EVERTON FIT TO OPPOSE WORLDS BEST
May 1, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
ALEX YOUNG CAN BE THE BRIGHTEST STAR OF ALL
EVERTON 4, ARSENAL 1
By Horace Yates
It was cruel of Everton to serve up such a display against the Arsenal at Goodison Park on the last Saturday of the season for the anticipation they produced among their supporters will make the close-season appear such an interminable affair.  If only New York tournament were the Merseyside tournament so that everybody could feast their eyes on the splendour of a tip-top bonus competition, the wait for next August would become much less irksome.  Only the most fortunate individual will be able to carry on with them in New York where they left off at Goodison but the Daily Post will provide the next best thing-the most complete coverage of any newspaper of Everton activities in America.  From those grim days of a few weeks ago when the most sanguine could only picture a continuance of Everton failure comes the alluring prospect of Everton doing battle with some of the world’s top teams and competing with more than a fifty-fifty chance of covering themselves with glory.  Display such as Everton produced against Arsenal on Saturday and Sheffield Wednesday the week previous, can only create a picture of achievement and triumph.  Not only have Everton clearly regained their touch, but they now appear fit to rank with Spurs as the best this country can provide. 
FIRST HALF FROLIC
That magnificent, never tingling first half frolic, which almost relegated a competent and able Arsenal into a make-weight contribution to a Goodison revel stirred the imagination and left everybody clamouring for more.  This was Everton at their most talented best, sending memories coursing back to those early season days when they devastated Manchester City with a display which their followers will talk about for years as the occasion on which their team showed ability great enough to rank them with the best club sides in the world.  If some deterioration set in during the second half of the Arsenal game enough had been seen to suggest that the club’s dream of shattering supremacy may yet come true.  The applause and cheers to which the teams filed off at the interval, showed clearly that these talented entertainers have struck a football blend that lifts Merseyside soccer on to an exhilarating plane.  Those who saw Roy Vernon step forward to place a penalty kick beyond Kelsey in the last minute concluded that this was a Collins gesture designed to complete a Vernon treble, but what many did not appreciate was the fact that it was also the first time in his career that Vernon has taken three League goals in a single game.  Vernon showed himself completely restored to his role of goal-snapping forward but his most ardent admirer could hardly begin to claim for him the distinction of man-of-the-match. 
MAN OF MATCH
Undoubtedly that label belonged to the man who has had more occasion to grow football stale from his constant day in and day out play throughout the season, than possibly any player in the game –Alex Young.  If we were to be truthful we would admit that judgments based on his first four or five games in English football left him branded as a “£42,000 failure,” an indictment to rash spending.  That was now it was beginning to look, but those who have seen talented Scots on previous occasions take time to do themselves justice, were prepared to wait.  How wise they were!  Young today, with his best still before him, is the acknowledged No.1 favourite of Goodison, a man whose football is so natural that his accomplishments flow with almost ridiculous ease.  The ability is there, clearly defined to beat one, two or three men, one after the other and then place the ball, with a precision and devastation that formerly seemed to be an Everton monopoly of Bobby Collins.  Now Young promises to outdo Collins.  The expectancy which stems from his almost every contact with the ball created a seemingly impossible demand, and yet how rarely did he let down the crowd.  Despite his goal, his finishing still creates a serious doubt as to whether he is occupying his most compelling role in the middle, but of his outsize slice of ability as a master tactician and footballer, there is not the faintest shadow of a doubt. 
MODEST BEAVER
Many hours of Young thrills appear to be guaranteed from this modest heavier of a craftsman.  To compare him with the expensive Eastham in Arsenal’s ranks is like passing chalk off as cheese, but this may not have been Eastham’s day.  Collins too, was always working to a pattern, skilfully and thoroughly and with Fell belying his recent association with football at Third Division level, small wonder Everton scintillated and sparked.  Add to this the fact that Alex Parker laid further claim to a ranking with Blackpool’s Armfield as the game’s most talented right back in a defence which could hardly have been more tightly knit, while goals against were still of any consequence, and Everton jubilation obviously springs from the firmest of foundations.  It was when Arsenal had apparently abandoned ideas of challenging Everton in the scoring line, and their marksman-in-chief Herd, had relegated himself to a half-back position seemingly convinced of the futility of tilting against a stone wall, that the Scot’s one chance presented itself.  From the edge of the penalty area he rammed home a goal which clearly illustrated what a mighty defensive grip had previously been exercised.  Vernon scored the first goal in 21 minutes, the second in 24 minutes and Young the third in 43, with Herd counting in 79 and Vernon’s penalty in 89 minutes concluding the entertainment.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Thomson; Gabriel, Labone, Meagan; Temple, Collins, Young, Vernon, Fell.  Arsenal; Kelsey; Bacuzzi, McCullough; Barnwell, Charles, Groves; Skirton, Eastham, Strong, Herd, Henderson.  Referee; Mr. A.E. Ellis (Halifax).  Attendance 39,810. 

PRESTON N.E. RES 2, EVERTON RES 1
Monday, May 1, 1961 The Liverpool Daily Post
Preston Reserves kept Everton Reserves continually on the defensive at Deepdale but failed to improve upon their half time lead of 2-1.  Spavin was the brains of a lively North End attack which created plenty of openings but lacked punch.  Everton were in casual mood.  Edwards who reduced Preston’s lead in the forty-fifth minute and Harland who had just previously hit the bar were their only dangerous forwards.  Harris was the pick of an indifferent defence, Taylor and Sprain scored for Preston. 

EVERTON MAKE US LONG FOR NEXT SEASON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 01 May 1961
Michael Charters
Everton gave a first-half display of such brilliance against Arsenal on Saturday that it looked as though they had all been offered £100 a week for next season. They were so relaxed, so confident, so completely sure of themselves and so devastatingly effective that one imagined they had all walked out of manager Harry Catterick's office last week very pleased with the club's pay offer and determined to show their pleasure on the pitch. But that, as I understand it, is not quite the picture off the field. I believe that less than 10 per cent, of the staff have accepted terms, although, of course, they have until the of June to re-sign. They have been offered a one-year contract rather than the two permissible under the change of rules. The top money, so I hear, is in the region of £35 a week and many players with first team experience will still be on £20, with £5 extra if they make the first team. I understand the club has a most attractive incentive bonus scheme, however. For every thousand spectators at Goodison Park over 40,000, the first team men will receive an extra £1, so that it the gate reached 60,000 the eleven players would each receive £2O extra that week. If the team play as they did against Arsenal, Goodison Park will not be big enough to hold the people who will want to see them next season, and 70,000 gates could be a regular feature. Naturally, there is no official word from the club on these financial matters, but my information comes from a most authoritative source.
The Effect Of Haynes
As I wrote last Wednesday, every club in the land is going through difficulties with their playing staffs on this wage question. In fact, it would be news if one heard of a club where every player is satisfied with his new wages. That £80-a-week man, Johnny Haynes, has started a trend which will have repercussions throughout football, and Fulham chairman Tommy Trinder really started something with his offer to keep his brightest star at Craven Cottage. But away from mundane money matters for the moment, and reflect happily on the glories of Everton's display last Saturday. This was football of the highest class and will make Everton supporters long for next August and the start of another season with the brightest hopes. After the initial burst of Arsenal pattern-weaving which looked pretty but achieved nothing. Everton settled down to reproduce their vintage form of last November. Vernon (2) and Young gave them a 3-0 interval lead with superbly taken goals, perfectly contrived and finished. Everton were faultless in every direction, with the defence tight and compact, and the forwards cutting Arsenal's defence to ribbons. It was breath-taking soccer —the artistry and grace of Young, the grafting and skill of Collins, excellent wing play of Fell (his best yet) and Temple, and the thrust and finishing power of Vernon. The half-backs were the engine room behind it all, with Labone particularly good, and Parker outstanding. Dunlop had one save to make in this never-to-be-forgotten 45 minutes, which put Everton on a par with any team in the country. Superb End To Season
After half-time, Everton played it cool and casually, and Arsenal managed to make it 3-1 with a wonderful shot from Herd ten minutes from the end, but in the last minute Vernon restored the three-goal advantage with a penalty after Young had been fouled by Herd. Arsenal looked a good side in midfield, but their forwards could make little headway against a too-form Everton defence, and Young’s positional play, drifting out to the wings and deep into midfield, gave Charles a difficult task to hold his rear-guard together. It was a superb end to the season, which sees Everton in fifth place as Burnley managed a narrow win at West Ham. The final touching gesture set the scene as the players lined up to applaud retiring referee Arthur Ellis off Goodison Park for the last time. Mr Ellis, his control as perfect as ever, had received a great ovation from the crowd at the start and we'll be lucky to see as good an official again.  Mr. Catterick did not see his team's five-star display. I wonder if he journeyed up to Scotland, where chairman John Moores was on a fishing holiday, and if he did, could Hibernian's Joe Baker have been under review? He has always liked Baker.  The young Liverpool-born centre forward is said to be anxious now for a move, with hints of action from Italian clubs. I wouldn't care to guess how Baker could be fitted into the current Everton line, which is good enough for anybody, and Mr. Catterick is a lucky man to have taken over such a great side which must be booked for honours on Saturday's display.

VERNON, WIGNALL GET TWO EACH
May 2, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON NEVER EXTENDED IN EXHIBITION GAME AT DUBLIN
SHAMROCK ROVERS SELECTING 1, EVERTON 6
Everton did not encounter the top opposition expected from a side of Shamrock Rovers reputation when the teams met in an exhibition game at Dalymount Park, Dublin, last night.  A big disappointment for the crowd, who remembered his exploits with Rovers was the non-appearance of Liam Tuohy, the Newcastle United, outside left, who was a late withdrawal because of a swollen arm following vaccination for the New York tour by Rovers, for whom he guesting.  Everton led 2-0 after 15 minutes and never had to rouse themselves unduly although Rovers cut the leeway to a goal early in the second half.  The second half, played in near darkness and pouring rain was poor, reward for the brave few who stayed on, though Everton put on their shooting boots in the closing stages when with a late flourish they scored three goals in seven minutes.  Meagan brought off a couple of spectacular saves in the first half when Rovers had a fair share of the ball, Gabriel also came into the picture favourably as right half.  There was, however a noticeable weakness at full back.  Neither Parker, nor Thomson shaped like high calibre, the former having a particularly poor game and almost causing two goals with ill-directed passes.  Collins was the schemer in attack ever probing whilst Vernon and Wignall impressed as goal grabbers, but it is doubtful if any of Rovers players impressed the Everton directors.  A delightful move between Collins and Vernon produced the opening goal after twelve minutes.  When a defender miskicked Collins retrieved the ball and chipped it across for Vernon to run on to it at speed and head into the net.  Everton scored again three minutes later.  This time Wignall spread-eagled the Rovers defence and Fell had no trouble in scoring from four yards.  Rovers had a grand chance of reducing the arrears shortly afterwards, but O’Connell shot wide from six yards.  A quarter of an hour after the restart Rovers struck back, J. Keough centred to Bailham who scored with a rising shot.  But the flight back was short lived.  From the kick-off Everton forced a corner and Wignall headed Fell’s centre past a helpless Darcy.  On the half hour Vernon Vernon, cracked the fourth goal from forty yards, Darcy being unsighted.  The storm cleared after this and visibility improved.  So did the standard of Everton’s football and cheers greeted the closing exchanges which included the best goal of the match –a flying header from Wignall-and a lucky one from Gabriel whose shot from the half-way slithered into the net. 

EVERTON BELOW FORM BUT WIN 6-1
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 02 May 1961
Despite a 6-1 win over Shamrock Rovers, Everton did not give complete satisfaction to a near full house at Dalymount Park, Dublin, last night. Their football, extremely scrappy at times, came to life only in the last quarter of an hour when three goals were scored in the space of seven minutes. By this time the home side, though strengthened by guesting international Noel Peyton (Leeds United), former international Paddy Coad (Waterford) and Brendan O'Brien (Shelhourne), had been run off their feet and offered little retaliation. Disappointed by Roberts failure to give one of their customary shock displays against English sides, and dampened by torrential rain, most of the crowd had wended their way home by this stage.  Everton really did show class during those last 15 minutes.  In rapidly descending gloom, Wignall headed home a beauty, while Vernon, from 40 yards, almost burst the net rigging, so fierce was his shot.  There was, however, an element of luck about the last score-a tentative lob by Gabriel from half-way skidding on the treacherous surface into the net.  Earlier Everton scorers were Vernon (header), Fell and Wignall (another header), Bailham scored Rovers only goal.
LABONE OUTSTANDING
Labone had an outstanding game at centre half commanding the centre of the field, while Gabriel and local boy Meagan flanked him competently enough.  Vernon and Wignall were the marksmen in attack, but Coillns did the spade work for most of the scores. If the Everton directors had hopes of spotting potential talent in Rovers' side they must have been disappointed. Only Peyton impressed in a poor game.

