EVERTON 1 SUNDERLAND 0
December 4 1912. The Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON'S STAMINA OVERCOMES SUNDERLAND.
Football is not likely to die yet awhile if variety continues to beats chief characteristic. It is dullness that kills. When the national game develops a monotonous sameness or interest must correspondingly fizzle out. We are all familiar with the class of scribe who affects to teach the world how to suck eggs, and the footballer in particular to score goals. Players may perform inconsistently and disappointedly but you never get them to kick a ball by rule; it is the unfathomable depths of uncertainty and varying incidents, which is the backbone of the spectators' interest. Words are inadequate to describe with any exactitude any football match and even the cinematography –wonderful' in its way – leaves to the imagination. These are the seasons, which may lift a game out of mediocrity, and give it an honourable niche in the temple of football fame. Such was the fight between Everton and Sunderland at Goodison Park. It was by no manner of means a sensational struggle nor a brilliantly scientific exhibition of football art, yet it was a game with just sufficient variety to do credit to the players and gratify the onlookers –more than this we have no reason to expect even though at odd times we may be exhilarated and thrilled by a game of exceptional brilliance.

SUNDERLAND'S SPIRITED START.
For many years past Sunderland has been a name to conjure, with in Liverpool where some of their finest displays have been given. Their present team boasts three internationals –Thomson Bridgetts, and Holley. The Wearsiders do not draw immense gates nowadays, put a crowd of 20,000 at Goodison is a compliment to any team these times. The visitors leapt into their stride straight away, going off with such a rattle that the Evertonian defence soon fell into a nervous frantic state. Fleetwood was obviously at sea, and allowed Holley to make many dangerous incursions. Bridgett and Mordue adopted forceful tactics, and their enterprise proved successful in fluttering the Everton dovetails. But Sunderland failed to administer the coup de grace successfully though they cannot be charged with weakness or frittering away their chances. For the Blues, Gourlay was absolutely bottled up in the first half, but Holley was all fizz and off colour –in marked contrast to the Everton centre. The apeptitude of the home halves was most unusual. Bridges and Gemmill having very little difficulty in passing Harris and putting in dangerous crosses which flustered Stevenson and Macconnachie.

WEARSIDERS PRESS HARD.
During this period of stress and strain several dangerous drives emanated from Holley which Bridgett, Mordue, and Cuggy sent in some dangerous curlers. For nearly half an hour Sunderland dominated the situation. Gradually the Blues gained courage, as Bradshaw and Davidson began to assimilate better. The inside left delighted with footwook of the daintiest and was quite magnetic in drawing off the opposition to himself. Davidson with a little more scope became quite enterprising, though he made little headway against such ruthless adversaries as Thomson, Forster and Troughear. On the opposing wing, with the aid of Thomson, Milton, and a big dour half-back, peculiarly styled Guggy, had kept the reliable Beare very quit. The Blackpool star although on the small size, is one of the most courageous of footballers, and he soon resented the only arrogance of the towering half-back. The crowd sympathised with Beare, and applauded encouragingly whenever he outwitted his brawny adversary. Fleetwood and Gourlay were quite out of the hunt prior to the interval, though both warmed to their work later on.

GOURLAY'S GRITTY GOAL.
When the teams left the field for the usual breather, he would have been a supreme optimist who could conscientiously predict a victory for the Blues. Soon after hostilities were resumed it became apparent that Sunderland could not go the pace, at which they had started, and were content to ease off considerably, so that the quality of the game deteriorated, especially as the Blues seemed quite enable to work satisfactorily' together. In this hail, Walter Scott found his old colleagues much more troublesome, though he dealt with all that came his way with confidence and ease. As the Wearsiders fell away, so the Toffees gradually felt their feet and became more venturesome. Twenty minutes' after the restart, Makepeace swung the ball over to Davidson, who found himself clear of the tenacious Forester. Troughear for once was caught napping, and Davidson forged ahead to the corner flag, before attemp0ting to middle. Gourlay, who had position himself much more effectively this half, raced ahead to meet a perfect centre from Davidson right in the goalmouth. The home centre got his cranium to the sphere and diverted it into the net. It was a splendid demonstration of the scientific truth that an accurate centre from the corner flag is the most effective. After this there was no holding the Blues and for twenty minutes Sunderland was quite outclassed. Everton's transformation was simply marvellous and the quality of their work reminded the spectators of the palmiest class of football. Still, like Sunderland in the first half the Blues might storm the Sunderland fortress, but they could not carry it a second time. That wonderful twenty minutes, however, proved up to the belt that the Blues are a really splendid combination, and if they play up with full confidence many brilliant victorious are in store for them. Teams: - Everton: - Scott goal, Stevenson, and Macconnachie (Captain), backs, Harris, Fleetwood, and Makpeace, half-backs. Beare, Jefferis, Gourlay, Bradshaw and Davidson forwards. Sunderland: - Walter Scott goal, Troughear and Milton, backs, Forester, Thomson, and Cuggie, half-backs, Mordue, Buchan, Holley, Gemmill, and Bridgett, forwards.

FRANK BRADSHAW’S TRANSFER
Athletic News - Monday 04 December 1911
The difficulties attendant upon the transfer of Frank Bradshaw to Everton, as narrated a fortnight ago in our “Stray Leaves,” have been settled to the satisfaction of all occurred.  A meeting of the representatives of the three clubs concerned was held in Sheffield last Thursday, when Messrs. Cuff and Kelly (Everton), A.J. Darnell and H. Chapman (Northampton), J.C. Clegg; Nickson, and A.J. Dickinson (Sheffield Wednesday) came to terms.   Everton’s original offer to Northampton was agreed upon, and the amount of the transfer fee, as reported in our issue of three weeks ago, of 1,200, may be accepted as broadly correct.  Northampton and the Wednesday clubs also came to an understanding, so that the affair will not need the intervention of the League authorities in London today.  Everton are quite satisfied with their bargain.  We may add that Everton have been prospecting in the vicinity of West Ham, Dan Shea being the subject of their investigation.  If ever Dan Shea does leave West Ham United –a change by no means expected –he will not forsake London.  Like the Christy minstrels of long ago, Dan Shea does not favour the idea of performing out of London. 

EVERTON GOSSIP
Athletic News - Monday 04 December 1911
Everton are likely to continue with their experiments in connection with the centre forward position.  There was an idea of playing Gracie against Sunderland, and it would not be surprising to find this player operating as leader of the attack in the next league game.
A collection was made on the Everton ground during the interval of the League match with Sunderland in connection with the recent mill disaster in Liverpool.  This realized nearly 22 pounds. 

