Everton Independent Research Data
HOLD WANTS A MOVE
August 8, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Oscar Hold Everton’s inside forward has not re-signed for next season although he has been offered maximum terms. His reason for withholding his signature is that he wants to go South. Any club within thirty miles of so of London would suit him. Hold signed for Everton in February of last year when Chelmsford City being brought to Goodison by Manager Cliff Britton who had been with him in the Army. Previously he had experience with Notts County, Aldershot, and Norwich City. In all he has made 23 first team appearances and when the ball has been but in front of him has proved himself a useful marksman, always ready to have a go. Though he is not so young, Hold remains in football because of his love of the game. He has two flourishing business in Cromer, one of the prettiest spits on the Norfolk coast and could leave soccer –if he felt so incline without any fear regarding his future. But so long as he can find a regular place in some team he prefers to carry on.
EVERTON TEAMS
August 9, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
For Saturday’s practice match at Goodison Park, Everton field what is likely to be their first team against the probable Central League side, the teams reading;- Blues; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Fielding, Potts, Catterick, Parker, Eglington. Whites; O’Neill; Clinton, Saunders (G.); Donovan, Falder, Lello; McNamara, Hampson, McIntosh, Buckle, Easthope.
During the course of the game other players will be brought into the sides, including Leyland, Rankin, Forshaw, Lindley, Gibson, and Hickson.
The form of Cyril Lello will be watched with particular interest. After his long journey back to fitness following a stubborn knee injury; Lello will probably take a little while to regain peak form, but once he does he is sure to force himself into senior consideration. The inclusion of Buckle at inside left in the White eleven is also interesting. Although much better at outside left than outside right, circumstances have been such that in the first team Buckle has had tom operate on his wrong flank. He has played with the Central League side at outside left. Now he gets a change to show what he can do in the inside berth. Not all Everton directors will see Saturday’s game. Two at least Messrs Lake, and Coffey will be up in Scotland and not on holiday either.
NEARLY 30 PLAYERS IN EVERTON TRIAL
August 9, 1951. The Evening Express
Wally Fielding Retains Outside-Right Position
By Pilot
Everton will parade nearly 30 players at Goodison Park on Saturday when they stage their only public practice match in readiness for the Second Division season. This will be made possible by half-time changes. Manager Cliff Britton wants to gave a public show to as many as possible and has ready to slip into the teams at half-time players like goalkeeper Leyfield, Rankin, Forshaw, Lindley, Gibson, and Hickson. Apart from Rankin and Lindley these are players of whom we hear so much but whom we do not often have the chance of seeing in action in the top circles. A point of interest about the teams chosen to open the match (the kick-off will be 3.0 p.m.) is that Manager Britton is confirming with Wally Fielding at outside right, and that Ted Buckle is being experimented with as an inside left, a position he occupied many times in Manchester United’s League eleven. There will be a warm re-welcome to Cyril lello, who will be at left half in the Whites team.
Worked Wonders
Lello has been out of football apart from the odd game, ever since January 1949, when he suffered a knee injury at a vital stage in Everton’s F.A. Cup run. The injury persisted for a long time and then Cyril had to undergo a cartilage operation. A spell at a rehabilitation centre worked wonders with him, and now he is back absolutely fit and showing excellent form in the private trials. Harry Catterick will lead the Blues forwards, with Jimmy McIntosh in the Whites team, while John Willie Parker holds his place in the Blues side which he occupied during the closing stages of last season. Blues; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Fielding, Potts, Catterick, Parker, Eglington. Whites; O’Neill; Clinton, Saunders; Donovan, Falder, Lello; McNamara, Hampson, McIntosh, Buckle, Easthope.
EVERTON’S AIM
August 10, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s aim this season needs no stressing. It is to regain their senior status at the first time of asking. It will be no easy task, and to be candid, I cannot see them achieving it though nobody will be more pleased if I turn out wrong. It is likely to be some considerable time before Wainwright is able to play but there is consolation in the fact that Lello tells me he is feeling as fit as a fiddle once again. Here’s wishing him a speedy return to his former standard of excellence. Everton’s teams for the start will be;- Blues; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Fielding, Potts, Catterick, Parker, Eglington. Whites; O’Neill; Clinton, Saunders (G.); Donovan, Falder, Lello; McNamara, Hampson, McIntosh, Buckle, Easthope.
PROMISING YOUNGSTERS IN EVERTON TRIAL
August 11, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork
Blues;- Sagar, goal; Moore and Lindsay, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Potts, Catterick, Parker and Eglington, forwards, Whites;- O’Neill, goal; Clinton and Saunders (G.), backs; Donovan, Falder, and Lello, half-backs; McNamara, Hampson, McIntosh, Buckle and Easthope, forward. Referee Mr. A. Jones (Rainhill). There was only a meagre crowd for Everton’s practice game at Goodison Park today. There were, however, contributory factors, one being the drizzling rain, the other the practice game at Anfield which means that forces were divided. I don’t think I have ever seen the Goodison pitch look in better trim. It was almost like a billiard table, which would be conducive to good football. The Blues were made up of what is likely to be the first eleven. The Whites were composed of several promising youngsters and during the game others were to be introduced. This gave the spectators a chance of seeing some of the lads they seldom see. Naturally, the main attraction was the reappearance of Cyril Lello, who is now reported fit after his long absence. I saw him during the week and he told me his leg was fine. Right on time the game started and with a slackening off of the rain many people came out of hiding from underneath the stands. The Whites were soon into their stride, and McNamara showed a fleetness of foot and some ideas when winning a corner. This he took and landed the ball close in under the bar where Sagar safely brought the ball clear. O’Neill ran a long way out from his goal to collect the ball, them finding a Blue man close at hand, he decided the best way to deal with the affair was to kick clear. Eglington, with a perfectly controlled pass found Fielding, and there were possibilities that the Blues would move forward, but the promise was not fulfilled. Fielding returned the compliment and Eglington went on to gain a corner. This he put under the bar but O’Neill flipped it over. His second attempt was dealt with without the goalkeeper being called upon.
Perfect Passes
There was a lot of nice football without the bite of a competitive match, and I liked the way Lindsay cleared his lines. He made use of the ball, putting up some perfect passes to his colleagues in front of him. Lello had also shown that he should not be long getting back to his pre-injury form, which will be welcome by every member of the team. Parker made a header which was close and Hampson had a fiery shot. When he was given a second chance he kicked round the ball, but taken all through the younger members were showing up quite well. Easthope was quiet for a time, because for most of the play the Whites had been on the other wing, but when he did get a chance he cracked in a rasping shot which flew inches wide of the target. Catterick tried to hook one in from the dead ball line, only to see the ball bump against the upright. The Blues were naturally the cleverer side. They had more moves up their sleeves, sometimes one too many. On the other hand the Whites more direct type of play appeared likely to bear fruit, but the finishing of both sides had not been a great feature of the game. Eglington slewed a shot well wide of the mark, and so did Parker, but the game had its interest in that it produced a youngster or two who should be knocking at the door in due course. A back-pass by Lindsay made Sagar move smartly and O’Neill must have been pleased to see a Catterick shot swish outside. McIntosh moved to all points of the compass in an effort to find a opening and one of his best shots had only one fault, the line of direction. Fielding and Potts dovetailed nicely, but the crowded would have liked to see a goal. They saw a shot from Fielding from a difficult angle taken confidently and well by O’Neill, whose catch looked like that of an Ikin. Clinton was having a good innings, and Hampson almost caught the Blues defence on one foot when he ankled the ball close to goal. He had his back towards Sagar at the time, so his endeavour was canny. Potts finding his way barred slipped a ball out to Fielding who fired strongly to the far side of the goal, wide of the woodwork –but in the right spot for Eglington. The Irishman, however, hooked the ball outside. Thereabouts there was a spell of shooting. O’Neill had to make one or two good saves, one in particular from Potts. It was a rising ball, which the young Irishman pulled down in true goalkeeping fashion. He also had to dive across the goal and push out a shot from Farrell. Buckle also entered the shooting gallery, but on each occasion he did not call upon Sagar. It had been quite entertaining and Hampson was one of the men who gave promise of better things to come. Just on time Lello offered McNamara an opportunity of distinguishing himself with a goal but the tall winger was over anxious and he crashed the ball outside. It should really have been a goal. Half-time; Blues nil, Whites nil.
Several changes were made in the second half. In the Whites’ team Leyland took the place of O’Neill, Rankin for Saunders, Forshaw for Falder and Hickson for McIntosh. In the Blues, Lindlay was at centre half and Gibson came in for Fielding. We saw more shooting in the first 10 minutes than we had done during the whole of the first 45. Potts had three excellent shots saved, and Sagar had to move swiftly to prevent a Hickson header from finding its billet. Catterick had a pile-driver cannoned away. Hickson was injured early on and again a little bit later, when he had to be taken to the touch line to receive attention. He was soon back. The Blues took a corner and Leyland showed good judgment when he went to fist a ball from off Potts’ head and followed with a superlative save from Grant when he edged a fast ball over his crossbar. This young man who is highly built, made an even better save when he threw himself sideways to stop a hot Catterick drive. Most of the play had been close to the White goals area, but there was a case when the Whites attack sped away and delivered a shot which Sagar had to treat with the utmost caution. Hickson had to leave the field and in his place came a lad named G. Kirby. Lello made a long shot that nearly took Sagar by surprise for it was only in the last second that the Blues goalkeeper put the ball over the bar. Buckle came along with a nice run and a left footed shot which seemed certain to pass inside the far upright but Sagar threw himself sideways and with his left hand edged the ball round the post. Leyland was the highlight of this half, for he came along with another good save from Gibson. The Blues had a fair share of attack, but at last the Whites came more into the picture and the Blues defence could not take any liberties with the Whites very lively forward line. With three minutes to go Parker scored for the Blues. He took a centre from Gibson and simply swept it into the net in a manner against which the opposition could do nothing. The attendance was 4,178. Final; Blues 1, Whites Nil.
EVERTON SOUND IN DEFENCE
August 11, 1951, The Evening Express
At Goodison Park which looked a picture there were no new players on parade at the outset, and the attendance was one of the smallest I can remember for an Everton trial. Blues;- Sagar, goal; Moore and Lindsay, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Fielding, Potts, Catterick, Parker and Eglington, forwards, Whites;- O’Neill, goal; Clinton and Saunders (G.), backs; Donovan, Falder, and Lello, half-backs; McNamara, Hampson, McIntosh, Buckle and Easthope, forward. Referee Mr. A. Jones (Rainhill). The Whites opened by forcing a corner, through McIntosh off Farrell but Sagar leapt high to make the catch as he fell. When Potts headed the ball across to Parker following a spirited run by Catterick, Parker tried a cute overhead which Saunders turned behind for a corner. The Blues forced two corners on the left which produced nothing more than a safety tip over by O’Neill, and then Donovan and Hampson showed neat combination until Jones interned. O’Neill had to save a short header by parker and then McNamara and Hampson delighted with the speed and accuracy of their short passing. McNamara pushed the ball for Hampson to come in with a shot which Jones just managed to block. Centres by Eglington and Fielding brought considerable worry to the Whites defence, and when Parker lobbed the ball across Catterick tried to glide it through but the ball spun up, struck the outside of the post, and went behind. Hampson was using the ball exceptionally well, and now he swing it wide for Easthope to go to the edge of the penalty area and make a magnificent cross shot which literally sizzled over the top. A grand effort this. From Fielding’s centre Parker tried a header from close range but got too far under the ball and it went over.
Sound Covering
There was plenty of nice constructive football but the sound covering by the defences cut down shooting space. Eglington picked up from Potts and his half-centre, half-shot almost became a sitter until Falder dashed across to put the ball behind. Then McIntosh swinging around with his right foot, drove past the far post. Obviously for experiments purposes Eglington and Parker had been operating for the most part in each other’s positions in a game in which there was little to choose between the sides and in which there was some quite good football. O’Neill made a good save low down from Catterick and Clinton was applauded for a magnificent intervention of a pass intended for Eglington as his quick “killing” of the ball enabled him to sweep forward and place low into the goalmouth. Hampson tried a neat back-heel which would have surprised most goalkeepers, but not Sagar who dived full length to save. O’Neill made a magnificent full length save from Farrell and then saved well from Potts before Buckle in trying to place past the advanced Sagar, placed beyond the far post. McNamara was only just off the mark with flying header from Lello’s centre.
Half-time; Blues 0, Whites 0.
Five Changes
Half time changes were Lindley for Jones and Gibson for Fielding in the Blues side, while in the Whites, Rankin came in for Saunders, Forshaw for Falder, and Hickson for McIntosh. Hickson began with a burst down the middle, but Sagar came out to make a pick-up. But the Whites were quickly back again, forcing a corner, which was cleared. Hickson showed plenty of dash, but one of the best chances came the Blues way when Potts found himself in front of goal with only Leyland to beat. He delayed his shot, and Forshaw came from behind to make the winning tackle. The goalkeepers took the lime-light, firstly Sagar with a full length save when McNamara headed Easthope’s centre towards the bottom corner of the net, and then O’Neill with a superb tip away of a grand shot, and again when Catterick drove in powerfully from close in. Potts joined the shooting gallery with two drives which were only just wide and in a Whites’ attack Buckle had a shot calmly cleared by Sagar. Hickson took a knock in the face in a goalmouth duel and had to receive attention from the trainer. He resumed but was obviously groppy and after leaving the field for further attention he eventually came off altogether, Kirby taking his place. The newcomer was quickly on the mark with a lobbed shot which Sagar did well to turn over the top and the Blues’ goalkeeper had to make two grabs at the ball when McNamara dropped his corner kick on the six yard line. It looked all over a goal when Buckle weaved his way through the Blues’ defence, but the incomparable Sagar was there again with a dive which put the ball on to the post and away out of danger. Whatever else we had seen this half the goalkeepers had provided the thrills and O’Neill, not to be out done, next went up to punch away from Gibson, as the Blues came through with a pattern weaving attack. A goal came after 87 minutes when Parker ended a period in which the Blues had been on top, by driving a Gibson corner into the bottom corner of the net, well away from O’Neill. Final; Blues 1, Whites 0.
