MAKEPEACE AND THE AMBULANCE
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 01 December 1904
By Bee
Many correspondent have written me asking when the replay between Woolwich Arsenal and Everton has been fixed for. Up to now no date has been settled upon by the clubs, and it is most likely that the officials will wait until the Cup draw is announced before cheering another date. Perhaps Everton, who have only twice appeared in the Football Association Cup Final- in 1893 Wolverhampton Wanderers beat them by a goal to none, and in 1897 just put the damper on them by a goal margin, five goals being netted-will oblique by working their way to the Palace of Delight by next April, and then replay with the Arsenal on the following Monday. There will be a big crowd present whenever the contest comes off, for the Londoners are scooping in big “gates,” and the Everton forwards pleased them immensely. McLoughlin, one of the newly signed players proved that he can be replied upon when put to a severe test. Everton share equally with the Arsenal the “gate” receipts of the replay.
Makepeace was not so badly injured as reports have made out. At the Fulham ground an ambulance is always kept on the field, and when the men in charge saw Makepeace “knocked out of time” they promptly marched on the field and carried the half-back off on the ambulance-much to his amusement. He is quite well now.
Fulham by the way, are making their ground improvements and accommodation arrangement with a view to competing with the Crystal Palace Company, Limited, for the final tie of the English Cup to be played on their ground.

CRAVEN COTTAGE -FRIENDLY
Fulham Chronicle - Friday 02 December 1904
FULHAM v. EVERTON.
Fulham 2 Everton 0
This friendly at Craven Cottage last Monday attracted a poor attendance. The weather conditions were better than on the Saturday, and a fast game was seen. With one exception Everton played the same eleven that led the Arsenal by 3 to I at Plumstead, and the Cottages also had a good side out.  The first half favoured Fulham, whose defence was particularly sound, although Fryer had several dangerous assaults on his net to deal with. Twenty minutes after the start clever work by Lennie and Fitchie enabled the latter to get in a fine shot, which Roose partially saved. The ball came back to Fitchie, and a neat touch to Pratt enabled that player to open the some for Fulham. Makepeace and Hardman both made good attempts to equalise, but at the interval the Cottagers led by 1 goal to nil. The second half was also slightly in favour of Fulham, and after Balmer, the Everton back, had turned a centre front Soar in his own net, and given a further lead. L. R. Roose came precious near repeating the performance by his constant rushing out of goal. Fitchie once beat him for the ball but shot wide of the net, ad later on Ross also took a pot shot at the goal in the absence of the Everton custodian, but by a splendid effort he just got back in time to avert disaster. The end came with Fulham leading by 2 goals to nil, and on the run of the game they well deserved their victory.  Teams
Fulham.- Fryer; Ross, Thorpe; Howarth, Gray, Goldie; Soar, Graham, Pratt, T.T. Fitchie, Lennie.
Everton.- L.R Roose; Balmer (Captain), Crelley; S.B. Ashworth, Makepeace, Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, Hardman, forwards.
Referee, Mr. J. Foster.

BOOTH STARTS TRAINING
Liverpool Echo - Friday 02 December 1904
By Bee
Everyone will learn with pleasure that Tom Booth, the Everton captain, is so far improved as to be able to restart light training. Since the beginning of the season he has been out of the team.

EARLESTOWN V. EVERTON RESERVE
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 03 December 1904
At Earlestown. Everton kicked off uphill, and at once got dangerous, but Grime saved. Earlestown then pressed, but Hoynes shot over. Harper scored for Earlestown after 30 minutes' play. Half-time; Earlestown 1, Everton 0. In the second half Finnegan scored for Everton after 18 minutes' play. Smith then got hurt, Earlestown played ten men. Result; Earlestown 1, Everton 1.

EVERTON v  WOOLWICH
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 03 December 1904
At meeting of the Management Committee of the Football League in Manchester, yesterday, it was decided that the Everton and Woolwich match should be replayed on a date to be mutually arranged.
Everyone will learn with pleasure that Tom Booth, the Everton captain, is so far improved as to be able to restart, light training. Since the beginning of the season he has been out of the team.
Everton v Derby County
League match at Goodison Park, kick-off 2.30
Everton.- L.R. Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, HP Hardman, forwards.
Earlestown v Everton Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Earlestown; 2.30.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, Finnegan, Thomas, and Evans, forwards.

EVERTON v  DERBY COUNTY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 03 December 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
HALF-TIME; A CLEAN SLATE
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
The visitors at the Goodison Park enclosure this afternoon were Derby County, who, though not the most brilliant of teams, have a well-earned reputation for being usually an unknown quantity, and capable of playing a very hard game both in League and Cup encounters. Last year, when the Peakites paid Everton a visit the home supporters had the mortification of seeing their representatives beaten by a goal, the only one scored. As the Blues fared exactly the same fate when they last performed at the Park, there was a kind of doubly powerful reason that they will put their best foot forward to-day, and treat their supporters to a really fine victory. Teams;-
Everton.- L.R. Roose; Balmer (Captain) and Crelley; Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
Derby County.- Maskery; Methvin, and Morris; Warren, McAllister, and Rimmer; Hownsfield, Rimmer, Paton, Gilchrist, and Davis.
Referee A.J. Barker.
There were about 15,000 spectators present when Young kicked off for Everton, there being little or nothing in the toss for choice of position. The game had not been for long in progress when the Everton front rank were busy in front of the Derby goal, where Settle made a bold bid for success, but failed. Everton then gained a corner, from which Young nearly scored. The game veered round, and the County men had their fair share of the game; but although they got close up to the Everton goal they were unable to successfully pierce the Everton lines. After numerous fine moves on either side the home contingent gained a corner on the right, but although this was cleared, a free kick taken by Crelly enabled them to come back in full force, and a further corner put the visitors’ defence in danger. Shap forced another corner in the same way, but Maskey was not tested. The County right wing made a fine spurt, and matters looked ominous, but both Crelley and Balmer flanked up nicely and spoiled a well-intentioned pass to Paton. Hardman took play down the left of Maskey when there were numerous short exchanges without Maskey’s citadel being threatened. A free kick against Everton gave the County momentary relief, but Everton’s inside trio made a very clever advance, and Young wormed through McAllister, Morris, and Methven and was sailing into goal when Maskery rushed out and fairly took his legs from under him. Immediately after Maskey was very hotly pressed, and saved finely from Settle. Everton’s front rank were doing grand, and quite outwitting the County halves, but though they swarmed round McKay they could not get the leather through, and not from bad play, as the Everton shooting was really deadly, but the County custodian did well, and one long speedy shot from Abbott brought out a magnificent shot. At last the County made a very fine dashing move up their left, which should have resulted in a certain score as the Everton defence was hopelessly at sea. Davis and Gilchrist worked right up to the corner play where Balmer was outwitted and Gilchrist put in a short slow centre which Paton somehow missed. The ball came on to Blom, who had also a good chance, but this glorious opportunity was doubly missed. The County had another try before they were ultimately driven out. Roose having to respond to a very hot drive from Davis. Soon after Settle was dashing away down the centre, but Maskey judged his advance to a nicety and served him exactly as he had served Young before bringing him to mother earth. The little man was up in a trice, but Methven and Morris had then closed in. the breakaways of the County were now very dangerous, and a smart effort by Davis and Gilchrist resulted in the latter skying the leather. Hardman initiated a capital move, in which he was well supported, and the Everton quintet were nearly all in the goalmouth, when Maskey saved once more at the expense of a corner, but Hardman centred too far up the field, and no danger resulted from the move. Shortly afterwards the home contingent broke through all opposition, and Young troubled the defence, but then passed to Sharp, who was instrumental in forcing a corner from Morris. This being cleared, each of the Derby wings made inroads on the Everton defence, but neither Paton nor Bloomer could steer the ball in the right direction. Hardman and Settle were working with a capital understanding, and the outside man received a very most pass in a capital position when Methven bore down upon him, and used his height and weight somewhat unfairly. However, Abbott managed to gain possession, but he had to do a lot of manoeuvring before he could attempt a shot, and when he did so his vis-à-vis, McAllister, was so close upon his heels that Abbott tumbled over and missed his chance altogether. The County could not get away, however, and the whistle announced the interval. Everton should have scored three times over, and so, indeed, should the County once at any rate, had it not been for the slackness of Paton and Bloomer.
Half-time score; Everton Nil, Derby County Nil.
EVERTON ATTACK IN VAIN
DERBY’S STERLING DEFENCE
PRETTY BUT FEEBLE FORWARD TACTICS
ROOSE IN FINE FORM
Paton restarted the game had not been long in progress when the home front line was seen to fine effort. Young finishing the move by shooting by the side of the post. The Derby right wing returned the compliment, but the ball was tipped to Roose, who had no difficulty in clearing his goal. A further attack by the homesters ended in Young being fouled in the act of shooting. The County ever kept trying to break away, but failed on either side of the field. The Evertonians replied by attack on each wing, Sharp on one occasion being brought down when he was nicely placed. A free kick saw the homesters back again and Maskery had a very warm, shot to deal with from Settle when the whistle, for an informality. A clever move between Young and McDermott just ought Maskery napping. Unfortunately, however, McDermott’s effort proved a little side of the mark. Maskery had to respond to very well meant effort by Little before Everton retired. It seemed up to this as if the County defence was a veritable Port Arthur. The Blues attacked without ceasing, only to find the opposition of Morris, Methvin, and McAllister too determined. Warren and Hounsfield presented Davies with a fine opening, and the last named nearly headed into the net, after which a free kick against the homesters led up to an extraordinary attack on the Everton goal, Roose bringing off the save of a lifetime in answer to Paton. Final Result Everton nil, Derby County nil.
Last season’s game at Goodison Park resulted in favour of the Peakites by 1 goal to nil.