JOBS OFFERED TO MR. CAREY
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 02 May 1961
LATEST ONE FROM SCOTTISH CLUB
Mr. John Carey, the deposed Everton manager, who is managing the Eire team which meets Scotland in Glasgow tomorrow evening, has received several offers to join other clubs.  Writes Leslie Edwards. Mr. Wright, chairman of Greennock Morton, the Scottish Second Division club, went to Largs, in Ayrshire, yesterday, to try to persuade Mr. Carey to take over the club in their all-out effort to gain First Division status.  Mr. Carey said after the talks; “Mr. Wright made an impression with me, but I would prefer to say nothing at the moment.”  Leyton Orient and Wrexham have also sounded Mr. Carey over the chances of him joining them and in Scotland today there were reports that Preston North End were keen to enlist him. 

KAVANAGH NOT RETAINED BY EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 02 May 1961
List Issued To-day
FEE REQUIRED
Everton F.C. list of retained players, issued to-day has some surprises. Outside left Peter Kavanagh, signed from Romford (Essex) as recently as last February, is included and so is Stan Harland, the Liverpool boy signed from New Brighton in December.,1959 (writes Leslie Edwards). The others are former Mold Grammar School goalkeeper, Graham Griffiths: Stanley Edwards a young winger signed from Rhyl who has been playing well in the Youth XL; John Bentley, also a prominent youngster; Arthur Peat and Alan Shackleton, the former Leeds United centre forward who has been playing for the non-League club, Nelson, in Lancashire. The decision to put Shackleton on the list, at a fee, means that he cannot join any Football League club unless the fee required is paid to Everton. Kavanagh, who has made several first team appearances, and who suffered an injury which kept him out of the game for the final few weeks of the, season, will also be subject to a transfer fee and so will Harland. Manager Harry Catterick said: to-day: "All the other players on our staff list have been retained and will receive in the course of the next day or so the club's terms for next season. I do not anticipate any more difficulty about the acceptance of terms than any other League club. There will be individual negotiation between club and every player. The terms offered vary. That is the way the players want it." Everton announced to-day that as there are no candidates for nomination for election to the board the Board are supporting the re-election of the three retiring directors. Mr. John Moores chairman, Mr.J. C. Sharp and Mr. R. A. Joynson.
YOUNG LEFT OUT
Alex Young of Everton was one of the four players, left out from the provisional list of 15 when the Scotland team was announced to play against Eire in the World Cup qualifying tie at Hampden Park to-morrow night.

HICKSON AND LEWIS TO QUIT FOOTBALL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 03 May 1961
NOTHING CLUB CAN DO, SAY MR. SHANKLEY
JOB OUTSIDE GAME
By Leslie Edwards
Two famous players who cost Liverpool more than £20,000 in transfer fees, have told club they are quitting football and taking jobs outside the game. They are centre - forward Dave Hickson, an Ellesmere Port boy who became one of the game's stormy petrels and who helped Everton back to Division II in 1953-55, and Kevin Lewis, a winger who learned his football at his native Ellesmere Port and made good with Sheffield United in Mr. Joe Mercer's days as manager there.  Hickson, after two spells with Everton, joined Liverpool in November, 1959; Lewis came to Anfield In June last year. Both are leading scorers this season. Lewis with 20 goals in Cup and League and Hickson with 15. Hickson has been working for some time with a Liverpool clothing firm and this shock move may well mean a partnership between him and Lewis in the South of England as an extension of the firm's interests there.

NOT MUCH CHANCE OF BAKER COMING HERE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 03 May 1961
STATEMENT BY MR. CATTERICK
NO EVERTON BID
By Leslie Edwards
Everton manager Harry Catterick, cleared the air today regarding prospects of the club bidding for Joe Baker, Liverpool-born Hibs and England centre forward whose club have said they will consider offers for him.  He said; “Sums of £100,000 have been mentioned in connection with baker and if anyone thinks we are going to try to out-bid the Italians at that sort of figure they’d be wrong.  We haven’t got money like that to throw away.  “There isn’t much chance of Baker coming here, although I consider him, at 21, one of the best propositions in the game.  If his club were to auction him we should not be prepared to enter it.  “The position about Baker is the same as about any other first class players who are available.  If Hibs placed a figure on him which I considered represented value for money, I should recommend his signing to the board. 
EVERTON’S AIM
“Everton realise that they have the public to support the best football and our intention is to give them the best.  I go all the way with the board in that aim.”  Some players have accepted Everton’s terms for next season.  Others are considering their offers.  No firm list of refusals or acceptances will be given for the moment.  Baker said today, “I am prepared to play on the Continent- I don’t mind that at all.  I shall go where the money is.  If that means Italy, then Italy it will be.” 

NO EVERTON INTEREST IS LIKELY –SAY HARRY CATTERICK
Friday, May 5, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Horace Yates
What are the prospects of Clough slotting into the Everton middle?  Not very bright, I think Manager Harry Catterick told me last night that while Everton were always interested in star players.  “We are not particularly interested in Brian Clough at the moment.” 

ROY VERNON SAY-
Friday, May 5, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
LOOK OUT AMERCIA HERE COME EVERTON
Look out America, here we come!  I don’t think anyone will doubt now that Everton are worthy representatives of British soccer to take part in the New York tournament.  A few weeks ago there were those who were saying we should withdraw from the competition.  Apart from Spurs I doubt if there is any club in the League who would be accepted generally as a better proposition, and we at Everton, would doubt even that.  This is not being big-headed, it is just as the Australians would say; “We have come good at the right time.” Never at any moment did we doubt our ability to play football, but form is the most elusive thing I have ever experienced.  The names are the same but the results could; hardly be more different than those which threatened our retention of a place in the talent money grouping.  When we won at Newcastle so convincingly the doubters said we had beaten nothing and even with a Goodison victory over Cardiff City thrown in, there were those who still postponed a verdict.  I might add that no matter what these people may have though the players knew the corner had been turned.  The goals were coming and our football was free and progressive. 
WELCOMED CHALLNGE
We welcome the challenge of Sheffield Wednesday on their own ground for we knew that if this hurdle could be surmounted then, the recovery was seated beyond doubt.  Then, for good measure, we beat up Arsenal and although we only scored four we felt we might easily have hit double figures.  Shamrock Rovers follow compethers in the New York tournament were taken in our stride and we are now convinced that far from a football-state side we shall go to America bursting with confidence and efficiently.  We have sampled the power of Bangu who aim to take the New York title for a record time but we are unafraid, for the simple reason that we feel that although we were coming back to power when we draw with them at Goodison Park they only saw a slim slice of the treat we can become to their ambitions.  In our present mood we fear no foe and, realising we let down our supporters as well as ourselves with our failure to make any progress in the F.A Cup we are determined that at the first opportunity we shall make amends. 
PLENTY OF AMMUNITION
While there may be nothing quite like an F.A Cup win I think our followers, would be appeased to a large measure if we became the toast the toast of New York.  Obviously that is going to be a gigantic task, but we are completely unafraid.  Whether it is the magnificent solidarity of our defence that has inspired our comeback.  I don’t know but not only are the lads behind the firing line holding fast to defensive positions, but they are passing up the ammunition in first-class style so that it would be uncharitable of the artillery not to show their shooting powers.  The form of Alex Young has been a revelation to everybody.  But if you remember during the first few weeks he was at Goodison I told you what a wonderful player he was and what superb through passes be was capable of providing.  Now you have seen for yourselves, and with a player like that, who wastes fewer balls than almost anybody, I know defences hardly know what is coming next.  He is as orthodox, quick, he sized up a situation and almost before you know it you find yourself running into a position where opposition is thinnest.  That is the art of the true craftsman.  I have heard him criticised as not being the scoring type.  What rot, Alex can and will, score goals, but my philosophy is, what does it matter who puts the ball into the net so long as it is somebody on your side?  My present tally of goals, is easily my best in First division football and I think it is the prompting of Young who has helped me put out of that awful period when it seemed that I could kick the ball anywhere except into the opposition net. 
BEST SCORING SEASON
As a matter of interest my best scoring season previously was in 1958-59 when I totalled 16.  But as I have tried to make clear before it is not my intention to be regarded first and foremost as a goal-poacher.  I would like to believe that every forward earns his place for his ability in general play, and if it should fall to the lot of any particular individual to find goals coming to him with greater regularity than to others, that is just part of the game.  I think a word of commendation for Jimmy Fell would not be out of place.  Having gone through the mill I know what a difference I found moving up from Second Division to the First Division, but when you consider that Jimmy stepped up from Division Three and is already playing like a winger who has known nothing less than top grade football that to me shows real ability. 

GOODISON PARK FANS KNOW GOOD SOCCER
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 06 May 1961
ALEX YOUNG LOOKS BACK ON HIS FIRST SIX MONTHS WITH EVERTON

Alex Young, soccer player of exquisite skill and technique, and the current rave of Everton’s discerning fans, has but one football regret.  He is sorry he didn’t arrive on the English scene earlier. 
The viewpoint delivered thoughtfully and articulately, isn’t dictated by the more favourable cash reward England offers compared with his native Scotland.  It is dictated by artistic consideration…for Young, from his earliest days, has approached football as an art. 
He says; “The biggest difference between football in Scotland and England is crowd appreciation. When I played at home, crowds often did not grasp the end in view when a particularly skilful manoeuvre in teamwork or individual play was attempted. And if the move failed, the failure was greeted by groans, and moans.  Result; I often felt dishearted, and maybe adopted a couldn’t-care-less attitude.  But that was the effect it always had on me.  “Now take the Goodison ground of Everton.  The fans are terrific-as they are all over England.  Even when a move breaks down they applaud, for they’ve grasped the intention of the player or players. 
APPRECIATION
"Appreciation is sweet music to players on a football field, just as it is to performers on the stage. “After all, footballers are public performers, and I know I react to atmosphere by trying to play better football than ever. No ground I've ever played on provides the same happy, intimate atmosphere as Goodison. It is quite wonderful, and because of the generous appreciation you instinctively give your best effort all the time for these wonderful fellows. The fan, without any doubt, can ' lift' a team to better and better football.”  Young then contemplated the question: How about your own play these days' “Though in print the words may sound bombastic. Young used them with natural modesty. "I am playing better football to-day than I've ever played… and I am most happy about it because my club and fans."
WORRYING
He switched thoughts to the days immediately after his transfer from Hearts.  “I wasn’t really fit, I had ligament trouble, and what between that and Army duties at Aldershot I was concerned. “Young’s concern wasn’t for himself, but for the club he had joined.  He wanted to do well and justify all the future faith that lay behind the transfer.  His early matches were worrying, but all that is behind him now.  “I’ve never been fitter,” he says, a remarkable tribute to his resilience and durability, when his footballing life with Everton is set against long, wearying travel schedules every week-end from Aldershot, plus Army football every mid-week and Army representative matches in and outside Britain. 
Yet in the last half-dozen games for Everton, the Scot has produced crowd-pleasing skilful football. In addition to the crowds, he pays a high tribute to his team-mates.
DELIGHTFUL
“It’s a joy to be in this team, for everybody is playing football and thoroughly enjoying the game,” he says.  And nobody more than Alex Young.  He’s delighted to be at Goodison.  Though he may comment, rather wistfully “it’s a pity I didn’t get here earlier,” Goodison is happy he has “arrived” and hopes he will be around for many a season.  One further piece of Young cheer.  He has just been posted to Chester, and when the new season comes round he will be Alex Young, ex-Serviceman, and really get down again being a full-time footballer.  Which means that the Goodison fans probably haven’t yet seen the vintage Young whose potential as a boy footballer carried the stamp of future greatness. 

