Everton Independent Research Data

 

ENTER THE FOOTBALLERS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 01 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
The footballers answered the call today.  The calling up notices were answered by all our local players and the morning at Everton and Liverpool was spent chiefly in “howdydoes” and introductions to new players.  At Everton Secretary McIntosh and Chairman Cuff met the players. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 02 August 1930
By Louis T. Kelly

BARS OF IRON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 04 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
“Safety First " gets one in early.  "At the time of all the argument about the legality of the goal which put Wrexham out of the Cup last season (he says), many people, including Mr.  Brodie, the inventor of the goal-net, protested against the use of inside iron supports for the net. It was pointed out that the ball could rebound, and, in fact, had done so on many occasions from a net supported in this manner. "Now that the football season is drawing nigh, I wonder if you could draw the attention of an official of the Liverpool Football Club to this matter?.  Everton have never used the iron support, and, consequently, have never had any disputes about the ball going "in the net and out again." Their system of having the net supported by two poles well away from the actual net is the better method. I have myself seen the ball rebound from Liverpool’s several times. Let Liverpool follow Everton’s example, and have an original 'Brodie net' next season."
PLYMOUTH “SOUNDS”
I was not quite correct in my spelling of the name of Plymouth Argyle’s ground.  In the days of the old Southern League I had occasion to play some seven or eight times on this ground, and it was only known to us as “Home Park (says “Old Pro”) It is a trivial matter, but it might be of interest to you and your readers to know that it is one of the best grounds in the Southern section.  So which way one approaches the ground it is up-hill, and consequently there is nearly always a bit of a breeze.  Visiting teams are always sure of good support, because of the Naval element which is always to be found at Portsmouth and in a lesser degree, at Gillingham.  In the days of which I have made reference on more than one occasion the team which I was connected with left London at 10.30 a.m., had lunch on the journey, arriving at Plymouth at 2.37 after a run of 226 miles without a stop.  Taxis were boarded on arrival, and at 3.15 the game had commenced.  Of course, with an earlier kick-off it was not possible, but meant a journey overnight.  I believe the 10. 30 non-stop from Paddington to Plymouth still runs daily.  I have followed Everton for some years, and do not offer any criticism, but simply wish them the best of luck and a speedy return to Division 1. 
Thank you, “Old Pro,” for an instructive letter.

EVERTON’S CONCERN
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 06 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
It has been stated that Mr. Chapman is going to bring off another of his big coups.  He is not interested.  That is final.  I will hazard a guess- anything more would be foolish at the moment –that if Jackson moves he will go to Newcastle, or possibly to Everton.  Everton have long had fancy for his signing; in the middle of last season they sought out Huddersfield, and I gave you the news exclusively that he was to be signed.  But a business arrangement cropped up, by which Jackson found it worth his while to stay at Huddersfield.  Everton were very vexed that they had missed their man at the last moment, but I do know that the club has already been notified that Jackson is on offer- in fact, they were first to know of it; their previous inquiries led to them to acquaint Everton of the rather startling fact.  Newcastle in a new regime are making big strides towards fashioning a team to resemble their old-star days.  True, they have transferred Gallacher to Chelsea, for a five-figure item (half of which has yet to be paid by the way, according to rumour) and they have a great desire to sign Joe Hulme, of the Arsenal.  This deal may be accomplished in the course of a month or so.  The price asked for Hulme is a pretty stiff one, and Newcastle may eventually say “Right.”  It has been declared that Everton were keen to sign Hulme, but I think there has been confusion; the man they desired was not Hulme, but Brian, who disappointed the scouts who went to see him at the game played at Derby at the back end of the season.  Everton have long desired a starring outside right- they have had none since the days of Sam Chedzoy and Jack Sharp, say some of their shareholders and Jackson’s canny play would at least be a great treat to the Goodison crowd, who love a man of note and finesse –also a good shooter –a willing shooter, which is rather foreign to the general style of stylist who comes to Everton!  However, Everton may not care to take a deal with Yorks at this time of day.  They must be interested because they have more than once seen fit to give Critchley the inside-right position in case of Martin being injured, and Critchley and Jackson would surely make one of the most “awkward” wings in the country –I say this knowing the double reading of the word but readers will realise the meaning of the word “awkward.”  At the moment Everton are considering the matter.
KELLY-CARLISLE
The diffilcuty which has confronted Carlisle United respecting their centre half-back position has been solved.  They had hopes of securing Swallow, of St. Johnstone, but Millwall “got there first”  There was some financial arrangement required regarding Jeremiah Kelly, the Everton half-back, whom the Cumberland club had been negotiating for several weeks.  But this difficulty has now been overcome and Carlisle United secured Kelly’s signature yesterday, which will cause great satisfaction to the club’s supporters.  Kelly, who is twenty-six years of age.

BOB IRVINE DENIAL
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 07 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
An absolute denial is given by the manager of the Portsmouth F.C to the statement that Robert Irvibe, their Irish international, has been signed on by Derby City, the Irish club.  Several clubs in the English League are negotiating for the transfer of Irvine.  Irvine formerly played for Everton. 

EVERTON'S "NO" TO HUDDERSFIELD 
Liverpool Echo - Friday 08 August 1930
NOT BIDDING FOR ALEC JACKSON
Bee’s  
Everton have decided not to enter the bidding for the transfer of Alec Jackson of Huddersfield. “Bee " understands that the huge fees talked of in connection with the transfer are the main reason for Everton refusing to enter the bidding.  The talk of 15,000 pounds transfer fee is inferred to in Bee’s notes.  Everton teams for the first practice match are;-   Blues’ Coggins; Williams, Lowe; Mcpherson, Griffiths, Thompson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby,.  White; Sagar; Common, Cresswell; Britton, Gee, Towers; Wilkinson, Dunn, McCambridge, Webster, and Stein. 
Everton F.C shareholders and members’ tickets are now on sale and for the benefit of those unable to attend during the day, the office will be open on Monday and Friday evenings until 8 p.m. 

EVERTON FOOTBALLERS AT CRICKET
August 9th 1930, Liverpool Post and Mercury
A selected side of Everton players will provide the opponents at Malden lane, Clubmoor (behind the picture house) on Monday, and Tuesday evening next at 6.30pm against the Clubmoor Cricket Club, when there will be a collection for the groundsmen's benefit.
The Everton team will be, dean (W.R.), Towers (J), Bryan (J), White (TA), Williams (BD), Barton, Critcley (E), Rigby (A), Gee (C), Wilkinson (J), Webster (CR), Thomson (J), Chedgzoy (S) (Jun)

EVERTON FOOTBALLERS AT CRICKET
Liverpool Echo – Saturday May 9 1930
A selected side of Everton players will provide the opposite at Maiden-lane, Clubmoor (behind Picture House), on Monday and Tuesday evening next at 6.30 against the Clubmoor Cricket Club when there will be a collection for groundsman’s benefit.  The teams are;- Clubmoor;- Dr. J. Rumjahn, R.L. Sommerville, H.L. Nuttall, W.J. Chester, T.C. Williams, C. Simpson, G.J. Tomkinson, W.D. Getty, T.J. Gatcliffe, H. Rowland, E.E. Capstick.  Everton (from)- W.R. Dean, J. Towers, L. F. Bryan, T.A. White, B.D. Williams, - Barton, E. Critchley, A. Rigby, C. Gee, J. Wilkinson, c. R. Webster, J. Thomson, and S. Chedgzoy., jun. 

EVERTON FOOTBALLERS AT CRICKET
August 12 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
The two evening engagements began at Clubmoor last night. Clubmoor battled first and scored 122 in one hour and 35 minutes. Somerville and Nuttall opened the innings and put on 57 before being parted. At 69 three further wickets. A splendid stand by Harling and Tompkinson took the score to 112 before the latter was caught by Dean. When only nine further runs added, the last three wickets fell. Martin took four for 30, Wilkinson two for 5, Rigby two for 6, Everton had 20 minutes, and lost Webster with the score at 9. Play will resumed this evening at 6-30
Clubmoor
RL Somerville run out 40; L Nuttall c Gee b Martin 24; H Rowand c Gee b Martin 4; GJ Tompkinson c Martin b Towers 35; J Harling c Dean b Martin 5; JJ Roscoe c Critchley b Rigby 10; AM Roberts b Wilkinson 0; GA Jones c Chedgzoy by Rigby 4; S Gallach noy out 0; TJ Catclith LBW b Wilkinson 0; Extras 0; Totall 122.
Everton; - CR Webster c Roscoe b Harling 9, Gee not out 0; to bat LF Bryan, J. Towers, G. Martin, A. Rigby, WR Dean, J. Wilkinson, S Chedgzoy, Critchley, T. Kelly.

