Everton Independent Research Data
FOOTBALL IN THE OFFING
August 10, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton are getting down to business this week, though in their case no public practices are being held. Activities will be confined to private trials of the many youngsters who have had their names submitted to the club. Several of these were up at the ground last week, where they went through the capable hands of Trainer Harry Cooke and indulged in sprinting and general loosening up exercises. Mr. Theo Kelly has plenty of promising talent from which to choose to fill any possible vacancies during the coming season.
CHESTER WEDDING
August 17, 1942. The Evening Express
Leading Aircraftmen Joseph Donnachie, only son of Mr. Joseph Donnachie, Scottish international footballer and former Everton player, now licensee of the Mariner's Arms, New Crane-Street, Chester, was married at St. Francis Roman Catholic Church, Chester, today to Miss Marjorle Milligan, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. Milligan, of Braemar, Townsfield-Lane, Millington, near Chester. Leading Aircraftman Donnachie, who is training to be a pilot, was well known as a footballer, and played as an amateur for Liverpool, Bolton Wanderers and Chester. The bride and bridegroom were formerly employed in the same office at Chester. The bride's father, until a short time ago, was a well-known farmer in the Sealand district.
ERIC KEEN
August 18, 1942. Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Liverpool F.C will have the services of another England international next season. He is Eric Keen, the Derby County star, who last season assisted Everton. When at Goodison Park, Keen was played either at centre-half or wing half, and I should imagine that Liverpool will include him at centre-half. Keen played in that position against Liverpool in the cup-tie. A grand player Keen was capped for England in 1937 against Wales and Ireland.
EVERTON F.C’S AMATEURS
August 20, 1942. The Evening Express.
Pilot’s Log
Everton Football Club, like many others up and down the country are not holding public trial games as in past years, but they are having private tests, and recently three of these have taken place. More than 70 players were tried out under the critical eyes of Theo Kelly, the Everton club secretary and much promising material was on view. Among these taking part were John Grant, an inside forward of High Spen, County Durham. He signed for Everton as an amateur before the war, but has never played for the Goodison Park club. He will, however, assist the club this season. Other amateurs who will assist the club are Humphreys a half back, who has represented Combined Universities in representative Redcross games. Scot Lee an inside forward who has had experience with Manchester United, and Lewis a full back, who played for Lancashire Schoolboys, 1939. Altogether, including players of last season and newcomers, Everton are signing on about 30 amateurs. They are; Ireland, Dugdale, Fowler, Griffiths, (all members of the team last season), John Grant, (High Spen), Birkett (goalkeeper), McDonald (centre-half), Finch (outside left), Lowe (outside right), all of Haydock; Humphreys (half-back), Scott Lee (inside forward), Lewis (full back), and the following Merseyside men –Ledingham, Sheridan, Daully, Lane, Ainscough, Spedding, Davie, Makin, Lang, Craney, Cuff, Dunn and Ellis (forwards), Cassidy, Chapman, Curry, and Langley (half-backs), Tuthill, and A.G. Jones (full-backs).
EVERTON’S AMATEUR LIST
August 20, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Following on their amateur trials of the past few weeks Everton have signed 27 new amateurs’ players for next season. From the Haydock district they have recruited youngsters named Birkett, McDonald, Finch, and Lowe, while from Liverpool the list reads:-
Full backs; Tuthill, and Jones (A.G)
Half-backs; Cassidy, Chapman, Craney, Curry and Langley.
Forwards; 0Ledingham, Sherdian, Daulhy, Lane, Ainscough, Speeding, Davie, Makin, Long, Cuff, Dunn, and Ellis.
In addition they have signed Humphreys a half-back who has played for the combined Universities. Lewis a former Lancashire schoolboy back, and Scott-Lee an inside forward, who had a spell with Manchester United junior side. John Grant an inside forward from Durham who was on Everton’s books as an amateur in pre-war days is now working on Merseyside and will be available. Six of last season’s amateurs have been re-signed –namely Ireland, Dugdale, Fowler, Griffiths, Miller and Cheers. Everton will thus have plenty of youngsters at their services, and when they have had coaching and experience some may be challenging for places when senior vacancies arise.
SOCCER’S OPENING TEAM PLANS
August 25, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Note
So far as Everton are concerned, their final selection for their opening match against Manchester United at Goodison Park will be made from 14 players, and all of whom assisted the club last season, if not for the whole campaign. It is practically certain that Tommy Lawton, their England centre-forward, will play, and the attack is also likely to include Mutch (Preston N.E.) and So, of Stoke City, who formerly played for Prescot Cables and Liverpool Schoolboys. Mercer (England International) and Tommy Jones (Welsh international) will be available for the intermediate division. In regard to Billy Cook is away on a special course and will not be available for a week or two. The only position definitely decided on its goal and here Burnett will again operate. Everton (from) Burnett; Jones (J.E.), Jackson, Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (T.G.), Jones (H.), Watson; Anderson, Bentham, Mutch, Lawton, Stevenson, Soo.