WEDNESDAY DOUBLE WAS OUR BEST OF THE SEASON
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 06 May 1961
Says Alex Parker
Another season is over, and looking back on the 42 League games, plus our F.A. Cup and League Cup matches, there is one fact that stands out. This may surprise some people, for it is not a goal, or on individual performance, or one particular result. When, in the future, I remember the 1960-61 season, the first thing that will spring to mind is that we took four points from Sheffield Wednesday, the runners up, and dropped three points to relegated Preston. Another thing I must point out is the recent Improvement in our defence. There have been times when it must be admitted that we have given more goals away than we would like, e.g., the start of the season and early this year. But we have tightened up so much that only Sheffield Wednesday and Spurs conceded less all season. And in home matches only, we gave away less than Spurs, Wednesday and Manchester United were the only Clubs to concede less on their own grounds. It's a pity we couldn't always play like we did against Arsenal last week. The first hart exhibition was in my opinion, our best of the season and if we can keep it up in America and when the League programme starts again in August, I honestly believe there are very few teams who will beat us. That's if we can keep it up. This is such an up-and-down game. Still, it took Spurs sometime before they clicked into their present form, and we are hoping that after a full season together for most of us, we too are beginning to blend. The American tour should tell.
GOAL SCORING
I remember writing soon after Roy Vernon signed for us that with him and Bobby Collins in the line, we had inside forwards who could take it in turn to score or scheme. To prove it, Roy got three last week, after Bobby had done so in the previous home match against Cardiff. Roy was talking about goal-scoring on the way back from our game with Shamrock Revere. He said that after going for quite a while without finding the net he suddenly hits 10 in a week. On Monday he scored two against Shamrock, Saturday he got his hat-trick, and the previous Monday, in Bill Eckersley's benefit match, he scored five. We told him that as he apparently knows how to score he's got to keep it up. No excuses in future! Talking of the Shamrock match, which we won 6-1. Frank Wignall scored a really great goal with his head, similar to the one he scored at Sheffield Wednesday recently. Roy Vernon crossed the ball fairly hard and Frank flung himself through the air to send it rocketing into the net. He's getting a reputation as a header of the ball.  
COLLINS' HAT-TRICK
 We played the match at Dalymount Park, Dublin, and the last time I was there was about four years ago as a Falkirk player. I was paying for the Scottish League against the League of Ireland and we won 5-1. I remember Bobby Collins, then with Celtic, also played. If I'm not mistaken I think he scored a hat-trick. That makes it 11-2 In two matches. Must be my lucky ground. Those of you who were at Goodison last Saturday will remember the applause given by prayers and spectators to referee Mr. Arthur Ellis, who is retiring. Speaking as a player, and I think I speak for many. I shall be sorry to see Mr. Ellis go. So much has been said and written about this famous referee that there is little I can add except to say that I always enjoyed playing when he was in charge. You knew you always got a fair deal off him, and knowing that you always felt you played better. Yes, it's a very old but true saying that a referee can make or break game. You will often find that when you have seen a good game, the referee was always a good one, and I don't think I ever took part in a bad game when Mr. Ellis was in charge.
OFF GO SEVEN
Taking of referees reminds me of a perfectly true story of a young chap from my home town of Irvine who passed out as a qualified referee. He was in charge of many games I played in juvenile soccer and was quite a good referee. But it was his first game I shall always remember, even though I was not playing. Soon after passing his exams he was given a match and sent no fewer than seven players off! When asked for his reasons he said: "Well, 22 was rather a lot to manage on my own." It's a good job they don't all take that view. This week we have had an addition to the ever-growing number of Scots players on Merseyside in Ian St. John, who has joined Liverpool from Motherwell. I have played against him a few times and 12 months ago was on the Scottish tour with him. There is no doubt he will be a favourite with the Liverpool fans. Anyway, he certainly shouldn't be short of friends here. And now everybody at Goodison is looking forward to America and next season. But before that there is the matter of a game on Tuesday with a team called Liverpool from across the park, and an old score to settle. While realising that Liverpool always play well against us. I have a feeling that it might be our turn to win.

LABONE SETS RE-SIGNING EXAMPLE TO THE EVERTON STAFF
Monday 8, May, 1961.  The Liverpool Daily Post
By Peter Price
First Everton player to accept terms and re-sign is centre half Brian Labone, but because his lead has not been followed by others so far, it does not by any means follow that the rest of the club staff is in revolt against the suggested offers.  It is true that several players, Collins, Parker, Vernon and Thomson, among others have expressed some disappointment, but I would prefer the theory that terms are being negotiated rather than that events are moving towards a crisis.  Those who consider the club offer below their own assessment of their worth, have been asked to suggest a figure they consider suitable, and when the board meet this week the position will be ironed out.  It was at the players’ instigation that each of them should be treated individually rather than en bloc and although this brought the realisation that some would be receiving more than others it was a situation they considered would work without undue difficulty. 
TOP THREE
The initial assessment placed Collins, Young (when his Army Service terminated) and Vernon at the top of the list with a £35 offer plus of course the bonus of £1 for every thousand over a 40,000 attendance.  While this arrangement could put top bracket players into a salary class of more than £2,000 a year I gather the feeling is that they would prefer a higher basic wage and a lower bonus arrangement.  In other words, the players want a greater guaranteed minimum rather than a sky’s the limit maximum.  At the other end of the scale there is a £20 all the year round offer increased to £25 when playing in the first team.  It seems noteworthy that according to Everton calculations forwards are considered to be the top money-spinners so that getting the goals would appear to be a greater paying proposition than stopping them.  If Everton are to enterprise as successful a season next term as most people expect it would seem they can become the best paid players in the game, odd individuals apart, and they might be wise to consider this aspect in arriving at any final-decision.  If gates soar, so do their wages, if they drop well how can they justify bigger demands. 

ST JOHN MAKES DEBUT IN GOODISON GAME
Liverpool Echo - Monday 08 May 1961
SENIOR CUP FINAL LIVERPOOL, 12
By Michael Charters
Liverpool’s new centre forward, Scottish international Ian St. John, will make his debut in the Liverpool Senior Cup final against Everton at Goodison Park tomorrow (7-30 p.m). Manager Bill Shankly will name his final line-up from 12 as he has not yet decided whether Hunt or Catlin will play at inside right.  Ian Callaghan will replace Lewis on the right wing, as Lewis, although retained, has decided to leave League football.  Liverpool; Slater; Molynuex, Byrne; Wheerler, White, Leishman; Callaghan, Hunt or Carlin, St. John, Melia, Morrissey. 
YOUNG HOPE
Everton are hopeful that Alex Young will be available from Army duties to play.  He returned from Dublin today after playing against Ireland yesterday and had to report to his unit.  Manager Harry Catterick will know tomorrow morning whether Young will be playing or not.  If he gets permission to play, the team will be the same as that which defeated Arsenal in the last League game of the season.  Billy Bingham is still on tour with the Northern Ireland party and Derek Temple continues on the right.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Thomson; Gabriel, Labone, Meagan; Temple, Collins, Young, or Wignall, Vernon, Fell. 

EVERTON PLAYERS CAN EARN £2,000
Tuesday, May 9, 1961, The Liverpool Daily Post
By Horace Yates
Nearly half of Everton’s professional playing strength have accepted terms for next season and re-signed.  Manager Harry Catterick said last night, “No one has refused terms, and we appreciate that the players like to think over these things.  The majority of the first team will be earning £2,000 or more on the offers we have already made to them.”  First team players who have re-signed are Brian Labone, Mick Lill and Tommy Ring.  The others are Dunne, Mailey, Green, Gannon, Parnell, Sharples, Gorrie, Morton, Tyrer, and Webber.  For the Liverpool Senior Cup Final at Goodison Park tonight, Everton are hoping that Alex Young who received a slight knock while playing in Ireland, will be available, while Ian St. John, Liverpool’s centre forward will definitely appear.  Liverpool will be without A’Court who has left with an F.A team on a tour of the Far East.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Thomson; Gabriel, Labone, Meagan; Temple, Collins, Young, Vernon, Fell.  Liverpool; (from) Slater; Molyneux, Byrne; Wheeler, White, Leishman, Milne, Callaghan, Carlin, Hunt, St John, Melia, Morrissey. 

WAGE ROW BACKGROUND TO SENIOR CUP FINAL
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 09 May 1961
By Leslie Charters
To-Night’s game at Goodison Park between Everton and Liverpool in the Liverpool Senior Cup final ends the season in fitting style and is likely to draw a gate in the region of 45,000. But this long - awaited match is rather overshadowed by the dissension at Everton over pay terms for next season. As I exclusively revealed eight days ago, only about 50 per cent, of the players are happy with their wage offer of £35 top money, plus the incentive bonus of £1 extra for every thousand over 40,000 at the gate. At Liverpool, the position is more settled with only two or three of the regular first team men dissatisfied. The Anfield offer, I understand, is £25 for the senior players, with £5 extra for a first team appearance. The problems at Everton are now national property with several players making their views known in print.
The position was discussed at yesterday's board meeting of Everton's directors, when manager Harry Catterick no doubt explained the players' viewpoint that the stage was open now for further negotiation with each individual putting forward his own ideas of his value. As the tour party for the New York tournament leaves next week, the club will be anxious to have the matter settled. It was obvious of course, that there were bound to be difficulties over re-signing. When Stanley Matthews, at 47 years of age, anticipates £100 a week from Blackpool, Everton's stars are displeased with £35 by comparison, for their club has the highest ambitions for honours next season and it is people like Young, Vernon, Collins, Parker.&c.. who will be needed to win them. The players feel they would rather have an increased flat rate rather than the pound-per-thousand bonus. On the figures of the season which has just ended, a regular first teamer would have drawn an additional £300 bonus. The players prefer a figure in that region to be added to their salary.
The St. John debut
Meanwhile, additional colour is given to to-night's game by the first appearance in this city of Ian St. John, Liverpool's £35,000 signing from Motherwell. With Scotland's other centre forward choice, Alex Young, being available from Army duties to play for Everton, the opportunity is there for comparison and possibly, to whet the appetite for Liverpool's chances next season. St. John is similarly built to Young, but Scottish reports indicate that he is more of the bustling type than Young's graceful, artistic style. We will watch them both with great Interest. The choice of 19-years-old Ian Callaghan on Liverpool's right wing in place of Kevin Lewis, now business-bound, could be a pointer to next season, although A:an A ‘Court was not available as he is in London with the F.A. tour party for New Zealand, who leave on Thursday. Manager Bill Shankly may play Carlin as Callaghan's partner on the right to establish a winging twosome which has done well in the Central League. With Billy Bingham still on tour with the Northern Ireland team. Derek Temple keeps his place on Everton's right wing, and Brian Harris takes over at left half for Mick Meagan, who was slightly injured in the Dublin international on Sunday. If this match proves half as entertaining and thrilling as last year's which went into extra time with Everton just lasting home, everyone will be satisfied. Liverpool have a habit of upsetting Everton home or away, but Everton's performance against Arsenal 10 days ago was so completely effective that on form, they must be strong favourites to retain the trophy. Everton; Dunlop: Parker, Thomson: Gabriel, Labone, Harris, Temple, Collins, Young, Vernon. Fell. Liverpool; - Slater; Molyneux, Byrne; Wheeler, White, Leishman; Callaghan, Hunt or Carlin, St. John, Melia, Morrissey. Mr. Catterick told me to-day that Young would not be able to travel with the team to New York next week. He will be in Czechoslovakia with the Scottish party on their Continental tour, and will also be required to play for the Army in Salonika. But Everton have made arrangements for him to fly out to the United States as soon as these games are over to link up with the rest of the players in New York.
YOUNG PLAYS FOR EVERTON
Everton centre forward Alex Young has been released from Army duties to play against Liverpool in the Liverpool Senior Cup final at Goodison Park tonight (7-30 p.m). A late change brings in Brian Harris at left half for Mick Meagan, who received a slight injury, playing for Ireland against Scotland in Dublin on Sunday. 

