TEAM ARRANGEMENTS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 01 April 1905
Everton Reserve v Nelson
Lancashire Combination match, at Goodison Park; 3.30
Everton.- A.N. Other, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Chadwick, Booth, and Hanlin, half-backs; Rankin, McLoughlin, Thorburn, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON v  NELSON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 01 April 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV. A
At Goodison Park, this afternoon. The Blues led off, and the visitors immediately set up a persistent attack on the home citadel, which the Everton forwards vainly tried to relieve. At length Everton moved along in good order, and Rankin put in a good centre which McLoughlin sent behind. Some clever work by the Nelson forwards was counter-balanced by effective tackling on the part of Wildman and McCartney; while Holmes at the other end very neatly dispossessed Rankin. From a free kick near the Everton goal the visitors had a splendid opportunity of opening the account and although they rather seriously troubled the home defence, the visitors were eventually forced to beat a retreat. Thorburn made a wretched attempt to find the net when favourably placed; while a moment later Booth put in a rasping shot which just topped the crossbar. At the other end Monks and Kelly with a beauty, which the home custodian tipped over the bar. Booth passed cleverly to Rankin, and the latter after safely beating Morton gave to McLoughlin, who mulled a splendid opening. Rankin was again prominent with an accurate centre, and McLoughlin tipped the leather to Caldwell, who failed miserably to open the score when the merest touch must easily have defeated the Nelson keeper. So far the game had been very evenly contested, both sides putting in good work. Rankin’s centres had been the most prominent feature of the game, but his colleagues had failed to profit from them through bad judgement. Monks was only inches out of his reckoning with a good attempt, and then the Nelson defence easily beat the home forwards. After midfield play the visitors forced matters on the right, and Entwistle sent in a prefect centre, which Monks got his head to, the ball striking the crossbar. Savage, returned it, Kelly fisting clear, thus putting an end to an extremely dangerous movement. The Blues next attacked in tenacious fashion, only to find the Nelson defence impregnable.
Half-time; Everton nil, Nelson nil.
After the interval Dilly scored twice for Everton and Monks added a goal for Nelson.
Final.- Everton Res 2, Nelson 1.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 NELSON 1
April 3, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 29)
Everton at Goodison-Park on Saturday managed to avenge their defeat of the previous week at Nelson, the East Lancashire team succumbing by 2 goals to 1. As this is Everton first Combination victory since January 7, the points will doubtless be appreciated. It must be remembered, however, that the team has not been at full strength for some weeks owing to several of the players being kept in reserve for the cup ties, and it is to be hoped that the position of the club in the table will be rapidly improved. The inclusion of Tom Booth strengthened the side, and it is pleasing to note that he is sound and well again. Everton also had a new goalkeeper in kelly, and beyond being a bit risky in his methods he kept a good goal. There was nothing does in the first half, although Monks, for Nelson, once headed against the bar, but on resuming Dilly put on a couple of goals for the Blues, Monks responding with a point for Nelson. Thornburn was again in poor form, and missed some easy chances, Rankin, McLoughlin, and Dilly, being the best forwards. Booth did splendidly at centre-half, while the backs were sound. Nelson did not give a bad display. Morris being a conspicuous worker throughout. Everton: - Kelly. Goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Chadwick, Booth (captain), and Hanlin, half-backs Rankin, McLoughlin Thornburn, Caldwell and Dilly forwards.
Note . After their hard work in the cup-ties, Everton players enjoyed a rest last Saturday, a friendly fixture, which had been arranged at Belfast having been cancelled.

CAP FOR HARDMAN
APRIL 3, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
The 34 th International Association match between England and Scotland at the Crystal Palace ground, London on Saturday, a crowd of 50,000 strong. England winning by one goal to nil.

INTERNATIONAL MATCH
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 03 April 1905
ENGLAND v  SCOTLAND
VICTORY FOR ENGLAND
The thirty fourth match between representatives Association players of England and Scotland was decided on Saturday at the Crystal Palace, London, in the presence of a vast assembly. New stands have been erected, the slopes have been terraced, and the accommodation is altogether superior to anything which had been seen before at the Palace. No doubt the company have taken this important step owing to the fact that they have entered into an agreement with the Football Association to play the great matches here during the next five years. The teams, as originally selected, took the field under the control of Mr. W. Nunnerley, the secretary of the Welsh Association, who acted as referee;-
England.- Linacre (Notts Forest), goal; Spencer (Aston Villa)(captain) and H. Smith (Reading), backs; Ruddlesdin (Sheffield Wednesday), Forrests (Manchester United), and Leake (Aston Villa), half-backs; Sharp (Everton), Bloomer (Derby County), V.J. Woodward (Tottenham Hotspur), Bache (Aston Villa), and Bridgett (Sunderland), forwards. Reserves; S.S. Harris (Corinthians) and Veitch (Newcastle United).
Scotland.- Lyall (Sheffield Wednesday), goal; McCombie (Newcastle United), and Watson (Sunderland), backs; Aitken (Newcastle United), Thomson (Heart of Midlothian), and McWilliam (Newcastle United), half-backs; Walker (R.) (Heart of Midlothian), Howie (Newcastle United), Young (Everton), Somers (Celtic), and Wilson (captain)(Heart of Midlothian), forwards.
The Scotchmen wore the colours of Lord Rosebery. Spencer beat Wilson in the toss, and England played with a slight wind behind them. Young kicked off, and the left wing, Wilson and Somers dashed down the field at a tremendous rate, but they merely forced the ball wide of goal. Bache and Bridgett retaliated but when the former centred Thomspon had no difficulty in clearing. Young seemed partial to feeding Wilson, who drew Linacre out of his goal by an accurate centre. England failed to make any impression during the first ten minutes owing to the keenness of the Scottish half backs, among whom Aitken was particularly prominent. At length Sharp, Bloomer, and Woodward made a raid, and when McCombie went across and missed the ball altogether, there seemed possibilities, but Lyall dispelled the English hopes. England rallied and Sharp dropped the ball into the goalmouth. Lyall so misjudged the flight of the ball that at the last second he could only pull it down with his left hand, but this attack only ended in a corner, which Bridgett placed behind. Still pressure was being exercised on Scotland, and Lyall had to fist out from Roberts
And Bridgett. The Scotchmen had their full share of the attack, but when half time arrived no goals had been scored. On continuing, some play between Young and Wilson placed the Evertonian in an advantageous place for shooting, but the ball cannoned off. Following a throw-in, Howie dribbled for goal, but he could never centre, and a harmless corner off Herbert Smith was the only encouragement to Scotland. Some fine ground passing between Young and Wilson was ended by Spencer giving a corner, which was so splendidly placed that Linacre, reaching over the heads of players, saved with difficulty. Thus in the first five minutes of the second half Scotland took three corners. The English team were now making greater efforts to keep the ball on the turf. All the same, they could not break away. Howie, Spencer and Bache were compelled to concede more corner kicks. The last one was so artistically placed by Walker that Linacre only just scooped the ball off the bar. The Scotchmen again bore down on the goal, and George Wilson netted, but Young had been given off side. Woodward led another raid. Some fine play between Woodward, Bloomer, and Bache ended in Bloomer putting into the net, but Mr. Nunnerly disallowed the goal, presumably because Bache had interfered with the goalkeeper in clearing the first shot. England made a very vigorous appeal, but Mr. Nunnerly was firm. However, the Saxons were destined to have some consolation, for Bloomer centred right off the touch line. Bache, standing some thirty-five yards away from the goal, trapped the ball and made a surprise shot that struck the post, and went into the net. England scoring after thirty minutes’ play. The Scots worked desperately hard to retrieve themselves, but met their match, and Bloomer was cheered for even his defensive play. Young at length got the ball within the shooting zone, but he had to turn round, and in his haste lifted over the bar.
Result;- England 1 goal, Scotland nil.

EVERTON GOALKEEPER AND PATRICK
Dundee Evening Post - Tuesday 04 April 1905
L.R. Roose of Everton confirms the statement published here last week that he will play for Patrick Thistle in the Glasgow Charity ties. The Welsh goalkeeper joined a section of the Scottish contingents in London on Saturday night, and acted as chaperon to the innocents.

EVERTON TEAM SELECTED
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 04 April 1905
By Bee
To-morrow evening Woolwich Arsenal visit Goodison Park, and the kick-off is fixed for 5.15. as stated in yesterday’s column, James Jackson is leaving the Arsenal at the end of this season, so a notice of his career will be interesting.
Everton have chosen the following team;-
Roose; W. Balmer, and Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman. I believe this is the first visit of the Gunners to Liverpool.
In previous meeting this season, at Plumstead Everton had practically gained a fine victory by 3 goals to 1 when a real November fog put an end to the contest. With Newcastle losing to Blackburn on Saturday, Everton have an excellent chance of keeping their heads above the other League clubs, and tomorrow’s match is consequently fraught with keen interest.
At the semi-final between Everton and Aston Villa at Stoke on Saturday week, a visitor from Tunstall was robbed of all his money to keys. Last week he received the keys back with the following note;
“With your Birmingham pal’s compliment. Finding the keys are useless,  return them; much obliged for the cash.” The keys were sent to the gentleman’s private address which the pickpocket ascertained from the name-plate attached.
Backpage
EVERTON v  WOOLWICH
A change in the Everton team has become necessary. Since the first selection of the players given on Page 4, it has become known that Sharp’s injury to the shoulder and arm, sustained while playing for England v Scotland at the Crystal Palace, will keep him out of the team. Rankin will take his place of the cricketer footballer, who has one arm in a sling.

FOOTBALL ITEM
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 05 April 1905
As Sharp had his arm in a sling through a collision while playing for England on Saturday the Everton team v Woolwich to-night will be; Roose; W. Balmer, and Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman. In the previous meeting this season, at Plumstead Everton had practically gained a fine victory by 3 goals to 1 when a real November fog put an end to the contest. With Newcastle losing to Blackburn on Saturday, Everton have an excellent chance of keeping their heads above the other League clubs.

EVERTON v  WOOLWICH
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 05 April 1905
The visit of the Arsenal to Liverpool this afternoon was the result of the postponement of the March 25 fixture, when Everton, instead of entertaining the Gunners journeyed to Stoke, for the English Cup game with the Villa. The Blues paid the Londoners a visit on November 26, on which occasion the demon fog robbed them of an apparently certain victory, as they were 3 goals to 1 when the referee summarily terminated the proceedings. On this form, to-day’s game seemed more then likely to provide the Blues with a couple more points, and thereby consolidate their championship prospects which have brightened considerably since Saturday, with Newcastle biting the dust
And Manchester scoring a single. The Evertonians had to turn out minus Sharp, who was rendered hors de combat in Saturday’s international. His place was filled this evening by the capable understudy, Rankin.

EVERTON 1 WOOLWICH ARSENAL 0
April 6, 1905, The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
The visit of the Arsenal to Liverpool yesterday was the result of the postponement of the March 25 fixture, when Everton, instead of entertaining the Gunners journeyed to Stoke for the English Cup game with the Villa. The Blues paid the Londoners a visit on November 26, on which occasion fog robbed them of an apparently certain victory, as they were 3 goals to 1 when the referee terminated the proceedings. On this form, yesterday's game seemed more than likely to provide the Blues with a couple more points, and thereby consolidate their championship prospects. Such proved to be the case, for the game ended in a victory for Everton by 1 goal to nil. The Evertonians had to turn out minus Sharp, who was rendered hors de combat in Saturday's, international. His capable understudy, Rankin, Balmer won the toss, and the Arsenal started against a fitful and troublesome breeze, filled his place. Everton at once got on the right, but Jackson checked, and the visitors made rather pretty play, but Taylor broke up the movement. Rankin and McDermott returned to the attack, but Jackson was again too smart for the right wing pair, and after a short spell of midfield work the Arsenal made ground on the right, and after Taylor and Crelly had both been beaten Roose was forced to run out in order to clear from Briercliffe. The first quarter of an hour play yielded nothing of special note for although both sets of forwards attacked in turn neither showed dangerous combination, and the backs were invariably allowed to clear. The Woolwich men forced a corner off Balmer, but nothing came to this, and then a promising breakaway by the home front line was spoiled through the referee pulling Young up on the ground of being offside. Woolwich again took up the attack first on the left when Balmer cleared and then on the right when Briercliffe beat Abbott and shot, but the ball went outside. At this point the London team were having much the best of the argument, but their tactics in front of goal were woefully lacking in finish and dash and though Balmer was once of twice in difficulties he managed to scrape through. A spurt on the part of the Everton forwards put some life into the game for a few moments, but the Woolwich backs played capitally, and several dangerous rushes were safely dealt with. Gradually, however, the Everton forwards began to wear their opponents down, and an exceedingly clever bit of footwork terminated in Young shooting into Ashcroft's arms. A momentary breakaway by the visitors right gave Briercliffe a fine opportunity of scoring, but he mulled it, and for some time after this play ruled all in favour of Everton. Hardman running down screwed in nicely, but Settle shot high over the bar, and a moment later the same player headed a pass by Rankin on the wrong side of the crossbar. At this period the Evertonians were decidedly the cleverer lot, and they kept the Woolwich men continuously on the defence. Their shooting, however, lacked judgement, and twice Young shot wide. A spurt on the part of the Arsenal right ended in the ball, being swung across to Templeton with the result, that the Scottish international put in a glorious shot which scraped the outside of the upright. This was followed by a perfectly combined movement on the part of the Arsenal forwards and Ducat nipping between the backs looked almost certain of scoring, when Roose ran out and punted clear. A moment later the visitors again pressed in a business like way, and Roose in clearing was hurt of the knee, but he speedily recovered. Further pressure by Everton was discounted in their weakness in finishing, and just before the interval the visitors almost scored, through Coleman, who ran right down the wing, and finished with a low shot, which the home custodian just cleared Everton exerted renewed pressure, and after McDermott had hit the side of the net, Young shot into Ashcroft's hands from an offside position. A few seconds later the Evertonians returned to the attack, and Young working through, scored a capital goal. Half-time Everton 1 goal, Woolwich Arsenal nil.
In the second half the Evertonians at once went away at a great pace, and two unsuccessful corners were forced in rapid succession. These were followed by a long shot from Balmer, which heartly beat Ashcroft, and a run down by Settle and McDermott, which was spoiled by Young's supinesness. For quite a long spell the home players monopolised the play and both Settle and Rankin missed the fine chances, while on the occasion Young apparently had an open goal before him, when he shot outside. At another time he just missed converting a short pass from Settle into a second goal. A moment or two later Abbott from long range, put in a glorious fast shot, which Ashcroft tipped over the bar. Roose meanwhile was comparatively idol, but when the Arsenal did at length make ground he saved a shot from Scatterthwaite with rare cleverness. Then on another occasion tried a pop at goal at goal, but the leather went over and the next item of interest was a fine low shot by Rankin which brought Ashcroft to his knees. The closing stages of the game were fought with desperate earnestness and Everton more than once experienced a hard time in not piercing the Woolwich defence. The Arsenal on the other hand showed rare dash and determination and they also might easily have equalising through the instrumentality of Ducat and Templeton. The defence on both sides was sound, and an interesting game ended in favour of the home side, by one goal to nil. Everton: - Roose goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Wollwich Arsenal: - Ashcroft, goal, Cross, and Jackson, backs, Dick, Birden, and McKachrane half-backs, Briercliffe, Coleman, Ducat, Scarrethwaite, and Templeton forwards. Referee .Armitt.

EVERTON WIN
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 06 April 1905
By Bee
Everton greatly improved their chances of becoming League champions by beating Woolwich Arsenal at Goodison Park yesterday by 1 goal to nil. Balmer and his men had to work extremely hard for the two points. They did not have the advantage of the wind in first half, but play was fairly even. After both custodians made smart clearances, Ashcroft, just before the interval, was beaten by a fine shot from Young.
In no way contented with their lead, Everton asserted their superiority at the beginning of the second half; but though keeping the ball in close proximity to Ashcroft, they were unable to score. After the Arsenal goal had several narrow escapes, Ashcroft smartly cleared a terrific drive from Abbott. In time the Arsenal made headway, but after Roose had neatly dealt with a shot from Ducat Everton returned to the attack, and did everything but score.
The league toppers are as follow;-
Everton played 29, Won 19, Lost 6, Draw 4, For 56, Against 30 Points 42
Newcastle United P29, W19, L8, D2, For 56, Against 27, Points 40
Manchester City P29, Won 17, Lost 7, Drawn 6, For 57, Against 33, Points 39
We had anticipated a weak Arsenal forward line, having heard so much complaint about the mildness of their attacks. They played a surprisingly crisp game, and after many breakaways would not trouble Roose. Templeton the brilliant “moody” player, gave Makepeace no rest, and generally came out on top. It is a treat to notice him careering off in so unconcerned a manner, yet so speedily. He is all legs. Satterthwaite must find him an awkward customer to get along with. The other prominent men for the visitors were Ashcroft and Jackson, whose defence was of the utmost possible value. The Gunners have a force in their defence, Young was about yards offside when he scored with a ground shot. Settle pushed the ball forward and Young with dash and without hesitation let fly. A moment previously he had been pulled up after despatching a very fine shot, which was only beaten during the evening by the great one by Abbott which Ashcroft hit out at the must have hurt his hand in doing so. It was a stringer. Settle missed one right under the bar, and a Hardman cross was mulled by all the other forwards. The marksmanship was poor, and I say this remembering that the wind was awkward to cope with. A complete failure was the home right wing. Young was useful because he shot often, and Settle opened the way for Hardman, who was the terrier of the team, as usual. Abbott held up Briercliffe and his partner, John Taylor, in defence, was capable, in placing to his forwards unreliable, and Crelly was easily the better back. Balmer on one occasion essayed to dribble to Templeton when two yards from Roose. That sort of play makes one tremble, otherwise the captain kicked powerfully and broke up many attacks. Some of the men looked stale, and to poor a second half was really pardonable in a sense.

EVERTON MUST WIN TO-MORROW TO GAIN HIGH HONOURS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 07 April 1905
By Bee
There are few First Division football matches remaining now, but the interest, nevertheless is at a very high point. Having failed by a short head in the Football Association Cup, we, locally, turn are eyes on Everton to see if they can take the spoils of the League Championship. They have a clear lead of Newcastle United with 42 points, and Manchester City are third with 39 notches. Further than these three it is needless, apparently, to look, for Sheffield United have played 31 matches, and Small heath and the Villa, who follow in order seem unlikely to overhaul any but United of Sheffield. The games the three leaders have to play to complete their portion fo the tournament are as follow;-
Everton
Home;- Small Heath
Away.- Stoke, Woolwich Arsenal, Manchester City, Nottingham Forest
Newcastle United
Home;- Nottingham Forest, Stoke, Sunderland
Away -Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday
Manchester City
Home;-Everton, Sheffield Wednesday, Woolwich Arsenal
Away;- Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers
These engagement will possibly keep the issue open until the last match of the season, and, at any rate, the competition should be most keenly fought. Everton have a bunch of engagements away, and three are due to be rubbed off the slate within four days-a stiff task. Newcastle have the Palace excitement to go through as well as two Northern “Derby Days” -they meet their nearest neighbours, and these ties are, generally speaking of course anybody’s games. Then Manchester City have the worst-looking programme. It is going to be a very near thing whichever way it goes, and we hope it will go Everton way, be the margin however small.
The first step the men have to mount is at Stoke, where they have already appeared this year in the Cup fare, beating the Potters by four clear goals. They then played their best game of the season, and a slender semblance of that form must lead to a couple of points. The team which overcame Woolwich has been chosen again, as Sharp still has his arm strung up. One thing is pretty certain-Everton must win this game if they are to go strongly for highest position. A draw will not suffice; a win outright will satisfy. As I suggested with regard to the Bolton-Liverpool match when weighing up chances, a draw will probably result; but the wish is father of the thought, and I give Everton to win.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 08 April 1905
Everton v Stoke
League match, at Stoke; Lime-street 12; Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Ashton Town
Lancashire Combination match ay Goodison; 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Booth, and Chadwick, half-backs; Roberts, Caldwell, Dilly, McLoughlin, and Yerdel, forwards.