LOOKING ON THE OPENING GAME OF EVERTON’S SECOND DIVISION SERIES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 12 August 1930
PLYMOUTH NEWS
Bee’s Notes
In less than three weeks’ time, Everton will begin its long trek back to the First Division, when they meet Plymouth Argyle at Home Park.  Home Park is pleasantly situated among green fields, and has many fine beech trees round about it.  indeed, it is situated at one end of a piece of country about a mile square, which the city of Plymouth is at present busily engaged in converting into a public park.  Argyle just secured a long lease on Home Park, and have now taken in hand several alterations and improvements which have been long overdue.  The old stand which accommodated about 2,000 spectators has had its day.  It has been demolished, and its place is being taken by an 11,000 pounds structure that will seat about 5,000.  When I was on the ground about a week ago enormous progress had been made, and with men working on it in three shifts daily, there need be little doubt that it will be finished for the opening match.  Other parts of the ground that have previously been exposed are also being covered in, so that the number that can be accommodated will be increased from 30,000 to 40,000.  A crowd of fully 40,000 is expected or the Argyle’s opening game with Everton and the Everton team may look for an enthusiastic and rousing welcome.  Argyle’s supporters consider themselves very fortunate in having as their first visitors a team with such traditions behind it as the Everton team has.  And the Everton players may rest assured that any outstanding play will receive its due appreciation, no matter from which side it comes.  But the question of which side will win is the one that will engage the attention of the supporters of both teams during the next few weeks.  On the face of it, it might appear that the odds are in favour of Everton.  Their players have had a wide experience in best class football, and many have achieved fame.  Also, it need scarcely be said that they will take the straightest road that leads back to the First Division.  But the chances of Everton winning their first match are not so easily settled as this. 
EVERTON BATTING TONIGHT
Everton footballers once again provided the opposition for the annual cricket match (at which a collection is taken for the Clubmoor groundsman), which started at clubmoor last night.  There was the usual splendid crowd of enthusiasts and they had the pleasure of seeing the footballers “in bulk” on the field of play.  Dean lost the toss.  Somerville and Nuttall opened the cricket club’s innings to the bowling of Dean and Gee.  With steady batting the pair registered 57 in 35 minutes, when Somerville was run out, Webster making a swift and sure aim to remove the bails.  Chedgzoy relieved Dean, and Martin took over from Gee.  At the score Webster dropped a “sitter” from Rowlands, but with only a further twelve added.  Gee and Martin came into prominence, gee catching two off Martin’s bowling (the latter at this juncture having three victims for 8 runs).  Tomkinson and Harling came to the rescue, and the score mounted up to us, when a splendid catch, near the boundary, by Dean dismissed Harling.  The 100 was realized after seventy minutes, and a further change was made with the “attackers,” Wilkinson and Towers, showing a hand.  Martin was loudly applauded for the splendid catch he made which dismissed Tomkinson, who had been having a merry time with strong shots.  Wilkinson next uprooted the middle stump of Roberts, and disaster then came to Clubmoor, whose last four batsmen were sent back without any addition, the innings thus closing for 122.  “Mr.  Extras” scored 0.  Bravo, Bryan!  The bowling honours went to Martin who claimed four for 30, Wilkinson two for 5, and Rigby two for 6.

EVERTON AT CRICKET
August 13, 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton footballers were defeat by Clubmoor by 61 runs, Gee and Rigby resumed the innings and the pair added 38, before Rigby was caught by Somerville. At the same score Martin wicket fell further misfortune befell Everton when further batsman left for the addition of a couple of runs. The innings eventually closing at 61. Harling was in good form, and out of 18 overs had 11 maidens, and claimed eight wickets for 20.
Everton, CR Wesbster c Roscoe b Harling 0, J Kelly b Tomlinson 0, A Rigby c Somerville b Harling 22, C Gee b Harling 20, G Martin b Harling 0, Bryan c Tominson bv Harling 2, WR Dean c Somerville b Harling 0, J Thomson c Tomkinson b Jones 0, S Chedgzoy c Tomkinson b Harling 3, J Wilkinson b Harling 0,E Critchley not out 1, extras 4 total 61
Clubmoor,R Somerville run-out 40, L Nuttall c Gee b Martin 24, H Rodeland c Gee b Martin 4, TC Williams b Martin 0, G Tomkinson c Martin b Towers 35, J Harling c Dean b Martin 6, J Roscoe c Critchley b Rigby 10, AM Roberts b Wilkinson 0, GA Jones c Chedgzoy b Rigby 4, Gallagher not out 10, TJ Gatcliffe b Wilkinson 0, extras 0 total 122.

JONES JOINS GREAT HARWOOD
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 13 August 1930
George Jones, ex-Everton and Southport winger, has signed on for Great Harwood for next season. 

EVERTON’S “FIRST” DEFEAT
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 13 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
Batting for an hour and thirty-five minutes with only a break of a few minutes (owing to a heavy shower), Everton F.C cricketers could only muster half of the Clubmoor Cricket Club’s score of 122, and were then beaten by 61 runs. Gee (the new player from Stockport County) and Rigby resumed the innings, and both settled down nicely to add 38 to the overnight score of 9 when Rigby was out to a catch by Sommeville.  Martin, Bryan, Dean, and Towers were soon “in and out” for the addition of a couple of runs.  Young Chedgzoy, in conjunction with Gee, managed to help the score on to 56, but with only five more added Wilkinson and Gee’s stumps had been claimed by Harling, who unfortunately for Everton was back to his old form.  He took his eight wickets for twenty runs. 

NEW BRIGHTON SIGN DIXON
August 15, 1930. The Hull Daily Mail
New Brighton have signed centre half, Matthews Dixon, who was on the Preston North End and Everton books at one time. He is twenty-four, weighs 12st and is six feet in height.

THE STEWART
Liverpool Echo - Friday 15 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
People had said the famous old footballer, Stewart, was dead.  Mr. George Brooking writes; - as no one has told you about the two Stewarts connected with Everton –and I have been waiting for someone to do so – I will tell you the facts; this in relation to Bill Stewart, who I am glad to know, is still alive.  Stewart No. 1 came to Everton about 1893 from Burnley, which club he was captain of.  He played at left half-back, so the intermediate line was Boyle, Holt and Stewart.  I have not the least idea what his Christian name was.  Still he was a fairly good player, but did not remain more than a couple of seasons at the most with Everton going from Goodison to Notts Forest.  Just about the time he departed, Everton secured Bill Stewart from Preston North end.  He also played left-half back, so the line again read; Boyle, Holt and Stewart.  “Bill,” you may recollect, was bought out of the Army by North End.  Many people have perhaps forgotten the Burnley Stewart; it may possible have been he that died recently. 
H. Stewart writes;-
I accompanied W. Stewart to Charlie Blackburn’s place on his return from his native place in Scotland (vide cutting).  He is looking forward to the coming season, when he will be at every match, both Liverpool and Everton, as for the past ten years or so.  Should you meet Jacky Robertson, the old Everton player, remember Mr. Stewart to him.  The cutting says; “When I stood in the Western Cemetery and looked at the grave so long closed over the remains of my old comrade, my thoughts went back to our days together at Everton.” Those words were spoken by one of the greatest footballers Arbroath has ever turned out (“Bill” Stewart) to Manager Bob McGlashen and to ex-player Tom O’Kane as they chatted with Willie Young, the Forfarshire cricketer, at Lochlands.  Stewart’s reference was to the late Dave Storrier, of Arbroath, Everton, Celtic, and Dundee fame – internationalist footballer, centre-half, and full-back.  Stewart’s greatest fame was as on of the “Invincible” of the world-renowned and conquering Preston North End.  While a young man, Stewart joined the Scots Greys, and proved himself an all-round athlete.  He had the unique experience in football of winning three Irish medals while engaged with a Scots battalion.  Leaving the Greys, Stewart was home for four months, and then joined up with the Black Watch, and while playing for the team of that battalion he won other three medals.  Preston North end were a famous club at that time, and Major Sewell made it his business to get Stewart released from the Army to join the staff at Deepdale.  Very soon, Stewart became a permanent and worthy member of a worthy team.  After a successful career at Deepdale, Stewart joined Everton, which club he captained for four seasons, and he did much to “bring on” Jacky Robertson, who later became one of Scotland’s greatest international half-backs.  It is interesting to recall that Stewart played in front of Dave Stewart.  The two “Red Lichties” became bosom pals, and it was this fact that brought Stewart to the Western Cemetery during the week-end. 
EVERTON CAPTAIN
Williams had a vast experience of Second Division football before joining Everton from Swansea last season.  This knowledge should stand him in good stead.  A vice-captain has not been selected by Everton.  Williams was injured towards the back-end of the season, but now fit and well and ready for the kick-off. 