EVERTON 0 DERBY COUNTY 0
December 5, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
GOAL'S AT DISCOUNT
In dividing the points with Derby County on Saturday Everton did not realise the expectations of their supporters. There is however, this solatium that the result was an improvement upon the corresponding game last season, when the County were one of the four clubs who achieved the distinction of gaining a victory at Goodison Park. Laterly the Derby side have possessed the happy knack of reserving their best form for Everton's ground, but, curiously enough, when the records of the inter-club matches are considered, the balance is all in favour of the Evertonians. After the Woolwich Arsenal match, in which, prior to the enforced abandonment, Young and his comrades registered three goals. It was fondly hoped that shooting prowess would be in evidence. This however, proved to be illusory, and the second home game in succession Everton has failed to find the net. Two periods of 90 minutes with never a goal is not at all to the liking of the club's supporters. It was in this respect that Saturday's contest was so disappointing. Usually a game in which no goals are forthcoming does not find favour with the crowd. The magic cry “Goal” seems to have a stimulating and satisfying effect, and when the score sheet remained clear there is an element of interest lacking. Thus it was on Saturday. Still there was any amount of vigorous play, and at times really clever and attractive passing. In fact, it was what can most realistically he describe as a hard game. Both sides entered into the fray which pleasing determination. But there was something wanting, and that was finishing touch. After all, nothing more aggravating than to see a side performing brilliantly in the midfield, and then, just when success should crown their efforts, to find that all the good work is thrown away by indecision at the critical moment.
CHANCES MISSED
The game opened in a manner, which suggested that the spectators were in for a rare treat. The pace was a cracker, and the forwards on both sides gave one the impression that they meant business. Well this was the case up to a point. With their chances Everton ought to have obtained a commanding lead before the interval. True, Maskery kept goal in grand style, some of his saves being worthy of a Baddeley, but, all the same, a little more judgement and dash on the part of the home attack might easily have brought about the discomfiture of even an expert custodian as Maskery. In the second part of the proceedings the County were the more dangerous team. Except for one shot from Young, which, fortunately for Derby, was directed straight at the keeper. Maskery was never in difficulty. On the other hand, Roose had two or three splendid shots to negotiate. One of his clearances from Warren was especially brilliant. Had he been beaten the amateur could not have been blamed. Undoubtedly this was the nearest approach of Derby County towards the repetition of their one goal to all success of last December.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS
As the goalless draw indicates, defence prevailed over attack. The goalkeeper of S.R.Roose and Maskery could not have been improved upon. Balmer and Crelly were a capital pair of backs, but they had an easier time than Methven and Morris who not only kicked well, but tackled in vigorous and fearless fashion, as no doubt Sharp and H.P.Hardman could testify. The veteran Taylor was probably the most prominent half-back on the field, the pick of the Derby halves being Richards. Young was not, in his happiest vein. He is a tantalising centre forward, at one time, brilliant and artistic to a degree, at another hesitating and uncertain. Both he and McDermott failed to convert a perfectly ideal centre from Hardman, who, in spite of hard knocks struck to his work like the plucky player he is. Sharp was not himself by any means, while Settle was much more prominent than McDermott. There was no outstanding feature in the visiting attack, Bloomer was not the Bloomer of old, and though Houndsfield with his rare turn of speed, caught the eye, probably the more effective wing, certainly during the first half, was that formed by Davies and Gilchrist. Teams : - Everton: - Roose, goal, W.Balmer (captain) and Crelly, backs, Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Derby County: - Maskery, goal, Methven, and Morris, backs Warren, McAllister, and Rimmer, half-backs, Houndsfield, Bloomer, Paton, Gilcrist, and Davies forwards. Referee A.J.Baker

EARLESTOWN 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
December 5, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A”Division (Game 14)
No Details. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick and Hutchinson, half-backs Roberts, Rankin, Fannigan, Thomas, and Evans, forwards.

EARLESTOWN UNFORTUNATE
Athletic News - Monday 05 December 1904
Earlestown played in dashing style against a strong Everton side, and Kitchen, the keeper, had plenty of work, once being well beaten from a corner which curled out off the post from the foot of Smith.  The locals led 1-0 at the interval.  Finnegan equalized with a simple sort of shot.  Smith, the Earlestown centre was injured and had to retire about mid-way in the second half, and though handicapped Earlestown came near gaining the decider.  The game was a draw –a goal each. 