STOKE v  EVERTON
Staffordshire Sentinel - Saturday 08 April 1905
PLUCKY DISPLAY BY STOKE
POTTERS EQUALIS TWO MINUTES FROM FINISH
A HARD-EARNED POINT
STOKE 2 EVERTON 2
It was generally recognised that Stoke had one of the stiffest tasks this afternoon that they will be called upon to perform before the end of the season arrives. The points available were as valuable to Everton in their struggle to head the League table as they were for Stoke to Successfully out adrift from the last position but one in the table. With both side, so bent upon improving their position it was expected that a keen struggle would be seen on the Victoria grounds. Everton, it was anticipated, would draw a big crowd in view of the fact that the Toffee team had been fancied a good deal locally for the Cup final, and their defeat at the hands of Aston Villa in the re-played semi-final was a disappointment to many football enthusiastic in this neighbourhood. Away from home Everton have performed well during the present season. They have lost only five matches on foreign' ground, these being the games with Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, Middlesbrough, Newcastle United, and Sheffield United. Their most striking performances have been their victory at Roker Park and the draw which they effected with Sheffield Wednesday at Owlerton, when they scored five goals in the first half of the game. Last season Stoke played Everton a fine game at Goodison Park, and the Potters won by a single goal. Early in the present season the Goodison Park brigade beat Stoke by 4—1.  Last season at Stoke Everton won by 3-2. The ground was in fair condition, though apparently slightly on the soft side. The Stoke directors placed in the field the same team which made such a successful show against the Wolves last week. Thu Meredith and Burgess again constituted the back division, Sturgess retained his position at left half, and Hesham was at outside right. The Everton team had undergone three alterations. Roose, who had sacrificed an international cap against Ireland in order to take part in to-day's match was not, after all, included in the Everton team. He was present on the ground as a spectator, but Scott was selected to guard the Everton net. Crelly was away injured, and his place at left back was taken by R. Balmer. The Everton outside right—Sharp—was away with an injured shoulder, and this vacancy was filled by Rankin.- Teams:— Stoke;- Whitley, goal; Meredith right back, Burgess, left back;  Baddley, right half-back, Holford (captain) , centre half back, Sturgess left half back; Hesham, outside right, Rouse, inside right, Hall, centre, Holdcroft, inside left, Fielding, outside left.
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer (captain), right back, R. Balmer, left back; Makepeace right, half back, Taylor, centre half-back, Abbott, left half-back; Rankin, Outside right, McDermott, inside right, Young, Centre, Settle, Inside left, H.P. Hardman, Outside left.. Mr. F. Kirkham was the referee.
Prior to the kick-off the crowd was entertained by the four mile handicap of the North Staffordshire Harriers. The gate numbered about 4,000.
THE GAME
Holford won the toss and choose to play with a bright sun facing hint and his colleagues. In the first minute after a spasmodic rush by Rankin, Holford sent along to Rouse. The latter rounded the left back and centred. Holdcroft ran into the ball and robbed Fielding of a promising chance of scoring. Abbott then got Hardman away, and Mr. Kirkham had but little justification for penalising Baddeley for what was a fair charge on Hardman. The charged player took the free kick but placed it behind. From the goal kick Stoke pressed warmly. Hall and Rouse, with capital assistance from Holford and Sturgess, opened out the game and passed and re-passed very cleverly. The Balmer, however, were not to be caught napping, although the Everton halves were not too safe. Burgess placed the ball well into goal on one occasion and Makepeace returned it briskly to Rankin, who was neatly spoiled by Holford. The Stoke left wing looked like getting away well, but Hall was off-side when receiving a pass from Fielding, which was Intended for Holdcroft. After Rankin had been similarly pulled up for being off-side, Holdcroft got away splendidly, and fired a grand shot which Scott fielded well, but he only got it away in time to escape Hesham.  The Stoke right-winger made A Plucky Attempt in the next minute, and he sent in a good centre which R. Balmer returned. Baddeley then shot, and Balmer once more landed the ball down the field. Holford played Young and Settle capitally, and prevented many efforts, of these two from materialising. Burgess, too was playing a good defensive game, and volleyed away a good centre by Rankin. The Everton attack eventually warmed to their work. Hardman was prominent by reason of a dashing run, and he beat Baddeley Just on the goal line and centred. McDermott shot hard, but Burgess returned the ball down to Taylor, who had a shot which Whitley saved well. After Rouse, during a short visit to the other end, had shot over, the Toffemen's right bore down on the Stoke defence. Holford put out his foot before McDermott, who stumbled, but recovered. A penalty was immediately ordered, and Makepeace took it and shot the ball between Whitley's legs and into the net. This came after 24 minutes' play, and was followed by further pressure by the Evertonians, and the home defence appeared to be shaken slightly, both backs having occasionally, to resort to haphazard relief kicking to clear. Mr. Kirkham made a palpable mistake when be penalised Stoke for a deliberate handling of the ball by Taylor. In the next minute R. Balmer fouled Rouse, and this was punished by a free kick, which proved abortive.  Another remarkable decision by Mr. Kirkham was the award of a free kick by Everton when R. Balmer had again committed a penalty foul upon Rouse. This roused the crowd to a feeling of irritation, and The Spectators Waxed Sarcastic at the expense of the referee. Everton were working very earnestly, but they were being checked fairly well by the Stoke defence. Many offences committed by the Lancashire men went unpunished or they would have made even less progress. One free kick was awarded to Stoke, and this, taken by Sturgess, was placed beyond the Everton goal line. The men in blue were very fortunate in the response which was given to every appeal they made for fouls, and one could not be surprised that the Stoke team began to show signs of discouragement although they had earned for themselves a good share of the play.
A capital effort was made by Holford who dropped the ball on the top of the net, but the Stoke captain made but a sorry show with a second opportunity when he flung the ball behind the goal. Following a throw-in not far from the Everton goal. Hall had a shot which taxed Scott, and after the custodian had fisted away Burgess sent in another which W. Balmer returned. Rouse and Hall were knocked about by the visiting halves and hustled off the ball by the readiest means that offered. The whistle then blew for the interval. Half-time:— EVERTON 1: STOKE. 0.
The Potters had been exceedingly unfortunate, and although they had had the bulk of the play they had nothing to show for it. Mr. Kirkham had given some cause for the frequent and strong expressions of disapproval which greeted many of his decisions, although the Stoke crowd were loath to lose the good opinion of him which they had hitherto entertained. A matter evoking genera! comment was the course taken by Holford in choosing to play facing the sun. The bright light seemed to affect to a considerable degree the accuracy of the home backs. Taken on the whole Stoke had been not inferior to Everton. Early in the second half came a spirited attack by the Stoke right wing. Running down to the corner flag Hesham put in a narrow centre which R. Balmer returned. Baddeley got possession and forced the left back to again kick away. Then the Toffees left got loose and Settle, when well placed, shot over the Stoke goal. A brilliant attempt was made by Rankin who, circling round Burgles, gave Whitley a very awkward curling shot, which was stopped very smartly. The Stoke left then forced the game, and after a good run down his wing Fielding put in a grand centre which Scott saved, and was hurt in so doing. The game was confined to the Everton half for a time, but eventually Makepeace worked his way out and transferred the ball to Hardman, who was lying out in the field practically uncovered. Hardman received cleverly, and outpacing Meredith, he ran on for goal, and with a shot which beat Whitley' all the way. Scored the Lancashire Team's Second Goal. The game now began to run even more in Everton's favour, although Hall and Rouse made a bustling attempt to pierce a way past Taylor and Balmer. The right back effected one or two capital recoveries. Very different was the work of the home backs. Meredith's kicking was often short, and he repeatedly put the ball to an Everton man. Both he and Burgess, too, played far too close on their own goal. There was little cohesion between the home forwards, and Rouse, who had been hurt twice, was much below par. The Stoke attackers had a disagreeable way of tumbling down on receiving the ball, and at this stage of the game the Evertonians were superior everywhere.  When the Potters returned to the attack Hesham played smartly on the right wing, and when the ball struck Taylor on the forearm it looked auspiciously like a penalty, but the whistle was not blown. The Potters attacked, although somewhat lazily, and Hall and Rouse ran down side by side in a very determined fashion. Balmer conceded a corner and this, placed well by Hesham, was kicked on towards the goal by Baddeley and returned. Hesham was responsible for a very clever attempt under difficulties soon after this, and his shot was only a foot or so wide. Still pegging away at the Everton defence the home forwards improved slightly, and Holdcroft had hard lines with a beauty. Holdcroft again had a run through and banged in a grand shot, which Scott did well to tip over the bar. This was quite the best shot which had been put in by a Stoke forward all afternoon, and indeed Holdcroft was the most useful forward the Potters had on the play. A Strong Protest was made by the spectators when Mr. Kirkham declined to give Young off side, but this time the decision was correct, the ball having grazed Burgess's leg before passing to Young. Fielding performed a bright little run on his own, and despite the dirty tactics of Balmer he succeeded in getting in a lovely centre which Scott saved marvellously. The home team played with greater persistence and forced three corners in succession. Brilliant goalkeeping by Scott alone saved the Toffees, and the Irishman showed that he is, too, a custodian of International calibre. Still Stoke pressed, and at last Holdcroft sent along a shot which Scott caught. The keeper was, however, overbalanced by the force of the shot, for he swung backward for half a yard under the bar. The referee hesitated and amid a great outcry by the crowd, consulted one of the linesmen. As a result of this he pointed to the centre and awarded a goal. Then the game became exciting.  Stoke pressed hotly for the other goal which should bring with it a point. They relied, however, upon individual effort rather than collective work. They played with great pluck, and Holford forced another corner, from which the ball dropped from the bar on R. Balmer's head and cannoned into the goal. It was no more than Stoke deserved. Immediately the Everton forwards rushed in a body to the Stoke goal, but although they tried many stray shots they could not break through. Stoke thus pulled the game out of the fire in the last two minutes, and they thoroughly earned their point.
NOTES AND COMMENTS.
Stoke faced the sun at the start, but had advantage of what little wind there was. Their opening movement woe most business-like, and had Holdcroft only left Rouse's centre to Fielding, Stoke would, in all probability, have been " one up " in the first minute. As it wee the ball struck Holdcroft's knee and bounced out. Everton did not find their feet in their first raid, and Sturges, earned frequent plaudits for his share in rendering their work ineffective.  When the left went down Hardman was quite fairly shouldered down by Baddeley, but a free kick was given.  Scott next had a handful from Holdcroft, and Everton were hard pressed for a period, but the attacks did not fructify. Than it seemed Stoke had committed a bad error of judgment in playing with the sun in their eyes. For a period Everton did pretty well what they liked, while the Stoke defence was kept on the trot repelling shot after shot. The glare of the sun prevented Stoke repulsing with anything like judgment, consequently the ball went oftener to an opponent than to a friend. Whitley saved from McDermott and Taylor, while a shot from Hardman flashed across the goal. The siege was eventually temporarily raised, but in came McDermott again, and Holford wantonly fouled the man and Makepeace made the penalty kick a goal. This was anything but a tonic to Stoke, and to improve matters Mr. Kirkham's decisions became somewhat erratic. A Stoke man would be fouled and the free kick awarded to Everton!  And this occurred not once but three times!  These peculiar rulings naturally incensed the crowd, and irritated the players. Once Rouse was fouled in the penalty area. But R. Balmer, the offender, had a free kick for Rouse's pains. W. Balmer cleared in masterly fashion time after time, and neither Fielding nor Holdcroft did much against him. At length Scott, after a sustained attack, saved from Hall, and Burgess tried in vain to convert.  As the interval drew near Stoke tried their utmost to equalise, but Baddeley was astray with his shot and Holford kicked over the bar. Early in the second halt Hesham centred grandly from a difficult position, and Scott saved from Baddeley. Then Everton came down. Hardman crossed, but Settle shot over. Then Rankin made a splendid sprint and shot, which Whitley cleared. Stoke next made a determined onslaught, and Scott was hurt in saving Fielding's shot. Directly Everton broke away, and Hardman, taking a wide cross from Makepeace, run on, finishing up with a grand shot which reached the net. It seemed that Whitley must have been unsighted in some way. Stoke had a further spell on the offensive, but Rouse was hurt. After a period of poor play Stoke attacked, and forced a corner, but Sturgess skied the ball. A second corner followed, but R. Balmer relieved.  In a later attack Hesham had distinctly hard lines in being bulged just when his shot seemed likely to take it but missed by inches. By Far Stoke’s best chance
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EVERTON v STOKE
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 08 April 1905
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
EVERTON LEAD AT HALF-TIME
Everton’s engagement at Stoke this afternoon was fraught with exceptional interest. In the first place, the Goodison Park brigade had serious designs on secreting the League championship honours, and they therefore desired a couple of points; in the second place, the Stoke Club, as usual, was struggling to keep out of the second division, and their incentive to win was, therefore, equally as great as that of their opponents, and there was the additional influence at work in the remembrance that it was Everton that knocked the Potters out of the English Cup competition. Under these circumstances the meeting was anticipated with the liveliest interest in the Staffordshire town, and favoured by beautiful springlike weather the encounter attracted a great crowd to the Victoria Ground. The Everton team left Liverpool at twelve o’clock, and reached Stoke shortly after two. It was hoped that Roose would be able to appear for Everton, but the injury to his leg which he received on Wednesday when playing against Arsenal precluded this, and his place was taken by Scott. Crelly also was an absentee, and his place was filled by Robert Balmer. These changes were made at the last moment, and they rather altered the complexion of the chances of the visitors. The Stoke team were at full strength, and there were 6,000 people present when the men lined out as follows;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer (captain) and R. Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Stoke.- Whitley, goal; Meredith and Burgess, backs; Baddeley, Holford, and Sturgess, half-backs; Hesham, Rouse, Hall, Holdcroft, and Fielding, forwards.
Referee- Mr. F. Kirkham.
It will be noticed that Sharp was still an absentee, owing to his injured shoulder, and the reason for Crelly’s absence was that he injured his knee in getting out of the train. Everton won the toss, and they were thus favoured by the sun and a slight breeze. Hall kicked off, and Stoke were first in evidence, Rouse ran down the wing brilliantly, but Holdcroft, after taking the pass, shot on the wrong side of the upright. Stoke were at once were nippy on the ball, their forwards calling forth the very best efforts of the home backs. A timely kick by W. Balmer gave relief, and then after some tricky work by the Everton inside men. Hardman was getting away when he was pulled up by Meredith. A free kick followed, but it was badly utilised and the home forwards again pressed. Holford particularly distinguishing himself. The left wing were next on the aggressive and after Balmer had put in a miskick, Scott saved cleverly from Fielding. The Potters again returned to the attack and forced a corner, following which the Everton goal was hotly assailed, W. Balmer effecting a timely clearance by his judicious kicking. So far the game was going all in favour of Stoke, and the visitors did not seem to be able to get going. A free kick, however, enabled them to make ground, but Rankin lost possession, and the Potters thanks to really admirable combination, were soon troubling the Everton defence again. Their half back and forward play was splendid, and a fine movement ended in Holdcroft shooting in. Scott in clearing, fell on his knees, and he was fortunate in being able to throw the ball away.
Note
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EVERTON v  ASHTON TOWN
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 08 April 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV. A
There was a fairly good attendance at Goodison Park this afternoon, when Ashton Town opposed the home reserve forces. The teams were;-
Everton Reserve.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Booth, and Chadwick, half-backs; Roberts, Caldwell, Dilly, McLoughlin, and Yerdall.
Ashton.- Topping; Leigh and Knowles; Savage, Mees, and Cara; McKenna, R. Banks, Dyer, J. Banks, and Thomas.
Ashton won the toss, and Dilly started for Everton, who faced the sun. the Blues were aggressive at the outset, and Topping saved well from Dilly and Roberts. Breaking away, Ashton were awarded a free kick in a good position, but Mees made poor use of it. Another attack by Everton ended in Dilly heading through but he was palpably offside, and the point was promptly disallowed. Ashton occasionally showed glimpses of very fair form, and frequently got within shooting range. R. Banks caused Kitchen to handle, while a few minutes later Thomson, from the extreme left, flashed in a beauty which just missed its intended billet. After this Everton woke up and troubled the Ashton defence, Topping saving a good one from McLoughlin. Even play ensued for some few minutes during which the visitors almost scored from a corner. After twenty five minutes’ rather tame work, McLoughlin was rushed off the ball within the penalty area, and from the penalty Dilly landed a goal. Play progressed evenly, first the Blues and then the visitors monopolising the attack, though neither infused much vigour into their work. Topping and Kitchen both had to handle, through neither was seriously tested. McLoughlin once had the easiest possible chance of scoring, but unwisely passed the ball to Roberts, who was in a much worse position, and who shot wide. Nothing more of moment occurred before the interval.
Half-time Everton Reserve 1 goal, Ashton Town nil.
Final; Everton Res 2 Ashton Town nil

A FIGHTING FINISH AT STOKE
Athletic News - Monday 10 April 1905
By Onward
Both Everton and Stoke had much at stake in Saturday’s meeting at the Victoria ground, Stoke, and anticipations of an exciting struggle were realized, although the footwork shown by both sides was not altogether of high class.  The Stoke directors wisely decided not to make any change in the team which brought away a brace of points from the Molineux grounds on the previous Saturday, but there were several new faces on the Everton side.  L.R. Roose, who had missed the international at Belfast, in order to guard the breach for Everton, was not after all included in the team, although he made the journey from London.  As a matter of fact Roose was hurt in mid-week, and Scott kept goal in his place.  Robert Balmer partnered brother William in the back division, and Rankin deputized for Sharp, whose injury at the Crystal Palace will prevent his further appearance in the football field this season.  The Stoke men were quicker off the mark than their opponents, and during the first quarter of an hour some excellent work by half-backs and forwards was marred by the weakness of the inside men when the critical moment arrived.  They either hesitated and had their shots charged down by the Everton defenders, or, as in the cases of Holdcroft and Rouse, kicked over the bar when well placed.  There was no mistaking the earnestness of the Stoke players, but it struck one that they were over anxious.  Everton in this early period were rarely dangerous, but after twenty-five minutes’ play McDermott was out by himself in a raid, when he was fouled by Holford.  It seemed a near thing weather second success Everton were for some time most dangerous, and their forwards repeatedly had the Stoke defenders in difficulties.  But Burgress and Holford, in the occurrence was inside or outside the penalty area, but Mr. Fred Kirkham, who was well placed, ruled that it was inside the line, and Makepeace, Everton’s crack penalty taker, made no mistake.  It appeared that a similar punishment should have been awarded against Everton when R. Balmer fouled Rouse some minutes later at the other end of the ground, and the crowd voiced its disapproval loudly when the referee gave a free kick to the visitors instead of a “penalty” to Stoke.  But it was clear that Mr. Kirkham must have seen something not apparent to the majority, for, as usual, he was right on the spot, and in an excellent position for seeing.  Stoke hardly deserved to be a goal in arrear when ends were changed, for taking the first “45” as a whole they had made quite as good a show as their opponents.  Scott made a couple of brilliant saves from determined efforts by Fielding and Baddeley early in the second half, and then a further disaster befell Stoke.  Hardman outpaced Meredith, and form fifteen yards’ range flashed in a shot which completely deceived Whitley.  In fact, to the surprise of most people, the Stoke keeper made no attempt to reach the ball.  After this particular, were most resolute, and gradually the Stoke team recovered its balance.  In the last twenty minutes the Stoke players made one of the most determined efforts to retrieve a losing position it has ever been my lot to witness.  With splendid pluck they attacked the Everton goal again and again, and corner after corner was forced.  An enthusiast told me that he made count of 15 corners-kicks taken by Stoke during this half.  Scott kept goal magnificently during this period, and quite one of his best efforts in defence was his saving of a lofty drive by Holdcroft by tipping the ball over the bar.  Ten minutes from the finish Stoke obtained their first goal.  Holdcroft again flashed the ball in at Scott, and this time the Everton keeper was carried over the goal-line by the force of the shot.  The Stoke players made a unanimous and confident appeal, and after consulting one of his linesmen Mr. Kirkham pointed to the centre of the ground.  The remaining minutes of the game were full of excitement, and Holford brought up all his forces in a last desperate onslaught on the Everton goal.  More corners were forced, and from one of these a fierce scrimmage in the Everton goal-mouth ensued, with the result that Robert Balmer headed the ball into his own net two minutes from time.  One more determined rally by Everton with Stoke, this time as successful defenders, and then an exciting game was left drawn at two goals each.  As an exhibition of football the game left something to be desired, but the spectators were more than delighted by the manner in which the Stoke players faced the heavy odds against them in the second half, and by sheer grit retrieved a situation which appeared to be hopelessly lost.  Holford played no inconspicuous part in this successful struggle.  He set his colleagues a fine example of energy and resolution, and to my mind captained his forces with considerable judgement.  Behind him Burgess was almost the Burgess of old, and the wing half-backs, Baddley and Sturgess, did yeoman service, particularly in the last twenty minutes.  The forwards were disappointing in front of goal in the early stages, and afterwards their play was of the scrappy order, but they atoned for many shortcomings by the part they played in the closing stages.  Scott played finely in the Everton goal, and was full of coolness and resource.  The Balmers were good, bad, and indifferent by turn.  They often showed weakness when hard pressed.  The intermediate line was decidedly the best division in the Everton team, and I thought Walter Abbott showed a considerable advance on recent form.  Rankin and Hardman were the hardest workers, as they were the most effective men in the attack.  But Everton will have to play better to secure the championship.  Stoke; Whitley; Meredith, Burgess; Baddelay, Holford, Sturgess; Hesham, Rouse, Hall, Holdscroft, and Fielding.  Everton; Scott; Balmer (W.), Balmer (R.); Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee; F. Kirkham, Preston. 