EVERTON’S STRONG SIDE
August 25, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton will open next season’s programme at Goodison Park on Saturday with one of the most attractive games, for Manchester United who are the visitors, can still field a first class side. Suring the past two winters the Old Trafford team has rattled up some high scores, particularly so when Rowley their centre forward was hitting the bull’s eye week by week with hat-trick and more and we couldn’t have asked for a better opening game than this. I understand Tommy Lawton is almost certain to play. No doubt Everton –and others –will have many disappointment this season, concerning players, most of whom will not know until the last minute whether they can make the journey or not, but Lawton was very definite when he told me a fortnight’s ago that he would be available for the opening match. Everton will be without Billy Cook who is undergoing a course in the South so George Jackson figures in the fourteen names which have been provisionally selected. Jackson has been general utility man since the war started, having occupied a position in every department from goal to centre forward. Norman Greenhalgh, who was laid aside for some time last season with an injured leg, and now fully recovered and will make, has reappearance, but in case of emergency Jack Jones is also named as a probable.
Halves Plentiful
Everton are particularly well off in the matter of half backs. Tommy Jones who expected to be moved some time ago, is still in the neighbourhood though for how long nobody can say. He will, however, play on Saturday, along with Mercer, and either Harry Jones or Gordon Watson. Six forwards have been choose, and Lawton turns out he should have a good game, for George Mutch, –the through pass to the open space. Last season Lawton got too few of this type, and with his increased speed –he told me he had recently “clocked in” at only two-fifths over ten seconds for 100 yards his co-forwards should pay special attention to this type of pass, which is invariably a winner to a player with a quick burst of speed and the fiery shot which Lawton has in either boot. Soo, the Stoke City forward come half-back, is included in the attack, and we only need to recall Soo’s great games last season to realise what a difference he makes. Stevenson, Bentham, and Anderson are also named, so it will be seen that Everton can put a smart team in the field. Soo and Stevenson made a sparkling wing on the few occasions they were together last season, reminding us, of the Haledon days of the Stevenson-Coulter combination at its best. Here are the fourteen selected players from which a final choice will be made; Everton:- Burnett; Jackson, J.E. Jones, Greenhalgh; Mercer, T.G. Jones, H. Jones, Watson, Anderson, Bentham, Mutch, Lawton, Stevenson, Soo.
EVERTON SELECTION
August 28, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton, although at home, face a stiff opening test, for Manchester United will be the opposition. The Blues will have strong representation in all departments, although the exact composition of the side is not yet settled. Tommy Lawton definitely will be available for the centre-forward position and thus the attack is given greater penetrative power. Everton will need to be at their best, for the United including Breedon, Griffiths, and Roughton, will take some beating, like Everton, the United have not definitely decided on their attack. It will be chosen from six players, including Bryant, the former Wrexham player. Everton, whom I take to open with a win, will choose their eleven from the following 14 players. Everton:- Burnett; Jackson, J.E. Jones, Greenhalgh; Mercer, T.G. Jones, H. Jones, Watson, Anderson, Bentham, Mutch, Lawton, Stevenson, Soo. Manchester United; Breendon; Griffiths, Roughton; Warner, Porter, Whalley; (from) Bryant, Carey, Smith, Patrick, Morris, and Pearson.
EVERTON’S OPENER
August 28, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton set the ball rolling for the home folk with a visit to Goodison Park by Manchester United, which should provide a good send-off and a tight game. United have been among the top-notchers of war-time football, and though like everybody else there is no finality about their team selection until the last minute, they hope to turn out a side comparable with last season. Everton also expect to show little change in their ranks, at any rate for the time being. Cook is a temporary absentee, but in Jackson and Jones they have capable deputies, while the return of Greenhalgh will also be another strenghting link. Half back positions are well filled with Tommy Jones and Mercer still available, and so long as Soo, Lawton and Stevenson are in the attack Everton need not worry. The problems will come when they aren’t there! Soo’s inclusion made a tremendous difference to Everton last season in the two matches in which he played. If he is available more frequently this winter and Lawton also, then the Blues’ forward trouble will only be little ones. Tomorrow’s teams will be selected from Everton:- Burnett; Jackson, J.E. Jones, Greenhalgh; Mercer, T.G. Jones, H. Jones, Watson, Anderson, Bentham, Mutch, Lawton, Stevenson, Soo. Manchester United; Breendon; Griffiths, Roughton; Warner, Porter, Whalley; (from) Bryant, Carey, Smith, Patrick, Morris, and Pearson.