EVERTON NEED MORE PUNCH
August 13, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Blues 1, Whites 0
There were no new names in the Everton practice teams at Goodison Park on Saturday, but it was not so much that which kept the crowd down to just over 4,000 as the inclement weather. What do these practice games tell us? Very little, for while one team is strolling through the game the other –usually the Whites –strive tooth and nail to lower the colours of the seniors. Everton’s game did show us some promising youths who will one day, no doubt be knocking at the door of the senior side. Most clubs are taking the long-term view in these days of exaggerated transfer fees and while it is one which is to be commended, can Everton wait for that day? Now in the Second Division their great aim must be a return to the top flight of football, but the question is have they the team to bring them back to that place? Let me tell you of some of the youngsters Manager Cliff Britton has gathered around him.
Sagar Successor?
First and foremost I must name Leyland’s a goalkeeper who distinguished himself on Saturday. He did much to keep the Blues score down to a Parker goal, scored in the dying minutes of the game. He showed a keen eye, a strong pass of hands and anticipation in saving shots that would have beaten more experienced goalkeepers. In fact Leyland had all the essentials of a first-class goalkeeper which is good news, for Sagar cannot go on forever. O’Neill also played well. Another joyous note is that Cyril Lello seems to have thrown off the effects of his leg injury and with a little more practice will recover his known form. His passing was good. Another who “used” the ball was Lindsay, Scottish full back who has speeded up since last season. Hickson was injured early on and left the field, so we did not see much of him; McNamara showed winging ideas, but I liked Hampson, as good as any of the young members although Easthope ran him close. Buckle at inside left was only foiled of a goal through a masterly save by Sagar. Clinton, Rankin, and Forshaw did well, but the Blues side were naturally the better tacticians without making too many calls on the opposing goalkeeper in the first half. There was plenty of good combination but there is still some striking force needed in the attack. They did have a go in the second half.
EVERTON’S YOUTH
August 13, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s practice game, produced only one goal and that in the fleeting minutes of the game so it was the same old tale –come good football without the necessary finish. This may keep paradoxical in view of the many fine saves made by Leyland, who is not going to be kept out of the first team for long if this is a sample of his normal goalkeeping. But what do trial games tell us. Not a great deal for which the Jackson-edged first team takes things more calmly the “Second” team is more virile out to work a fast one on their seniors, if it is at all possible. As a trail game this Goodison Park “try-out” was interesting because some of the football was of good class, but it was plain to be seen that the Blues were the superior craftsmen. There were more intricate, pulled out more moves to counter-act the more lively play of the opponents (writes Stork). But there was still the need for a more punishing attack when the goal was sighted it was not until the second half that they really tried their skill at shooting and then we saw Leyland bring off marvelous saves from Potts and others. Sagar also brought down the house with a wonder save from Buckle. But you all know the form of the older players so I will give you my impression of the younger members of the club. One or two will soon be knocking at the door of their seniors and one of them should be Hampson, the inside right, a forceful forward who was strong on the ball and a thought for the right pass. Alongside him was McNamara a promising winger who had the thoughtful Lindsay in opposition. The Scot has speeded up and preferred to pass rather than the usual mode of the speculative big clearance. Clinton was more constructive than usual and played a good game. Cyril Lello seem to have fully recovered from his leg injury. He kicked well, tackled convincingly and passed nicely, the three essentials of a successful wing half-back. A few more games and Lello will be something like the old Lello successful in every department. Hickson went off the field following a head crash, so we did not have much chance to seeing what he could really do against Jones or Lindley. Forshaw and Falder were useful in breaking down attacks. Gibson who came on for Fielding in the Blues side has the appearance of a winger and supplied the pass from which Parker scored. He did one or two other things which impressed but it was Leyland who stole the thunder. He had no chance with the shot that beat him but some of his other saves bordered on the miraculous and he received an ovation from the 4,178 people who braved the weather –it drizzled all through the match.
DEVELOPMENT’S UNLIKELY
August 14, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Although Everton have contacted Bradford regarding Billy Elliott – as reported in our later editions last night – I gather it is unlikely that they will make any bid for his services. Elliott who has refused to resign for Bradford can play either outside left or left half. He scored four goals from the extreme wing in last season’s opening match against Barrow and altogether got 14 goals in 44 League games. Elliott who visited Wolverhampton yesterday has decided not to sign for the Midlanders club. Don’t be surprised if he ends up at Sunderland.
EVERTON’S 200 TRIALISTS
August 15, 1951. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton have given trials during the past few weeks to more than 200 junior players and Manager Cliff Britton is highly satisfied with some of his “finds.” Last season Everton’s eight junior teams almost swept the board in their various competitions and it is the intentions of the Blues to run a similar number of clubs this season. It has taken a long time and plenty of hard work to sort the wheat from the chaff but Mr. Britton said; “It has been well worth it and we have several good youngsters who I feel confident will develop into stars. We are employing the same tactics and training as last season and the outlook is pretty good.” Only one of the Everton junior teams will be engaged this week, but the remainder come into the reckoning a week hence.
FARRELL AT INSIDE LEFT
August 16, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
Everton will open their Second Division programme of the new soccer season at Southampton on Saturday with Peter Farrell, their usual left half-back as partner to Eglington on the left wing. Farrell is by no means a stranger to the inside left berth, for he played in that position twice last season for Everton, and made some eighteen appearances in the attack the season before. A pleasing feature of the team is the return of Lello to left half. This will be his first league match with the side since his knee trouble in May 1950. Buckle after being out of the team for most of the second half of last season will form the right wing with Potts, and Catterick will lead the line. Sagar (goal) enters his twenty-third season with the Goodison Park club. Team is; - Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Lello; Buckle, Potts, Catterick, Farrell, Eglington.
Fielding who did duty at outside right in many matches last season is in the reserve eleven at inside left, his customary position.
LELLO BACK IN HARNESS
August 16, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Farrell at Inside Left in Hope of Greater Forward Punch
Ranger’s Notes
Everton who start their Second Division programme with a visit to Southampton, have Cyril Lello back in the side for the first time since May, 1950. A troublesome knee injury received against Aston Villa in February that year kept Lello out of the first team all last season. Though he had spells in the Central League side, these alternated with periods of enforced rest and special rehabilitation treatment and he was never anywhere near his best. At last he has won the long and weary struggle back to fitness and on Saturday resumes his old position at left, leaving Peter Farrell, the Blues captain free to move up into the attack to partner Tommy Eglington. This change in the attack is obviously dictated by the desire to infuse a greater degree of penetration and shooting power into the front line. Farrell figured in the forwards two season ago on 18 occasions at both inside right and inside left. After getting a goal in each of his first two games, however he lost the pattern and did not score again. But Farrell is a grand worker, and if honest effort and club spirit can do the trick, he will not be found wanting.
Buckle Recalled
Buckle who lost his place at outside right to Fielding half-way through last season is recalled for senior duty, with Fielding reverting to inside left in the Central League side, I hope this further reshuffle brings something worthwhile. Ever-green Ted Sagar is first choice for goal and at Southampton will be starting his 23rd season with Everton for whom he first signed in March 1929. If he continues to play as well as he did last season he may yet complete 25 years at Goodison though he has still a good way to go to do that. Ted will be 42 next February. Team; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Lello; Buckle, Potts, Catterick, Farrell, Eglington.
Reserves (v. Leeds United 3 p.m.); Leyland; Clinton, Rankin; Donovan, Lindley, Melville; McNamara, Hampson, McIntosh, Fielding, Easthope
Southampton Team
Southampton will rely on last season’s players. There are no newcomers in the chosen team and now that Irish international goalkeeper Hugh Kelly is no longer with the club, Christie, who played in several first team matches last season is first choice for goal. George Curtis the former Arsenal forward is captain. Southampton; Christie; Ellerington, Gregory; Elliott, Clements, Mallett; Day, Dudley, Brown, Curtis, Edwards.
FARRELL OPENS IN HIS ‘NATIONAL POSITION
August 16, 1951. The Evening Express
Lello Resumes at Left Half for Blues at the Dell
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Peter Farrell, the Everton captain, will open the season in his international position of inside-left, instead of his regular position of wing half-back. This is to add punch to the line in the opening Second Division game against Southampton at the The Dell on Saturday. Farrell used to play at inside forward as a junior but it was not until the season before last that we really appreciated his value in the position. Then he played for Eire against England at Goodison Park and scored the second of the two goals by which the Irishman won. Everton played him at inside forward several times during that season and last season, and the choice is made obviously with the thought that he knows his fellow countryman Tommy Eglington so well in method. A surprise so far as the attack is concerned is the omission of Wally Fielding, who completed last season as a regular outside right but who, on Saturday, will be playing at inside left in the Central League side.
Buckle on Wing
The passing over of Fielding means the re-introduction of Ted Buckle as a partner of Potts on the right wing, in a line led by Harry Catterick. Buckle’s potentially as a goal scorer must always be respected in fact, he is too much of an opportunist ever to be left out at a period in Everton’s history when goals have been so scarce. One of the most encouraging feature of the team is the return to left half of Cyril Lello, the erstwhile forward. Lello was never exactly convincing as an inside forward, but Manager Cliff Britton decided that he had the making of a genuine wing, half-back, and experimented with him in that position with such success that Lello made it his own. Just under two years ago Lello injured a knee and had to miss Everton’s great cup run in 1950. In fact, a recurrence of injuries has kept him out of the team, until now. Lello was, at the time of his injury one of the best wing half-backs of the First Division and from what I saw in the trial game last Saturday he is still a power. Moore and Lindsay will be the full backs in front of Ted Buckle, while Tommy Jones is being preserved with at centre-half with Grant on his right. Team; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Lello; Buckle, Potts, Catterick, Farrell, Eglington.
Everton Reserves (v. Leeds United, at Goodison Park, 3 p.m.); Leyland; Clinton, Rankin; Donovan, Lindley, Melville; McNamara, Hampson, McIntosh, Fielding, Easthope.
UPHILL CLIMB
August 17, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Best of good wishes also to Everton, starting off their uphill climb against the rugged and dour Southampton side at the Dell. It would be nice to feel that Everton were a good bet to repeat their performance of 20 years ago in getting out of the “wilderness” at the first time of asking, but with every desire to look on their chances with a kindly eve I simply cannot see them doing it. However that is something which also will be fully deal with tomorrow. Let us leave it at that now. Hope springs eternal where football is concerned, and if Buckle can succeed where he has not greatly shone before though he can hit the ball hard when at his best –and the experiment with Farrell as a forward turns out better than it did previously. Everton may give their supporters something over which to quaff a celebration draught tomorrow evening. The Blues themselves realize the magnitude of the task, but with fighting spirit the determination to gibe of their best a bit more shooting power, and that run of the ball which often makes so much difference, they can materially improve their prospects. It is up to them. Teams; Everton; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Lello; Buckle, Potts, Catterick, Farrell, Eglington. Southampton; Christie; Ellerington, Gregory; Elliott, Clements, Mallett; Day, Dudley, Brown, Curtis, Edwards.
EVERTON FIND THERE IS NO EASY GLORY FOR THEM IN THE SECOND DIVISION
August 18, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Southampton 1, Everton nil
By Stork
Not an impressive Everton by any means. Had it not been for the amazing Sagar, Southampton would have won more handsomely. He simply staggered the natives by the manner of his saves. There was still no thrust in the Everton attack and they found the Southern defence, speed a problem. Southampton were a fast and assertive side. Southampton; Stanbridge, goal; Ellerington and Gregory, backs; Elliott, Clements and Mallett, half-backs; Day, Dudley, Brown, Curtis (captain), and Edwards, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Lindsay, backs; Grant, Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Potts, Catterick, Farrell (captain), and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. S. Flander (Laudwater).
Southampton was not new ground to the Everton club, but was new territory for most of the present team. The day was fine with a brilliant sun accompanied by a light breeze. The ground looked well and Everton were hopeful of getting away to a good start in their efforts to repeat history – return to the First Division at the first time of asking. When last they were at the Dell, in 1921 they were beaten. The Everton team was somewhat different to that which concluded last season, and the hope was that there would be more striking power in the attack this season. This was their great fault last year there were several improvements since I was here –increased covered accommodation and the erection of a new stand. The return of Lello after more than a season’s absence from the first team of immense interest to the Liverpool people present. Farrell won the toss and set Southampton to face the sun. Centre forward Brown set the ball rolling with a pass to his inside right, but the winger’s centre was collared by an Everton man. Day was given a second chance and Jones conceded a corner in clearing the centre. It was Everton’s turn to test the opposition defence and Clements decided that a back pass was the best methods of checking the advance. This was the forerunner of another Everton attack and when Buckle passed back to Potts he unleashed a strong drive which went flashing narrowly over the crossbar. Another Everton attack was driven off and then Day ran to the centre forward position broke through the Everton defence and with only Sagar in front of him shot outside. Dudley netted the ball for Southampton but the referee had previously sounded for the ball had gone outside. So far it had been cut and thrust on the part of both teams and Eglington tried a surprise shot which passed outside. Lindsay was very cool when he dribbled close to his own goal and cleared when the odds were against him. Brown was close at hand, but the Scot seemed very sure of himself. Another shot went flashing over the Southampton crossbar so that each side had its goal scoring effort. Brown once overran the ball when he seemed as though he might go through. He regained possession and gave Day the opportunity to shoot. This the winger did but Sagar made a good save. This led to a hot attack on the Everton defence and Jones headed away a dangerous scooped pass that would have spelt trouble for Sagar and company. This was the completion of a strong Southampton attack which had the Everton defence working at top pace. Another ground save by Sagar foiled Brown. It was a difficult cross-shot which the goalkeeper one-handed away to a colleague to complete the clearance. Stansbridge had to go down slick to save an Eglington shot. The Everton defence became tangled up when Southampton made their next attack, and when Edwards shot fiercely the ball struck Moore and saved a difficulty situation. Southampton pressed strongly and Sagar was once again the savior when he turned a Dudley shot over the crossbar. One round of passing by Everton pleased the crowd but they were happy when it broke down close to goal. This Southampton side was full of good football and keenness to shoot. The Southampton defence had its anxious moments when a long ball was taken up by Farrell, but the Irishman seemed to step on the ball and by the time he had gathered it he was closely marked and the danger was eventually cleared.