GOODISON GOALESS
Athletic News - Monday 05 December 1904
By Junius
As was the case last season, Everton failed to score at home against Derby County, but as they also prevented their opponents from finding the net, they improved upon their performance of year ago, and turned a defeat into a draw. Still, the fact that they have played for three hours without once defeating the Derby custodian is disappointing, and whilst not desiring to withhold one particle of praise from the clever County defenders, it must be admitted that the Everton forwards have only themselves to blame. In their last two home matches the ball has never been netted, either legally or otherwise, and when their performances away from their own enclosure are considered the result is astounding. Everton obtained opportunities enough have won half a dozen games, and dallied with all, whereas Derby only secured a few openings, but the most' dangerous shot of the match came from their half-back, Warren. In the first half Everton were a long way the better side, and the County were only occasionally dangerous. Maskrey stopped everything that came in his direction, and though he effected some capital clearances, he was aided considerably by the dilatory methods of the Everton front rank. Some of the shots which he did save ought never to have been placed that he could ever reach them, and whilst awarding the smart keeper credit for his sterling work-during a trying period. I am perfectly convinced that had the Everton forwards been in the same mood when they routed Nottingham Forest, the defence would have been pierced more than once. The best attempts came from Settle after about five minutes’ play, and Abbott, the latter sending in a terrific drive from foul just outside the penalty area. Fully three fourths of the game was contested in the vicinity of the Derby goal, and even when the County front line did get clear they made as feeble efforts to score as the home set. A centre from Gilchrist was badly missed by Bloomer, and Hounsfleld receiving, shot hard, but Roose was ready. Their best chance came after a free kick had led Roose to tipping a fine ball from Paton over the bar. The ensuing corner gave Davis possession, but the left winger, who could not have been five yards from the posts, sent high into the stand.  After the change of ends, the quality of the play deteriorated considerably. Everton went from bad to worse. Before half-time they had occasionally levelled a difficult ball at Maskrey, but with one exception, a straight shot from Young, they did not make an effort that caused the custodian the slightest anxiety afterwards. On the other hand Warren first of all gave Roose a high shot to fist away, and then sent in tremendous ground drive that brought the Everton goalkeeper down full length, and all the latter could do was to just hook the  ball outside the post. Up to the finish Derby had quite as much of the play as the home side, and this kept the interest alive in the closing stages. The only wonder was whether the visitors would cause a sensation by piercing the goal. They made several good attempts, chiefly by the aid of dashing sprints on the part of Hounsfleld, but the end came without any thing tangible being achieved. Everton were disappointing, inasmuch as they confined their ability to midfield. Apparently their idea was to dribble, pass, and repass until they were absolutely under the cross-bar. At times they did get past the backs, but even then they could not beat Maskrey, who by his cleverness saved his side from defeat. Young was completely off colour in shooting. When in this humour the Everton centre forward is feeble, whereas in his finest vein there is no more deadly forward playing. No fault could be found with any of the front line in neutral quarters, but when inside the penalty area they hesitated to the verge of distraction. In the rear divisions some splendid work was achieved. Taylor and Abbott were the best of the half-back line, for they were unceasingly lobbing the ball to the men in front of them and keeping them, in the first half especially, continually on the aggressive. Further behind Balmer and Crelley kicked and tackled grandly. The latter was resplendent at times, and on his form this season we have not seen his superior at Goodison Park for consistent defence. Rooee had little to do, and there were only about three shots which caused him trouble. His second clearance from Warren was one of the smartest performances in the match. The Derby forwards were a fairly level lot, without being unduly prominent. Hounsfield is a speedy right winger, and has excellent control whilst dribbling at full pace. Bloomer was rarely in evidence, and for real effective work the left wing was the more successful. Their best display, however, came prior to interval, though neither Davis nor Gilchrist were seen to such advantage afterwards. Richards was a hard worker, and the most useful of the half-backs. He was closely followed by Warren, who had some rare tussles with Hardman. It was further in the rear that the best exhibition was given by the visitors, Morris and Methven performing creditably all through.  They did not stand on ceremony in clearing their lines, and their methods were the chief factors in breaking up the effectiveness of the Everton forwards. Maskrey was in splendid form, and has developed the habit of other Derby keepers in previous years of giving his finest display at Goodison Park. He certainly kept Everton at bay when they were going their strongest, and when the least hesitancy or default would have been fatal. Everton; L.R. Roose; Balmer, Crelley; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Derby County; Maskery; Methven, Morris, Warren, McAllister, Richards; R.E. Hounsfield, Bloomer, Paton, Gilchrist and Davis.  Referee; A.J. Barker, Hanley. 

ANOTHER DRAW FOR ASHTON
Athletic News - Monday 05 December 1904
The meeting of Ashton Town and Everton furnished a finely fought struggle for the delectation of the large crowd that assembled.  The teams were evenly matched, and the result –a goalless draw-best represented the game.  The goalkeeper was the most conspicuous man on the home side, and Rankin was the best of the Everton forwards.  He was, however, well watched by Sanderson.  Ashton tried a new inside-right in Huxley, of Farmworth, who last year figured with Colne and he gave a capital display. 

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Monday 05 December 1904
Everton’s inability to score in their League match with Derby County forms the second occasion this season in which they have failed to find the net on their own ground. A fortnight ago Sunderland prevented them from piercing their defence, and a curious coincidence is that in these two games last year the Everton forwards were unable to get a goal.  In their most recent exhibition, the latter did make some decent efforts in the first half of the play when near goal, but after the interval they with one exception-this being a straight shot from Young-rarely troubled the Derby keeper, Maskey, and only a clever piece of work by Roose, who brilliantly caught a tremendous drive from Warren and just scooped the ball outside the upright, saved them from a similar reverse to last season. Time and again the forwards would work the ball cleverly to a favourable position for shooting, but truth to relate they very seldom seemed like scoring. Even admitting the fact that Maskery played a capital game in the Derby goal, he would never have been allowed to reach many of the shots which he cleared had the home forwards been in the same mood that they were against Nottingham Forest and Sheffield Wednesday. When inside the penalty area they either dallied until dispossessed of the ball or passed to a comrade, who repassed it, and so on and on, while all the time Derby were strengthened their defence. Little fault could be found with their play apart from this one vitally important feature, and whilst apportioning a certain amount of credit to them for their smart tactics in midfield, this was considerably modified by their supineness when un the vicinity of the goal posts. There is no need to individualise as regards the members of the front rank; in elaboration of offensive movement they were skilful, but the climax was always lacking. Their best work was accomplished in the first half, when they had their opponents pretty well in hand, and their dalliance with the opportunities they had cost them the game. After the resumption, they deteriorated in every respect and their superiority completely vanished during this period. The half-backs kept them well employed and given the same chances again it would not be surprising to find them harvest a rare crop of goals. Taylor was once more in fine form and his consistently excellent performances in the centre position are certainly the distinctive feature of Everton’s present campaign. Abbott allowed the smart Derby right wing pair little latitude and it was only in the closing stages that the latter could make headway. Ashworth was erratic, but further behind Balmer and Crelley were in splendid trim, their kicking and tackling being alike excellent. Roose kept a grand goal for though he had little to do, that little happened to be of a most troublesome character.
The Derby forwards were no better than those of the home side when it came to a question of getting goals. Beyond the shot sent in by Hounsfield near the interval, and the one from Warren who drove in from the half-back line, the abilities of Roose were seldom requisitioned. Before half-time Day’s and Gilchrist put in some telling work, the inside player being especially prominent, but afterwards the right wing predominated and Hounsfield, the old Repton School boy, was responsible for some dashing dribbles along the line. Richards who was formerly in the front rank was the pick of the half-backs and much of the success of the left-wing forwards in the earlier stages was due to the manner in which they were attended to by him. It was in defence that Derby were seen to most advantage, and the vigorous play of Methven and Morris neutralised the advances of the Everton forwards. They stood on no ceremony in clearing and considering the manner in which they were pressed in the opening half they came out of the ordeal creditably. Maskery proved himself a most capable custodian, and in the first five minutes he dealt with a shot from Settle in great style. On other occasions he displayed good judgement in timing his clearances, and after his pre-interval experiences the comparative rest which he subsequently enjoyed would no doubt be appreciated.