• Everton “A” play Randles Rootes away, on Saturday
BREEDON’S BRILLIANCE
August 29, 1942. Evening Express
Everton Fail With Penalty Kick
By Pilot.
There was a late start at Goodison Park today, Manchester United being delayed on their journey. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack), Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer (captain), Jones (Tom) and Watson, half-backs; Bentham, Mutch (g) (Preston North End), Lawton, Stevenson, and Anderson (Third Lanark), forwards. Manchester Utd;- Breedon, goal; Griffths and Roughton, backs; Carey, Porter, and Whalley, half-backs; Bryant, Smith, Catterick (Everton), Pearson, and Mitton, forwards. Referee; Mr. W.H.E. Evans, Liverpool. Everton included seven of the pre-war championship team, their only “guest” players being Mutch and Anderson. Joe Mercer captained the side. The United had only one “guest” this being Harry Catterick who is an Everton player. The United had no opportunity for changing en route, and so it was not until 3.42 that the game began. Everton started strongly, but a penalty line free kick availed them nothing, and then Tom Jones put paid to a quick move by Catterick. Anderson forced Griffiths to concede a corner before Catterick came back and set the United attack in motion and then carry it on. His centre, however, fell behind.
Burnett’s Save.
Burnett saved at full length from Smith, before Mitton had cut close in to open the way for Pearson. Greenhalgh timed his intervention perfectly, and the danger was averted. The United were proving lively raiders, and only quick intervention by Tom Jones, Greenhalgh and Mercer kept them at bay. Lawton was twice held up when he tried to race through, but when he eluded Porter and turned the ball across for Anderson, who shot first time, and Breendon saved brilliantly at the foot of the post. Burnett had to step lively to clear when Tom Jones was hard pressed by Catterick, and when Porter conceded a corner when challenged by Lawton, it led to a terrific siege of the United goal. Stevenson, Anderson, and Lawton all drove in shots from short range, but they cannoned back of Breedon and his backs. Next Stevenson completely outwitted Roughton to cut close in and push the ball over to the in-running Lawton.
Penalty Miss
Breedon, however, dived out to save magnificently. In 36 minutes came a big thrill when Everton were awarded a penalty against Griffiths. After much discussion as to who should take the kick, Lawton shot almost straight at Breedon, who promptly fisted away with one hand. United were fortunate when Stevenson –Everton’s most potent raider –took a shot on the half volley which had Breedon beaten all the way, but Griffiths headed behind for a corner.
Half-time; Everton 0, Manchester United 0
Everton took command on resuming without being able to shake off the terrier-like United defenders. Stevenson broke through but the superlative Breedon once again saved at full length. Everton took the lead in 60 minutes when Anderson broke through from Lawton’s pass to give Breedon no chance.
EVERTON DRAW AT GOODISON
August 31, 1942. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 2, Manchester United 2
By Ranger.
Everton’s opening game of the season at Goodison Park against Manchester United was rather disappointing and scrappy. Though forty minutes late starting, owing to Manchester’s train being delayed, the 9,000 spectators waited with extremplary patience and it was a pity they were no better rewarded. During a goalless first half United were slightly the more dangerous in attack, but their finishing was poor, and apart from one good full length save from Smith. Burnett was never seriously troubled. Everton shooting was little better though Anderson hit the post and Stevenson and Lawton each had two good attempts.
Penalty Saved.
A penalty taken by Lawton for an offence by Griffths on Anderson was saved by Breedon. All the excitement was crowded into the second half, which produced a more fiery display from both sides and four goals in the last twenty-eight minutes. Everton got two through Anderson and Mutch and with such a lead on such a day should have made sure of winning. But their period of superiority gradually faded out, and United were worthy of a draw for their fighting spirit and determination. Burnett was late going down to a Pearson shot which reduced the deficit after the inside man had made a brilliant solo run, and Catterick got the equaliser. The same player a few minutes earlier had a good chance presented to him when Mercer erred in passing back and only a bright bit of “juggling” by Burnett saved the position.
