously all this season to instill a more positive and enterprising spirit into the side. There is no trouble about doing so before the game starts. The trifle old motto that attack is the best form of defence is as true that nobody questions. The snag arises when the game is in progress and the tide starts to run against them. Some of the players seem occasionally to fair that the forfeiture of a goal means the end of their hope. The consequence that more emphasis is put on preventing this happening than on getting goals themselves. The value of a strong attacking policy was swiftly proved against Charlton on Saturday and though nobody would attempt to company lowly Charlton with Manchester United, the fact remains that a similar policy on Saturday is likely to pay Everton better than the negative one of concentrating more on defence.
United’s Good Fortune
The Mancanicins have been very fortunate this season in escaping serious injury. They have made extremely few changes in their composition with consequent improvement and consequent instrument and perfection in their teamwork combination understanding and general balance. Manager Matt Busby has utilized 15 players this winter but this figure is rather deceptive. The seven reserves who have come into the side have totaled only 17 appearances between them of which ten have been made by Charlton and McGuiness each with five. The other reserves have appeared in only one game each. In actual effect United have been able to play the same team in all their matches. On one occasion in October they had to make three changes, an almost unheard of thing because Byrne Edwards and Taylor were on duty that day against Ireland. There are four ever-presents in the Old Trafford team. These are right back Foulkes right half Colman and forwards Whelan and Pegg. Or the remainders, goalkeeper Wood, and outside right Berry have missed only one game, centre forward Taylor, left half Edwards and centre half Jones have been absent twice, left back Byrne three times and inside left Viollet on 3 occasions. To have a list of only 17 absent marks against eleven first teamers over six months of hectic League and Cup football is quite a remarkable achievement. It is the sort of consistency to gladden the heart of any manager. When there is added to it reserves of the strength and ability which United are able to bring in there is obviously nothing much to worry about. Foulkes however, may lose his record for he is at present under treatment for damaged ribs and is not certain to be fit in time. Colman and Whelan are certain to be fit after minor knocks. Everton have not been anything like so fortunate. Quite apart from the many changes they made in the early part of the season when they were struggling desperately to get back on an even keel and field a stronger team after their shocking start, they have been hit harder by injuries than their Old Trafford rivals. As a basis of comparison Everton have called upon the services of 24 players this season with tansy the only ever present.
EVERTON CAN FACE THIS CUP-TIE WITH EASIER MINDS THAN UNITED
February 15, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Although fourteen other teams besides Everton and Manchester United take part in the fifth round F.A Cup-ties so far as Merseyside and Cottonopolis are concerned the interest tomorrow is centred almost exclusively in this Old Trafford tussle which has aroused more pre-match argument in this area than any game since Everton and Liverpool met two years ago. Although the first reaction of many Everton followers on hearing the draw was to discount the Blues chances, there has been quite a change of opinion since, especially after Everton’s demonstration of attacking football against Charlton last week. Though everyone realizes that there is a difference between United and Charlton the fact remains that Everton proved as they also did in the League game against Manchester United and Arsenal that there are occasions when they can play an all-out attacking game well and make it pay good dividend. The big problem tomorrow is whether they will be allowed to wrest the initiative from the opposition as they did in their previous meeting. The Blues were faced with the same problem when defeating United 5-2 at Old Trafford on October 20 last year, bringing to an abrupt and surprise end the Manchurians run of 26 matches without defeat. There was no fluke about that victory and no luck such as they have had in their earlier cup-ties. On the contrary, Everton had to battle back against a goal to United in the first ten minutes. They did it magnificently, gave the opposition no respite and knocked them right out of their usual rhythm. The put the same tactics to good use against Arsenal a week later and then for some obscure reason –or possibly no reason at all, but just because it worked out that way –they gradually fell back again to their more finicky and over-elaborate methods. They must not do that tomorrow.
Once Caught Twice Shy
Whenever they have reproduced they old Trafford brand of play in subsequent matches they have invariably proved that they can be a match for the best. The moral is so clear that it needs no emphasis. But as I say the question is whether United will be caught on the hop a second time. you can bet your bottom boots that not only shrewd Matt Busby but all the United players have and plans to ensure so far as is humanly possible that they are not caught again in the same trap. Apart from the psychological advantage to Everton of the knowledge of their earlier success they can also go into this game with a more care-free attitude than the Manchester lads. The United have more on their minds than this one tie. They are running strongly for the First Division championship and the European Cup, an almost superhuman “treble.” However much they try to put everything out of their minds but the immediate task it is quite on the cards that the immensity of the struggle ahead of them in these three competitions may make them over-anxious about tomorrow’s result. And when any side, no matter how talented, becomes over-anxious, little things sometimes start to go wrong. Errors tend to crop-up, particularly if things do not run well from the beginning and the leading goal which has been hoped for does not arrive.
Team Of All The Talents
With the seven full internationals plus, two other players who have figured in representative games, Manchester United could well lay claim to being the modern “team of all; the talents.” But in a tense, hectic, pulsating 90 minutes of Cup-tie football the odds are not always on the more talented side individually. Team work and sheer determination count for a lot, and though United are certainly not inferior to Everton in these qualities anything can happen in a Cup-tie, if you will pardon that trite but always true expression. On current; form and performance over the whole season a victory for Manchester United must seem the most obvious forecast. Indeed, reluctant though I am to admit it, I fear that will be the ultimate outcome. But I am hoping that Everton, who are claimed to be one of the fittest teams in the country, with staying power of greater strength than most will be able to do again what they achieved four months ago. If they can really get their teeth into the game from the start and clamp down on United’s three dangerous inside men-the wingers are sometimes inclined to hug the touchline as a bit too closely to be a constant threat – the Blues may prove my fears groundless. I am not going into the a comparison of the League records of the two sides. They mean little or nothing in a Cup-tie. All that counts is what happens during the 90 minutes. Can Everton turn the tables on a side which has been installed as favourities for both Cup and League since the opening match of the campaign. It looks a most formidable task but not an impossible one. A draw, while not quite so satisfactory would be a good performance. I shall be overjoyed at either. At the moment of writing neither club has announced its definite team due to doubts over Harris in the case of Everton and the query about Foulkes for Manchester. Final selection will be made from the following; Manchester United; Wood; Foulkes, Bent, Byrne; Colman, Jones (M), Edwards; McGuinness, Berry, Whelan, Taylor, Viollet, Pegg. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Farrell, Jones (T), Rea; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Mayers, Fielding, Eglington, Thomas.
Everton followers who have been unable to get a ticket for the Old Trafford game, and cannot wait patiently until they know the result of the match will be able to hear the score every fifteen minutes during the course of the Central League match at Goodison Park against Blackburn Rovers Reserves.
TURNING THE PAGES OF EVERTON’S EARLY HISTORY
February 16, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
A ninety-one years old “Daily Post” reader who played against Everton at their old Anfield ground more than seventy years ago (and who wishes to remain unknown) sent to the Sports Editors this remarkable story of Everton’s early history. It was written by the most famous football writer of his day Mr. J.A.H. Cotton and was one chapter in a publication entitled “The Rise of The Leaguers” Everton fans travelling to Manchester today will find much of interest them in the early growth of the club, which has become one of the most famous in the land.
The remarkably rapid rise of Everton is the most convincing evidence that can be produced of the phenomenal popularity of Association Football and of its power to dethrone even such an exciting sport as the Rugby code in the hearts of people. Time was when Liverpoolians were constant in their affection to the handlers, but all this has been changed, and the human horde which tolls and struggles with the mercantile freightage of the world now spares a few hours of each week for the rest and excitement which great Goodison Park can afford them. The origin of this organization was as humble as even Urian Heap could have desired. Many and many a year ago there was an institution called the St. Domingo Cricket Club, supported by young men of the Congregation Chapel in St. Domingo Vale. They were keen players of our amateur pastime, and in order not to accumulate too much solid flesh in the winter they resolved to kick a football about on the Saturdays during the long winter months. The noble resolve to preserve clean and healthy bodies is the keystone of the situation. These muscular Christians used to journey to the public recreation ground known as Stanley Park and possibly their diversions in 1878 caused them to be regarded as so many harmless lunatics. A year later the players adopted the undignified name of The St Domingo Football Club, and fulfilled a programme of matches against purely local events. Such a curious title could not long survive and in November 1879, the members in general meeting assembled at their then headquarters The Queen’s Head Hotel, Village Street, took the ambitious title of Everton.
A Famous Captain
On December 23, 1879 Everton played their first match against St. Peter’s and their victory was a true omen of the startling successes time had in store. Thus we have the club fairly launched. In February of the following year, 1880 Everton first gave battle to Bootle St. John’s which afterwards developed into the well-known Bootle organization (now defunct) in Stanley Park and the local rivaraly aroused considerable interest. It was about this date that Jack McGill formerly of Glasgow Rangers donned the Everton jersey. He was the first scot to assist them, and afterwards became their captain, but it should be understood that this capital forward was not imported. The Lancashire F.A admitted the new club in 1880-81 and in the County Cup competition Everton were drawn against Great Level –a severe task for them. This entailed their first railway trip-all the way to Bolton –and to the credit of the Evertonians they made a draw on their opponents ground, enough on replaying Great level thrashed these men from the banks of the Mersey by 8-1. Still Everton had made an impression and that very season McGill was chosen to play both for Lancashire and the county of his birth, Ayrshire. In 1881-82 the jersey was changed from blue and white stripes to black with scarlet sash, which earned them the nickname of the Black Watch, possibly another augury since William Stewart their latter day captain was formerly in that regiment. But they have had several changes of uniform since. They have had salmon coloured jerseys and blue knickers and when Rugby shorts with blue trimmings and dark blue pants, although their present livery-dark blue vests and white knickerbockers –is the simplest and best and keeps in our memory rare old Blackburn Olympic –the first provincial team to win the F.A. Cup. To return to the events of 1881-82. This season Bolton Wanderers walked round Everton by 13-1 but the oldest club in Lancashire, Turton (still alive and kicking) only conquered them by 3-1. The officers aw that an enclosed ground was a necessity and in March 1882 at a meeting held at the Sandon Hotel, a subcommittee was appointed to look out for a site. In the summer of 1883 a ground was obtained, Mr. Cruitt of Coney Green, Anfield, permitting the use of a field off Prior Road. The first gate amounted to the enormous sun of 14s. In November 1883 a Mr. J. Trainer was elected a member of Everton and played for the second team – for in the meantime the club had advanced so much that they could put two elevens in the field. It is a pity-for Everton –that this Mr. Trainer after a brief residence in the midst removed to Bolton, for he was The Trainer the most consistently clever goalkeeper who ever stood between posts.