LIVERPOOL’S ST. JOHN IS A REAL WINNER
Wednesday, May 10, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
SCOT SCORES DERBY HAT-TRICK FROM THE ONLY CHANCE HE HAD
EVERTON 4, LIVERPOOL 3
By Horace Yates
It was Everton who won the Liverpool Senior Cup, but it is Liverpool who have picked one of the winners from the transfer market in Ian St. John, scorer of a hat-trick in his first match, and a “derby” game at that?  He is not to know that such things are hardly ever allowed in meetings of these local rivals, but it was a thrilling send-off that will take much of the sting out of the reverse for Liverpool supporters.  It was only fitting that St. John, or Liverpool at least, should get that final goal in injury time at Goodison Park last night, for an Everton burst into a 4-2 lead after conceding equality, and being in grave danger of falling into arrears was a gross misrepresentation of the way play had gone.  Even at 4-32 Liverpool might count themselves a shade unlucky and find many willing to agree with them that the only true verdict would have been a draw.  Supporters of both clubs will forgive me if I revert to St. John, the latest recruit to Merseyside’s football scene, which helped to make last night’s match appear to be something of a Caledonian Society reunion with seven Scots on the field and Ring and Leishman on the sidelines.  For a debutant from Scotland to hit the jack-pot so spectacularly, so quickly, is little short of sensational, for it is an accepted fact this side of the boarder that Scots always require time to find their form in English surroundings.  Alex Young, the Everton centre forward, is an artist, an accepted expert in the football craft, but it has taken weeks to convert those who said he would never make a centre forward.  Yet, look at him now, a magnificent player, a real menace every time he makes contact with the ball. 
ST. JOHN WILL DO
Now if St. John, is to improve along the same electrifying lines, what a pearl Liverpool will have dislodged from the Scottish oyster.  Improvement or not, it is safe to say-St. John will do.  Many shrewd observers decided after fifteen minutes that St. John was good enough to make the grade.  At that time he has not had a single chance, but it was what he did without an opportunity that earned him such a good marking.  He reached high in the air, directed the ball well with his head and showed an appreciation of the value of the through ball for supporting forwards.  Admittedly Liverpool’s first goal, when Everton were two up, was Brian Harris’s way of saying “Welcome to Goodison,”  for Harris passed back to a non-existent Dunlop, and stood clasping his hands in despair as it seemed certain he would score against his own side.  As events turned out the ball struck a post and with Hunt and St. John bearing down on it, St. John it was who gave the ball the tap which registered a goal.  At least give him credit for being on the spot.  I cannot remember any Liverpool forward scoring three goals from such a paucity of opportunity.  His second goal resulted from the ceaseless challenging in the air.  From a corner kick he sent over to Melia who crossed to Callaghan, and the young winger planted the ball in front of goal for St. John to hammer it home. 
MISSED THRILL
Many spectators had left the ground before he completed his hat-trick.  He fastened on to a through ball from Hunt brushed aside.  Labone and bang.  The ball was in the net and judging by the explosive cheers one could hardly have thought Liverpool were still on the losing side.  What a triumph for this young and completely unaffected Scot.  Everyone will wish him well and hope he can be the link to complete the chain which will take Liverpool to their First Division goal.  Now, possibly we can take more heed of manager Bill Shankly when he says “Joe Baker, Brian Clough! You can have the lot of these available for transfer, today and I would not swop one of them for St. John.”  St John apart, it was a thrilling game, and the pity is that these meetings are not truly competitive in the League sense for they are so entertaining.  They lacked no spirit on the account and there were enough fouls during the 90 minutes to have filled a poultry run.  Some of the tackling was out of this world and certainly well out of the rule books, and if it had been Christmas time referee Stringer could hardly have been more benevolent.  He allowed all sorts of offences to go, and that only Collins should be spoken to for exceeding the bounds of fair play, was one of the mysteries of the night. 
DANGEROUS VERNON
I thought in the first half there was danger that Everton might overrun Liverpool, although it took them 28 minutes to go into the lead, Vernon back to his most dangerous form, seemed to have lost a shooting chance through hesitation, but he pushed the ball to Fell, who hit it first time with a terrific crack that was a goal all the way.  It is hard to exonerate Slater for his part in Everton’s second goal.  First of all he kicked out direct to Alex Parker a superb full back, whose intelligent play puts him in a very small group of the most outstanding performers in his position, and he found Vernon in the open space.  Why Slater did not have the ball covered we shall never know, but down onto his knees he went and Vernon simply hit the ball into goal.  It was Harris’s kindness in presenting St. John with a goal in 43 that helped the match to restart, with Liverpool still in hunt.  Everton’s threatened mastery disappeared as Liverpool took over and it came as no surprise at all when St. John made the score 2-2 in 50 minutes.  Twice in the six minute Liverpool should have gone ahead.  First Callaghan put the ball high to Hunt, who brought it under control with his head and from the perfect opportunity shot wide. 
A NEAR THING
Next Gabriel stuck out a foot in an effort to prevent Molyneux’s shot from becoming dangerous and instead charged it with dynamite, for the ball flew off at a tangent and missed the post by no more than a yard with Dunlop completely out of the picture.  Everton were struggling hard when in 81 minutes Jimmy Fell hit possibly the best shot of the night.  It seemed to ricochet from Slater on to White and into the net, but what force the boy applied to the ball!  He had every right to leap in the air with unrestrained delight, for it was an opportunity taken in real copybook style.  So much in the way of unfair play had been allowed to go unpunished as though it was an excepted part of the proceedings that everyone waited for the whistle when Molyneux whipped the legs from under Vernon in the penalty area.  There was no shadow of a doubt that the offence full merited a penalty and nobody could have the slightest complaint when a greatly subdued Collins hammered the ball past Slater.  Had not the referee tacked on an extra couple of minutes for an injury to Milne, who made a wonderfully successful return to the side.  St. John would have been denied his hat-trick but full marks to the referee for making possible the greatest thrill of a by no means unexpecting night.  St John left the field to a terrific ovation, which plainly said “You welcome,” and if he can continue as he has begun that £35,000 will surely show Liverpool the wisdom of wise investment.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Thomson; Gabriel, Labone, Harris; Temple, Collins, Young, Vernon, Fell.  Liverpool; Slater; Molyneux, Byrne, Wheeler, White, Milne, Callaghan, Hunt, St. John, Melia, Morrissey.  Referee; Mr. F.V. Stringer (Liverpool).  Attendance 51,669.
YOUNG CAN PLAY IN NEW YORK
Alex Young the Everton and Scotland centre forward will be able to play for his club in New York tournament after he has toured Czechoslavia with Scotland and played for the British Army in Salonika.  Young will fly in join his colleagues in Montreal two days before the opening match on May 23. 

EX-EVERTON COACH IS MISSING
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 10 May 1961
Left Plane In Lebanon On Way To Job In India

Embassy officials and police in the Lebanon are searching for ex-Everton and Luton football coach Harry Wright, who set off for a new soccer job in India seven weeks ago and disappeared.  He left his plane for a brief stop at Beirut and has not been seen or heard of since. A Commonwealth Relations Office spokesman In London said to-day: "Mr. Wright was going out to India to become a coach in Petiole, in Northern India. He stopped off in, Beirut in the Lebanon, by arrangement, and the last his wife heard from him was a communication from there sometime in March. "He was due to take up his appointment straight away, but he never arrived.
NO TRACE
"The first thing we knew about it was at the beginning of April, when we were requested from India to start inquiries. Since then we have heard nothing, except that these inquiries are proceeding. The Foreign Office has asked the Embassy in the Lebanon to see if they can trace Mr. Wright, and the local police there are co-operating in the search, but so far there is no trace." Harry Wright joined Everton in October 1956 as assistant coach and trainer to Mr. Ian Buchan, who was chief coach after Mr Cliff Britton left the club. Mr Wright was formerly trainer-coach at Luton Town. In his playing days, he was goalkeeper with Charlton Athletic. Mr.Wright stayed for two years with Everton, and the present trainer. Gordon Watson, a former Everton wing half, took over from him.

ST. JOHN HAS A DREAM DEBUT FOR LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 10 May 1961
By Michael Charters
One fact emerged clearly from the thoroughly entertaining Liverpool Senior Cup final at Goodison Park last night-Liverpool have bought right sort in Ian St. John, whose debut in this city was crowned by a hat-trick of the sort usually reserved for story books. His first goal, just before half-time, was a gift as Harris "lost" Dunlop with a back pass, the ball hitting the upright slowly and stopping invitingly on the line for St. John, in company with Hunt, to crack it home; his second, five minutes after half-time, was a neatly taken shot on the half turn as Callaghan lobbed the ball through to him in a crowded goalmouth: his third, a minute from the end, was a cracker. He chased a long through ball from Hunt, brushed aside the 13-stone Labone in full stride and hammered it into the net from 12 yards. St. John deserved his ovation at the end and the back -slapping of hordes of boys who invaded the pitch. He is a fast, go-ahead player, neat with his distribution and it took an equally good performance by Labone to keep him quiet in midfield. Altogether, an impressive display and it was little wonder that Liverpool chairman Tom Williams was smiling his pleasure afterwards. St. John is the type of player Liverpool fans have wanted to see at Anfield for years. Everton just won 4-3 to retain the trophy and were rather fortunate to do so, I thought. If the first half was their's because of their more classy approach work. Liverpool certainly had the best a the second. Everton went two goals up by the 38th minute from Fell and Vernon, it looked as though the match was going to go all one way. But St. John’s first goal was the spur Liverpool needed and they went in at half-time only 2-1 down instead of three or four behind which Everton’s pressure  might well have earned it Vernon, Young and Harris had not put shots into the goal stand rather than the goal.   
LIVERPOOL TOOK CONTROL
Liverpool took control of the second half because Wheeler and Milne tackled Vernon and Collins out of the game. When that was achieved, Everton lost their composure and their attacking style and, unfortunately, because little rattled so that there were some tackles and fouls which referee Stringer did not stamp on, Liverpool deserved to draw level and could easily have taken the lead if Hunt had not missed the chance of the match and Gabriel had not been lucky enough to put a pass to Dunlop just wide rather than just inside the post.  As it was, Fell scored his second goal rather fortunately as the ball struck White in flight and was deflected away from Slater.  That came only eight  minutes from the end and when Collins scored from a penalty four minutes later after Molyneux had fouled Vernon, Everton had taken a 4-2 lead which they did not deserve on their second half performance. St. John's third goal came too late to save the day but his side had taken a good deal of the shine off Everton’s excellence. I give full marks to Liverpool for appreciating what other side shave learned during the season that if Vernon and Collins can be shackled by first-time tackling, Everton for their rhythm.  This was a great game to end the season.  I thought both defences took the major honours, with Labone, Parker and Gabriel outstanding for Everton, while White did very well indeed to hold Young.  He was ably supported by Molyneux and Bryne, while Wheeler had a magnificent match all through.  Milne was quietly effective and tackled Collins really well, and Melia and Callaghan both improved greatly in the second half.  But this was very much St. John’s match and it looks now as though our senior clubs in this city have two class centre forwards of the type to draw the crowds and, most important, win matches.  The crowd of over 51,000 once again showed that Liverpool has the best football support of any area in the country.  Where else would one find an attendance of this size for an end-of-season game for a junior cup competition?  It proves that if Everton and Liverpool provide the talent and the attractive, Liverpool fans will pack our grounds. 

EVERTON’S BOBBY COLLINS POINTS THE WAY TO THE STARS
Thursday, May 11 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Horace Yates
Bobby Collins who has captained Everton in the absence of Tommy Jones, for most of the season, yesterday showed the way to the stars-those players who are still considering the terms offered by the club, by accepting the £35 a week offer made to him, and he has re-signed.  Labone, Lill and Ring had already accepted contracts for the new season, and they have been joined by Meagan, Temple and Fell.  The agreements, I understand are all for a period of twelve months only.  Among those still to announce their decision are Dunlop, Parker, Thomson, Gabriel, Vernon, B Harris, and Wignall, while Bingham is with the Irish team in Germany and Young serving in the Army.  Collins yesterday say manager Harry Catterick had told him he had given further thought to the suggested terms and was now quite happy to accept them.  There has not been an out-right refusal by any player so far.  Collins was bracketed with Vernon and Young for top-ranking payment. 