EVERTON'S UNPROLIFIC FORWARDS
Athletic News - Monday 04 December 1911
Everton 1, Sunderland 0
By Junius
Few teams have reduced the ability to win a league match by the narrowest possible margin to a finer art than the Everton eleven. Only once since September 30 have they scored more than one goal in a competition fixture; yet, out of nine engagements decided since that date, they have annexed no fewer than eleven points out of a possible eighteen. In achieving this result they have won five games and drawn one, and their most prolific scoring contest was when they netted the ball twice in their game with Bolton Wanderers at Burnden Park. In one respect it may be argued that the position occupied by the club in the League chart is satisfactory. But when we consider that the Everton attackers have participated in nine consecutive League fixtures, and have only obtained nine goals; in fact, have but once scored more than a solitary point in any of these engagements, there can be only one conclusion drawn. Just imagine, five goals as the net result of six successive matches! Five forwards striving for nine hours to find the net, and the result of their conjoined endeavours is five goals! The game, with Sunderland was quite an ordinary affair. In the first half the Wearsiders were the better team, and had the chances formulated by Bridgett been accepted, the visitors must have complacently smiled at each other when the interval arrived. The outside left was the dominating personality during this period.
GOURLAY'SGOAL.
Everton shaped much more satisfactorily in the second stage of the proceedings, but Sunderland ought to have obtained the lead, for Gemmill missed a rare opening from Mordue’s centre. At length Makepeace pieced cleverly wide to Davidson, who had been playing capital football, and a centre from him was excellently diverted past Walter Scott by Gourlay, whose header utterly baffled the custodian. Then we saw something approaching the real Everton, and at the same time the sterling resistance of Walter Scott was just as finely forthcoming. Twice did the ex-Everton keeper save great shots from Bradshaw, and equally clever clearances from Jefferis and Gourlay were made. A breakaway by Mordue nearly equalized matters, for a glorious drive from the outside right extended William Scott to the utmost, but an unproductive corner was all the reward that ensued from a really grand bit of footwork. Although Everton won, their play left much to be desired. Gourlay scored the only goal of the game, and in this respect excelled every other player on the held. There are, of course, other incidentals that used to be considered necessary for a centre forward to occasionally exhibit, such as distributing the play to the wings, and dealing adroitly with the incoming centres therefrom, but perhaps it is advisable to dispense with these old-fashioned notions. Nowadays the idea seems to be to get goals, anyhow; the centre-forward must be educated to the high level of an automaton. I should not be in the least degree surprised to learn that Gourlay satisfied his sponsors.
THE VALUE OF MAKEPEACE.
On the left wing Davidson accomplished. Much useful work, and, along with Jefferis, bore off the honours in attack. The former's centres were often dangerous, and he showed more than ordinary ability in baffling the opposing backs. Bradshaw was little in evidence until the second half had well progressed, but some of his maneuvers during this period were exceedingly clever. Beare was not often noticeable, but this may have been the result of not feeling in the best of health. At half-back, Makepeace was once more the outstanding figure, and his consistency is remarkable. Were he to develop a penchant for dwindling away into serious lapses, the Everton outlook would be ominously darkened. Fleetwood and Harris were below their usual form, and were often beaten by the sturdy Sunderland forwards. Macconnachie was the better of the full-backs, though Stevenson was more efficient after the change of ends than in the earlier stages. William Scott kept a good goal, and his defence before the interval was most praiseworthy. Like his namesake, Walter Scott gave a grand exhibition, which, though crowded into the last quarter of an hour of the contest, did not diminish in excellence thereby. Troushear and Milton were capital full-backs, kicking cleanly and with judicious vigour, while in the intermediate line none did more capable work than Cuggy. Thomson was not so prominent, and Forster did not convey the idea of being an exemplary half-back, especially in dealing with his forwards. In the front rank Bridgett played a sterling game in the first half, his tricky footwork and cunning centres meriting some substantial reward. Afterwards he was subdued, but Mordue took up the cast-off mantle, and was about the cleverest forward on the field. Holley put in some grand work in the centre, but, as a line, the men did not blend into an incisive force. Everton; - Scott (William); Stevenson, Maconnachie; Harris, Fleetwood, Makepeace: Beare, Jefferis, Gourlay, Bradshaw, and Davidson. Sunderland.—Scott (Walter): Troughear, Milton; Forster, Thomson, Cuggy, Mordue, Buchan, Holley, Gemmell, and Bridgett. Referee; F. Heath, Birmingham.

P Hill to Swindon
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 06 December 1911
Swindon have secured the signature P. Hill who last season played at back fori Airdrieoniang. Six years ago Hill was with ' Southampton, and since then has seen service with Everton and Manchester City.

BLACKPOOL RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 0
December 6, 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 10)
Everton failed to make the most of their chances at Blackpool, and to this failing must be attributed their ability to extract the full points. Both sides made stern efforts to score, but weak work in front of goal was responsible for a goalless draw . Everton: - Berry, goal, R. Balmer, and Meunier, backs, Allan Weller and Grenyer, half-backs, Pinkney, Lacey, Gracie, Burton, and Gault, forwards.

BLACKBURN ROVERS 2 EVERTON 1
December 11 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
EVERTON UNLUCKY AT BLACKBURN.
If there be any comfort in the contemplation of what is commonly called “a moral victory.” Everton have every reason to feel satisfied with their visit to Ewood Park on Saturday. Unfortunately this description of triumph carries no points with it, and in League warfare it is points-like little things –that tell. Supporters of the Goodison Park brigade, however, will doubtless read with feelings of unmingled pleasure that the Evertonians gave a most brilliant display against the Rovers, and it was only at the last moment that a division of the spoils was matched from them. Their general work, both fore and aft, strongly reminded one of the old days of the club when prefect combination prevailed. On Saturday the leather was swung between the halves and forwards with an accuracy that was admirable and the only flaw in these really pretty movements was a certain hesitancy in front of goal. Had the shooting been sharper the result of the game must have been in favour of Macconnachie and his men. Advantage should have been taken of the obvious slackness of the Blackburn backs, both of whom began very shakily; and though Cowed rapidly regained his coolness, much damage might have been done before his recovery. In the first period particularly Everton were much the cleverer side, and we repeat, gave one of their best and brightest expositions of the Association code.

ANOTHER QUESTIONABLE PENALTY.
The opening stages of the game were marked by some very delightful footwork, in which long passing was the dominant feature. Time after time the Everton halves, among whom Fleetwood was especially prominent, held up the home forwards. The visitors' front line, on the other hand, made repeated advances, Davidson and Bradshaw making Crompton look very small; and after twenty minutes' play the inside left gave Everton the lead. This was the result of a combined movement, which appeared to completely baffle the home defenders, and Bradshaw taking a feeble return from Smith, hooked the ball into the corner of the net. From this point onwards there was no doubt as to which was the superior team but the weakness in front of goal already indicated proved Everton's undoing. Thus the Rovers began to force the pace, and shortly before the interval Harris was adjudged to have handled the ball in the penalty area. From the press stand it seemed as though the leather had struck his shoulder and that is precisely what Harris declares to be the case. The referee, however allowed the point, and Bradshaw taking the penalty kick , equalised.

The second half was rather more even than the first, the Rovers enjoying quite as much of the play as their opponents. Their methods however, were not nearly so finished, and though many of their forward rushes were extremely dangerous. Macconnachie and Stevenson were equal to all the calls made upon them. The Rovers star, however, was evidently in the ascendant. There were less than two minutes to go –and a draw seemed certain –when the home front rank broke through, and Macconnachie, misjudging his clearance, put the ball to Chapman, who scored. Before the visitors had time to retaliate the game was over.

THE PLAYERS.
Some indication has been given of the excellent account, which the Evertonians gave of themselves. The forwards were always in the picture, and with a little more dash in front of goal they should prove powerful and successful assailants. The halves fully lived up their reputation, and the way in which Fleetwood “bottled up” Chapman was something in the way of an eye-opener. Apart from one mistake, Macconnachie was brilliant, and both Stevenson and Scott did their share. The Rovers are a good side, though perhaps not quite so formidable as most people are disposed to think. Their forward work in this match lacked cohesion, and the full backs were at times painfully “rocky.”
Teams : - Blackburn Rovers: - Robinson, goal, Crompton and Cowell, backs, Walmsley, Smith, and W. Bradshaw, half-backs Simpson, Latheron, Chapman, Aitkenhead, and Anthony, forwards. Everton: - Scott goal, Stevenson, and Macconnachie (Captain), backs, Harris, Fleetwood, and Makepeace, half-backs, Beare, Jefferis, Gourlay, F. Bradshaw, and Davidson, forwards. Referee J. W. Smith.

EVERTON GOSSIP
Athletic News - Monday 11 December 1911
Everton are turning their attention to local talent for their Reserve team and against Blackburn Rovers Reserves tried two recruits.  Robinson, who formerly played for Dominion – the club that produced Keary, now with Manchester City-played at inside left, and gave a promising exhibition, sufficient to warrant further trials.  At full back, Plumb, who was secured during the week from Egremont-a West Cheshire League club-operated on the right wing.  He formerly assisted Hoylake, and it is stated that Wrexham were keen on obtaining his signature.  Against the Rovers he started well, but a couple of blunders made before the interval seemed to upset him, and he was not so effective afterwards. 
Everton are giving a benefit to their veteran player – John D. Taylor-and have allotted him the proceeds of the Christmas Day fixture at Goodison Park when their Reserve team will oppose Stockport County in a Central league match.  Taylor has been guaranteed a sum of 250.  He rarely plays now, but is retained by the club to search for likely footballers in junior circles.  This will be Taylor’s third benefit. 

ROOSE LEAVES THE VILLA
Athletic News - Monday 11 December 1911
Leigh Richmond Roose has severed his connection with Aston Villa, and in future be associated with Fulham.  The Mayor of Fulham, Mr. H.G. Norris, we are told is a persona; friend of the famous amateur and has been mainly instrumental in securing Roose’s services for the Craven Cottage club.  Roose will find it more convincible club.  For years he has been travelling more miles, in search of the ball than any other play, amateur or professional, and he will find a reduced mileage anything but a source of discomfort.  Roose was not a success in the Villa jersey, but it would not be surprising if he should recover all his old brilliancy while wearing the colours of the Metropolitan club.

• Harry Woodhouse a fine forward who did splendid work for Sheffield Wednesday in the late eighties and early nineties, died last week, Born at Ecclesfield, a village near Sheffield.  He was 43 years old. 