Their First Trophy
In the season of 1883-84 Everton won their first trophy the Cup offered by the recently formed Liverpool Association. They defeated Earlestown in the final tie and this victory was probably the greatest stimulus they ever had. The campaign of 1884-85 saw their removal to the well-known playing area in Anfield Road, which remained their headquarters until Goodison Park was opened by Lord Kinnard in 1892. Only twelve years ago the members of Everton themselves worked, with a will to level their new enclosure. This ground was opened with a match against Earlestown who were beaten by five goals. The great “gate” on the new enclosure at Anfield Road was when Everton played Bootle on January 31, 1885. The result on that memorable occasions –for it was a local cup-tie –were about £39. The half share which stands in the Everton account books was £19 11s 6d. from the time of the acquisition of the new enclosure ho ahead principles were adopted by the management, who did their little business hard by at The Sandon, where senator assembled on Mondays, and players prepared for battle on Saturdays. What hearty welcomes people who were “anybodies” in the football world had to be sure, in those days at Anfield Road. All the crack clubs were invited down and the people who came out of the highways and byways from, wharves and warehouses, the seafarers and landlubbers, marveled with open mouths at the way the professors from the big centres propelled the airy-like ball over the turf. A worn partners verily, for the Anfield ground, at that time could only sport about three blades of grass. Thus did the elementary education of the Liverpoolians in the Association code progress. When one day they beat Accrington placecarded all over the seaport as “The champions of the Champions.” (Accrrington had on Easter Tuesday been the first side to lower the colours at Deepdale of Preston North End who had won the season up to them without a check) Everton commenced fluncking just a little bit about themselves.
First Great Cup-Tie
Since then pride on their part has been pardonable. I was just referring to the receipts (£39) of the Everton –Bootle cup-tie in 1885. When we compare this with £1,144 6s 4d which the turnstiles recorded as the final result of the meeting of Everton and Liverpool on October 3, 1896 we get a faint idea of the giant strides the Association game has made. This sum is the largest ever taken at an ordinary League match. On September 19 last Aston Villa visited Everton and no less than £766 was paid as entrance money by the public. Truly no comparison can be instituted. Indeed the ample financial resources which Everton have always been able to command –for the “gates” increased almost weekly –after arriving at Anfield Road enabled the club to engage the most talented exponents of the game and this give the people good sport for their money and consolidate the position of the club. The income for 1884-85 was £200 as compared with £45 the previous year. But prior to the commencement of the season 1892-93 the members forced themselves into a Limited company with a nominal capital of £2,500, Mr. R. Molyneux who has accomplished so much for the club since he was appointed secretary in 1889-90 has been kind enough to furnish me with the balance sheets since the company was formed –and these more than aught I know, tell a tale of progress. In round figures it may be taken that the income is £10,000 per annual. The total gate receipts at home for the ten months ending April 29, 1893 were £8,815 19s 1d for the year terminating April 30 1894, £7,769 0s 7d; for the year ending April 30, 1895, £8,266 6s 11d and for the year ending April 30 1896 £8,093 16s. Thus it will be seen that the first campaign of the new company brought in the largest home gate but in the meantime the season tickets holders had wonderfully increased and no one can tell what the company lost between 1893 and the discovery of certain frauds by the gatekeepers. Indeed it has been computed at £1,000 per season. What revenue to earn in eight months –quite independently of the weather. The players have proved, the magnets. Let us see how the company have rewarded them.
Generously Rewarded.
With no niggard hand have the funds been dispersed. Taking the balance sheets in the same order, we find that in 1893 the players wages and bonuses amounted to £3,539 1s 6d and the training expenses to £306 16s 11d; in 1894 players £4,213 2s 0d, training £268 8s 3d; 1895 players £4,442 13s 0d, training £322 19s 2d and 1896 players £4,257 19s 5d, and training £349 14s 1d. These figures may give some faint idea of what it cost to run a professional team, but they do not take into consideration travelling expenses and the cost of maintaining a great ground. The Everton club have always endeavoured to obtain the services of the best men, and they have treated them well. In 1885-86 they employed George Dobson and George Farmer –these being their first two professionals –and in the following season they imported their first player, Alec Dick, the Kilnarnock full back. Everton possessed in 1886-87 thirty registered professionals actually in hardest while their total importations during the last ten years are, in no stereotyped sense, too numerous to mention. All players are paid good wages and a bonus of £1 for every League match they win. And yet there is generally a balance on the right side of the ledger. That in 1893 the balance was £1,814 7s 5d, 1894 £275 8s 8d; 1895 £2,278 5s 6d and in 1896 £1,967 13s 1d. This football finance is a fascinating theme. Let us again drive into figures to show the wealth of Everton. This balance is obtained by no juggling with figures for the statements “audited and found correct” expose large amounts written off for depreciation and take no comissance of the magnificent ground, Goodison Park, and the value of the team for in these days of transfers there is a price upon every man. The freehold of Goodison Park belongs to the Everton club who in 1895 purchased the 29,471 square yards, it measures from Colonel Naylor Leyland for £8,000 12s 6d.
Ground Development
During the time Everton had the ground on lease they spent altogether about £12,000 represents the cost of the playing enclosure the finest in England, without exception, with commodious covered stands on three sides of the parallelogram. There is a comparatively small mortgage on it but this will vanish in two or, at the most three seasons. A private gallery has been built over the Press box, and if anyone desires an impressive idea of the extent of Everton’s possessions, it is well to mount the staircase and survey the fair scene from this coign of vantage. It is like gazing upon a billiard table built for Brobdingnagians. The site of Goodison Park was originally farm land, but with the development of Walton it degenerated into a mere brickfield, and was nothing but a waste dotted with dirty cesspools when Everton took it in hand. But nowadays it looks a rich green pasture, and is an admirable enclosure in every way. So much space has been devoted to the development of Everton, because these facts are not generally known. Dr. Baxter, who is the chairman of the directors for the second year and one of the original members of the club, takes a most enthusiastic interest in the concern and we have to return our thanks to him to Mr. J. Prescott (chairman of the finance committee) to Mr. J.W. Crawshaw (chairman of the ground committee) and to Mr. R.Molyneux (Secretary) for the information so willingly vouchsafed. Everton have had many famous players. A mere catalogue of names, is unnecessary, but such celebrities as N.J. Ross, John Holt, Edgar Chadwick, Fred Geary, A. Hannah (the Renton back), Daniel Doyle, Alexander Latta, Alfred Milward, Bob Kelso, Bob Howarth, J.Bell, and John Southworth live in football history, and their deeds are well know.
12 Internationals
The captain W. Stewart, who stands 5ft 10 ½ inches high and weighs 13st 2lb is very popular in Liverpool and he deserves to be both for his skill on the field and his exemplary conduct in private life. Originally hailing from Arbroath, he was one of the football stars of the Black-Watch, when Preston North End purchased his discharge from the army in which he had gained great renown as a player. Preston ultimately transferred him to Everton, with happy results, so far as this club is concerned. In 1893-94 Everton had no fewer than twelve internationals in their ranks, and of the English-born players Holt and Chadwick are the most popular. The former is probably the smallest man who ever represented England and at his best. Chadwick who came from Blackburn Rovers, has hardly had a superior as inside-left. His command over the ball is such it seems tied to his ankle with a long boot-lace. Maybe he is a trifle slower than he once was, but he is still splendid forward. Elected to join the League on its formation, the position of Everton has never been in peril. In the third season of the great tournament they won the championship after being second in the previous campaign while in 1894-95 they finished second and in 1895-96 third. In 1892-93 they were the runners up for the English Cup, being beaten one goal to none by Wolverhampton Wanderers at Fallowfield, Manchester. There are the chief honours they have earned. They may not be commensurate with the expenditure, but the result only shows the detractors of Association Football was money, after all cannot buy the laurels of the sport. If so, the said sport would soon languish and die. There is no royal road to success. The enterprise of Everton has deserved more, and the reward will come.
EVERTON’S GRIM FIGHT IN OLD TRAFFORD STRUGGLE
February 16, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Manchester United; Wood, goal; Foulkes and Bryne; backs; Colman, Jones (M), and Edwards, half-backs; Berry, Whelan, Taylor, Viollet, and Pegg, forwards. Everton; Dunlop, goal; Donovan and Tansey, backs; Farrell (captain), Jones (T), and Rea, half-backs; Payne, Gauld, Harris, Fielding, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. H. Webb (Leeds). Everton had a wonderful reception when they took the field for today’s Cup-tie at Old Trafford, and it was evident that the 15,000 supporters from Goodison meant to do their part in encouraging the side. The reception accorded the United was not much stronger than that for the visitors. Farrell won the toss and elected to play with the sun behind him, which meant that Everton also had the breeze in their favour although to some extent it appeared to be blowing diagonally rather than down the pitch. United forced a corner in the second minute when Farrell put the ball behind in order to forestall Taylor, Dunlop fisted Pegg’s flag kick away almost of Taylor’s head. The ground was very soft particularly in front of the main stand where the sun does not get to it and on this portion of the pitch at least the players soon showed that it was going to be difficult to keep a foothold. A smart interception by Donovan brought to a halt. United attack on the left, but Donovan’s pass squared by Gauld to Payne saw the latter slip in the mud, and lose possession.
Farrell Steps In.
A quick throw-in by Berry sent Colman bursting through in dangerous fashion until Farrell again booted the ball behind rather than take risks. Viollet took too much on his own shoulders when he tried to work his way past three men and fell to the weight of numbers. A bad pass by Rea to the feet of Berry led to a sustained movement by United which might have been more dangerous but for the determination of Everton’s rearguard assisted by Fielding and Gauld. Eventually the ball was cleared and Gauld, after beating two men fired just over the bar.
Wood Injured
After 11 minutes a long clearance by Tansey saw Harris outstrip Jones (M) in a race for the ball. Wood collected it on the side edge of the penalty area but was charged by Harris and fell heavily. The game was stopped for three minutes while he received attention and even when resuming he looked dazed. The referee gave a bounce up when the game was resumed. Mark Jones was spoken to by the referee after he had tripped Gauld as the latter was tearing through. A moment later Fielding also had a centre rebuke for a foul on Violett. Everton were now having as much of the play as United and for one brief spell were so far on top that even Tansey came up to have a shot several yards over the bar. Following a free kick by Eglington, Farrell shot narrowly wide and then put in the best scoring effort so far which Wood tipped over.