EVERTON FORWARDS OFF FORM
Liverpool Echo - Monday 05 December 1904
By Bee
Everton have their forwards to blame for not winning. For three-parts of the journey the Blues were attacking strongly, and were able to overcome most of the opposition many times. What happened them? Well an opportunity would present itself, the forwards would dally and be lost. Most aggravating was the display of the inside forwards, McDermott is not a great player on Saturday’s form, for, although brilliant in midfield (his artistic touches were most pretty to watch) his good work was all thrown away by his refusal to shoot. The impression formed on most people’s minds was that Everton never looked dangerous because they would not dare to test Maskery with a long shot. How many golden chances were nipped from the home forwards in the first “45” it would be hard to say; certainly they would have bene three up had they accepted the suggestion to “shoot” at the identical moment when there was a possible chance of scoring. This charge of hesitancy and of dribbling the ball to within a yard of goal before testing the goalkeeper is going to prove the undoing of the club needs quickly remedied. I have seldom seen a more listless forward exhibition. Sharp was not quite up to his high standard, McDermott did not trouble Maskery, Young and Hardman were over on the go, and Settle indifferent. The halves as a line were splendid. What a terrier is Taylor. Balmer and Crelly were resourceful and tackled well, and looked finely. The left back had one very good try to record a goal. We have known these chance shots to win games, and all honour to Crelley for giving his attacking men an example. The last should be first. Roose! A more wonderful gave than the stopping of the terrific drive by Warren I have never men. That is not all. Tice previously had the Welshman saved in almost as miraculous a fashion. Roose saved the game, and was easily the hero of the hour. His vis-à-vis did some smart things. Roose outshone him altogether. Morris and Methven are deserving of highest praise for nice back play, and Warren showed a tenacity and gluttony tr work that was astonishing. He is a most valuable half. Richards kept Sharp well in hand. He is an ex-forward. Paton is a bulky double of Vivan Woodward, both in face and manner of trapping the ball. He gave at times some delightfully clever touches and towards the conclusion of hostilities dribbled through a host of opponents and fully deserved a tangible result. Bloomer does not deteriorate with age. He draws out the young Reptonian Hounsfield in fatherly manner. The international helps the defence appreciably when he falls back. It was a capitally contested game, and a draw well reproduced the merits of the teams.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN WHEN BOOTY RESUMES PLAY?
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 06 December 1904
By Bee
Crelly’s continued good form should ears him a “cap” this year. He is rarely beaten, and his tackling is apparently most difficult to overcome. Quiet and methodical he is very reliable and barring accidents, I fancy he stands an excellent chance of gaining the footballer’s highest honour for the first time.
Booth’s return to the fold is being anxiously awaited by the Everton supporters who are of opinion that his value as captain at centre-half is tremendous. Then comes the question. Who will be left out of the half-back line- that is taking it for granted that Booth will show a sign of his form of seasons gone by?  Probably the old and well-tried trio. Taylor, Booth and Abbott, will be chosen.
On Saturday the club receives a visit from Stoke from whose ranks Roose was recruited. Last April we well remember how the Potters by a goal win at Goodison Park, practically made themselves safe from the Second Division pitfall. At Victoria ground Everton had won by 3 goals to 2, so that points were evenly distributed in the end. Stoke’s team now includes Whitley (in goal) and Sheridan (forward), so that there will be much interest evinced as to how they are performing with they new masters.

AN OFFER TO COACH TO EX-EVERTON MAN
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 07 December 1904
By Bee
An offer has been received by Robertson of the Glasgow Rangers, to coach the Sportnavi Club, Slavia v. Praze, the engagement to begin in February. The Scottish International left half-back caught the fancy of the Prague officials while playing in Bohemia for his club last May. If terms are favourable he will accept. Robertson at one time played for Southampton and Everton.
Mr. R. Peters asks for the forwards playing for Everton Reserves, on November 26th;- against Rossendale United. Here they are – Roberts, Rankin, Finnegan, Caldwell, and Thomas.
Stoke have within the last few years taken seven points from Goodison Park, and the result of their last two journeys here was in each case a win favouring them by a goal to nil. Only six times have the Potters conquered the Blues, and, generally speaking these victories were made safe at the Everton ground. Going into past history, one finds that in 1889-1890 Everton whipped their friends to the tune of 8-0, and in the season of 1893-1894 they got six of the eight goals netted; while in 1895-1896 seven of nine goals fell to the Liverpool men. Between 1888-1889 till 1895-1896 Everton defeated Stoke a dozen times, scoring 37 goals to 81. In all the meetings between the two, Everton have won nineteen games Stoke six, and five have been left drawn. The Park players have two nasty smears to wipe off their slate on Saturday; those last two meetings in Liverpool were most unpalatable.  

FOOTBALL TO-MORROW
Liverpool Echo - Friday 09 December 1904
One has only to look up records of the Stoke visit to Goodison Park to realise how seriously the home men must tackle their opponents to-morrow if they mean to smash the Pottery. They may only crack it gently. Everton supporters will rightly, however, expect their men to do what they have failed to do in the last two home matches-namely to score one goal- more, for preference of course- and win. The last two occasions Stoke came here they won by a goal to nil, and now is the chance of the wearers of the blue jerseys to wipe out those objectionable remembrances with a sound victory.
There are many unusual features in the game which will help to draw a good crowd. Whitley and Sheridan will be seen working against former club mates. McLoughlin will be partnering Sharp and Makepeace will be one of the intermediate line. There will be much to interest we imagine.
The Everton F.C. have decided to make the kick-off in their match at Goodison Park tomorrow at twenty minutes past two, not half past as previously arranged. As far as snow is concerned, those pensions who intend seeing the match need have no fear of abandonment for the officials have already arranged to have the snow cleared away, and the ground is in the best possible condition.

EVERTON V STOKE
Dundee Evening Post - Saturday 10 December 1904
At Goodison Park in fine weather before 9,000 spectators. The ground had been cleared of snow, Everton played McLoughlin and Mekepeace instead of McDermott and Ashworth, and Stoke had Roose back again. The play was mostly in Everton's favour, Abbott scored a fine goal, but this was equalised. Sharp missed a penalty, and although Everton pressed they could not score again. Interval Everton 1, Stoke 1. Final, Everton 4, Stoke 1.

TEAM ARRNAGEMENT
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 10 December 1904
Everton v Stoke
League match at Goodison Park; kick-off 2.20
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Ashton Town
Lancashire Combination match at Ashton; train from Lime-street, 1t 11.40
Everton.- Scott, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-back; Roberts, Rankin, Dilly, Caldwell, and Evans, forwards.