EVERTON UNFORTUNATE.
Athletic News - Monday 11 December 1911
Blackburn Rovers 2, Everton 1
By Quiz
Blackburn Rovers succeeded in defeating Everton at Ewood Park, but for once in a way they were more than a little lucky in gaining the verdict, for even the keenest partisan must admit that on the play of the afternoon Everton did not deserve to lose. In fact it would not be unjust to say that the honours went to the team which displayed the poorer form both collectively and individually. Everton in all probability would have managed to extract one point from the fixture but for an unfortunate kick in the last minute which gave Chapman an easy opening, and which was accepted with commendable promptness. Both sides, it may be said, were at full strength, and from the first minute to the last they played with a determination which was reminiscent of an important cup-tie.
FRANK BRADSHAW'S GOAL.
Everton soon got into full swing and by much superior methods their attack began to harass the Rovers defence, but eighteen minutes had gone by before Davidson, tricking Crompton, very neatly crossed the ball with such accuracy that Bradshaw was enabled to fire it into the top corner of the goal well out of Robinson’s reach. This seemed to give additional zest to the play, which continued in Everton’s favour, for the Rovers' vanguard could not settle down to attacking with method. Simpson occasionally crossed the ball for Chapman to make one of his characteristic dashes between the backs, but Fleetwood was generally too much for him. Davidson and Bradshaw were showing a pretty understanding which several times enabled them to round Crompton, and Jefferis was, giving Beare opportunities of harassing Cowell which he was in no way loth to accept. Anthony sent on his way by Aikenhead might have proved a very thorn in the flesh of Stevenson only the latter's judgment enabled him to anticipate the Rovers’ rushes, and it looked if Everton would still be leading at half-time. But five minutes before then a corner-kick taken by Simpson led to a quick tussle near the goal, and Harris being deemed guilty of handling, a penalty kick was awarded. Harris stoutly maintained that the ball struck him on the side of the chest, but the referee thought otherwise, and Bradshaw made the scores level. The play of the second half was just as exciting as that which had gone before, but it was not so good in quality. There were vigorous onslaughts by both teams, and easy chances were missed. With less than two minutes to go the Rovers attacked, and Walmsley sent in the ball low down straight to Stevenson, who put forward his foot to clear. The ball curled straight to Chapman, who was standing quite unguarded in front of goal, and he drove the ball between the posts at a speed which did not permit of Scott moving a finger to stop it.
THE ROVERS’ FORM.
The Rovers’ display was one the poorest they have given this season. No fault could be found with Robinson, and on the whole Crompton and Cowell, who had an immense amount of work to do owing to the shortcomings of the men in front of them, put up a stout defence, though both have often appeared to greater advantage. The half-back line was very moderate. Bradshaw saw many of his passes go to his opponents, and neither Smith nor Walmsley could do any better. The forwards were never a convincing line. Chapman is not ideal centre, and was not fast enough against such a worker as Fleetwood. Simpson had a very quiet afternoon, but was the most dangerous man of the five. A player of Simpson's ability should take a larger share in the game than he does, but if his colleagues won’t give him the ball he cannot be blamed. Scott had not a great deal to do in the Everton goal, but he acquitted himself with credit, and both Macoonnachie and Stevenson played a fine defensive game.  The one man who stood above all others was Fleetwood. For hard persistent work, for clever tackling and passing with rare sound judgment, he had not an equal on the field. He seemed to divine the moves of his opponents, and he had the necessary dash and cleverness to bring them to naught. Makepeace and Harris rendered him excellent assistance. Davidson and Bradshaw were the smarter wing in the first half, though Jefferis and Beare were often troublesome to Cowell. Gourlay was a regular glutton for work in the centre. He was always a source of anxiety to the home backs when he commenced one of his spirited dashes for goal, and he distributed the ball with equal impartiality to his wings.  Blackburn Rovers; Robinson; Crompton, Cowell; Walmsley, Smith, Bradshaw; Simpson, Latheron, Cameron, Aitkenhead, and Anthony.  Everton; Scott; Stevenson, Macconnachie; Harris, Fleetwood, Makepeace; Beare, Jefferis, Gourlay, Bradshaw, and Davidson.  Referee; Mr. J.W. Marsh, Bury. 

EVERTON RESERVES 1 BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 0
December 11 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 11)
Everton have rearly-given a better performance than on Saturday, when they defeated a strong side of Blackburn Rovers by the only goal of the game. At the same time, having regard to the evenness of the play, the Rovers were somewhat unlucky to lose both points. Then, again, there was an element of doubt about the goal by which the Blues claimed the full honours. Gracie cleverly headed in a centre from Chedgzoy, and the ball struck underneath the crossbar and rebounded to the ground, and was then cleared. The Rovers strenuously claimed that the ball did not cross the goalline, but the referee, who was supported by one of the linesmen, decided against them. It was a doubtful point, and a drawn game would have been a more fitting conclusion to the contest. Both sides spared themselves nothing, and the game was always brimful of interest, and often exciting. The Everton forwards were a live force, and Gracie's improved display was a matter for congratulations. Robinson a local youth, made his debut with the Everton colours, and acquitted himself well. His passes to Gault were neat and accurate, while his attempts at goal were always true. Occasionally he appeared slow in deciding what to do with the ball, with experience he should developed into a useful and capable player. Allan was a terror to the opposing forwards, and Meunier's well-timed clearances were of immense value to his side . Everton: - Berry goal, Plump and Meunier, backs, Allan, Weller and W. Davies, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Lacey, Gracie, Robinson, and Gault, forwards.

TOM McDERMOTT JOINS WIRRAL CLUB
December 15, 1911. Dundee Courier
Wirrall Railway Association Football Club have secured the transfer from St. Helens Recs, of “Tommy” McDermott, late of Everton, Dundee and he has been selected to play versus New Brighton Tower Amateurs at docks tomorrow.

TOM McDERMOTT JOINS WIRRAL CLUB.
Dundee Courier-Friday 15 December 1911
Wirral railway Associate Football Club have secured the transfer of St. Helens Recs.Tommy McDermott, late of Everton and Dundee, and he has been selected: play versus New Brighton Tower Amateurs at Docks to-morrow.

DUNDEE HIBS SIGN
Dundee Courier - Friday 15 December 1911
HANNAN, OF BRECHIN, FOR MATCH WITH AYR.
Hibs' team to meet the Second League leaders Tannadice to-morrow is not yet finally decided upon Last night Mr P. Reilly was successful in securing the signature of Jack Hannan, of Brechin, who plays at right back. Hannan has seen service with Celtic and Everton, with which teams he built up fine reputation. With his assistance Hibs should get along in fine style.

