EVERTON’S IMPROVEMENTS
Athletic News - Monday 09 August 1909
Everton Enterprise
As befits one of the wealthiest and most enterprising clubs in the country, Everton are making extensive alterations on their already commodious enclosure for the forthcoming season. About a couple of years ago, writes “Junius,” they completed the first part an extensive programme to make their ground the best-equipped in England by constructing upper deck stand at the Stanley Park end of the Goodison arena, and so popular has this point of vantage become with the average attender at their matches, where for a shilling a magnificent view of the game can be enjoyed in comfort, that the directors felt little compunction in proceeding with the second portion of their scheme. Naturally enough with a balance £27,833 5s. standing to their credit at the bank the club could well afford to spend money for the benefit of their supporters, and it must be admitted that Everton have catered, and are again following out this policy towards making every provision for the comfort of the people who patronise their matches- To the casual observer the condition of affairs at Goodison Park may seem to be one of chaos, but there is no doubt that, ere the first of September arrives everything will be in readiness for the opening of the campaign. The alterations that are being pushed rapidly towards completion are very extensive. Chief attention has been directed to the Goodison-road side of the ground, where the immense cinder bank has been operated upon. Along the whole length of this stretch, a huge double-decker stand is in course of erection. The directors’ room, Secretary’s office, and Press box have been almost demolished, and on each side the new stands have been conjoined in the form of three sides of an octagon. The two wing portions will consist of standing accommodation below, along the whole length, while there will be seating room In the upper storey for the shilling spectator, ten thousand whom will have an uninterrupted view of the whole of the field. The central portion will consist of three tiers, standing below, directors, etc., and other officials in the middle part, and spectators in the upper storey. Huge steel supports and girders will bear the weight of this construction, and the terracing, both for those who stand below and those who are seated above, is composed of cement steps, which are being made by the contractors the back of the old big stand. Owing to the difficulties encountered in joining the present brick erection these new additions, considerable delay has been occasioned in bringing the operations towards completion, but all obstacles have been overcome, and it is certain that by the opening day of the season the lower portions will quite ready for use. The dressing-rooms, baths, billiard-room, gymnasium, etc., will all be arranged under this new stand, and underground passage constructed there  from to enable the players come out to the field, which they will enter from the opposite side to that which they have been previously accustomed to. Members of the Press will have a new box. Exactly in the centre, level with the directors ‘enclosure, but more forward, and nearer the field of play than that sanctum. Below them will be standing accommodation, and above the seated shilling spectators. In addition to these improvements, the whole of the cinder track on the Goodison road side, and also in front of the two goal stands, has been terraced. Cement steps have been fixed, between which numerous downward passages have been interspersed to enable spectators to reach any part of the bank without difficulty. Hence there will no undue crowding in any particular part. Every portion will be easily accessible, and the crowd will evenly dispersed over all the space available. So skillfully has the slope been arranged, both on the ground floor and on the upper decker, that every individual will able see the whole of the playing patch without difficulty. The dominating idea has been to secure every advantage for the would-be spectator at a minimum of trouble. When complete, the enclosure present wonderful appearance, will without superior anywhere. Everton have determined to the best-equipped ground in the country, and if they fail, the fault cannot lay the directors’ account. The alterations in vogue are expected cost about £12.000; but. Immense though this sum is, the officials feel that they are justified in their outlay. Their one aim is to meet the desires of their supporters, no matter what the expense may be, and they must credited with having done all in their power . With one exception, and even this may have been obliterated ere another week elapses, all the players have signified their allegiance to the Football Association, and delivered their resignation to the Players’ Union. And no wonder, for every footballer who qualifies for a benefit at Goodison can look forward to receiving £5OO, which, coupled with his £4 a week wage, does not savor white not openly expressing any opinion as to the unrest which is agitating the minds of the football authorities, are perfectly satisfied with their position, and there is not likely to be any trouble in the Goodison camp.  Everton possess a loyal band of players, who recognize the considerate motives of their employers. 

Exeter City Player's Loss .
Western Times - Wednesday 11 August 1909
Jack Crelley, the Exeter City professional footballer, hasreturned to Liverpool for a week in consequence of a family bereavement. On Monday he was advised by telegrapgh of the death of his father after a prolonged illness, and at once returned to his home.

SENATIONAL LOCAL DEVELOPMENT
Liverpool Daily Post Mercury- Thursday 19 August 1909
EVERTON AND LIVERPOOL PLAYERS REJOIN UNION
A sensational development took place in local football circles yesterday, when the Liverpool and Everton players rejoined the Players ‘Union.  The players, thirty-four in number, it seems, attended a meeting in Liverpool during the afternoon, and Mr. Broomfield wired us;-
“All Everton and Liverpool players, thirty-four in number, attending meeting held in Liverpool, have rejoined Players’ Union.- Broomfield, Secretary.” The Liverpool and Everton players have thus followed the lead of Manchester United, Sunderland, Newcastle, and Middlesbrough.  We many mention that neither the Everton nor Liverpool club attach any importance to the above statement, and, indeed, discredit it entirely. 