Tooth and Nail
Everton continued in aggressive vein fighting tooth and nail with nothing to choose between the sides. Donovan headed behind and after Taylor had charged Dunlop as he caught the flag kick. Donovan expressed his displeasure with a nudge which brought a worn of warning from referee Webb. Everton were putting up a grand show and some of United’s defence were looking worried. When Eglington was brought down by Mark Jones’s it seemed than there must be a penalty. Referee Webb waved play on however, and Eglington normally not demonstrative danced in anger and stamped his feet frantically. It was difficult to say whether the offence was on the line or inside it as no line was visible from the Press box but to my mind there was no question that an offence had been committed.
Good Combination
United’s forwards were showing some very good combination but their wing halves, usually auxitary forwards, could not provide the backing they usually do. Whelan had a great chance when Tommy Jones slipped on the treacherous surface. Whelan also partiality slipped but recovered to hit the bar with a fierce drive. Some of United’s tackling was exceptionally biting and Mark Jones upset Harris in more senses than one when he swept his feet from under him. This was real cut and thrust cup-tie football with Everton apart from the first ten minutes the better side. Dunlop made two good saves when United put on tremendous pressure in the last few minutes of the first half. He dived to frustrate Violett in brilliant style and then held a very powerful drive from Edwards. It had been a splendid first half, and Everton had surprised most of those present by there skill tactics and spirit.
Half-time; Manchester United nil, Everton nil.
For the first five minutes after the resumption United kept Everton penned in tier own quarters and Dunlop twice saved from Violett. Everton closed their ranks in splendid fashion and none did better than Farrell a great inspiration to his colleagues.
Eglington Close
When Everton broke away Eglington looked a scorer as he put in a curling shot which seemed to be going out of Wood’s reach but the goalkeeper dived across and deflected it behind. Gauld and Harris paired off neatly only for the latter to shoot into the side netting from a very angled position. The ground had dried out, and conditions were not as bad as at the beginning of the game. United stormed back into the attack in tremendous fashion only for Dunlop to save brilliantly from Taylor at short range. When the ball was put back into the middle by Berry, Taylor’s drive on the half turn hit the post. United were exerting tremendous pressure and Taylor almost skimmed the bar with a header off a corner by Berry.
Dunlop Again
Dunlop who had performed tremendous feats brought off another magnificent close range save off Whelan. For 10 minutes there had been nobody in the United’s territory except Wood. At the 67th minute United’s superiority was rewarded by a goal to Edwards with a low shot from 24 yards which even the heroic Dunlop could not stop. At last Everton got away Farrell taking the ball nearly half the length of the field, but Gauld was offside. Eglington assisting the defence, was beaten by Berry near the corner flag and when the winger crossed the ball Taylor header was no more than inches over the bar. A mistake by Bryne almost let in Gauld who got to the ball first before Wood but the latter stuck out his foot to save. Everton were still fighting and regained the ascendancy for a few minutes. It did not last long however United now playing confidently soon getting back on the attack. Everton had yet another slight chance of the equalizer but it fizzled out when Pegg got away he should have done better than shoot outside with only Dunlop to beat. Final; Manchester United 1, Everton nil, Official attendance 61,803 (Receipts £10,935).
THIS EUROPEAN CUP’S THE STUFF
February 16, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Peter Farrell
There has been quite a lot of controversy about Manchester United’s gallant show against Bilbao last Wednesday week in the European Cup quarter final. Some of the critic described it as one of the greatest ever games, while others, admitting it to be very thrilling, described it as being lacking in good football. My own opinion, from my vantage point on the terraces was that it was the most exciting football game I had ever witnessed. I have never found myself, while watching a game in which Everton were not concerned, so anxiously consulting my watch so often. And again, as I look back it seems strange to think that for the full 90 minutes I was cheering my head off in vocal encouragement for Manchester United while today, only 10 days later, as captain of the Blues, I have been shouting my head off in encouragement to my Everton colleagues hoping it will have the effect of beating Manchester United.
Cup That Cheers
Despite the differences of opinion one thing is certain that the European Cup and in particular the display of Manchester United in it, have certainly captured the imagination of the soccer public throughout the country and even further afield on the Continent. They talk of the missing millions in football in recent years, but fare such as was provided at Maine Road last week would soon bring the crowds flocking back through the turnstiles their appetites whiffed for more. Watching English league football for a number of years the average fan, part from following his favourite side usually has in mind several other sides which he will go out of his way to watch when the occasion arises. It is the brand of football for which these particular sides are renowned, while there are others for obvious reasons which fans wouldn’t go across the road to watch. Football fans are continuously on the look-out for something new in the game in the way of progressive ideas, personalities &c, and therefore when any foreign side visits England particularly if it comes with a big reputation the football public will make a big effort to watch the foreign sides in action.
Just Whats Needed
Up to recently Continental teams visiting here have been engaged in exhibition or friendly games, but through the medium of the European Cup we have had thrillers like that between Manchester United-Bilbao, where not only was prestige at stake but also the bait of further progress in this competition. There is great talk of this European Cup competition being extent. Naturally there will be many snags before something definite is decided in this matter, but I think it is just what the game needs at present to create an added interest for the football public. With more and more clubs installing floodlights, midweek evening games with attractive visitors look very likely to be a general thing of the future. The Blues decisive 5-0 win over Charlton must have been satisfactory to all Evertonians, not so much the score as the manner in which it was achieved in recent weeks there have been many complaints from the fans and rightly so, I suppose of the standard of football which we the Everton players have been serving up. Loyal supporters have been biting their finger nails and anxiously hoping for the final whistle as the Blues have just managed to hang on to a goal lead.
Sit Back and Enjoy
What a different picture against Charlton where, as the second half wore on and Everton dictated the proceedings with a substantial lead in the bag, the fans were able to sit back, relax and enjoy the game almost as much as the players. This lastest Everton display was surely the best the side has given for a very long time. True Charlton were a poor side and seemed to lose heart in the second half, but despite the opposition, what pleased everybody connected with Everton most was the manner in which attacks were developed and rounded off with shots from all angles, something that has been missing from the Everton side for quite a while now. I hope our game against Charlton has been the tonic needed by the lads and that for the remaining of the season the boys will continue to reproduce such a standard of play to the delight of our fans.
THE ALMOST UNBEATABLE DUNLOP OF HIS MANY SAVES…
February 18, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Alone, He (Almost) Did It!
Manchester United 1, Everton 0
Attendance 61,805. Receipts £10,935
By Leslie Edwards
I’ll take Everton, says Edwards –our Saturday headline name true but in the wrong way. It was Duncan Edwards of Manchester United, who took Everton to fifth-round Cup defeat with a goal at the sixty-seven minute. The only goal of a hard, grueling match in which the imitative was with Manchester United almost from first to last. All Manchester must have been despairing of their side beating the almost unbeatable Dunlop when Edwards of the same name picked up one of countless chances his side had and strode a yard or two gathering his strength before hitting the ball all along the ground and just inside the post. This for Dunlop, was the one that got away. Like many an angler he is still measuring the distance by which he failed? People in the stand seats stood up and roared. Everton, to a similar which must have effected than spiritually and set about again the will of stopping a combination of eleven red devils who play like a machine rather than like humans. United ground and wound Everton down to a standstill. Scarcely an Everton player could raise a gallop at the end of the second half in which they were pounded to submission by the world’s best club side. But only by a goal. That in a sentence – Everton’s –one which knocks them out of the Cup. You cannot hope to beat Manchester United if you fire on only nine of eleven cylinders. The near-miracle was that Everton held out so long that they confined the margin to one, that they struggled with such courage when every moment must have laid then that defeat was simple inevitable. I have always said that this was a cup tie lost by McNamara. More pointedly, it was a game lost by the refusal of Referee H. Web to give Everton the penalty they should have had when Byrne brought down Eglington and by the luck goalkeeper Woods enjoyed when Gauld having brilliantly anticipated Byrne’s reverse pass picked up a ball and was on the point of sounding his man when the goalkeeper stretched out a foot to intercept dramatically.
Hawk Like Eye
These were Everton misfortunes. One records them. But one might emphasizes that but for Dunlop, of the hawk like eye and talon like hands and but for Everton’s good fortune to strike Taylor in a day when headers and shots were inching just over the bar instead of just under it. Everton would have lost by nearer ten goals than one- and this in spite of the skill and determination which characterized the defence. Than it was possible to say that the better side won, that Everton’s defence had played to loss than nobly to counter the massive, almost continuous attacks made on it and never more menacingly than by that desperate second half. If Everton tired, so did their opponents. The stickiness of the muddied pitch; and the pace at which the game was played meant that anyone respects in stamina was found out immediately. For ten minutes United cut and carved they way to success on the wings, with Dunlop and his backs and half backs continually under pressure. That opening blitz survived, one sensed Everton might find their feet and the confidence to do what they did last October. Fielding and Eglington then partly fulfilled the promise, and Gauld, despite being offside too often. Presented to saw through the defence in one of his charactertically individual runs. The game toughened.
Rated A Penalty
But I am convinced that Byrne’s tackle on Eglington rated a penalty. Eglington appealed as well he might, Referee Webb saw nothing wrong, despite the fact that Eglington was in the box, was on the ball and was a yard or two ahead of Byrne when the tackle came. Dunlop the man who was at Goodison Park seven seasons and he got his first big chance was meanwhile holding the Everton fort almost single-handed. He saved twice from Violett in quick succession the second a glorious catch. He saved from Taylor, from Edwards and again from Taylor. They were hard-hit shots all on target, but Dunlop with his decisive movement and quick sure hands, took then as he might a cricket ball of Aigburth. No man was ever more deserving of being on the winning side, no man ever did more to earn the ovation he received from friend and foe as he walked off-field. Such masterly goalkeeping week by week has not been lost on those who follow Everton, Dunlop’s international day must come. The pity was that he had to finish on the losing side here. That sentiment applies also to many of those who worked unceasingly to shield their goalkeeper from an attack which plays with the understanding of a line of internationals Manchester United have no palpable weakness. They may not be eleven world-beaters individually, but collectively they are the finest team the game has known since Arsenal were winning all along the line. And they are mostly young enough to last for many, many seasons. Everton lost because they carried too much dead-weight on a pitch and in a match which called for top form from everyone. I am assured that both Jimmy Payne and Jimmy Harris were fit. The melancholy fact is that Everton could not win with two Jimmy’s as dismal as these were Mark Jones closed the way on Harris, Payne has never played more indifferently in a match in which everyone hoped he would produce his splendid best. These weaknesses seriously unbalanced the side. To dispossess United s difficult; to frame an attack against them is doubly so. The initiative which Everton might have gained was nearly always in their opponents’ hands. They dictated. Everton countered and countered again, with all hands to the pumps and little time for respite.