STOKE CITY 2 EVERTON 2
April 10, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
A CAPITAL FINISH.
Everton on Saturday did not accomplish that which they desired at Stoke. In an English cup tie, as everyone knows, they beat the Potters hip and thigh to the tune of four goals to nil. The League fixture, however, resulted in a division of the points. This is all the more remarkable, in as much as until the last quarter of an hour of the proceedings the Evertonians were regarded as certain victors. They were leading by two goals to nil, and the chances were all in their favour. Then with the desperation of despair the Potters pulled themselves together and made several furious raids on Scott's charge. Once they obtained a goal, which by the way was only awarded by Referee Kirkham after consultation with the linesman, there was no holding them, and after a sequence of Corners R.Balmer was unlucky was unlucky enough to head the ball into his own. Although the Evertonians were naturally disappointed no impartial spectator could begrudge the equalising point. It was the outcome of splendid determination. Indeed the closing stages of the game were as exciting as one could hope to witness.
THE PLAY.
Never at any period was the sustained of play above the average. There was any amount of hard work and vigorous bustling, but of the finer points of the game little was seen. Unquestionably Everton were the clever side. At the same time their forwards had evidently left their shooting boots at home, for Whitley had very few shots of any difficulty to negotiate. During the first half the Evertonians with the sun at their backs, enjoyed the bulk of the play, but they only scored through a penalty kick , which was granted when Rankin was brought down as he was about to shot. Makepeace was the artist, who took the kick, and who succeeded despite the theatrical display of Whitley on the six yards line. The second goal which Everton secured early on in the second portion was the result of a capital individual effort on the part of Hardman, who ran clean through on his own and defeated Whitley with a shot which the custodian never attempt. Whitley came in for some censure by reason of his apparent indifference, but all the same he had never a ghost of a chance of reaching the ball. Then, when the game seemed as good as won, the Stoke players rose to the occasion in grand style. Scott kept out not a few brilliant efforts, and when he was beaten it was questionable if either the referee of the linesman consulted could tell positively whether or not he carried the ball over the line. However the goal was given, and when after repeated attempts the second arrived almost on time Stoke thoroughly deserved the point for which they had worked with such whole heartedness.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS.
It cannot be said that either set of players reached a high standard of excellence. Their form was suggestive of the closing days of the season. At the same time, whatever superiority there was remained with Everton. Still the Evertronians did not impress one as likely candidates for the championship. Having obtained a pronounced lead- scarcely warranted on the play-they ought surely to have been able to make certain of a couple of points. Scott was in no way to blame for Stoke's couple of goals. More than once he saved in masterly fashion. The backs, however, were not at all safe when hard pressed, the younger Balmer figuring with more success than his more famous brother. Makepeace was the best of the halves, with Abbott a good second. Forward the only man to distinguished himself was Hardman. Young was sadly of colour, and though Rankin tried hard, Sharp was sorely missed. Stoke were best represented by Holford, Rouse, and Holdcroft, though the backs, Meredith and Burgess presented a vigorous front to the Everton vanguard. Teams: - Stoke City: - Whitley, goal, Meredith, and Burgess, backs, Baddeley, Holford, and Sturess, half-backs, Heshane, Rouse, Hall, Holdcroft and Fielding forwards. Everton: - Scott, W.Balmer (captain), and R.Balmer, backs, Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott half-backs, Rankin McDermott, Young, Settle and Hardman forwards. Referee Fred Kirkham.

LEAGUE TABLE TOP FIVE
Plyd. W L D F A Pts
1 Everton…………………. 30 19 6 5 58 31 43
2 Newcastle United………..30 20 8 2 61 28 42
3 Manchester City…………30 18 7 5 58 43 41
4 Sheffield United ………...32 19 11 2 63 50 40
5 Small Heath……………..31 17 9 5 53 34 39

EVERTON RESERVES 2 ASTON TOWN 0
April 10, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 30)
The meeting of Everton and Ashton Town at Goodison Park was product of a moderate game, but it served to provide a couple of much needed points to the home side. So far as midfield play went Everton held a decided advantage, but when the forwards got near goal they threw away many chances. Dilly and McLoughlin were the only forward's to do themselves justice, the former playing with great dash as centre forward, and having hard lines with his shooting. He scored the only goal of the first half from a penalty kick, while afterwards a long shot from Roberts turned into the Ashton goal off the post. McCartney, at back gave one of his best displays, while Chadwick was the better of the halves. Yerdall, a new outside left, showed plenty of pluck, but lacked experience. The visitors backs did well after an uncertain start, but asked the ball too often. Mills at centre half got through a great deal of work, while the brothers Banks and Thomas were the best of the forwards, who, but for the weakness of McKenna at outside right, would have given the home defence considerable trouble. McLoughlin was off the field for some time in the second half, and during his absence the Town pressed to some purpose, but the sound defence of McCartney could not be overcome. Everton had the somewhat unusual experience of having to change the Blues jerseys to Black and White stripes at the interval owing to the similarily of the visitors colours. Everton:- Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and Kerr, backs, Hanlin,, Booth (captain), and Chadwick,, half-backs Roberts, Caldwell, Dilly, McLoughlin, and Yerdall, forwards.

CAP FOR ROOSE
April 10, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
The last of the international games played at Belfast on Saturday, when Ireland entertained Wales, the game resulted in a draw of two goals each.

SATURDAY FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 10 April 1905
Everton discounted considerably their chances of obtaining championship honours by failure to obtain the maximum points at Stoke on Saturday. Until about ten minutes from the finish of the game there was every likelihood that the League leaders would gain an easy victory. That they only shared the honours was due to a marvellous recovery on the part of the Potters, who, in the closing attacked with such vigour and determination that no one could begrudge them the point for which they battled so gallantly and which ultimately came their way. This is only just to the Stoke players, not-withstanding the fact that no little doubt exists as to the legitimacy of the first goal which the referee awarded. It is always a moot point whether the referee or the linesmen who are up the field, can decide as to whether a custodian steps back over the line. The goal which Mr. Kirkham awarded was one of this description, which is always more or less unsatisfactory. However, the referee, after consulting one of the linesmen, granted Stoke’s claim. This point infused even more life into the display of the Potters than had previously been exhibited and, although their second goal occurred from an unlucky header by young Balmer, the vigorous tactics of the home side, when the game seemed as good as lost, were such as to merit the Stoke’s partial success. At the outset the Stoke players showed signs of making a bold bid for success, and for some little time the Everton defenders were kept busily employed. Gradually the more finished methods of the Everton forwards asserted themselves, and though the play at no period could be classed as brilliant, there was a keenness apparent that served to keep the spectators interested. It was some time ere the scoring account was opened, this being the outcome of a penalty against Holford, and at the interval the visitors led by a goal. Soon after the resumption the lead was increased as the result of a fine individual effort by Hardman. Whitley making no effort to stem the course of the ball, and for a lengthy period the Potters were all over a beaten side. At times they indulged in flashes which generally savoured of danger, and towards the close they levelled an attack which thoroughly extended the best efforts of Scott and the brothers Balmer. Their persistency was at length rewarded, for the referee ruled that Scott, in attempting to save from Holdcroft’s, had carried the ball over the line; and a couple of minutes from the finish a splendidly directed ball from a corner kick, taken by Fielding, glided from the crossbar to R. Balmer, who, unfortunately, headed into the net. Taking a broad views a division of honours was a fair reflex of the general run of the game. The Everton forwards were not at their best, and the wing men were not sufficiently plied with work from the centre. Sharp’s absence was distinctly missed for Rankin when in possession showed little resource and several fine openings were allowed to go a-begging by faulty returns to the centre. The only forward that played up to his reputation was Hardman, who went the whole way, and it befitted the occasion that a goal should have come his way. At half back Makepeace was a great success, as was also Abbott at the Abbott at the other end of the line. The former held up the Stoke left wing in clever fashion and in addition, gave Rankin many opportunities that should have produced good results. In the rear-guard R. Balmer was the better back. He invariably anticipate the ball accurately, tackled cleanly, cleared with good judgement, and it was unfortunate that the closing incident of the game should have tarnished his performance. Scott had more trying work to do than Whitley, and he did it well, for not the slightest weakness was discernible. The ex-Evertonian also kept a good goal, though he might have made an effort to save the shot from hardman. The backs were sound; Holford was safe at centre half, and in the front line Rouse and Holdcroft were the most successful of a hard working quintet.

EVERTON MAKE A SLIP AT VICTORIA GROUND
Liverpool Echo - Monday 10 April 1905
By Bee
On Friday I expressed hope that Everton would beat stoke and fear that they would draw. Fear has been fulfilled, and it would seem that the men are not going to bring one cup to the Goodison cupboard this season. Perhaps I saw somewhat pessimistic just now. Yet I fancy the three matches which the club have to wipe off the slate in four days will shear their high feathers. Let’s hope not and talk of Saturday’s draw at Victoria ground. It was not a happy initial movement, Crelley hurting his knee in getting out of the train. The Balmers were backs therefore. Holford  early fouled Rankin, and Makepeace did not have any fear of Whitley as he did when the kick was granted in the Cup fight. He drove it in low down and with force, and Whitley was nowhere. It was a deliberate and wanton foul. After the half-time Scott and W. Balmer drove the Potters back repeatedly, and Hardman being placed in a nice position let fly and scored finely. The home lot were far from beaten, however, and after a succession of corners, and a grand saving exhibition by the Irish goalkeeper, Holdcroft lessened the margin, while just on time R. Balmer inadvertently headed through his own goal. This was a vile turn-up, and it looked as if Father Fate had a day out to tantalise the Blues, whose forward work was at times capital and methodical, and whose halves were as clever as they usually are. Without a “barracking” crowd Rankin played finely. Aren’t we in Liverpool a little too hard on the young man who fails once in a way? It looks simple, does football, but try it and see whether you deserve howling.

EVERTON PLAYERS' NOVEL EXPERIENCE.
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Tuesday 11 April 1905
Yesterday the Everton League team tried another course of Northwich brine baths, and followed it up with, for them, a unique experience. They were lowered in tub three hundred feet into the depths of the Barons Quay salt mine, which is forty acres in extent. The players were greatly impressed with the wonder an unfolded, and all "returned to terra firma with rock salt specimens. In addition to visiting the mine, the team also examined the working of Ashton's Salt Works.

EVERTON TEAM AT NORTHWICH
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 11 April 1905
Yesterday the Everton League team tried another course of the famous Northwich brine baths, and followed it up with, for them, a unique experience. They were lowered in a tub 300 feet into the depths of the Baron’s Quay Salt Mine, which is forty acres in extent. The players were greatly impressed with the wonders unfolded, and all returned to terra firma with rock salt specimens. In addition to visiting the mine, the team also examined the working of Ashton’s Salt Works.

EVERTON PLAYERS’ NOVEL EXPERIENCE
Lancashire Evening Post - Tuesday 11 April 1905
Yesterday the Everton League team tried another course of Northwich brine bathes, and followed it up with, for them, a unique experience. They were lowered in a tub three hundred feet into depths of Barons Quay salt mine, which is forty acres in extent. The players were greatly impressed with the wonders unfolded, and all returned to terra firma with rock salty specimen. In addition to visiting the mine, the team also examined the working of Ashton’s Salt Works.

GRAHAM
Manchester Courier - Tuesday 11 April 1905
Everton are said to have recently entered into negotiation for the transfer of Graham, of Kilmarnock, but the player was unwilling to go to the Mersey.

FOOTBALL FRAGMENTS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 11 April 1905
By Bee
Everton F.C are not without a hope of gaining one cup, even though they stumbled at Stoke stile. Yesterday they tried another course of the famous Northwich brine baths, and followed it up with, for them, a unique experience. They were lowered in a tub 300 feet into the depths of the Baron’s Quay Salt Mine, which is forty acres in extent. The players were greatly impressed with the wonders unfolded, and all returned to terms firms with rock salt specimens. In addition to visiting the mine, team also examined the working of Ashton’s Salt Works.
During the next few days they will go through a very quiet course of training. There will be no end-of-the-season favour about their last home match on Saturday with Small Heath. The newly-named “Birmingham City F.C” say that there is no apparent chance of their getting on top of the rungs, and add “but no one knows; and besides, we must keep our heads above our friends the Villa.” They have never yet succeeded in doing this, and with a lead of three points their favourable chance makes the enthusiast who wagered a dozen top hats get his hand in his picket in readiness to pay off this debts. Healthy rivalry has been pronounced this season in the brass and idol centres.
Everton have fixed up a home “friendly” with Cliftonville for Easter Monday.
The final of the Birkenhead Thursday tour Cup will take place on Thursday at Goodison Park, kindly lent by the Everton F.C directors.

WM WESTON
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 12 April 1905
Wm. Weston, groundsman at the Everton football ground, said he visited the office on the ground about nine o’clock on the morning of the 25th ult., and found the bunch of keys produced on the desk. They did not belong to the Everton Football Club. Witness handed them over to Detective-sergeant Fell, of the Liverpool Police Force.
THURSDAY CUP FINAL
STEVEDORES v.  LIVERPOOL POSTOFFICE
This interesting match will be played tomorrow (Thursday) evening, at Goodison park (kindly lent by the Everton F.C. directors); kick-off 5.30 p.m. Liverpool Post-office, who were in the final last season, but were beaten after a good game by Birkenhead Half Holiday, are hoping to go one better and carry off the “cup,” but the Dominion team will, no doubt, have a word to say about the ultimate destination of the piece of silver. As they have won the Thursday League Cup, they have now set their hearts on finding a companion for it on their president’s side-board; in any case they are sure of a trophy, as a fine “shield” is presented to the runners-up, which is at present held by their opponents of to-morrow. The referee is Mr. R.F. Parry, and Messrs. Orrett and Lloyd the linesmen.

BOOTH REAPPEARS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 13 April 1905
By Bee
Everton supporters well welcome the return of the captain of the club to the team on Saturday. Tom Booth has long been absent from the ranks, the injuries to his leg in the Sheffield United and Preston North End matches keeping him out. The half-back division has lost little, if anything, but Booth’s absence because the club have the good fortune to possess such a capable all-round player in Taylor, yet the moving of the latter player to a backward position has had the effect of upsetting the right wing forwards. McDermott somehow does not make a fitting partner for Sharp. Both players have the ability and, nevertheless, they do not form so strong a wing as one would expect. It is conceded by all that Taylor gets more out of Sharp than anyone who has ever partnered the cricketer. Therefore, it is all the more bad fortune that on Saturday, when Booth is able to resume at centre-half. Sharp will not be able to play alongside Taylor, because his shoulder and arm are still so unwell. It will be like old times to see the captain of the eleven in the fray. I was talking to him recently, and he said that when he had a trial spin against Southport Central he stood the strain nicely, and did not anticipate any further trouble. Since then his appearances in the second team have led the directors to believe that he could safely and advantageously be included with the seniors.
Roose and Crelley are fit again, and McDermott is ill, so that the rearranged team to meet Small Heath will be composed of the following;-
Roose; W. Balmer, and Crelley; Makepeace, Booth, Abbott; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
With the reserves are new men in McGuire, Plested and Yendell.

FOOTBALL ITEMS
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 14 April 1905
Everton supporters will welcome the return of the captain of the club to the team on Saturday. Tom Booth has long been absent from the ranks, the injuries to his leg in the Sheffield United and Preston North End matches keeping him out. The half back division has lost little if anything, by Booth’s absence, because the club have the good fortune to possess such a capable all-round player in Taylor, yet the moving of the latter player to a backward position has had the effect of upsetting the right ring forwards. Roose and Crelley are fit again, and McDermott is ill, so that the rearranged team to meet Small Heath will be composed of the following;- Roose; W. Balmer, and Crelley; Makepeace, Booth, Abbott; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman. With the reserves are new men in McGuire, Plested, and Yerdell.

TO-MORROW’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 14 April 1905
Everton v Small Heath
At Goodison park; 3.30. Everton; L.R. Roose, goal; W. Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Everton Res v Stalybridge Rovers
At Stalybridge; 3.30. Train leaves Lime-street at 1 o’clock.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, Plested, Maguire, and Yendall, forwards. Reserves; Dilly and Caldwell.

THE NEW FOOTBALL TROPHY.
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 14 April 1905
It is greatly to be feared that there will be no match this season between the Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs, as suggested yesterday, in connection with the gift by Colonel Hall Walker of a cup for the victors in a game to be arranged in connection with the unemployed fund. Several matches have yet to be played by both clubs which are fraught with great issues, and it is felt that it would be too severe a strain to add another game at Eastertide to those already arranged in connection with the Leagues. Had the suggestion been made earlier in the season there is not the slightest doubt but that the executives of the two clubs would have readily yielded to the suggestion.

TEAM ARRANGEMENTS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 15 April 1905
Everton v Small Heath
League match, at Goodison Park; Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Roose, goal; W. Balmer and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Stalybridge v Everton Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Stalybridge; Lime Street Station 1.
Everton Reserve.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, Plested, McGuire, and Yendell, forwards.

EVERTON v  SMALL HEATH
Sports Argus - Saturday 15 April 1905
COVENTRY ROAD MEN BEATEN BY A GOAL
EVEN PLAY
By the “Heathen.”
The second meeting of the season of the Heath and Everton was of vast importance to the home side. The Heath had to journey to Liverpool with sadly depleted ranks, Beer, Wigmore, and Field being absentees. Beer had not recovered from a cold which prevented him turning out last week, while Wigmore’s injured knee will, for the second week in succession, cause him to stand down Windridge, who acted as Wilcox’s under study, took the outside left position, and Hartwell and Howard again filled the vacancies caused by the absence of Wigmore and Beer. The sides were;-
Small Heath.- Robinson; Glover, Stokes; Dougherty, Hartwell, Howard; Tickle, Green, Jones, Wilcox, Windridge.
Everton.- L.R. Roose; Balmer, R. Balmer; Makepeace, Booth (captain), Abbott; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, H.P. Hardman.
Everton won the toss, and the Heathens had to face the sun and a stiff breeze. The Everton right first broke away, and Rankin put the ball to Settle, who was beaten by Stokes before he could get in his shot. The homesters again put on pressure, and Hardman sent outside. Then the Heathens got away on the right, and Booth failed to check them, but W. Balmer came across and checked them. The visitors afterwards attacked on the left, but they failed to get near enough to the Everton goal to be dangerous. At the same time W. Balmer and his brother were very frequently called upon to defend, but they proved very steady when under pressure. On several occasions the Everton wings quite failed to take advantage of opportunities, although the Heath defence was always sound. Eventually Hardman got away and drove in a magnificent swift shot, the goalkeeper being put to some trouble to save his charge. Dashing play by W, Balmer culminated in a bustling bit of play close to the visitors’ goal, and from a breakaway on the part of Small Heath W. Balmer punted well and placed the ball at Young’s toes, but the Everton centre-forward failed to grasp the opportunity. The visitors derived no advantage from a free-kick again. Settle but a foul against the Heath enabled W. Balmer to put the right wing on the attack. The ball went across to Hardman, whose shot forced a corner, and from this the ball was headed by the side of the goal. Next followed a bright bit of play by Taylor and Rankin, which put the Heath defence in confusion, and on the ball going back to Booth that player tried a shot at goal, and Robinson brought off a magnificent save. Soon after Jones went away down the centre, but he placed the leather too forward and R. Balmer stayed further advance. Although Small Heath stubbornly contested the ground already gained, Taylor led his men into Brum territory, but when things looked rosy offside spoiled the move. The Heath left and centre dashed away with a pretty movement, only to be finally brought to book by Abbott. Wilcox looked like getting through when Makepeace dashed in and robbed finely. Booth and Abbott in turn tackled the advancing force, and for some time met with success, but eventually Hartwell scored.
Half-time;- Heath 1 Everton 0
Result; Everton 2 Small Heath 1
COMMENTS ON THE GAME
Prior to the start the Heath had never been able to claim a victory over Everton. Consequently the Heath could not have great hopes of success. They started off the mark finely, and though they did not get in any shots to Roose there was danger in most of their attacks which were decidedly brisk considering they had to receive the passes with the sun glaring in their faces.
Windridge had an unusually hard task in facing the elder Balmer, who is a fearless kicker. Harwell did much that was useful in defence, but in feeding the forwards he was not accurate.
Booth livened a sleepy attacking line by one brilliant dribble, and shot, Howard heading over. Equally brilliant was the shot by Green, and the save by Roose.
Hartwell’s goal was a beauty-somewhat like those he hit the post with last week. One up, with the conditions against them, was good business for Small Heath.
Everton oftentimes win their matches in the second “45,” and then set about their work earnestly, Young fully deserving all credit for the equaliser.

STALYBRIDGE ROVERS
Stalybridge Reporter - Saturday 15 April 1905
After a lengthy absence from Crookbottom,  Stalybridge Rovers are “at home” to-day, Everton being the visitors. Although out of the five matches played away since their last appearance at Crookbottom only 3 points have been obtained, the team are playing a good game. Everton are placing a strong team in the field this afternoon. The Rovers’ directors are hoping to have good gates at their remaining home matches to enable them to discharge the liabilities for the season.

EVERTON v SMALL HEATH
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 15 April 1905
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
(unfortunate page 3 article is missing)
A GLORIOUS GA,E
EVERTON’S TEAM REARRANGED
A DURIOUS IMPROVEMENT
HEATHENS ALWAYS DANGEROUS
HARTWELL OPENS THEIR ACCOUNT
YOUNG EQUALISES
MAKEPEACE SCORES FROM A PENALTY
After the restart Everton bestirred themselves, and were soon busy on the left wing, Young eluding his opponents and shooting across the goal, Rankin meeting the ball and putting it over the crossbar. Booth endeavoured to make up for lost time, but failed to hit the bull’s-eye; and then a promising move by the Evertonians was spoiled owing to Young being pronounced offside. Further pretty passing by the homesters was nullified by a feeble shot from Taylor. Everton made desperate efforts to equalise just before half-time. Booth making a dash to get the ball through a ruck of players. None of the other players could get placed. Small heath endeavoured to the other end on several occasions, but they were always held well in check.
Half-time score; Small Heath 1 goal Everton nil.
After changing ends some capital work was put in by Booth and Makepeace, and Rankin put in a shot which Robinson saved, but while the goalkeeper was out of his position Abbott let fly at goal, but placed the ball over the crossbar. The home team attacked fiercely again and again, but finished badly. A free-kick against Everton enabled the Heathens to go down in force, and Windridge came near to beating Roose. A rush by Rankin gained a corner, but the visitors at once came away, and Booth and R. Balmer were in turn beaten by the right wing. Then Jones came out, but was offside. Rankin made the muddle at the other end, and then Settle tried to score, Robinson scooping the ball out just in time. A corner to Everton followed in due course, but again the home team failed to profit by the advantage they had gained. Everton’s efforts in the second stage of the second half ere no more methodical than before, and the defect was most marked in the front line, high was always making mistakes and spoiling the position gained. At last Settle dashed right into the fray, but just when he appeared likely to succeed the Brum custodian scooped the leather out of the corner of the net. However, compensation speedily came, as Taylor, taking possession, made off accompanied by Young, who took a forward pass, and beating Stokes very cleverly, equalised, to the frantic delight of the crowd. From the restart the Blues showed much improved form, putting more vigour into their work, and the half-backs’ work especially being very commendable. Young had a couple of excellent opportunities provided, but he failed at the critical moment. Unfortunately Rankin and Taylor could make successful partners. Everton continued to exert great pressure, Settle having particularly hard lines, and a gallant effort of Hardman’s was spoiled by the close attention of Glover. The home forwards’ play was so energetic that the Heathens defence was kept very busy and they had numerous narrow squeaks. Grand work between Booth, Abbott, and Settle gave Young a fine opening, and he was sailing along splendidly when a shove in the back spoiled an almost certain score. Mr. Dennis awarded a penalty, which Makepeace succeeded in turning to account.
Final Result; Everton 2 goals, Small Heath 1 goal.