Stumbling Block
Jones was proving a stumbling block to the Southampton attack when the ball was in the air. So far Sagar had the most to do, and did it well. Potts and Farrell worked like Trojans to bring some cohesion into the Everton attack, who so far had been well handled by the Southampton defence.
After 37 minutes Edwards swept the ball into the centre and Day without hesitation cracked the ball with his right foot and it went flashing into the Everton net, Sagar having no chance. It was only the reward for work well done for the Southampton forwards had been by far the more dangerous collectively. Clements and his wing half backs were holding the Everton attack well, so that Stansbridge had little trouble. Near the interval the Southerners were attacking strongly in their endeavour to add to the score, and Sagar had to make yet another of his sound saves. Eglington put on to the waiting Stansbridge’s hands and Potts was bowled over as he was running into goal. Right on time Buckle screwed the ball into goal and Eglington armed it away. There was an appeal for a penalty but after a talk with the linesman the referee gave a throw down. Apparently the ball had crossed the line before Buckle made his centre.
Half-time; Southampton 1, Everton nil.
Everton resumed on an attacking note and Stansbridge had to make an old fashioned punch away save. At this point Eglington was working at centre forward with Catterick on the wing. I liked the way Clements brought his wing half backs into play instead of lashing the ball forward. Southampton had been confined to defensive measures for the first five minutes of the half and when Eglington beat Ellerington and swept the ball right across the field to Buckle the outside right made a great effort to nod the equalizer. At last the Southern team got moving and Sagar had to pull down a centre by Edwards. Then Day lifted one high over but so far we had not seen the assertive Southampton of the first half.
Day A Danger
Day was always a dangerous man near goal and he made Sagar step sprightly to cover a hard shot which basted outside. Buckle had a rare chance of equalizing when he was put through clear of anyone, but he shot wide just as Brown did for Southampton from a somewhat similar position. The Southampton forwards were not nearly so effective this half, Clements stepped in to hold up Catterick when he was injured and had to be assisted off the field with a foot injury. Dudley was given a lovely ball by Elliott and moved close in before he shot. Jones however got in the way of the ball and it cannoned away Southampton’s forwards were inclined to waste their final pass. They had become inaccurate in this final pass which is of such vital importance. Nevertheless they were more forceful than they opponents. Sagar who is starting his 23rd season was in brilliant form, and made yet another tremendous save from Day, a strong and accurate shooter who had not to be left a single opening. Sagar brought a gasp when he thumped this pile-driver over the bar –a save that should have been filmed for young goalkeepers. Final; Southampton 1, Everton nil.
EVERTON RES V LEEDS RES
August 18, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton, who opened their programme at Goodison Park, today, including in their team McIntosh and Fielding. Everton were much the classier side and only for Taylor’s fine keepership would have gone ahead, especially with two great shots from McNamara and Donovan. The United were at times dangerous. Lindley being responsible for breaking up many attacks. Half-time Everton Res 0, Leeds Res 0. After the restart Everton played with plenty of vigour and were successful in taking the lead in the fiftieth minute though Easthope. The Blues were now on top and a great drive from Easthope was magnificently saved by Taylor from near range. Lindley put through his own goal in the 65th minute. Final; Everton Res 1, Leeds Res 1.
• Everton “B” 2, Burtonwoods O.B. 0
RANGER’S REVIEW EVERTON PROSPECTS FOR THIS SEASON
August 18, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Not Too Optimistic
I firmly believe that in due time Everton will enjoy sustained spells of success when their younger professionals have been fully developed. But so far as the coming season is concerned all I can visualize at the outside is the possibility of Everton maintaining a position a little above half-way. Time may prove me wrong. It won’t be the first time. But that is my honest opinion and anything else is not worth giving. The Blues are pinning their faith at least at the start to last season’s first teamers. Admitting g that on a fair number of occasions the side played nice football the stark fact remains that it was not good enough and to my mind is still not good enough to get the Blues back where they really belong, both by tradition and wealth as well as the volume of their support. The old pack has been re-shuffled for today’s game at Southampton. I sincerely hope that the way it has been dealt out will bring an improvement, but while clinging to hope I cannot put much faith in players who have already been tried and found wanting in similar positions before. Don’t think I got out of bed on the wrong side this morning these words were written. Nothing would be further from the truth. I shall be delighted if both our club do better than ever before. On the other hand the season’s prospects are too often viewed through rose-tinted glasses. That is understandable, so far as managers and directors are concerned, but the writer who fails to express his own honest views whether palatable or not, is failing in his duty to his readers.
Here Are Officials Views
Mr. W. R. Williams (Everton Director)
We are looking forward to the coming season, our second venture into the Second Division with full confidence that we can and will give a fairly good account of ourselves. We intend to make every, Endeavour to emulate our performance of 21 years ago, though we fully realize that the task will be much more difficult today than it was them. “With the exception of Eddie Wainwright all of our recognized first team players are available and are fit and eager. They are under no illusion as to the equality of the opposition they will meet. They are quite aware of both its strengths and ability, but they feel confident that, given just that little run of the ball “which eluded them so persistently last season they will at least this year occupy a position among the leaders.
Mr. Cliff Britton (Manager)
Every effort will be made during the coming season to regain our place in the First Division. If we can just sustain that touch of inspiration which we found against such sides as Spurs, Derby County, Newcastle United, Middleborough and a few others last season we shall have every possibility of attaining our objective. The first few results will be an important factor, if these are such that they instill confidence into the team’s there is not knowing what it may do. “The players have trained hard during the past month. Now we all anxiously await the results of their efforts.”
EVERTON BEATEN
August 18, 1951. The Evening Express
Blues Fail To Seize Chances
Sagar Again Hero of His Side, Makes Brilliant Saves
By Radar
Ted Sagar signalized the commencement of his 23rd season with Everton by a wonder display of goalkeeping in the first half against a fast, dangerous Southampton attack at the Dell today. Time and again he defied the Southampton forwards, who used wisely and it was not until the 37th minute that Day cracked home an unstoppable shot from Edward’s centre to give Southampton a lead, which they undoubtedly deserved. The pace was tremendous in the boiling sunshine and Everton, too, although not having so much of the game had their chances, but they failed to snap them up. Forward, Everton really tried hard without being impressive, while Lello, after such a lengthy absence, was at times somewhat bewildered by the speed of the opposition. Excursions specials were run from all the outlaying districts for the game. It was only the second time in their history that Everton had visited Southampton for a League engagement. The previous occasion was twenty years ago, and Southampton ran out winners by 2-1 on that occasion. Everton had skipper Peter Farrell in the inside left berth and Cyril Lello resumed for his first senior outing since the season before last. Southampton’s only change compared with the side which did duty at the end of last season was the re-introduction of the veteran goalkeeper Len Stanbridge. Making his “maiden trip” with the Blues since his election in the Board was new director Mr. Tom Nuttall. He joined colleagues Mr. Ernest Green and Jack Sharp at Euston yesterday, John Willie Parker travelled as twelfth man. Southampton; Stanbridge, goal; Ellerington and Gregory, backs; Elliott, Clements and Mallett, half-backs; Day, Dudley, Brown, Curtis (captain), and Edwards, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Lindsay, backs; Grant, Jones and Lello, half-backs; Buckle, Potts, Catterick, Farrell (captain), and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. F. S. Flander. Everton received a warm welcome and Farrell won the toss, setting Southampton to face the glaring sun. It was Southampton who first went into action, however, and Jones had to concede a corner to prevent the tall Curtis connecting with Day’s accurate centre. Next it was Everton’s turn, and Stanbridge was alive to Grant’s bid to push the ball through to Catterick and the Southampton goalkeeper easily won the race for possession.
A Close Shave
Then we saw Buckle race to the goal-line and turn the ball back for the in-running Potts to drive fiercely a yard over the bar. This was a lively opening, and Sagar must have been relieved to see Day, after breaking through, solo drive well wide of the far upright. Day was again in the picture immediately afterwards. This time he cut inside, held off the challenge of four Everton defenders and then, with only Sagar to beat cracked the ball two yards the wrong side of the near post. A close shave.
The Southampton forwards were proving a nippy assertive force, and so far the Everton half-backs had not managed to gain control. After Eglington had driven one over the angle of the woodwork, Day raced away again, but lost his balance at the critical moment. As it was Lindsay earned applause for the cool way in which he tricked two men in the minimum of space near his own goalline. Potts set his forward colleagues the right example when he hit one on the volley from just outside the penalty box. It hurtled over the top, but it was just the kind of thing needed. Slowness by Lindsay almost let in Brown when Curtis lofted the ball over his own head, but Brown was unable to bring the ball under control. The danger was not cleared and eventually it was only a first-class save Sagar driving sideways which prevented Day opening the score. Southampton were undoubtedly the more dangerous side, and Jones head provided the barrier when Curtis hit one first time with Sagar partially unsighted. There was speed and method in everything the Southampton forwards had done so far, and again Sagar was the savoiur when he made flying leapt to parry Brown’s powerful short range drive. It was a grand save and the crowd rose to cheer Everton’s veteran keeper. We had seen little of the Everton attack for a time, but when they did get away, with Potts and Catterick on the right the ball was lobbed to the far side for Eglington to try a quick one with his left foot.
Brilliant Header
Southampton were soon back on the war-path. They were exploiting their fast-moving wingers at every opportunity and Sagar was only able partially to punch clear another Day centre. Edwards coming in quickly put immense power behind his shot as the ball rolled loose, but it struck Grant on the head and was forced clear. Lindsay was not having any too happy a time, and when he conceded a corner to Day it produced a brilliant Dedley header. This looked all over a winner, but the miraculous Sagar came from noweher to turn it sensationally over the top. Farrell and Potts were trying hard to get the Everton front line moving, but so far without any marked success. Even so, Everton might have taken the lead, when they broke away and Farrell was left with an open goal. Unhappily he trod on the ball and was unable to regain full possession. A low Eglington centre sent in was mishandled by Stanbridge but Catterick found the ball coming to him awkwardly and was off the mark in his attempt to slip the ball back to the nicely placed Potts. Then Stanbridge had to go down to field a long range from Grant. Catterick too, tried one from well out, but it swerved away from the target. The pace of the game was a cracker and within seconds of Gregory dispossessing Buckle, I was necessary for Jones to stop it with a vital intervention to foil Dudley. Edwards once had the Everton defence in trouble when he burst into the middle but Sagar was right there to deal with his sharp grounder. It was no more than Southampton deserved when they took the lead in 37 minutes. It was a well-placed Edwards centre which paved the way for Day to give Sagar no chance with a splendid right footer from just inside the penalty area. It might easily have been two goals not long afterwards had it not been for Sagar’s anticipation. He moved out to turn outside a point blank shot from Curtis at the expense of an unproductive corner. Everton claimed strongly for a penalty award when Buckle worked his way over to the extreme right, outwitted Ellerington, and then delivered a short centre. It seemed as if Elliott handled, but the referee after consulting a linesman, decided in favour of Southampton. In any case it looked as if Buckle had run the ball behind before making his centre. Half-time; Southampton 1, Everton 0.
The opening incident on resuming was a promising link-up between Catterick and Farrell, on the left, but Gregory stepped in to intercept Catterick’s lobbed pass, intended for Buckle. Stanbridge had to punch clear from Eglington after the Irishman had snapped up a half-clearance and then Catterick was badly off the mark with his pass into the middle when out on his own high up on the left. Everton were now introducing a little more “fire” into their work, and in their next attack were desperately unlucky not to obtain the equalizer. Catterick took over Jones clearance and whipped the ball out to the left for Eglington to get the better of Ellerington. Eglington cut inwards before lobbing the ball invitingly to the far side, Buckle as he sped in, went down to steer the ball with his head, but it flashed across the face of the goal. There was still a wealth of incident to keep the crowd on their toes and a first-class centre from Edwards might have taken a less experienced goalkeeper than Sagar by surprise. Final; Southampton 1, Everton 0.
EVERTON RES V LEEDS RES
August 18, 1951. The Evening Express
Everton Reserves;- Leyland, goal; Clinton and Rankin, backs; Donovan, Lindley and Melville, half-backs; McNamara, Hampson, McIntosh, Fielding and Easthope, forwards. Leeds Reserves; Taylor, goal; Rose, Hair, backs; Forrest, Mapson, and Moffatt, half-backs; Finlay, Heggie, Miller, and Tryer, forwards. Referee; Mr. E.T. Jenkins of Manchester. Fine weather conditions favoured Everton’s commencement of their Central League programme at Goodison Park today when Leeds United were the visitors. The Blues were well represented, McIntosh leading, their attack with Wally Fielding at inside left. The first danger came from Everton when Fielding centred across for McNamara to send in a strong shot with Taylor anticipated. Leeds made a couple of breakaways, but found Clinton and Rankin quite a safe pair of backs. Everton kept up heavy pressure and Taylor in the United goal, had quite a busy time dealing with shots from Hampson, McIntosh and Fielding. Teyer and Miller got moving on the left, and after a pretty out of passing the latter middle the ball, but Clinton nipped in to make a good clearance. There was no doubt about it that up to this period the Blues were the better side but in spite of their efforts could not gain the objective. Everton applied heavy pressure, and it was remarkable how the visitors goal escaped being captured on several occasions. Half-time; Everton Res 0, Leeds Res 0.