Too Eager
The occasional long-range through pass once a United attack, had been held was virtually Everton’s only hope. Gauld spoiled several of these promising movements by his over-eagerness to be off. The waste of effort by Everton half backs in getting the ball upfield to forwards who could not carry the movement further was shocking and must have had psychological affect on those who had done the donkey work. Farrell and Rea did their utmost even when they must have been weary they found the stamina and will to carry the ball up. But it was no use. Similarly Fielding (who worked unceasingly constructively and destructively) and Eglington who rarely did wrong, could not make the line move as a line. And it had little chance, as a threesome, to break a defence which plays with admirable understanding. Dunlop, of course was the man of the match, but his backs, Donovan and Tansey, lent magnificent aid with a tackle here and a nod for a corner there. Both faced the storm of United’s attacking with brave, well-ordered football hearts. Though Everton lost this was a match to remember for the valiants of the side –Dunlop, Donovan, Tansey leading them. Because United make full use of those devastating wings of theirs Donovan and Tansey had mountains of work. The United half backs, having settled the Everton attack, sailed in with additional weight and finally it was Edwards as big and strong as little Colman is slight and short, who made the decisive thrust.
Fine Heading
After Dunlop, Taylor did more than any other to impress his England claims. His headwork was extraordinary fine. Often Dunlop looked up and hoped as bulleting headers from Taylor, whizzed inches outside post or bar. It was never a great match, but always a great occasion with the winners so much on top and Dunlop and company denying them so often there was always the lurking hope of reply. As it happens Everton, owing to Preston’s draw with Arsenal, have no match on Wednesday. Had Everton known Preston were unavailable they would have assuredly asked Matt Busby to bring his boys here for a rearranged League match which would have had all Liverpool wanting to be there again. Everton are now left with cup memories of what might have been. What might have been had Gauld played in the centre with young Thomas on his left what might have been if McNamara and Kirby had been given their second tilt against United in Manchester. About these one can only conjecture. Certainly the way is now clear for Everton to try some youngsters in the hope they will unearth men of the calibre of Rea and Dunlop. I forecast that the time between now and the end of the season will be put to good use in this –the only-way.
EVERTON RES 1, BLACKBURN ROVERS RES 0
February 18, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
A goal by Tomlinson shortly after the interval sufficed to give Everton Reserves both points at Goodison Park in a game where most of the honours went to the respective defences. O’Neill for instance, did not put a foot or hand wrong and at least three of his saves were of a high order. It was Birch, however, who really caught the eye. He was the complete wing half and his several first-rate scoring attempts were a lesson to an Everton front line that too-often made that one extra pass too many.
EVERTON PUT UP A GOOD FIGHT, BUT UNITED WERE TOO STRONG#
February 18, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
One of the most significant facts connected with Everton’s Cup exit at Old Trafford was something I stumbled on only because I did not return with the official party. Leaving the ground immediately at the finish and mingling with home-bound Everton supporters I found that the majority had not thrown away their blue rosettes and other favours but were still wearing them with pride even if tinged with keen disappointment. You can chuck that away now, “said a Manchester United supporter to an Evertonian in our packed like sardines-in-a-tin railway carriage back to the centre of Manchester. He was pointing to an outsize blue rosette with a silver cardboard cup struck in the centre. “Not likely” was the replay, “I’ll pull the cup off” –which he did –“but I’m sticking to the rest. We gave you a jolly good run for your money, and we have nothing to be ashamed off.” His remarks summed up the game as well as anything I can say. Everton’s followers had nothing to be ashamed of- and neither had the team. The gally-bedecked thousands from Merseyside were full of good cheer and high hopes before the game. Ninety minutes later the hopes had been dashed but they were still as cheerful as followers of a beaten side can be. They had no reason to squirm in their seats as they listened to the Mancunians in our carriage saying their piece. To the credit of the latter, they were the first to admit that Everton had out the wind up them in the first half and paid tribute to the wonderful fighting spirit of the Blues defence.
They Look Worried
Apart from the five minutes at the start and end of the first half, Everton looked a better side up to the interval. They played grand football, fought like demons for the ball lacked strongly and effectively and if only they could have taken a leading goal I might be writing a very different story today. They had the measure of the opposition in a manner which few had anticipated. Only a brilliant save by Wood are vented a great shot by Farrell giving the Blues the tonic which might possibly have changed the course of the game considerably. The United’s defence Byrne excepted, began to look very worried and were not too particular something as to now they used their weight or how they tackled. At the half-hour there came another incident which could have swayed the game in Everton’s favour. Eglington bursting through with only Wood to beat was tripped by the home centre-half. At the time I could not swear whether the offence was inside or outside the penalty area, as the far penalty line was not visible but to my mind there was no doubt about it being a foul.
What Players Say
All the Everton lads however, say the offence was a good foot to eighteen inches inside the area. But Referee Webb refused the appeal, so that was the end of that despite the dervish like dance but which Eglington expressed his ire. A hint of what was in store came just before the interval when United who are so far had looked nothing like triple crown winners, crammed on full sail, and might have taken the lead but for two great saves by Dunlop and a woodwork interception which foiled Whelan. In the second half, there was only one team in it for half an hour. Yet Everton might still have been the first to score but for another brilliant save by Wood, who dived to his let to turn a strong shot from Eglington outside the post. The ball was going away from him all, the time and considering how badly he had been shaken earlier in a collision with Harris, Wood did well to prevent this one beating him. That, however, was Everton’s only chance until right on the finish when Bryne made his only mistake and a weak backpass to the goalkeeper almost presented Gauld with the equalizer.
Powerful Stuff
Had Gauld scored, however, it would have been an injustice to United. There was no denying that the home side deserved to win on the balance of their second half superiority which was far more pounced and overwhelming than the first half edge enjoyed by Everton. For thirty minutes United swarmed to the attack like bees round a jam-pot. They kept the Blues penned in their own half almost the whole time, and only galliant defensive work by the whole Everton rearguard limited them to a single goal margin. United produced far more shots than Everton. They simply peppered Dunlop from all angles and as time went on if became increasingly clear that if Everton survived it would be something of a miracle. Fate decided that they were not to do so. Duncan Edwards goal at the 67th minute sealed the issue. But for more wonderful work by Dunlop the margin would have been more convincing.
Taylor A Menace
Every man in the Everton defence played a hero’s past in endeavouring to stem the United flood, and though top marks go to Dunlop the whole rearguard emerged with credit from their most testing and strenuous ordeal. Donovan has rarely played better, Tansey was cool and competent Jones was the equal of Taylor on all occasions but corners when United’s plan which put the centre half at a big disadvantage almost paid of more than once. The idea is for Taylor to lay well back and then to dash in at top speed to connect with his head. On half a dozen occasions he almost skimmed the bar from flag kicks. Rea was not quite so effective under heavy pressure as some of his colleagues. He lacks the weigh to go with the ability and this was a day when an extra stone or so counted for a lot. But he stuck to his task courageously, and apart from some misplaced passes, of which there were comparatively few on either side, he shaped as well as could be expected against such all-out aggression. Unfortunately the Blues’s forward line was unable to maintain its first half promise. The turning point came when Everton’s wing halves which earlier on had helped to spilt the home defence, were forced back on the defensive in order to hold the United’s onslaught. That left United’s wing halves free to roar in the open spaces and perform their favouritis role of auxiliary forwards. One of the Everton supporters with whom, I travelled back to Manchester maintained that the Blues made a mistake in going back on defence. They didn’t do that of their own free will. The United’s tremendous urge to attack gave them no option. The Mancunians pressure was such that few teams could have wrested the initiative from them during that vital thirty minutes. They had Everton on the spot and they knew it. That is a big psychological advantage in any knock-out game. It was power football played at top pace, with United having the stamina to keep it up in the heavy going against a team which was clearly flagging. Edwards was the key man in the United side. He seemed everywhere in the second half and his strength is such that he is most difficult to shift of the ball, Violett and Taylor were always a danger. Whelan was inclined to hang on too long and better Pegg nor Berry played as well as they can at their best. The United’s defence will no better than Everton’s. It was the attack, backed by Colman and Edwards that gave United the big pull at the more vital stage of the game. Harris tried hard enough and looked dangerous in the first half, as also did Gauld, but neither had anything outstanding to show in the shooting line. Fielding wilted in the closing stages, which was not surprising and Payne was rarely in the picture against Burns.
EVERTON HISTORY
February 21, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Sir-Thank you for your History of Everton F.C in last Saturday’s Daily Post. After his playing days were over Jack McGill took up refereeing and shortly before his death was scouting for the club. I married his eldest daughter, I remember reading his report after watching Jack Crayston, the present Arsenal manager, as a player. Evidently the directors did not think the same as Jack. J. Reid, Holy Bank, Frodsham.
EVERTON SEEK FIRST WIN AT HIGHBURY
February 22, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s trip to London to meet Arsenal may look like being unprofitable, for the Gunners have been performing extremely well at home in recent months, but they are about due for a reverse, and this partial or complete might be it. The last time they lost at Highbury was on September 29, when Manchester United won 2-1. From nine subsequent home games the Gunners have taken 16 points, only Sunderland, and Portsmouth managing to hold them to a draw. When Arsenal were at Goodison at the end of October, Everton fresh from their 5-2 victory at Old Trafford, gave another good display. Their 4-0 win was proof, if any were needed, that even the Londoners’ usually solid rearguard can be overcome if the right tactics are adopted. The last six words are the operative ones. Mr. Jack Crayston, who took over the managership of Arsenal following the death of Mr. Tom Whittaker three days before the game at Everton, has been fortunate, in that nearly all the regular members of the senior side have managed to steer clear of injury. An exception is Welsh international goalkeeper Jack Kelsey, who only returned to the side for Tuesday’s Cup replay with Preston after missing seven matches with a damaged finger. Elsewhere however the rearguard has been almost unchanged for a long time. Full backs Stan Charlton and Liverpool-born Dennis Evans, also centre half Bill Dodgin, have played in every game to date.
A Strong Attack
Young David Herd has been scoring freely as leader of the attack, his winning goal against Preston on Tuesday bringing his total to 15 in 16 League and Cup outings. Inside right Derek Tapscott has lent first-class support as a marksman, and is actually top scorer with 17 goals. There is also great scoring potential in the left wing partnership of Eddie Bloomfield and diminutive Joe Harverty, who has kept Tommy Eglington out of the Eire team this winter. Everton have not won a League game at Higbury since the war. In seven visits they have drawn once –in 1947-8 – and lost six times, the goal average being 20-8 in the Gunner’s favour. Owing to Rea being unfit Everton make two changes – one positional –in their intermediate line, Farrell crossing over to left half and Birch coming in at right half. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; Payne, Gauld, Harris, Fielding, Eglington.