END OF SEASON BUT NOT END OF FOOTBALL
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 11 May 1961
By Michael Charters
Although the season has ended here with 51,000 at Goodison Park to see Tuesday night's great Senior Cup final, both Everton and Liverpool will be playing abroad in the next few weeks. Everton leave for New York on Monday, flying from Prestwick in a specially chartered plane which will also take the Kilmarnock and Bangu sides, last year's finalists in the initial international tournament in the States. Liverpool fly from London Airport on Saturday for their Czechoslovakian tour. Everton’s progress in New York and Montreal as representatives of the Football League will be of especial interest.  They will be facing some of the best teams in the world, and the toughness of the alleged friendly against Bangu at Goodison, a few weeks ago served warning of the qualities of the opposition in all directions. There is prestige at stake here rather than run-of-the-mill foreign tours, and manager Harry Catterick will have a fine opportunity of seeing his new team playing under the stress and strain of a competition which means something. 
MORE EVERTON MEN SIGN
Nine of Everton ‘s regular first team men have still not re-signed for next season, manager Harry Catterick told me to-day, but he believes they will all accept the terms offered before they leave for New York. In the last two days. Collins. Temple, Meagan and Fell have re-signed. Those still to accept are: Dunlop, Parker, Thomson, Gabriel, Harris, Bingham, Vernon, Young and Wignall. Bingham has been away from the club for a fortnight with the Northern Ireland tour party.  Already signed are; Collins, Temple, Meagan, Fell, Labone, Lill, Ring, Dunne, Mailey, Green, Gannon, Parnell, Sharples, Gorrie, Morton, Tyrer, and Webber.  Mr Catterick said none of the players had refused terms but he felt that they were exercising their right to think about the club's offer before they signed. He was confident that by the end of the week all would have done so. On the basis of Everton gates, and the likelihood of a near 50.000 average next season it the team achieves the success everyone anticipates, the first team players would be earning £2,000 or more. 
RING’S TRAINING PLANS
Everton winger Tommy Ring was at the Senior Cup game and I had a chat with him. He is looking very fit indeed and is pleased with the progress of his broken leg. He told me he is playing in practice games - " but not going into tackles yet" - and will be spending the summer months training. He is looking forward to regaining his form anti his medical reports give him every hope that he will be as good as ever. We all wish him well. It is of interest to look back now on the past eight months of the League programme, with the highlights and disappointments of our senior clubs. Taking Everton first, they ended the season with their highest points total, best scoring record and League position since the 1938-39 season, but, more important they delighted us with some of the most attractive football seen on the ground in post-war years. Of games I saw, I would pick out their displays against Manchester City, Sheffield Wednesday, Cardiff City and Arsenal at home, and at Newcastle United, as outstanding: perhaps the best of all was the first half against Manchester City because both teams played glorious soccer with every player inspired. Their worst display - certainly the most disappointing -was their F.A. Cup defeat by Sheffield United, although their exit from the Football League Cup at Shrewsbury runs it a close second. The best team they played were Tottenham , of Spurs ' 3- 1 win at Goodison Park just before Christmas was alarming as it started the slump which lasted until Easter. But the team's fine form since then, taking 13 points out of a possible 14,   provided the finest possible end to the most significant and momentous season the club has had since the war.
A WORD FOR TEMPLE
The team deserve credit for finishing fifth when one considers that the men who started the season as the regular wingers, Lill and Ring, both missed the majority of the season through injury. This meant the incoming of Billy Bingham for the right flank and a vast amount of shuffling on the left, where Derek Temple earns praise for good displays when he could never be sure of a place from week to week. The arrival of Jimmy Fell from Grimsby Town relegated Temple again to second choice, and he is going on the New York tour as understudy to both wingers. Bingham and Fell. The club is fortunate to have him. The signing of Alex Young and George Thomson made club history as the biggest deal Everton have made. After taking a considerable time to settle to English football, both are playing excellently now. Young is the best centre forward the city has seen since the days of Tommy Lawton and Dixie Dean, although their styles could not be more contrasting. Once Young has finished by his Army career, and is living in this area on full-time training, he could become one of the best ball-playing leaders of as time-clever, artistic, graceful and so entertaining to watch. We haven't seen the best of Young yet, but next season!!!
The player who has made the most marked improvement is Brian Labone, who grew physically and in football stature almost weekly. I never saw him have a bad game , and this also applies to Albert Dunlop, in goal. Incidentally, both were Everton’s only ever-presents last season, and is an oddity that Liverpool's goalkeeper and centre half, Bert Slater and Dick White, qualify for the same feat at Anfleld. Bobby Collins must rate with Labone for consistency, and it was always significant that if Collins didn't hit form, Everton didn’t either. It remains a mystery on Merseyside how Scotland can afford to ignore this little genius and right back Alex Parker. If the Scots have better home- based players than these two, only the selectors know about them.

ROY VERNON SAYS-
Friday, May 12, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
YOU CAN FORGET ALL THOSE STORIES OF REVOLT AT GOODISON
Nobody was more surprised to see stories and hear talk of a revolt over terms at Goodison Park than were the Everton players.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  Negotiation were proceeding and in some cases are still proceeding, but the atmosphere could not be more amicable.  It is simply a case of employers and employees, getting together to arrive at a naturally satisfactory rate of pay.  At the moment I have not resigned but to say I am in conflict with the club is ridiculous, I have not the slightest doubt that we shall reach a mutually amicable decision.  We don’t need any telling that Everton is a first class club with a wonderful reputation for the treatment of it’s staff.  I frankly admit that in general the terms which have been offered are at least as good as anything I have heard from any other club in the North at least.  But when the Professional Footballers Association won for us the right to negotiate our own terms, that was a real development in player-club relations and was achieved only after years of toll.  If we are to accept the first terms offered us by the club that is undermining the victory unless of course we were to consider the club was offering us more than we were worth. 
I HAVE FAITH
I can hardly imagine many instances of that.  On the contrary the danger probably is for players to imagine themselves worth just that bit more than their club and this is where the negotiations begin.  Naturally the lads want to get as much as they can and I don’t for one minute believe the club merely want to give as little as they can.  They want to keep their players happy and content and I have enough faith in Everton to believe that any final solution arrived at will be just.  I think most of the players have had letters from supporters telling us that we should consider ourselves well off and overpaid at £20 a week.  It makes you think it might be a good thing they are only our turnstiles bosses and not the boardroom bosses!  You can bet your life that we are going to America resolved to bring back that New York trophy and I should think this resolve is the greatest possible proof that even in the midst of pay discussions Everton’s heart remains sound.  The more I see of Liverpool the more amazed I am that they have to remain members of the Second Division year after year. Whenever they play us they seem to see red instead of blue and I must confess that they give us game which are as hard as most of our League encounters.  If once they got into the First Division, I am sure their could hold their own, but having sampled Second Division fare with Blackburn I realise just how unsettling football in the lower sphere can be.  You can argue until you are blue in the face but it remains a fact that it is terribly difficult not to play down your opponents.  That, I think is what Liverpool are doing.  Put them up against classier sides and out comes their class as well.  If I detected one flaw in their make-up on Tuesday it was the inclination of both wing halves to play too much upfield. This attacking plan undoubtedly produces goals, but it also produces goals against and it is the ability to stop your opponents from scoring that is the first prerequisite of success particularly in Division Two.  What a player they have unearthed in Ian St John.  He is a real terrier.  He takes the bit between his teeth and never lets go, a worker from start to finish.  If he can score three goals against us with next to no chance, he must have that goal register when Liverpool find a way to put him through.  I have been asked so often in the last few days or two about the penalty incident in our match with Liverpool, when Molyneux brought me down.  Should it have been a penalty.  Let me make a confession and admit that I do not think it should.  Molyneux had no opportunity of doing anything other than knock me down.  From the corner of my eye I caught sight of him pounding up behind me like a tank.  I thought if I stopped dead in my tracks he would run past and I would be able to cut in towards goal.  Instead he crashed into me and down I went. 

FOUR MORE EVERTON PLAYERS HAVE RE-SIGN
Liverpool Echo - Friday 12 May 1961
ALL GOING TO NEW YORK
TERMS ACCEPTED
By Michael Charters
Four more Everton players have now re-signed for next season-Albert Dunlop, Alex Parker, Tommy Jones, and Brian Harris.  All will be going next Monday on the New York tour.  Manager Harry Catterick told me today that he expects Billy Bingham to return to Liverpool and sign this week-end after his Continual trip with the Northern Ireland party.  Alex Young, being a Forces player, is automatically re-signed and the only ones still to accept contracts for next season are Thomson, Gabriel, and Vernon.  As expected, Hibernian centre-forward Joe Baker is certain to sigh for Italian club Turin, Everton’s interest in him went no further than Mr. Catterick’s statement of ten days ago; “Everton are always interested when class players are for transfer.”
JOHN BENTLEY
The first of the Everton players placed on the transfer list has signed for a new club.  He is centre forward John Bentley, who was given a free transfer, and joined Stockport Country today.  Bentley, a Liverpool boy, played for the youth team in the 1959-60 season, and made occasional Central League appearances last season. 

NEW YORK TOURNET TEAMS’ PLANE ARRIVES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 17 May 1961
EVERTON ON BOARD
By Leslie Edwards
When a chartered 120-seater plane touched down at Montreal from Prestwick yesterday the, pilot must have felt deeply relieved.  On board was football talent, including the Everton team, insured for more than £1,000,000.  And that is exclusive of the insurance of Everton multimillionaire chairman. John Moores, who was also aboard. Everton, Shamrock Rovers, Kilmarnock and the Bangu team who appeared at Goodison Park last season, all had parties on the plane.  The Everton team were insured. I understand, for between £300,000 and £350,000. Everton heard to -day that the team travelled well and arrived safely and are now comfortably settled in preparation for their matches next month in the New York International tourney.  Alex Young, the club's Scottish international centre forward who has been touring with the Army team and Scotland's on the Continent, is due to arrive back in Britain on Friday and will fly next day to join his team mates in Montreal The question of his getting further leave to play for his club abroad, was a vexed one and Everton had to appeal indirectly to Mr. John Profumo, Secretary of State for War, in order to get Young's release. It is expected that the decision to release Young for a, further period of weeks will be the subject of questions in the House.

“COLLINS FOR CHELSEA” IS THE WHISPER…
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 17 May 1961
By Leslie Edwards
RUMOUR still links the name of Joe Baker, a son of Liverpool, with the city of his birth. When last I spoke to him Everton manager, Harry Catterick, was not hopeful that Baker would come to Merseyside for two reasons : (a) That Everton were not going to compete with the Italians' fancy prices for our players and (b) that his club were not having any part in an auction. The whisper that Baker would like to come here, coupled with another whisper that Chelsea would like Bobby Collins, points to a possibility, no more, that Baker could act as a spearhead with Young utilised in one of the inner positions. That is an intriguing possibility, though it would not please one of my most discerning readers from Eastham, whose appreciation of Young's worth as a link between the attacking flanks can be found below. Collins, forthright off the field, is a dynamic little man who might conceivably feel it best to move on from Goodison Park when the mood takes him. I should be sorry to see him go, but the ever-recurring rumour is that he will be Chelsea's player before next season begins. In which case, if Baker came, we should have the three top-class Scottish centres all playing in this city at the same time. What a prospect!
Mr. West, from 35 St. David Road, Eastham, makes telling points that Young should be left where he is. He says: “Recent statements in the Merseyside Press to the effect that Alex Young is not a centre forward and should be accommodated elsewhere are. I think, ill-considered to say the least. Why do some journalists still adhere to the old-fashioned theory of the absolute necessity of having a spearhead centre forward? Don't they realise that this idea was finally squashed when the Hungarians thrashed us at Wembley, and don't they appreciate that it was this type of static thinking that made Britain a backward soccer nation? "Young is a superb footballer, as also are Collins, Vernon. &c. What does it matter who scores the goals long as a reasonable number are scored and that in the process the forward line (and team) play flowing and attractive football? “In modem soccer the number nine in itself denotes nothing except as a means of recognition. These days every member of a team must be capable of creating and taking chances. The true art of soccer is in movement and fluidity, fitness and finesse, imagination and improvisation. “Very few teams can afford the luxury of a stereotyped, rigid player in any position. Incidentally, there is little basis on recent results, for the remarks I refer to. Since Young, struck something like his normal form he has, I believe, scored at the rate of more than one goal per match, but more important, other players scored regularly again (more openings made!) and the team began to play brilliantly once more. You know. I am now confirmed in my belief that the ill-informed vocal minority among spectators are nurtured and encouraged by poor journalism. “The topic opens many avenues for debate, because it is a symptom of what is still wrong with English football. I could write much more, particularly in regard to making our cubs true sports centres on the Russian and Continental style. However, I will conclude by being narrow and parochial and say that Everton will provide wonderful entertainment in the years to come. Wouldn't it be nice if we could watch in real comfort?"
R.D. Webster (31 Sandyville Road. Walton) congratulates Everton. He writes:  “The 1960-61 season has come and gone, and has left all Evertonians in joyful mood over the prospects for the 1961-62 season. As an ordinary supporter, may I pass my vote of thanks to Everton? If there were disappointments (and I think of the games v. Tottenham, Sheffield United and Shrewsbury), the pleasures were there in profusion—Wolves, Manchester City, Sheffield Wednesday, Newcastle United, Arsenal. Cardiff City matches. &c. What memories these games bring! "Now for the player of the year. My choice may not tally with others, but I name Brian Labone, Collins, Vernon, Parker and Young had off days, but Labone I cannot recall having a poor match throughout the season. Collins must be runner-up. And a word for Alex Parker, whose form in the last few games makes his non-recall by Scotland a mockery. The most points and goals since 1939 were obtained and the all-round football ability of the side made some sides fielded in recent years appear now as bad dreams. "Of the Juniors and their great efforts to win the Youth Cup. I pick out Sharpies by a hairline, with Webber almost his equal. Mailey and Jarvis, too, performed very well. Of course, the coach. Les Shannon, and trainer Frank Blundell should also be commended for efforts behind scenes."