STALYBRIDGE ROVERS v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 15 April 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV A
Played at Stalybridge in splendid weather, before a good gate. The Rovers won the toss, and Everton set the ball going uphill. The opening exchanges were tame. J. Patterson passed to S. Patterson, who put in a pretty shot, Kitchen clearing under the bar. Play was even for a time, and then the Rovers became aggressive, the Everton backs having to clear repeatedly. Quarter-time; Stalybridge Rovers 1 goal, Everton nil. Half-time; Stalybridge Rovers 3 goals, Everton Reserve nil.

EVERTON 2 SMALL HEATH 1
April 17, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
EVERTON'S LAST HOME MATCH
Everton wound up their League season on Saturday, when they credited themselves with a victory by two goals to one over Small Heath. It was a fitting termination to successful work at Goodison-park, seeing that 30 out of 34 points have been gained, and that only one club-Sunderland- can boast of having vanquished the Blues on their own territory. This is, indeed, a capital record in these days of strenuous rivalry, and what remains now is for the Evertonians to go all the way in their matches at Manchester Woolwich, and Nottingham and make certain of the championship, which has so frequently just been snatched from them. The task is no light one, in as much as the games are to be played on Good Friday, Saturday, and Easter Monday. Still, it should not be beyond the prowess of the team if only that extra effort is put forth. It would be a great consolation for the disappointment of the semi-final ties of the English Cup competition.
THE GAME.
By vanquishing Small Heath, Everton maintained a somewhat unique record. The Heathens have never yet beaten the Evertonians in a League match. They have had an attempts to do so, but their only success has been a couple of drawn games. However, at one period in Saturday's match it looked as if the visiting side might snatch a victory. The first half especially, as far as Everton were concerned was suggestive of the end of the season's football. They made openings enough, but apart from weak shooting with a general slackness, which, was not encouraging to their supporters. The Heathens were in vigorous mood, and the goal, which Hartwell registered from long range, was thoroughly well deserved. However, in the second half the home team imparted more life into their movements, and in the end had their opponents completely beaten. The equalising goal fell to Young, but it was really the outcome of smart tactics by Taylor, who parted with the ball to the centre, just at the right moment, Young would have obtained the second point on his own account had he not been tripped within the forbidden area. However, it mattered little, as the penalty kick being entrusted to Makepeacea a penalty goal accrued. By the way this was the seventh goal which this vastly improved right half has put on for his side this season; indeed,, only on one occasion has he been unsuccessful with a penalty kick. In the closing stages the Heathens, with a little luck, might have drawn level, but for the most part the run of play favoured the Evertonians.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS.
It must be remembered when considering the players that the victors were short of three of their regular representatives-Crelly, Sharp, and McDermott. At the same time, it cannot be said that the substitutes were unsuccessful. For the first time this season the veteran Jack Taylor appeared in the forward line, Booth, who has had an unfortunate season on account of injuries, taking his place at centre half. Needless to say Taylor did his best, but he scarcely possesses now the speed requisite in a forward. At the same time many of his touches were in quite his best vein. It was also evident that Booth has lost little of his old skill, but the most effective of the halves was Makepeace. Young accomplished much good work, while the left wing was undoubtedly superior to the right, while Rankin and Taylor hardly fell into each other's style. The brothers Balmer performed creditably, and Roose in goal was always reliable. Without being showy, the Heathens both in attack and defence proved worthy antagonists, despite the fact that they turned out without such men as Beer, Wigmore, and Field.
Everton:- Roose goal W.Balmer and R.Balmer, backs, Makepeace Booth (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Rankin Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. Small Heath:- Robinson, goal, Stokes, and Beers, backs, Wigmore, Dougherty, and Athersmith, half-backs, Green, James,, Jones, Wilcox, and Field, forwards. Referee Mr.Dennis.

LEAGUE TABLE TOP FIVE
Plyd. W L D F A Pts
1 Everton…………………31 20 6 5 60 32 45
2 Newcastle United………30 20 8 2 61 28 42
3 Manchester City……….31 18 7 6 59 34 42
4 Sheffield United……….32 19 11 2 63 50 40
5 Small Heath…………...31 16 11 4 54 39 36

EVERTON RETAIN THE LEADERSHIP
Athletic News - Monday 17 April 1905
By Junius
The last League match of the season was decided at Goodison Park before 20,000 people, when Small Heath, for the second time during the campaign, were beaten by Everton, the score in the latter’s favour, 2-1, being the same as in the previous meeting.  On the visitors’ side Windridge was deputed to fill the outside-left position.  Crelley was unable to play, and McDermott was likewise absent, which caused a rearrangement of the Everton attack.  Taylor was brought inside right to Rankin, who played vice Sharp, injured, and the skipper, Tom Booth, made a welcome reappearance at centre-half, whilst young Balmer partnered his brother at full-back.  A strong breeze was blowing from goal to goal, and a dazzling sun brightened the scene when jones started for the “Heathens,” who had to face these conditions.  The visitors were the more dangerous side in the first half, and after thirty minutes’ play they opened the scoring.  Everton were not too effective near goal, and their most dangerous shot in this half came from Booth, who, with a surprise effort gave Robinson some trouble in clearing.  A breakaway on the visitors’ right enabled Green to dash through, but Roose smartly cleared his final effort.  From a throw-in just outside the twelve-yards’ mark, the ball came out to Hartwell, who sent in a long shot which struck the post, and was thereby diverted into the net.  Everton made great efforts to get on level terms, and Makepeace was frequently prominent, but at the interval Small heath led by a goal.  Immediately after the restart Rankin got away, and his centre brought out Robinson, who only partially cleared, and Abbott pounced on the leather, and before the custodian could get back shot wildly over the bar, thus missing a golden opportunity.  Small heath seemed like increasing their advantage when Windridge worked through, but Roose saved at the expense of a corner.  Twenty minutes had elapsed when Taylor – the war hose-led the way in a stirring raid, and,  passing to Young at the correct moment, the latter made no mistake, despite the attentions of Robinson.  After this success, Everton played more keenly, and another dash led to Young being fouled inside the penalty area.  Makepeace, of course, took the kick, and thereby secured the winning goal.  Both sides shaped better against the wind than when they enjoyed the advantage of it, and the three points were scored at the same goal.  It was a difficult matter to control the ball, which was rather lively, owing to the breeze, but during the earlier stages the visitors’ forwards were more accurate in their efforts than the Everton players.  The result, however, just about reflects the general character of the play, for though the Midlanders were the more aggressive prior to the interval, they were more overplayed afterwards than the home side had been previously.  None of the Everton forwards were particularly prominent, and it was asking too much of Taylor to figure in the front rank, though as usual he lacked nothing for want to genuine striving.  In the intermediate line, Makepeace gave a splendid exposition, tackling finely and placing to his forwards with commendable accuracy.  As a converter of penalty kicks he is becoming a player of exceptional notoriety, and it is somewhat singular that he was the means of Small Heath’s downfall earlier in the season, by a similarly gained goal.  Abbott played a good game, and Booth improved as the match progressed.  The defence was fairly sound, and Roose was responsible for some smart clearances.  Jones was the outstanding figure in the “Heathens” front line, and he was the leader in every advance.  Tickle and Green were also frequently in evidence, and there was no mistaking the earnest intentions of the whole division.  Hartwell, at centre-half, gave a promising display his height proving a very useful adjunct in his play.  The defenders of Glover and Stokes was extremely sound, whilst Robinson kept a good goal.  Everton; L.R. Roose; W. Balmer, and R. Balmer; Makepeace, Booth (Captain), Abbott; Rankin, Taylor, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Small Heath; Robinson; Glover, Stokes; Dougherty, Hartwell, Howard; Tickle, Green, Jones, Wilcox, and Windridge.  Referee; Mr. F.H. Dennis, Middlesbrough. 

STALYBRIDGE ROVERS 3 EVERTON RESERVES 0
April 17, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 31)
Everton cup up badly at Stalybridge where the “Wooden spoonists” inflicted upon them a 3-0 defeat. Everton played in very poor form throughout, and the defenders had a good deal of work thrown upon them. The Rovers played up wonderfully well, and the inclusion at centre of Galvin late of Brynn Central, made a wonderful difference to the forwards. The newcomers helped himself to a couple of goals in the first half, and altogether gave a capital impression. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Roberts, Caldwell, McLoughlin Maguire, and Yendell forwards.

SATURDAY FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 17 April 1905
Another League season was finished at Goodison Park on Saturday by a victory over Small Hetah, who for the second time during the present campaign were vanquished by Everton by 2 goals to 1. Heathens put up a good fight in the first half, but their forwards almost ran themselves to a standstill during this period, and in the closing stages they were more decisively beaten than the score demonstrates. Small Heath have yet to register their first victory over Everton, but the team which sported their colours in their most recent visit to Liverpool made a great effort to accomplished this feat, and break what must be becoming a monotonous record of reverses. When they scored by the aid of Hartwell after thirty minutes had elapsed, and were continuing to show more effective form than the Everton players, it did seem as if their ambition would be realised. On both sides, weakness near goal was the most prominent characteristic of the play, but when Everton changed ends and faced the wind, they began to exert more pressure than heretofore, and the rare old warhorse Taylor led the way in a rousing onslaught which enabled him to give Young a perfect chance of equalising. This was promptly accomplished, and another dash shortly afterwards saw the Everton centre fouled inside the penalty area when the goal was at his mercy. Makepeace calmy added the winning point. Prior to the change of ends Small Heath were the more dangerous team, their forwards displaying any amount of energy, but they were none too deadly when near goal, and several promising openings were spoiled by wild shooting. Jones was always forging ahead, ferreting out opportunities for his wing men, and he darted about hither and thither like a little steam launch amongst bulkier shipping. This feature was noticeable all along the front line, and what the men lacked in skill they neutralised by the keenness of their endeavours. Unfortunately for them, they could not maintain the pace they set, and they were well beaten at the finish. Green and Windridge are similar players to Jones, lacking nothing for want of earnest striving, and the cleverest individual in the front line was Wilcox, though Tickle on the extreme right was prominent at times with smart rushes along the wing. Amongst the half backs, Hartwell was frequently in evidence, and he should develop into a very fine centre half back. The others were also useful, but further behind Stokes and Glover defended very resolutely, the former displaying more style and resource in this work than his partner, who, however, made no mistakes and kicked very cleanly. Robinson had not a great deal to do in goal, and he was helpless to divert the shots which beat him.
The Everton forwards were not very incisive in their attacks, and their best achievements were witnessed after the change of ends. There was not the swing about the inward moves which is such a necessary adjunct to success and frequently did the combination break down in the most unexpectedly fashion. Rankin was bad and good alternately, the worst feature of his play being the inaccurate manner in which he put across his centres, most of which went straight to an opponent. Taylor did as well as could be expected, but the veteran has finished with the forward line, and though he provided Rankin with several capital openings, he was clearly unable to properly combine with the remaining forwards. This doubtless affected the outside winger’s play but apart from this, Rankin did not utilise the chances which did come his way. Young was likewise erratic, and he was inclined to hesitate when it came to a tussle for possession between him and the backs. Settle and Hardman formed the better wing, but they were not seen at their best, and taking the forward play all round there was vast room for improvement. For a certain period during the second half there was little cause for complaint, but before half-time there was nothing to enthuse about, and more than a suspicious of end of the season football was noticeable, which played into the hands of the Heathens. In the intermediate line Bootle made a long delayed reappearance, but it is obvious the skipper is still far removed from the form which was associated with his work prior to his injury. Evidently he will not be thoroughly up to concert-pitch again this season, though he came on as the play progressed, which is a favourable sign. Makepeace was the most effective of the half-backs, and gave one of his fine expositions. In dispossessing an opponent and placing to his down forwards he was never lacking either in resource or skill, and his performance was a brilliant finale to a most successful season. Abbott also gave a good display, and further behind the brothers Balmer offered a fairly reliable opposition to the attacks of their opponents. At times the younger brother mistimed his rushes and failed to get either the ball or check the player, but the pair managed to cover roose effectually, and the custodian was seldom in difficulties. Shots from Windridge and Jones in each half caused some trouble, but as a general rule the visitors’ attacks were not sustained and Roose was equal to most of the demands upon him. Thus the curtain rung down on the seventeenth League campaign at Everton as far as their home matches are concerned, and if the championship is won, ‘twill be some consolation for other failures.

NEW LEEDS CLUB
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 17 April 1905
A company has been formed to run a first-class Association football in Leeds. The capital of the company-which is called “The Leeds City Association Football Club Company, Limited” -is £10,000 in shares of £1 each. Public subscriptions are invited for one half and the lists will be closed on or before April 29. The directors state that the formation of the company is due to a desire on the part of the committee and members of the Leeds City Association Football Club to introduce into Leeds the highest class of Association football.

SMALL HEATH PLAY WELL AT EVERTON
Birmingham Daily Post - Monday 17 April 1905
Small Heath gave a good display against Everton at Goodison Park, on Saturday, and had they been fully represented they might have secured a victory instead of being defeated by two goals to one. Unfortunately, however, they, like Everton, were prevented from taking the field with their strongest side. Although facing wind and sun Small Heath had the better of the game at the start, and Tickle and Green were prominent for some excellent work on the right wing, the former being responsible for some remarkably fine sprints. His centring, too, was accurate, and on one occasion Hartwell, with a nice opening, shot the ball over the bar. After a spell of pressure by Everton, in which the visiting defenders were seen to advantage, Small Heath again became aggressive, and Roose was highly tried in goal. He saved brilliantly from Green, eluding a rush from the opposing forwards, but a minute later was beaten by a shot from Hartwell. Small Heath, having established a lead at the interval with the conditions against them, seemed likely to win, but subsequently they were slightly inferior to the home players, who did much better than before and Young at length had the satisfaction of equalising with a shot which Robinson had no possible chance of stopping. The Everton forwards, from whom Sharp was absent, showed much better form than in the first half, but failed to beat the defence, and it was from a penalty kick that the winning goal was scored. Young was pushed down in the penalty area, and Makepeace who took the kick, put his side ahead. There was little sting in Everton’s shooting, nor could they complain that chances were lacking, but such as came they failed to turn to account. Roose was fine in goal, and was in no way to blame when the visitors’ scoring account was opened. In goal and at full back the visitors were equal to Everton, while at half and forward they were perhaps better, for their halves were quick to seize chances and judicious in feeding the forwards, who made better use of their opportunities. The home lot seemed somewhat disorganised by the absence of Sharp and McDermott. It was fortunate for them that they were awarded the penalty, and that Roose was in such superb form, otherwise they would have dropped at least one valuable point.

TWO POINTS LOST
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 17 April 1905
SMALL HEATH SUCCUMB TO EVERTON
EVERTON 2 SMALL HEATH 1
Neither Everton nor Small Heath displayed anything like championship form on Saturday at Goodison Park before 20,000 people, and in summer-like weather. Whether it was the warm weather or the approaching end of the season the exchanges were indifferent and lackadaisical, and unless Everton very considerably improve they will lose the League championship, as well as the English Cup. The match was interesting, fairly exciting, but never productive of combination or tricky play. The margin by which Everton won was a fitting one, but the Heath were somewhat unfortunate in having to take the field short of Wigmore, Beer, and Field. For the first-named Hartwell operated, and in his cool, calculating manner held up Young, the Scottish international, in capital style. He was always in the thick of the fray, and on most occasions came out on top of the opposition. Moreover, he had the distinction of scoring the Heath’s goal. After an hour’s uneventful play the left wing of the visitors was prominent, and the elder Balmer kicked into touch. From here the ball was passed and repassed, and eventually found its way to Hartwell, who promptly took in the situation and let fly. The ball soared in the air and travelled towards the right-hand corner. Roose flung himself towards it, missed it, and the ball struck the underpart of the crossbar and shot down over the line. It was a magnificent goal.
WEAK LEFT WING
Windridge, who deputised for Field, was weak, but it must not be forgotten that he was playing against Makepeace, one of the most accomplished and speedy of half-backs, who will, if his form he kept up, soon he gaining international honours. Windridge started at outside left, and failing here, he and Wilcox changed places, and before the second half had been going twenty minutes they resumed their original places. The left wing throughout was the weak portion of the team. Jones ought to have fed Green and Tickle more often, finding that the left wing was off colour. When the attackers did get going there was generally much spirit about their work. Jones and Wilcox sustained early kicks and limped badly. Howard did good things-and medium work. He was most useful in stopping rushes, but his placing to the men ahead of him could have been improved. Stokes and Glover performed finely, and so did Robinson, who once dangerously left his goal unguarded. Everton bustled into their work with rare vigour, and won in the second half. Most of their games have been won in the latter half. They applied almost continual pressure in the concluding half. Taylor passed most judiciously when well up, and Young had only to beat Robinson. Then Young went through the defence, and was pushed, who by it was hard to say. Penalties out Everton way are almost “certainties”- they have Makepeace to take them. He has missed but one out of more than a dozen this season. Roose was brillaint, and so were Tickle, Windridge, Green, and Wilcox, and the Balmers defended ably.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Monday 17 April 1905
By Bee
Everton did not display anything like championship form at Goodison. Whether it was the warm weather or the approaching end of the season the exchanges were indifferent and lackadaisical, and unless Everton very considerably improve they will lose the League championship. The match was interesting fairly exciting, but never productive of sound combination or tricky play. The margin by which Everton won was a fitting won. Harwell, who opened blood for the Heath, let fly smartly from long distance. The ball soared in the air and travelled towards the right hand corner. Roose flung himself towards it, missed it, and the ball struck the under part of the crossbar, and shot down over the line. It was a magnificent goal, and all through this young lad at centre half played a cool, calculating and clever game. He is a rare lump of a fellow, and his long legs are of great advantage. With the Heath one up at the interval, and the sun’s strong rays to hinder the Blues there was just a possibility that the home men were to be denied their full points. In the main Taylor was the man who put the fire into the forward rank. His shooting was ill timed; yet he made up with real gingerly dash. It was most necessary. Young’s equaliser was a simple matter. He only had to put the ball through from an easy position. It was, to my mind, Taylor’s goal. The inside right worked the ball up the field, and with judgement drew Stokes towards him. At the opportune moment he passed out instead of shooting, because Young was so finely situated. It was a well got goal. Then either Glover or Howard pushed Young in the back, and Makepeace converted the penalty -the seventh of eight he has been entrusted with. The bare fact that the Blues won by a goal margin against the Heath, whose ranks were seriously depleted, does not suggest, even now Manchester City have lost their chance, that Everton will gain honours. They were sadly lacking on most occasions. Half-back they were magnificent and in goal. W. Balmer nearly lost a goal through trying to dribble against Green. Everton have Manchester City, Woolwich, and Nottingham on Friday, Saturday, and Monday respectively. Would it be to the player’s benefit to send then away to the seaside at once? They are stale. 

FOOTBALL ITEMS
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 18 April 1905
The Everton footballers showed on Saturday that the wear and tear of the season is telling on their play. The men have a very fair chance of heading the League, Division 1, even if their three remaining matches are away from home. Yesterday the players went to Blackpool for a week’s light training.

EVERTON’S FIRST VISIT FOR SPECIAL TRAINING
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 18 April 1905
By Bee
One thing was most patent about the flabby way the Everton players went about their work on Saturday; they were stale. This is a natural consequence of a heavy programme. Not one word of disparagement could be offered to such a show. The only question was how best the man could be brightened up to give improved exhibitions. Manchester City, in particular, and other organisation are suffering from staleness, and as the City only extracted a point from Sheffield Wednesday’s visit, the likelihood of the Blues holding the fort right up to the finish was heightened. The directors took a wise course in departing from their formerly rigid faith in home training combined with the Northwich dip. They sent the men yesterday morning to Blackpool, and by the salt sea waves the men will remain until Friday in preparing for a stiff trio of engagements. On Friday they contest with Manchester City, on Saturday with Woolwich Arsenal, and on East Monday with Nottingham Forest, who are certain to put in all they know, since Bury may have to accompany Notts County to the lower regions. Robert Balmer, McLoughlin, and Rankin have gone into special training in addition to the ordinary members of the first team. There is just a possibility that Sharp will be found ready and well enough to take his accustomed place as early as Friday.