EVERTON ATATCK NEEDS MORE PUNCH
August 20, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
Southampton 1, Everton 0
By Stork
Twenty years ago Everton were relegated for the first time and there was speculation as to how long they would remain in the lower regions. They were back where they belonged within eight months. I wish I could be encouraging enough to say they would repeat the performance but there is still evidence of lack of punch in the attack. I have said that so often I am heartily sick of the phrase. At Southampton, the old failing was there in bold relief. Everton claimed they should have had two penalties. I saw one but they could have been forgotten had other opportunities been turned to account. It was a nice game to watch clean and smooth running, but to win your way back to Division 1 you must have more than nice football. Southampton took innumerable chances, yet could only muster a solitary goal, but had it been for a marvelous display of goalkeeping by Ted Sagar, Southampton would have been handsome winners. Sagar is as agile as the day he came –March 14, 1929 –and as keen as eve as ever. His display was the highlight. It was a heart-breaking display so far as Southampton were concerned. Would that I could name others to go along with him. Farrell, Buckle, Eglington and Catterick all had chances, but they failed and so the spoils went to Southampton through a goal scored by Day at the 37 minute. Southampton were more assertive, faster by yards and looked winners from the start, yet they panicked when Everton were testing them in the last quarter. Day may not have been very skilful, but how he can shoot. Sagar defied him time and again, just as he defied Dudley, Curtis, and Brown. He will never give a more valuable display and the pity was that he had to be beaten. Everton defence was faulty at times and there was not always a happy link-up between wing half backs and forwards. Lindsay found Day’s pace a problem, but he tackled well, covered nicely and used the ball. Potts and Farrell worked hard to bring some bite into the attack, but without success. Clements kept a watchful eye on Catterick who did well in the circumstances, but if forwards will not snap up chances they have only themselves to blame. To lose away from home by one goal reads well, but it was only Sagar’s brilliance that prevented Southampton from scoring six.
EVERTON RES 1, LEEDS RES 1
August 20, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton would certainly have taken full points if it had been for the brilliant work of the United goalkeeper Taylor. Everton took the lead in the fiftieth minute through Easthope, and fifteen minutes later Lindley, Everton’s mainspring, had the misfortune to head into his own goal.
STILL GOAL SHY
August 20, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
“Who said too old at 40?” whoever it was should have been with me at the Dell. Southampton on Saturday, when they would have seen 21-years-old Ted Sagar knocked the bottom out of the old adage by as brilliant a display of goalkeeping as has ever seen. Twenty-two years ago Ted joined the Goodison Park staff, a little young native with the eye of a hawk and a safe pair of hands. He was not one whit different at Southampton. He leaped in all directions to make miraculous saves sent the most difficult cross shots bursting over his bar and positioned himself so uncanny that he was always able to get to the ball. Such goalkeeping only comes with vast experience. He broke the hearts of the Southampton forwards with staggering saves. They could not believe their shots could be saved but Sagar showed them they could and were (writes Stork).
When a goalkeeper is as busy as Sagar was it tells you one thing and one thing only that the opposites is on top and Southampton were undoubtedly that in the first half and most of the second. It also tells that the defence was not holding the attack as it should otherwise. Sagar would not have been so busy. The most annoying thing of the match was that Everton had the better chances of scoring than Southampton which tells us something else –that the Everton attack is still not punishing enough. Stanbridge should have been left stone cold on at least four occasions with the chances offered. It was so aggravating to me and other Merseysiders watching the match who saw them indulge in some good approach work and yet miss the vital point of football –the scoring of goals. This has got to be remedied. How it is going to be done is one of my business, but I know it has got to be done if Everton are to emulate their feat of twenty years ago when they dropped to Division 2 and came up at the first time of asking. What are the prospects of that happening? Not very rosy, I am afraid. It was a nice game of football scrupulously clean, plenty of incident, top class combination and if Everton did not always have the “rub of the green” they brought about their own downfall by scorning to take the chances. They claimed they should have had two penalties but one must not rely on matters of this sort. I thought they should have had one when Ellerington armed the ball out of goal the other I did not see. The referee puzzled me with the decision after he had spoken to the linesman. The question was “Did Buckle centre from outside the line.” That was the debating point. If he side it should have been a goal-kick, but what did the referee give –a thrown-down on the far side of the field. It could only have been one of two things –a penalty of a goal-kick. You can well imagine our dismay about the decision. Southampton were a fast moving lot, particularly forward and then wing half backs gave ample support. Each and every man of the line had shots saved. Day in particular who must have been bewildered by the way Sagar dealt with his best efforts. He was recompensed by a goal in 37 minutes but he might easily have had others. Dudley, Curtis, and Brown were also shaken by Sagar’s display. If Stansbridge had half the saves to make as this via-a-vis Everton would have considered themselves unfortunate. He should have been beaten at least three times but that was Everton’s great weakness popping the ball into the net from undoubtedly easy position. I thought Lindsay played as well as any man –Sagar excepted –for he was thoughtful in the passing. Jones’s head was invaluable but he should have taken a leaf out of Clements book and piled his wing half-back so that defence could be turned into attack. Clements time and again nodded the ball to his wing half and off went Southampton on a goal scoring mission.
Brentford expect to be unchanged against Everton at Goodison on Wednesday, Viz; Jeffereys; Horne, Munro; Harper, Greenwood, Hill; Goodwin, Dane, Monk, Sperrin, Paton.
CATTERICK’S SLIGHT INJURY
August 20, 1951. The Evening Express
Harry Catterick, the Everton’s centre-forward, is the only Goodison or Anfield causalty from the opening day of the season (an unpleasant day for Merserysider’s senior clubs), but he may be fit for Wednesday’s game against Brentford at Goodison Park. Catterick injured in the game at Southampton when he caught the boot of an opponent, but treatment at the ground should put him right if wanted.
Standard Good
“Everton now have some idea of the caliber of the opposition they may expect to encounter in the Second Division and believe me if Southampton are anything to judge by the standard is good to say the least. In the first half-part, particularly the Southampton attack carried too many grubs for Everton’s by no means tight defence and it was only “miracle man” Ted Sagar who restricted the interval lead to the one goal scored by marksman Day. “The sporting Southampton crowd rose to Sagar time and again as he leapt across his charge with the grace and speed of a man 20 years his junior. His anticipation was uncanny and he defied cannon ball drives from Day, brilliant headers from Dudley and a steam of shots from inside left Curtis. No wonder Southampton’s goalkeeper, Len Stanbridge himself no means performer remained behind after the final whistle to offer a congratulatory hand to Sagar. “Yes Ted was the shining light in an Everton side which did not open on a propitious note. Yet although Southampton who tired perceptibly after the interval and lost their former accuracy in disposal, had more of the game. Everton engineered enough chances for themselves to have brought back something tangible. Unfortunately there was no patent improvement from a finishing viewpoint compared with last season. Buckle, Catterick, and Farrell all missed chances. Twice Buckle was unlucky with well aimed headers, the second of which Stanbridge punched upwards and against the bar without knowing overmuch about it. “The plain fact emerges that there will have to be radical improvement in finishing of Everton are to make a real bid to regain senior status this season. Merit marks go to Tom Jones for an earnest, efficient performance against the lively Brown, but neither Grant nor Lello really gained the mastery and this meant that Moore and Lindsay found it heavy going. Potts and Farrell worked willingly enough, and I am still firmly of the opinion that Farrell is of greater value at wing half. “From the Everton angle it is now a question of “wait and see.” No individual played poorly in this game, but the team’s best was not good enough. “The result apart, the Everton folk were delighted with their initiation and Division 2. The officials, players and Press were most hospitably received. A special cake with a miniature football laid out on top was cut up for the Everton players afterwards and a point was made of handing the piece with the goalposts attached to Ted Sagar. A nice gesture Southampton!
CENTRAL LEAGUE
August 21, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
Sheffield Wednesday Res 1, Everton Res 2
Easthope and McNamara, the wingers, each scored within eleven minutes of the start to give Everton a thoroughly deserved win over Wednesday Reserves at Hillsbrough. McGovers scored for the home team, who improved in the second half, but the Everton defence was always sound with Falder outstanding. Wednesday’s best forward was Selwyn, Jones former Llay Main (Wrexham) winger.
BRENFORD HERE AGAIN AFTER FOUR SEASONS
August 21, 1951. The Evening Express
Tomorrow’s League Opening at Goodison Park
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Everton open their home programme at Goodison Park tomorrow evening, when they renew acquaintance, after four seasons, with former First Division rivals. Brentford, in the first of the Blues’ duels with the London clubs. Everton have decided that in view of Cyril Lello’s long layoff they will nurse him during the hectic opening period, so he is being rested, Farrell reveres to left half, Harry Potts crosses to fill the gap at inside left and Wally Fielding comes in at inside right to link up with Buckle. The last time the Blues and the Bees clashed was in 1947, when Brentford lost their position in the First Division and were relegated with Leeds United. This will be the sixth meeting of the clubs at Goodison Park . Brentford won here 2-1 in 1936, The Everton scored three successive victories by 3-0, 3-0, and 2-1, but in 1947 it became Brentford’s turn again and they won by two clear goals. In the five matches played at Brentford, Everton have gained only two points as the result of draws in 1937 and 1947. Brentford began this season well last Saturday by forcing a 1-1 draw at Leeds Utd, while Everton were being defeated by the only goal at Southampton, the amazing part about Brentford’s game at leeds was that each of the five forwards, with the exception of the leader, Monk, struck the Leeds crossbar. This at least indicates a willingness to shoot if a certain lack of luck. Brentford have decided to make no change in the team which played in Yorkshire. Brentford, who keep the Football league flag flying in West London, were former members of the old Southern League and gain promotion from the Southern Section in 1933 and won the Second Division championship two seasons later.
EVERTON CHANGES
August 21, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Three Against Brentford
Good Victory for Blues would Give Them Confidence for Future
Ranger’s Notes
Everton make three changes in their side to meet Brentford at Goodison Park tomorrow evening due to the desire to give Lello a gradual breaking in, and not subject him to too much strain following his long lay-off in the early stages of the campaign. As he is being rested tomorrow, Farrell drops back to his normal left half position, Potts crosses over to fill the inside berth, and Fielding returns at inside right. Elsewhere the team is unchanged. Brentford were Everton’s first opponents when football was resumed after the war and tomorrow I hope to see them provide the Blues with their initial Second Division victory. Five years ago Brentford won 2-0 at Goodison. Their side for tomorrow will not contain a single man who played in that match though Munro who came into the side later that season will be at left full back. Everton’s team which played that day included four who are still on the Goodison books – Burnett, Wainwright, Catterick, and Fielding. While defeat by a solitary goal at Southampton does not appear too bad, it was again the grand goalkeeping of Sagar which saved Everton from a heavier reverse. There is a rather monotonous ring about that last phrase. It was used far too often for comfort last season. One hopes it is not going to be the same again this winter.
The Old Problem
If the Blues are to have any hope of lifting themselves out of the Second Division there will have to be fewer of the Sagar last-ditch episodes and more net-finding by the forwards. I was not at Southampton but from all accounts the attack resumed more of less where it left off last. May, lacking in shot in front of goal. That sort of thing will get Everton nowhere or at least nowhere near the place they wish to be. It is early yet, and possibly brighter are in store but points lost in the early stages of the season are difficult to make up as the campaign progresses. Somehow that phrase also strikes me as one too oft repeated in the past. A good substantial win tomorrow would do Everton a power off good psychologically. It may be true, equally true that nothing succeeds like success and if the Blues could have a good run for a while, particularly at this early stage its effect could be almost incalculable. Everton; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Potts, Eglington. Brentford; Jeffreys; Horne, Munro; Harper, Greenwood, Hill; Goodwin, Dare, Monk, Sperrin, Paton.
EVERTON REST LELLO
August 22, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
Readers with an “Angle.”
By Leslie Edwards
“Two readers with worth-while points this morning. One is very disturbed about Everton’s Division 2 prospects the other reminds me that many of the people who made football what it is –they lent their support in the day’s when the League was in lt’s infancy –are among those hit by the broadcast ban.
First Mr. T.A. Wainwright of 50 Park Lane, Netherton says; “I agree with your obverations about a return to First Division soccer for Everton. But you seen to skate lightly over it. I consider that unless the obvious weaknesses centre half, two wingers and centre forward are adequately filled we shall see. Third Division football at Goodison Park in a season or two. This may seem silly, but it is quite possible if a nonchalant attitude persists. “There have been plenty of players of Everton calbre for transfer –one has only to think of Portsmouth signing of Gordon Dale immediately they knew Froggatt would maintain his new position. “The trouble with Everton is that they are living on their past reputation, which most Second Division teams will be most anxious to smash and probably will. “Incidentally I see we are back to the old S.O.S distress signal – Sagar, our savior.
Octogenarian Spirit
Readers E.H. Wright of Seafield, Parkgate Road, Neston writes; “Who wants to listen to a radio football commentary. Only those who are physically unfit to stand the weather. I am in the over-eighties and my son would take me to the match every week; nay I could drive myself there myself, but my chest would only allow me to go out on the warmest of days. “There are many others like me. It was we who supported the Football League in its early days when we were young, I saw Stoke play in the first year of the League, I used to go from Longton by train, pay my 6d and walk back because my slender finances would not permit a return ticket. “Now we old folk and the sick are deprived of attending any match. The loss to the gate can only be small except at such times as a Cup final broadcast. “I trust you will continue to write against the broadcast ban because it means so much in the lives of those who are unable to see a match though it is a poor substitute.
Everton Rest Lello
Cyril Lello the Everton wing half who returned to football this season after eighteen months absence through injury is omitted from the side to receive Brentford this evening. Cliff Britton, the Everton manager has done this because he does not want to overplay Lello in the early weeks of the season. Farrell drops back to left half, Potts crosses to inside left and Fielding comes into the attack. Team; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Grant, Jones, Farrell; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Potts, Eglington.