EVERTON 1 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 0
December 16, 1911. The Liverpool Football Echo
Sheffield Wednesday visited Everton this afternoon, and the meeting of the old and new club was certainty a tit-bit. Everton had no changes, but Wednesday called in O'Connell for Weir.
Teams : - Everton: - Scott goal, Stevenson, and Macconnachie (Captain), backs, Harris Fleetwood, and Makepeace, half-backs, Beare, Jefferis, Gourlay, Bradshaw, and Davidson, forwards. Sheffield Wednesday: - Davison, goal, Worrall, and Spoors backs, Brittleton, O'Connell, and Campbell, half-backs, Kirkman, Glennon, McLean, Wilson, and Robertson, forwards. Referee Mr. G. A. Sharpe.
The weather at Goodison Park this afternoon was very dreary, and, together with the early start had a more marked effect on the attendance. The turf looked sloppy, and promised to become troublesome as soon as the players had churned it up a bit. The goal area had been protected by tarpaulins, but needed a plentiful supply of sawdust. The Sheffielder's turned out first and looked very smart in their clean jerseys. Prior to the start, a nasty wind was noticeable which promised to make things difficult for the players. McLean opened up the game, and Glennon put out to his left, Harris intervening. At the second attempt Davidson slipped past Brittleton but Worrell proved too quick for Bradshaw. The home left were left were not dismissed and at length Davidson put in a lovely centre, but unfortunately Beare failed to trap. The Everton attack was maintained, Gourlay hitting the crossbar with a rousing shot. Two corners followed in quick succession, and from the second Fleetwood nearly had Davison beaten. Gourlay was then temporarily disabled. Thus far the Blues had it all their own way, and they played havoc with the Wednesday defenders. After a prolonged stay to Sheffield territory Davidson flashed across another centre, Beare this time making a bold effort to propel the sodden sphere into the net, but the ball went wide of the mark. Twice over Davidson failed to make allowance for the fitful breeze, and consequently two of his centres went behind. A last a strong forward pass from McLean enabled the Wednesday left to and past all opposition. A goal might easily have accured to the visitors, had they steadied themselves instead of which Makepeace was allowed to slip in and clear at the expense of a corner. Another corner was gained to the right of Scott, and from this Kirkman headed so artfully that Scott only picked the ball up in the nick of time. The Sheffielders had now found their feet, and were having their fair share of the game. The Blues were several times thwarted in their efforts to obtain a footing in Wednesday's quarter. Several players' aid by this time sat down in the mire and the results was obviously uncomfortable. Despite the heavy going and the breeze this general work was full of interest and the passing fairly accurate. Dashing work by Fleetwood led up to a corner, which was successfully negotiated. Macconnachie darted up to the centre and intent on challenging, but his feet went from under him, and he slid along on that portion of his anatomy, which it is impolite to mentions. Robertson and Kirkman dashing ahead, closed in on Stevenson, who got left. Here, however, the Sheffielders blundered and allowed Scott to come out and clear. This had the Everton citadel had two narrow squeaks. In the Everton attack which followed Bradshaw shot brilliantly and Gourlay dashed up a moment too late to profit by a glorious opportunity. Wednesday initiated by fairly swamping the Blues when Makepeace inadvertently kicking on to Stevenson gave away a corner, which proved very difficult to negotiate. Everton promptly responded so fiercely that the Sheffield defenders were all beaten –bar the custodian. Davison emerged from the fair, and somehow managed to get the better of the argument with Bradshaw and Gourlay. It was a very near thing indeed, This for a goal Bradshaw's footwork was most delightful, and the new man showed himself to be able to manipulate the ball anyway. Wednesday continued to improve and much of their work was marked by excellent methods. At the end of thirty-five minutes Davidson led in attack when was to proved fatal to Wednesday. Play settled down within the penalty area, when there was a short sharp fight for possession with half a dozen players well mixed up. Ultimately Gourlay passed out to Jefferis, and he swinging round, netted the ball cleverly with a superb hook shot. The Blades roused themselves to get no equal terms, and did splendidly in the open field, but Stevenson and Macconnachie covered each other so splendidly that Scott was seldom in real jeopardy when the ball did come whizzling his way the custodian picked up very confidently. Hereabouts Fleetwood was winded. The heavy going that suited him admirably, and enabled him to tackle, and harass the visitors very effectually. The Blues continued to maintain that advantage, and two very powerful shots from Jefferis nearly decided the issue of the game. On the second occasion the custodian was considerably shook up. A minute before the onterval Scott had a marvellous escape. Kirkman led an attack, which enabled McLean to receive right in the goalmouth. How Fleetwood managed to block the Sheffielder's shot is a mystery; but he saved a certain goal. “Andy” Wilson was equally unfortunate a few seconds later. Half-time score Everton 1, Sheffield Wednesday nil. When the play returned Harris Jefferis, and Beare were soon in the thick of it without, however, making much headway. Then the Sheffield left made a sudden spurt, and Harris gave away a corner to Robertson though he appealed for a thrown-in. The Blades grimly to their gum and for some minutes the Blues were strictly on the defensive. When they emerged from the pressure Beare made a fine sprints and ended up forcing a corner out to Spoors. The Sheffield warden also conceded another. Since the restart, Jefferis had been very prominent, and some of his work was wonderfully forceful. The Blades were full of energy, and time after time hurled themselves fiercely against the Everton defence to the admiration of the 10,000 spectators. The game continued to be stubbornly continued on both sides, but the marksmanship was nothing to brag about. Davidson worked a corner out of the Sheffield wardens and followed this up with a sharp centre, which brought Spoors to the rescue. By this time the heavy going began to tell a tale, and there was sight of flagging on both sides. Fleetwood and O'Connell, however, lasted well, and their affords made the game fairly even. Gourlay and his left wing were travelling smartly goalwards, when Brittleson swung the ball round, and Bradshaw, receiving it in his broadbecket was promptly knocked out of time. A free kick taken by Davidson led up to a corner, and from this Gourlay got in a grand long shot, which forced another corner from the Sheffield custodian. Yet another corner followed, and this time Fleetwood, heading beautifully from Davidson's service. One of the best shots on the Sheffield side came from Mclean, who sent in a regular headside of Scott. On a whole, however, the Blues were having the best of matters and for some minutes, Davison had a busy time. Unfortunately the Blues although they overplayed their visitors shooting badly and there was always a possibility of the Blades making a march on them. A free kick to Sheffield resulted in Spoors netting the leather. The kick was taken in the area, and Mr. Shape however disallowing the goal, because the players had encroached beyond their legal distance. The kick was actually taken four times over before the Blues removed from danger. This must be mentioned a remarkable incident and very hard lines for the Sheffielders. Everton 1 Wednesday nil.

GLOSSOP 2 EVERTON RESERVES 3
December 16 1911. The Liverpool Football Echo.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 12)
At Gossop. Everton attacked and in the first minute a grand shot from Lacey went unconverted by his colleagues. Splittle drove back the visitors, and Herbett was prominent with a couple of lucky runs on the Glossop right. The Everton defence, however, was sound. Stapley charged down a fierce drive from Chedgzoy, and this was followed by a lot of midfield play. After fifthteen minutes' Robinson scored for Everton. half-time Everton reserves 3, Glossop nil.. Gracie scored the second and Pinkney the third. Full Tine Everton 3 Glossop 2. Everton: - Berry goal, Meunier and Plumb, backs, Allan, Weller and Grenyer, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Pinkney, Gracie, Robinson, and Lacey forwards.

WHY L.R. ROOSE JOINED WOOLWICH
Athletic News - Monday 18 December 1911
The persuasive eloquence of Councillor H.G. Norris, J.P., Mayor of Fulham, was primarily responsible for the acquiescence of L.R. Roose to play for Woolwich Arsenal.  At one time it was thought that the famous Welshman was going to join Fulham, and we have reason to believe that the Aston Villa club thought so to.  This belief was responsible for the circulation of the news from Birmingham last week-end that Roose had joined Fulham.  Mr. Philip Kelso was very anxious to get Roose for the Craven Cottage club, but the Welshman’s preference for First Division football, coupled with the eloquence of Councillor Norris, ended in his signing for Woolwich Arsenal.  It is safe to say that Mr. Kelso was greatly disappointed at Roose’s decision. 

THE VALUE OF A GOAL
Athletic News - Monday 18 December 1911
Everton 1, Sheffield Wednesday 0
By Junius
The Everton team seems to be making a specialty in the matter of winning their League matches at Goodison Park by scoring the only goal of the game.  On September 30 they registered a couple of goals in their fixture with Newcastle United, but never since have they been guilty of such an indiscretion on their own enclosure.  Apart from the exception of the match at Bolton on October 21, when Everton won 2-1, their forwards have taken part in ten League engagements, and have never scored twice in any match.  As a matter of fact, the last four games decided at Goodison Park ended in precisely the same fashion, namely, a one clear goal victory for Everton.  So far as the acquisition of points in the League competition is concerned, this result may seem quite gratifying, for Everton have not been beaten at home this season, but one would like to see the forwards rather more prolific.  There could on Saturday be no mistaking the superiority of Everton in the first half; their forwards indulged in some delightfully executed movements, and though several shots were levelled at Davison, the latter had not a tithe of the work to deal with that ought to have been his lot.  I have not seen Jefferis play a finer game since he came to Liverpool.  His passing was as nearly perfect as possible.  On the heavy going he fairly reveled in his work, and the outside winger who cannot play with Jefferis must be frail indeed.  In addition, he was the one forward who realized the necessity for shooting hard and true when within range, and it was fitting that the only goal of the match should come from the finest attacker on the field. 
Wing Forwards Finish Badly
Gourlay showed better form than in any of his previous trials, but Beare finished much creditable footwork feebly, and so did Davidson.  Bradshaw was very clever, and the Everton forwards generally must be complimented upon the character of their football.  There was intelligence and motive evident in their advances, and the one thing lacking was that they did not shoot oftener when the favourable opportunity arose.  Nor could there be found any fault with the exhibition of the man in the rear division.  Everton, in fact, were the superior side all round, and merited a much wider margin of goals.  Harris was the best of the half-backs, but Fleetwood and Makepeace performed so skillfully that it was by the merest shade that the Irishman gained precedence.  Further behind Macconnachie gave an admirable display, and in conjunction with Makepeace, demonstrated the wide possibilities of co-operation in defence.  Stevenson in a more robust fashion, rendered useful service, and Scott was easily equal to all demands upon his skill. I was greatly disappointed with the work of the Wednesday forwards, who never settled down into a concerted mode of action throughout the game. They fared more effectively in the second half than before the interval, but even then they were always held under complete control by the Everton defenders. McLean was seldom seen and Robertson on the extreme left was rarely in evidence. Nor did Glennon show; to advantage, and the honours in attack were borne off by the veteran Wilson, who provided his partner with openings which were almost always ruthlessly rejected. Kirkman accomplished some smart work, but he often finished feebly.
STALWART DEFENDERS.
No one did better than Brittlelon in the half-back division, but little fault could be found with any of the players in the rear ranks. The full backs were sturdy and reliable, and Davison kept a capital goal; the fact that only one point was debited against him is proof sufficient of his work, for Everton, despite their faulty finishing touches, were far more dangerous than their opponents.   I trust, however. That in the near future the Everton forwards will oblige by scoring more than one goal in a match. It is suggestive of exceedingly capable estimation on their part to be able to bring matters to such a fine issue. Under such circumstances the player who distinguishes himself by scoring this invaluable point tor them merits some special mention. Hence I may state that after thirty-five minutes play, Davidson received from Makepeace, and sent inwards to Jefferis, who eluded the defence in most able fashion, and gained the only goal of the match.  It was the result of a clever sequence of exchanges, and the final drive was equally meritorious.  Everton; Scott; Stevenson, Macconnachie; Harris, Fleetwood, Makepeace; Beare, Jefferis, Gourlay, Bradshaw, and Davidson.  Sheffield Wednesday; Davison; Worrall, Spoors; Brittleton; O’Connell, Campbell; Kirkman, Glennon, Mclean, Wilson, and Robertson.  Referee; Mr. I.G.A. Sharpe, Lichfield. 