FOOTBALL AND THE UNEMPLOYED
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 19 April 1905
PROPOSED MATCH BETWEEN EVERTON AND LIVERPOOL
The directors of the Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs and representatives of the Unemployed Committee were yesterday entertained to luncheon by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool at the Town Hall. The object was to bring together the manager of the two great football organisations and those who are interested in the Unemployed Fund, with a view to promoting a match for the relief of the poor. Colonel W. Hall Walker, M.P., has offered to give a handsome cup and medals, the cup to be competed for annually, and the proceeds of the matches to be devoted to the Unemployed Fund. The Lord Mayor alluded in graceful terms to the generosity of Colonel Walker, and expressed the hope that the movement might find fruition without delay. In the course of a friendly and informal discussion, it was pointed out that in view of the approaching close of the football season, and the heavy engagements of both the Everton and Liverpool teams, a match was scarcely possible this month, but Colonel Walker’s offer was none the less appreciated. On the motion of the Lord Mayor, seconded by Councillor Austin Harford (chairman of the Unemployed Committee), the following resolution was unanimously adopted;- “That the generous offer of Colonel Hall Walker, M.P., to provide a trophy, with medals for this year, to be competed for annually between the Everton and Liverpool football clubs, in aid of the Liverpool Unemployed Fund, be accepted.”
Colonel Hall Walker said he was only too pleased to be an agent, in some small degree, towards doing something which might annually relieve the distress in Liverpool. In the course of further conversation it was shown that there were considerable difficulties in the way of a match taking place either in May or August. The sanction of the Football Association would have to be obtained for such a meeting and the consensus of opinion was that such sanction would not be granted. It was decided that the Lord Mayor and the two club secretaries-Mr. W.C. Cuff (Everton) and Mr. Tom Watson (Liverpool)- should approach the Association with a view to getting a relaxation of the general rule. It was further suggested that in the event of a match between the two clubs being impracticable, a schoolboys’ match should be arranged and that, by the aid of tickets, a special effort should be made to realise a substantial sum towards the sorely depleted funds of the Unemployed Committee. the meeting closed with a very cordial vote of thanks to the Lord Mayor for his hospitality and forethought.

TOMORROW TEAM ARRANAGEMENT
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 20 April 1905
Everton v Manchester City
First League match at Manchester; kick-off 3
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Bolton Wanderers Reserve
Combination match at Bolton; kick-off 2.45
Everton Reserve;- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, Dilly, Thorburn, Caldwell and Evans, forwards.

EVERTON’S STIFF TASKS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 20 April 1905
By Bee
Holiday football is extremely important and locally the clubs will have a tremendous amount of interest centred in their doings. Taking Everton first, we find that they are trying to play Manchester City tomorrow, and the kick-off is fixed for three o’clock. Then they play their postponed match of November at Woolwich on the Saturday, the kick-off being 3.30. at Nottingham on Monday they will start against the Forest at 3.15 and no doubt the Liverpool holiday element will provide many visitors to the banks of the Trent. The team chosen for the stiff tasks is- Roose; Balmer and Crelley; Makepeace, Booth and Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
McDermott is suffering from gastritis, and is not with the other members training at Blackpool.
The Hyde-road programme is brought to a close tomorrow and in all probability the City will play the identical team that drew with Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday. Burgess is a doubtful starter on account of the injury to his thigh. If he cannot turn out, Norgrove will take his place. It was anticipated that they would go to Blackpool. Owing to the heavy excursion traffic, however, which might have led to the upset of their arrangements it was decided to train at home. Everton have three and Newcastle United four more matches to play, and the former are three points ahead of their rivals. Here are their remaining games;-
Everton
Notts Forest (a), Woolwich Arsenal (a), Manchester City (a)
Newcastle
Stoke (h), Sunderland (h), Sheffield Wednesday (a), Middlesbrough (a)
All Everton’s matches will be stiff encounters but with almost the strongest team at their command they will no doubt go every inch of the way. John Sharp will be welcomed, and one will be gratified to find the boys of the old brigade in Sharp and Taylor on the right. Booth at centre half, and Crelley alongside Balmer once again before the season ends.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 21 April 1905
Everton play Manchester City to-day and the kick-off is fixed for three o’clock. Then they play their postponed match of November at Woolwich to-morrow, the kick-off being 3.30. at Nottingham on Monday they will start against the Forest at 3.15 and no doubt the Liverpool holiday element will provide many visitors to the banks of the Trent. The team chosen for the stiff tasks is;- Roose; Balmer and Crelley; Makepeace, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman. McDermott is suffering from gastritis and is not with the other members training at Blackpool.

BELFAST CELTIC PLAYER FOR EVERTON
Dublin Evening Mail - Friday 21 April 1905
E. Maguire, who assisted Belfast Celtic at outside right during the latter portion of the season, has been signed by Everton. For whom he will be eligible for the remainder of the season, the necessary transfer forms being duly completed at the end of last week.

MANCHESTER CITY 2 EVERTON 0
April 22, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
A REGRETTABLE INCIDENT.
Yesterday at Manchester Everton commenced the very difficult task of playing three matches in four days in their quest for sufficient points to enable them to make their position as League leaders secure. They had by no means an easy task in meeting Manchester City, who themselves had a chance of securing the championship, and they were unfortunate in having to turn out with out Makepeace, their most consistent half-backs, who had to be left behind at Blackpool suffering from a severe cold. However, Sharp and McDermott were able to reappear, and with Burgess the only absentee on the City side, the teams were as follows: - Manchester City: - Hillman, goal, McMahon, and Norgrove, backs, Frost, Hynds.and Buchan, half-backs, half-backs, Meredith, Livingstone, Jones, Turnbull, and Booth, forwards. Everton: - Roose, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Sharp McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Referee J.H.Howcroft. There would be over 35,000 spectators present when Young started against the wind, and Sharp got away his centre being cleared by Hunds. Taylor and Booth did good work, and the City were kept in their own half for some time. Hynds initiated a good movement, and Meredith put the ball through but Booth had just before been penalised for offside. The City continued to press, and Roose fisted out a fine shot from Meredith. Everton at length got going on the left, only for Young to get offisde as he shot pass the post. Later Crelly cleared in fine style, and the Everton forwards dashed away, Young calling upon Hillman with a slow shot. A mistake by the referee gave Meredith a clever course, but Abbott managed to get in the way of his shot. A moment later, however, the Everton goal had a narrow escape, Livingstone driving the ball at great speed inches on the wrong side of the post. Play was fast and exciting, but so far the City had held a decided advantage. After Hillman had handled from a weak shot by Young. Booth saved an almost certain goal by knocking Turnbull off the ball when the forwards was a yard or two from Roose, Turnbull was hurt, but soon resumed, and a couple of corners to the City were unproductive. After about 17 minutes play the City opened the scoring through Hynds the goal coming as the result of a free kick awarded against Taylor. The referee was at fault in awarding the kick, as Frost when jumping at the Everton half-back. The referee (Mr.J.H.Howcroft, of Bolton) was not very happy in his decisions, and he erred again when he pulled Young up for offside after the centre had taken the ball into the goalmouth. Everton failed to make headway against the worrying tactics of the home halves and the wind, out the shooting of the City forwards was poor. On one occasion, however, Roose saved grandly from Hynds, and from the succeeding corner he fisted out in fine style. Then Everton put on pressure, and from a free kick Sharp placed to Young, who was right in front of goal, but Hillman saved when a goal seemed certain. The Everton forwards now played up in something like their old form, and from a corner, forced by Hardman, McMahon was lucky to save after Hillman had lost the ball. Later Young headed just wide, and then the City got away, and Livingstone put on a second goal with a surprise shot, which just travelled inside the post. Everton were not done with, however, and after a corner had been forced without success. Hardman shot wide when splendidly placed. Next Frost hooked out the ball from Sharp when Hillman, was helpless, and again Young, when almost under the bar, managed to send the ball over. Half-time Manchester City 2 goals, Everton nil.
Jones restarted play and on three occasions Sharp got away only to be pulled up each time by the united efforts of Buchan and McMahon. Then the City went in front, but Crelly defended stoutly, although on one occasion Turnbull headed just over the bar from Meredith's centre. In quick succession Booth twice missed by inches, and Roose had to handle from the right wing. Crelly was hurt, but soon resumed, and Young made a good though ineffectual attempt to get through. A little later Hillman just kept Settle off the ball as the forwards dashed into goal, and the game was again stopped, this time owing to Sharp being hurt. The winger quickly resumed, however, and the City pressed, Roose fisting out from Booth. Sharp dashed away in promising fashion, and from his centre Abbott headed the wrong side of the post. Soon afterwards Hillman somewhat luckily robbed Sharp, who was running in with the ball at his toes. Everton were attacking with vigour, and Hillman had to use both hands to repel a great shot from Hardman. The City goalkeeper later saved from Taylor, conceding a corner, which was worked away. From another corner Hillman saved grandly from Taylor, and yet another corner brought no result. From a breakaway Balmer was at fault, but Booth missed an open goal. The referee allowed quite a number of fouls to pass unnoticed, and the feeling among the players culminated in Booth knocking down his City namesake for an unfair charge on Balmer. Several of the players got to grips, and a general melee looked probable. Amid shouts off “Send him off” the referee after consulting a linesman, threw the ball up, and allowed the game to proceed. The game proceeded amid uproar, and play degenerated into a scramble. More attention was paid to the man than the ball, and although both sides were to blame the City were the greatest sinners in this respect. The referee did not improve matters by taking to Livingstone for kicking Settle, and then giving a free kick against Everton. Everton tried hard to reduce the score against them, but finished weakly, and failed to score: - Result; Manchester City 2 goals, Everton Nil.
COMMENTS.
It may be said at once that the City deserved their victory. They played with great dash, and their methods were in decided contrast to those of the Everton players, who either fiddled about with the ball until they were robbed or failed to take advantage of good openings. Sharp was, however, an exception and he gave a capital display. He, however, like Young, and Hardman missed a glorious chance. Still, the City also threw away good openings, and Booth in the respect was twice at fault. The City were lucky in securing the first goal, but the second point was the outcome of clever wing play and a fine shot. Play in the first half was a high order, the exchanges being fast throughout, but the second portion, after the first quarter of an hour or so, was a mere scramble. All through the referee was weak, and had no control over the players. Not only did he allow fouls to pass unnoticed, but he several times penalised the wrong side. It was not surprising therefore, to find the players indulging in shady tactics, and the outcome was that Booth, losing his temper, struck the City outside left for foully charging Balmer. Just before this Everton had shown splendid form against odds, but afterwards their combination suffered in the way the players went for each other, and their chances of making a good fight vanished. The home spectators became so demonstrative that a number of police were drawn up at the entrance to the Everton players dressing room, but, fortunately, their services were not required. It was a pity the Everton captain lost his temper, but a strong referee would early in the game have put a stop to any tendency to foul play. Sharp and McDermott were the best of the Everton forwards. Young made many mistake and Settle and Hardman could not overcome the attentions of Frost. Taylor was the best of the halves, while Crelly gave a fine account of himself and was probably the best backs on the field. Manchester were best served by Frost, Hynds, Meredith and Livingstone, but the last named was none too particular in his methods. Both goalkeepers did their work well, and Roose was not to blame for the goals scored against him.

BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 2
April 22, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 32)
This rearranged match took place at Bolton before 4,000 spectators. Everton had the best of the attack in the first half and scored through Thornburn. The second moiety was more evenly contested. Shaw equalising from a corner, and Evans scored Everton's second goal in a similar manner. Towards the close Everton were hard pressed, but Kitchen kept a fine goal. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson half-backs, Roberts, Dilly, Thornburn, Caldwell, and Evans, forwards.

LEAGUE TABLE TOP FIVE
Plyd. W L D F A Pts
1 Everton…………………32 20 7 5 60 34 45
2 Newcastle United………31 21 8 2 65 29 44
3 Manchester City……….32 19 7 6 61 34 44
4 Sheffield United……….33 19 11 2 63 54 40
5 Small Heath…………...32 17 10 5 54 36 39

A MAGNIFICENT MUSIC HALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 22 April 1905
At the of the directors of Olympia there was a private view of the colossal pew music-hall on Thursday afternoon. The magnificent building, the largest of its kind in the kingdom, has been in our already fully described in our columns, but a few additional details may prove of interest. What struck most of the visitors as being the prominent feature of the hall was the elaborate stage mechanism. This is really of a most elaborate and ingenious character, and is calculated to make the stage of even the most modern theatre appear simple and old-fashioned. The Lord Mayor showed his interest in this latest enterprise by attending the private view, and among those present were many city councillors, public officials, and of course all the leading lights of the local theatrical world. The magnificent scheme of decoration has been dealt with, and it need only be that the rich crimson upholstery took the eye admirably.  The electric fighting is most elaborate and the general effect when all the lights are on is certain to be dazzling. The building is entirely isolated, the audience on one side from large and roomy crush entering om is certain to be dazzling, The building on one side from large and roomy rooms, in which the public wait, under cover and off the thoroughfare, thus obviating all confusion and discomfort.  These crash-rooms are open half-an-hour previous to each performance, and are for all patrons paying the ordinary prices. On the opposite side of the building are placed the exits, which number no less than thirty-six, whereby the most crowded house can be emptied in an incredibly short time. Olympia seats comfortably 3,750 persons, and each one has a perfectly uninterrupted view of the stage. An exhibition of the way in which the mechanical devices work attracted keen attention.  At a given signal the large stage was raised and lowered to several levels by hydraulic pressure, and was also slid back, thereby uncovering half thy arena, By processes the management may at a moment’s notice chance the character of the house from a theatre to a circus, or it may partake of both these qualities.  The guests on Thursday were shown the process of affixing the arena mat. This grass like carpet is some 42 feet in diameter and weighs about three tons. Mechanical means also manipulate this, less than one minute being sufficient for it to be rolled or unrolled by the aid of electricity.  When one remembers that hitherto it took twenty-six men to accomplish such a task in twice the time, this contrivance is all the more wonderful. Next was shown the way in which the arena is flooded with water.  Within the space of twenty seconds the arena is flooded with 80,000 gallons of water—a volume which produces quite a respectable lake, and admits of all sorts of aquatic diversions. By pulling a lever, the water is drained off with even greater rapidity and almost within the twinkling of an eye the circus ring is restored to its customary condition.  The remarkable celerity with which these changes were made, no less than the smoothness with they were accomplished, created a great impression on the spectators.  Another agreeable feature about Olympia is the sliding roof.  By means of strong electric appliances the roof may be taken off in warm weather, thus leaving the auditorium delightfully cool and fresh.  Altogether the hall marks an epoch in music halls, not only by reason of its size, but of general appointment. Mechanism has here been brought to fine art, and the stage manager commands not only crowds of performers, but whole batteries of electric and hydraulic plant.  The uniform clothing and liveries of the attendants is at once very striking and handsome.  The management in this, as in all other details, have been lavish. There is quite a levy of small boys in blue Nary uniforms, trimmed with sky blue facings, with silver embroidered jackets, bearing a mass of silver ball buttons. The men attendants in the vestibule, each one a giant, are dressed in full military style, the tunics having Austrian fronts with gold lace on collar and sleeves, as well as the trousers in blue and gold to correspond.  In all, there appeared to be at least sixty uniform attendants, which adds greatly to the brilliant of this new Olympia. The work has been entrusted to and executed by Messrs. Henochsberg and Ellis.  Olympia opens on Monday evening. The licence was handed to the proprietors before the Inspection just alluded to. Mr. Turton, the deputy city surveyor, and Superintendent Thomas, of the Fire Brigade, both expressing satisfaction at the arrangements.

MANCHESTER CITY v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 22 April 1905
There was unusual interest in this fixture at Manchester yesterday by reason of Everton’s aspirations for gaining the championship of the League. It was conceded that if they vanquished the Mancunians they might hope to achieve the coveted distinction and the game was, therefore, eagerly anticipated. Several thousand people travelled from Liverpool to Manchester, and the Hyde-road enclosure was full long before three o’clock, it being estimated that fully 35,000 spectators witnessed the start. There was a slight rearrangement in the Everton ranks owing to Makepeace’s absence. The clever young half back was suffering from a cold, and as a consequence Tom Booth took his place, while Taylor reoccupied the centre half back position, and McDermott was drafted in to partner Sharp. The home team was as advertised. The home captain won the toss, and Everton started against a fairly brisk breeze. The visitors at once advanced on the right, and the ball was sent across to the left wing pair, but McMahon cleared his lines in fine style. The City then took up the attack in tremendous fashion, and Booth running in, gave Roose a warm handful, which the amateur only partially cleared, and Meredith, getting the return, netted the ball. The point, however, counted for nothing, inasmuch as the referee had just ruled Booth offside. Following upon this, the home side played up strenuously, and the Everton defence was subjected to a fierce bombardment, which was finally cleared by Crelley. A nice forward movement by the Evertonians was spoiled through Young being pulled up for an infringement of the offside rule, and a moment later he was unlucky in being dispossessed at that last moment by McMahon. After a spell of fairly even play the City forwards took up the argument, and Booth, heading in, gave Livingstone a glorious opportunity of scoring, but the ex-Liverpool player with an open goal in front of him, shot outside. The City forwards came again in determined fashion, and there was a spell of rather rough play. Meredith was grassed just as he parted with the ball and Turnbull looked very like scoring, where he was bowled over by Booth. The Manchester man was rather severely hurt in the encounter, and he was absent for some time. Meanwhile the Manchester men were showing most determined football, and for a long time they kept the Evertonians penned in their own quarters. As a result of the sustained pressure the backs were at length completely beaten, and Hynds taking a pot-shot scored a good if somewhat lucky goal after the game had been in progress rather less than a quarter of an hour. After this success then home side seemed to ease up for a few moments; but it was not long before they were again paying attention to Roose’s charge. Meredith flashed down the wing, and gave to Livingstone, who put in a glorious centre, but Jones missed the chance of converting it. Returning again to the attack, Hynds tried another long shot-a swift grounder -and this almost scored, Roose saving in really marvellous fashion. So far the play had been all in favour of the home team, but Everton at length got going on the right, and Sharp put in a neat centre. This was taken at short range by Young, who shot strongly; but Hillman was on the alert, and saved brilliantly. The visitors were now beginning to assert themselves, and some pretty footwork resulted in a corner being forced off McMahon. This was well placed by Hardman and Young headed in; but Hillman managed to fist clear. Give and take play followed, and the visitors were perhaps a little more stylish in their methods, but they lacked the dash and determination of the Mancunians, and the home forwards working down in combined order, Livingstone steadied himself and scored with a magnificent ground shot which gave Roose no possible chance. This second success came after half an hour’s play, and it acted as a stimulus to the Evertonians to try and make up the leeway. Hardman dashed down and centred from the corner flag, and Sharp running in shot with tremendous force; but Frost, by an almost superhuman effort, threw himself at the ball and saved an otherwise certain goal. Pressing again, Sharp gave to Settle, and the latter working close in was stalled off at the last moment. Young, however, got the ball, and ought certainly to have scored, when he shot high over the bar. The City exerted further pressure just before the interval, but without additional success, and the score at half-time stood- Manchester City 2 goals, Everton nil.
On resuming the home team at once took up the attack, and the Everton defence was soon hard put to. Meredith on one occasion centred finely, and Turnbull headed just over the bar. Then Booth got down the wing, and shot just outside and a few seconds later the same player had a grand opportunity of putting his side further ahead, but he allowed his namesake to clear. Eventually the Evertonians steadied themselves and attacked systematically, but they were woefully weak in front of goal, and many pretty movements ended in nothing, the home backs almost invariably clearing. Once a promising opening was created for Sharp, but he hesitated to face the burly Hillman and the latter had no difficulty in punting clear. After a time, however, the visitors attacked with redoubled vigour and a long shot from Taylor was just tipped over the bar. From the corner there was a warm bully in front of Hillman, but the City lines were eventually cleared, and Manchester took up the running, Booth missing an open goal. The second half had been in progress half an hour when a rather extraordinary incident happened. Tom Booth deliberately charging his namesake and knocking him over. There were loud cries for the removal of the Everton captain, but the referee, after consulting one of the linesmen, allowed the incident to pass and threw up the ball. This led to a perfect storm of protest, and the game was continued to a running accompaniment of “booing.” Fouls were now frequent and the game from a purely football point of view was completely spoiled. The home side were always more dangerous than their opponents, and a few minutes from time Meredith came within an ace of scoring with a low, swift shot, which passed just outside. Nothing further happened, and at the close Manchester City were left handsome and emphatic victors. Result; Manchester City 2 goals, Everton nil. Teams;-
Everton;- Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Manchester City;- Hillman, goal; McMahon, and Norgrove, backs; Frost, Hynds, and Buchan, half-backs; Meredith, Livingstone, Jones, Turnbull, and Booth, forwards.
Referee. Mr. J.H. Howcroft, Bolton.

TEAM ARRNAGEMENTS FOR THIS DAY
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 22 April 1905
Everton v Woolwich Arsenal
First League Match at Plumstead, Kick-off 3.30
Everton;- Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Booth and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Manchester City Reserve
At Goodison Park; kick-off 3.30
Everton Reserve;- Kitchen, goal; Kerr and Wildman, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and Ritchie, half-backs; Roberts, Dilly, Thorburn, Caldwell and Evans, forwards.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION DIV A
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 22 April 1905
BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVE v  EVERTON RESERVE
The match between Bolton Wanderers Reserve and Everton Reserve took place at Bolton yesterday afternoon, before 4,000 spectators. Everton had the best of the attack in the first half and scored through Thorburn. The second moiety was more evenly contested. Shaw equalised from a corner and Evans scored Everton’s second goal in a similar manner. Towards the close Everton were hard pressed, but Kitchen kept a fine goal. Result Everton Reserve 2 goals, Bolton Wanderers Reserve 1 goal.