THEN AND NOW
February 23, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
A season ago Everton, at Arsenal, were on the eve of the Britton bombshell. They played very well indeed on a snow-covered pitch; indeed the Arsenal manager of that day, the late Tom Whittaker, said they produced the best football he had seen for seasons. Everton are much changed meanwhile, and so are Arsenal and the fact that Arsenal face a cup-tie a week hence against West Bromwich Albion means that Everton’s chances of repeating their 4-0 victory at Goodison Park earlier in the season are better than they might have been. Certainly Everton will be facing a side less strong than the one they met a week ago. Yet Arsenal now under the Crayston banner, are still difficult to beat at Highbury and this is essentially an open issue. Birch comes back to the Everton half-back line as a result of Rea’s injury, Farrell is switched to left half-back where he plays with equal facility. The occasion will be notable in that it will give Vic Groves Arsenal’s transfer-listed centre forward, his first senior game since last November. Liverpool-born Dennis Evans misses his first game in more than two years of service as an Arsenal back following an injury received in the Cup replay against Preston last Wednesday. Arsenal; Kelsey; Charlton, Willis; Holton, Dodgin, Bowen; Clapton, Tapscott, Groves, Bloomfield, and Haverty. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; Payne, Gauld, Harris, Fielding, Eglington.
DUNLOP-STRUCK-IN-MUD GAVE ARSENAL A GOAL
February 23, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Slither and Slide on Highbury’s Mud-Patch
Arsenal 2, Everton 0
Arsenal; Kelsey, goal; Charlton and Wills, backs; Holton, Dodgin, and Bowen, half-backs; Clayton, Tapscott, Groves, Bloomfield, and Haverty, forwards. Everton; Dunlop, goal; Donovan and Tansey, backs; Birch, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. A.E. Ellis (Halifax). Heavy rain for several hours before the start had turned the Highbury pitch into something preceding a lake except at the corners, there was a considerable doubt an hour before the star whether the match could be played. Mr. Ellis however said it would be all right and though the mud in some places could not be seen from the Press-box, it was surprising that no groundsmen were sent out to fork the ground to get rid of the surplus water particularly in the goal areas. This could not have a great deal or affect for the rain was still coming down heavily but it might have restored the goals.
Bowen’s Shot
A neat movement between Clayton and Bowen saw them move the ball through to such good purpose that Bowen was able to take a shot from 24 yards which was only just off target. Then Charlton slipped in the and the ball ran out of his control. Eglington was through at top speed only for his strong low angled shot to be patted down and cleared. Straight from this Arsenal broke away and linesman trying to keep up with the play came a cropper in the mud and slid along on his stomach. When he got up he was covered from chest to foot with mud. The only part of the pitch where the players could be reasonably sure what the ball was going to do were a few square yards in each corner. Elsewhere it was a hit and miss affair. Arsenal forced two corners in quick succession on the right from each of which Tapscott head over.
Arsenal Dominant
Arsenal were the more dominant side and kept coming through at top speed, Everton’s defence however gave them no rope though Dunlop was a little fortunate to save at close range from Clayton. Eglington was prominent more than once on the visiting left. Considering the treacherous conditions the play was quite entertaining and the ball was being kept on the ground with greater ease than usual. The mud did not so far have any great “dragging” effect but several times players who lost their footing slid hard on the slippery surface. Arsenal continued to force corners with regularity and got there sixth when they had been in progress for 15 minutes. Like the rest it produced no threat. At the 18th minute Arsenal took the lead through Holton following a period of strong attack. The home side were fortunate that the ball twice rebounded to one of their men after shots had been blocked. And then Dunlop made an error of judgment in running aimless to the edge of the penalty area without being sure of getting the ball. Before he could reach it, Bloomfield switched it back to the middle where Holton rammed a lob shot into the untendered goal from 18 yards.
Fighting Back
Everton fought back spiritedly and following a free kick by Payne, Gauld had a good effort saved at close range y Kelsey and Harris headed inches over the bar. The rain had now ceased and much of the surface water had disappeared leaving the ground a sea of mud on which players continued to slither about frequently out of control. In more than half a dozen instances the numbers on their shirts had been completely obliterated and it was almost impossible to tell whether their shorts were white or not.
Tricky Forwards
Arsenal continued to hold the advantage and with their tricky inside forwards getting a good service of the ball from Holton and Bowen the visiting defence was fully extended. Dunlop made a great save at almost point-blank range off Bloomfield after Haverty’s trickness had carved out an opening and then at the 37th minute Everton had a lucky left-off when Wills missed a penalty. The origin of the spot-kick arose from another error of judgment by Dunlop though in this case he was unfortunate in losing his footing hen running out to cut off Clayton. The winger at once lofted the ball over the prone body of Dunlop towards the on running Haverty but Jones leaping high in the air tried to palm it away. Wills took the spot kick very nonchalantly and put it almost a yard on the wrong side of the woodwork. Everton had a great chance to get on level terms, just before the interval when Payne put Gauld in possession and the inside man running nearly half the length of the field looked almost a certain scorer; Kelsey however ran out and Gauld’s shot struck him on the legs and rebounded to safely.
Half-time; Arsenal 1, Everton nil.
Both teams turned out in clean shirts and shorts for the resumption but within five minutes several of them again were clutched up almost to the eyebrows. Offside twice pulled up Arsenal when they were looking dangerous. Birch also nipped in to put an end to a menacing situation, and when at last Everton got away and Harris cleverly flicked Gauld’s centre on to Eglington the latter should have done better than fire a yard over the bar.
Everton’s Best Move
Everton’s best move started with Tansey, well inside his own half and saw Birch, Gauld, Payne, and Harris combine by such a manner that the ball was taken three parts the length of the field without an Arsenal man touching it. Harris’s final effort was a rather weak header over the bar. Arsenal should have gone further ahead when Tapscott ran through the defence and squared the all for Haverty who had nothing to do but slug it home from four yards range. Instead he fired behind. Then Groves headed over from even lesser distance. A slide clearance by Dodgin Everton’s persistence wore down the opposition to such an extent that in a couple of minutes Dunlop was the only man in the Everton half and both Farrell and Donovan struck defenders with likely looking shots. Everton kept pegging away and if their finishing had been on a pair with some of their approach work they might have got on level terms. They had spasms of precise combination which was something to achieve on the surface but nearly every attack sizzled out in face of Arsenal’s stonewall defence. Harris did get one shot in, but it was while on the turn and Kelsey had the easiest of tasks. Ten minutes from the finish Arsenal scored a second goal when Tapscott steered the ball in down a very narrow angle, after Haverty had done all the leading up work. The ball seemed to touch an Everton player on the leg before entering the net. Final; Arsenal 2, Everton nil. Official attendance 30,362.
I’VE MET DEFEAT ELEVEN TIMES
February 23, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
By Peter Farrell
This is the eleventh occasion I have experienced the disappointed of a Cup defeat as an Everton player. Players have many differenent opinions as to which round of the Cup is the most disappointing to make your exit. My own view, based on experience is that the semi-final round is the worst stage of the competition to be elimated, as it is a bitter pill to swallow to get so near to a Wembley appearance before being defeated. Another angle of Cup defeats is that it is not quite so disappointing to be beaten by a First Division side as it is when a Second or Third Division club knocks you out. On this latter point, I suppose it was no disgrace to be beaten by a side of the calibre of Manchester United by 1-0. Hardly any critic gave the Blues much chance of victory against the champions and now near we came to surprising these people. Especially in the first half, only those of you who saw the game know. #
Disappointed
The highlights and details of the game you have all either seen or read about. Suffice it for me to mention that I was very disappointed when I trooped off Old Trafford last week and made that visit to the opponents dressing room that has been my lot so often down the years as captain of the Blues to wish the victors the best of luck for future progress in the Cup. All the lads were disappointed as the entire Everton camp were very confident of confounding the critics with a win. Once again it is my pleasant duty on behalf of my players t thank our loyal supporters for the wonderful support and vocal encouragement they gave us at old Trafford. Although outnumbered by something like four to one, the Evertonians more than held their own with the Mancunians when it came to cheering their favourities. This is nothing now, as it is a thrill we Everton players experience each year in Cup ties in victory and defeat, and I should like to reinsure all loyal Evertonians how much it is appreciated by the players.
Twist Of Fate
I am sure you fans, even in defeat feel that the lads didn’t let you down, as all the players gave 100 per cent effort, which just wasn’t sufficient against such a team as United on the day. It is surprising the Blues twists of fate that means so much in important cup ties. When Tommy Eglington appeared to be tripped in the penalty area in the first half I appealed to the referee to consult his linesman, where upon the official informed me that he had already looked towards the linesman whose mod of the head had confirmed that he considered the tackle fair. there are always many “ifs and Buts” attached to Cup-ties but lets be honest and admit that Manchester United deserved their success and I personally would like to see them win the Cup as it is always a pleasure to play against them.
A Great Side
They are a great side with as abundance of ability in their ranks and eleven players who grate from start to finish and never know when they are beaten. It is a ambition of mind to play at Wembley, so it is of most footballers. Naturally I should like to play on this great pitch in a blue jersey and each year as I get a year older this chance grows less. Still, I shall be keeping my fingers crossed between now and next May in the hope that I may win my place back on the Eire team to oppose England at wembley in May. It is only a hope, but one never knows. During my few days at Blackpool I met former Evertonian Jock Dodds. Big “Jack” looked great and still has a very warm spot for the Blues whose fortunes he fellows closely.
EVERTON RES V LIVERPOOL RES
February 23, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Res; O’Neill, goal; Sutherland and Leeder, backs; King, Sanders, and Meagan, half-backs; Tomlinson, Thomas, Mayers, Vizard and Williams (JD), forwards. Liverpool Res; Rudham, goal; Campbell (r) and Byrne, backs; Saunders, Nicholson, and Burkinshaw, half-backs; Bimpson, Wheater, Arnoll, Rowley, and Lockery, forwards. Referee; Mr. K.G Stubbs (Stoke-on-Trent). Saunders skippered Liverpool in the absence of McNulty, for whom Campbell (R) dropped back to right back, with Burkinshaw coming in at left half. Liverpool were the first on the attack but in appalling conditions Sutherland had no difficulty in clearing. Both sides were having difficulty in moving the ball any distance and this was demonstrated when Mayers with plenty of time failed to reach the goal from inside the penalty area. Locker tried to centre but the ball fell well short of the goal and came back to him. This time he sent in a well placed shot which O’Neill did well to save. Meagan started the first real move of the game when he ran through to gain a corner which was easily cleared. Bimpson was continually helping out in defence and he was one of the few players who seemed to be able to move the ball any distance. Rowley shot just over the bar for Liverpool and at the other end both Thomas and Vizard were inches wide with Rudham well beaten. Bimpson was responsible for many Liverpool attacks, and his stream of centres and passes caused the Everton defence many anxious moments. Howley missed a good chance of putting Liverpool ahead, but only a yard or so from the goalline he missed his kick. The play was mostly in midfield and both teams were understandably bogged down by the mud. Everton, however, showed promise in attack, especially through the left wing of Vizard and Williams and just on the interval a cross from Williams found King, whose terrific shot was blocked by a Liverpool defender. Half-time; Everton Res nil, Liverpool nil. Match abandoned a half-time.