DEATH MR. WM. McGREGOR.
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Thursday 21 December 1911
Mr. Wm. McGregor, known throughout the football world the "Father of the League," died his residence in Handsworth, Birmingham, yesterday morning. A short time ago had serious illness, which necessitated an operation. He appeared to have recovered, but his enthusiasm for the game led him to take risks which his friends did not consider prudent. He caught cold on recent football journey, and complications setting in, another operation was found necessary on Tuesday last. This was successfully performed, but yesterday morning he had a relapse, which proved fatal. Probably no man "has had such influence upon Association football as Mr. McGregor; certainly no one spoke with greater authority, or commanded more general respect. When the game, in 1885, was passing through the crisis caused by the spread of professionalism, Mr. McGregor had the boldness openly to advocate the recognition of the paid player. He did so at special general meeting of the Football Association, and speaking, as he did, as the mouthpiece of the Aston Villa Club, his advocacy of the legalisation of professionalism practically gave the death-blow to the veiled practices which that time were rampant among clubs the Midlands and in Lancashire. Having taken up the cause of the paid player, Mr. McGregor was quick to see that something beyond the attractions ordinary club football was necessary to make professionalism financial success, and it was through his efforts that 1888 the league was formed, the clubs first included in the combination being Preston North End, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Aston Villa, Bolton Wanderers West Albion, Everton, Derby County, Notts County, Burnley, Stoke, Accrington, and Blackburn Rovers. The League system quickly engrafted itself upon the game, and to-dav the number organisations formed its principles is legion. The part Mr. McGregor played establishing this form of competitive sport led to the title Father of the League ' being general consent conferred upon him, and by that name he has for years been known, practically wherever Association football is played. But though an of professionalism, Mr. McGregor constantly exercised a moderating influence upon it, and his advocacy was always accompanied bv a strong feeling of lovalty to the Football Association, whose councils he Held very high place, much esteemed was he by the members the F. A. Council that so recently few weeks ago was presented them with a gold medal commemorative of his 20 years' service to the parent body. was life member of the League, of which he was the first president, and his 35 years' association with the Aston Villa Club he held practically every, office connected with that famous organisation. Though staunch in his support of the professional side tho game, Mr. McGregor's efforts were means confined to that phase of the sport. He did great, deal towards developing the pastime among the vouths of the Birmingham district, and he used to Droud of the fact that he had taken part the establishment of the Birmingham Youths and Old Boys' Association, in whose ranks there were, least, a short time ago. over 6.000 registered amateur players Mr. McGregor was born in Perthshire and had been settled Birmingham since was 18 or 19 years age. His Scottish associations led his services being sought by the Scottish Football Association, on whose behalf he for several years past selected the Anglo-Scots teams for the international trial matches. He was never great exponent of the dribbling game, though in his young days be was known occasionally keep goal for Aston Villa practice matches. It is as legislator, organiser, and friendly adviser that he will remembered with recpoct throughout the world Association Football.

ANOTHER RECRUIT FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 25 December 1911
Everton are continuing their trials to recruits in their reserve team, and, following on the acquisition of Plumb and Robinson, the local players from the West Cheshire league, they included a new outside left in their team against Bury reserves on Saturday.  This youth, named Furr, created a good impression, and it is intended to play him today against Stockport County, and tomorrow at Southport against the Central.  After their match at Bury on Saturday, the Everton team left for Darlington, where they spent the week-end, in order to be in readiness for their match at Middleborough today.  Later in the afternoon the two teams will travel together to Liverpool for the return League match at Goodison Park tomorrow. 

• John A. Parkinson, ex-Blackpool centre half-back, has met his death like a hero.  He was a typical seasider and a life boatman, and some months ago was appointed superintendent of the Corporation Baths.  He sacrificed his life last week in rescuing an assistant from a tank of boiling sea water.  The assistance was saved but Parkinson died from the scalds.  As a player he was a great favourite with the followers of the Blackpool club by reason of his wholeheartedness. 

BURY RELAPSE
 Athletic News - Monday 25 December 1911
Bury 1, Everton 2
By The Shaker
BURY’S poor form, in conjunction with the fog fiend, had great effect on the gate at Gigg-lane, only about 7,000 being present. And this, too, notwithstanding the interest which had been aroused by the introduction of Bury’s latest acquisition, Walter Smith, of Chester, to the inside right position. The game itself was a peculiar one, for Everton up to the interval seemed somewhat unstrung, with the notable exception of Beare, who played a superb game outside right and established himself as the “star” performer of the afternoon. On the other hand, Bury swung the ball about to some purpose. Their passing and combination were far and away superior to anything they had shown before their own supporters in any other match this season. But it did not last, and though Everton were always in front after the interval they were decidedly lucky to run out victors in the end.
SMITH'S PROMISING DEBUT.
Walter Smith, the new man, started well. The game was only a minute old when he gave an excellent example of his powers of marksmanship, the ball being driven from an awkward position, only inches above the cross-bar. He showed many neat little pieces of footwork, and exhibited coolness, and precision, playing well to his partner, but often failing to render a helping hand to Lomas at centre when the latter was hard pressed. And Kay was tarred with the same brush; else more than one fierce attack might have been crowned with success. But after this first flight of fancy, the Everton defenders took care that Smith never got another real chance of shooting all through the game. There can be no doubt, however, that Smith gives promise for adding strength to the forward line. The "Shakers’” weakness was decidedly at half-back. Owing Bullen’s sister having passed away, and the funeral being on Saturday, he was given leave of absence, and his place was inadequately filled by Currie, who has not played in the position for a long time. He had neither the skill nor the speed to deal with the clever Beare, who was always his master, and the wonder was that the Bury defence did not appreciate the fact and learn their lesson. Beare time and again got round Currie, and then beat Millington. Running close up to the goal line he placed all his colleagues onside, and his centres were invariably models of precision and excellence. Indeed, the other inside forwards must take blame to themselves for the fact that it was not until a minute before the interval that one of Beare’s centres was turned to account.  A similar effort, minus the Intervention of Millington, won the second goal, and Bury were beaten once more.  Bury had fallen away badly in the second half.  Their work in the first stage had aroused hopes of a favourable result, but Jarvis, who had performed admirably before the change of ends, lost his speed and cleverness and like Currie, was weak, only Humphreys of the line rising to First Division standard.  The result was that the forwards were badly served and the defence crowded with difficulties, for the Evertonians gathered strength, acumen, and cleverness with the passage of time, and their defence being keen and clever, the home men scarcely had a chance of retrieving themselves, despite the gallant efforts of Lomas.  
The Goals
The first goal came at the end of twenty minutes' play, and it was one of the prettiest which has been scored by a Bury man for long time. Birnie received from Humphreys, and passed to Smith, whose pretty touch was gathered by Lomas, and switched on to Kay, who side stepped past Scott, and gave the keeper no chance. Then Gourlay was injured five minutes from the interval and retired. During his absence Beare raced to the goal line, and swept the ball across for Bradshaw to score, the interval coming a minute later. Twenty-four minutes had passed in the second stage when Beare outpaced Currie and centred for Bradshaw to head against the cross-bar. The ball rebounded to the left, where Jefferis secured and, despite the interference of two opponents, he got in a shot which found the net just inside the far corner post, McDonald being unprepared and hopelessly beaten. In the later stages Lomas was brought down just inside the penalty by Maconnachie, and strong claim was made for penalty kick, but the referee ignored it, a fact which the crowd very much resented.
BRILLIANT DISPLAY.
Although Bury’s front rank all played well up to the interval, they were seldom in the picture afterwards, except. Lomas, who lacked support, and not one of them again excepting Lomas, was entitled to any commendation. They might have been a totally different set of forwards from the opening period, the difference in their play being so very marked. The same remarks apply to the half-backs, Humphreys being the exception in this case. The backs played a good game, all things considered, and McDonald was a very proficient custodian. The Everton forwards were clever in the open, but by no means strong in front of goal. Beare was the star artiste of the afternoon, his work being of the model type. The visitors were much better served at half-back, all three middlemen being good, without anyone standing out prominently. In Stevenson and Macconnachie, Everton had a fine, resourceful pair of backs, and Scott kept a good goal. Everton were, however, lucky to take both points. Bury. — McDonald: Greaves, Millington; Humphreys, Jarvis, Currie: Birnie, Smith, Lomas, Kay, and Duffy. Everton.—Scott: Stevenson, Maconnachie: Harris, Fleetwood, Makepeace: Jefferis, Gourlay, Bradshaw, and Davidson. Referee: W. Chadwick, Blackburn.