A FOOTBALL SENSATION
Liverpool Evening Express - Saturday 22 April 1905
Regrettable Incidents at Manchester.
PLAYERS GET TO GRIPS.
The game between Everton and Manchester City, on the latter's ground, yesterday, was marred by a scene. The referee, Mr. J. H. Howcroft, of Bolton, it is said, allowed quite a number of fouls to pass unnoticed, and the feeling among the players culminated in Booth knocking down his City namesake for an unfair charge on Balmer. Several of the players got to, grips, and a general melee looked probable. Amid shouts of “Send him off,” the referee, after consulting a linesman, threw the ball up, and allowed the game to proceed. The game proceeded amid uproar, and play degenerated into a scramble. More attention was paid to the man than the ball, and although both sides were to blame the City were the greatest sinners in this respect. The referee did not improve matters by talking to Livingstone for kicking Settle, and then giving a free kick against Everton. Everton tried hard to reduce the score against them, but finished weakly, and failed to score. Result:—Manchester City, 2 goals; Everton, nil.

FOOTBALL FEATURES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 22 April 1905
By Bee
The second half at Manchester City’s ground had been in progress half an hour when a rather extraordinary incident happened, Tom Booth deliberately charging his namesake and knocking him over. There were loud cries for the removal of the Everton captain, but the referee after consulting one of the linesmen, allowed the incident to pass and threw up the ball. This led to a perfect storm of protest and the game was continued to a running accompaniment of “booing.” Fouls were now frequent and the game from a purely football point of view was completely spoiled. Balmer was in the act of kicking the ball, after the whistle had gone for a foul, when Booth (of city) charged him (says a Manchester newspaper). Tom Booth immediately rushed up and struck his namesake a blow under the jaw, knocking him down with such force that he fell on top of him. The City man was laid out for a time.
Note
Match report v Woolwich Arsenal and Manchester City missing from Echo and Football Echo

FOOTBALL AND THE UNEMPLOYMENT
Athletic News - Monday 24 April 1905
By Junius
With the laudable object of augmenting the fund for the benefit of the unemployment in Liverpool, a suggestion has been made that the Everton and Liverpool teams should play a match for that purpose.  The clubs have been approached, and Colonel Hall Walker, M.P., has generously offered to provide a Cup and medals.  In order to further advance this proposal the Lord Mayor invited the members of the Unemployed Committee and the directors of the two clubs to luncheon at the Town Hall, but the only result of the meeting was that a deputation consisting of the Lord Mayor and Messrs, Cuff and Watson, the respective secretaries of Everton and Liverpool, was appointed to approach the Football Association for consent to play the match during the close season.  This is where the proceedings stand at present, but I am afraid there is little likelihood of anything definite resulting.  Although the directors of our clubs are undoubtedly willing and anxious to do all in their power to assist such a praiseworthy object, there are serious obstacles in the way that makes a meeting practically impossible at the end of such an arduous season as experienced this winter.  How to obtain a match during the close season is a problem which is practically impossible of solution.  After the end of April the Liverpool players will be scattered all over the country, and they will have finished with training.  Everton will be on the Continent during May, and attractive football further in summer is altogether out of the question.  The times mentioned are inopportune, but it would be far better to arrange a schoolboys’ match, which, if probably engineered, would serve the purpose for the present.  In a conversation with several Liverpool Elementary Schools Football Competition I gathered that they would be perfectly willing to take up this matter, and arrange an attractive schoolboys match for the benefit of the unemployment fund the teachers of Birkenhead and Liverpool should select a team, including the most capable lads from both places to play the winners of the National Shield.  A match with the champion schoolboy team of England would prove an undoubted attraction, and in eleven drawn from the rival Mersey ports would be strong enough to give their opponents a hard fight.  The original idea of the promoters is one which would be best left until next august or September.
EVERTON’S EASTER-ICAL EXHIBITIONS
Two defeats in successive days have practically destroyed Everton’s chances of securing the championship of the League.  For some time past, in fact since the Cup-tie at Nottingham, the Everton players have not been seen to advantage, and as usual, when the pinch comes, they are found wanting.  They are not altogether out of the running for first place, and the defeat of Newcastle makes the championship still an open question.  Everton’s lead of one point may prove useful in the race home, and now that Nottingham Forest are freed from all likelihood of descending to the lower circle, there seems a greater likelihood of Everton repeating their last season’s victory at Nottingham than at one time appeared possible.  But I must candidly admit their recent form does not warrant the assumption that they will ultimately prevail.
EVERTON RESERVES SUCCESSFUL
The Everton second string accounted for Manchester City Reserves by two clear goals.  Caldwell scored in the first half for Everton, and after a clever individual effort, Dilly put on a second.  Everton were the superior side all through, and fully deserved their success.  Their forwards played better than in most of their home games this season, and the custodianship of Edmondson alone prevented the visitors from being more decisively beaten.  Dilly gave a splendid exhibition in the front rank, and his goal was the result of a fine bit of individualism.  Evans also shaped well, whilst Chadwick and Wildman were prominent in the rear division. 

TOO MANY GUNS FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 24 April 1905
By Busy Bee.
Staleness was writ large on the play of Everton. They set the pace, failed to live up to it, and fell.  And the only consolation –poor and annoying it is true- is that had it not been for a wall of fog which shut out the light at Plumstead last November, when with a three goals to one lead, and only a quarter of an hour to play, the proceedings were perforce terminated, they would have bene in possession of a couple of precious points.  It might have been so very different –won; even the partisan must muster up sufficient philosophy to regard the abrupt ending of the November engagement as one of the fortunes of a strenuous war- had Everton played up to their reputation, or even sustained the standard they set up during the earlier part of the match.  They gained the power to decide the issue in their favour long before the interval; they got the lead, they were better and more polished all round, and then they curled up.  It was a poor ending to a sprightly beginning this exhibition of Everton’s and when one reviews the match as a whole, remembering all the little incidents that told, one is bound to say that the Arsenal thoroughly deserved their two goals to one victory.  The Southerners put Finis to their first programme in the First Division in great style, and very few short of 30,000 people left Manor field bubbling with joy.  Popular fancy, based on form, and the knowledge that Woolwich have hardly proved a great side since promotion decreed that the men from the city on the Mersey should win.  They were able to take the field with exactly the same side as that which beat Manchester City on the previous day, whereas the Arsenal, still without Gray, were unable to play McEachrane and Briercliffe.  Bigden was on duty as left half-back back, and Bellamy, a 21-years-old recruit, who has been one of the pillars of the reserve team, was at outside right with Hunter as his partner.  The inclusion of the youngsters, regarded very much as a speculation, was not an inspiring circumstance, but, as events turned out, the “junior” forward was an unqualified success, and was directly responsible for the defeat of the visitors.  Bellamy showed his paces at the opening of the match, and after a couple of his centres –finishes to dashing sprints, had been successfully negotiated by Balmer and Crelley.  Young became chiefly conspicuous for getting offside.  Young is such a rare player, just the very man to lead the attack that the wonder is he does not conquer his unfortunate penchant for getting behind the backs.  If he had not transferred so frequently the probabilities are that Everton would have taken the lead earlier than they did.  Their superiority, especially forward, was most marked.  There was an understanding between the men in front and the half-backs that supplied a great contrast to the unevenness of the Londoners, but what with Young being pulled up by Referee Bye, and only moderate marksmanship, it was not until some twenty-five minutes had gone that Everton put themselves in front.  The goal smacked of the extraordinary, Sharp took full advantage of a temporary lapse on the part of Bigden and Jackson, and, pushing the ball forward until Ashcroft was only a few yards away, shot at a tremendous rate high up.  The ball struck the inside of the cross-bar.  The goalkeeper was hopelessly beaten, and I was confident that the ball had crossed the line.  Sharp, with the rest of his colleagues, expected Mr. Bye to point to the centre, but he was not convinced that the ball had bene inside the net, and had it not been for one of the Arsenal backs rushing up and fisting away the odds are that Everton would have gone away without a point.  However, one of the home defenders could not resist the temptation to play the role of a second goalkeeper, and, refusing the Everton appeal for a goal, the referee gave a penalty kick.  From this Settle scored, and so well did Everton play until the interval, albeit their backs were never too sound, that there seemed little likelihood of Woolwich saving the situation.  However, Satterthwaite plodded along with the ball in front of him, contributing a perfect centre.  Ducat, who had previously missed practically an open goal, found the backs missing, and he had nothing to do with Roose deserted but equalized.  The real fight came in the second half.  One did not see much brilliance, but there was no mistaking the seriousness of the men especially Everton.  The visitors after turning round appeared to be on the highway to victory, but it was like running against a brick wall when they tried to get the better of Jackson.  The fair-haired Scot was always smilingly confident.  He met the fleet-footed Sharp and the wily McDermott cheerfully, and with success, and when his partner, Cross, flattered he was by his side.  Jackson, with Bellamy, turned the tide, and he must have set many people wondering what the Arsenal will do when he crosses over to Leyton.  His half-backs became much better as the game advanced, and Crelley and Balmer less steady.  Bellamy came thundering down the wing, starting from well in his own half, hung on to the ball like a veteran, slipped his half, bamboozled Balmer, and crossed to Ducat.  The young man put Satterthwaite in possession, and like a flash he had the leather into the net.  There was not a great deal of time to spare before the finish, but were the end came Ashcroft had cause for  great anxiety on at least two occasions, while Roose scarcely knew what would happen.  Everton, I must say were disappointing; a mere shadow of what they were when last at Plumstead.  Not always sure in their kicking, indifferent when they got to grips, and seemingly unable to anticipate what the opposition intended to do, Balmer and Crelley were most moderate, and Roose did not get the support he was entitled to from them.  Taylor, in the centre half, worked with tremendous energy, and he had a worthy companion in Abbott.  Booth I have seen play better.  Sharp thrilled now and then.  He invariably showed the red light when in possession, but none of the others were at the top of their form.  Settle, it is true, shot out like a brilliant flash at times, but he was not as I have seen him.  McDermott was only moderate, and Young, as I have said, spoiled his play through his poaching propensities.  Hardman did not do at all badly.  It will be gathered that there was little or no fault to find with the Arsenal defence.  The backs were first class.  Sands was better in defence than in attack, Bigden played a rear good game, and Dick never gave anything away.  The improvement was forward.  Ducat is likely to be of great service.  The star artist was Bellamy.  Hunter fed him assiduously.  Satterthwaite was good and then bad, while Templeton did not obtrude himself too often.  Woolwich Arsenal; Ashcroft; Cross, Jackson; Dicks, Sands, Bigden; Bellamy, Hunter, Ducat, Satterthwaite, and Templeton.  Everton; Roose; Balmer, Crelley; Booth (Captain), Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; F. Bye, Sheffield. 

WOOLWICH ARSENAL 2 EVERON 1
April 24, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
ANOTHER REVERSE
Woolwich is not a pleasant place, and an afternoon's sojourn there was fraught with disaster on Saturday for Everton for Everton, who brought good weather and a bad record from Manchester, and left with the latter still further besmirched. When the teams first met in November, Everton were romping home to the spirited tune of three goals to one. In the home fixture at Goodison-park a fortnight ago this was reduced to the slower measure of a goal to love, and on Saturday the song of victory was on the other side. It is only necessary to recent this three-fold experience, however, to show how hard was the luck which dogged Everton's footsteps, and at a moment when a point probably means the honour of championship it is natural to call attention to the hardship of the rule regulating re-played matches in totally ignoring the points of the unfinished game. Under the circumstances Sunderland's victory at Newcastle was an act of poetic justice to Everton, and it only remains for the toffees to take advantage of this unlooked for result by chewing up Notts Forest to-day. The victory was a splendid item for the foot of the Arsenal's programme and completely removed the nasty impression left the week before by the wooden spoonists.
THE GAME OF THE WOOLWICH SEASON
Everton were said to be a trifle jaded after their misfortune in Manchester and the railway journey south, and the services of precisely the same team that did duty on Good Friday were relied upon. The men, however, looked sprightly enough, and the contest was keen from beginning to end. In the opinion of local critics no faster or more exciting game had been played on the Arsenal ground during the season. Woolwich, having lost the toss, kicked off, and almost immediately Everton assumed a threatening aspect. Young with the first of many praiseworthy individual efforts, had worked through to a likely position for his shot when he was tipped. Fouls were prolific, and it was from a penalty some time later the Everton drew first blood. The incidents leading up to this goal were somewhat sensational, Sharp had picked up a good pass from McDermott and sent in at lighting speed, the ball striking the cross bar, and dropping in the mouth of the goal. The visitors claimed to have scored, but the referee decided against them, and a scrimmage ensuing one of the Arsenal men handled. A Penalty kick was given and Settle without a vestige of uncertainty found the net.
ARSENAL RETURN THE COMPLIMENT.
Up to the point the fortunes of the game had been peculiarly even. Each side had quite breathless escapes, the ball on several occasions travelling either over or outside the desired opening. Little surprise was occasioned when Ducat, receiving from a good centre by Templeton, beat Roose with a shot which left no chance for a save.
THE FINISHING TOUCH.
Having drawn one plum apiece, the teams crossed over, and the second half proved an almost exact replica in general features of the first-play continuing fast and the ball turning with wonderful rapidity the hopes of the spectator to anxiety and anxiety to hope. It seemed as though the result was to fairly indicate the character of the game, for until five minutes before the close of play the half-time score stood unaltered. Then a hope was suddenly realised. Scattethwaite receiving after some good combined work by Bellamy, Hunter, and Ducat, and overpowering Roose with a magnificent shot high up in the corner of the net. This proved to be the last event of any importantance, and the crowd dispersed with satisfaction.
ANY BODY'S GAME.
As the game can only be described as anybody's, there is no need to apologies for the Evertonians. Although not quite as ready and successful on one or, two occasions in front of goal as is their wont, the forwards played a good game throughout. Young had particular hard lines more than once in not doing the necessary after excellent preliminary performances, and he was well supported on the wings. The halves were usually alert and effective, and Balmer and Crelly always managed to make capital out of rushes, which were not planned with discretion. Roose frequently had to negotiate with smartness and firmness, and without a successful combination of his qualities Everton would have found, themselves in a much bigger minority. Teams: - Woolwich Arsenal: - Ashcroft, goal, Cross, and Jackson, backs, Dick, Sand, and Ducat, half-backs, Hunter, Bellemy, Templeton, Scatterwaites, and Linwoody, forwards. Everton: - Roose, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.

LEAGUE TABLE TOP FIVE
Plyd. W L D F A Pts
1 Everton…………………33 20 8 5 61 36 45
2 Newcastle United………32 21 9 2 66 32 44
3 Manchester City……….32 19 7 6 61 34 44
4 Sheffield United……….33 19 11 2 63 54 40
5 Small Heath……………33 17 11 5 54 37 39

EVERTON RESERVES 2 MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 0
April 24, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 33)
The second string of Manchester City appeared at Goodison-park on Saturday, and Everton Reserves were given an opportunity of avenging the defeat of their seniors on the previous day. They succeeded in reversing Friday's result but had all the chances been utilised the score in their favour would have been considerably more than 2-0. Right from the start, Everton attacked. The forwards showed decided improvements up in recent displays and, well backed up by the halves, they gave the City defenders plenty of work. Edmondson kept a good goal, and although Everton had considerably the best of the opening half only one goal was scored. Caldwell obtained this, but it was only weak finishing to otherwise good forward work, which prevented Everton from establishing a useful lead. In the second half Everton again held the upper hand, and Dilly added a second goal in brilliant fashion after a grand run. One of the visitors retired hurt, and the City, playing one back were able to prevent their goal being captured again. The visitors custodian dealt with some good shots in clever fashion, but the home forwards should have given him more work to do. Kitchen had a fairly easy time throughout, but he was lucky on one occasion when he fisted the ball against the upright, the leather going outside. For Everton, Dilly, Evans, Chadwick, and Wildman all did well, the visitors being best represented by Edmondson, Christie, Dearden, and Bannister. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson half-backs, Roberts, Dilly, McLoughlin, Evans, and Caldwell, forwards.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 24 April 1905
It is scarcely surprising that Everton at Plumstead on Saturday failed to make headway in their quest for the League championship. The extraordinary match at Manchester on Good Friday doubtless had the effect of unsettling the minds of certain of the players. The regrettable incident in which that usually cool and collected player. Tom Booth, was the principal figure, had not been forgotten, and it was almost out of the question that, after the long journey to Woolwich, the Evertonians could produce their finest form. As events turned out, Everton failed to seize the opportunities which came their way in the first half of the game. They, it is true, opened the score by means of a penalty kick, but numerous chances were absolutely cast aside, and with Woolwich Arsenal improving marvellously as the game proceeded, the Gunners eventually ran out fairly easy victors by 2 goals to 1. Of course, the loss of two valuable points at this particular interesting stage of the competition is to be deplored, and when all is said and done one cannot help sympathising with Everton, especially in view of the fact that in November last they were leading by 3 goals to 1 when, ten minutes from time, the referee stopped the game on account of fog. An impartial crowd, numbering close upon 30,000 people, witnessed a hard, though not an altogether scientific exposition. Everton relied upon the team which suffered disaster the previous day ay Hyde-road, and from the manner in which they started there was every hope that they would repeat their performance when last seen on the Arsenal enclosure. Young opened out the game, as he can do so ably when in the mood; but, unfortunately for his side, his shooting was lamentably weak, and his failure in this respect seemed to influence even expert shots like Settle and Hardman, who practically missed open goals Sharp from outset delighted the spectators with his brilliant work on the wing. Although Everton opened the score with a penalty goal obtained by Settle, the credit really belonged to the speedy outside right. After racing down the field as the result of a pretty sequence of passing, in which Taylor, Settle, and Young participated, a swift shot from Sharp struck the under part of the bar, and appeared to drop over the line. The referee, however, discarded all appeals for a goal. Meanwhile Sands fisted the ball down from Ashcroft’s clearance and retributive justice was meted out to Everton when Settle defeated the custodian from the eighteen yards line. Under ordinary circumstances this ought to have meant the winning goal for Everton. Unhappily, the backs were none to safe, and this was a weakness which was not lost sight of by the Arsenal attack. From a throw in at the half-way line the ball was seized by Templeton, who parted to Satterthwaite. The latter defeating Balmer with the greatest ease, afforded a splendid opportunity to Ducat, who gave Roose no possible chance of saving. With the wind against them in the second half, the League leaders enjoyed a fair share of the play, but their efforts rarely suggested the probability of goals accruing. On the other hand the Arsenal players whenever they got away invariably looked like scoring. This was due as much to the latitude allowed them by the Everton defence as to the ability which they displayed. For once the visiting halves were by no means as alert or strenuous as has been the case during the greater part of the season, and the slackness in this respect was more than emphasised by the inability of either Balmer or Crelly to rise to the occasion, while Roose was scarcely in his happiest mood. Just when a drawn game seemed likely, a novice to First League football, in the person of Bellamy, initiated a movement which brought about the downfall of the Everton goal, the scorer being the ex-Liverpool player Satterthwaite. It was a goal which was splendidly worked for, and meant a loss to Everton of two points, which, had they been forthcoming. Might have rendered the championship for the premier club of the city almost secure. The closing stages of the match witnessed a rather unique rearrangement of the Everton attack. For some reason or other Young and Hardman changed places, and it was to those who have followed the Everton team throughout the season rather amusing to find the plucky outside left operating in the centre forward position, for which as far as is known, he had never employed any aptitude. The outstanding figure among the forwards was undoubtedly Sharp, and, had more support been accorded him, especially in the earlier stages of the game, Everton’s position must have been established. McDermott too, controlled the ball well, and was a success, but the work at the other end of the line was uneven. As has been indicated, the display of the half backs might easily have been improved upon, and one missed the deft touches of Makepeace-who, by the way is suffering from an ulcerated throat -and more particularly his facility for rendering assistance at times when the backs exhibited signs of weakness. For Woolwich, Ashcroft kept a capital goal and at full back Jackson played a great game throughout. The halves, though not of the brilliant type stuck to their opponents in most tenacious fashion, and among the forwards Templeton was in great form on the extreme left, while doubtless more will be heard of Bellamy as he gains experience. The Everton players last night travelled to Nottingham in readiness for their last League match against the old established Forest Club.