NO PUNCH IN THEIR FINISHING
February 25, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Ranger
Arsenal 2, Everton 0
Considering the wretched underfoot conditions, this game was far better than expected. There was quite a lot of entertaining play, and though the mistakes multiplied the longer it went, and in the closing stages some of the older players hardly had the strength to drag their feet from the cloying grip of the mud, this was not to be wondered at. It was a day when one expected the defenders to be on top, for the man who had only to clear the ball had an easier task than those who sought to manipulate it. While to a large extent I worked out that way, on several occasions both attacks had the opposing defenders more than a little anxious. This was particularly so with some of Everton’s first half approach work. An hour before the start it seemed probable that the game might be postponed. The whole playing area, apart from diagonal stretches near the corner flags, was under water and there appeared no hope of the incessant rain ceasing. Referee Ellis, however, decided that the pitch, though undoubtedly near the border line, was good enough to warrant a start, whatever happened later.
Old Failing
Everton were at their best in the first half. They moved the ball quickly and combined accurately and while some moves which promised well got bogged down before Kelsey was called upon, there was always the possibility that they might cash in on the home side’s tendency to an occasional nerviness in defence. Unfortunately their old failing –lack of finish after good approach work- proved Everton’s undoing. several times the ball was worked more than half the length of the field without an Arsenal player touching it, yet the move fizzled out either through bad shooting a pass too many, or because somebody lost control at the critical moment. Gauld was the biggest offender in the latter direction, yet he was, until unable to raise a gallop in the closing stages always the most menacing-looking visiting forward. The visitors had gone behind at the eighteen minute when Dunlop after saving brilliantly at close range from Clayton, was all at sea as Holton scored from twenty yards Dunlop had run out almost to the edge of the penalty area failed to gather the ball, and was “miles” from goal when Holton drove in a low shot which Birch vainly tried to reach.
Missed Penalty
Arsenal would have been two up before the interval had not Wills taken a penalty far too nonchalantly and pushed it outside. The award arose when Dunlop unluckily slipped in the mud as he left goal to forestall Clayton and Jones attempted to palm away the latter’s high cross ball. There was no fear of the centre entering the net, and had Jones let I go it is doubtful whether Arsenal would have scored. Jones, however, was not in a position to realize this. In the second half it was mainly a battle between Arsenal’s attack and Everton’s defence, though the game was by no means overwhelmingly one-sided. Everton had many periods of pressure, and continued to try to play good football. By this time, however, they had lost much of their earlier balance, resiliency, and stamina.
Clinching Goal
Everton had a let off when Haverty missed an open goal from four yards and Groves headed inches over. Though it was not until ten minutes from the end that Tapscott put the issue beyond all doubt. It was evident long before that, that Everton were fighting a losing battle. Their defence could not be blamed. Though Dunlop was not the confident and commanding goalkeeper that we have seen in recent games, and was floundering on three occasions when falling to get the ball after dashing yards out of his goal, he made some excellent saves. It was a day on which anybody could make mistakes-and almost everybody did at some time or other –and criticism should be tempered with appreciation of the unusual difficulties. Both backs played well. Their rare slips never led to real danger, and they dovetailed well, with Jones in covering one another. Jones apart from his handling offence never lost his composure. He was in difficulties at times, which was understandable, and in the earlier stages was sometimes drawn out of position by the wandering Groves, but like the rest of his colleagues, he put up a solid display under very testing conditions. Farrell and Birch worked manfully, particularly in the second half, when they did all they could to infuse some punch into the attack by taking the ball up themselves on many occasions. Both stuck the killing pace well, and on this showing Birch deserves encouragement.
MR. BUCHAN’S VISIT PROVED IN VAIN
February 25, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Ian Hargreaves
Everton Res 0, Liverpool Res 0
(Abandoned after 45 minutes)
With no match between Everton and Liverpool’s senior sides this season Saturday’s Central League game was the nearest Merseyside could boast to a local derby. Both teams had been doing remarkably well, and so much interest had been generated that Everton’s coach Ian Buchan elected to go to Goodison in preference to watching the first team in action against Arsenal. Unfortunately for Mr. Buchan, and for the few hundred brave spirits who shivered hopefully in the sopping stands, the weather reduced proceedings to a farce, and the referee Stubbs had no choice but to call a halt at the interval. Not that the forty-five minutes of play were without incident. Quite the contrary. On a churned up layer of slush resembling some brand of super-scouse, player, ball and officials enacted a comedy of which the Crazy Gang would have been proud. Within a minute Sanders gave an excellent impersonation of a circus clown when they sat down with more haste than dignify, and other turns followed thick and fast to keep everyone in good humour. Sweeping passes stopped dead after travelling two or three feet, possession became a positive hazard, and once Mayers apparently in full sail, went sprawling over the ball in an attempt to stop it submerging.
Undaunted
Yet both teams deserve praise for their refusal to admit defeat. Whenever they could scoop the ball out to the merely muddy wings we saw flashes of real football, and one or two moves from Everton were worthy of a far finer setting. Sanders and Meagan played quite brilliantly at half-back for Everton and on the Liverpool side Byrne must have impressed everyone present with his skill positioning and powers of anticipation. The forwards were at a tremendous disadvantage but all buckled to with a will and despite the downpour were doing better at the end than at the beginning. Mayers managed to extricate himself from the slush by intelligent wandering, and with Williams and Tomlinson giving good support the Everton line functioned the more smoothly. But near the end Liverpool were finding their feet and with Bimpson, spurred on by his youthful admirers, looking increasingly dangerous on the right anything could easily have happened.
TROUBLE IN THE OFFING IF EVERTON KEEP ON LIKE THIS
February 25, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Every year I write about a million words representing approximately five million taps on a typewriter, if I didn’t have to keep referring to Everton’s lack of finishing power I could save myself an awful lot of work. Could all the muscular effort I expend on tapping typewriters to tell you the old, old story by some miraculous method be turned into shooting by Everton, they would burst the back of every football net that faced them. It was the same weak finishing against Highbury on Saturday just as it has been so often and for as long that I despair of finding new variations on the old refrain. It becomes monotonous this one-string fiddle business on so many Mondays. But don’t blame me I can only report what happens not what I would like to happen. And the team’s performances unfortunately have had a stereotyped look about them for several seasons. Sometimes ago I gave a table of Everton’s goals for and against in all the completed post-war campaigns. In not one senior season have they scored more goals themselves were registered against them. You cannot expect much success on such an insecure foundation. The best you can hope for is to keep out of really serious trouble. And sometimes that hope proved ill-founded. The same thing is happening again. Look at the figures 43 goals for in 30 matches and 56 against. As nine of the 43 were scored in two games that leaves 34 as the meager total from the other 28 games. This is where we came in years ago. As the goals for gradually fell some seasons back I forecast trouble round the corner if the overworked defence cracked. It cracked all right, and along came the inevitable –a spell in the Second Division. Is there danger of history repeating itself? How long can the present defence carry the bulk of the burden? When are we going to see a forward line which can produced so many shots in a game we shall need the fingers of more than one hand to count them?
Finger and Thumb Over
One hand was more than sufficient to cope with the shots the Blues served up at Highbury. You had a finger and a thumb left over. It was to some extent a repetition of the Old Trafford cup-tie –little to choice between the sides in the first half, then the Everton defence having to fight hard in the second portion to prevent the margin against them being widened to much larger proportions. Just as it has been on so many occasions this season and previously the forward line served up some quite attractive approach football until getting within shooting distance. Then there was not enough punch to burst a paper bag. Even the claim for good marks in approach work began to look tarnished when Arsenal took over the initiative in the last 25 minutes. Though the game was nothing like so one sides as the Old Trafford match. This time there could be no execise that the support of the wing halves was missing. Often enough Farrell and Birch came through . in the second half Arsenal turned to the more powerful type of play, and only some good saves by Dunlop and grimly determined work by Donovan, Farrell, and the test of the rearguard limited them to one additional goal. It was the sort of day on which anybody could make mistakes, I am not critical of the attack just finishing display alone. The disease and ill symptoms have been in evidence for too long. The main question is what to do about it to avoid trouble in the future. Unless there is going to be a buying spree which from all accounts is unlikely I can only repeat what I have suggested before that the rest of the season should be devoted to seeing how some of the lesser lights in the Central League side can shape.
Not Dunlop’s Best
To return to the Highbury game. Dunlop was not at his best, and was the only man in the defence who did not get maximum marks. His judgment in coming out was at fault more than once. When the first goal was scored he was twelve yards away when Holton netted, having left home to chase a ball he never had the slightest hope of getting. Against his passes, however, we can set some first-class saves and much secure catching of a greasy and slippery ball. Human frailty on a day when it was easy enough to take the wrong turning should not be over-emphasized. Dunlop was unlucky in one instance when he slipped and Tommy Jones was tempted to leap high in the air and handle the ball as it came across. O doubt whether anybody would have scored had Jones let it go, and in any event the penalty was not turned to account by Wills who shot outside. That was a lucky let-off. Gauld missed a great chance by leveling matters just before the interval when he was clean through, after a splendid run and then hung on too long and lost his chance. The volume of Arsenal’s second half pressure though relieved by several Everton raids told its tale in the closing stages when Tapscott toe-ended the ball in to settle the issue beyond any possible doubt.
Losing Battle
Apart from those occasions when Everton managed to escape Arsenal’s second half strange-hold –they had one bright period when they were well on top-they usually seemed to be fighting a losing battle. The forward line had gone to pieces and though it came to life with an occasional burst, there was never anything really dangerous about it. Kelsey did not have a single shot worth mentioning in the last 45 minutes. Birch had an excellent game. He is stronger than Rea, both in the tackle and in staying power, and he and Farrell tried desperately hard to put some punch into things. Their only fault, if that’s the right word, was a tendency to occasionally go through too far. They might have done better to send the ball on its way sooner. But in face of forward failings somebody had to have a go. Both backs played soundly throughout though now and again they were so hard pressed that their clearance tended to be somewhat haphazard. But they cleared their lines well, which was the main object. Although Gauld and Eglington were the most prominent forwards, they did not produce the shots to match.