EVERTON SCRAPE THROUGH
August 23, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 1, Brentford 0
By Stork
Everton only escaped through their match with Brentford at Goodison Park last night, but they were a very welcome two points. Brentford gave as good as they received, but an opportunist goal by Buckle, the 22nd minute gave Everton victory. Everton were a better side than at Southampton and I say this without any endeavour to boister them up. There was bite about their attacks and they were more punishing in their shots. This may seem strange in view of the fact that they only scored once but there were many narrow misses and several lucky escapes for Brentford. Talking of lucky escapes I cannot pass on without mentioning that Brentford had two hectic minutes during which the Everton goal was on the point of falling. It was sheer good luck on the part of Everton that their opponents did not get the ball in the net during this spell. First a Paton shot crashed against Sagar from four yards out, then a back-header by Monk, hit the cross-bar and Jones kicked off the line. A third time Brentford tried their luck, and this time Moore kicked away. Everton had the Brentford defence in a tangle in the last 10 minutes but could not get the ball in the net. Territorially Everton were on top, yet Brentford had good ideals, one was the shot on the run without any effort to deaden the ball.
Forceful Raiders
Everton will have no produce something better than this. There were times when Brenford seemed able to cut through the defence at will. The wingers in particular were forceful. Eglington was a fast raider and centred well and Fielding brought craft into the line. Farrell worked himself to a standstill in defence and attack. The goal was an opportunists affair. The ball returned to Buckle from a Brentford defender and Buckle breasted it down and delivered a shot from just inside the corner of the penalty area to leave Jefferis standing. Moore was none too certain against Paton and Sperrin and was inclined to kick out, but Lindsay was studied and determined. But it was the forwards who showed the improvement. There was punch in the line although many shots missed their mark. Fielding and Buckle with two hard drives, almost knocked Greenwood over, and on the finish a Buckle shot beat Jefferis and almost full back Horne who was standing close to the upright. Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Lindsay, backs; Grant, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Potts and Eglington, forwards. Brentford; Jefferies, goal; Horne and Munro, backs; Harper, Greenwood, and Hill, half-backs; Goodwin, Dare, Monk, Sperrin, and Paton, forwards. Attendance; 32,722.
Wednesday Changes
Sheffield Wednesday’s team to meet Everton on Saturday shows three defensive changes. A surprise is the exclusion of centre half Edgar Packard for Cyril Turton, Irish international, Eddie Gannon comes in at right half in place of Henry, and Vic Kenny displaces Curtis at left back who has an injured foot. The team will be; McIntosh; Jackson, Kenny; Gannon, Turton, Whitcomb; Finney, Sewell, Woodhead, Thomas, Rickett.
NOT EVERTON’S BEST
August 23, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Two points are always a useful contribution but the manner in which Everton got them at Brentford’s expenses last night hardly encourages hope that the Blues are going to gallop back to the First Division. Perhaps it is a trifle certain to be too critical on the bash of one game. Maybe we should have patience. But this is the time of the year, with firm grounds that Everton should be playing by a stock of points to carry them over the period when pitches are heavy and take greater toll of some of their small and light built players. Often enough the forward line served up nice moves but most of them were across the field. That sort of thing cuts no ice at the best of times but when allied to over elaboration in the penalty box it is still less effective. Truly several good shots were put in notably a couple by Potts in the first half, but generally speaking Jefferis had nothing really difficult with which to cope. The situation demanded an individualist with the speed, trust and initiative to cut his way through without finesse and finish up with a strong and accurate shot. There wasn’t one on view.
Defensive Panicked
On top of that the manner in which the defence constantly retreated in face of Brentford’s attacks was a rather disturbing feature. Time and again the Londoners forwards were allowed to take the ball twenty yards or more without a tackle being made. We hear a lot these days about defence in depth” which sounds good but give me quick tackling halves and backs any time, not those who hold off making their challenge until the opposition is on the verge of the penalty area. That leaves too small a margin for recovery. Brentford are a very ordinary side, but they might well have snatched a point in the hectic period half-way through the second half when three times in three minutes the ball was kicked away off the Everton goal line with Sagar beaten. During this spasm the visitors shook the home defence into such a frenzy of fear and panic that they were kicking the ball far into the crowd, and once right out of the ground –in an agony of apprehension. Only Lindsay and Farrell kept cool heads.
Brentford’s Escape
These narrow escapes were balanced by many lucky squeaks at the Brentford end, so the balance was fairly equal. But Everton will have to produce something better than this to keep themselves in a respectable place, much less challenge for promotion. Happily there is plenty of time yet and possibly the side will soon settle down and regain some confidence in itself. It is to be hoped so. Lindsay was the best defender with Farrell a hard worker, but still taking it out of himself instead of making the ball do the work. Moore on this showing has lost some of his grip. Eglington and Buckle were the most likely looking forward with Potts next. Eglington could entrance his value still more if he would curb his propensity to centre too strongly. This was not a greatly encouraging display but we live in hope of better things to come.
EVERTON FIND 13 LUCKY
August 23, 1951. The Evening Express
It Broke a Home Non-Victory Spell
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Everton today are firm believes that 13 is a lucky number. At Goodison Park last night they defeated Brentford through Ted Buckle’s 24th minute goal, and it was the 13th match played at the Park since Everton last won there. Yes, and throughout the season the Blues will not score a luckier victory. Do not run away with the idea that Brentford were a masterful football combination but they had what Everton lacked –speed, enterprise and stamina. The Blues looked quite good once Brentford had slowed down to their speed in the first-half, and it was during that period that Buckle scored –with a magnificent left foot shot from 18 yards. The Blues then were poised for a good win, but they lost all their verve, when Horne and Harper, in turn, kicked off the goal line early in the second half. Brentford could see the chance of saving a point, and they went for it with an enterprise and earnestness which Everton must have envied. The Bees were absolutely undeterred when Sagar dived to his left to save a certainty from Paton, in fact they redoubled their efforts to produce a state of defensive bewilderment. Clearance kicks failed to find anything except touch, and the more desperate Everton became the more Brentford fought. Moore twice kicked off the line; Sperrin hit the bar; time and again the ball was scrambled away and somehow Everton survived.
Defensive Successes
The Blues are now more deeply in the debt of Sagar, but there were faults in all other departments which must give the management cause for serious thought. Jack Lindsay’s display at left back was the epitome of considered construction; in fact, he stood out as by far the most immaculate player on the field (Sagar excepted of course). Moore could head the ball accurately but was inaccurate when he kicked; Jackie Grant was often running around in circles but generally found Farrell across to help him out; Jones, against an indifferent centre-forward in Monk too easily lost his “balance,” while at inside forward Potts and Eglington were too slow. Buckle was the best forward on view, with Eglington coming into the game in flashes, but Catterick suffered through his inability to master the ball, which came to him when he was too often facing his own goal. We missed the old Everton game of approach and rhythmic movement. They did well for one spell but generally looked as if they had left their true self’s on the practice grounds.
EVERTON’S DEBUTANT
August 24, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Donovan For Grant, and Potts Injury Lets Parker In
Ranger’s Notes
Everton make two changes in their side to opposite Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park tomorrow, one of them due to Potts being injured. The place of Potts whose knee is swollen will be taken by Parker, who filled the same berth several times towards the end of last season. At right half, Grant gives way to 21-year-old Donald Donovan, making his first senior appearance. Donovan joined Everton from Maymount Rovers, Cork, and May 1949 and has played regularly at right half in the Central league side since last Christmas. Elsewhere the side is unchanged. If Wednesday tomorrow are anywhere near as good a side as they were last May then Everton will have to do better than against Brentford to get both points. There is plenty of room for improvement in attack, and less cross-field for reverse progression, plus speedier movement would help a lot. I hope the defenders will not lose their heads as some did so alarmingly on Wednesday. It is a long time since I saw any side get the wind up so desperately. They recovered their poise to some extent later, but while it lasted it was almost tragic to see some of the defence so apprehensive and bereft of constructive ideas. I also hope we shall see less back-pedaling when the opposition is bearing sown at full speed. With £35,000 Jackie Sewell in their side, fresh –or will it be stale? –from his goal scoring feats in Australia and speedy raid is like Finney and Woodhead in support the Wednesday from line must not be given too much scope. Dozens of times this column has asked the Goodison crowd to give the Everton players loyal support. Once again I repeat the injunction. Keep your criticism till the final whistle has gone. While the game is on do your best to encourage the team. It definitely makes a difference. Sheffield Wednesday make three changes in defence, Kenny comes in for left back, Curtis who is injured and Gannon and Turton supplant Henry and Packard in the intermediate line. Everton; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Donovan, Jones, Farrell; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Parker, Eglington. Sheffield Wednesday; McIntosh; Jackson, Kenny; Gannon, Turton, Witcomb; Finney, Sewell, Woodhead, Thomas, Rickett
Everton Reserves; (away Bolton Wanderers); Leyfield; Clinton, Rankin; Cross, Forshaw, Lello; McNamara, Hampson, Hickson, Cummins, Easthope.
DONOVAN MAKES HIS LEAGUE DEBUT
August 24, 1951. The Evening Express
Everton’s Team Changes for Game with Wednesday
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Don Donovan, the 21-year-old Irishman, will make his Football League debut when he play’s right-half for Everton against Sheffield Wednesday in the battle of the co-relegationists at Goodison Park tomorrow. Everton make two changes as compared with the team which defeated Brentford but one is forced on them for Harry Potts is unfit. He damaged a knee in a private trial game three weeks ago and has been operating under a handicap so John Parker comes in at inside left to partner Eglington and occupy the position he did against the Wednesday last May. Donovan who has the curious Christian name of Donal, cost Everton nothing and was discovered as a matter of fact, during Everton’s May, 1949 tour of Eire. Donovan was playing as an amateur with Maymount Rovers, a junior Cork team, and he graduated through Everton’s junior team as an inside forward, but last season was conveted into a wing half back, and was a regular Central League player. On the morning of May 5 last Everton and the Wednesday were First Division clubs, but a 6-0 win at Hillsbrough for Wednesday sent Everton down and failed to save the “owls” for Chelsea won the same day. On that day Wednesday were a much superior team to the Blues, who were so disappointing even in victory over Brentford on Wednesday, but we do not know whether Wednesday remain superior. The Sheffield lads opened with a 3-1 win over Doncaster Rovers at Hillsbrough last Saturday to raise hopes which were dashed on Monday when they went down 3-1 to Leicester City. Everton lost by the only goal at Southampton, and scrambled to a lone goal win over Brentford in a game which in itself was a paradox. Brentford did not deserve to lose, and yet had Everton not won everyone would have described then as unlucky. On last Season’s showing Wednesday are an infinitely better attacking side than the Blues with the converted Woodhead a magnificent centre-forward and the “golden boy” Jackie Sewell proving worth every penny of the £34,000 paid for him. I rated Wednesday as well as Everton, too good a team to go down. If Everton can produce some of the cohesive skill we missed in mid-week, this should be a classic game starting at three o’clock. Everton; Sagar; Moore, Lindsay; Donovan, Jones, Farrell; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Parker, Eglington.
EVERTON TWICE LOSE THE LEAD
August 25, 1951. The Evening Express
Double by Buckle and Sewell
It was Grand Football and the Sides were Revelation
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Ted Buckle and Jackie Sewell both had “doubles” in today’s goal-packed thriller at Goodison Park where Sheffield Wednesday after being much the inferior side in the first half when they were two down, equalized and although falling behind again once more pulled the game out of the fire with a goal that was almost a gift. It was a great game; magnificent football with Everton the better side although defensively at times uncertain. Eglington and Woodhead were the other scores, and Donovan’s debut was a complete success. Everton announced that Ken Birch, the former Birkenhead schoolboy and Liverpool Youth player has signed professional for the club. Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Lindsay, backs; Donovan, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Parker (J.W.), and Eglington, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday;- McIntosh, goal; Jackson and Kenny, backs; Carson, Turton and Witcomb (captain), half-backs; Finney, Sewell, Woodhead, Thomas, and Rickett, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Bell (Northumberland). Thomas made the first thrust getting Rickett through but just when Sewell lobbed the ball forward for Woodhead, Lindsay came through with a neat headed intervention. Everton responded immediately Fielding moving to outside right to hook across a centre to which Buckle made a good effort but it brought nothing to really worry McIntosh and then Farrell broke through after Catterick had elected to back heel the ball instead of going straight for goal. Farrell’s quick shot however glanced off a boot and went behind, Everton were right on their toes and getting a really amazing pace and Eglington cut to the edge of the penalty area to fire in a low shot which McIntosh saved on the line. Gannon Wednesday’s Irish right half left everyone knew that Wednesday were about when he bore through on the right and let got a magnificent right foot shot which I pick would have gone over but which Sagar wisely helped on its way to ensure being safe rather than sorry. Everton were playing better then at any stage in last Wednesday’s game for the passing was much more accurate so far they had been quicker in making decisions, and they had mastery of the ball. Parker and Eglington twice combined excellently although the Wednesday had their centres well covered. Everton were keeping right on top of Wednesday never giving the Yorkshiremen a chance to settle either on the ball or their game, and now Catterick just outside the penalty area let go a terrific right foot rising shot to which McIntosh leapt across the goal to field magnificently. Whitcomb’s long cross-field pass produced a narrow escape for Everton for when the centre came in nobody went to tackle Woodhead who headed downwards and the ball struck the inside of the post and bounded back into play for it to be hooked away to touch. This was Everton’s first mistake and rather a bad one for Woodhead was left completely uncovered.