NOTTS FOREST v  EVERTON
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 24 April 1905
LEAGUE FIRST DIVISION
A MODERATE DISPLAY
POINTS FOR EVERTON
Everton wound up their League season today at Nottingham. At one time it was thought that the match might have settled not only the League championship, but also the question of the Forest’s position next season. However, Bury have kindly relieved any anxiety which Notts Forest might have had, but still this match was important to Everton seeing that it was their last chance of acquiring points to keep them in the running with Newcastle United and Manchester City for the championship. The Everton players travelled from London yesterday afternoon, and stayed at the Victoria Hotel. Three alterations had to be made in the team.- Roose, Crelly, and Young being absent owing to injuries. The consequence was that young Balmer, Scott and McLoughlin came into the side. The Forest had their best available side the Forest had their best available side.
The players lined up as follows;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and R. Balmer, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Settle, McLoughlin, and Hardman, forwards.
Notts Forest; Linacre, goal; Craig and Dudley, backs; Forman, Henderson, and Timmins, half-backs; Davies, Shearman, Lessons, Morris (captain), and Spouncer, forwards. Referee Mr. T. Armitt.
The Forest won the toss, and Settle kicked off against a pretty stiff breeze. Everton were the first to show up, but the game had hardly been started when Booth received a bit of a shaking. From the free kick the Everton forwards went for goal in praiseworthy style, and twice the Forest goal luckily escaped, once from Settle and the next time from Sharp, who forced a corner off Dudley. The pressure, however, was not maintained, and by pretty footwork the Forest attack seriously troubled the Everton defenders. They compelled Abbott to grant a corner, and from this Morris drove in at terrific pace, Scott tipping the ball over the bar in great style. This corner led to further pressure by the Reds. Young Balmer tried hard to get the ball through a ruck of legs, but he failed, and the tensing was only relieved when Forman shot just over the crossbar. The wind bothered Everton a good deal, and the play perhaps naturally was in favour of the Reds, whose forward work was particularly smart. Spouncer in attempting a centre placed behind, and the same player a moment later was palpably offside when he fastened upon a pass from Forman. Scott had to run out to a long shot from Henderson, and then Booth was applauded for a singularly clever clearance when Morris apparently had the goal at his mercy. So far the game had pleased the crowd, who numbered about eighteen thousand. Everton could make little impression on the home defence, and once Lessons, by pretending to play the game, trickily left an opening for Morris, who brought Scott to his knees with a fast shot. Taylor opened out the play, but Settle got offside, and again the Reds pressed Everton hard. There was a hesitancy, however, when in the vicinity of goal, consequently Scott was rarely troubled with anything like a difficult shot. By way of diversion Hardman raced down the wing and a fine dropping centre was fisted out by Linacre. They were soon defending again, and with the backs not too safe it was rather remarkable how the Everton goal escaped capture. Suddenly the Evertonians changed the scene. They made play on the right, and Sharp after taking the ball down beautifully passed it back. Settle could not quite reach it, but McLoughlin was at hand, and beat Linacre with a shot which gave the custodian no chance. Immediately afterwards the Forest goal was almost captured as the result of a similar movement initiated by Sharp. This time Linacre was better supported, and the ball was got away. Everton, however, were now playing in more like their best form. Neat work by Abbott placed Hardman on the go, and the amateur flashed in a centre, which Linacre caught and threw away. Sharp was injured in a collision with Dudley, but though he limped a little he quickly resumed. Forest recovered somewhat, and invaded Everton half, but their forwards were still in a hesitating mood. It was by no means a game to grow enthusiastic over, there being frequent mistakes on both sides. Scott sent out to Shearman, and only just managed to divert his shot, at the expense of a fruitless corner, offside on the part of McLoughlin neutralised otherwise good work by the visiting left wing, and at the other and Spouncer headed right into Scott’s hands. The quality of the play if anything deteriorated, and it was not surprising that the crowd encouraged the favourites to play up. Craig was penalised for an unfair charge, and although young Balmer from the free kick landed the ball in the goal mouth. Everton failed to turn it to account. The ball was in the Forest half when the interval arrived.
Half-time.- Everton 1, Notts Forest 0
THE SECOND HALF
In the second half the Forest played very pluckily against wind and sun and gave Scott a great deal of work to do, but he saved from Morris and Frank Foreman. After some tricky play by McDermott and McLoughlin, Settle away to the other end and the centre forward getting his foot to the ball beat Linacre from long range with a beautifully judged shot which the goalkeeper never saw. Sharp made strenuous efforts to increase the lead of the visitors, several times beating Timmins for speed.
Final Result. Everton 2 Notts Forest 0

EVERTON v CLIFTONVILLE
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 24 April 1905
At Goodison Park before 5,000 spectators in fine weather. Everton kicked off, and had the best of the opening stages, but they did not over exert themselves, and the Irish backs had little difficulty in clearing. Cliftonville got away and had a goal disallowed for offside, and then Everton pressed, Dilly also having a goal negatived. Afterwards, however, Dilly scored with a fine shot, and at half-time led by a goal to nothing.
Final -Everton Res 1, Cliftonville nil.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST v  EVERTON
Nottingham Evening Post - Monday 24 April 1905
No so many days ago the fate of the Forest depended absolutely on the result of the return match with Everton at the City Ground, this afternoon, but the defeat which the Villa administered to Bury, left the “Reds” perfectly safe for another term in the league competition. It was a perilously narrow escape, and though the contest was robbed to a great extent of the vital importance which would have attached to it had the circumstances been otherwise, Forest, relieved of the anxiety which has prevailed in the camp for many weeks now, were bound to make a determined effort to improve their impoverished record and finish the season decently. Everton, on the other hand, were in desperate need of points if they were to retain any chance at all of gaining the championship, the defeats which they suffered at Manchester and Woolwich having almost wrecked their hopes in that direction. Forest had quietly and carefully prepared for the match, and turned out fresh after their fortnight’s rest from league football. The Goodison Park club had experienced a very exacting Easter programme, and with Roose, Crelly, and Young all on the injured list, several alterations were necessitated in the side compared with that which lost at Woolwich. Scott was substituted in goal, R. Balmer came in at left back, Settle officiated as centre, and McLoughlin was given the inside left berth. Forest were strongly represented, Frank Forman being prevailed upon to assist the old once more, while Morris made a welcome re-appearance. The centre forward position lay between Niblo and Lessons, and the management decided to give the latter the preference. It was a fine afternoon, though a trifle keen, and there was a strong breeze blowing in the direction of the railway end. Spectators mustered in good force, and when the players turned out there would be fully 12,000 people present. Morris won the toss, and secured what advantage the wind conferred, but Everton were the first to attack, and following a free kick, Craig did well to get in the way of shots from Settle and Sharp though he conceded a corner in intercepting the latter. From the flag kick Lessons appeared to handle, but Mr. Armitt ignored the appeal for a penalty, and Hardman subsequently shot over from close range. A sturdy effort by Davis changed the scene but Booth gave a corner in dealing with his centre as Spouncer dashed in, and though the flag kick was not by any means well placed Morris worked into position and got in a tremendous drive which Scott pushed over the bar with difficulty. From the succeeding corner Forman went inches too high with a fast half volley, but the ”Reds” maintained a steady pressure, and Spouncer hooked behind with all his forwards massing in front. Off-side against the outside left checked another promising advance, and Booth effected a brilliant clearance when Davis middled with fine judgement. Scott had one or two long shots to dispose of, but none of them occasioned him any trouble, and when at last the visitors moved forward, Dudley twice tackled Settle resolutely, and punted well out of danger. A taking effort by the home inside trio furnished Morris with a chance, bit Scott dropped all fours to a beautiful drive from the Forest captain, and threw away. Off-side against Settle beat Everton back, and though they returned in spirited fashion a moment later Dudley brought off another dashing clearance. Taylor and R. Balmer held Shearman up between them when he was careering right through, and accepting a neat pass from Abbott, Hardman sprinted down to lift in a capital centre to which Linacre applied both fists, Forman completing the clearance. When Spouncer attempted to force a passage. W. Balmer lifted the ball right out of the enclosure. Forest, however, were having slightly the best of matters, and Scott had to cover a bad mis-kick by R. Balmer right in front of goal. The game was being contested at an exhilarating pace, and on one occasion when the visiting forwards swept down Craig relieved splendidly. A brilliant dash and centre by Sharp found the “Reds” defence in difficulties and after Settle had a try and missed the ball completely, McLoughlin drove it into the net when the game had been in progress 23 minutes. This success stimulated the visitors to renewed effort, and in the course of another desperate attack Linacre gave a corner in trapping a shot from McDermott almost on the post. Mr. Armitt refusing a strenuous and perfectly reasonable appeal for off-side. A second flag kick followed, but after an exciting scrimmage McDermott shot a foot wide. Sharp was hurt in a collision with Dudley, but quickly recovered, and Spouncer and Lessons headed a raid on the Everton goal, as the outcome of which Shearman headed a trifle wide. Forest made poor use of a freekick in midfield, and when sharp rushed clear and centred with excellent judgment, Craig just robbed Settle in time. A moment afterwards, the “Reds” moved down in line, and Spouncer middled neatly, but Scott saved his charge miraculously as Shearman dashed in to convert. The keeper was injured in the effort, but soon continued, and though operations were almost entirely confined to the Everton half the home side met with a very stubborn resistance. Off-side twice drove the visitors back, and in the course of another determined attack by the foresters, Spouncer headed right into Scott’s hands. Towards the interval the “Reds” worked strenuously for the equalising point, but Taylor dispossessed Lessons when he was favourably placed, and from a break away on the Everton left Linacre had to save a long shot by Settle. Craig was penalised for a perfectly legitimate charge on Hardman, but the visitors made no capital out of the free kick, and Craig’s head came in very useful later when Sharp corkscrewed his way though and dropped in a lofty centre. The interval then arrived with the score;-
Everton 1 Nottingham Forest 0
The second half opened tamely and slightly in favour for Forest, but Henderson shot wretchedly when admirably placed, and Taylor cleared well as the home forwards swept back. R. Balmer hurt himself in tackling Davies and when he resumed the “Reds” attacked vigorously, but Lessons had the worst of luck with a hard drive from close range which struck the post and glanced out. At the other end Linacre caught a centre from Sharp and cleared, and Davies came into prominence for a capital dribble, but Taylor pushed him just outside the penalty area, and Scott kicked away from the free kick. A fine individual effort by Sharp brought a corner out of Dudley, but the flag kick was cleared, and Settle shot very wildly when a weak return by the same back furnished him with an opening. Everton remained on the aggressive, but Taylor shot a foot too high from a well placed corner, and when Morris and Shearman tried to force a passenger they were outnumbered and overwhelmed. Lessons worked back on the left, however, and Spouncer got in a magnificent low shot which Scott fisted out on his knees, Frank Forman eventually shooting a foot too high. Forest were playing much the better football hereabouts, and W. Balmer was obliged to concede a corner with Morris working into position. Spouncer dropped the flag kick right into the pack, and Forman headed in, but Scott saved brilliantly. Everton retaliated in lively fashion, but Craig relieved and a characteristic effort by Shearman saw Spouncer screw much too high. The visitors rushed back a moment later, and taking a fine centre from the left on the run. Settle scored a second goal with a fast half-volley, nineteen minutes after the restart, the ball passing high into the corner of the net well out of Linacre’s reach. This further reverse seemed to take a lot of the sting out of Forest, and Everton maintained a steady pressure for a while, but the football, generally speaking, was very scrappy. A capital individual effort by Hardman raised some enthusiasm, but his parting shot flashed into the side net, and when Morris tried to set his forwards moving Taylor nipped in and cleared. The home captain got his ankle rapped when he tried conclusions with W. Balmer, but continued limping, and for the most part the “Reds” were acting entirely on the defensive. Off-side against Hardman brought relief but it was only temporary, and Everton were soon forcing matters again to some purpose. McDermott shot through on one occasion when the whistle had sounded for off-side against Sharp, and then Craig overhauled the inside right as he was heading for goal, and cleared admirably. Linacre applied both fists to a fast rising shot from Hardman, and saved again when Sharp headed in from close range. Shearman worked hard to change the scene, but R. Balmer legged him down as he was sprinting through, and then cleared the free kick. Lessons was penalised and cautioned for a foul on McDermott, and with practically all the interest gone out of the game, spectators began to leave the ground in hundreds. In the closing stages the “Reds” made one vigorous onslaught, but Shearman could only find the side net, and Everton outplayed the Forest without adding to their score until the final whistle sounded with the result;- Everton 2 Nottingham Forest 0
Players;-
Nottingham Forest.- H.J. Linacre (goal), C.T. Craig, W, Dudley (backs), F. Forman, G. Henderson, S. Timmins  (half-backs), T.O. Davies, W. Shearman (right wing), F. Lessons (centre), A.G. Morris (captain), and W.A. Spouncer (left wing).
Everton.- W. Scott (goal), W. Balmer, R. Balmer (backs), T. Booth (captain), W. Taylor, A. Abbott (half-backs), J. Sharp, McDermott (right wing), J. Settle (centre), W. McLoughlin, and H.P. Hardman (left wing).
Referee; Mr. T. Armitt, of Leeds.

LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP
Liverpool Echo - Monday 24 April 1905
TODAY’S DECISIVE GAMES
EVERTON STARTLE THE FOREST
NOTTS FOREST v  EVERTON
EVERTON FINISH UP IN GREAT FORM
In spite of their two reverses at Manchester and Woolwich, the Everton team were still at the head of the League table this morning. Whether they would succeed in retaining that position and carrying off the championship was, however, fraught with considerable doubt, and depended mainly on what Newcastle United and Manchester City achieve in their concluding engagements. The Evertonians travelled from London last evening, and stayed overnight at the Victoria Hotel, Nottingham. Their final engagement was with Notts Forest this afternoon and a huge holiday crowd put in an appearance. The weather, though cold, was fine, and there was every prospect of a rousing, good game. There were three changes in the Everton ranks- Roose, Crelly, and Young all being absentees. Scott appeared between the sticks. Robert Balmer partnered his brother, and McLoughlin came in to partner Hardman, Settle taking the centre position. The Forest were not at full strength, and the teams lined out as follow;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and R. Balmer, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Settle, McLoughlin, and Hardman, forwards.
Notts.- Linacre, goal; Craig and Dudley, backs; Forman, Henderson, and Timmins, halves; Davies, Shearman, Lessons, Morris, and Spouncer, forwards. Referee- T. Armitt.
The home team won the toss, and Everton started in the face of a fairly strong wind. They got down at once, and Settle shot. Linacre cleared but only partially and Sharp, rushing, put in a clinker, but the ball cannoned off Craig, and went over the line. Following upon this the hone forwards made ground in business like fashion, and the Everton backs were very shaky. A couple of corners were forced, and these led to exciting bullies in front of Scott. Morris put in a magnificent shot, which the Irish international just managed to tip over the bar, and a few moments later Forman from long range sent the leather skimming over. The game was going distinctly in favour of the homesters, who with the wind at their backs exerted considerable pressure, and it was only the vigilance of the half-backs that kept then out. Added to this, the shooting of the Foresters was rather wild, Spouncer on one occasion having a glorious opportunity when he lobbed the ball over the bar. Play was of rather a scrambling side gained any material advantage, though the Foresters tried several long-pot shots which Scott easily dealt with. A break away by the home left looked extremely dangerous and Morris was just about to shoot when Booth dispossession him. Keeping up the pressure, the home team gave the Everton defence a very warm time of it, and a long ground shot from Morris brought Scott to his knees. The Forest returned immediately, and Foreman was threading his way through when Abbott chipped in and sent the leather spinning towards the centre line. Taylor then gave his forwards possession, and Hardman tried to get off, but Craig was too smart for him, and cleared very cleverly. The little amateur, however, returned to the attack, and racing almost to the corner flag, he put in a glorious dropping shot, which Linacre fisted clear. More give and take play followed, both sides indulging in long kicking, which was more or less purposeless. The home quintet were the first to steady themselves again, and Lessons had a nice opening, but his shot lacked sting, and Scott had no trouble in clearing. The visitors at last worked their way down on the right, and some clever work by Sharp ended in the cricketer passing to McLoughlin, who nipped in past Craig and scored an excellent goal. This success naturally gave the Evertonians considerable heart, and the 18,000 spectators were now treated to some very pretty footwork. Hardman ran down and centred strongly but Linacre got to the ball and cleared before Settle could head it in. The visitors were now doing all the pressing, and a sustained assault ended in McDermott shooting outside. A few moments later, Dudley and Sharpe collided, with the result that the Evertonian hurt his leg, but he was speedily himself again. A forward movement by the home left wing pair looked promising, especially when Morris beat W. Balmer, but Robert rushed across to his brother’s help, and cleared his line with a huge punt. The next movement of interest was a sprint by Sharp, who showed Timmins a clean pair of heels; but at the last moment he was stopped by Dudley. The left took up the attack in turn, and again W. Balmer was shaky, but the left full back succeeded in clearing. The pressure, however, was maintained, and Shearman looked certain of scoring when Scott dashed out and cleared at the expense of a corner, and slight damage to himself. Towards the interval, Everton exerted further pressure, and Hardman made play, but McLoughlin was obviously offside when he shot, the Forest forwards returned to the attack, and from a pass by Lessons, Spouncer headed the ball into Scott’s arms. More scrambling work followed, Everton having slightly the best of the argument, but their shooting was very erratic, McDermott and Settle both missing chances.
Half-time; Everton 1, Forest nil.
In the second half Forest opened very strongly, but Scott saved marvellously on two occasions and gradually wearing their opponents down, Everton scored a second goal at the end of nineteen minutes through Settle, who took a sharp pass from the left wing on the run, and planted a fine shot hot volley into the top corner of the net. After this Forest tried desperately hard to reduce the lead, but play for the most part was very scrappy.
Final.- Everton 2 goals, Notts Forest nil.

NOTTS FOREST v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 25 April 1905
In spite of their two reverses at Manchester and Woolwich, the Everton team were still at the head of the League table this morning. Whether they would succeed in retaining that position and carrying off the championship was, however, fraught with considerable doubt, and depended mainly on what Newcastle United and Manchester City achieve in their concluding engagements. The Evertonians travelled from London last evening, and stayed overnight at the Victoria Hotel, Nottingham. Their final engagement was with Notts Forest this afternoon and a huge holiday crowd put in an appearance. The weather, though cold, was fine, and there was every prospect of a rousing, good game. There were three changes in the Everton ranks- Roose, Crelly, and Young all being absentees. Scott appeared between the sticks. Robert Balmer partnered his brother, and McLoughlin came in to partner Hardman, Settle taking the centre position. The Forest were not at full strength, and the teams lined out as follow;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and R. Balmer, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Settle, McLoughlin, and Hardman, forwards.
Notts.- Linacre, goal; Craig and Dudley, backs; Forman, Henderson, and Timmins, halves; Davies, Shearman, Lessons, Morris, and Spouncer, forwards. Referee- T. Armitt.
The home team won the toss, and Everton started in the face of a fairly strong wind. They got down at once, and Settle shot. Linacre cleared but only partially and Sharp, rushing, put in a clinker, but the ball cannoned off Craig, and went over the line. Following upon this the hone forwards made ground in business like fashion, and the Everton backs were very shaky. A couple of corners were forced, and these led to exciting bullies in front of Scott. Morris put in a magnificent shot, which the Irish international just managed to tip over the bar, and a few moments later Forman from long range sent the leather skimming over. The game was going distinctly in favour of the homesters, who with the wind at their backs exerted considerable pressure, and it was only the vigilance of the half-backs that kept then out. Added to this, the shooting of the Foresters was rather wild, Spouncer on one occasion having a glorious opportunity when he lobbed the ball over the bar. Play was of rather a scrambling side gained any material advantage, though the Foresters tried several long-pot shots which Scott easily dealt with. A break away by the home left looked extremely dangerous and Morris was just about to shoot when Booth dispossession him. Keeping up the pressure, the home team gave the Everton defence a very warm time of it, and a long ground shot from Morris brought Scott to his knees. The Forest returned immediately, and Foreman was threading his way through when Abbott chipped in and sent the leather spinning towards the centre line. Taylor then gave his forwards possession, and Hardman tried to get off, but Craig was too smart for him, and cleared very cleverly. The little amateur, however, returned to the attack, and racing almost to the corner flag, he put in a glorious dropping shot, which Linacre fisted clear. More give and take play followed, both sides indulging in long kicking, which was more or less purposeless. The home quintet were the first to steady themselves again, and Lessons had a nice opening, but his shot lacked sting, and Scott had no trouble in clearing. The visitors at last worked their way down on the right, and some clever work by Sharp ended in the cricketer passing to McLoughlin, who nipped in past Craig and scored an excellent goal. This success naturally gave the Evertonians considerable heart, and the 18,000 spectators were now treated to some very pretty footwork. Hardman ran down and centred strongly but Linacre got to the ball and cleared before Settle could head it in. The visitors were now doing all the pressing, and a sustained assault ended in McDermott shooting outside. A few moments later, Dudley and Sharpe collided, with the result that the Evertonian hurt his leg, but he was speedily himself again. A forward movement by the home left wing pair looked promising, especially when Morris beat W. Balmer, but Robert rushed across to his brother’s help, and cleared his line with a huge punt. The next movement of interest was a sprint by Sharp, who showed Timmins a clean pair of heels; but at the last moment he was stopped by Dudley. The left took up the attack in turn, and again W. Balmer was shaky, but the left full back succeeded in clearing. The pressure, however, was maintained, and Shearman looked certain of scoring when Scott dashed out and cleared at the expense of a corner, and slight damage to himself. Towards the interval, Everton exerted further pressure, and Hardman made play, but McLoughlin was obviously offside when he shot, the Forest forwards returned to the attack, and from a pass by Lessons, Spouncer headed the ball into Scott’s arms. More scrambling work followed, Everton having slightly the best of the argument, but their shooting was very erratic, McDermott and Settle both missing chances.
Half-time; Everton 1, Forest nil.
In the second half Forest opened very strongly, but Scott saved marvellously on two occasions and gradually wearing their opponents down, Everton scored a second goal at the end of nineteen minutes through Settle, who took a sharp pass from the left wing on the run, and planted a fine shot hot volley into the top corner of the net. After this Forest tried desperately hard to reduce the lead, but play for the most part was very scrappy. This indeed, had been the fault all through, though the home team were much the worse offenders. On two occasions the Forest forwards came perilously near lowering Scott’s charge, but wildness in shooting saved the Everton goal, and the game resulted in a 2 to nil victory for the visitors. It was by no means a good exhibition of the Association code, and the most that can be said is that Everton were the better of two very mediocre teams.  Result; Everton 2 goals, Notts Forest nil.