BURY 1 EVERTON 2
December 25 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
EVERTON BAFFLE BURY.
Poor Bury are in a pitiable plight, and although it is never wise to prophesy unless you know, they seem destined for the Second Division. At Gigg-Lane on Saturday, they presented a very bold front to Everton in the first period of the game, and at the interval there was really very little in it between the teams. In the second half, however, the Evertonians quite outplayed their opponents and were always the superior side. In spite of the damp and the fog the game was an extremely interesting one to watch, some of the passing in midfield reflecting the greatest credit upon both sets of players. Against this, however, we had the same exhibition of wild and erratic shooting, and the old old story of lost opportunities. All things considered, the Everton men did themselves full justice, and though one cannot but sympathise to a certain extent with Bury, it is the common lot in football as in other avocations –that the weakest must go to the wall. Everton, it is quite clear, have now settled down to clever and combined football, and a continuance of their present form should ensure a prominent position on the League when the season close.

HOW THE PLAY WENT.
Play was rather scrappy for a short period, but one of the most conspicuous figures in a series of spasmodic attacks was the local player Smith, who put in a brilliant shot from a corner that just shaved the bar. A great centre from Beare was very dangerous for Bury, and McDonald was upset for a few moments. This was Everton's only incursion during ten minutes' play, though it cannot be said that the Blues were in jeopardy, for their defence was generally equal to the demands of some rather haphazard work by the Bury forwards. Bradshaw brought off one of his brilliant dribbles, but was poorly supported. Bury displayed any amount of dash. Macconnachie twice miskicked near goal but recovered him. Self; while Bradshaw just over ran the ball in a fine dash for goal. Gourlay had real bad luck, however, with a first time shot from a fine centre of Beare's. Straightaway the Bury forwards were at their best in a finished passing movement that started on the right, and culminated in a fine shot by Kay which gave Bury the lead after twenty minutes. Offside tactics by Greaves bothered the Everton left wing, but when the Bury full back miskicked, Bradshaw with a great chance shot wildly over the bar. Everton were obviously determined to make up the leeway, and the Bury goal had several narrow escapes. It was mainly the home halves that kept Everton out, the visitors having quite as much of the first half play as their opponents. Gourlay was badly shaken just before the interval and had to retire.

THE EQUALISER.
This stimulated rather than upset Everton. Beare made a grand run and centre, the goalkeeper just touching the ball, which passed on to Davidson for him to score easily. Everton were always value for this point. Gourlay came back after a breather, and missed badly with only the goalkeeper to beat. Bury played a rushing game, and Lomas sent just over the bar. Duffy and Birnie finished poorly, whereas Beare was always swinging across dangerous centres from one of which Davidson had a shot unluckily charged down. Everton stayed better than Bury, and moreover, their footwork was superior. Still the home team's desperate rushes often had a spice of danger about them, and Stevenson and Macconnachie could afford to give nothing away. Everton goal came twenty-five minutes after the interval, and Beare again played a prominent role. He finished a great run with a perfect centre, which Bradshaw drove against the bar. The ball was not got away, and Jefferis, though impeded, got a great shot into the corner of the net. After this goal Everton played a quiety-confident game, and ran out very comfortable winners. Teams: - Bury: - McDonald, goal, Greaves, and Millington, backs, Humphreys, Jarvis, and Currie, half-backs, Birnie, Smith, Lomas, Kay, and Duffy, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, Stevenson, and Macconnachie (Captain), backs Harris, Fleetwood, and Makepeace, half-backs Beare, Jefferis, Gourlay, Bradshaw, and Davidson, forwards, Referee W. Chadwick.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 BURY RESERVES 0
December 25 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 13)
Everton's clear goal victory over Bury was a fitting conclusion to a capital game in which the issue was keenly disputed and the play fairly evenly distributed. Everton scored their goal through Gracie, who from a long return passed the opposing defence and neatly turned the ball past the Bury custodian into the net. Then both sides put in excellent work, but poor finishing tactics robbed the preliminary efforts of their value. Bromilow made two or three mistakes, which however, did not prove costly. Meunier was prominent with several fine returns, and Weller was always a live force both in attack and defence. Gracie improves weekly, and is fast regaining his best form. Robinson gave another promising display, one of his scoring efforts in the first half being a clever piece of work, and caused the Bury custodian to exercise, his best skill to avoid defeat. Furr was another promising debutante his keenness and general knowledge of the game being generally admired.

MIDDLESBROUGH 0 EVERTON 0
December 26, 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
EVERTON'S HOLIDAY TOUR.
BLUES SECURE A POINT.
GREAT GAME AT MIDDLESBROUGH.
As was the case last year, the Everton footballers have an arduous Christmas programme, combined with considerable travelling. After their fine win at Bury, the party, in charge of Secretary Cuff, entrained for Darlington, where Christmas was quietly, but happily spent. A special train took us on to Middlesbrough yesterday afternoon. Unfortunately Gourlay and Davidson were suffering from injuries, and Lacey, and Gracie, who had been wired for, took the places in the team. These were the only changes. Middlesbrough had a strong side out, and there was a large holiday crowd. The weather was perfect, but the ground heavy on account of a thaw following frost overnight. With the sun behind them, Everton had an advantage, which they made good use of in the early stages, though the defence started shakily, and twice let in Stirling, a fine outside right, who has a nice command of the ball and centres accuately. There were many thrilling incidents in a grandly fought game, both goals having narrow escapes. James was in the act of shooting point blank when Macconnachie cleared brilliantly, and at the other end Everton had a corner. The greatest menace to the Blues was the Middlesbrough right wing, Sterling and Elliott. The visiting forwards did not open out the game in the first half, bring inclined to hold the ball too long. The home forwards kept out half backs on the full stretch. Still Everton were always displaying as much cleverness and generalship as their rivals. It was a tremendous fast game for within less time than it takes to tell Williamson saved brilliantly from Beare, and Scott from Windridge and Eyre. Gracie's return to the first team brought good results. He kept well outside and let in Jefferis to fire a smart shot at Williamson. Again Gracie ran through brilliantly, and was in the act or shooting when he was brought down in the area the referee allowed the game to proceed, and Beare dashed up with a tremendous drive. This Williamson saved wonderfully. Indeed he saved his side repeatedly. After the first half Middlesbrough enjoyed their best spell of continued attack, a series of corners cleared with difficulty. The Middlesbrough forwards were often lucky in having bad passes cannon to the right quarter. During a goalless first half there was really little to choose between the two fine teams. At the same time, but for the brilliance of Williamson, Everton would have had a lead. Both defences were sound. The Borough came with a tremendous rush after the interval. Scott was not tested, but he was not secure. James had a golden opportunity when he placed over the bar. He was well attended by Fleetwood who was always in the think of it, and was once laid out in consequences. Stirling and Macconnachie had a tussle in which Borough man was injured. Everton were again slow in getting down, Albeit as a matter of fact play had slowed down considerably. Everton at length got on the right when, by way of Makepeace, the ball moved across to Lacey, who brought Williamson out. Gracie led another attack, which Lacey improved for a corner that gave Williamson anxiety. The Borough were away again directly, Elliott sending right across the goal, with no one up to touch it through. About this time we did not see a great deal of Everton inside forwards. In the closing stages Everton had a couple of good chances. Beare, was not up to his game but Lacey dashing up for one of his centres, missed by the barest margins, while from the corner Beare lost an opening through, needless hesitation. Everton were incessantly attacking in the last few minutes and were full value for their point. Result Middlesbrough nil, Everton nil. Teams: - Middlesbrough: - Williamson goal, Layton, and Weir, backs, Barker, Jackson, and Verrill, half-backs, Stirling, Elliott James Windridge, and Eyre, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, Stevenson, and Macconnachie (Captain), backs, Harris, Fleetwood, and Makepeace. half-backs, Beare, Jefferis Gracis, Bradshaw, and Lacey forwards. Referee Mr. A. Adams.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 1
December 26 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 14)
JACK TAYLOR'S BENEFIT.
Taylor's long and honourable association with the Everton Club received tangible reward for the third time since the popular player threw in his lot with the Everton Club. During his fifteen years' service Taylor has done excellent work for the Blues and to be the recipient of three benefits is something in the nature of a record. About 3,000 spectators witnessed the contest at Goodison Park, but as the beneficiary was guaranteed £250 the attendance did not affect the financial side of the matter. Everton were easily masters in the first half, and did most of the attacking. Chedgzoy stayed as he has rarely done before, and it was from one of his centres after the game had been in progress forty minutes that Gault headed the ball past Stockport custodian into the net. Allan was absent for some time owing to an injury to his head, but he pluckily resumed after being bandage up. Pinkney was supplied with several nice openings, which he failed to use to advantage. Poor forward work was the great weakness of the visitors, although Meunier, and Plumb contributed to this by their fine defensive play. At half-time Everton led by one goal to nil.