WILLIAMS TO CAPTAIN EVERTON
August 16, 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
The Everton directors have chosen Williams, the right full back as captain of, the team for the coming season. Williams while with Swansea, before joining Everton last season had considerable experience of Second division football and this knowledge should stand him in good stead this season.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 16 August 1930
By Louis T. Kelly

THE BOWLING GREEN
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 16 August 1930
A “GEARY” FINAL
By John Ward
Liverpool and District Association individual merit competition closed with a disappointing entry, but the thirty-six competitors who had qualified for the final stage included very prominent players and some fine bowling was witnessed at the association green.  The final was fought out between L.W. and Fred Geary; junior of the old international and Everton footballer, Mr. Fred Geary, the first-named crowning a fine display by carrying off the cup, silver replica, and gold medal presented by Messrs.  Lewis’s. Ltd. 

EVERTON'S BAD LUCK
August 19,1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
Everton were unfortunate in their first practice match at Goodison Park last night, as the result of a accident, the club will be derived of the service of Britton. The player, who was a right-half in the Whites team, were injured in a collision soon after the start, and had to leave the field, his place being taken by Robson, who was viewing the game from the Press box. The injury received by Britton turned out to be a broken collarbone, an unfortunate mishap. Britton who was secured from Bristol Rovers, is regard as one of the most promising young half-backs on the club's books, and he had began the game well. Everton have a wealth of half-back talent –as shown in the practice game last night –but everyone will be glad to see Britton on the field again soon. There have been a number of mishaps to players in practice games in recent years, and followers of the club may recall the case of Hardy of Everton who was injured when keeping goal, and was out of the game for some time as a result.

PRACTICE MATCH
August 19 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
BAD Start for Everton
Half-back breaks a collar bone
Progressive “White” forwards
For Everton the football season has started with a blow. Their first practice match had not been in progress more than ten minutes last night at Goodison Park before Britton, a new half-back from Bristol Rovers in the Reserves side, collided with Griffiths, and suffered a broken collar bone injury. Ten thousand spectators were present to see the material Everton have gathered in their re-election efforts. This was the first time they had been on the ground since Everton lost their status, and the reception accorded the teams (Blues, virtually the first team, won 6-2, and Whites) was rather on quiet lines. Robson was substituted for Britton, when the latter left the field so that the game can be judged in the usual way, each side being at full strength.
Reliable Goolkeepers.
Frankly, if one had not known which side was which it would have been something of a problem to pick out the supposedly stonger. There was more purpose about the “Whites” play than the Blues, especially in the forward line. Taking the match generally, it was a good exhibition of “friendly” football, and showed at least that the club has two very reliable young goalkeepers in Coggins and Sagar, each of whom vied for distinction in stopping really dangerous shots. There were several outstanding figures, notably Griffiths, whose tenacity and joyousness at being on the field again led him to give a gruelling exhibition, and one which must have pleased the followers of the side, together with McPherson, to whom nothing seems a task and everything a real pleasure. He helped to constitute a reliable half-back line. Blue Forwards' Failing.
As to the outside right position there must be those, who would advocate a further appearance of Wilkinson in preference to Critchley, for in this game, at least he showed an aptitude for making the most of his chances of taking the ball in his stride rather than wait. In fact, given good inside forwards, the Whites would have made an even better showing than they did. The failure of the Blues' insider forwards was often due to wheeling backwards, whereas McCambridge, Webster and Dunn, the latter in a freshened and enthusiastic frame of mind, were all for progress. Dean seemed to do nothing, yet when one totals up his goals –they were three in number –and adds the fact that he twice hit the upright, there can be no complaints on the score of ineffectiveness in his case. Lowe, the young Southport full-back, together with Williams, did quite well, and was playing an improved game at the finish. McCambridge was excellent. He opened the scoring. Martin equalised, McCambridge placed the Whites ahead, and Stein equalised, leaving Dean to get three goals, and Martin one late in the second half. Gee the Stockport County pivot, is a big player and with a little polish should become very useful. Teams; - Blues; - Coggins, goals; Williams (captain) and Lowe, backs; McPherson, Griffiths and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin and Rigby, forwards. Whites; - Sagar goal; Common and Cresswell, backs; Britton, Gee and Towers, half-backs; Wilkinson Dunn, McCambridge, Webster, and Stein, forwards.

EVERTON F.C.’S UNLUCKY TRIAL
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 19 August 1930
By “Buzz”
EVERTON BOW AND BLOW
Everton’s first trial had not been in progress ten minutes when Britton, a new half-back signed from Bristol Rovers, broke his collarbone in collision with Griffiths. A blow such as this only set people questioning the value of practice games.  Everyone knows how valueless they are; none more so than the clubs themselves, who are often saddled with injured before the season starts.  The first-teamer is willing to play well if such a procedure entails no extraordinarily hard work, so that, compared with the work of a non-first team player (who is straining his hardest), he sometimes comes out of the comparison with second-class honours.  Although they have lost status, Everton seem to retain their spectatorial hold.  There were 10,000 to see Blues (virtually the League team) beat Whites (virtually the Reserve side) by 6 goals to 2 in an uncommonly watchable match for a trial outing.  When Britton tackled tenaciously he met a severe bump from another severe tackler in Griffiths, and had to leave the field.  Robson took his place, so that levelness was restored, and Whites were not unduly handicapped.  If there was a lesson in the play, it concerned inside forward tactics.  White went ahead with the job, Blues “killed” the ball first, considered second, and finally almost invariably wheeled round before attempting to place it. 
ABOUT-TURN ATTACKERS
I always understood half the art of football was allowing the ball to do the work.  A ball going through and in front of a forward is put to best purpose by the player who allows the ball to do the work, but last night Blue ideas were to the contrary.  Defences like about-turn forwards; it gives them time to think and time to set themselves.  The moves they like least are those when the ball comes through so quickly that they are spread-eagled.  However, to the good things of the game.  Everton have goalkeepers.  They have Coggins; and if Coggins is not available there is Sagar, a youngster who is little less effective.  There is something “nerveless” about both, as proved last night, and the six goals put past Sagar did not mean anything to the disconcerting onlookers, who saw the goalkeeper did everything humanly possible on these occasions and occasionally something almost humanly impossible.  The big thing, on paper, was Dean’s performance.  He scored three times and hit the upright twice; one wondered how he managed to do it from so few opportunities.  Perhaps that is where Dean shines.  Certainly he did not seem to be playing in his three-goals-a-match style of two seasons ago.  A more impressive night’s work was Griffiths.  Here was a mercurial customer who could not keep still, and who did something worthwhile at every turn.  Griffiths stood out among the half-backs, just as clearly as it was plainly apparent that McPherson (like all good Scothmen) does good work by stealth!
THE BEST WING
Critchly offered up some mixed stuff at outside right, but the crowd shouldn’t have given a vocal number in a game of this kind.  The player’s first day of season 1930-31, and he is mildly barracked! No wonder players begin to think there is a dead “set” against them!  The rest seems to have freshened up Dunn.  He was part of the most successful wing on the fields.  Wilkinson was the “better half,” getting into everyone’s good books by directness and the bump of locality which tells him where the goal lay.  Whereas Critchley hesitated and was lost (after having had plenty of time to think out a move), Wilkinson took everything in his nippy stride, and made for goal nearly every time.  With good inside forwards this wing would have “made” half-a-dozen goals.  The Southport full-back, Lowe, struck a happy partnership with Williams, although, of course, he is still in the raw stage.  He is big and capable enough to be the most useful man of the Everton newcomers.  Dean (3), Martin (2), and Rigby scored for the Blues, and McCambridge (a live-wire) Whites’ two goals. 