EVERTON TACKLE THE MOST IMPROVED SIDE OF THE SEASON
February 16, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Preston North End, one of the most improved sides in the First Division during recent months visit Goodison Park tomorrow in a re-arranged League match. It was postponed because both clubs were engaged in the F.A. Cup on the original date. This provides a very attractive to-bit for those who have Wednesday off, but Everton will have to polish up their finishing if they are to hold another home victory to their list. Sparkling midfield work is little use if there no “end product” to it. The Blues have a very good home record since they pulled themselves out of the morast in which they were floundering at the start of the season. They have not been beaten at Goodison Park since October 13, having eon nine and drawn two of their subsequent League and Cup matches. Preston have also been doing well recently in away games having won five, drawn four and lost only one of their last ten such League and Cup engagements counting the neutral ground replay with Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison as an away match. The one defeat was their exit from the Cup in a replay at Highbury last week. Since Mr. Cliff Britton took over at Deepdale last September they have lost only three league matches- all of them away, and there is a balance and promise about the Preston side these days which has not been in evidence for a season or two. The forward line is getting plenty of goals which is the first considering while the defence has been keeping down the goals against which is equally as important.
Championship Form
Preston started the season badly, losing their first four matches. Things looked pretty ominous but since then they have steadily ascended the table until today they occupy third position with 38 points from 30 matches. Actually they have taken all these points from 26 games, bearing in mind the four opening reverses. The is almost championship form. One very vital change which has had a big effect upon the side’s performances this season was the switching just before Mr. Britton took over, of Tom Finney from outside right to centre forward. More than any other move this has helped to put the team in its present happy position. Many football folk felt that this was a very doubtful experiment but anybody who saw Preston win their Cup replay against Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park six weeks ago was left in doubt as to Finney’s value as leader of attack, despite the fact that he did not get on the scorers list that day. He put a new slant on the duties of the man in the middle and showed how frequently an accomplished footballer can make golden opportunities with the men alongside him. This is a point the Everton rearguard and Tommy Jones in particular will have to watch tomorrow. Finney is an adept at drawing the defence out of position, taking the centre half with hint on his excursions and then slipping the ball adroitly to a colleague who has run into an open and good shooting space. If Jones has to mark Finney closely, and follows him on his wandering it behoves the rest of the home defence to see that there are no wide open spaces left for somebody else to operate. Close marking is all right providing everybody is doing it thoroughly, and that when a gap is created by a defender temporarily leaving his post somebody else sees that the bar goes up to others who endeavour to take advantage of the fact. In their League matches this season Preston have not been beaten at home since August 20, when they lost to Manchester United. Away from home they have defeated Arsenal, Leeds United, Charlton, Cardiff City and Newcastle. They have also drawn at Portsmouth, Luton, Tottenham, Burnley and West Bromwich.
Marksmen’s Race
A very close race is going on between Thompson and Finney for the title of leading marksman. At the moment Thompson leads the way with 23 in league and cup, against Finney’s 22. Finney’s total includes four from the penalty spot. These two while well ahead of anybody else, are by no means the only forwards likely to get goals. Outside left Taylor has scored 12 and inside left Baxter has got nine. Preston have made very few changes in their composition this season. Although the only ever-present in the side are goalkeeper Else and left full back Walton, several of the others have missed very few games. Cunningham has been absent only once, Dunn and Baxter, Finney and Docherty have missed three games, Taylor four, and Thompson five. On the defensive side of the account Preston forfeited 11 goals in their four matches but have improved t such an extent that only 34 have been scored against then in 26 subsequent league games. No fewer than nine of these almost exactly a third of their matches they have prevented the opposing forward line scoring at all. On the other side of the account Preston have failed to score themselves on only four occasions, three of which were in the early part of the season.
Blues Unchanged
Everton will be unchanged for Preston’s visit the team being Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Fielding, Eglington.
Everton’s Youth team is also engaged tomorrow afternoon meeting Manchester United in the fourth round replay of the National Youth Cup at Old Trafford.
TODAY’S GAME’ A TOUCH OF PIQUANCY
February 27, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Added piquancy about today’s rearranged League match between Everton and Preston North End at Goodison Park. This will be the first time former Everton Manager Cliff Britton, has visited his old club as a member of the opposition. Among the many changes made since he left is one I believe which has escaped general notice – the Everton directorial sanctum within the general Board Room is now out of bounds, nowadays, to Managers of visiting clubs. Everton want to win this match to help to keep their followers interested; Preston want to win it because they have an outside chance of catching Manchester United at (or before) the post and a very good chance of finishing in a position rating talent money. They have lost only three League games –all of them away fixtures –since Britton joined them when they were down, and almost out, last September. Today’s is a meeting of two sides rejuvenated. Everton made an even sorter start than Preston’s. Oddly there is a similarity too, between Manager Britton of Preston and Coach Ian Buchan of Everton. Both are great men for physical fitness; both show no signs of seeking personal aggrandizement. Because many Liverpool people saw Preston’s replay win against Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park –and liked it – there are signs that today’s attendance will be above average for mid-week. The probable appearance of Tom Finney in the Preston attack guarantees the attention of all mid-week followers of football. Were Thompson to find a place in the Preston attack. Everton’s chances of victory would be less promising.
Nearly Vindicated
Thompson played most impressively for the Football League at this ground some seasons ago and I said no. He was then at Villa. A Liverpool follower who shall be nameless has never ceased decrying my rating of this player. Thompson’s many goals this season justify my opinion in part. An England cap would complete the vindication! Everton are as at Arsenal, Preston have some doubts. Mr. Britton will select his forwards from seven when he knows ground conditions this morning. Everton; Dunlop; Donovan, Tansey; Birch, Jones, Farrell; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Fielding, Eglington. Preston North End; Else; Cunningham, Walton; Docherty, Dunn, O’Farrell; forwards from; Dagger, Thompson, Waterhouse, Finney, Baxter, Foster, Taylor.
GOODISON SEES QUICK GOALS
February 27, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Preston Twice In Lead
By Ranger
Everton; Dunlop, goals; Donovan and Tansey, backs; Birch, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Payne, Gauld, Harris (J), Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Preston N.E;- Else, goal; Cunningham and Walton backs; Docherty, Dunn, and O’Farrell, half-backs; Dagger, Thompson, Finney, Baxter and Taylor, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.H. Clough (Bolton). The re-arranged League game between Everton and Preston North End at Goodison Park, had a sensational opening for Preston were a goal up in 35 seconds. Straight from the kick-off, the visitors got away on the right, and when Finney put over a well judged centre Donovan near the six-yard line, headed the ball straight out to Thompson, who rammed it into the roof of the net from 14 yards. Dunlop never had a chance. Preston almost got a second a couple of minutes later, when Thomson unmarked on the left flank crossed the ball to Finney. Instead of hitting it first time, however, Finney endeavoured to bring it under control so that by the time he got his shot in Dunlop was there to make a catch.
Dunlop Save
In between these two Preston raids, Gauld had put in one of his swift bursts but, as so often happens he let the ball run out of control so that Walton was able to make a simple collection. Another Preston raid saw the visitors cut through the home defence and only a splendid save by Dunlop near the angle of the woodwork prevented Thompson getting on the scorers list again. Another splendid piece of work by Finney in which he had the Everton defence mesmerized although he was only going at half-speed opened up a shooting chance for Baxter. Fortunately for Everton, Baxter put the ball yards over the bar.
Payne Levels
At last Everton started to do some pressing and just when the crowd was getting relive because everybody passed and repassed instead of shooting the Blues got on level terms. Although Payne was the scorer much of the credit goes to Farrell, who hit the post with a fierce drive from 20 yards. The ball bounced away almost at right angles and Payne running in shot it safely home down a very narrow angle. This was at the 13th minute. The game was certainly providing plenty of incident, and there was another narrow squeak for Everton when Taylor beat Donovan and Thompson was just about to tap his centre home when Dunlop threw himself on the ball. As the Everton goalkeeper lay on the ground Thompson tried to kick the ball out of his grasp and as Dunlop got up and punted it away, Thompson expressed his regret for his over-eagerness. Everton’s next attack saw the ball come to Fielding from a headed clearance by Dunn, with the Everton inside man letting go a strong first time drive only a foot over the bar. The football was of a very entertaining character, and through Preston thus far had looked the more dangerous Everton had also had their moments and the play had fluctuated rapidly from one and to the other.
Second For Thompson
Finney who was here, there and everywhere the brilliant general of the Preston attack now laid the foundation of Preston’s second goal. He dribbled 20 yards in the outside left position before scooping the ball over the heads of two opponents to send Taylor away. Taylor transferred to Thompson and the latter though harassed by Donovan and Jones managed to slip the ball past Dunlop who got his fingers to it but could not stop it entering the net. This was at the 22nd minute. Finney and Thompson continued to serve up wonderful football and in one amazing move they had the Everton defence completely dizzy. Baxter finally spoiled the chance through too hasty a shot. First Jones and then Tansey conceded corners rather than take any chances, and for some minutes Everton had been penned in they own-quarters. At last Everton got away on the right wing but it was a sort-lived excursion and back came Finney and Thompson to tantalise the home defence. Jones presumably playing was usually shadowing Finney wherever he went and the pair had several duels in the centre circle. Half-time; Everton 1, Preston North End 2.
THE TOMMY GUNNERS OF PRESTON
February 28, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 1, Preston N.E 4 (Attendance 23,243)
Everton suffered mortal wounds at the hands of Preston North End’s Tommy gunners –Tom Finney and Tommy Thompson. Finney made (and polished) the bullets; Thomson fired them. With aid from a tight-knit rugged, competent defence they left Everton riddled by such smooth well-ordered football as we have seen in the past only from the best. Continental sides – and Manchester United. In the space of a season and a half the Preston Tommy gunners have bagged 90 goals between them and that makes no allowance of goals presented to others. People were saying yesterday that Preston would still have been in the Cup, if Thompson had been able to play at Highbury a week ago; be that as it may the club still hold a League chance –one which must be ever-improving while they produce the sort of football which made Everton’s seem second-rate. Everton played as well as they were allowed; in no match this season have I seen them so palpably outclassed. This was their first home defeat since last October. None can say that it has not been foreshadowed.