JACK CRELLEY
Western Times - Saturday 20 August 1910
The Whereabouts of Exeter's Old Players
Jack Crelley has finally fixed up with St. Helen's Recreation for next season.

EVERTON SEASON 1909-10
August 20, 1909. The Liverpool Football Echo
The Goodison ground is a perfect hive of industry. The Everton officials are not only bent on building up a first class team, but intend making their ground one of the fines in the county. It bears comparison with any league's round, and when completed will challenge the best in the land. Just now Mr. W.C.Cuff the general secretary is a very busy man, but he found time to chat on various topics concerning the club and players. The officials behave they have a good team, and with a bit of luck –they were not too well treated or fortune last season –hope to win honours. Personally I am convinced that the Evertonians will take beating. You may think that the Argentine tour has lane the players a lot of harm. I recollect Nottingham Forest visiting Argentina. The very next season they went in the Second Division. Mr. impression is that the tour was done the Everton players a lot of good, and it has promoted good feeling among players, and directors. The players who went on tour look remarkably well, and although all the players are not yet up, there is a clean bill of health. Sharp and Makepeace are, of course still playing cricket, and may not particularly of the practice match. I have seen both players frequently during the cricket season. They are both very fit. The directors intend a keep a sharp lookout for local players. Several promising juniors are already on the books, and applications for trials have been numerous. There is practically nothing to record in the way of transfers of old players and signing of now. The only now man of note is Gourlay; a centre forward from Port Glasgow Athletic. Chetwood and Strettell have been transferred to Crewe and Chesterfield respectively. For my own part, I think the directors can rely confidently on last season's players. I expect it will be a dangerous combination for the signing of R.F Turner strengthened the weak point of the team. The difference was obvious towards the close of the season. The following players are on the books: -
Goal: - W Scott, and CH Berry
Backs: - R. Balmer, JS McConnachie, W Stevenson, LC Wells.
Half-backs: - V Harris, J Taylor, H Makepeace, R Clifford, H Adamson, and J Borthwich.
Forwards: - J. Sharp, J Coleman, BC Freeman, RF Turner, J Gourley, GH Barlow, A Young, LG Woods, T Jones W Lacey, D Rafferty, JB Meunier, R Adamson, HS Buck, S Carlisle, W Michael, HT Osborne, C Pratt, W Webb, and JC Bardsley.
Visitors to Goodison for the practice match next Saturday will find many changes. The work on the new double-deck stand which extends the length of the Goodison road side of the ground is being pushed forward, but it has proved such a big undertaking that it will not be fully completed when the season commences. I can assure patrons however that their comfort will not in any way be interfered with. The structure at present is a mass of hugh steel girder. The skeleton will practically be completed early next week, and once this is done progress will be rapid. When completed it will be a majestic structure. Attention is being concentrated on the lower portion, and this it is expected will be ready for use by the glorious first. On three sides of the enclosure the terracing is of solid concrete, while the clinder banking has been terracing, in concrete lengths. Spectators will obtain a similar view as at Anfield, in the sense that the ground all round the playing space has been lowered and onlookers on the lower terraces will be nearly on a level with the players.

EVERTON NEW PLAYER
August 20, 1909. The Liverpool Football Echo
Carlise Everton's new forward hails from Valkyries FC, and not from Harrow as previously announced.
The mysterious McCormick whom Everton signed from Newcastle United has never played in their League team, is announced as one of Millwall's capture for the coming season.
Mr. Halliday, a former day Everton full back has secured some very able forward recruits this summer for Brentford. Also Sloan who was originally with Everton them signed for Liverpool, has gone to Belfast Distillery as players manager.

STANLEY V EVERTON AND LIVERPOOL PLAYERS.
August 20, 1909. The Liverpool Football Echo
The football players of Everton and Liverpool and the first team of the Stanley CC are playing a return cricket match at Lower Arkles-lane on Monday and Tuesday next the 23 rd and 24 th inst., commencing each evening at 5-50.