Sound Defence
On the whole the defences had the opposing forwards well in hand, and though there were occasional anxious moments in front of either goal, as a general rule the rearguard were so sound and covered up so well, that the shots of real note were few and far between. Burnett, Greenhalgh, Jones (T.G.), Mercer, Stevenson and Lawton were Everton’s best, though Lawton got few chances against a centre half who stuck to him like a leach. United were well served by Breedon, Roughton, Porter, Smith and Mitton. The latter remembered for his association with Tranmere was excellent in the second half, and Jones (J.E.) had an unhappy time against him. Attendance 9,073, receipts £535. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack), Greenhalgh, backs; Mercer (captain), Jones (Tom) and Watson, half-backs; Bentham, Mutch (g) (Preston North End), Lawton, Stevenson, and Anderson (Third Lanark), forwards. Manchester Utd;- Breedon, goal; Griffths and Roughton, backs; Carey, Porter, and Whalley, half-backs; Bryant, Smith, Catterick (Everton), Pearson, and Mitton, forwards. Referee; Mr. W.H.E. Evans, Liverpool.
• Liverpool beat Wrexham 4-3 at the Racecourse Ground, Nieuwenhuys, Polk (Penalty), Mills, and Liddell for Liverpool and for Wrexham, White (Penalty) Frost, Graham, Polk also missed a penalty kick, saved by D. Jones.
FIGHTING FINISH
August 31, 1942. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Manchester United seemed to be late all through on Saturday, when a fighting rally brought them a well-deserved point at Goodison Park against Everton. They were delayed on the journey so the kick-off was 40 minutes after schedule, and the United were late in getting down to soccer business, for it was not until the last 20 minutes that they began to appreciate that shooting can bring results. Manchester’s late arrival is a foretaste of something we must expect this season. Clubs can only travel by road within a radius of 50 miles if there is no alternative means of transport. My advice to managements is to set out as they can gather their players together. We cannot expect things to run like clockwork these days. I did admire the patience of the Goodison crowd, however, as they waited for the appearance of the players. There was hardly a protesting voice. Their reward was rich, for the Blues and the United provided a hectic fast-moving if not ultra-classic exhibition. The game was marked more by its intensity than skill. It was cut-and-thrust stuff throughout with the United rather the more accomplished in their control and combined skill. Territorially Everton held the balance, but their forwards over-crowded a little too much and so lightened the task of a brave luck-blessed defence who worried not if they were a trifle unorthodox so long as they kept their goal covered. Breedon defied Everton for an hour and actually saved a penalty taken –after much debate –by Tom Lawton, but then fell to precision shots by Anderson and Mutch, the Blues only “guests.” Twenty minutes to go and unfortunately there was a tendency for some Everton players to ease up. It was fatal. The United battled back, and when Bentham erred they swept through to score per school-master Pearson, who was aided by an offside appeal, and then Everton’s own Harry Catterick levelled matters. Good for Everton that Tom Jones struck his best form during the closing period or they would have lost. It was at half-back where United had the pull. Long-serviceman Porter held up Lawton, and Carey and Whalley were the driving force behind the attack. The home forwards received such good support as that of the Carey-Whalley calibre, and apart from an occasional neat touch by Mutch it was Alex Stevenson who provided the choicest of the Blues attacking endeavour. Stevenson was brilliant, while Greenhalgh was the big man of the defence. This Everton was a trifle patchy, but for all that they will prove a power in the League.
EVERTON SACRIFICE A POINT
August 31, 1942. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s opening game with Manchester United was forty minutes late, and though we missed the band to pass the time, the crowd displayed excellent patience. It was a pity the display which followed did not come up to expectations. It was a scrappy and rather disappointing game, due partly to the conditions but chiefly to the tight hold kept by the defences on the opposing attacks, and to the ineffectiveness of the latter in front of goal. Neither side had many chances and scorned what they had by hasty and erratic shooting. The best shot of the match was Pearson’s first goal for United a pile-driver which rounded off a brilliant solo run. Prior to this Everton had got a couple through Anderson and Mutch, just after the hour, and looked to have the game well won, only to find the visitors staging a grand fighting rally to snatch a well-deserved point. The equaliser was scored by Catterick on loan from Everton to United, and only a smart bit of “juggling” by Burnett prevented the same player getting an earlier goal when Mercer erred in passing back. A dull, first half was partly relieved by a more entertaining second portion, though at no stage even then did play reach a high standard. Lawton found Porter sticking so closely that he rarely had a chance, yet the managed occasionally to deliver those characteristic shots on the half-turn, without just getting the full pace or right direction. Jones and Mercer were excellent at half back, Greenhalgh showed all his old judgement in interception and Burnett was sound in goal. Jones (J.E.) had a bad day against Mitton, the former Tranmere winger, who played a grand game, and was the best forward on the field in the second half. The crowd of 9,073 (receipts £535) was a good one considering the rival attractions of the day, and showed that if conditions remain as at present football can anticipate an even more successful season than last term.
August 1942