THE OUT-LOOK AT GOODISON PARK
August 22 nd 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Perhaps the most pleasing feature of the prospects of the Everton Football Club for the coming season is the fact that there is a blend of experienced and young players who are fully cognisant of what is required from them. They quite understand the strenuous nature of next season's work, and every endeavour will be made to get back to the first League at the first attempt. Optimism at the club's headquarters is, to be great, extent, justified for Dean's return to his best state of health, and Williams having recovered from the injury that kept him out of the team at a critical period should inspire confidence all round. Williams is the new captain –a popular choice.
The players signed during the close season are all on the young side with reputations to make, and the duplicating of positions is not likely to harass the directors to the extent that prevailed last campaign. The new comes are Lowe, a left back from Southport, J. Parker, a left back from Adlington, while two half-backs, Britton, from Bristol Rovers, and Gee from Stockport County, a long with Cunliffe, an inside forward, come with good credentials. It is a misfortune for the club and players that Britton should have broken a collarbone in the practice game on Monday evening, but he should soon be fit again. There is a big departure list. Kennedy has gone to Tranmere, Attwood to Bristol Rovers French to Crewe Alexandra Weldon to Hull City, Kelly to Carlisle United Lewis to Wrexham, White (S) to Dundee, and while Davies and O'Donnell (W), are not yet fixed up, Virr has been compelled to give up the game owing to injury.
Everton team.
Goalkeepers.
W. Coggins, Sagar.
Right backs,
W. Cresswell, EW Common Ben Williams.
Left backs
H. Lowe, J. O'Donnell, J. Parker
Right half-backs
T. Robson, L. Mcpherson C. Britton,
Centre half-backs
H. Hart, T.P. Griffiths, CW Gee, JH McClure
Left half backs
J. Thomson, J. Towers, L. Bryan
Outside right
E. Critchley,
Inside right
J. Dunn, CH Webster, S. Chedgzoy, J. Cunliffe
Centre forward
J. Wilkinson, T. A White, WR Dean
Inside left
GS Martin, TCF Johnson, J. McCambridge,
Outside left
J. Stein, A. Rigby

“First we know of it’
Liverpool Echo - Friday 22 August 1930
EVERTON F.C. DENY A REPORT
SCOTS NOT BARRED 
No Distinction On Disciplinary Grounds 
A sweeping report that Everton F.C. had decided not to engage any more Scottish players met with just as sweeping a denial by the club this morning.  The secretary, Mr. Tom McIntosh, said: "If this is so, it is the first I have heard of it. Certainly, it has never been an official ' decree' not to sign Scottish players."  " “It would be ridiculous to make such a bar," continued Mr. McIntosh. "We never know when we shall need a Scottish player, and to place a self-imposed bar on our own signings would be foolish."  One Everton director termed the story “ridiculous."  Everton have spent more on Scottish players than any club in the country in recent seasons, and, as the team suffered relegation in a season in which they spent £10,000 in fees, it is not surprising to find them curbing the flow of costly Scottish players. But to impose a ban on “foreign " players, as the report has it, would be the height of absurdity.  Mr. McIntosh agreed that training conditions here are more strenuous and stricter than those obtaining in Scotland, but he was disciplined to draw any distinction between Scottish and English players, so far as discipline was concerned.  Everton's most costly Scottish captures are Dunn, Weldon, Ritchie, Thompson, McPherson (ex-Swansea), Hart, and Stein.  McPherson cost 9,000 pounds. 
INVENTION AND INTENTION
“Bee” telephones from London; “The invention that Everton’s intention is to quit visiting Scotland for players has only one answer.  If Everton forsook Scottish were the Scottish clubs would go into bankruptcy, and Everton would be without a team.” 

My Soccer Snapshots
Derby Daily Telegraph - Saturday 23 August 1930
By "Major Jink"
There is no truth in a published report that Elisha Scott, the Irish International goalkeeper of the Liverpool club, is going to play for Belfast Celtic this season. Scott may be out of the early games through an injured hand, but he is not leaving Anfleld yet. I understand he is getting his third benefit this season, and that there is a possibility he may retire from English football at the end of the campaign. Scott has always been a careful man, and is said to be one of the wealthiest players in the game. I believe he has business interests in Ireland and may finish his football career in the neighbourhood of Belfast, where he was born. By the way, the Scotts set up a family record in' international honours. William of Linfield and Everton kept goal for Ireland almost regularly between 1903 and 1913, playing ten times against England, nine times against Scotland and six occasions against Wales. Then his brother, Elisha, appeared some 19 or times for his country, and in addition Bert Mehaffy, a brother-inlaw, then with Queen's Island and later with New Brighton, kept goal against Wales in 1922.

NO BAN ON SCOTMEN
August 23 rd , 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
A report published, that the Everton directors had decided not to engage any more Scottish players, had brought a denial by the club. The story is described by Everton officially ‘'ridiculous'' Mr. Tom McIntosh the secretary said,'' it is the first I have heard of it, certainly it has never been a official decree not to sign Scottish players. It would be ridiculous to make such a bar we never know when we shall need a Scottish player and to place a self imposed bar on our own signings would be foolish.

THE FOOTBALL TRIALS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 23 August 1930
LINES AND LAUGHS AT EVERTON
A PENALTY COMEDY
REPORTS FROM THE PLAYING FIELDS
Football had its last preliminary fling to-day when thousands of people whetted their appetites at trial games.  At Everton a penalty kick was taken twice, and was saved in the first instance, and driven outside in the second. 
EVERTON TRY THEIR NEW AND OLD MEN AGAIN
By “Bee”
Everton today had their final test.  Goodison Park looked a perfect picture, and the conditions (chilly air and dull atmosphere) were in full accord with the winter game.  The first news of the day I gathered was the prospective signing of Arthur Davies, the Everton goalkeeper, by West Ham.  Exeter are in the running.  Davies, at 250 pound, is a true bargain purchase; in fact, many marvel that he should leave the city considering his record.  The teams were;- Blues; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Wilkinson, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby.  White; Sagar; Common, Lowe; Robson, Gee, Towers; Critchley, Dunn, McCambridge, Webster, Stein.  There were 12,000 spectators, and the game was voted a better one than the first trial.  Critchley and Dunne made a good blend, McPherson provided “the laughs,” and Wilkinson made the first shot, thanks to McPherson, the ball landing on the stand.  Dean and Martin were dual personalities, who kept the ball on the ground, and Robson forced the pace of the flying Critchley.  Griffiths looked upon the match as a Cup Final, and one of his demonstrations was a five-piece head juggling act. 
MARTIN AND CRITCHLEY
Webster was angled, for a shot and twice brought into the game the subtleties that make for the charm in a game, yet Martin scored that opening goal, thanks to Dean and Wilkinson making a partnership worthwhile.  Thus the Blues took the lead.   Webster took advantage of a Cresswell fall to let in Stein, whose aim was not attuned to the need of the moment to equal the famous song that bears his name.  McCambridge had few chances yet showed a power of shot which was equalled by Webster, the local being quite a success in every phase of play.  Critchley equalized for the Whites after skirting Cresswell and the outside right smashed home a left-foot drive.  James Dunne continued his revival, had Stein, though dallying, gave a pass back to Webster, whose shot brought out the best in Coggins. 
A PENALTY COMEDY
The match developed in interest when Sagar made good saves from Dean and Rigby, but the funniest thing of all came near the interval, when Everton had a penalty kick through Common pushing Dean.  McPherson’s effort from the spot kick was saved Sagar, but the goalkeeper advanced beyond his line and the kick had to be taken again.  This time McPherson shot outside, following which Wilkinson tried to loft the ball into an empty goal, and Sagar dropped back to create a surprise clearance.  Dean made a “topping” shot that seemed impossible –he trod over the ball instead of making an easy equalizer.  Half-time; Blues 1, Whites 1. 