EVERTON V. STOKE.
Staffordshire Sentinel - Saturday 10 December 1904
A Plucky Game.
But Potters Lose Points.
Everton ... ... 4 Stoke... ... ... ... I
During the past two seasons Stoke have done well when visiting at Goodison Park. Last season and in that of 1902-3 the Potters won by one solitary goal on each occasion. Before 1902-3 Stoke had never gained two points at Everton. Last season's victory coming at a most opportune moment will still be fresh in the minds of many, and Whitehouse scored a fine goal on that day. Up to to-day Stoke and Everton had met in 30 League games, and the majority of goals scored was with the Toffee men by 62 against 32. Of the 30 games Everson have won 18, while Stoke have been victorious in eight, four games having been drawn. The highest score of any of these matches was that of 8-0 registered by Everton on November 2nd, 1889. The Toffeemen have since won by 6-2 and 7-2. The Potters realised the difficulty of the task that lay before them this morning. Everton had so far this season lost only one match-that with Sunderland—at home. They had accounted for Aston Villa (3-2), Nottingham Forest (5-1), Preston (1-0), Sheffield United (2-0) and the Wolves (2-1). The team of the Evertonians has not been less conspicuous since the advent of two players well known to North Staffordshire—LA. Roose and S. B. Ashworth—whose services appear to have been very warmly appreciated by the supporters. The ground at Goodison Park had been cleared of snow, but it was in an exceedingly sloppy and heavy state, especially on the wings. The Stoke team was stronger by the presence of Rouse at inside right, so that Sheridan was able to resume his place at inside left. Hartsborne was missing from the back division, and Burgess was again brought in, but was played on the left, with Benson on the right. There were two changes in the Everton team—Ashworth was away at right half in consequence of a cold, and his place was filled by Makepeace. a local youth; while McLoughlin displaced McDermott at inside right. The teams were:
Stoke;- Whitley, goal; Benson right back, Burgess, left back; Baddeley, right half-back, Holdford centre half-back, Bradley, left half-back; Hesham, outside right, Rouse, inside right, Hall, centre, Sheridan, inside left, Brindley, outside left.
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer (Captain), right back; Crelley, left back; Makepeace, right half-back, Taylor, centre half back, Abbott, left half-back; Sharp, outside right, McLoughlin, inside right, Young, centre; Settle, inside left, Hardman, outside left.
Referee; Mr. Fred Kirkham.
THE GAME
The afternoon opened bright and fine, but the wisdom of the early start which was made could not he doubted. Stoke lost the toss, and from the start Rouse and Hesham tried to get away, but Abbott spoiled them and sent the ball down to Settle, whose shot glanced off Benson for a corner. This was put somewhat wide, but Young obtained possession and shot weakly behind. Some very clever work was next performed by Bradley, who successfully tackled Sharp and McLoughlin, but his efforts were spoiled by the ball finally rolling into touch. From the throw-in the ball was quickly transferred to Baddeley, who made a good attempt to send Hesham and Rouse away to the Everton goal. Abbott and Taylor were again busy, and Settle was at last put in possession. Benson could only beat him by playing into touch. From the throw-in McLoughlin had a shot which was expelled by Burgess, and Hall made the pace down the centre, passing out to Brindley. Then Hall awaited the return, but Makepeace spoiled Brindley and kicked over the touch line. The Everton Right now Pressed and forced a corner off Burgess. This was successfully cleared, and Burgess tried to give the ball to Sheridan, but Balmer intervened and dropped a huge kick in front of the Stoke goal. Whitley was surprised by the height to which it rebounded, and he was just in time by a long reach to prevent it from travelling under the crossbar. The custodian kicked down to the Stoke forwards, and Brindley and Sheridan worked in combination. The run was spoilt by Rouse being blown offside. Again in business-like fashion Young had a shot which Burgess played on to his own goal. Whitley cleared, and the ball travelled out to Taylor. The latter put out to Sharp, who centred, and Abbott pounced upon it and with a low drive from twenty yards' range beat Whitley, whose view was obstructed by his own backs. This success for the home team was the result of a quarter of an hour's play. It was almost immediately followed by an equalising goal, got in fine fashion by Rouse. The equaliser came in this way; Burgess had repulsed McLoughlin, and Bradley, by some neat work had found an opening and transferred the ball over to Hesham. The latter went on with the ball for a yard or two, Balmer and Crelley falling back on the goal; and then Hesham gave to Rouse. Slipping in between the backs Rouse got his aim, and with a simple sort of shot he netted the ball beautifully. Roose making practically no attempt to save. The home forwards broke away from the restart, and Hardman fired in a lovely oblique shot at a terrific pace. Whitley judged it beautifully, and coming out a yard he diverted the flight of the ball for a corner. From the flag kick McLoughlin raced in, and again Whitley saved smartly. Burgess finally clearing. Another great shot came from Young, and Whitley saved marvellously once more. It appeared that Whitley’s goalkeeping was going to be the feature of the match, for the next minute a penalty was given against Burgess for tripping Young. Yet the Potters’ custodian saved the penalty kick, which was taken by Sharp. Whitley was applauded to the echo for his brilliant work. The visitors’ attack now began to make some headway, and after Hall had worked hard for an opening Brindley had a shot which Roose stopped dead on the line. The Stoke halves played a clever game in the ensuing invasion of their quarters by the home attack. Baddeley and Bradley were particularly smart and once Benson was lucky to beat McLoughlin when he was running for goal, Whitley had another handful from Makepeace, who put in a nasty twirling shot, but the Potters’ custodian was not to be beaten. Burgess was kicking somewhat weakly, and was far inferior to his partners. The Stoke defence was having a hot time, and the half-backs and Whitley must be credited with the success which was achieved in keeping the attackers at bay. A long kick by Whitley was intended to set the left wing of the visitors in motion, but the smartness of Makepeace prevented Brindley from freeing himself and again the home quintette raced away, and McLoughlin put in a fiery shot which Whitley caught but fumbled in running out with it. McLoughlin ran on to the custodian, who dropped the ball and fell on it, but at last he got it away. A free kick was for some unknown reason against Whitley, but notwithstanding that this occurred not ten yards from the goalmouth the pressure was cleared. Stoke went away on the right, and after both backs had mis-kicked, Hesham forced Crelley to concede a corner; but the visitors were weak in front of goal. Taylor was hurt during a scrimmage, and soon after his recovery the whistle went for half-time. Interval;- Stoke 1, Everton 1.
Stoke were certainly to be accounted fortunate in being able to cry quite at the end of the first half. Only magnificent goalkeeping had saved them, and the work of Whitley had been a source of admiration to the 10,000 spectators. Rouse had had little to do, and one of two shots which he had to deal with had beaten him. So that it by no means depreciates the work of the Stoke team to say that they were somewhat lucky. The half-backs of the Potters had been game, but the forwards would have met with greater success perhaps on the slow ground if they had flung the ball out in wider passes. In the first two minutes of the second half Stoke had to withstand pressure from Hardman and Settle, and the latter forced a corner, from which Rouse and Hesham escaped with the ball, only to be foiled by Abbott. Two smart off- side decisions by Mr. Kirkham (operating to the disadvantage of either side in turn) were the only features of interest until McLoughlin broke away and was Grandly Robbed by Holford.
In the next minute Holford was penalised for hacking Settle, but this resulted in only feeble! pressure, and Rouse finally got away and beat, Crelly but could not get screw on his shot, which went wide. The play of the Everton forwards had a tendency towards selfishness, but they were well looked after by a grand lot of half-backs. Once Hall put Hesham in possession, and the ring winger dropped in a good shot, with which Roose ran out and allowed to slip through his hands, but the ex-Stoke custodian made a hasty and successful recovery. Fouls now came with undesirable frequency, and after one by Holford, Abbott had a shot which was a yard wide. Settle followed suit with a very weak effort. Hardman followed these two examples, and after Benson had failed to stop him he shot behind. A big kick by Burgess enabled Brindley to clear the but he spoiled his chances by centring to a spot within six yards of which there was not another stoke man. Again the Potters' defence was hard taxed, and a shot by Sharp at a most awkward angle Slipped Past Whitley and found its way to the far corner of the net. Stoke afterwards crossed the mid-way line with a rush, but were soon beaten back.  Hall and Sheridan were not long inactive, however, and, helped by a neat pass by Holford, they got well down, but Brindley put the ball outside. Soon after this Rouse had to save from Hall. Rouse was playing a fine game and made things hum on his wing. He was unfortunate in being given off-side on one occasion. When play came into the Stoke half Burgess and McLoughlin came into violent collision, and both went off into the dressing room. A smart run by Hesham was followed by a quick centre. Rouse afforded a fine opportunity, but Hall and Sheridan missed badly. Bradley tried to remedy the mistake, but shot wide. In the ensuing play Bradley got a severe kick on the knee, and had to retire, so that Stoke played with only nine men. Both team, adopted a one back game for a few minutes. When Bradley and McLoughlin returned with only eight minutes to go the game became somewhat scrappy. Benson once miskicked, but Stoke kept their goal clear until Young (who had been hanging offside) got the ball and at close range beat Whitley for the third time. Holford got in the wars and had a nasty kick on his leg. Stoke finished with ten men, haying played a plucky and worrying game. Past on time Sharp added a fourth goal.