THE FOOTBALL CRISIS
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Friday 20 August 1909
POSITION OF EVERTON AND LIVERPOOL
HOW THE SITUATION STANDS
By F.E.H.
There is no blinking the fact the football world is at the present moment in a condition of suppressed nervous tension and excitement.  Officials and players alike feel that they are treading upon the edge of a volcano which may at a given moment engulf one or other –or both.  It is quite unnecessary to enter upon the various causes that have led to the present critical situation.  All who take an intelligent interest in the great winter game know that for some seasons past the question of a maximum wage and bonuses have been very round one.  The rich clubs have not been able to see eye to eye with those in less prosperous circumstances, while towering over all is that somewhat autocratic body knows as the English Football Association.  The foundation of the Players’ Union created a flutter in the dovecotes of the supreme authorities, and when the players were eventually banned the crisis became acute.  The Football Association, however, carried the day, and there were those who thought that the difficulty had been satisfactory dealt with.  The submission of the professional exponents of the game seems but to have been a lull before the storm.  Now, on the eve of the glorious first”- September –it is stated that the servants of many of the leading League clubs of the country have rejoined the union.  The attitude of the players attached to the Everton and Liverpool clubs is naturally of chief importance to our local readers.  They will be interested to learn that so far as both these popular and powerful organisations are concerned there is every hope of a cordial understanding being arrived at before the toucan sounds next Wednesday week.  I am in a position to state that when the Everton players were asked to attend the conference called by Mr. Broomfield, the union secretary, on Wednesday, they declined.  Most of the Liverpool players, on the other hand, did attend, and the meeting was adjourned after the general state of affairs had been discussed.  Subsequently Mr. Broomfield waited upon the Everton men, and they, like the Liverpool players, signified their willingness to join the union if the rules and conditions were satisfactory and agreeable to the Football Association.  I have the best authority for stating that the League club officials will, after this pronouncement, meet within the next day or two to discuss their position.  This conference will be followed by a meeting between the League and the Association, when the latter, it may be confidently presumed, will ask what support the League authorizing are prepared to give the governing body.  Upon this answer much-nay, all- may depend.  Briefly, it comes to this; that, having regard to the whole circumstances, the League club committee must either stand by the Association or throw in their lot with the players.  If the clubs stand by the Association the recalcitrant players must inevitably suffer, for there are still plenty of players in the land.  At the same time, I do suppose that matters will come to such a climax.  The Football Association have already intimated that they may be prepared to offer a compromise.  That is to say, they will recognize a union which does not abrogate any of the Association’s own rules.  There can, for instance, he no possible objection to the provident scheme of the union.  Footballers in the past have alas, been mainly improvident and an improvement in this respect could not fail to meet with the approbation of the powers that be.  A players Union, prepared on proper lines, and subject to the Association, will, I have the highest authority for believing be fully and officially recognized.  That an amicable adjustment will be speedily arranged there in every reason to hope. 

EVERTON PRACTICE REARRANGED
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 21 August 1909
Everton will have only one public practice.  It was originally fixed for this day week; but we are officially notified that the match has been rearranged to Thursday next, the 26th inst., kick-off 5.45. 

EVERTON
August 23, 1909 The Athletic News
By Junius
Twelve months ago Everton were concerned with the reorganization of their forces, and speculation was rife as to the manner in which their new talent would blend with what was left of the old brigade. This problem was solved during the first half of the season, for Everton did not lose a match away from home until January 30 th , and they eventually gained second position in the final League chart. The least satisfactory part of the team last year was the left wing in the forward line, but this was remedied during the closing weeks by the acquisition of “Watty” White, from Bolton Wanderers, and Turner, from Leicester Fosse. Thus at the end of April Everton were ready with a capable team to fullfil their obligations in the succeeding year. It may, therefore, be taken for granted that the club will resume on the 1 st of September with practically the same eleven that won the last League match decided at Goodison Park. At the time of writing, I am aware of but one deflection from the ranks. Coleman has not severed his connection with the Players Union, and of course, he has started training with his old comrades. The club, however, possesses a most promising youngster in Lacey, who was secured from Dublin Shelbourne fifteen months ago, and who gained international honours last season. He played inside right during the recent tour of Argentina, and was the most consistent forward on the side. At a private practice match, held a few days ago, he showed sufficient ability to merit his prompt inclusion in the League eleven. He stands 5ft 8 1/2ins and weighs 11st 12lbs. Amongst the players retained are the eider Balmer, who will probably retire from football; Strettle, who has gone to Chesterfield; Coupar, who is at present at home in Scotland; and Crews, who came with Coleman from Woolwich. In the reserve ranks are several clever players, who have already had experience of League warfare, Stevenson full-back, Borthwick centre half-back, Adamson and Clifford half-backs, and “Prescott” Jones inside forward. The latter has greatly benefited by his trip to South America, and the veteran John D. Taylor, has also returned rejuvenated, and ready for a few ,more years of football. Practically only two new players have been engaged, James Gourlay, who comes of a famous football family, and who can operate at centre-forward, or in either of the inside positions, stands 5ft, 7ins, and weighs 11st 3lbs. He was secured from Port Glasgow Athletic. Louis Weller, is a tall Staffordshire recruit standing 5ft 7ins, and weighs 11st, while he is only 21 years of age. He played left half towards the end of April, and shaped in good style. J Canon Bardsley is an amateur, who has seen service with Rossendale and Southport Y.M.C.A. He stands 6ft, and is proportionately built. He has assisted Lancashire in Inter-County football, and is recognized in the amateur circles of the Palatinate. Great alternations have been made on the ground during the close season, full details of which appeared in our issue of the 9 th inst, therefore any further reference here is unnecessary. Visitors to Goodison Park will be astonished at the immensity of the new double-decker stand, and the clean, compact appearance of the enclosure, surrounded as it is on all sides by cement terracing. The directors are hoping that the whole of the lower portion, at least, will be in readiness for “the first.”