STUB MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 23 August 1930
By Louis T. Kelly

ARTHUR DAVIES TRANSFERRED
August 25, 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Davies signed for Exeter City
Arthur Davies, the Everton goalkeeper, who had been on a fee of £2,000, which was gradually reduced to £250, has been signed by Exeter City. He left Liverpool during the week-end to fix up with the Devonshire club, whose management is now held by McDervitt, the former Liverpool footballer. Davies joined Houghton and Gray two ex-Merseyside men, who are now with Exeter City. Davies twelve months ago was looked upon as the coming goalkeeper for England, but he had lapses last season and Everton them tried Sagers, and after woulds Coggins of Bristol City. There was then no room for Davies, who was put on the transfer list. West ham and other were inclined to take him at the final fee. But Exeter got there first. Davies went to Everton after serving New Brighton Flint and others. He asked Everton to be allowed to show his capabilities as a goalkeeper and was signed on. Davies assisted Everton to win the championship three season ago. He took part in every match in the following campaign and last season figured in twenty-eight league matches. He played for the english league against the Irish league at Goodison Park. He stands 6ft 1in and weights 12st.

PRACTICE MATCH
August 25 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton's show forwards
Policy that must be changed
By “Bees”
The trail game at Everton attracted 12,000 spectators to Goodison Park, and they witnessed a lively game for a test game. The Everton side did many pretty things, and though no one takes a game like this seriously the energy the reserve side put into their play led the spectators to cheer the younger men to try to get a leading point. Actually the reserves side missed an almost certain goal, Sagar saving magnificently from Griffiths with the closing effort of the match. Everton's first side played in that tantalising manner that cost them dearly last season. They were all out for show purposes, and they will have to amend their ways in front of goal. Everyone was pleased to see the revival of Dunn, and the try-out of the bustling Wilkinson, at outside-right, was a feature of the day. Of the juniors, none did better than Webster, a local player, who has subtle football in his moves and can shoot.
Dean's deft touches.
The goals came in this order; Martin, Critchley, White (2), McCambridge, and Critchely. McPherson had a penalty kick to take, and his first shot, saved by Sagar, led to a second effort through a breach of the rules. McPherson coolly shot outside! Most of the spectators were mainly interested in the defence and the inside forwards. Dean did not exert himself unduly, but he looked fit, and many of his deft touches showed that his command of the ball and his ideals of movement are still high class.
Cresswell was tried in O'Donnell's place, and, though he appeared awkward and slipped up at times, it seems that he and Williams will be the opening pair of backs. Everton will show little change from the side that rallied during April. Will it be good enough to get back? Only actual play can answer this-trial games merely ensure those who look on and pretend to form serious judgements.
Result; Everton Blues 3 Whites 3.
Teams; - Blues; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell backs; McPherson, Griffiths, and Thomson, half-backs; Wilkinson, White Dean, Martin, and Rigby forwards. Whites; - Sagar, goal; Common and Lowe, backs; Robson, Gee, and Towers, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, McCambridge, Webster and Stein forwards .

BRAND NEW NEWS ABOUT FOOTBALL TESTS AND SIGNINGS
Liverpool Echo - Monday 25 August 1930
EVERTON’S GOALKEEPER GOES TO EXETER
By Bee, The Hive, Monday.
One man who called at my Hive on Saturday night looked fit. I refer to Arthur Davies, the Everton goalkeeper, who will always look fit, because he is a perfect example of the well-behaved, well-cared-for young man. Davies has had a quaint football life—jagged, rugged, and having some spare parts of real pleasure, not ably in Ins Swiss tour, which, characteristic of his football wobble, ended with his having to pay duty on a silk umbrella! Davies and I have been big friends all through. I knew his goalkeeping uncle well—the New Brighton “house-holder" who used to be keeper for City.  Davies had to literally force himself on clubs.  He played for New Brighton, for Flint, Harrowby, and what not.  He played on the sands to get the right idea of goalkeeping and sure-catching. He is said to have been coached by Elisha Scott in this training movement.  Davies has been the clean, compact goalkeeper. But, like James Jackson, he always found London or London clubs unlucky to him. Jackson got hurts; Davies gave goals. He lost confidence there. In the championship final game he let three simple ones go through, and no one could explain his loss of form. Against Arsenal again last season he slipped two simple ones. A goalkeeper must not do that. They don't balance his account; a slip and he is shod of his first team glory. Davies had done so well that he was voted, twelve months ago, as certain to be England’s goalkeeper. He played for the English League against the Irish League. This was to be the beginning of his honours list. But time came wheat the defence went ragged; he is said to have complained that he was barked at by fellow-member
INSISTED ON PLAYING
Arthur Davies, who travelled all day yesterday to sign Exeter, would like to have stayed at Everton to show them they were making a blunder by selling him.  He went to Everton four years ago and begged them to give him a test.  It was only when a goalkeeper (Hardy, if I remember right), got an ankle hurt, that Davies was sent for per Davie Reid.  Davies practically insisted on getting a trial with Everton, and he made good right away.  No one, handled the high ball with such alacrity; like all other tall goalkeepers he was not so good down below.  “But at least he was a gentleman and a goalkeeper.  So we are sorry to part, and sorry he has been out for so long as the summer session.  He was priced at 2,000 pound; the fee was reduced in due course to 250 –it is a remarkable drop, and one that makes one think rather furiously as to men and methods.  As Exeter he joins the ex-Evertonians “Happy” Houghton, and the ex-Anfield-South African, Gray, the full-back.  I wish him well with the management of McDervitt, the former Liverpool footballer, who now holds the reins of the Exeter club. 
WHAT DO THIRD TEAMS COST?
The “A” teams are said, by some, to be unworthy the attention paid to them.  They cost about 300 pounds a year, and that sum strikes me as infinitesimal if the Virr type can be obtained.  I don’t know whether Webster of Everton has played in that eleven, but I think he was an “A” man.  Now he is an A1 prospector for the first team standard.  He is a local, and he has some footcraft in his movement, as well as a sturdy shot.  The Everton trial produced six goals (a draw) and some evidence that the skill of the Everton attack is undoubted, yet there is a need for finally in effort that must arise when the goal is reached.  No one could enjoy the wheeling of Martin better than I –in one movement he feinted four times and gave the dummy to men who “went the wrong way.”  At the end he pushed the ball a yard too far.  That may be the natural sequel to many of Everton’s efforts.  There is need of the White and Wilkinson crash-shot at the right moment.  Too many times the players says “Not me; I’ll give it to you, and you are best placed, remember, for a shot,” And he in turn looks for another to whom he may offer the now-burnt offering! Everton went to Division 11 through matches against Birmingham, West Ham and Newcastle away.  The reason of failure in those games can easily be their downfall in Division 2.  Near goal a player well-placed for shooting must shoot; must risk all; must be a fiery man who will fire a shot at goal.  The club has its problems thus early, and though we do not think hard over trail games, realizing they are but a snare, we are still left with hopes and fears about the new Division.  Actual play can tell us a lot; trial games will not.  At any rate it is pretty plain that next Saturday we shall see Williams and Cresswell as backs, the latter man as a left flanker, Griffiths, Wilkinson, Critchley, Rigby, and others are in great heart and fettle, and of the new men commend me to the full back Lowe, of Southport, whose placing of the ball and general thoughtful play suggest he is a very good one.  Gee, of Stockport, did well, and the half-back Towers joined in the shooting with a real rocket-shot; the goalkeeping was good all through and the outlook at the moment suggests goals for, if not goals against! 