Everton Score
Everton took the lead at 14 minutes through Buckle, who would be the first to thank Parker and Fielding for their helping hand. The ball was slipped forward to Parker, who quickly flicked it over Turton to Fielding. Fielding nodded it forward with his head, drew Witcomb and then slipped it outside for Buckle to sweep around Kenny and cut in close. Buckle gave the dummy, wanted to centre and then he changed and whipped the ball into the net behind McIntosh, the ball actually touching the foot of Turton who made a last galliant effort to incept. The Wednesday fought back strongly, Sewell shooting magnificently just over the top, and after a grand piece of work by Eglington, Buckle again found himself on good ground, and moved inwards for the second goal, but this time he had no luck with his shot, which came bounding back of an opponent. Everton seemed to be playing with more zest and were than at any stage of the Brentford game, and it was not confidence born of the goal for they had been playing this way from the start. The Wednesday half-backs were doing more shooting than the forwards, and Witcomb was the next to try, Sagar diving to push the ball out and then driving on it to complete the save. Donovan’s free kick placed Everton on the goal path again but Fielding had a shot turned aside, and Catterick’s overhead shot failed, before Turton managed to shake off the Blues. Buckle and Fielding changed places, but Fielding’s centre became a catch for McIntosh. Woodhead gave Jones the slip almost like he did at Hillsborough but Moore tackled him just as he shot and the ball went away to Sewell before coming back to Woodhead who tried a shot from an awkward angle, the ball almost skimming the bar. This was not Second Division football – it was high class First Division fare, with the ball generally on the floor and the passing of a particularly high standard. Parker almost made it two when he stepped through with a glorious left foot cross shot to which McIntosh flung himself to save magnificently. The Wednesday came with one of those Brentford like attacks which Everton found tremendous difficultly in clearing, but eventually Farrell relieved it all by passing back to Sagar. And what could be safe than that really? Fielding and Buckle combined again magnificently and Buckle was bursting through when he was fouled on the edge of the penalty area, but the free kick was easily disposed of. One of the most marked features of Everton compared with Wednesday was the domination of Tommy Jones at centre half, and the fact that as they started on their toes so they were still on their toes. They needed to be against a really strong side. Parker made a magnificent header off Fielding’s centre, McIntosh picking the ball down from underneath the bar with both hands. In 43 minutes Everton were two up-striking at the vital time, and it was Buckle who got it. Catterick raced away to outside left to draw Turton turned the ball back to Eglington to move inside; survive a tackle and then flick the ball over to the unmarked Buckle who from the centre-forward position rammed it home with the left foot. Half-time; Everton 2, Sheffield Wednesday 0.
Everton resumed just as they left off –full of fire, life and good football, and Parker almost made a goal. Catterick before Everton forced a corner from which Buckle made a great bid for the hat-trick his shot flashing just past the far post.
Donovan Does Well
It was a choice piece of work by Donovan when by sheer strength of tackle he deprived Thomas of a shooting chance and in a split second, his precision pass had Everton on the attack. Just two things perfectly done, I don’t think there is any doubt about it – Donovan has made his mark. Fielding was showing his best and now he beat two man delightfully in a defensive role before sending Buckle through, but then came a magnificent effort by Finney who dribbled inwards, beating man after man before he broke clear and was left with only Sagar to beat. Sagar came out and fling himself at the shot and just managed to turn it beyond the far post. The Wednesday players ran over to Finney to pat him on the back for what truly was a grand effort deserving of a goal. Everton appealed for a penalty when Kenny tackled Buckle on the goal-line but the referee was quick to turn down Everton’s appeal. Both players were injured but were able to resume and a weak pass by Parker saw Sewell put Woodhead brought for a shot which flashed beyond the far post. In fact, it was a pretty poor use of a good opening. The Wednesday were coming in flashes and when they did they were exceptionally dangerous although their finishing was not the essence of accuracy. It is not often a goal comes from a corner, but Wednesday did so in 55 minutes to enable them to come thrashing back into the game. Finney forced it and took it and the ball bobbed about twice before it fell invitingly for Woodhead to crash it in from close range. Eglington had to go off with an injury to his right leg as the Wednesday half-backs began to exert more power than they had done in the first half and Thomas made a great shot which went just over the top. Eglington was only off a minute. Everton were not having as much of the game now as they had lost a little of that balance and command. Sagar rubbed some dirt into his gloves to make sure there was no slipping. A free kick given against Moore on the touch-line for a foul on Rickett led to Sewell gaining the equalizer in 69 minutes. The original kick was cleared but the ball was turned aside to Finney who, instead of shooting, neatly turned the ball back inside for Sewell to ram it home, from three yards. Eglington made a flying header in an endeavour to regain the lead, but the ball went just over the top. Eglington would not be denied and in 71 minutes he regained the lead for Everton thanks to the quickness and accuracy of Catterick’s pass. If there was a thriller this was it. A shocking misunderstanding enabled Wednesday to equalize again in 78 minutes. A wide pass was flung to Rickett who centred into the goal area. Lindsay, Jones and Farrell all seemed to have it covered and Sagar came out to catch it. They all left it to each other and Sewell, just stepped in and toe-ended it into the net. Final; Everton 3, Sheffield Wednesday 3.
EVERTON RES V BOLTON RES
August 25, 1951, The Evening Express
Everton Res made an excellent start at Bolton, McNamara dribbling passed two opponents and scoring a cleverly worked goal within four minutes. Everton’s forwards continued to show intelligent combination and smart ball control but Codd was the only Bolton forward with progressive ideas. Elvy made a timely save from Hickson and Beards ran through to shoot over an open goal. Paulty passing spoiled several Bolton attacks and Clinton and Rankin defended well until they let in Codds, Leyfield, however, saved at the expense of a corner. Half-time; Bolton Wanderers Reserves 0, Everton reserves 1.
In a somewhat scrappy second half Everton continued to be the faster and more accomplished side but Hickson shot wide when Howe let him through and at the other end Leyfield dived to turn away a fast shot from Corfield. Final; Bolton Res 0, Everton Res 1.
EVERTON BUCKLE T(W)0 BUT LOST THEIR GRIP IN SECOND HALF
August 25, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton 3, Sheff Wed 3
By Contact
Everton’s rejuvenation in a brilliant first half did not last them throughout and in the end they were in grave danger of losing a match in which they had held a 2-0 lead. This time the attack played well, but there were deficiencies in defence which Wednesday were not slow to discover and exploit. Everton; Sagar, goal; Moore and Lindsay, backs; Donovan, Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Parker (J.W.), and Eglington, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday;- McIntosh, goal; Jackson and Kenny, backs; Carson, Turton and Witcomb (captain), half-backs; Finney, Sewell, Woodhead, Thomas, and Rickett, forwards. Referee; Mr. J. Bell (Northumberland). Everton renewed rivalry with comrades in distress Sheffield Wednesday, the occasion being notable for the first appearance in League football of Donald Donovan at right half-back in the Everton side. Parker took the place of the injured Potts at inside left. The weather was dull and there was some wind. Attendance at the start was about 30,000. Wednesday played in white and brought with them quite a contingent of followers. Whitcomb won the toss and elected to defend the Park goal. Everton opened in a blaze of enthusiasm and pressure once Wednesday’s first 30 seconds left wing pressure had been countered. The crowd seemed agreeably surprised at Everton’s confidence and ability although the only shot so far was a low one from Eglington who was too far out even to embarrass McIntosh.
Acrobatic Save
However, Wednesday’s comparative quietude was broken by the weaving Gannon who surprised Everton and the natives by delivering a vicious shot when it seemed he was about to place a pass. The shot was travelling over the bar but Sagar could afford to take no chances and had to handle it for a corner finishing his acrobatic save by making a one-point landing on his posterior. Next it was Everton’s turn to put new life into the hearts of their supporters. This time Parker changed direction quickly, edged the ball to Catterick who came laterally across the field and produced from nowhere as it were a tremendous right foot shot which McIntosh grasped in a terrific save not far from the inside of the post.
Chance Missed
A through pass by Fielding to Buckle caught that winger so unprepared that he had to run it out for a corner. Fielding who was close enough in to have shot, was only trying to make a first-class chance into a gilt-edged one. Parker had opened brightly and well and Donovan who has the build of Albert Virr of old, had shown good ideas and the ability to get up to the ball. When Lindsay was beaten in the air by a fast swerving pass; Finney was able to go on and put across a handing centre for which Sagar seemed hardly prepared at all events the ball struck the post and rebounded into play before it was banged away for a corner.
Glorious Shot
The game’s first goal at 14 minutes was to Everton, through Buckle. It was a glorious one. Fielding, with a hooked pass started him off. Buckle beat first Kenny and then veered in close and, despite being partly covered by Turton and by McIntosh; he hit a left foot shot so hard it was a wonder the back of the net was strong enough to hold it. Within 10 seconds of the kick off Sewell was crashing the ball over the Everton bar in a close-in shot of almost similar quality. Catterick with a header from a Buckle centre which McIntosh scrambled to field as Parker came in, proved further entertainment and joy for the Everton contingent.
Fast and Furious
Parker was at least giving the Everton attack and spirit it has rarely had in recent times. Everton’s usual notes of dropping back in defence allowed Gannon to come on and shoot at his leisure but Everton were still on too and only an ankle knock to Fielding caused a delay to the game which had been fast and furious. Whitcomb availed himself of the Everton opportunity to come on without challenge to indulging himself with a shot which Sagar fielded with some difficulty. Lindsay’s use of the ball was noted by the crowd but at this stage he Everton attack showed signs of slight irritation that some of their moves broke down at the critical stage through a faulty pass. Possibly they were aiming at too great a perfection. Some fresh life was brought to the Everton attack by Buckle, who hit a strong shot along, the turf and made Mcintosh stretch out and move out quickly to stop it.
Everton Get Nervy
Woodhead, in getting the benefit of a rebound of the ball between his head and Jones put his best foot forward and nothing stood between Sagar and his challenger. Wednesday centre forward did the only thing possible –he tried to place a shot, but it swung some yard wide. Wednesday’s persistent and able half-backs took a grip on the game now, and Everton’s defence was inclined to show signs of nerves. Everton were lucky to escape when Woodhead slewed the ball inches over the goal angle after Woodhead had first beaten Jones completely and had opened up the way for Sewell. The Everton of the moment was being harassed and opened defensively in such a way that it was almost criminal that Thomas should dig the ball over the bar when anything like a shot from his left foot would have brought the equalizer.
Parker on the Target
Parker delivered a similar shot a moment later but McIntosh this time fielded the ball when it was travelling outside. There was no mistaking the danger of Parker’s right foot shot a moment later, however, and McIntosh had to be at his tip top best to push this one away.
Buckle Again
A fine glancing header by Parker from Fielding’s centre made further work for a little McIntosh and for its thrills in the Wednesday goal the game as already worthwhile. Buckle’s second goal for Everton came at 42 minutes. Eglington had characteristically weaved inside 10 yards and put the ball through to the “Thin man” who brought the ball down and hit it beyond McIntosh in practically one and the game movement. –and Everton got an ovation going off! Half-time; Everton 2, Sheffield Wednesday nil.
The temper of Everton spectators today was never better typified than by the bugler who accompanied the start of the second half to the strains of a rather floried rendering of “ For they are Jolly Good Fellows.” By nodding the ball down to his feet from an Eglington centre and jabbing a left foot shot, Buckle was near to getting a hat-trick. Including dentally so far this season he is Everton’s only scorer.
Brilliant Solo Run
What should have produced the best goal of the match and the season, a long thrilling run by Finney failed because after beating man after man Sagar, advancing to meet him contrived to deflect the ball inches wide of the far upright. If ever a solo run deserved a goal it was this one. The referee rightly I think disregarded Everton’s appeal for a penalty when Buckley flung himself head-long at the penalty box area near the goal line when tackled by Kenny. Both players needed at attention after this crash. A mistake by Parker let a Sewell whose pass caught Woodhead just onside. Woodhead hit a cross shot fiercely but it veered away from goal and yet another good chance was lost. The quaintest interlude on any ground for a long time came when Eglington kept the ball in play against Jackson and nearly finished in the ranks of spectators as a result and then returning to the field found himself crossed by Turton who looked to have conceded a corner, but found the ball coming back to him off the corner flag.
Woodhead’s Goal
Wednesday got no more than their desserts at 55 minutes when Woodhead scored, Rickett took a corner on the right, Turton came up to try and convert it with his head, but far from doing that was an embarrassment to Thomas, who hooked the ball forward to Woodward to make a sharp pivot and then turn it beyond Sagar. Eglington was treated for injury, and while Harry Cooke was on Gannon suddenly appeared near the trainer’s box in front of the stand with a pigeon in his hand. How he came in possession of it is a mystery. Everton’s 2-1 lead nearly disappeared with a snap shot from Thomas which just grazed the bar, and then Fielding “fell down” in not realsing that the limping Eglington was far from fit and not ready to accept his back-heeled pass. The rain was now falling and so were Everton in the estimation of their followers Wednesday moving the ball upfield competently and in nice combined style, Parker left the field for attention for a moment. There was something of a scene when Donovan was concerned in a penalty box incident but there was no doubt the referee was right in giving an indirect free kick under the new obstruction rule, and before Rickett could take the kick Donovan and Thomas got at loggerheads and Thomas was spoken to. The same player finished this unusual free kick by accepting Rickett’s pass and shooting inches wide. Parker returned to find Everton hard up against it and with the terraces suddenly encoring with snowdrops –nearly everybody covered their heads with papers or programmes. There were two fouls against Everton in quick succession on either side of the field which were not in keeping with the best traditions of the club and it was ironic that in almost the next phase of the game Sewell leveled the scores. Rickett centred across goal and not a Sheffield forward could apply the finishing touch, but at outside right the ball was turned back, and Sewell paid a few more pounds of his £34,000 fee by slotting it almost as he pleased into the net.
In The Lead Again
For once McIntosh made a mistake when not timing his first away of an Eglington centre and with the goalkeeper and the defence as a whole all at seas Eglington in a diving header, turned the ball over the top. A moment later at 72 minutes the Wednesday defence blundered and Eglington, taking a Catterick pass, went on to turn the ball nearly past McIntosh –a goal effectively if not spectacularly taken. After McIntosh had fielded a Buckle shot Wednesday again got within a hairs-breath of 3-3 –this time when a Finney centre found Sewell smack in front of goal. Sewell had only to make true contact of any sort to score but the wet ball shot from his outstretched foot and went wide. When at 78 minutes Sewell scored again it was a clockwork move with Rickett supplying a topped centre and Sewell quietly but surely crouching a little glided the ball with his head out of Sagar’s reach. Wednesday seemed well satisfied to play for the drawn at this point and seemed to take one foot of the gas. Final; Everton 3, Sheffield Wednesday 3. Official attendance 42,025.