•  Thanks To Kjell Hanssen for sending this to me.

EVERTON AT ANFIELD
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 25 August 1909
MR. John McKenna, chairman of the Liverpool Football Club, has set the fashion in football amenities.  He received a telegram at the conference at Birmingham from Mr. Cuff, secretary of the Everton Football Club, asking if the latter may have the use of the Anfield enclosure for their practice match to-morrow.  Mr. McKenna immediately assented, so the Goodison brigade will be seen across the park to-morrow afternoon.  The Everton ground, owing to the considerable alterations being made, is not yet ready, but the work will be finished for the 1st proximate. 

FOOTBALL CRISIS
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 25 August 1909
FUTILE CONFERENCE AT BIRMINGHAM
SUSPENSION ARREARS THE STUMBLING BLOCK
FURTHER MEETING TO BE HELD
FROM “F.E.H” OF THE FOOTBALL ECHO
When I intimated, few days ago, that those interested in football-playing and itsadministration were beading on the crust of a volcano, it was no idle piece of prophecy. Yesterday’s conference at Birmingham confirms the gloomiest anticipations, for the masters and men are now at absolute loggerheads.  For nearly five hours by the clock representatives of the Football Association, the Players’ Union, and the Federation of Trades Unions exchanged pourparlers at the Grand Hotel, Birmingham, and in the end nothing more than a deadlock was arrived at.   When the conference commenced we were led to believe that an amicable settlement would certainly be come to.  Prominent Football Association officials tacitly admitted that they were prepared to recognize the Union, and the wages question, it said, was merely matter for arbitration. It was anticipated that the one stumbling block in the way a settlement would prove the request of the players carry out their pledge to meet the Amateur Football Association for the Charity Shield. I happen to know this view was held by prominent members of the conference before it opened. To the general surprise, and certainly to the astonishment of the League clubs present, the conference broke on point which everyone had thought to already settled.  This was the request the players for permission for the clubs, Manchester  United being chiefly concerned, pay to the players suspended account of their membership of the Union their seven weeks’ wages lost through suspension.  The Football Association, while willing to reinstate these players—who, of course, include Hardy (of Liverpool) and Coleman (of Everton)—flatly refused to grant this back pay. The Federation and the Players’ Union at once consulted, and, on the Football Association repeating their irrevocable decision upon the point, Alderman Gee informed the Football Association officers that the conference was at an end. I understand that within the next few days the players of the country will be canvassed by their Union, and, Mr. Broomfield stated, steps are certain to be taken to meet the circumstances. The Football Association officers present were Messrs. J. C. Clegg, J. J.  Bentley, C. Crump, D. B. Woolfall, C.  J. Hughes, A. Davies, and W. Pickford, with Mr. F. J. Wall (secretary). The Federation was represented by Alderman Gee (Yorkshire Textile Workers), Mr. T. A. Wilkins (Engineers), and Mr. G.  A. Appleton (secretary). The players were represented by H. Mainman, H. C. Broomfield, C. Roberts, C. Veitch, A. Bridgett, J. Logan, S. Hardy, and F. Bradshaw.
THE PLAYERS’ REPORT. 
At the close of the conference the parties separated into different rooms.  The Press were called into the players’ meeting, and Mr. Broomfield said:  “This the statement I have to make to you. Proposals were submitted from both sides, and were fully considered.  The conference broke up on the Football Association refusing to allow clubs to arrears wages due to players who had been suspended for refusing to resign their membership the Players’ Union.”
ASSOCIATION’S STIPULATIONS. 
After this brief statement, which waslistened to quite small army of journalists, there was another period of waiting before the representatives of the Football Association communicated the result of their deliberations. Shortly before eight o’clock Mr. Wall, the secretary of the Association, with whom was Mr. J. C. Clegg, the chairman, made a lengthy statement.  After alluding to the correspondence which had passed between the governing body and the Players' Union since July last, Mr. Wall remarked that at the conference that day between the officers of the Football Association, the representatives of the Federation of Trades Unions, and the Players’ Union, the proposals contained in the letter of Mr. Broomfield, dated the 6th August, were considered. After lengthy discussion the following proposals were put forward the officers of the Football Association: 
1.   Players must observe the rules and practices of the Football Association until they are altered.
2. The Football Association has never disputed the right of professional players to combine for the promotion of their common interests. 
3. The Football Association does not dispute the right the Players’ Union to act on behalf of its members all matters which are in accordance with the rules and practices of the Association. 
4. In workmen’s compensation cases the proceedings must be taken through the courts unless the parties enter into a mutual agreement, and such cases the Association will prepared assist to this end.  5.  If the Players Union to act in the future in accordance with the above conditions, the officers of the Football Association are prepared to recommend a reversion of the suspensions of  players becauseof their connection with the Union. 
6. The officers of the Association are prepared to recommend the Council to continue to press for the removal of the financial arrangements from the rules as proposed the last general meeting of the Association. 
7. The Football Association, as in the past, will give consent for a match to be played annually by members of the Association for the benefit of the Players’ Union. 
COUNTER - PROPOSALS. 
Mr. Wall proceeded say that the representatives of the Federation and the Union duly considered those proposals, and returned with the following suggestions; 
(1) The Football Association admits the right of professional players to belong to a bona-fide trades union, and players agree to observe rules until they are altered. 
(2) The Association admits the right the Union to act on behalf of members where common rights are concerned, and the Union will advise members not to take cases into court without giving the Association reasonable opportunity of considering them. 
(3) The Football Association shall remove all suspensions inflicted upon players because of their connection with the Union, and shall allow clubs to pay all the arrears of wages due to the suspended players for refusing to resign their membership the Players’ Union. 
(4) The Association will arrange a special general meeting during September to deal with the abolition of the transfer system, and all restrictions on players' earnings. 
(5) The players desire permission to carry out the arrangements made with the Corinthians for the Sheriff of London's Shield this year. 
NO AGREEMENT. 
The Football Association considered suggestions, and in said they preferred to adhere the words of their own proposals Nos. 1 and 2. They could not accept the Players' proposal No 2 in place their own suggestion. They could not accept proposal No. 3 for the demand wages. They were willing to add No. 6 the following words;-“The officers will recommend the Council to  convene a special, general meeting  at a convenient date to consider the same proposals submitted the last general meeting, so that if passed they would come into operation 1910. They declined No. 5. With regard to disputes about wages, the Association would undertake to deal with cases, and if either party was dissatisfied they should have right to take their into courts.  The Union in turn considered those proposals, and the parties meeting again the Football Association representatives were asked whether they were prepared to agree to the wages being paid during suspension, and whether the other proposals were acceptable.  The representatives of the Football Association stated that they were not prepared to recommend wages of those suspended. A member of the Federation thereupon stated that the conference was at end. 
FURTHER CONFERENCES. 
The officers of the Association met subsequently, and it was that the club in membership with the Football league and the Southern League should be notified to meet the officers of the Association at the Grand Hotel, Birmingham, Friday next, at 2.30 p.m. Meanwhile, the clubs are requested to invite their players to appoint representatives to attend a meeting, also at the Grand Hotel. Birmingham, on Tuesday next, to confer with the officer of the Football Association. 