PLYMOUTH MANAGER'S TALK TO EVERTON SUPPORTERS;
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 26 August 1930 
THE OUTLOOK FOR HOME GAME; 
Donald Jack got warned this week to Miss Mollie Edmonds, daughter of the late Mr. B. H. Edmonds, formerly tennis champion of Devon and a director of Argyle.  Donald was on Bolton's pro, list for two years, but gave it up to go in for accountancy; passed his final last winter and is now with Messrs. Deloitte, Plender and Griffiths, London.  Here is a first-hand talk with Mr. Bob Jack, the Argyle manager: — Our main concern since promotion has been in connection with various schemes for increasing and improving accommodation at Home Park.  The record is 33,150 in the Cup-tie v. Bradford, 1928-29, but we hope to beat the record when Everton visit us. The old grand stand seated 1,270, and is now  demolished to make room for a more up-to-date affair satin; 3,300, while the  enclosure in front of it will take 4,000 more than the former enclosure. The new stand will be ready for the Everton match, as the men are working on it in three shifty-24 hours per day. The enclosure will not be terraced until a later season as funds permit, that remark also referring to the popular embankments.  The Argyle Supporters' Club have  undertaken to erect a large covered enclosure on one of the 1s banks, costing  about £2,000, of which they have  raised £800 by various means, and received a handsome additional donation  of £400 from Mr. A. C. Bollard, the well-known Plymouth philanthropists.  The supporters' club will clear off the balance during this season. The embankments round the pitch are fast increasing, and there is scope for development up to a total capacity of at least 50,000.
"SEASONABLE"   
The directors' liability for the improvements amounts to approximately £12,000, as new fences are being erected and other desirable alterations made. However, last season was a good one financially, a profit of about £3,000, and season tickets at this juncture are proving a great assistance. £1,000 worth having been disposed of during the past three weeks (previous best £1,250), including over 500 for the centre stand at, £3 each. The fact that the directors have not raised the price of the tickets has pleased supporters (we charge £1 ground, £2 wing stands and enclosure, £3 centre stand reserved), and individual match prices will remain 1s, 2s, and 3s. Bookings are accepted for individual matches, and there is a great rush for 3s seats for the Everton match.  The work at the ground will prevent the players training at Home Park during this month. Through the kindness of the United Services Rugby Club we shall use the Rectory Field in the forenoons, and spend the afternoons at golf or in walking excursions on Dartmoor, with occasional bathing at Bigbury-on-Sea and other quiet coast resorts near Plymouth.
NOTHING TO SPARE
We had no money to spare, continues Mr. Jack, in transfer fees, but with the exception of Craig, Russell, and Richards have signed last season’s professionals and two youngsters in David Prentice, inside left Glasgow Celtic, and John Leitch, outside left of Rothesay Victoria- both formerly Scottish junior internationalists.  They will be very useful reserves.  Also the local football was combed in the late weeks, and the list of amateurs to be tried includes; - F. Quiller (goal, Liskeard), E. J. Portass (goal, Launceston), J.Quirke (goal, Ivybridge), W.H. Tout (back, Saltash), R. D. Mottershead (outside right, Bedford Town), H.G. Richards (outside right, Truro City), S.J. Bond (inside right, Torpoint), A.J. Hatherley (inside left, Saltash), J. Worth (inside left, Woodland Villa), V.G. Hodge (inside left, Launceston), and others.  We consider that the Argyle team as constituted last season and re-engaged will hold its own in its new sphere very satisfactorily.  There is natural football talent at the club’s disposal of the highest calibre, and the team will endeavor to maintain the scientific style which has characterized it.  visibly a few of the men will find Second Division a little more robust and a bit faster than was the experience in the Third Division, but the team has been tested in Cup-ties in recent seasons against quite a number of Second Division clubs without any loss of prestige; indeed, Argyle have usually shown up as superior, so no one in the West Country doubts Argyle’s capability to face the programme with every credit.  Gates are sure to show a big increase on any previous year for enthusiasm (somewhat stifled by many disappointments in the protracted fight for promotion), which is now at fever point as the opening of the season will confirm.  Second Division clubs who have not previously played at Home Park will be delighted with the playing pitch, which has no superior.  Altogether Home Park is delightfully situated in a typically Devonshire country on the outskirts of Plymouth, but easily by bus and train. 
THE TRAUANT
It has to be confessed that I played truant yesterday.  For the first time since the idea was inaugurated I deserted the “Bee’s” Naps ‘side in their annual game with the “Echo” Bowling Club.  It had to be done; I could not let down the good folk of Wrexham F.C., who had booked a special night.  It is plain the bowls match and the aftermath were of the usual excellent character.  The “Naps” won their way through with a rare vigour and ability, and it is said that the “Echo” captain has been put on the transfer list at a reduced fee!  Ken Jones ran into a former Army friend and gave his opponent no rest and few chalks.  Laurence Geary put up another great performance, and so far has not been beaten this season.  As Mr. Ward says, “He is one of the best bowlers in Liverpool and district.”  Father Fred was there, plus cigar, and a striking tribute he paid to our excellent bowls editor, Mr. John Ward.  I just left matters in good hands, as one Bee to another B (Will Barnes), knowing that he would carry my load of effort the more worthily.  I thank Mr. Barnes for coming to my aid at this awkward period.  Here is a colleague’s report of the proceedings; - after the match players and friends assembled in the concert hall and were given a welcome by Mr. J. Moran, chairman of the “Echo” B.C., who read a telegram from Mr. Williams, secretary of the Wrexham F.C Supporters’ Club, regretting having commandeered “Bee” for that evening.  Being thus deprived of the star turn cast a gloom over the proceedings, but with Mr. T. McIntosh, the general secretary of the Everton F.C., in the chair, disappointment gave way to laughter and fun.  Mr. McIntosh said they deeply regretted Mr. Edwards’ absence and paid a tribute to his popularity and genial disposition.  Mr. Fred Geary, in proposing a vote of thanks to Mr. J. Ward, spoke of Mr. Ward’s long connection with the game of bowls, and said it was a pleasure and a compliment to be included in his team known as “Bee’s” Naps, Mr. Ward, in reply, said he was only too pleased to do anything for the game of bowls and especially for the “Echo” B.C. Mr. Stowers, captain of the “Echo” B.C., paid a sportsman’s tribute to the prowess of the opposition, and said that although they were beaten on this occasion they were looking forward to the day when they would be able to register another victory over the redoubtable “Bee’s” Naps.  During the evening Bert Jones and Fred White, comedians and patterers, Dave Reubens, with songs of love and romance, and Jim Charters, in humorous monologues, song and dance, entertained the company with a delightful programme, and thoroughly deserved the vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Herbert Barkas.  Scores;-

BILLY BROWN’S APPOINTMENT
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 27 August 1930
Billy Brown, the former Everton half-back, has been appointed player-coach for the Liverpool Cables F.C.

TEAM SELECTION FOR PLAYMOUTH MATCH
August 27, 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
The Everton directors, at their meeting last night selected the team to play Plymouth Arygle in the first division two league match, at Plymouth on Saturday. It will mark Everton debut in the second division and there are high hopes, that it will be the Goodison club's first and last season in that section. The side chosen is practically the same team that did so well in the closing games of last season, when a splendid, if unsuccessful, bid was made to escape relegation.
This is the team; - Coggins, goal; Williams and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Griffiths and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, and Rigby.
The Blues have a stiff task before them at Plymouth, but I think they will make a bold bid for victory. O'Donnell, Dunn and Johnson appear in the Reserve team to meet Leeds United Reserves in the Central League match at Goodison Park, kick-off, at 3.15. The side is a particularly strong one, namely; Sagar, goal; O'Donnell and Lowe, backs; Robson, Gee (captain), and Towers, half-backs; Wilkinson, Dunn, McCambridge, Johnson and Stein, forwards. Common I hear is suffering from a slight injury to the knee, Gee the former Stockport County centre-half, who showed much promise in the trial games has been appointed captain of the Central League side. As I have already announced, Williams is the captain of the League team. The Liverpool County FA, made the draw for the Liverpool Senior Cup; - First round –Liverpool v Everton, Semi-final –Tranmere Rovers v Liverpool or Everton, Southport v New Brighton.