EVERTON v  STOKE
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 10 December 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
ABBOTT SCORES THE FIRST GOAL
ROUSE EQUALISES
The dreadful weather of the past few days made the football outlook for this afternoon anything but pleasant, and during this morning doubts were entertained in some quarters as to whether it would be possible to bring off the game. However, about noon, the weather conditions ceased, and to the general surprise it turned out a fine afternoon. Naturally the ground had been affected to a great extent, but the snow had been cleared off the playing patch, and being wonderfully well drained it presented a fairly good appearance when the time for commencing play came round. Everton had Makepeace in place of Ashworth, who is on the sick list, and McLaughlin appeared vice McDermott. Stoke had a couple of old Everton players in Whitley and Sheridan. The attendance was very much on the small side, not more than 5,000 being present at the start. Teams;-
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Stoke.- Whitley, goal; Benson and Burgess, backs; Baddeley, Holford, and Bradley, half-backs; Hesham, Rouse, Hall, Sheridan, and Brindley, forwards.
Referee- Mr. Fred Kirkham.
Hall started for Stoke and Abbott intercepted the visiting centre’s pass. Settle took up the running and a miskick by Benson allowed Hardman to force an abortive corner. Operations remained in the Potters’ territory and Young sent yards wide from a favourable position. After Sharp had failed in a tussle with Bradley the visitors advanced on the right, only to meet with a stubborn resistance on the part of Crelley and play settled in midfield. Settle and Hardman showed clever work on the home left, and Makepeace had a final effort charged down. The next movement came from visitors’ forwards, who advanced in promising fashion only to miss the leather at the critical moment. The Potters maintained the advantage, but Rouse was declared offside, and the opportunity was lost. Sharp was prominent on the Everton left and Holford was forced to grant a corner, which despite a gallant effort on the part of Taylor, failed to bring about the desired result. A long punt by Balmer almost ended disastrously for the Potters. Whitley was careless in his clearance. By the way of a change the Stoke men broke away on the left, but Sheridan was somewhat neatly dispossessed by Makepeace and the ball being sent across neat play took place between Little and Hardman. Baddeley came to the rescue, and Stoke broke away, but failed to get beyond the half way line. The Evertonians came back on right and left and gained a corner, but could not improve on this advantage. Another burst came from the Stoke left and Balmer was in difficulties with a bad serve, but luck came to his aid, and Rouse missed going clean through. The home team came away with a bound, and after Whitley had brought off a couple of good saves, McLoughlin passed out to Sharp, who took the ball along and effected an accurate centre. Young played the ball, but failed to fairly take it, and it was diverted to Abbott, who with a low sharp drive, scored the first goal for Everton, after about a quarter of an hour’s play. Whitley had no chance whatever of saving his goal. From the restart the Evertonians assumed the aggressive, but the Stoke defence was not to be caught napping and the invaders were forced to beat a retreat. After a bit of midfield play. Taylor failed to check the Stoke forwards who diverted play to the right wing, where the inside man beat both the Everton defenders and rushing in easily beat Roose with a fast oblique shot. After their success the visitors played with much more confidence and for a time the home defenders were very hard pressed. Relief came at last, and after a fine centre by Hardman the same player tested Whitley with a beauty which he cleverly saved. The home forwards kept up the pressure, and McLoughlin sent in a fine header. Whitley throwing clear with good judgement. The Evertonians came again, and Young put in a beauty, which, however, met with the same fate at the previous efforts. During an attack on the Stoke goal Burgess “hooked” Young within the penalty area, and a penalty kick was at once given. This was taken by Sharp but Whitley brought off a clever save. Stoke right got away. Rouse being beaten by Crelley, after which Young was very prominent during attacks on the Stoke goal, sending in a long shot, which travelled over the crossbar after which he headed in from a pass by Sharp and finished up by being given off-side after the ball had been prettily worked by McLoughlin and Sharp. Stoke attempted to break away but Taylor intervened and Everton came back and attacked stronger than ever. The Everton forwards were now putting in some telling work, and it required the best efforts of the Stoke defence to cope with the many intricate shots aimed at Whitley. Makepeace sent in a long drive, which passed all opposition and Whitley safely handed and threw clear. Clever work by McLoughlin and Sharp enabled the former to finish with a good effort, which, however, went a few inches the wrong side of the upright. The Evertonians still maintained their position in Stoke territory and Makepeace gave Settle an opportunity of which he failed to take full advantage. The next item of interval came from a long shot by Settle, and Whitley running out to save, held the leather too long, and the visitors were penalised. The free kick, although neat the goal, brought no tangible result. Abbott nearly brought off another goal in a similar manner to the first item. Sharp giving a fine centre and Abbott dashing in and shooting. Rouse dribbled away, and Hesham forced a corner off Crelley. This was accounted and then there was a short stoppage owing to Tayor being slightly injured. Fine play by Makepeace staved off a further Stoke attack and the interval came with the game in the visitors’ quarters the score being 1 goal each.
Half-time score.- Everton 1 goal, Stoke 1 goal.
THE POTTERS “POTTED.”
Young restarted and the home left at once put on pressure. Benson repelled one attack, but the left wingers pressed forward again, and Settle forced a corner. At this point the spectators had increased to somewhere about 12,000. After a corner had been cleared the Stoke men broke away on the left, only to be beaten by Crelley. They then tried on their left, but met with no better success. A foul against Halford for interfering with Settle yielded Everton no advantage, as Rouse dashed away with the ball, but ended with a wretched shot. After a prolonged attack by the Evertonians, play was transferred to the Potters’ right wing, where Crelley beat Rouse in a race for possession. Still the visitors were not to be denied, and the leather was passed to Hesham who centred causing Roose no small amount of trouble to clear. Everton next advanced on the right their progress being stayed near the corner flag by the granting of a free kick to the visitors, after Young had made a feeble effort to obtain the lead. Taylor passed the leather down the centre to Little, whose final shot lacked force, the ball barely reaching the goal-line. Rouse went down the visitors’ right, but was well accounted for by Crelley, and after a throw in Hersham passed out to Brindley, who was beaten all to pieces by Makepeace. A couple of free kicks landed the Everton men in front of the Stoke goal, and after a while Hardman got placed, but missed. Then Young had a try, but was interrupted with claims being made for a penalty, but without avail. Soon afterwards Taylor rushed the ball along from near the half-way line, and passed out to Sharp, and who sent in a slow ground shot, which passed into the corner of the goal, Whitley failing in his endeavour to save his charge. After the restart Hall and Sheridan worked their way to the Everton goal, where Brindley put in a fine shot, which just curled round the post. Just afterwards Burgess and McLoughlin came in collision, both being hurt and leaving the ground, and they were followed by Bradley, likewise limping. Crelley went inside right, each team playing one back. McLoughlin and Bradley resumed, and Everton attacked strongly. Passing by Taylor, Settle and Young ended in the latter scoring. Sharp followed with a fourth goal. Final Result;- Everton 4 goals, Stoke 1 goal.
Stoke left the Goodison Park enclosure last season with 1 goal to nil in their favour.