EVERTON F.C. PRACTICE MATCH
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 26 August 1909
THE TEAMS
The Everton ground owing to the considerable alternations being made, is not ready yet, and their practice match, through the courtesy of the Liverpool officers, will be played at Anfield this evening, the kick-off being fixed for 5.45.  The following are the teams;- Blues; Scott; Balmer, and Macconnachie; Harris, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, White, Freeman, Young, Turner.  Whites; Berry; Stevenson, and Meunier; Rafferty, Borthwick, and Adamson; Michaels, Lacey, Gourlay, Anderson, and Barlow.  

EVERTON PRACTICE MATCH.
August 27, 1909. The Liverpool Courier
RESERVE MEN IN FORM.
There was conclusive evidence from last night's practice match there is a condition of fitness in the players which augure well for the campaign, which will shortly be entered upon at Goodison Park. Some 10,000 of Everton followers had an opportunity of judging prospectively the merits of the players as they entered into their preliminary exercise on the Liverpool Club at Anfield. It was at once a racious act on the part of the Liverpool directors to place their enclosure at the disposal of the Everton Club at a juncture when Goodison Park is still in the hands of the workmen, a circumstance which rendered a turn out there rather inconvenient. Meanwhile the improvements on the ground are being rapidly pushed forward, and when these are completed, Goodison will want a lot of beating as football location. Nearly all the old faces were noticed in the twenty-two who turned out, with the exception, of course of Sharp and Makepeace, who are still engaged with cricket. In the League team –the Blues –Clifford, and Adamson operated with Taylor in the half-back line, while on the stripes side, the Reserves team, the new man, Gourlay of Port Glawsgow, and Weller of Leek United, made their debut. The outcome of the game, although is represented the League team as winning by two goals to on, left the spectators with the conviction that Everton have a reliable and clever lot of men in their reserves team. On play they really impressed the crowd in a grated degree than the more tried players, and it is eminently satisfactory to know that the Everton authorities will have excellent material to fall back upon when the occasion arises. Possibly the Blues were not putting forth their best efforts –at least they did not as a whole seem to be doing. Of course there were exceptions. White playing a grand game at through. He is sure to be a tower of strength. He was responsible for both the goals for the Blues. Freeman was not seen to the best advantage. Borthwick giving him the closest attention, but Turner showed that he is an artiste with the ball. Buck in a dashing and plucky little player, whose speed stands him in good stead. Taylor had not too many opportunities, but he made the most of them. MaConnachie was as usual very cool, though occasionally he was neatly tricked by Michaels, a promising youth, who ought to be of some service. Bob Balmer's display was not free from mistakes in the first half, but in the second portion his defence was sounder. Scott, as usual, was safe in goal. Amongst the Stripes each man was a determined trier. Mountford was par excellence the stalwart of the front line, his passing being always well judged, and he was a danger to reckon with. Anderson made him a very effective partner, and it was he who paved the way for Gourlay to score. The latter did some promising work, and made openings very effectively. Borthwick was a keen and resourceful centre half. Rafferty and Weller also appearing to advantage. A clever back is possessed by Evertion in Meunier, who times the ball with rare judgement, and always seems to be in the right place. Berry's display in goal created a very favourable impression. Teams: - Blues: - Scott, goal, R. Balmer, and MaConnachie, (Captain), backs, Adamson, Taylor, and Clifford, half-backs Buck, White, Freeman, Young, and Turner forwards. Stripes: - Berry, goal, Stevenson, and Meunier, backs, Rafferty, Borthwick, and Weller, backs, Michaels, Lacey, Gourley, Anderson, and Mountford, forwards. Referee D.Peers.

EVERON PRACTICE MATCH
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 27 August 1909