EVERTON'S OPENING FORMATION:
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 27 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
Everton have chosen their side, and they have decided to bank on experience in defence by putting Cresswell as left back with the captain of the side, Williams, at his side. The half-back line is as expected and the forward line includes Critchley on the wing and the usual formation along the line, save that Johnson is not quite ready and White comes in.  As is customary with an Everton side —" it reads quite all right." This has been the case for a season or more.  Carve your way through each of the ranks and you find that there can be no complaints. Fulfilment has been their failing in recent times and I do hope the heartiness and practicability of the men will lead the team into a prominent place; start right away; and start right!  This is the team:—Coggins;  Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin,  Rigby.  O'Donnell. Dunn and Johnson appear in the reserve team to meet Leeds United Reserve in the Central League match at Goodison Park, kick-off at 3.15. The side is a particularly strong one, namely: Sager; O'Donnell, Lowe; Robson, Gee, Towers; Wilkinson, Dunn, MCambridge. Johnson, Stein.  Common, I hear, is suffering from a slight Injury to the knee. Gee, the former Stockport County centre half, who showed much promise in the trial games, has been appointed captain of the Central League side. 
ARGYLE’S SELECTED
The Plymouth Argyle side will be chosen from Cann, Bland, Titmuss, Mackay, McKenzie (or Pullen), Hardie, Crozier, Sloan, Vidder, Leslie, Black, Bowden, Pullen is indisposed.  I understand Forshaw, the former Liverpool and Everton forward, is taking a turn in Irish football and he has made arrangements to play for Waterford.  Forshaw’s skill and experience of the highest class of football should prove of immense worth. 

THE ONLY CATCH OF THE DAY
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 28 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
Where’er you go you cannot escape sport-talk.  I had a dash out to Hilbre, put myself upon an island in the belief that here one could say “Good-bye to all that.”  But who could resist the well-informed Captain Thomas who is never lonely upon an island.  He told me of the days when Everton trained there.  Nowadays those who fall by the wayside go straight to his accommodating hands for treatment.  The only “fish” on friend caught was another man’s hand, which he hooked very definitely! So there was a call for the captain who, by the way, was the pioneer of wireless in Liverpool and district, and used to provide the night concerts for the pilots before ever we heard of a B.B.C, or ethereal waves.  Although upon the island Captain Thomas keeps up continued interest in the Everton club and can quote chapter and verse for years gone by with a freedom I envy. 

SOUTHAMPTON MUST WAIT FOR EVERTON
August 29 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Arnold, the young Hampshire batsman, who is his first season has made such a deep impression on Southern enthusiasts, is also a footballer of great skill. His play for Southampton last season marked him as a player of great promise, and more will be heard of him. Incidentally, I found that one of the many Second Division centres are looking forward to a visit from Everton was Southampton, and the disappointment there that Everton are not due until the last Saturday but one of the season is great. By that time of course the bottom will be knocked out of the competition unless it happens to be a deciding match. The disappointment of the Southern port at having to wait so long can be understood when it is remembered that there is a large “Liverpool population” resident in Southampton in consequence of the Atlantic passenger traffic, while the large majority of the ships crews hail from Merseyside, and they were all looking forward to the possibility of seeing Everton oppose the Saints early in the campaign. I believe the “Legpulling” which the Merseyside fans had to undergo at the hands of their Southampton friends when Everton were relegated was heartbreaking, and they are anxious to return this in kind. It may be, of course, that Everton will celebrate their return to the upper house in this match, who knowns? In such happy circumstances, Everton would find Merseysiders flocking to the Dell in their thousands, and I am sure Alf Milward and Percy Hill, and other old Everton players, who are now in business there, would be in the front rank. The Dell is now an up-to-date ground, with two new stands, and the old padded wall which scared wig players is now but a memory.

EVERTON START IN A NEW FOOTBALL CHANNEL
Liverpool Echo - Friday 29 August 1930
Bee’s Notes
Plymouth, Friday
The long day is o’er.  The first jerk of the season has gone, and with it many hours of travail.  The team left Lime-Street Station ay 9.10 this morning, and after we landed at Plymouth at six o’clock there was still a bus ride to Princetown.  And this is our first endeavor of the football season 1930-31.  May it be the beginning of the end –of Second Division fare say I, for I come to look at the fixture list and see these dockets; From Plymouths to London for the West Ham v. Liverpool game, Monday night; Wednesday, at home to see Everton v Preston, Friday, to Middlesbrough or Liverpool’s game, and back on Saturday.  After which comes Sunday’s travel to Cardiff for the Monday evening game with our Welsh friends.  We are being choked with good things thus early.  Tomorrow, with cricket weather de-luxe, we will have to spare a tear for the poor footballer who will welter in the sweltering sunshine.  It was ever thus with football’s start, and maybe we shall see the scenes we saw in or around 1906 when the sunshine led to Woolwich and Manchester players dropping through the heat, fainting cases.  Everton one day bought handkerchiefs for the necks of their players, but did not think Elisha Scott’s brother needed one.  Said Scott to the trainer, “Gee, and does the sun not shine on me?” 
McCLURE IS RESERVE
Everton went away leaving a good impression behind them and taking with them every good wish.  They are going home from home in tackling Plymouth, because the Argyle play “that sort of a game,” and the name of the ground is Home.  What Argyle will do no one can gauge, but at least they can bank on this form for future reference.  Everton have their difficulties in defence; it seems hard upon Common that he should not be playing tomorrow, but remembering how well he played once before without getting continued inclusion.  I suggest he is not unduly perturbed.  Cresswell as a left back?  White in the forward line, these are problems that present themselves to the followers of the club, who take a very definite interest and concern in the club.  Cresswell to my mind shaped awkwardly at left back in the trial, but doubtless the club view the light ball as “his,” and look upon his experience as invaluable McClure is reserve; this young, strong man may find a place in the first team and stick to it.  Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby. 
PLYMOUTH ARGYLE
Forwards from; Bowden, Black, Leslie, Vidler, Sloan, and Grozier. 
Hardie, McKenzie or Pullen, and McKay’s half-backs. 
Titmuss and Bland, backs.
Cann, goal
EVERTON “A” AT RHYL
Britt; Parker, Taylor; Chedgzoy, Keeley, Bryan; Liggins, Cunliffe, Dyke, Fryer, Hanson, Kick-of 3.30.  Kick-off 3.30.  Chedgzoy is trying out as a half back –he was successful there last back-end. 

EVERTON MATCH RACE
Liverpool Echo - Friday 29 August 1930
SPORTING BUILDERS SUSPEND STRIKE
DIRECTORS’ APPEAL
ONLY JUST TIME TO GET GROUND READY
From our Own Correspondent
Plymouth, Friday
The builders who are on strike at Plymouth have gone back to work in order that the opening professional football league match between Plymouth Argyle and Everton may be played tomorrow.  There was a danger that the improvements to Argyle’s ground would not be completed in time for this game.  The Argyle directors made an appeal to the men, and they began work this morning as employees of the football club and not of the contractors with whom they have a dispute.  Thus tomorrow the ground will be ready, but only after a battle against time.  The men who have been on strike will receive trade union wages.  It is expected that the attendance will beat the present ground record of 33,050.  Everton, who are making their longest journey to play this League math, will spend the night at Princetown in the heart of Dartmoor. 

EVERTON'S PLUNGE
August 30 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
Everton's plunge into the second Division will give a fillip to that part of the League, for there is no doubt that the name of the Goodison Park club still enjoys a great reputation for the purely scientific game. Whether the style of play will have to be changed to suit the new conditions remains to be seen, but I am sure the team will receive a rousing welcome wherever they go to. Plymouth Argyle, one of the most consistent teams in the League, have the honour of first testing Everton, and I think it will be a good performance if Cresswell and his colleagues come out with a point, with the exception that O'Donnell is absent the team is pretty well as expected, and there are no new faces. The men are out to show that they can make a bold bid to regain the club's place, and a victory today would prove of immense valve. Much depends on how Dean leads his forwards. If the International Centre-forward can regain his form of a couple of seasons ago them all should be well, for the team on paper looks good enough. Teams; - Everton; - Coggins, Williams, Cresswell, McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson, Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby. Plymouth Argyle; - Cann, Bland, Titmuss, Mackay, McKenzie, Hardie, Crosier, Sloan, Vidder, Leslie, and Black.