ASHTON TOWN v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 10 December 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV. A
This encounter took place on the Recreation ground, Ashton, this afternoon, owing to the snow and rain which fell in the morning and the previous day. The ground was in a condition far from tip-top however. A fairly large crowd assembled to witness the game, and much interest was manifested in the game. Everton commenced operations, and Ashton were forced to defend. The Town responded with some pretty combination. Savage eventually giving the visitors’ custodian a good handful. A corner shortly afterwards was forced by the homesters, but Elston drove the ball at back. Play was now confined to the visitors territory. Everton endeavoured to force matters somewhat, but Leight was active, and defended well. The ball was again transferred to the Everton quarter, and Ashton scored, but the goal was given off-side. Everton now had a look in and were awarded a free kick in consequence of Marshall handling the balling. The, however, was not conductive to any good result, and the leather was returned. The visitors showed brilliant foot work, and made some clever movements. Up to half-time no score was registered. Final;- Aston Town nil, Everton nil.

THE EVERTON FORWARDS
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 10 December 1904
The Everton forwards are a splendid quintette when in form, but they were distinctly off colour against Derby County, and their supporters have only once previously this season left Goodison Park so dissatisfied. It was the second occasion on which opponents had gone away with something to show for their efforts, but whereas Sunderland carried off all the spoils the Derby men’s share was only one of the two points. Yet there was more real cause for disappointment than in the Sunderland match, for last week victory could have been gained if the forwards had shown anything like their true form. It was a pity to see Young so ineffective. On his best days he would have snapped up with great avidity one or two chances which fell to him. Settle and McDermott, too, exhibited little of their skill as sharpshooters. It would be well if the forwards could supply a chance in the character of their work near goal. Settle can dribble with bewildering skill and McDermott is also an artiste, but what the inside forwards require is more “go-for-goal” determination -less passing and more dash. PERSEUS

EASY VICTORY FOR EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 12 December 1904
By Junius
The conditions under which the League match between Everton and Stoke was decided were not of the most promising character. In the early morning the ground at Goodison Park was covered with snow, on which a downpour of rain descended and completely saturated the turf, and though, owing to the labours of a score of men, the white mantle was cleared before the game started, the foothold was exceedingly treacherous, and the going very heavy. In addition the ball became unduly weighty before half time was reached, and under the circumstances the display of football which was witnessed was most creditable. The finer points of the game were wanting, but the players—and Everton especially—desperately endeavoured to surmount these difficulties, and at the finish the home side had gained a ready victory. Both teams were well represented, as will be gathered from a glance at the subjoined list of names, and Stoke having won the toss gained no advantage thereby, for neither wind nor sun was in evidence. For fifteen minutes play progressed without especial incident, during which Everton had decidedly the better of the argument, and it was very seldom that Stoke got beyond the half-way line. Some neat passing on the part of Taylor and Young gave McLoughlin possession, and the latter instead of shooting transferred to Sharp, whose centre was fisted away Whitley.  Some rapid exchanges followed, and Abbott dashing in met the ball as it rebounded off Benson, and completely beat Whitley, who, judging from his gestures, was evidently unsighted by Burgess. Three minutes later Rouse received a long pass, and deftly eluding the attentions of Abbott and Crelley, ran close in and equalised in capital style. Everton then put on great pressure, and Whitley fairly saved his side from a more serious reverse shots from Hardman and Young beautifully taken, and he capped his efforts by stopping a penalty, which Sharp took, after Young had been tripped by Burgess. Thus, when ends were changed the teams were on a level footing, and for some time Stoke were seen to advantage after the resumption. However, Sharp tested Whitley with a teasing drive, and the ball hovered in close proximity to the goal posts, only McLoughlin again passed out to the Everton outside right, who registered his first goal of the season with a low drive which gave the keeper no chance. Rouse made another daring effort to equalize without success, and the visitors like seemed drawing level again when Rouse could only partially clear a centre from Hesham.  Then came a series of disasters, for McLoughlin and Burgess collided, and both left the field, though each returned after about ten minutes’ absence. While they were away Bradley received a knock on the knee and retired permanently. Both sides then played one back, and Crelley went forward to fill the vacancy at inside right When the first mentioned pair of unfortunates reappeared Crelley resumed his usual positon, and Everton became more aggressive than in any other previous portion of the game.  Some beautiful passing between Settle and Young gave the centre an opportunity, and cleverly brushing past the backs, he scored a third. Another came from Sharp after Hardman had smartly centred from a difficult position, and Everton were all over their opponents at the finish, winning comfortably by four goals one.  Throughout the game Everton were the superior side, and only the fine keeping of Whitley enabled the visitors to claim an equality at the interval. Fully three-fourths of the play prior to half time was contested in the Stoke territory and had the latter, been two goals behind in this period such a result would have been a more accurate reflex of the general character of the play than one goal each.  The home forwards were too clever for the defence which opposed them, and they frequently evaded the attentions of the Stoke half-backs, who could not hold them in check. Young played a clever game in the centre, and showed more dash near goal than was the case the previous week The Combination between him and the left wing was at times of exceptional merit, and the third goal was due to a really excellent bit of footwork on the part of Settle. Young was in readiness, and concluded in fine style a movement which had utterly baffled the defence, by scoring.  Settle was in rare trim, and his placing of the ball was very skillful, though near goal he failed to trouble the custodian, despite one or two easy chances. The extreme wing men, Sharp and Hardman, likewise did well, the former being particularly prominent in the second half.  McLoughlin seemed rather strange in his new position, for, although he is an inside forward, he prefers the left wing. He improved on acquaintance with Sharp, and showed an intelligent appreciation of the demands of the extreme winger as the game progressed. Everton were seen to great advantage at half back, and each of the trio rendered an excellent account of himself. Taylor, as usual, was an untiring, yet ever effective, worker. Abbott was in fine shooting trim, and was always dangerous when in possession; whilst Makepeace gave a most creditable display, and his fine turn of speed enabled him to frequently dispossess the Stoke left wing pair. Further behind, Balmer and Crelley were repeatedly in evidence with their timely returns and judicious defensive work. There was little to choose between the pair, who seldom made a mistake even on the slippery turf, the result being that Roose was only rarely troubled, and few shots came his way that required serious attention.  The outstanding figure in the Stoke forward line was Rouse, whose display was vastly in advance of anything accomplished by the other members of his side. His work was full of dash, and his dribbling most effective, for it was with difficulty that he was checked when he got the ball at his toes. His goal was a splendid climax to a fine bit of individualism. Hesham occasionally put in decent effort, but there was little sting in the Stoke attack as a whole. Neither were the half backs very prominent, and Holford was about the best of a line that failed to keep the opposition in anything like control. Further behind, Benson and Burgess kicked sturdily, but they were often rash in their efforts, and when hard pressed were content to land the ball rather aimlessly than with full Intent and purpose. Whitley could scarcely be blamed for the heavy defeat, for his exhibition in the first half was very fine. He had no chance with three of the shots which took effect, and the only one which seemed less difficult was the first goal scored by Sharp. This evidently deceived him by its course, for it just entered the net inside the upright. Teams; L.R. Roose; Balmer, Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, H.P. Hardman.  Stoke-Whitley; Benson, Burgess; Baddeley, Holford, Bradley; Hesham. Rouse, Hall, Sheridan, Brindley.  Referee; F. Kirkham, Preston. 