BOLTON RES V EVERTON RES
August 26, 1951. The Liverpool Football Echo
Bolton Res; Elvy, goal; Banks (R) and Banks (T), backs; Bell, Gillies, and Howe, half-backs; Holden, Corfield, Codd, Neill and Beards, forwards. Everton Res; Leyland, goal; Clinton and Rankin, backs; Cross, Forshaw, and Lello, half-backs; McNamara, Hampson, Hickson, Cummins, and Easthorpe, forwards. Referee; Mr. G. Ollerton (Preston).
In one of Everton’s attacks Hickson headed just over the Bolton bar and McNamara scored for the. He ran in towards the goal from his wing, cleverly dribbled round Elvy and put the ball at the back of an unguarded net. The Bolton defence was never happy against a fast attack in which Hickson was prominent. Leyland pushed a weak shot from Codd round the post with his knees after the Bolton leader had got round Forshaw. Half-time; Bolton nil, Everton 1. In the second half which produced poor football it was the turn of the Everton defence to withstand pressure. Several Bolton raids nearly brought the equalizer but the home forward line was slow to take opportunity and seemed reluctant to take a shot. Hickson proved himself a great trier in the Everton fore line, and Easthope showed his speed once by running through the Bolton defence his shot being stopped by Elvy’s body as he fell.
EVERTON GO FROM 2-0 TO 3-3 IN “DIV. 1” GAME
August 27, 191. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 3, Sheffield Wednesday 3
By Leslie Edwards
Everton showed fresh signs of life and spirit in building a 2-0 first half lead, but what can one say of a team which goes on to escape with a 3-3 ticket? Only that serious deficiencies in defence aided a very good Wednesday forward line to change completely the complexion of the game. There were moment’s when Wednesday seemed likely to win 4-3. What tragedy that would have been. A draw was fair, if vastly disappointing, to the majority of the 42,000 for whom the first half had been an unexpected joy. Parker, in the place of Potts, and the young Irishman, Donovan, at right half-back, both made import contributions to the side’s new-found liveliness and ability. Why should a team winning 2-0 (and very nearly 3-0) suddenly lose the initiative and end by surviving a number of hammer blows? The reasons are twofold, Everton still do not stay the distance, their policy of retrenchment and retreat when the other side is on top allows the half-back coming through to go on and on, unchallenged to make a telling pass, or even to become a sixth forward and shoot. Everton know their own policy best, but this system of theirs however successful, tends to give the other team undue belief in themselves and causes the Everton penalty box to be cluttered with defenders in an embarrassment of numbers.
Entertaining Artistic
Having said which I confess that one way (Everton’s) and another (Sheffield Wednesday’s) this was football as entertainment and artistic and full of attraction, as any between Division 1 teams. The Division 2 tag can mean nothing, save status, if Everton followers continue to be so satisfied. But I maintain that Everton need injections of confidence and talent in the form of new players if they are to regain Division 1 this season. Maybe those two beautifully made and taken goals by Buckle in the first half created a false impression. The game seemed good as over whereas the describing could not help noting the times Wednesday forwards made chances and then spoiled then by over elaborate or fancy finishing. One could not say that Wednesday gave no hint of what might happen in the second half, when first Woodhead and then Sewell got goals from leads by Rickett. Even then Eglington edging the ball neatly beyond McIntosh was to put Everton in front again. That Everton could not hold this position emphasizes further the fact that their defence was very faulty. No one – and Sagar and Jones both had opportunity –sought to interfere with the flight of a third Rickett centre off which Sewell glided a goal with his head. Misunderstanding or not this was serious blunder. While Everton were in their purple “patch” there was no holding them through that ungainly but most effective centre half Turton played more than fair and McIntosh made the save of the game from Parker. Some of these Everton attacks were so smooth and accurately carried out they might have come from the top team in Division 1. Not for years has there been such delighted enthusiasm from an Everton crowd.
Have A Future
Donovan a good header, and a wise user of the ball and Parker full of life and looking thoroughly at home in this company, are men with a future but Parker success may pose a special problem. Fielding and Buckle too, in interchanges were first rate, Fielding as provider and Buckle as the striking force. Wednesday with two fine fast wingers and the artful Sewell and Woodhead providing a continual threat to Jones played equally well when it was their turn, with the difference that they were serviced by two most dominant half-backs, Gannon and Witcomb. Gannon is not fast but he literally caught pigeons (or rather a pigeon), handling over this grounded bird to the tender care of someone on the terraces, in one of the game’s few lulls. Lindsay, practically in the first half, was a wonderful example of the thoughtful back, aiming always at something constructive but he too, had moments of stress in the general fading of his side. Of Farrell one must say something which has been in mind for some time. It is this. No matter how earnest how fit how full of fire and ability one is –and Farrell has all these assets –there are moments when the astute pass can place the ball as effectively as a long excursion unfield with the ball tied to the foot. In short a half-back can often profit by sending the ball, rather than painstakingly taking it. The need for some restraining and calming influence too, is required by Everton when they begin to fear their lead is slipping. Farrell aimed at allaying fears and keeping his side balanced, but it just did not work out that way. Many people cane away vowing that two points had been thrown away. Well hardy. Everton scored one, and the other was well deserved by Wednesday.
EVERTON CHANGES
August 27, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Lindley is Recalled
Jones Switched to Right Full Back Against Brentford Tonight
Ranger’s Notes
Everton make one change in their defence, involving two positions, for tonight’s match in London against Brentford, Jones taking over from Moore at right back and Lindley coming in at centre half. Moore has had a bad time during the past week. He has been right off form since the start of the season, and has displayed lapses which have been all the more disappointing in view of the promise he one time showed. A rest will doubtless do him good and help him to recapture his former standard. Lindley’s height and experience should make him a useful asset in the pivotal position, while Jones, I have felt for some time is likely to make a better back than centre half. Elsewhere the side is unchanged. Brentford will field the same side as on Saturday. Everton; Sagar; Jones, Lindsay; Donovan, Lindley, Farrell; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Parker, Eglington. Brentford; Jefferis; Horne, Munro; Harper, Greenwood, Hill; Goodwin, Dare, Monk, Sparring, Paton.
Catterick, Parker, Fielding and Eglington are all nursing knocks from Saturday’s game, but are expected to be all right by this evening. Potts and Grant travelled in the party in case of need.
STILL TOTALISING
August 27, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
While Everton were a much improved side against Sheffield Wednesday, particularly in attack, they were still in some respects tantalizing and disappointing. After enjoying a two-goal lead at the interval and having three-fourths of the game territorially they should have been able to avoid having to hang by the skin of their teeth in order to save a point at the death. Everton’s first half forward display was quite heartening. Parker was the most persistent shooter but it was Buckle who snapped up the goals, and two very good ones they were. Then came the fade-out and once Sheffield started hitting back in the second half the home defence again showed traces of nerves though not so blatantly as on Wednesday. Even Lindsay who earlier had been cool and collected and had made excellent use of almost every clearance lost some of his poise and Donovan began to feel the strain. Twice the Yorkshiremen leveled the score and but for a shocking miss from four yards by Sewell they might have bagged both points. Everton in the end were glad to share the spoils yet they had enough chances in the first half to put Sheffield’s prospects of even one point right out of court.
A Promising Debut
Despite this improvement Everton are still a good way from looking a likely promotion prospect. Possibly the changes now made in defence will help to strengthen them further. Donovan though obviously immature and affected by the occasion showed that he knew what he had to do, though he wasn’t always able to do it. He used his brains and didn’t bash the ball away, anywhere. It was a promising debut, even if not a scintillating one. The Blues attack had both subtly (mainly from Fielding) and a certain amount of punch with Buckle and Parker shooting strongly and Catterick always a genuine trier. Eglington, as usual made the most of his speed, and though having hard lines, once or twice still dissipated his chances. If only he could finish the right way his goal tally would be pretty hefty. Sheffield Wednesday struck me as a very sound lot all round and their wing halves gave invaluable support to an attack which moved smoothly and confidently. Everton still have the back padelling bug when the opposing forwards line is bearing down on them. On one occasion Gannon getting the ball just inside his own half, was allowed to work it to the verge of the penalty area. And then get in his shot without one defender making a challenge. If this is “defence in depth” then give me something more old fashioned –but also more efficacious.
FATAL ERROR
August 27, 1951. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Blame Ted Sagar, Peter Farrell, Tommy Jones, and Jack Lindsay if you like for standing still at Goodison Park watching a Rickett centre drop over without doing anything about it, but the elements had a little something to do with Everton being held to a 3-3 draw by Sheffield Wednesday. About that lapse which enabled Jackie Sewell to snatch the final equalizer. Well, Sagar advanced to catch the ball, and when Ted does that it is duty of everyone else to leave it to him. The others did, but Ted, for some unknown reason, hesitated and that gave Sewell his chance. Pity, but there it was, and Wednesday escaped what seemed to be certain defeat a few minutes earlier. Buckle had put the Blues two up and just missed a hat-trick but Finney engineered goals for Woodhead and Sewell as the Blues faltered. No loss of confidence or ability about Everton, however, for they went right away for Eglington to regain the lead with his right foot. Then came that misunderstanding and the gift to Wednesday, who almost went on to win a match which will live in memory for Everton’s first half brilliance, in which the whole team excelled and for Wednesday’s fighting rally.
Don’s Success
In my opinion this was a First Division match masquerading under it Second Division label. These may not be promotion teams yet, but they will be somewhere around at the vital time. If this be Second Division fare, then give us more of it. The game had everything except that which we never want anything approaching questionable tactics. This was as clean as it was hard and exhilarating. Manager Cliff Britton has promised to infiltrate into the team on the odd occasion the young players being groomed for stardom (the young reserves won at Bolton) and I think he has produced a winner in Don Donovan the young Irish half-back, who made such a successful debut. Looking at Donovan of the sure tackle, heading ability and the essence of constructing artistry, it brought to my mind memories of Cliff himself and of Joe Mercer when they were Donovan’s age. There is much of them both in young Don’s style, and for that we can be grateful. Players like Cliff and Joe do not often pass this way. I mentioned the elements. Well it was not until the rain came to make the ball more that spilt-second faster on the turf that Wednesday came into this game with a chance. That skidding ball upset the Blues defence more than somewhat. Everton late on too, had Buckle, Parker and Eglington nursing leg injuries so to hold that powerful Wednesday side with its great strength at wing-half, was quite an achievement. Good all-round display, this, with the Buckle-Fielding wing dazzlingly building up on the Donovan construction. Eglington at his sparkling best. Lindsay easily the best back on the field, and Parker quite a success until his injury. They were the highspots of this latest Everton opus.
EVERTON CHANGES FOR TONIGHT’S GAME
August 27, 1951 The Evening Express
Lindley at Centre-Half
Jones at Full Back
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Maurice Lindley, the tall Keighley half-back will make his first appearance of the season when he plays centre-half for Everton against Brentford at Griffin Park tonight. The introduction of Lindley is part of a two-change plan designed to bring greater steadiness in the defence and to obviate the strange falling away we saw in the Brentford game and at Goodison on Saturday when Sheffield Wednesday fought back for a draw, a match which is reviewed in the Sports Log page five. To make way for Lindley, a player of vast experience and with a certain command which should be invariable, Tommy Jones goes to right back, Eric Moore being omitted. In Jones’s case this is an example of reversion to an original position, for Tommy was a right back in his junior days and played for the Army in that position in several representative matches. Everton who travelled to London yesterday evening, have a similar mission in the Metropolis to that of Liverpool on Saturday but whereas the Reds had previously won at Stamford Bridge the Blues have never yet won at griffin Park. Five games have been played there and Everton’s “bag” is one point out of ten.
‘Double Chance.
This will be Everton’s first chance to record their opening “double” of the new season for they defeated Brentford through Ted Buckle’s goal at Goodison last Wednesday. That win was none too-convincing against a fast and workmanlike rather than a clever football combination but still Everton produced the greater charm during the first half, and definitely were the more versatile side. The compact Griffin Park will react against the Blues who like the wider green spaces, yet a reproduction of the type of football which exposed as many weaknesses in the Wednesday ranks during the first half should enable the Blues to at least open their away account, if not winning outright. Everton; Sagar; Jones, Lindsay; Donovan, Lindley, Farrell; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Parker, Eglington.
BRENTFORD TAKE THEIR REVENGE
August 28, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Brentford 1, Everton 0
Brentford considered they were unfortunate to lose their game with Everton at Goodison Park last week. Last night in London, they had their revenge when they beat Everton by the same total 1-0, with a goal in eight-three minutes. Everton had held on well in the second half, and it seemed that they might get away with a point, always a satisfactory result on an away ground. Such was not to be their fortune, however, for just as we were waiting the final whistle Sperrin came with a shot that struck the underneath side of the crossbar and it was a goal. A very important goal too, for Brentford, for they had not been doing any too well.
Promise Unfulfilled
The first half was thoroughly enjoyable for there was any amount of good football by both sides, with Everton perhaps a shade the better craftsmen. But all this good play counted for nought when it came to the final move –scoring a goal. Time and again the ball was flashed over the crossbar or outside and neither goalkeeper could claim to have been busy in the first half hour. I liked the way Everton full backs linked up with their centre-half during this period. I also liked the way Donovan pushed his passes through along the ground, but I am sorry to say that there most of the good work ended. Some of Everton’s combination was top class, but there has to be more than that in football. There has got to be goals and there should have been goals for the openings were there. Buckle might have had two and Sperrin and Dare might also have been among the scorers.