EVERTON’S DEBUT IN SECOND DIVISION
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 30 August 1930
PLYMOUTH TURNS OUT IN FULL FORCE TO EE FAMOUS SIDE ONE DOWN AT INTERVAL
By Bees
Plymouth has a perfect pitch, and conditions were such that it would have been merciful had there been a cricket match.  Everyone of the huge assembly at Home Park sympathized with the players in this heat wave.  Their job was a terrible one, but enthusiasm was expected to carry them through this, their first meeting in the Second Division series- a strange coupling of a promoted side and a fallen side.  Everton had no last-moment sensations, but Plymouth lost their centre-half, Pullen, who is suffering from diabetes.  Cann, the goalkeeper, was also unwell, but he insisted on playing.  Everton stayed overnight at the famous goal place, Princetown.  They have four games in eight days, a severe testing period, with some long journeys to negotiate.  Plymouth opened their new grandstand a “posh” affair compared with their former bandbox, and the crowd was voted certain to be a record, well nigh 30,000 early on.  Surrounded by a mass of high trees, the ground was more like a Continental scene than the Homeland grounds.  Ladies were there in large numbers and the white hats of the sailors made the scene picturesque.  Mr. Jack Hayes, M.P., had to leave Princetown just before we arrived, left a message for secretary Macintosh, wishing the club a speedy return to their proper sphere.  The playing pitch was one of the finest I have ever seen, a perfect carpet.  The teams were;- Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby.  Plymouth Argyle;- Cann; Bland, Titmuss; Mackay, Mckenzie, Hardie; Crozier, Sloan, Vidler, Leslie, Black.   Referee; Mr. Pinckstone.
THE YOUNGSTERS’ DASH
Ten minutes from the start there was a sudden dash on the part of hundreds of youngsters who were lifted over the pailing and thus escaped bodily injury.  The number of ambulance cases thus far was very small, though the heat was most oppressive.  All save those in the grand stand were without cover, so that it was a mercy there was no rain, despite the natural desire or a cooler afternoon.  Plymouth got a rousing reception when they came out to make their bow in the new Division.  They sported uncommon colours –green and black.  Everton had one of the most wonderful receptions  I have ever heard given to a visiting side.  An Arsenal director looked on.  I asked him his mission.  “No mission, my dear lad,” he replied, “merely a holiday,” I have any doubts about this answer. 
WILLIAMS CAPTAIN
Williams captained the Everton side for the first time in his career, and began aright by winning the toss, McPherson exchanged greetings with Leslie, and off we went on the great ball chase.  Dean provided two neat headers, and Martin, in trying a mighty drive, turned a somersault.  Everton’s bouts of passing were a joy, and from one Dean made a leap and a charge at the goalkeeper at the right moment.  The first foul was a free kick for the home side for Griffiths making a jab tackle. 
EVERTON UNLUCKY
Coggins saved and Leslie blundered, falling back towards his own goal.  Our first shot was a blaze-away by Martin, but he did not get the ball quite right.   Critchley was rather overworked early on.  He was fast and got a corner.  This was a clear chance, notably when McPherson got the ball and hooked over.  Dean headed in perfectly and hit the upright.  Thus Everton were unlucky, for the goalkeeper was not there at the moment of impact.  Martin tried hard to convert the rebound but was crowded out by Bland, Leslie looked after Black like Trojan, but the little left-winger shot wildly.  Cresswell, on the other hand, was cheered for a dribble and clearance, and Williams made some good length clearances.  Plymouth had good ideas and swung the ball about wisely, and it was one of these moves that provided the first goal of the day.
CROZIER’S NEAT HEADER
It was a winning affair.  McPherson had just got up, and tried to find Dean.  He failed, and the ball came back rather solidly, so that Black was able to get it with only one opponent ahead.  He crossed the ball at full strength to his extreme right-band side and Crozier headed into the left-hand side of the net –a neat header, with Coggins inches off being able to tip the ball out of the way. A neat goal; time nine minutes.  One moment after the home side goalkeeper had to punch away, and Bland again saved trouble.  Thomson fell back and saved what must have been number two.  Black, rusing in, was near to netting header.  A corner to Rigby and McPherson went quite close to an equaliser.  He had to loft the ball, and got a shade too much under it.  It was clean, hard football from both sides, and the referee had no difficulties or lectures to trouble him. 
EVERTON’S GREAT HALF-HOUR
TELLING LAST MINUTES AT PLYMOUTH
WHITE’S GOAL
THRILLING FINALE TO ‘HOME’ MATCH
By Bee
In the first half Crosier scored for Plymouth.  –
V idler, the soldier, wanted little room and no encouragement to take a shot.  He was a yard out with a great drive.  Black, unmarked on many occasions by half or full-back, had a shot chance. He, too, was off the mark with a slice. Still, Vidler kept shooting, any angle and always with pace. Martin called for a ball and delayed a centre for a dribble.  Everton, however, began to make more play of an open and combined fashion, and Martin now made an overhead drive. Rigby following with an attempted half volley. Everton's forwards generally took the throws-in.  Griffiths crowded out a breakaway, in which Plymouth were always sharp and solid. Martin had a level drive at goal, and Cann patted it down cleverly to save an equaliser.  Griffiths, not seen a great deal, nearly added to a corner kick. Martin next came to the fore with a heated appeal for a penalty kick for hands against a back. Sloan and Leslie were Plymouth's provider’s, sandwiched between go-ahead good forwards. Critchley and Dean worked together for Martin's good, and this time the inside left put the ball over the bar. 
CROP THAT DIDN'T GROW. 
There might have been a crop of goals to-day. First, there was the upright save, and after that came a goal against, and graft for Everton.  Critchley made a telling centre when on the run, and Cresswell was rather easily beaten by Grozier. Everton's passing was studied and sure, especially when Cresswell took the ball up on his own account. Critchley's final centre was caught by the goalkeeper. Dean created a corner after being troubled to get his foot to a shooting chance.  Dean and Bland hacked at each other, and both were spoken to by the referee. While Hardie was being attended to for a hurt the players were sucking the sponge with relish. Sloan made the best solo dribble of the game, in which neither goalkeeper had really been bothered to any extent, though right on half-time Cann caught a Cross-  ' shot from Critchley. Leslie replied with a crackerjack shot outside, and Cresswell wound up the half with much show.  — half-time. — Plymouth Argyle  1 Everton 0.
Dean had one shot on the last gasp of the half, and was off the mark by inches with the strongest drive of the day. The local folk said this was the best side ever seen here, but that did not alter the scoreboard deficit, which was due in part to the half-backs not playing their part in backing up.  Critchley opened the second issue with a perfect centre, and for ten minutes on end Argyle packed their goal and kept Dean's headers and Critchley and Rigby out of the joy of a goal.  This was a shock action on the part of Everton—a crowding on early on.  Dean made one big hook and followed up with a very high ball over the bar when all looked for a goal through Martin and Rigby's partnership.  Martin made a long drive saved, and Cann picked up from the feet of a visiting player.  Cann made a third catch from Dean, Griffiths made two dribbles before making a move towards shooting.  These were not wise tactics near goal.  The players lasted the pace, despite the heat, albeit the sun had now gone down. Rigby's corner kick gave Griffiths a rare header, and Cann made a great catch.
TWO FOR WHITE 
Leslie also headed well, if wide, of the upright. Dean placed Critchley, who screwed the ball over the bar. The chances were there, the goals were not.  Dean to White. That is a simple explanation of the equaliser which came at the hour. Thomson had done good work, and it led to Dean neatly heading to White, who had no option but to crash the ball to loyland mark. Everton had been so much on top that this equalizer was well worthy. It really should have come early. However, its coming was a joy, and more followed.  Rigby on the extreme left followed up some touch-line delights by Dean with a centre, which White followed with a rare bang into the net.  Two goals, the lead, and a save by Coggin's sandwiched into three minutes.  This was real football excitement.  Everton had shown signs of staying much better than Argyle, and a goal was all that was needed to encourage them.  Dean had a head in it again, and Martin, close in, banged in a beauty.  Three to one at sixty-eight minutes, after nothing to one at sixty. It was a great turn round, and a shock to the natives.  Final Plymouth Argyle 2 Everton 3

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 30 August 1930
BY Louis T Kelly

August 1930