Home Content
Thus, Mr. Britton would go home content, having proved that his managerial powers are unimpaired and that in Finney he has a player comparable with Matthews. As a winger Finney had less scope than is available to him as a leader of the attacks. The centre of the field and both wings are now his domain. He rules his kingdom as regally as does Matthews. Scarcely ever a burst into top speed; almost always a half-pace progress with the ball tucked away safely on the wrong side of the would-be tackler, a feint here and a dart there to keep the other man in a constant state of suspense, if not apprehension. Finney threw the book (hard-board corners and all) of football art at Everton. With unrevealing mien (and feet which equally masked –intent until the Everton defender was undone) he coaxed and conjured his line into so many scoring positions the wonder was the margin was three goals not six. He chipped passes like a golfer; he slid them, he ankled them. And once when the leaden, churned up ground almost caused him to lose possession he did a cross-legged Tishy act which hooked the ball back in front of him…this to the delight and envy of Everton followers who far from having no comparable player in their side had few to give them even momentary joy.
Stinging Shot
Finney took a goal, too, and but for the width of an upright would have had two. His stinging long shot which beat Dunlop struck the post was the game’s fiercest. Adding to other qualifies they ability to beat Jones in the air. Finney put on the most flawless, most polished centre-forward exhibition I have seen since the days of Hugh Gallacher. Preston have the solution to ll defences; eternal triangles of passing with the man not possessed of the ball always running out of trouble –and not into it like Everton, so often yesterday. No Preston man is ever left to fend for himself. Where one is in possession others will come to give him the alterative of not two passes, but three or four. Preston’s calm, calculated heading of the ball was a feature too. Nothing flamboyant but so effective. These are lessons which should not be lost on Everton, who were made to look pedestrian; uncertain laboured.
From A Volley
In less than a minute Preston were a goal up. Finney, on the right, lofted a centre; Donovan nodded the ball away; Dunlop, sensing Thompson’s plan prepared for the worst – and it came. From more than knee high Thompson volleyed the ball home as it dropped. At thirteen minutes Everton were level with a goal from Payne, Farrell’s cracking shot struck the post and bounded away to Payne on the wing. The angle was formiable, but Payne hit his shot truly; a deflection by a Preston foot inches from the line actually turned the ball over the line, but it was Payne’s goal beyond doubt. Thompson put Preston ahead again in 22 minutes –a goal started by a lovely bit of lobbing by Finney, carried on by little Taylor, (whose centre for once was prompt) and competeled by Thompson. Finney scored the third, he picked up a lovely pass by Baxter to walk on to his scoring chance. Dunlop advanced; Finney kept his shot low and just wide of him –no blame to Dunlop.
Glorious Save
Three minutes later (55 minutes) Finney manceurving on the right cross the ball which Thompson helped on to the complete unmarked Taylor -1-4 and Everton more flagging and flustered than ever. That –except for a glorious save by Else at Gauld’s expense –was the end and a hundred shareholding schoolboys pranced on to the pitch, like dancing dervishes to cavort where Finney had left off. No need to dwell on the play, individual or collective of Everton F.C. They tried…they were found wanting a great deal.
EVERTON YOUTH X1 ELIMINATED
February 28, 1957. The Liverpool Daily Post
Manchester United 5, Everton 2
Everton made a brave effort to hold Manchester United, the holders of the F,A Youth Cup in the fourth Round replay at Old Trafford yesterday, and at one time in the second half seemed likely to achieve their objective. But their defence could not find the answer to Manchester’s clever attacks and defeat was sustained by five goals to two. It was weak defensive play which allowed United to take an early lead, and although Llewellyn and Temple, who were Everton’s best forwards, contrived to gain, an equalizer, the former being the score, Everton were again caught on the wrong foot when first Pearson and then Dawson added to an early goal by Lawton. Everton concentrated on defence in the second half and after a breather their attack came back for Temple to make the score 3-2. They appeared to have a chance but in a storming rally United gained command and Hunter and Dawson added further goals to give them the right to meet Blackburn Rovers in the fifth round.
EVERTON WERE BEWITCHED, BEWILDERED, AND MADE TO LOOK NOVICES
February 28, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Three days ago I wrote at some length on the old topic of Everton’s forward failing, stressing the danger in which the club might find itself if the defence, after bearing the burst of things for so long should begin to crack. It cracked against Preston North End yesterday, so badly that it was creaking and groaming almost throughout the game, and long before the finish looked as full of holes as a sleeve. Preston’s forward display and particularly that of Finney was the finest I have seen this season, and altogether the Deepdale side looked better than any that has visited Goodison. Finney was the mainspring of their attack. He was in his brighless and most effective form. He had not only Jones but all the other Everton defenders on toast. Yet throughout he was rarely moving beyond a gentle canter. Even when he stood still and gently swayed his body nobody seemed able to do anything about it. He had them all mesmerized. They were like rabbits in the headlights of a car –hypnotized, bewitched and bewildered. On this showing there is not a better centre forward anywhere in Great Britain today. Finney’s value not limited to what he does himself. Equally valuable is his facility for bringing the best out of everybody alongside him. He has made Thompson into a far better player than ever he was with the Villa; he has polished up Baxter’s play and he brings extreme wingers into the game in such a manner that they cannot help but shine.
Never In The Hunt
By comparison Everton were like cathouses alongside a thoroughbred. They were never in the hunt. Even when they did hit back occasionally their shooting as usually well off the mark and you never get goals that way. I felt sorry for Everton’s defenders. They just didn’t know which way to turn, Finney, Baxter and Thompson intereninged until Jones and his colleagues must have wondered whether they were on their heads or their heels. But to their credit, Everton never once descended to questionable tactics. They took their beating like sportsmen and played the game though it must have been with heavy hearts right to the bitter end. The score might have been eight or nine for Preston carved out chances after chances and then walked the opening their skill had produced. Everton also missed some Gauld (twice) and Payne failing badly when they might have made the final score more respectable. Had they reduced the deficit however, Preston might have turned on the heat more decisively. As it was the visitors appeared quite content to take things easily after their fourth goal at the 56th minute. Thereafter they seemed more intent on providing the 23,243 spectators with exhibition football rather than attempting to humiliate Everton any further. I don’t propose to labour they matter unduly. Everton were outclassed on general led and made to look a very poor and ragged lot. Let us leave it at that. The lesson however should be taken to heart. More ability and punch is needed in attack, and the defence should evolve tactical schemes in ensure that its members are not so easily drawn out of position as some were in the game. This is another note which I have stressed on previous occasions.
A Quick Start
As in the corresponding match last year Preston were a goal up almost before Everton realized the game had started. Thompson was the scorer in 35 seconds with a cracking drive from the edge of the penalty area after Tansey had failed to stop Finney and Donovan and headed out the latter’s centre to Thompson’s feet. Payne equalized from the rebound after Farrell had hit the post with Everton’s best shot of the day only for Finney to lay the foundation of Preston’s second goal in 22 minutes again scored by the ell-like Thompson. Finney got the third, had a big share in the fourth which was scored by Taylor and continued thereafter bread panic and alarm in Everton’s defence. Twice Finney hit the woodwork and once Donovan kicked a Taylor shot away off the line in the second half, Fielding and Birch had good shots saved by Else, and Gauld was foiled when he should have left the Preston goalkeeper helpless but apart from this Everon’s scoring efforts all off target –some by prodigious distances.
Dunlop Not To Blame
The only Everton players to come anywhere near their usual form were Dunlop-who had no chance with any of the goals, though he got his fingers to the second –Farrell and Donovan. Jones and Tansey, normally so solid and reliable had a most unhappy afternoon. Birch was the strongest shooter, though not a very accurate one, and Payne was the best of a most indifferent and lusterless forward line. Harris was rarely seen and Gauld was no better but his occasional dashes led nowhere. All told it was a day of disillimonment for Everton and their followers. On this showing they were no better that a moderate Third Division side.
Banik On The Way
Banik F.C of Ostrava, the Czech team which is to play Everton in a friendly at Goodison park on Saturday, are flying from Prague to London Airport, arriving tonight. They journey by coach to Southport tomorrow where they stay overnight. The party of 17 includes 12 full Czech internationals. In addition to playing Everton they have a match against Leeds United on Monday. The tour is being made to mark the Banik club’s 35th anniversary.
THE LATE GEORGE GREEN
February 28, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
The death of George Green , whose cantons have for so many years delighted our readers, removes from Merseyside sporting circles one of the finest and most lovable characters I have known. It was a privilege to be numbered among his friends. George had tremendous courage and though for years he had been badly crippled with earthrises he never moured or grumbled. He faced what at times must have been heart breaking difficulties with uncomplaining fortitude always seeking to make a joke of them. I have known him when he was in such pain and his fingers were so locked that it was amazing he could even hold his pen, never mind turn out the brilliant cartoons that he did. Tribute has already been paid to the excellence of his work and many other attributes. All I can add is that the world is the poorer for the passing of a man who was a shining example of kindness, courtesy and courage and whose memory will always be treasured by all who knew him.
MR. GEORGE GREEN DEAD
February 28, 1957. The Liverpool Echo
Brilliant “Echo” Cartoonist
Mr. George Green, the Echo artist; whose brilliant sporting cartoons delighted successive generations of readers and who was the mentor of Merseyside’s enviable “Back Entry Diddlers” died in hospital this morning. Mr. Green’s cantoon’s had been a popular feature of the Echo for many years. They were always characterized by an outstanding degree of draughtmanship, and above all, by the irrepressible humour of the artist himself. George Green was born in London, and it was said of him that he could draw before he could walk. At the age of eight he came to Wallasey, where he attended Egremont Commercial School. Six years later the family moved again, and for the first time in his life he received instruction in drawing –at Margate School of Art.
Art Or Stage
While in his teens he went to America, hoping to start an art career, but he soon returned to England, undecided whether to stick to art or to take up a stage career. Bu art won – and the stage came a close second for Mr. Green appeared later as a cantoonist at many Liverpool threatres. In all his work –sporting theatrical and social –George Green’s humour was warm and friendly –never bitter or malicious. His drawings made him countless friends. A reader once wrote of him. “He could transform a disconsolate woe by gone countenance into a seraphic grin-even after a no-point result.” His weekly canton recording the adventures of the Back Entry Diddlers the famous football team he created brought happiness every Saturday to children and grownups alike. Erb the Basher, Tich and Maggie Ann were based on youngsters he had known in his own boyhood. In recent years he carried on his work under the crippling burden o arthritis. But his hand never lost its skill, nor did he lose his buoyant spirit. His cantons reflected the man –kindly, generous and philosophical always ready to see and share the humour of everyday life. Mr. Green who leaves a widow, son and daughter, lived at 21 Queen’s Drive, Liverpool.
February 1957