The second half was pretty much a repetition of the first period so far as the play was concerned. The Everton forwards led raid after raid upon the Stockport goal, and the Blues' right wing generally initiated the movements. Birds did capital work for the County in repelling some worthy efforts, while there was little sting in the attacks of the Stockport forwards. Gault increased Everton's lead with a long ground drive, which landed the ball into the corner of the net. The Stockport forwards tried to get through with a long shots, but failed. Birds saved this charge in the most miraculous manner, once falling on the ball as Gault shot it goalwards, and bringing off a really fine saved. Just before the finish Pinkney scored a third goal for Everton from close range with Birds lying on the ground. Russell scored for Stockport from a free kick taken just outside the penalty area. Everton were the better side and deserved their success. Result Everton 3, Stockport County 1. Teams : - Everton: - Bromilow, goal, Plumb, and Meunier, backs, Allan Weller (Captain), and Grenyer, half-backs Chedgzoy, Pinkney, Gault, Robinson, and Furr, forwards. Stockport County: - Birds, goal, Froehlick, and Houghton, backs, Beech Russell and Emmerson, half-backs; Trotter Graham, Davison, Barr and O'Brien forwards.

EVERTON 1 MIDDLESBROUGH 0
December 27 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
DASHING GAME ON MUDDY GROUND.
HOME TEAMS NARROW VICTORY.
The big Christmas crowd that assembled at Goodison Park yesterday were provided with a capital mudlarking game, and had the satisfaction of seeing the home club retire victorious. The teams lined out as follows : - Everton: - Scott goal, Stevenson, and Macconnachie (Captain) backs, Harris, Fleetwood, and Makepeace, half-backs, Breae, Jefferis, Gracie, Bradshaw, and Lacey, forwards. Middlesbrough: - Williamson, goal, Weir, and Layton backs, Verrill, Jackson, and Barker half-backs, James Windridge, Cail, Elliott, and Stirling, forwards. Referee A. Adams .
Cail started for Middlesbrough and shot out to the left, where Harris was penalised for roughly tackling James. Scott came out but was not rushed, and easily enabled his side to cross the line into the visitors territory. They did not make much of the advantage and soon Elliott led a raid, which nearly turned out disastrous for Makepeace was at fault for giving away a corned, from which the ball dropped to switwardly that Macconnachie could only give it a tap. Cail was right in the goal and ought to have netted easily, but he only put the leather to an opponent and Scott managed to pick up and fling the sphere over the line. Next followed an Everton venture. Harris firing heavily at Williamson. Then, at the other end Elliott once more preformed brilliantly and earned plaudits. Lacey and Bradshaw showed dashing form. but both had affords charged down. Next Macconnachie pitted himself against Stirling, and he showed the brilliant winger some rare tricks. Both teams were frequently on visiting terms, but the finish was not brilliant. When then Elliott next came down both Everton backs were sadly at fault, and Scott had another save. Lacey was bowled clean over, and was compensated with a corner. From which Fleetwood sent in a centre, Beare dropped in a lovely pass and Jefferis was finely placed when the whistle-stopped further progress. The Blues were asserting themselves steadily now, receiving from Makepeace, Jefferis sent in a beauty shot to Williamson, and worked a lovely curling shot on Williamson who steered the ball round the better of the post very dexterously. The item of interest was a hot Middlesbrough raid, however, Macconnachie and Stevenson relieved the pressure. Macconnachie concede a corner to Stirling, and found the brilliant player fully his match. Middlesbrough cleverly packed their goal when danger threatened and dozens of Everton shots were charged down or the blues would have assuredly taken the lead. By this time the ground had become very holding and difficult to operate on, so that a miss was likely to prove fatal with the ball so greasy. Gracie excelled himself with a beautiful solo effort just before the interval. Half-time Everton nil, Middlesbrough nil. The first half had proved a game full of exciting incidents; if not actually sensational. The second half opened all in favour of the defence, and it was extremely likely a single goal would decide the fortunes of the game. After restarting the most prominent player on the field was certainly Gracie, and it was obvious that they were splendidly matched. Soon afterwards Bradshaw ran to the right and shot in with tremendous force, and accuracy. At the end of half an hour Fleetwood initiated a most involved movement which developed on the left. Makepeace and Garcie took part in a wonderful passing movement, consisteting the mud, and finally Jefferis swiftly transferred to Bradshaw, who beat Williamson with a glorious shot. It was an amazing bit of combination under the heavy conditions. Result Everton 1, Middlesbrough nil.

THE PLAYERS.
No single player deserved adverse criticism, for some shirked the ordeal of mud. To Williamson perhaps, belong the chief glory, in saving off dozens of dangerous shots, and was only once beaten by a brilliant shot. Stirling was a masterpiece, and extended their patient and calculating Macconnachie to the full Cail was enterprising, but twice failed with glorious opportunities. The Middlesbrough halves are undoubtedly a grand line, but they met a line of forwards who were gave them no rested and harassed them to a standstill. Weir and Layton excelled, but did not reach the high standard of Stevenson and Macconnachie, for both Everton backs did predigies in the mud. In the home forward rank Gracie proved conclusively his future claim to be centerpiece and delighted the crowd with incisive and enterprising methods. Beare was a fighter of relentless calibre and an artist of first quality, while Lacey, Jefferis, and Bradshaw raised the standard of attack to a remarkable high level.

SOUTHPORT CENTRAL 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
December 27, 1911. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
CENTRAL LEAGUE (Game 15)
There was a good holiday crowd at Ashlane, yesterday, when Southport Central meet Everton Reserves for the first time this season. The visitors' half-back line and been disturbed owing to the absence of Allen and Grenyer, and this also changed the constitution of the front rank, where Gault and Magner were introduced. Southport were also weak in defence. Flynn being in goal. Grant won the toss for Southport, who at the outset had only ten men. Everton at once attacked and scored (Gault) after three minutes' play. The Central missing player now arrived and an attack was made on the visitors' goal; but the invaders were driven back and the home citadel was again jeopardised. Chedgzoy shot wide, and determined work by the home forwards and half backs resulted in Grant equalising. Everton gained a corner, which was unproductive and Southport again attacked. Grant shooting high from close range with only the goalkeeper to beat. Half-time Southport Central 1 goal, Everton Reserves 1. In the second half Southport proved themselves the better team. Their goal had one or two narrow escapes, but Flynn had gained confidence, and made some smart saves. About twenty-five minutes from the resumption Cooper placed them ahead from a scrimmage in the goal, and despite the fact that they had to do without the services of Smethan for the last fifteen minutes' and play with only four forwards they continued to hold their own. Result Southport Central 2, Everton Reserves 1. Everton: - Bromilow, goal, Plumb, and Meunier, backs, Allan, Weller, and Grenyer, half-backs, Gault, Chedgzoy, Pinkney, Robinson, and Furr, forwards.

T. BROWELL, HULL CITY'S CENTRE FORWARD, TRANSFERRED TO EVERTON.
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Saturday 30 December 1911
Some sensation was caused in Hull football circles last night by the news that Tom Browell, the young Hull city centre forward, had been transferred to Everton. The transfer fee is said run into four figures, and to approach a record. Browe!!, who joined Hull City at the end of the season before last, has scored 14 during the present campaign, and has performed the hat trick three occasions in Second League football. He is only 18 years of age. a native of Walbottle. a Tyneride colliery village. stands 9in.. and scales 71b the youngest the three brothers Browell who have played for Hull City

TOTTENHAM HOTSPURS 0 EVERTON 1
December 30, 1911. The Liverpool Football Echo.
EVERTON STRIVE HARD AGAINST GOOD TEAM.
GOAL UP AT INTERVAL.
GREAT PRESSURE BY BLUES.
Everton hoped to continue their excellent Christmas run to-day, when they visited Tottenham, which club they beat last season by a goal to nil. Save that Davidson returned vice Lacey, the team was the same as that which beat Middlesbrough. As usual when visiting the Metropolis the Evertonians travelled to town a day in advance. The players in charge of Mr. Roberts Wilson. Left Lime-street by the 5.25 and on arrival proceeded at once to the hotel. This morning Mr. Cuff, who had journeyed overnight from Hull, gave out the welcome tidings that Tom Browell, the famous Hull City centre-forward had been signed on. The men spent this morning in leisurely fashion, and Tottenham was reached in ample time. The weather was bright and mild, but there was a certain amount of dampness in the air, and the soft state of the ground needed a liberal use of sand. Both teams have been doing so well of late that a great day was anticipated, and the spectators rolled up in their thousands to witness the encounter. The Everton team was as selected, and though Makepeace had a sore arm, he determined like their true sportsman he is, to platy, and the men faced each other as follows : - Everton: - Scott, goal, Stevenson, and Macconnachie (Captain), backs, Harris, Fleetwood, and Makepeace, half-backs Beare, Jefferis, Gracie, Bradshaw, and Davidson, forwards. Tottenham Hotspurs: - Lunn, goal, Webster, and Brittan backs, D. Steel, Rance, Darnell, half-backs, Middlemiss, R. Steel, Minter, Newman, and McTavish, forwards. Referee J. Adams.