After a lapse of years, history repeated itself when the Everton players last evening made their debut at Anfield, their old ground, as the outcome of the courtesy of the Liverpool Football Club executive.  The players who part in the practice match were divided into Blues and Stripes, as follow;- Blues; Scott; R. Balmer, and Macconnachie, backs; Adamson, Taylor and Clifford, half-backs; Buck, White, Freeman, Young, and Turner, forwards.  Stripes; Berry, goal; Stevenson and Meunier, backs; Rafferty, Borthwick, and Weller, half-backs; Michaels, Lacey, Gourlay, Anderson, and Mountford, forwards.  Referee, Mr.. S.D. Peers.  The game was played in charming weather before 10,000 spectators and it was obvious the internecine disputes so acute just now in the football world are unlikely to weaken the allegiance of our local supporters.  The game proved somewhat crude through difficulty any precise manipulation of the ball, and thus the finer and more polished features of the game were conspicuous by their absence.  The trend of the game was, however, far from listless, and if the attack of the seniors occasionally or more often than not lapsed into the lackadaisical, the defence was determined enough, and disinclined to allow any undue liberty to be taken.  Balmer, however, was more venturesome than discreet, and ultimately his slackness let in Mountford and Anderson, whose efforts opened up an easy chance, which Gourlay turned to account smartly, and Scott was fain to admit defeat.  This reverse by no means store the seniors to supreme effort, and it was left to White to equalize just on half-time with a kind of curling shot, which evidently deceived the wary Berry, for he dropped the ball after apparently saving.  Half-time, one goal each.  Sterner efforts were expected from the Blues in the latter moiety of the game, but were was nothing stylish about the attack and it was certainly spiced with a little zest pertinacity; indeed, the honours rested rather with the juniors, and they were somewhat on lucky to get in arrears.  Ultimately White got in a powerful drive from a distance and the ball, sailing high all the time, evidently puzzled Berry, for he seemed unable to locate it at the finish.  Anderson came near equalizing with a glorious drive which sent the testy sphere crashing against the crossbar, only to curl off to the left out of danger.  As the outcome of a galliant struggle the Stripes retired vanquished by 2 goals to 1. 
FORM OF THE PLAYERS
Mountford was the most energetic forward on the field.  He showed dash and fine speed as well as sound judgment in disposing of the leather.  Buck, in a lesser degree was a shining light, and set his senior colleagues a fine example to enterprise and determination.  These two men showed not a vestige of staleness.  Anderson can shoot, and was a most discreet partner for Mountford.  On the opposite wing, Michaels gained favourable notice, and his fine, clean, forceful methods several times puzzled Macconnachie.  The reserve half-back line were distinctly clumsy compared with Adamson, Taylor and Clifford; nevertheless they worried the Blue line of attack incessantly, and Freeman probably did not relish the leech-like attentions of Borthwick, for the great Everton centre did not play a keen game.  The creditable display of the Stripes was mainly due to the excellent defence of Stevenson, Meunier and Berry.  The backs were always alert and resourceful and Meunier’s cool, clean efforts made him a big favourite with the crowd who admired his compact, athletic frame as well as his astonishing nimbleness under pressure.  Berry had some stiff shots to negotiate, and perhaps his finest effort was to deflect a swift, deadly shot of Young’s out of the corner of the net.  Young proved clever with the ball, and two or three of his shots were quite in his best style.  Freeman, perhaps was off colour, for he missed several good openings; on the whole he was disappointing.  White was keen all the time, and benefited by the dashing tactics of Buck and as the bulk of the attack came from the right wing, it was fitting White should have a dual success.  May he repeat the feat often during the season.  Turner was near and pretty sound when operating but he was not in the picture too often.  Jock Taylor was the mastermind of the half-back line, and his supreme resourcefulness was as marked as ever.  Lengthy, free and easy was Clifford but effective withal.  Balmer took far too many risks, even though I was but a practice game.  Macconnachie was his own inimitable self, and we expect great things from him this season. 