READERS' VIEWS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 18 May 1961 
REGARDING your statement that Alex Young is the best centre forward to come Goodman Park since Dixie Dean. As staunch supporter of Everton, surely nobody can voice such an opinion as that without further considering the ability of that other great centre forward. Tom Lawton? I know Young is good: in fact very good, but let us not run away from the fact that in the four months he has been at Goodison Park we have had opportunity to compare his style with those who had many years with the club. If Young Is still at Goodison Park In three, four or five years' time that is the time to compare him with the best centre forwards the club have had in the past—T. Reid. 112 a Hawthorne Road.
Tottenham proved thot the real positions of authority in a team are those of the wing half backs. Blanchflower and Mac Kay dictated the rhythm of the team. White, a non-glory-seeking and much under-rated player ensures that the rhythm is maintained and the punch is provided by the four remaining forwards, all of whom are consistent scorers. Thus a forward line in which only Cliff Jones can be rated as really great becomes a goal - scoring machine. With Everton this is not the case. Gabriel is an excellent reader of the game and always does his best to start the attack in motion, but instead of a linkman carrying on the move the pattern is modulated by highly individualistic inside forwards. Everton have sufficient striking power as it is, and with the innovation of a forceful wing half back it is necessary to have only one link-man who should be Alex Young. It is significant that other top clubs all possess a clever player between two strong forceful wing halves and four goal- scoring forwards. It is, therefore, reasonable to conclude that Everton would do better to bur another forceful half- back.-G. Donalson, 27  Sonning Aveaue, Ford.
I have just finished reading your report of the Cup final. The referee did not give a free kick to Leicester for the offence, as you describe it, on Chalmers. I saw no mention of the number of times Cliff Jones was up-ended. I don't think Leicester would have scored if they had played until now and with eleven men, too. If we had a team in this city as great as Spurs, I for one, would be very proud to be one of its supporters.  I remember being at White Hart Lane the first match of the season and saw the same Spurs side beat Everton, with only ten men. Cliff Jones being a passenger for most of the second half and leaving the field before the finish. And don't forget, Lill and Ring were then playing for Everton. Please give credit where it is due. Good luck to a great Sours side and my they win the European Cup so complete the treble —W. Mitchell, 23 Sandhead Street, Liverpool 7.

MR. CAREY LIKELY TO TURN DOWN PLYMOUTH
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 18 May 1961
Salary Offer Of £3,000
AS MANAGER
By Leslie Edwards
Mr John Carey, the Everton manager deposed at short notice a few weeks before the end of the season, will not, understand, be joining Plymouth Argyle, a club which is reported to have offered him a salary of £3.000 a year. Mr. Carey has just returned from a long trip South during which he met the Plymouth Argyle chairman. Mr. Blindell, and other directors, at their request. Mr. Carey said to-day: "It is true that I have been to Plymouth to see Plymouth directors, but I have no comment on the outcome of our talks." My own Impression is that Mr. Carey will not be accepting Plymouth's tempting offer. 

SHANNON IS HAPPY AT EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 19 May 1961
BLACKBURN MOVE DENIED
EVERTON COACH
By Leslie Edwards
Leslie Shannon, the Everton F.C., coach, is happy at Goodison Park and unless circumstances change will be staying there.  This kills the idea that Blackburn Rovers will be appointing him in succession to their first team trainer, the old Portsmouth centre forward Jack Weddle.  Shannon, a Liverpool man, was a player with Liverpool and Burnley before he joined Everton the season before last as coach.  He has got together some very good young players and he takes the Everton Youth team on tour in Holland shortly and then leaves for Switzerland, where he has been chosen by the F.A for an international coaching course.  Leslie said today; “I have seen reports linking my name with Blackburn.  All I can say is that I am happy where I am.  Unless circumstances change, I shall be staying.  I’m more concerned now over the Dutch tour and my course in Switzerland.”

STAN EDWARDS MOVES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 20 May 1961
Stanley Edwards, who was recently given a free transfer by Everton, has signed for Port Vale. Edwards was born at West Bromwich and joined Everton as an amateur from Rhyl in September, 1959. He turned professional in December that year It is understood that Stoke City were also interested in, Edwards, who played outside left in the Everton Youth side which reached the final of the F.A. Youth Cup this year.
GRIFITHS SIGNS
Southport left back Bryan Griffiths re-signed yesterday, only the second player to be fixed up for next season.  The other is Fred Leeder, also a full back.  Both were formerly with Everton.

EVERTON WAITING FOR F.A. RULING
Liverpool Echo - Monday 22 May 1961
THREAT OF TOUR BAN
ROUS VIEW
Montreal, Monday, Mr. Harry Catterick of Everton, said here that the club were awaiting word from the Football Association before deciding whether to compete in the America International Soccer League.  Mr. Catterick was commenting on last night’s statement in Lisbon by Sir Stanley Rous, Secretary of the F.A that the American League is “illegal” until sanctioned by F.I.F.A the international football federation of which Sir Stanley is an executive.  Mr. Joseph Slyomves, president of the Montreal Concordia club, who Everton meet in their first match in the League tomorrow said he had heard nothing of Sir Stanley’s statement.  He said “I don’t see what the international federation would find wrong with our operations.  The League is in its second year and this is the first we’ve heard about this.  “Each team participating in the International league have received permission from the governing bodies in their own countries.” 
NO WISH TO BAN
Sir Stanley said there was no wish to ban ort suspend any club.  If a team unwittingly entered an unauthorised tournament nothing serious was likely to happen to them.  But F.I.F.A were insisting that all international competitions must get their approval.  The Americans had bene asked to forward their rules for inspection by F.I.F.A.  Mr. Jack Flamhaft, a top American officials, said F.I.F.A had been told in March that the series would take place. 

ROUS CABLES EVERTON; PLAY ON-BUT...
Tuesday, May 23, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
Sir Stanley Rous, secretary of the Football Association, replied yesterday to a cable from Mr. Alan Hardaker, the Football League secretary, asking whether Everton should be allowed to play in the American International League tournament.  Sir Stanley, who is also an executive of F.I.F.A the international Federation, is understood to have replied that Everton could take part in the competition provided the United States Football Association took full responsibility for the tournament and got the necessary sanction from F.I.F.A to run it.  Sir Stanley’s reply followed cables which travelled between New York, Lytham St Annes and Rome yesterday in an attempt to settle the issue.  Everton now in New York, cabled Mr. Hardaker in St. Annes, Mr. Hardaker sent a wire to Sir Stanley in Rome which read; “Everton cabled me.  Are they allowed to play or not?  Request urgent decision.  First Match Tuesday.  Cannot break contract unless F.A and F.I.F.A make a decision.”  Earlier F.I.F.A said in Zurich that the scheduled “New York tournament was not formally approved by the Federation and was, therefore, illegal as far as F.I.F.A were concerned. Dr. Helmuth Kaester F.I.F.A secretary general told reporters the Federation will not allow an international tournament unless the programme and rules have been formally submitted for F.I.F.A approval.  He added; The organisers of the New York tourney have failed to do so therefore we cannot approve it.” But a spokesman for the American organisers said they have sent two sets of their rules and regulations to F.I.F.A.  Mr. Liecty secretary of the New York Soccer Club and a leading official of the league, told Reuter that a set of rules had been sent to the Federation “several weeks ago.” He added “It now appears these may have been lost however and in view of the present situation we have just sent off another set.” 

EVERTON CAN PLAY IN NEW YORK IF…
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 23 May 1961
By Leslie Edwards
SIR STANLEY ROUS, is understood to have told Mr. Alan Hardaker, Football League Secretary, that Everton can play in the American International tourney provided the American F.A. take full responsibility for the tournament and have the International Federation's (FIFA.) permission. Everton are due to play their first tournament match, against Montreal Concordia, to-night.  Mr. Hardaker had cabled Sir Stanley, who is in Rome with the England team, asking if Everton should be allowed to play in the tournament. Sir Stanley is also an F.I.F.A. executive. In New York, an American League official said the tournament organisers had sent their rules to F.I.F.A. several weeks ago. He said: "It appears these may have been lost, and in view of the present situation we have just sent off another set. There seemed to be only technical difficulty and the Federation had already given its approval "in form" to the league tournament. "We are not anticipating any trouble," he added.
Chedgzoy calls on Everton
SINCE my last few notes the boys are really settling down; in fact one could almost say we are becoming indoctrinated to the Canadian way of life (writes Tom Jones of Everton, from Montreal). "As we are on an eating allowance it is only natural the boys are finding the cheapest, yet most wholesome meals to be obtained. Hamburgers are becoming an institution along with French fried, potatoes, or should I say the old sixpen'worth! "Two of the party, the Brians (Harris and Labone).now sport crew cuts, and most athletic in their new appearance. Expensive is the word for haircuts. One of the Brian, really went to town and had along with his haircut a shampoo and shave. When I mention that the equivalent cost in English money amounted to 30s you may gather that some of us will be arriving back in Liverpool with our tresses almost tripping us. "We spent a really arduous training session at Taillon Stadium, which is well equipped with showers and dressing accommodation. Mr Catterick again emphasised the need for peak fitness, and the boys realise it is a matter of club and country in this prestige tournament. “Some of our older fans may remember Sam Chedgzoy in his playing days.  He called in on us, and Billy Bingham was ribbed into asking him for some of his advice regarding wing play! Sam played soccer here until he was 50 or more and even to-day (in his 70's) looks remarkably fit. Brian Harris and I met him in New York five years back. He asked me to send his best wishes to all Evertonians, in particular Mr. Hughie Stockton, of Eastham, a bosom pal of his in the old days.
MACEDO IN THE NETS
“On the next field to us at Taillon were the local Canadian team, Concordia, who are to be our first opponents.  They appear to be keen to see that they are as fit as can be.  They were out doing their ‘routines’ before we hit the stadium and were still kicking that ball around when we finished.  Maybe they are making up for lost time.  Apparently Concordia are making use of one or two English players.  Tony Macedo, Fulham’s first string goalkeeper, has come over to, as they put it, be used in nets —purely a Canadian saying. "Tony came over with his Fulham buddy and Chairman of the Professional Players' Association, bearded Jimmy Hill. Jimmy has come to join the administration department of Montreal Concordia soccer club, on the invitation of Concordian president Joe Slyomovics and executive Doug Smith. Both are convinced that Jimmy can do a good job of selling soccer to the Montreal public. "Our lads looked forward to their first taste of competitive soccer over here when: Birmingham City were opponents of Montreal Cantalia on Sunday. Prices are from a dollar upwards, which isn't what one would call cheap. “As former colleague Jimmy Harris was with the Birmingham party there was quite a reunion. Jimmy hit the local headlines the other day by impressing the sportswriters with his powerful shooting in practice. "A final tit-bit. Jimmy Gabriel's suitcase has been located—in New York. We reckon that with his Scottish accent his instructions had been misconstrued. It'll be nice to see him in a change of clothing..."