EVERTON WIND UP THE SEASON WITH VICTORY
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 25 April 1905
By Bee
Everton wound up the season with a victory and a marked improvement on preceding matches. Their record as compared with the previous year is as follows;-
1903-4 Played 34, won 19, lost 10, drawn 5, Forward 59, Against 32, Points 43
1904-5 Played 34, won 21, lost 8, drawn 5, Forward 63, Against, Points 47
A year ago they were third. Where they will finish this season is hard to say, because until Saturday next no one can possibly tell. Had they managed to win at Woolwich there would have been a problem of a less serious degree, as it is, we have intense antagonism from Manchester City and Newcastle United. City have to play Aston Villa at Birmingham on Saturday and Newcastle are due at Middlesbrough and at Sheffield against the Wednesday. The table as it stands is as follows;-
Everton (3) Play 34 Won 21, Lost 8, Drawn 5, For 63, Against 36, Points 47
Manchester City (2) Played 33, won 20, lost 7, drawn 6, Forward 64 Against 34, Points 46
Newcastle United (4) Played 32, Won 21, Lost 9, Drawn 2, For 66, Against 32, Points 44
And never before has there been such a keen contest right up to the finish-not even in the year when Liverpool were beaten in the last stride by Aston Villa by 5-0. The Everton season, from a retrospective point of view, will be dealt with next week. It has been in every direction a much more successful one than last year. The wins have been more numerous, the goals far more numerous, and goals against fewer.
Yesterday at the fateful Nottingham Forest ground, where our cup hopes were dashed to the ground, Everton won by 2 goals to nil. Roose was thrown on his back at Woolwich so he had to give up the idea of playing-much to his regret. Robert Balmer came into the team for Crelley. I don’t think Robert Balmer has been with the first team once when they have lost. McLoughlin filled the duties of inside left, and (in reply to a medical humourist, who has written me) McDermott was playing, but the remedy so successful and immediate for gastritis I am sorry I am not acquainted with. McLoughlin and Settle got the goals, and Settle made a fairly efficient centre forward. At times the visitors played the perfect passing game, and followed it up with stinging shots. Linacre had plenty to do, and came out of the ordeal successfully.

NOTTS FOREST 0 EVERTON 2
April 26 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Everton wound up their League season yesterday at Nootingham. At one time it was though that the match might have settled not only the League championship, but also the question of the Forest's position next season. however, Bury have kindly relieved any anxiety which Notts Forest might have had, but still this match was important to Everton seeing that it was their last chance of acquiring points to keep them in the running with Newcastle United and Manchester City for the championship. The Everton players travelled from London on Sunday afternoon, and stayed at the Victoria Hotel. Three alterations had to be made in the team- Roose, Crelly, and Young being absent owing to injuries. The consequence was that R.Balmer, Scott and McLoughlin came into the side. The Forest had their best available side. The players lined up as follows:- Everton:- Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and R.Balmer, backs, Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Settle, McLoughlin, and Hardman, forwards. Notts Forest:- Linacre, goal, Craig, and Dudley,, backs, Forman, Henderson, and Timmins, half-backs, Davies, Shearman, Lessons, Morris, and Spouncer, forwards. Referee T.Armitt. The Forest won the toss, and Settle kicked off against a pretty stiff breeze. Everton were the first to show up, but the game hardly been started when Booth received a bit of a shaking. From the free kick Everton forwards went for goal in praiseworthy style, and twice the Forest goal luckily escaped, once from Settle and the next time from Sharp, who forced a corner off Dudley. The pressure however, was not maintained, and by pretty footwork the Forest attack seriously troubled the Everton defenders. They compelled Abbott to grant a corner, and from this Morris move in at terrific pace. Scott tipping the ball over the bar in great style. This corner led to further pressure by the Reds. Young Balmer tried hard to get the ball through a ruck of legs, but he failed, and the tension was only relieved when Forman shot just over the crossbar. The wind bothered Everton a good deal and the play perhaps naturally was in favour of the Reds, whose forward work was particularly smart, Spouncer in attempting a centre placed behind, and the same player a moment later was palpably offside when he fastened upon a pass from Forman. Scott had to run out to a long shot from Henderson, and then Booth was applauded for a singularly clever clearance when Morris apparently had the goal at his mercy. So far the game had pleased the crowd, who numbered about eighteen thousand. Everton could make little impression, on the home defence, and once Lessons, by pretending to play the ball, trickily left an opening for Morris, who brought Scott to his knees with a fast shot. Taylor opened out the play, but Settle got offside, and again the Reds pressed Everton hard. There was a hesitancy however, when in the vicinity of goal, consequently Scott was rarely troubled with anything like a difficult shot. By way of diversion Hardman raced down the wing and Linacre fisted a fine dropping centre out. They were soon defending again, and with the backs not too safe it was rather remarkable how the Everton goal escaped capture. Suddenly the Evertonians changed the scene. They made play on the right., and Sharp, after taking the ball down beautifully, passed it back. Settle could not quite reach it, but McLoughlin was at hand, and beat Linacre with a shot, which gave the custodian no chance. Immediately afterward the Forest goal was almost captured as the result of a similar movement initiated by Sharp. This time Linacre was better supported, and the ball was got away. Everton, However, were now playing in, more like their best form. Neat work by Abbott placed Hardman on the go, and the amateur flashed in a centre which Linacre and threw away, Sharp was injured in a collision with Dudley, but though he limped a little he quickly resumed. Forest recovered somewhat, and invaded Everton's half, but their forwards were still in a hesitating mood. It was by no means a game to grow enthusiastic over, there being frequent mistakes on both sides. Scott ran out to Shearman, and only just managed to divert his shot at the expense of a fruitless corner. Offside on the part of McLoughlin neutralised otherwise good work by the visiting left wing, and at the other end Spouncer headed right into Scott's hand. The quality of the play if anything deteriorated, and it was not surprising that the crowd encouraged their favourites to play up. Craig was penalised for an unfair charge. And although young Balmer from the free kick landed the ball in the goalmouth Everton failed to turn it to account. The ball was in the Forest half when the interval arrived. Half-time Everton 1 goal, Notts Forest nil. In the second half the Forest played very pluckily against the wind and sun and gave Scott a great deal of work to do, but he saved from Morris and Frank Forman. After some tricky play by McDermott and McLoughlin Settle, sprinted away to the other end, and the centre forward getting his foot to the ball beat Linacre from long range with a beautifully judged shot, which the goalkeeper never saw. Sharp made strenuous efforts to increase the lead of the visitors, several times beating Timmins for speed. Play was very scrappy in the concluding stages, and nothing more was scored. Final :- Notts Forest nil, Everton 2.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 CLIFTON VILLE 0
April 26, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Fine weather favoured this match at Goodison-park yesterday, and about 5,000 people were present at the start. The teams were: - Everton: - Kitchen goal, Wildman, and McCartney backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Ritchie, half-backs, Roberts, Dilly, Thornburn, Cook, and Evans, forwards. Clifton Ville: - McFee, goal; Seymour, and McIlroy, backs, Wright, Cochrane, and D.Smith, half-backs, Blair, Scott, McComb, Thompson, and H.Martin forwards. Thornburn started, and Everton at once went to the front, Cook shooting wide. In quick succession Dilly tried a couple of shots, the first just missing, while the second was stopped by McKee. A somewhat questionable free kick against the Irishmen put a stop to what promised to prove a good piece of combination, and Everton returned to the attack, McFee saving from Evans. The visitors responded in fine style, and after Kitchen had saved well from McComb, H.Martin headed the ball into the net very neatly. For some reason or other than goal was disallowed, but the visitors continued to press for some minutes. They were eventually driven back, and Dilly had hard lines with a fine shot, which beat McFee and hit the post. A corner followed, from which McFee saved from Cook. The Itishmen played with commendable spirit, and their backs worked with success against the home forwards, who were inclined to indulge in too much passing when near goal. Once, however, Dilly hooked the ball into the net following good work by Cook, but this goal also was disallowed for offside. A neat bit of play by McComb gave Blair a chance, but the outside man shot wide. Following a lot of end to end play Dilly, beat McFee with a surprise shot. Later Dilly ran through, but when close to the goalkeeper, he missed his kick. At half-time Everton led by a goal to nothing. Everton pressed on resuming, and Roberts looked like getting through when he was fouled. The referee pointed for a penalty kick, but as the offence took place outside the penalty area, he altered his decision, and gave a free kick. From the ball was placed over the bar, and the visitors attacked, Scott sending wide. Chadwick was kicked in the face and retired, and during his absence Thornburn missed an open goal, an example followed by McComb at the other end. Cliftonville had the best of matters for some time, but shot, wretchedly. Chadwick returned, and then two of the visiting forwards missed an open goal. Thornburn was at fault on several occasions, but once McFee saved very well from Dilly. The visiting forwards often got away, but were either offside or shot wildly, Everton did not over-exert themselves, but had little difficulty in holding their opponents in check. Thornburn retired before the close, and Everton won by a goal to nil.

PLAYERS ENGAGED FOR NEXT SEASON
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 26 April 1905
By Bee
The Everton club, we learn, have signed on Booth, Taylor, McDermott, Roose the brothers Balmer, Young, Settle, Hardman, and there will be no difficulty in re-engaging Sharp and Abbott.
There will be changes in the reserve team, no doubt, but these are not ripe for publication yet; while the club have been on the look-out for several men of real ability, and when next season opens they will undoubtedly have a stronger team than this year.
For the Austria-Hungarian tour the men start out to-morrow, leaving Exchange Station at 2.10 p.m. they proceed to Harwich then on the 28th they proceed to Hook of Holland, and from there to Dresden and to Vienna. They arrive at Budapest on the 29th and their first match is on the 30th against one of the local athletic clubs. On May 2 they play the first Vienna F.C., on the 5th an Austrian eleven, on the 7th Tottenham Hotspurs, on the 10th an athletic club, on the 14th the Sportklub Slavia on the 16th Slavia Disposition, and on that day they leave Prague for home, arriving in Liverpool on the 19th at 2.50 p.m.

Everton and Their Players.
London Daily News - Thursday 27 April 1905
The statement that Scott and Rankin, of Everton were going to Newcastle and Woolwich respectively is shown to be inaccurate, reason of the fact that both have been re-engaged by the Goodison Park club. The other old players engaged William Balmer. Crelly, Taylor, Booth. Makepeace. Young. Settle. Robert Balmer. M'Lougblin. And while R. Roose and H P. Hardman, the amateurs, are expected to turn out again next season. Sharp and Abbott have not yet signed, but are expected to do so. Everton leave to-day for a tour in Austria-Hungary, where they play six matches, including one against Tottenham Hotspur

Everton and Their Players.
London Daily News - Thursday 27 April 1905
The statement that Scott and Rankin, of Everton. Were going to Newcastle and Woolwich respectively is shown to be inaccurate, reason of the fact that both have been re-engaged by the Goodison Park club. The other old players engaged William Balmer. Crelly, Taylor, Booth. Makepeace. Young. Settle. Robert Balmer. McLaughlin. And while R. Roose and H. P. Hardman, the amateurs, are expected to turn out again next season. Sharp and Abbott have not yet signed, but are expected to do so. Everton leave to-day for a tour in Austria-Hungary, where they play six matches, including one against Tottenham Hotspur

EVERTON CLUB
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 27 April 1905
PLAYERS ENGAGED FOR NEXT SEASON
The Everton club, we learn, have signed on Booth, Taylor, McDermott, Roose the brothers Balmer, Young, Settle, Hardman, and there will be no difficulty in re-engaging Sharp and Abbott.
There will be changes in the reserve team, no doubt, but these are not ripe for publication yet; while the club have been on the look-out for several men of real ability, and when next season opens they will undoubtedly have a stronger team than this year.
For the Austria-Hungarian tour the men start out to-morrow, leaving Exchange Station at 2.10 p.m. they proceed to Harwich then on the 28th they proceed to Hook of Holland, and from there to Dresden and to Vienna. They arrive at Budapest on the 29th and their first match is on the 30th against one of the local athletic clubs. On May 2 they play the first Vienna F.C., on the 5th an Austrian eleven, on the 7th Tottenham Hotspurs, on the 10th an athletic club, on the 14th the Sportklub Slavia on the 16th Slavia Disposition, and on that day they leave Prague for home, arriving in Liverpool on the 19th at 2.50 p.m.

EVERTON SET OUT
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 27 April 1905
AN INTERESTING PROGRAMME TO BE GONE THROUGH
Championship matters
Everton have set out for the Continent, and all appearances point to their having a capital time on tour. Mr. W.C. Cuff the secretary, has had the arrangements to head, and has put everything in correct order, the official card containing the “Itinerary of the Austro-Hungarian Tour of April-May, 1905.” It a complete and neat programme and reads as follows;-
April 27.- Exchange Station; Depart 2,10 p.m.
  Harwich; Arrive 9.30 p.m.; depart 10 p.m.
28- Hook of Holland; Arrive 5.5 a.m.; depart 5.30 a.m. Dresden; Arrive 10.2 p.m.’ depart 10.10 p.m.
29- Vienna (North West Station); Arrive 7.35 a.m.; depart (Staats Bohnhoff) 8.50 a.m. Budapest; Arrive 1.45 p.m. Headquarters Grand Hotel Royale.
30- Everton v Magyar Athletikat Club. 
May 1.- Budapest; Depart 2.5 p.m. Vienna; Arrive 6.50 p.m. Head-quarters. Hotel Royale.
2.- Everton v First Vienna F.C
5.- Everton v Austrian Eleven
7.- Everton v Tottenham Hotspur
9.- Vienna (Nord); depart 8 a.m. Prague; Arrive 2.58 p.m. Headquarters, Hotel Schwarzes Roff.
10.- Everton v Athletikkiub Sparta
14.- Everton v. Sportklub Slavin
16.- Everton v. Slavin Disposition
16.- Prague; Depart 10.30 p.m.
17.- Berlin; Arrive 7.30 a.m. Headquarters, Hotel Central.
18.- Berlin (Friedrichstratre);  Depart 11.40 a.m. Rotterdam; arrive 10.11 p.m. Hook of Holland; Arrive 10.56 p.m. ; depart 11.20 p.m.
19. Harwich; Arrive 6.16 a.m.; depart 7.2 a.m. Liverpool (Exchange); arrive 2.50 p.m.
It will be seen that the match of greatest import is versus Tottenham Hotspur, who happened to be on a similar errand as the Blues -they are “football missionaries.” The men Dr, Baxter, Dr. Whitford and Messrs Bainbridge, Wade, Kelly, and Cuff are taking on the “continent” are L.R Roose and Scott, goal; R. Balmer, and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, halves; Rankin, Dilly, McLoughlin, Settle, and Hardold Hardman, forwards.
William Balmer and Makepeace, the latter in particular are now well, and it is a decided stroke of ill-fortune for them that they cannot enjoy with the others what must prove a healthy and most interesting trip. There was quite a large crowd present to give the men a hearty send-off.
In addition to the names to the names (exclusively published in these columns yesterday) of the players re-engaged for next season at Goodison are Scott, Makepeace and Rankin. There will be no difficulty in obtaining Sharp’s signature.
Before the Newcastle result came to hand yesterday the Everton officials expressed to me their clinging hopes of the championship. I fear they will be disappointed. Newcastle visited Sheffield yesterday, and, after being a goal behind at the interval, defeated the Wednesday by 3 goals to 1.
Here are the positions of the clubs engaged in the triangular fight;-
Everton Played 34, won 21, lost 8, drawn 5, For 63 Against 36, Points 47
Newcastle United Play 33, won 22 lost 9, drawn 2, for 69 Against 33 points 46
Manchester City Played 33 Won 20, Lost 7, Drawn 6, For 64 Against 34, Points 46
“Admirer” brings to the notice of the public an Everton supporter’s bravery by the following letter;-
  “On Monday, at Nottingham, I witnessed a brave act by an Everton supporter. Two little boys fell into the river Trent, and this Liverpool youth threw off his overcoat and dived in and handed one and then the other to his chum, who was on the bank. Then he had to stand in his wet clothes for about fifteen minutes until a gentleman took him to his house. I saw the two at the match later, so I think the gentleman must have given him new and dry clothes. I could not get the youth’s name but his chum called him Bob, and said he lived in the Southend. I trust that if he sees this he will publish his name, and then the local secretary of the Humane Society could try to get some reward for this brave act.”

BRAVE EVERTONIAN
April 28, 1905. Liverpool Echo
“Admirer” brings to the notice of the public an Everton supporter's bravery by the following letter; - “On Monday, at Nottingham, I witnessed a brave act by an Everton supporters. Two little boys fell into the river Trent, and this Liverpool youth threw off his overcoat and dived in and handled one and then the other to his chum, who was on the bank. Then he had to stand in his wet clothes for about fifteen minutes, until a gentleman took him to his house. I saw the two at the match later, so I think the gentleman must have given him new and dry clothes. I could not get the youth's name, but his chum called him “Bob,” and said he lived in the Southend, I trust that if he sees this he will publish his name, and then the local secretary of the Humane Society could try to get some reward for this brave act.”

FOOTBALL ITEMS
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 28 April 1905
Everton have set out for the Continent, and all appearances point to their having a capital time on tour. Mr. W.C. Cuff the secretary, has had the arrangements to head, and has put everything in correct order, the official card containing the “Itinerary of the Austro-Hungarian Tour of April-May, 1905.” It a complete and neat programme and reads as follows;-
April 27.- Exchange Station; Depart 2,10 p.m.
  Harwich; Arrive 9.30 p.m.; depart 10 p.m.
28- Hook of Holland; Arrive 5.5 a.m.; depart 5.30 a.m. Dresden; Arrive 10.2 p.m.’ depart 10.10 p.m.
29- Vienna (North West Station); Arrive 7.35 a.m.; depart (Staats Bohnhoff) 8.50 a.m. Budapest; Arrive 1.45 p.m. Headquarters Grand Hotel Royale.
30- Everton v Magyar Athletikat Club. 
May 1.- Budapest; Depart 2.5 p.m. Vienna; Arrive 6.50 p.m. Head-quarters. Hotel Royale.
2.- Everton v First Vienna F.C
5.- Everton v Austrian Eleven
7.- Everton v Tottenham Hotspur
9.- Vienna (Nord); depart 8 a.m. Prague; Arrive 2.58 p.m. Headquarters, Hotel Schwarzes Roff.
10.- Everton v Athletikkiub Sparta
14.- Everton v. Sportklub Slavin
16.- Everton v. Slavin Disposition
16.- Prague; Depart 10.30 p.m.
17.- Berlin; Arrive 7.30 a.m. Headquarters, Hotel Central.
18.- Berlin (Friedrichstratre);  Depart 11.40 a.m. Rotterdam; arrive 10.11 p.m. Hook of Holland; Arrive 10.56 p.m. ; depart 11.20 p.m.
19. Harwich; Arrive 6.16 a.m.; depart 7.2 a.m. Liverpool (Exchange); arrive 2.50 p.m.
It will be seen that the match of greatest import is versus Tottenham Hotspur, who happened to be on a similar errand as the Blues -they are “football missionaries.” The men Dr, Baxter, Dr. Whitford and Messrs Bainbridge, Wade, Kelly, and Cuff are taking on the “continent” are L.R Roose and Scott, goal; R. Balmer, and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, halves; Rankin, Dilly, McLoughlin, Settle, and Hardold Hardman, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVE v  BOLTON WANDERERS RESERVE
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 28 April 1905
At Goodison Park; 3.30 Everton Reserve; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Ritchie, half-backs; Birnie, Roberts, Thorburn, Cooke, and Evans, forwards.
 
EVERTON v  BOLTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 29 April 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV A
This match, the last of the season, took place this afternoon, at Goodison Park, in showery weather. Notwithstanding the counter attraction at Liverpool, there was a capital attendance and the ground seemed to be in good condition. Birnie kicked off for Everton, who lost the toss, but the Wanderers were the first the advance. Wildman cleared, and Cook made a capital run up the wing, but was knocked off the ball before he could get a shot at goal. After a spell of even play, the Wanderers made a strong attack, but Howell spoiled the effort by shooting too high. The game was keenly contested after this, but Bolton, if anything, had rather the best of it, being more frequently on the attack, and on one occasion the Everton goal had a narrow escape. Bushell, the Old Xaverians’ goalkeeper, who was keeping goal for Bolton, had very little to do, but once he saved very well. Everton at length broke away, but the only result was a barren corner. A minute later Birnie just missed scoring by inches. Everton had a little more of the play now, and made some pretty runs, and Cook had very hard lines with a very fine shot, the leather striking the crossbar and rebounding into play. Caldwell met the ball, but shot wide. A splendid run down by Howell caused Wildman to give a corner, but proved abortive. A foul against Everton looked dangerous but it was averted, and a rush by the home forwards was averted by Kay kicking into touch. Bolton again attacked. After Kitchen had run out and saved, Yenson met the ball and sent it into the net before Kitchen could get back. Everton tried hard to equalise, but without avail, and half-time was called with the score;-
Bolton Wanderers 1, goal Everton Reserve nil
Final -Bolton Wanderers Reserve 1 goal, Everton Reserve nil.

FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Liverpool Evening Express - Saturday 29 April 1905
SUGGESTED EXTENTION TO 20 CLUBS
A well-informed correspondent wires;- At the annal meeting of the Football League big efforts will be made to enlarge the league from 18 to 20 clubs. In well informed circles there is a feeling that the present members will welcome the enlargement, but whether they will add a couple of clubs to the list is an open question. Of the proposal of 20 clubs is beaten it is regarded as a certainty that 19 clubs will be decided upon.
END OF THE FOOTBALL SEASON
THE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP
To-day the football season closes. It is singular that it should be left for the last day of the season to decide the destination of the League championship, which depends on the results of the matches at Middlesbrough and Birmingham, in which Newcastle United and Manchester City respectively are engaged. Should both be defeated, then Everton will retain top-most position and carry off premier honours. Should, both win, Everton will be third, and Newcastle, by reason of superior goal average, will take the championship. If Manchester City wins and Newcastle loses, then the former will be League champions. Never in the history of the League has there been such a close finish.