There were 25,000 spectators present when plat started. Macconnachie won the toss, and Tottenham started with a slight breeze in their favour. The start was sensational, for the home forwards moved away strongly on the right, and the Everton skipper being between Newman had a clear goal in front of him when he shot over the bar. Everton immediately retaliated with a breakaway on the right, and it was at once apparent that the game was to be set at the fastest possible pace. The home forwards came along again in combined order, and both visiting backs were given an anxious time. Harris, however, came to the rescue, and Beare getting possession, ploughed through the soft turf at lighting speed. He beat both Darnell and Brittan, but his final shot went straight to Lunn who, had no difficulty in throwing clear. Nevertheless, it was a fine effort on the part of the Everton outside right. There was a brief spell of midfield exchanges and Tottenham gradually making ground Rance with a long shot, put the ball over the bar. Everton were then very aggressive on the left wing where a corner was forced, and from this a hard drive by Harris was very luckily charged down. The Spurs were speedily on the warpath again, and after Minter had been robbed. McTavish put outside. The ding-dong character of the game may be judged by the fact that both the goalkeepers were kept continuously on the alert and it was only the over anxiety of both sides to score that presented this desired end. Everton, however, soon steadied down, and the result of this was crowned with success Bradshaw, from the centre line worked his way through, and put the ball to Davidson. The latter centred almost from the corner flag, and both Bradshaw and Gracie missed it, but Beare fortunately was in his right place, and he scored with a swift cross shot that gave Lunn no chance. This success came after twelve minutes' play. Tottenham smarting under this reverse at once pressed strongly, and McTavish was almost through when he was knocked off the ball. Still the Spurs persisted. R. Steel was making fast for goal when Harris saved the situation at the cost of a corner. This was safely negotiated and Everton once more moved along in clever order. Bradshaw finishing the movement by shooting straight at Lunn, who effected a very clever clearance. A temporary spell of long kicking eased the tension somewhat, but it was not long before the Evertonians were busy on the left, Bradshaw being dispossed when well placed. The home right wing was very dangerous, and though Makepeace cleverly checked them, the ball was swung across the left, where Steel tested Scott with a hot shot. Further play in midfield was followed by a long shot from Middlemiss but this was punted clear by Macconnachie, and Stevenson cleared a second onslaught from the same wing. Tottenham at this point were pressing strongly, but McTavish gave relief by sending yards wide. Beare then got possession, and went away like a shot, but Brittan pulled him up at the last moment and the next item of interest was a long shot from Davidson, which was cleared. The visitors were playing very clever football at this time, and even the home supporters applauded their smartness. Tottenham, after a little temporary slackness roused themselves, and Newman working through, put in a fine oblique shot, which passed just outside. A few seconds later the home forwards again came to within as ace of scoring. Scott saving a crushing shot from Middlesmiss at the cost of a corner. These two shots had been the most dangerous that the Everton defenders had to cope with so far, and the safe negotiation of them caused considerable relief. Meanwhile Beare was busy, bustling Darnell and Brittan and it took this pair all their time to keep the speedy winger, but both goals were visited in rapid succession, but Beare was distinctly unlucky in not converting a wonderfully well judged pass from Makepeace into goal, the ball missing the mark by a more matter of inches. In the last few minutes of the first period the play fell off a little, but the game was still of a strenuous character. Tottenham tried desperately hard to reduce the adverse margin. Half-time Tottenham Hotspur nil Everton one. The first half had been wonderfully fast considering the soft state of the ground, and both teams had shown very pretty football Everton, however, were always the superior side, if only because of their half-back play which was superb. The forwards had done well their Gracie was rather out of the picture. There was a slight mist overhanging the ground when play was resumed before nearly 30,000 people. Tottenham were at once on the alert, and working down Minter just failed to score, the ball going over the bar. Everton at once took up the running and the home goal was subjected to a bombardment that caused the crowd great trepidation, at first Jefferis and them Harris had long shots at goal. For several minutes the Evertonians were all over the home defenders, and half a dozen shots were fired in by as many seconds, but somehow or another they all went astray. Jefferis, Gracie, and Bradshaw, all had chances, but they lost that at the last moment, and after a time the Spurs took up the running and proceeded to give McConnachie and Stevenson something to think of Everton continued to play fine football, and it was only the wonderful goalkeeping of Lunn that averted disaster. He saved one shot from Beare while rolling on the ground, and another from Bradshaw that struck the inside of the upright. Everton completely outplayed their opponents, and when Tottenham did get away they were kept well in hand. Result Tottenham Hotspur nil, Everton one.

NORTHERN NOMADS 2 EVERTON RESERVES 4
December 30 1911. The Liverpool Football Club
Northern Nomads: - J. W. Swann, goal, Armstrong, and C. Barlow, backs G. Roach Littlejohn, and F. W. Hall, half-backs G. Royal, J. Roche, E. Wefare, L. Boardman, and G.H. Barlow forwards. Everton Reserves: - Bromilow, goal, Plumb, and Meunier, backs, Allan, Weller, and W. Davies half-backs Pinkney, Doran, Gault, Robinson, and Chedgzoy forwards. Everton were the first to assume the aggressive, Gault and Robinson leading the attack, but Armstrong relieved with a hugh punt. The Nomads got away on the right and J. Roche sent in a hot shot, which hit the crossbar. From the rebound the same player scored Bromilow having hard lines in not saving. Stimulated by this success the visitors penned the Blues in their own half, and J. Roche put in a hot shot at goal, which Meunier handled. Armstrong took the resulting penalty kick, which Bromilow saved. The home forwards then forced the pace again, but Swann was in good form, Pinkney was prominent with some fine runs, and from one of these he scored from a fine drive. The Blues are now a greatly improved tea. The three inside forwards were all concerned in a well-considered movement, which Weller completed with a fine goal. The home side's total would have been increased had Chedgzoy given Robinson more work to do. Just before the interval Gault broke through all opposition and scored a third goal. Half-time Everton 3 Nomads 1. Chedgzoy scored a fourth for Everton and J. Roche scored for northern nomads.

EVERTON SECURE TOM BROWELL.
December 30, 1911. The Liverpool Echo.
Everton have done another big stoke of business, and one which will be quite a surprise to all follows of the club, because the capture of Tom Browell and Everton, was believed to be impossible after the reply the club received when Hull City were approached in September for the boy centre's transfer. However, Hull City have been seen fit to make change, and judging by their gates, one anticipate that this is the most likely reason for their decision to part company with the famous centre. Browell is a boy. He is only eighteen years of age, and has already made a name in the football world. Last season he appeared in thirty-two matches for Hull and scored, sixteen goals. He comes from a football family, he as a brother Andrew playing centre half for the Hull team, while another brother George –is playing for Grimsby this season. At the moment, Tom Browell is second to Freeman in the goal getting list. His style of football is not class, but he knowns where the goal lies. He stands 5ft 9ins in height, and weights 10 and half-stone. It may be wondered why Everton went a centre-forward in view of Graci's vastly improved form, for our own part, we should say that goal-getting centre forwards are so difficult to find nowadays, that it is wise to have more than one on the club's list in case of emergency. The Everton officials are to be congratulated upon their enterprise and upon their success. The fee is a big one, and is said to run into four figures. Still the club would not stop at few pounds in view of the keen competition for the services of the boy. The club realised their weakness when the opening game of the season showed the Blues in a poor light, and the signing of Bradshaw was a clever slued, and now Browell's incursion should prove a valuable player to Everton in view of the approaching Cup-ties. Browell learned his football at a village on the banks of the Tyne named Walbottle. A newsgency says the transfer fee paid for Browell is a large one, and is to believed to be around about £1,600.