MR. MOORES ‘PHONES F..IF.A SECRETARY
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 23 May 1961
EVERTON CAN PLAY RULING
N.Y TOURNEY
By Leslie Edwards
Everton’s first match in the New York world soccer tournament tonight –against Concordia, of Canada in Montreal-can take place and with the blessing of F.I.F.A., the world federation of football associations, who had threatened a few days ago to forbid it.  Secretary-general of F.I.F.A., Dr. Helmuth Kaeser, told me this today when I spoke to him by telephone at F.I.F.A headquarters in Zurich.  He said; “Mr. John Moores, the Everton directors, telephoned me this morning from Montreal asking what the position of his club was in relation to the New York tourney.  I told him that the match to-night could go on and that it was not Everton’s fault that we had not received from the orgainisers of the events a copy of their rules for the competition.  We should have received these some days ago, but they did not arrive.  Now the promoters are sending a further copy.  These should be with us shortly.  “We do not want to forbid football anywhere.  An event such as the one in New York does a lot of good for the game.  But you must realise that we are the International body controlling football all over the world and one of our status is that we must see the regulations governing competitions before we permit our clubs to play.  “If we do not receive from New York the regulations we require, we shall take the necessary measures.  We cannot permit tournaments about which we know nothing.  I anticipate no difficulty now that the New York organisers know where they stand.” 

EVERTON WIN 1-0 IN CANADA
Wednesday, May 24 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton won their first match in the America International Soccer League 1-0, in Montreal today, after being held 0-0 at half-time by Montreal Concordia.  Everton were meeting opponents who had already played once in the tournament, Concordia had recently been beaten 3-0 by New York Americans, who comprise mainly British players.  Centre forward Young, who is on leave from the Army scored Everton’s goal after twenty-seven minutes of the second half with a low shot that lid under Concordia goalkeeper Tony Macedo.  The crowd, estimated at 8,000 saw Everton had the edge over Concordia during most of the game.  Everton’s next match is against Kilmarnock-in Montreal this week.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Thomson; Gabriel, Labone, Harris; Bingham, Collins, Young, Vernon, Fell.  Montreal Concordia;- Macedo; Lopez, McNeice; Horvath, Marinaro, Barrette; Dadderio, Jorga, Maule, Melao, Sanches. 
TWO PLAYERS ORDERED OFF
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 24 May 1961
YOUND SCORES VITAL GOAL
Montreal, Wednesday.  Two players were sent off and another carried off hurt when Everton beat Montreal Concordia 1-0 here last night in the American International soccer league.  Billy Bingham, Everton’s Irish international winger, was sent off midway through the first half.  Home right winger H. Daddero went off on a stretcher with an ankle injury after 20 minutes of the second half, then five minutes from the end Concorda full back Lopez was ordered off.  The game was marked by rough play and the referee, Mr. Phil Betz, had his hands full.  Bingham was sent off after 22 minutes following an incident involving Concordias centre forward Tito Maule.  Dadderio was said to have a suspected fractured ankle, Lopez was sent off after Everton left winger Jimmy Fell was seen sprawling on the ground.  Concordia seemed out of Everton’s class during most of the game and a crowd estimated at 8,000 saw the visitors outplay the Canadians during most of the game.  Centre forward Alex Young scored Everton’s goal with a low shot that slid under Concordia’s goalkeeper, Tony Macedos of Fulham.  Young cut in from the left wing and shot from about 20 yard into the left-hand corner.  Bobby Collins, Everton inside right, was the outstanding player.   
Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Thomson; Gabriel, Labone, Harris; Bingham, Collins, Young, Vernon, Fell.  Montreal Concordia;- Macedo; Lopez, McNeice; Horvath, Marinaro, Barrette; Dadderio, Jorga, Maule, Meule, Sanches.  –Reuter and A.P

SOME LAWS; DIFFERENT INTERPRETATIONS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 25 May 1961
By Leslie Edwards
Everton’s initial experience in Canada, coupled with similar happenings in other parts of the world, suggests that it time F.I.F.A inaugurated some scheme for the world-wide interpretation and appreciation of the laws of the game.  Much of the trouble on the Continent, and sometimes in this Country, too, stems from the fact that what is permissible in one land is not permissible in another.  Referee’s interpret the laws of the game so differently trouble is almost inevitable.  The Continental disinclination to have the goalkeeper harried and charged is, I think, the best contribution of the new world of football.  I have always thought it unfair that a goalkeeper whose attention is devoted to fielding the ball or catching it should be sitting prey to any forward who cares to time his charge at the right spot and place. The game would be fairer and better if goalkeepers had the protection they deserve. If they were given it the laws would need to be changed in relation to time wasting since so many goalkeepers so protected waste time bouncing the ball before clearing it. The Bangu goalkeeper seen at Goodison Park a few months ago was the perfect example of a man capitalising Everton's obvious effort not to challenge him. Finally, of course, Wignall was tempted into showing his contempt for such tactics. When I spoke to Harry Catterick yesterday in Montreal, he was anxious to know whether there had been any big transfer news in Britain during his absence. The only conclusion to be drawn from this interest, at a distance, in affairs here is that Everton are still displaying mare than passing interest in Joe Baker. Whether he will come here is anyone's guess. If Everton's tour continues as it has begun it looks as though they may well have to look for replacements, early next season, for their injured! The more I see and hear of football in the summer the more I am convinced we should be given a full four months' rest between seasons.
A Harold Uren memory
OLD Hand writes: "Shortly before the 1914-18 war, Liverpool became interested in a well-built Hoylake amateur outside left. Harold Uren, and Tom Watson persuaded him to sign on as a professional. "Uren was fast and strong, with a baffling swerving run, and was obviously destined to become a great player. While Uren was developing his talents. Everton formed a great liking for him and after much persuasion they got Liverpool to agree to a transfer on the terms that Everton gave Liverpool a young Irish utility player. Billy Lacey, also Bob Gracie, a Scots international and the sum of £400 in return for Uren.  Billy Lacey blossomed into a truly great player in the Johnny Carey mould, playing in any position superbly, winger, inside forward, half-back or full back, and rendered yeoman service for many years. "Harold Uren did not continue in football for long, and retired to follow a business career. He was the father of the noted Rugby players of Waterloo and England.

EVERTON WIN 2-1 IN CANADA
Friday, May 26, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
Montreal, Tuesday . 
Two goals in seven minutes by Bobby Collins put Everton on top in their international Soccer League game against Kilmarnock here tonight.  His first came after fifteen minutes from a pass by inside left Alex Young.  Seven minutes later Collins drove in a shot from the centre forward position after Young had hit the post.  Soon after Collins’ second goal, inside left Jack McInally missed a good chance for the Scot’s when he headed just over the bar.  Towards the interval Kilmarnock tried hard to reduce the arrears but all they could muster were a few long shots which were easily dealt with by Albert Dunlop in the Everton goal.  In the second half, the Scots pressed hard and centre-forward Kerr scored.  But Everton held on to their lead and ran out winners 2-1.
BINGHAM IS FINED £9
Billy Bingham of Everton and Hector Lopez, of Montreal Concordia were each fined £25 (£9) for their part in a fracas during an International Soccer league game, in Montreal on Tuesday.  Lopez and Bingham were said to have exchanged punches during the rough match, which Everton won 1-0.  Concordia coach Skender Perolli, who ran on to the field during the fight, was given a warning by the Quebec Soccer Association. 

MOVE FROM MONTREAL
Liverpool Echo - Friday 26 May 1961
Tom Jones, of Everton, writes from Montreal.- By invitation of the crew of the Empress of Britain the lads spent a pleasant evening aboard before the ship left for Liverpool. "I suppose it was only natural but most of the Liverpudlians were in hiding as it was a night for Evertonians! How well those lads welcomed us. One would have thought we had won the Cup by the enthusiasm we were accorded. Nothing was too much trouble for any of the crew and we were entertained to a meal afloat and a visit to the ship's "Pig," which for the knowledge of landlubbers, is the crew's rest room. There were one or two present who were associated with the Everton lads in some capacity or other. One was the elder brother of Roy Parnell, our young full-back of whom we are expecting great things; another was a friend of Derek Temple's. On board, too was a brother of Ipswich full-back, Len Carberry and a cousin of Dick Neal, the Birmingham wing -half who, along, with Trevor Smith and Brian Orritt were present in The Pig. "Through the Echo I would like to thank the crew of the "Britain" for their kind invitation and a wonderful evening. Skipper, Bobby Collins and I went along at the request of John Barclay, a Scottish lad and an amateur player for Verdun Celtic, here, in Montreal. It was to watch a game between his team and Espanol. Bobby was here with Glasgow Celtic some five years back and the celebrated Scottish club presented this amateur team with a set of Jerseys. Naturally the nucleus of the eleven were Scots. "However, I sorted out one Liverpool lad who appears to have had an interesting background. He was goalkeeper Dave Travers who played for Liverpool schoolboys around 1955 and later for Old Swan Tech. Dave told me that he's been here five years but originally came from the Knotty Ash district. I came from the same district so we spoke the same language. It's a small world
Alex Young “dead “from travel
"This is a holiday week-end in Montreal. The majority of folk work a five-day week as at home but Monday is what's known as Dominion Day, so everyone is heading for the hills and doing some fishing, the favourite form of relaxation. "Sunday, too, was clay off from the grind of training for the boys but we spent the afternoon on a busman's holiday watching the game between Birmingham City and an Italian immigrant team, Catania. The ground had at one time been a baseball stadium but has now been converted for soccer purposes. It shows the tremendous popularity soccer has attained over here. But I'm afraid Birmingham didn't put on too good a show to further its popularity. We were a little disappointed with the way the English players performed. Possibly they may have been antagonised by the attitude of their Continentally-minded opponents.
"We were hoping that Jimmy Harris would have been fit enough to lead the Blues forward line but he twisted his knee in the game at New York and was left out. Along with Bertie Auld, Birmingham's late signing from Glasgow Celtic. Jimmy was on the touchline nursing his injury. "The result was 1-0 in the Catalian team's favour, the goal resulting in Schofield's only mistake in an otherwise excellent game. The only other players who played up to form in the Birmingham line up were the full backs Farmer and Allen, centre half Smith, and the ex-Arsenal inside forward Bloomfield. "Alex Young, our Scottish international centre forward, arrived here around breakfast time this morning. Alex was telling me that he only left Greece on Saturday morning and he felt absolutely 'dead' after such travelling. Incidentally he helped the Army XI in Salonica to draw with the Greek Army two goals apiece."

COLLINS SCORES TWICE V. KILMARNOCK
Liverpool Echo - Friday 26 May 1961
EVERTON TOP LEAGUE
2-1 VICTORY
Montreal, Friday.  Everton beat Kilmarnock 2-1 in their American international soccer league match here last night, after leading 2-0 at half-time.  Bobby Collins scored both Everton goals.  Andy Kerr scored for Kilmarnock.  Everton victory before a crowd estimated about 4,000 gives them the lead in the League.  They dominated play most of the time, much the same way as they did last Tuesday when they defeated Montreal Concordia 1-0.  Collin’s goals came at the 15th and 22nd minutes, both from passes by inside left Alex Young.  Centre forward Frank Wignall got the first chance to test Kilmarnock goalkeeper Sandy McLaughlin, when he took the ball from inside left Jack McNally and drove a hard shot towards Kilmarnock’s net.  Shortly afterwards outside right Billy Bingham headed the ball towards the net but McLaughlin again cleared.  Play was even at first in the second half, then Kilmarnock threatened danger in several goalmouth scrambles.  Three times Dunlop had to dive through a maze of legs to grab the ball following corners. 
FELL’S EFFORTS
At the other end outside-left Jimmy Fell twice tested McLaughlin, and each time the Kilmarnock goalkeeper brought off a good save.  Kilmarnock’s goal came after 32 minutes of the second half, Kerr banging in a rebound.  In the dying moments of the game Kilmarnock swarmed around the Everton goal, and Dunlop was again busy.  Most of the time, however, the Scot’s shooting was off the target.  Everton now have four points from two games.  Kilmarnock have yet to win.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Thomson; Gabriel, Labone, Harris; Bingham, Collins, Wignall, Young, Fell.  Kilmarnock; McLaughlin; Richmond, Watson; Beattie, Toner, Kennedy; Brown, Black, Kerr, McNally, Muir, Reuter. 