KEENS RIVALS
Athletic News - Monday 30 August 1909
Owing to the alterations on the Goodison Park ground being incomplete, the Everton directors were in a quandary regarding the playing of the first practice game, for it was absolutely impossible to allow spectators on to their enclosure.  However, a way out of the difficulty was forthcoming, for the Liverpool directors generously acceded to the request of their neighbours to play the game at Anfield, and there was the unusual spectacle of the Everton League and Combination elevens opposing each other on the ground of their keenest rivals. 

EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 30 August 1909
We understand that the Everton F.C players on Saturday announced their intention to remain loyal to their club and the Football Association. 

EVERTON’S POSITION
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 31 August 1909
CAPTAIN’S ULTIMATUM AND DIRECTORS REPLY
The following letter was yesterday addressed to the secretary and directors of the Everton Football Club;-
Gentlemen, you will by now have received the postcard notifying you of twenty-two players of your having rejoined the Players’ Union.  Having in mind the suspension and refusal to pay the back wages to our own colleagues Coleman and the players of Manchester United, whom we all recognize as being the means of enabling the Union to exist, we absolutely refuse to allow these men to suffer any punishment, or to leave them in the lurch.  It would be most un-English like and unworthy of any footballer on principle. We have no grievance against the club in any way, as the players are quite satisfied with the way you have always treated them.  But when you are discussing this matter with the F.A kindly remember that you owe some of your wealth to the loyalty of your players, who have been content to play and again honours for you without the payment of illegal bonuses or payments, when they well knew that most of their opponents were receiving such payments.  Hoping this matter may be amicably settled. I beg to remain,
Your faithfully servant,
J. Sharp (captain)
On behalf of the players. 
The following are the players who have rejoined the Union- J. Sharp, H. Makepeace, R.F. Turner, J. Macconnachie, R. Balmer, Stevenson, Borthwick, H. Adamson, Mountford, C. Pratt, B.C. Freeman, A. Young, W. Scott, White, Lacey, Rafferty, Meunier, Berry, Clifford, Gourlaey, and Weller.  Coleman has been suspended all through the piece, having retained membership of the Union. 
The players held a meeting at the ground yesterday morning, and came to the unanimous decision to throw in their lot with the Union.  “We are only claiming our rights,” said the Everton captain, “and had the Association agreed to pay back wages to the suspended players I believe a settlement would have been arrived at.”  “When the F.A. state their willingness to pay back wages,” Sharp added, “then there is a prospect of settlement.  The Everton players wished it to be fully understood that they bore the club no animus.  No fewer than eleven Everton players attended the meeting on Sunday, Liverpool sending two representatives.
EVERTON DIRECTRS SPECIAL MEETING
The Everton directors, in view of the gravity of the situation, called a special meeting last night, and at its conclusion I received a full and official communication from Mr. W.C. Cuff, the secretary.  He told me that when they received Sharp’s letter they were positively astounded, especially in view of the fact that on the Thursday night prior to the practice match all seemed well.  The players were then asked if they would remain loyal, and it was pointed out to them the Everton directors would continue to do in the future what they had always done in the past-their best for the interest and welfare of the players.  They wished to be assured of the loyalty of the men of their intention to rejoin the Union.  The players subsequently held a meeting, and, on the motion, of J.Taylor, a resolution was passed, with only one dissentient, pledging loyalty to the Everton Club and the Football Association. The directors were told of this and of the promise that the players were standing by them.  Neither Sharp nor Makepeace was present at that meeting, for their cricketing engagements had prompted the directors to excuse them from attendance at practice until the end of the present month.  The indifference of the men to the Players Union and all the matters in dispute was taken as being real.  On Saturday morning Sharp and Makepeace joined the players and a meeting was held, at which it was decided that they should not send delegates to attend to-day’s meeting at Birmingham –the matter being of no moment.  “Then comes the cold douche of this afternoon,” added Mr. Cuff.  “But you may take it from us that we intend to play our opening game.  We feel that some influence has been brought to bear on the majority of our players to cause them to swerve from their expressed loyalty to the club, the result being that only two members have declined to rejoin the Union.  One of these, Taylor, on being asked by his captain, Sharp whether he would rejoin, declared that he would not do so, having been always well treated by his club.  He added that he failed to understand why so many of the players had changed their minds. “The directors feel,” said Mr. Cuff,” that a goodly number of the players have been influenced against their better judgement, and even at this late hour they still hope that upon more mature consideration they will withdraw their intimation rejoining that body.  The club of course, is absolutely helpless in the matter, for a player’s action in rejoining the Union de facto suspends himself.  Further, he runs the risk of being permanently suspended.  This to the players who have prospective benefits in store is a position they have probably overlooked.  A proof that the Everton directors have always had the interest of the players at heart consists of the fact that only last season two players received in benefits over 500 pounds.  The players seemed to think that the rock upon which the negotiations still pending will split is the removal of the suspension of the Manchester United players and the payment of back wages.  That of course, is not a fact.  In any event,” concluded Mr. Cuff, “we intend to put our best available team on the ground on Wednesday.” 