Defence Pressed
The second half as at Goodison fell short of its predecessor, it was earnest endeavour more than skilful movements and it has to be admitted that Brentford were the more aggressive side during this period. At times they attacked relentlessly and the Everton defence was often hard put to check them. But once again their bad shooting undid everything until hat 83rd minute when Sperrin seemed to pick up the ball from nowhere and crash it into the net. Almost on time Fielding tried to snatch a point but his angular shot hit the side netting. To emphasise the fact that there was little good shooting, I have only to tell you that the game was half an hour old before either goalkeeper had a shot worthy of the name to save. Indeed, Sagar’s first save was from a full back, while the Brentford wing halves and centre half were their most prolific shooters. It was unfortunate from Everton’s point of view that they should hold on so long and then get no reward for it. But that is football. Brentford;- Jefferiris, goal; Horne and Munro, backs; Harper, Greenwood and Hill, half-backs; Goodwin, Dare, Monk, Sperrin, and Patron, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Jones and Lindsay, backs; Donovan, Lindley, and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Buckle, Fielding, Catterick, Parker, and Eglington, forwards.
LATE WINNER
August 28, 1951. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Despite the wealth of Brentford’s second half pressure, Everton looked set for a half share of the points at Griffin Park last night for Brentford’s finishing was inept. Then seven minutes from the end the blow fell. Defenders failed to close the gap as Sperrin burst through inside the penalty area, and eventually the Brentford man scored with a short-range shot which struck the crossbar and bounded down over the line Everton claimed afterwards that Sperrin controlled the ball with his hands before he shot (writes Radar). “I did not see it myself, but certainly the goal was a shattering blow coming when it did. Yet the plain fact must be stated that Everton still did not completely fit the bill in a game which produced some considered and pleasing football in the first half. “To me the most significant feature was that neither forward line produced one accurate low shot throughout the 90 minutes. “Brentford’s forwards continually sent the ball high over the top, Everton were hesitant when chances came their way. Buckle who had shown up so well as a marksman in the previous two games, missed two chances within the opening 15 minutes. “Catterick could do little right against the resolute Greenwood and his colleagues invariably waited for the ball to come to them or when in possession, held it so long that they were dispossessed or gave the Brentford defence ample time to cover up. No, the lack of “fire” and penetrative power in this Everton attack, particularly against a strong tackling defence, still remains. “Defensively there are encouraging feature to report. Lindley’s heights and strength in intervention gave him superiority over Monk; Tom Jones, after a shaky start, improved as the game continued, and Donovan, if inclined to lose his positional senses at times and to find the pace pretty hot in the second half, is undeniably a wing half of promise. “I liked the Everton use of the short ball in defence, as a prelude to initiating attacks but they will have to guard against over-exploiting the policy. “Sagar was his customary competent self, and Farrell came successfully through a vast amount of hard graft but there are problems which still require solving.
EVERTON F.C. AND VAUGHAN
August 28, 1951. The Evening Express
By Radar
Everton manager, Mr. Cliff Britton, asked today whether he was interested in Charlton Athletic’s centre-forward. Charlie Vaughan who has asked to be placed on the transfer list, replied that Charlton’s directors had not yet met to discuss Vaughan’s request. Until the London club had come to a definite decision and full details were available to the Everton board, he could not say whether they would be interested or not. I understand that Charlton will meet to discuss the matter tomorrow. I understand that Charlton will not stand in his way if he is not happy at the Valley. Vaughan who made a similar request last season but subsequently withdrew it, toured Canada with the F.A. team last summer. Invariably he has played well against Everton, and particularly at Goodison Park. He returns to the Charlton side for tomorrow’s game against Preston at the Valley.
Everton Changes
Everton make only one change from the team which won at Bolton Wanderers for the Central League match against Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park tomorrow at 6.30 p.m. George Saunders is at left back for Rankin who has gone back off leave. Everton Reserves; Leyland, Clinton, Saunders; Cross, Forshaw, Lello; McNamara, Hampson, Hickson, Cummins, Easthope.
ONLY GOALS COUNT
August 28, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
If games were won on points Everton would have won at Brentford last night, for they were definitely the better footballing team. Unfortunately only goals go on the register, when the final reckoning has to be made. Brentford just managed to turn the tables with a goal in the last few minutes which had a big element of luck about it. Brentford were just as they were at Goodison, a fiery side which seemed to rush their defences, whereas Everton were more methodical but like their rivals not good at shooting. The first half display was very good, for we saw some lovely passing movements even though they did not culminate in goals (writes Stork). Had some movements been finished off with a goal they would have been voted picture goals and the play given its full merit but without the goals the good football was forgotten. Brentford tried to emulate their opponents craftsmanship so that we seen entertained but that was not enough. If the chances had not been there I would have had no complaint, but they were and were not accepted, which was most aggravating. I don’t recall so many shots flying over both crossbar. If it was so tantalizing after the joy of watching the inefficacies of the game, which should have had but the result –goals. It is an old Everton falling and one that will have to be remedied, for games are being lost when they should have been won. Had Buckle taken two easy chances early on I would be telling you a different story, for a goal at that point would have had tremendous effect upon Brentford. Brentford were just as bad in that respect for they made openings by speedy football and then sent the ball hurting all round the woodwork. One of the main faults with this present Everton forward line that there are too few challengers in the line when it comes to a meeting with a rival. After the first half the game degenerated into a move hectic affair, and it was not nearly so good a spectacle. No doubt Brentford will claim it served them better. True it brought them the two point and that was the all-important factor so far as they were concerned. Sperrin’s goal came with seven minutes remaining and his shot hit the crossbar, bounded down and apparently over the line as Jones tried to brush it out. Streaky but a goal and that was sufficient to send Everton away pointless just when we were thinking in terms of a least a half-share. There were some extremely clever moves by Everton in the first “45” and I think the defence was infinitely better than it has been. Lindley was solid Jones got better as the game progressed and Donovan gave a first class display –passing well, and tackling successfully. He had a lean spell in the second half but he looked most promising. Farrell did two men’s work, which leaves only the forwards to come under the eye. Catterick while making some nice passes gave Greenwood too easy a time and the best of the forwards were Fielding and Buckle. It must not be forgotten that the Brentford defenders tackled with knife-like precision, aye roughed Everton out of it. Territorially they had the measure of Everton in the second half, more by rush tactics than any artful scheming or passing. Everton are “blooding” their young players and they came out of their ordeal with distinct credit. We will possibly see some more of the younger school in the side before long. The great need is a forward or two who can finish well. Goalkeeper Jefferis was none too convincing, but the Everton forwards did not treat him as they should have done.
Goodison Reserves
Everton Reserves home tomorrow, evening to Sheffield Wednesday Reserves will field the same side as that which defeated Bolton’s second string at Burnden Park, on Saturday’s except that Saunders comes in for Rankin. Team;- Leyland; Clinton, Saunders; Cross, Forshaw, Lello; McNamara, Hampson, Hickson, Cummins, Easthope.
The Blues’ Central League side has got off to a very good start with two away wins and a home draw. A week ago they defeated Sheffield Wednesday Reserves at Hillsbrough.
EVERTON RES 8, SHEFFIELD WENESDAY RES 0
August 30, 1951. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Reserves gave a sparkling exhibition of football at Goodison Park last evening to trounce Sheffield Wednesday. Highlights of the match was a grand display by Hickson who led the Everton attack. He scored five of Everton’s goals and accomplished he hat-trick. Jones was the visitors best forward and Forshaw put in yeoman work for the winners. Everton’s other scorers were Hampson, Easthope and Lello. Clinton missed a penalty.
ONE ON THE DOORSTEP
August 30, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
Everton’s Search
Claims While Blues Watch Vaughan
Ranger’s Notes
While Everton directors Ernest Green and Manager Cliff Britton were at Charlton last night watching transfer listed Charlie Vaughan, 22-years old David Kickson, one of Everton’s reserves centre forwards, was doing what has not come naturally to Goodison’s leaders for a long time – popping the ball into the net at regular intervals. Hickson got five of Everton’s eight goals against Sheffield Wednesday Reserves and played so brilliantly that obviously he must come into consideration for senior selection at a very early date maybe even this week-end. The Blues could do with a drop of young new blood in the forward line, particularly somebody who can score goals when the chances are there. Hickson is a native of Ellesmere Port, from whence so many good players have sprung and has been with Everton since his early teens. He is nicely built for the position, has done his military service, and has been a full time professional for the past 18 months. As a youngster he played for both Cheshire and Liverpool County F.A. youth teams. I have had good reports about him for some time from those who regularly watch Everton’s Central League games. Last season Hickson played in 22 reserves fixtures and scored 10 goals.
Vaughan Bid Unlikely
As for Vaughan, who got a hat-trick last night against Preston, Mr. Britton states that Everton’s visit was only a routine check-up and that it by no means follows they will be in the bidding. In any case, Vaughan has expressed a desire to remain in the South. In addition to Everton, clubs who watched the Charlton man included Wolverhampton, Tottenham, Fulham and Chelsea. With three London clubs interested, it looks as though Vaughan will not travel far. Don’t be surprised if it turns out to be Fulham.
Unlucky Leeds
Major Buckley, is faced by team selection problems for Leeds United’s home game with Everton on Saturday. Last night’s match brought four more casualties and Leeds now have seven players on the injured list. There are Iggleden, Milburn, Barritt, Kirk, Charles Browning and Shott. Everton will not announce their side until tomorrow.
VAUGHAN NOT FOR EVERTON
August 30, 1951. The Evening Express
Charlton Star
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Mr. Ernest Green, senior director of Everton F.C. and Mr. Cliff Britton, manager, last night saw Charles Vaughan the transfer listed centre-forward, do the hat-trick for Charlton Athletic, but any thoughts of Vaughan joining Everton can be dismissed. This was, says Mr. Britton, purely a routine check up, as Everton must do on all players who came on offer. Everton have no further interest in Vaughan who will, in all probability join a London Club, for he is anxious to remain in his own area. Fulham are favourities for his signature. The most encouraging news, from an Everton point of view, is that 22-year-old Davie Hickson, scored five goals, including the hat-trick for the Central League team against Sheffield Wednesday last night when Everton won 8-0.
GOODISON TIT-BIT
August 31, 1951. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton will have one of their biggest Central league attendances of the season at Goodison Park tomorrow, when the attractive Newcastle United come to challenge the young stars of the Blues. The Blues have had an excellent start to the Central League campaign and have dropped only one point out of eight. They drew at home with Leeds United, but then won at Sheffield Wednesday 2-1, repeated the effort at Bolton Wanderers, and on Wednesday evening enjoyed an eight goals revel against Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison. The deeds of the younger Blues have captured the fancy of the club supporters and as Newcastle will be including a number of players of League experience, this should prove quite an occasion. Everton; Leyland; Clinton, Rankin; Cross, Forshaw,Lello; Gibson, Hampson, Vizard, Cummins, Easthope.
EVERTON WILL HAVE TWO LEAGUE DEBUANTS AT LEEDS
August 31, 1951. The Evening Express
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Everton will be at Elland Road facing Leeds United, with two 21-year-old debutants in the attack – Davie Hickson, centre forward, and Tony McNamara at outside-right.
Blues at Leeds
The injection of a little new blood into the Everton team now and again can have an excellent effect. We saw it last Saturday by the introduction of Don Donovan, and today Manager Cliff Britton up grades two more, and if they can reproduce the form they showed against the Wednesday in midweek when McNamara made many of the openings from which Hickson scored his five goals, all will be well. Hickson is from Ellesmere Port and a fast virile and opportunists leader, while McNamara went to the Blues from St. Matthews in 1949 and was signed professional last year. Their introduction emphasizes that Everton have a wealth of young talent and, what is more, the courage to utilse it. Leeds are hard hit by injuries and face a centre half problem. This will be Everton’s 14th visit to Leeds United, and their first for five seasons. It will be their first ever meeting in the Second Division and strong as United are. I fancy Everton can record their first away win of the season. Everton; Sagar; Jones, Lindsay; Donovan, Lindley, Farrell; McNamara, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, Eglington.
TWO EVERTON DEBUTANTS
August 31, 1951. The Liverpool Echo
McNamara and Hickson in Side to Visit Leeds United
Ranger’s Notes
Everton include two debutants in their side to meet Leeds United at Leeds tomorrow, Tony McNamara and Dave Hickson being chosen in an effort to improve the attack. McNamara, who takes the place of Buckle at outside right is a 21-year-old Liverpool lad who has been with Everton since 1947 when he signed as an amateur after service with St. Matthews. He became a professional last season. The dropping of Ted Buckle may seem rather a surprise for he has scored three of Everton’s four goals to date, but McNamara gets his chance because of his outstanding play in the reserve team. Dave Kickson has been on the verge of senior preferment for some time, but clinched the matter by getting five goals for the reserve team against Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park on Wednesday evening. He has been a full time professional for 18 months was a part-timer before that, and still earlier had two season’s at Goodison as an amateur. Hickson has got a chance to make a name for himself. Everton have long needed a scoring leader, and have sought for one in many quarters. It would be in keeping with the club’s desire to encourage its own junior talents, if Hickson and McNamara both fill the bill. Here’s wishing them the best of luck. Leeds have made changes owing to injury. Kirk a 21-year-old centre half, is called on to lead the attack, and Kerfoot formerly with Stalybridge Celtic makes his first appearance of the season. Teams; Leeds United; Taylor; Dunn, Milburn; Kefoot, McCabe, Burden; Harrison, Iggleson, Kirk, Miller, Williams. Everton; Sagar; Jones, Lindsay; Donovan, Lindley, Farrell; McNamara, Fielding, Hickson, Parker, Eglington.
Reserves Debutant
Everton also have a centre forward debutant in their Central League side, home to Newcastle United Reserves (2.30) in Colin Vizard, the 18-year-old boy who scored 80 goals in the Bootle J.O.C last season and totaled 109 in all games. He comes from Newton-Le-Williams. This will be his first Central League appearance. Everton Reserves; Leyland; Clinton, Rankin; Cross, Forshaw, Lello; Gibson, Hampson, Vizard, Cummins, Easthope.
August 1951