EVERTON LEAD THE LEAGUE
Saturday, May 27 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON 2, KILMARMOCK 1
Everton’s 2-1 victory over Kilmarnock, in Montreal before a crowd estimated at about 4,000 gives them the lead in the League.  They dominated play most of the time, much the same way as they did last Tuesday, when they defeated Montreal Concordia, 1-0.  Play was even, at first, in the second half, before Collins scored twice for Everton.  Then Kilmarnock threatened danger in several goalmouth scrambles.  Three times, Dunlop had to dive through a maze of legs to grab the ball, following corners.  At the other end, outside-left Jimmy Fell twice tested McLaughlin, and each time the Kilmarnock goalkeeper brought off a good save.  Kilmarnock’s goal came after thirty-two minutes of the second half, Kerr banging in a rebound.  In the dying moments, of the game, Kilmarnock swarmed round the Everton goal, and Dunlop was again busy.  Most of the time, however, the Scots shooting was off the target.  Everton now have four points from two games.  Kilmarnock have yet to win.  Everton; Dunlop; Parker, Thomson; Gabriel, Labone, Harris; Bingham, Collins, Wignall, Young, Fell.  Kilmarnock; McLaughlin; Richmond, Watson; Beattie, Toner, Kennedy; Brown, Black, Kerr, McNally, Muir. 

“DIXIE” HAS A COME-BACK FROM HOSPITAL
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 27 May 1961
That almost legendary Everton F C character, Bill (Dixie) Dean, is now, I'm happy to say, out of hospital at Chester and moving towards recovery after his illness.  He spent seven weeks or so in the hospital. It began as influenza and developed into a breakdown that called for careful treatment. His stay in hospital was brightened considerably for the great ex-centre forward by the messages he received from fans and friends everywhere. One for the welcome callers at his sick bed was his former colleagues of Everton’s forward line, little Jimmy Dunn, the Scottish International who was with Dixie in the Everton Cup winning team of 1933. His mail bag also included a grand, long letter from another mighty Everton star of yesteryear, Sam Chedzoy. Sam now lives in Canada and this week I read that he had been along to say hello to the Everton team which is touring over there. Only one cloud passed over Billy Dean’s horizon while he was in hospital, according to his cousin, Mr. W.R Shotton of 20 Sandy Lane, Garden City, Queensferry.  He was rather hurt that nobody at Goodison Park had sent him a word or inquired after him.” Mr. Shotton told me. 

EVERTON F.C. QUIT THEIR HOTEL
Monday, May 29, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
The Everton team and their officials packed their bags and moved out of the hotel used as headquarters by the International Soccer League in New York yesterday.  No official reason was given and Mr. Fred Micklesfield, an Everton director, refused to discuss the matter.  “I am not prepared to comment in any shape or form,” he said.  The team had stayed at the hotel before.  “That’s all there is; that’s the answer.” 

PETER FARRELL
Monday, May 29, 1961. The Liverpool Daily Post
EX-EVERTON STAR JOINS HOLYHEAD
A former Everton F.C captain, Peter Farrell, has signed for the Welsh League (Division 1) club, Holyhead Town, as player-manager for next season.  Farrell has gained many representative honours for Eire and was signed by Everton from the League of Ireland Club, Shamrock Rovers with outside left Tommy Eglington in 1946.  He gave wonderful service to Everton for over 12 seasons before joining Tranmere Rovers as manager.  He was an outstanding figure in Everton’s rise under the management of Cliff Britton and was considered the key-man in their 5-year plan.  One day that Farrell will not forget was September 21, 1949.  For at Goodison Park on that day Farrell scored the second goal, for Eire to bring about England’s first home international defeat.  He is equally at home at either right or wing half and is considered one of the best wing half backs in the game.  He takes up his new duties immediately and will have full charge of team signings, and team selection. 
EVERTON MEET BANGU ON JUNE 11#
Organisers of the International Soccer League tournament announced these new dates for the following matches.  June 11-Bangu v. Everton; Dynamo v. Karlsruhe. 

ON-THE-SPOT REPORT OF EVERTON CLASH WITH CONCORDIA
Liverpool Echo - Monday 29 May 1961
By Michael Charters
The first on-the-spot report of Everton’s contentious match against the Montreal club, Concordia, in the opening game of the New York international tournament, has been received from Tom Jones, the Everton centre half, who is contributing notes on the tour for the Echo.  This is the game in which Everton winger Billy Bingham was sent off for the first match in a distinguishing career and the Concordia full back, Lopez, also received marching orders.  Tom Jones writes;
“Although it isn’t my position or real intention to report our games here, I feel I must stretch a point and devote these notes to our first game in the tournament.  “You will know that we won through an Alex Young goal midway through the second half but that was not all.  This was a game which made you proud to belong to Everton, a game which had everything –soccer, spirit and a never say die attitude from all the team.  “You may remember the Bangu friendly at Goodison towards the latter end of the season.  Well, this game was a repetition, only even more so.  “After 20 minutes Billy Bingham was sent off after being butted by one of the opposition and retaliating as any normal being would.  The hacking and kicking after the ball had been played had to be seen to be believed.  “But the boys in blue, never wavered an inch.  In fact, they came back for more and threw everything into the game that their physical attributes could afford.  “We played football, football and more football.  There could only be one culmination and it came in Alex’s goal from a glorious through pass from Jimmy Fell.  “Jimmy almost got a second minutes later and was injured in the process.  But the boys refused to lie down.  They tackled as if life depended on it and played as hard as their opponents and that was hard.  “Incidents abounded.  Often the game was stopped while a ruck of players almost took matters into their own hands.  “Some of the players on the touchline were so incensed at one point that they ran on to the pitch when they noticed that the Concordia coach had encroached the field of play to demonstrate in no uncertain manner.  “During this melee one of the reserves was kicked by one of their players.  The stoppages were such that the game ran 13 minutes over.  “If this is to be the way of the tournament than you can be sure our lads will not fail through want of effort and spirit.  It was simple tremendous and as Sam Chedgzoy said afterwards; “Everton are the best team he has seen here in his 25 years in this country.” 
A DAY OUT
Before Tom Jones’ notes on the match arrived, he had also sent this happy article on a day out the Everton players had in Canada before the Concordia clash.  He writes;
“Mr. Catterick arranged a coach run out for the lads to a mountain resort named The Alpine Inn near Laurentian mountains at Ste Marguerite, Quebec.  “This resort is simply out of this world.  They cater for skiing, skating, tobogganing and sleigh driving.  They have two modern ski tows and a network of trails for novices and average skiers.  “For the experts they have a run named Mount Baldy, and also sleigh rides to nearby French-Canadian villages.  This is all in season.  “During our stay the lads relaxed playing on the putting green with tremendous side-stakes of 10 cents a time.  Bobby Collins and I took on Brian Harris and Brian Labone.  After we won the first 18 holes the lads wouldn’t let us take our winnings and decided to double or quit.  Naturally, they went to town and won the return.  “I don’t know how much truth there is in this story but some of the boys took one of the trails up into the mountains.  During this escapade one reckoned he almost caught a squirrel and another quipped that Derek Temple was shot at twice, someone mistaking his crewcut for an animal of kind.  Maybe it was the rare air up there, hallucinations and all that.  “We finished by having a wonderful meal in this Swiss atmosphere.  Some of the cine enthusiasts among us took some film to remember this great day.” 

EVERTON WERE ON TOP
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 30 May 1961
Everton Tom Jones has sent his final report from Montreal before the Everton party moved on to New York. It seems the boys were on top of the world after winning both their Montreal games. He says: "By winning against Kilmarnock, who competed in the final last year against Bangu the boys head the table. The game was no classic by the standards our lads have set, but they did sufficient in the first half to win by four or five goals. The fact that they didn't must emphasise that this competition is no easy meat by any standards. Kilmarnock threw everything into a second half assault, but Everton won through by sheer graft and football which should, bad luck apart, have put the lads in a commanding position. "It was a mixture of good soccer and hard forceful play. We led through two goals from Bobby Collins until 12 minutes from time when Andy Kerr, the Kilmarnock centre, scored a somewhat lucky goal. Naturally, in the closing minutes this gave the Scottish contingent a boost, but we won through. The team spirit is simply terrific. I think the whole 16 of us were out there in spirit yelling ourselves hoarse. We look forward to the remaining fixtures with confidence. "As Brian Harris, our deputy 'keeper, and Frank Wignall, the second stand-in, were forced to play, as Mick Meagan and Roy Vernon are on the injured list, yours truly bad to strip in case anything should happen to Albert Dunlop. I’ve only played goal in the occasional five a side, so you may well imagine my feelings. Every time Albert looked hurt, I was calling on trainer Gordon Watson to do everything in his power to keep him on the field. My lucky star was out so I kept a watching role, and thankfully too. I've always contended that a 'keeper, in the top sphere that is, has to be a little haywire to give his best, and I don't consider myself in this respect, even though I was prepared should the eventuality arise. “We had fantastic support from the Evertonians among the crew of the Empress of Canada, I believe there were a couple of hundred amongst the crowd. Allied to the Liverpudlians now resident In Montreal, we didn't lack support. Yes! A great day to be sure, and now roll on New York where we hope for more and, if possible, fresh conquests."
FARRELL COMES BACK
Peter Farrell former Everton skipper and ex-Tranmere manager, has decided to return to the game and has accepted the position of player-manager with Holyhead Town, the Welsh League Division One club. After he left Prenton Park, Peter took a job in industry in Bromborough and retired from football completely. But the call of the sport has proved too strong, and Peter's many friends on Merseyside will wish him well next season. He will be in charge of team selection and the signing of players although I understand he will keep his job in Bromborough as well. Holyhead, the nearest Welsh spot to Ireland, have frequently engaged Irish players who come over from Dun Laoghaire and more or less step off the boat on to the playing pitch. No doubt Mr. Farrell will be able to attract more of his countrymen to play in this good-class non-League football. While he has been out of football, he has been a regular attender at Prenton Park and Goodison Park, but his watching brief has ended now. He will be playing regularly, and one other former League star who will be among the opposition is Gordon Hurst. ex-Charlton winger, who has become player-coach at Llandudno. They played against each other many times in post-war football.

JIMMY HARRIS POPS THE QUESTION-TO ROBERTA BROWN
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 30 May 1961
Happily showing me a beautiful diamond solitaire engagement ring on her finger, lovely, blonde Roberta Brown, former "Miss Liverpool" and Southport " English Rose," said: "We became engaged on my 19th birthday, just before Jimmy went to Canada " Jimmy is Jimmy Harris, good-looking footballer, now of Birmingham City and formerly of Everton. He is at present on a Canadian tour with his club. Went on Roberta, "No wedding date has been fixed, for we didn't have time to go into details before Jimmy left. “It may be later this year, and I expert we shall live near Birmingham “In 1958, when Roberta won the title of - Miss Liverpool." she said. firmly to all inquiries: "I'm not thinking about marriage for another ten years or so.  Roberta's 17 – years-old sister  Geraldine, was this year's Panto Princess for the University Rag Day. The family live at 110B Sceptre Road, Liverpool 11.
Transferred for £20,000 fee
The beauty contest career of cheery, unspoilt Roberta brought her a nice bank balance as well as widespread admiration.  She picked up something like £650 in prize money from her "Miss Liverpool" success, her win at Southport and her appearance as £100 finalist in the national Hoilday Princess affair in London last year.  For some time she has been escorted around and about by Jimmy Harris, and rumours of a wedding ahead have been flying for months.  But until Roberta showed me the engagement ring nobody outside their intimate circle of family and closest friends knew that the rumours had finally become fact.  Jimmy Harris was born in Birkenhead and joined Everton as an amateur.  He signed as a professional in 1951 and was transferred to Birmingham a few months ago at a fee of around £20,000.  He is about eight years older than Roberta.  His home is still in Birkenhead.