THE FOOTBALL DEADLOCK
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 31 August 1909
RALLY TO THE PLAYERS UNION
A SURPRISE FOR THE AUTHORITIES
EVERTON AND LIVERPOOL INVOLVED
By “F.E.H.”
Those who have followed the course of the struggle –a Titanic trial of strength—between the Football Association and League authorities and the Players’ Union, must have seen that the question is fraught with all sorts of complexities. Undercurrents, undreamt to those outside the inner-circles, have been running fiercely and strong during the last few days. After the last Birmingham meeting I indicated that, in spite the strong and unbending front presented the two governing bodies, the last word had not then been said. Subsequent events have proved this to true. Even the time of writing vital issue between masters and men is stake, and no one can positively say what the termination of this afternoon's meeting at Birmingham will be. The numerical strength, taken in conjunction with the enthusiasm displayed at the meeting of the players at Manchester on Sunday evening, took the legislators the Football world somewhat aback. The whole situation still remains as unsettled and chaotic as ever. George Bernard Shaw and his works are in the air just now, and the title one of his plays kits off the  situation at the present moment—“ You never can tell.” put the matter in  a nutshell, everything is at sixes and at sevens. To-day's meeting at Birmingham between the Football Association;  and the Players—that is to say, those  who are permitted to attend—will alone settle the question to whether we are to have full and authorized league competitions this coming season. The ultimatum of the Everton players yesterday afternoon, although a further shock, is merely another phase of an admittedly acute situation.  Probably what the public would most like to know at the present moment is the inner mind of the Football Association and officials. It seems highly improbable that the present culmination has not been anticipated. Now the question is. What policy hails the powers that be in their minds when they practically challenged the players? How are the difficulties of providing teams for the opening matches to overcome, and how long is the struggle to continue under the new conditions before either side is prepared to give way? Yesterday I interviewed several local directors and at least half a dozen prominent players, but they were all significantly silent. As a strict matter of fact, neither employers nor players precisely know where they are.  There such a divergence of opinion among both that it is absolutely impossibleto determine what may precisely happen on Wednesday. The documentary evidence of the players their loyal allegiance to the authorities may or may not mean something. Despite the letter of the Evertonian players their directors, the inquiries I have made show that the men themselves are apparently in great quandary the directors of all the League clubs. The whole situation teems with possibilities—and sensations.  It should not forgotten, the way, that the action the League club representatives in supporting the determination of the Association represents the views of the directors. It is possible -though, I admit, not probable—that the shareholders of any of the clubs might, at an extraordinary meeting, reverse this decision. Such contingency in the case of Everton and Liverpool, say nothing of other organiastions, would open up a ground of complexities unparalleled in the history of the game. To sum up the situation, all who take intelligent interest in the game admit that the crisis undoubtedly grave. The balance of opinion among those best calculated to judge is that the issue will favour the administrators.  Before nightfall we shall see.