EVERTON’S NARROW VICTORY
Athletic News - Monday 12 December 1904
Accrington Stanley gave a good display against the Everton second string at Goodison Park, and were only beaten by two goals to one.  The feature of the Accrington team’s display was the very fine custodianship of McGregor, who was the recipient of unstinted applause from the crowd.  But for his sterling endeavours Everton would have prevailed by a much wider margin for they were the superior side as far as offensive work was concerned.  Wragg at full back, and Coates right half, were likewise responsible for some creditable defence.  Rankin and Dilly were seen to advantage in the Everton forward line, and Evans executed several smart runs on the extreme left.  Chadwick was prominent at centre-half, and Wildman again gave a good display at right half. 

Robert Graham who later signs for Everton season 1906-07

EVERTON 4 STOKE CITY 1
DECEMBER 12, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Jack Sharp penalty kick, saved by Whitley, the Ex-Evertonian
AN EASY VICTORY
At last the Everton forwards have found their shooting boots. Until Saturday last five weeks had elapsed without a solitary goal having been obtained by the side at Goodison-park. Now, with the aid of Abbott, be it remembered, they have registered four in one match and they are in favour once again. There were many features of interest regarding stokes's visit. Until a couple of seasons ago the Potters had never beaten Everton in this city, but then twice in succession they were victorious. Consequently some misgivings prevailed as to whether in view of Everton's recent disappointing display's at home the run of victory would be stayed. However, as matters eventuated, Everton obtained a couple of points with comparative ease by the satisfactory margin of four goals to one.
RUN OF THE PLAY.
Considering the heavy downfall of snow- in fact 20 men were busily engaged during the morning cleaning away three inches of snow- the ground was in surprisingly good condition. It was naturally heavy and somewhat treacherous, and these considerations no doubt affected the standard of play. A great game it could not be styled, but the players on both sides imparted commendable earnestness to their work. Although it was not until well on in the second half that Everton forged ahead in the matter of goals, they were always the superior side. The forwards, admirably led by Young went of with rare dash, and had it not been for several remarkably clever clearances by Whitley, an old Everton custodian, they might easily have secured a commanding lead in the early portion of the proceedings. As things turned out it was left to Abbott to open the scoring. This he did in his own characteristic style. Sharp crossed the ball beautifully, and Abbott rushing up banged it into the net low down without giving Whitley the ghost of a chance. Rather unexpectedly Rouse got through at the other end, and thus the teams crossed over level, thanks to Sharp missing a penalty kick (after Burgess brought down Young). Later on the brilliant outside right made amends. He not only gave his side the lead, and thereby obtained his first League goal of the season, but also after Young as the outcome of some really delicious passing, had added the third. He beat Whitley all the way for the fourth goal.
THE PLAYERS.
While the victory was very welcome, it was a source of gratification to find Young in one of his happy moods. He was a thorough worker from start to finish. Always in the thick of the fray, he distributed the play with marked discretion, and apart from the goal he scored he was undoubtedly one of the main fractors in the success of his side. McLoughlin, though doing nothing remarkable, made a creditable debut in First League football at Goodison-park. Evidently he possesses an intelligent appreciation of the niceties of the game, and with more experience of the methods of his colleagues should prove an exceedingly dangerous forward. Sharp was an effective partner, and there was little fault to be found with the left wing. Makepeace was a capital substitute for Ashworth; indeed it was remarkable if he was not the best half-back on the field. Balmer and Crelly were an efficient pair of backs, and what little Roose had to do against his old club he accomplished in finished style. As for Stoke, the outstanding performers were Whitley in goal and Rouse, the inside right. The former, as has been indicated, kept a fine goal while Rouse was the prominent figure in all Stoke's attacks. The halves were unable to hold the Everton forwards, while Benson and Burgess at back were inclined to be wild and erratic. In justice to the Potters it should be mentioned that Bradley was an absentee while Everton's third and fourth goals were scored.

ASHTON TOWN 0 EVERTON RESERVES 0
December 12, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 15)
In making a draw at Ashton, Everton maintained the good form they have shown of late. Throughout the defence of both sides was a feature, both custodians doing good work. Everton were rather the smarter side, but a goalless draw was a fitting termination to a capital game. Everton: - Scott, goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs Roberts, Rankin, Dilly, Caldwell, and Evans, forwards.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 12 December 1904
By their easy victory over Stoke, Everton gained two points in comparison with the corresponding fixture last year, in which they were beaten by a goal to nil, just at a time when they were exhibiting their finest form. A somewhat curious mixture of the forces of the respective clubs has occurred since that time, for on the Stoke side there figured Whitley in goal, and Sheridan at inside left, both of whom were League players for Everton last season. Included in the home side was Roose, the Stoke custodian of a year ago, but Ashworth was prevented from opposing his old comrades, as he was suffering a severe cold. Everton were the more aggressive side throughout the proceedings, and although they were attacking for fully three-fourths of the opening half, they could claim no substantial advantage over their opponents when breathing time arrived, as far as scoring is concerned. This was entirely due to some capital custodianship by Whitley who saved splendidly from Hardman and Young; and, in addition, cleared a penalty, which was taken by Sharp. At the opposite goal, Roose was seldom tested, for the Stoke front line only got away in spasmodic, burst, which were generally checked before becoming dangerous. It was after fifteen minutes’ play that Abbott opened the scoring, after Whitley had fisted away a shot from Sharp, and the Stoke custodian was evidently unsighted by Burgess, who seemed surprised at finding the ball in the net. About four minutes later Rouse was responsible for a dashing dribble, and getting close in, he gave Roose no chance with a remarkably fine shot. Several incisive attacks were made by the Everton forwards and, after pretty passing between Taylor, Settle, and Young, the latter seemed clean through, when he was tripped by Burgess in the penalty area. Sharp attempted to convert this, but shot straight against Whitley, and the interval arrived with the score one goal each. For some time after resumption the play was evenly contested, but Sharp got away and centred, whereupon a series of exchanges followed near the Stoke goal, and the right winger regaining possession, netted his first goal of the season. Roose made another fine effort to equalise, without avail, and then came a series of disasters. McLoughlin and Burgess collided, which caused both to leave the field; and, immediately following this. Bradley received a kick on the knee, and had to retire also. Both sides then played one back. Crelley going inside right; but, when the two first-mentioned players came back, after ten minutes’ absence, Everton adopted the usual game, though Stoke, owing to Bradley’s absence, concluded with one back. Some excellent manoeuvring between Settle and Young gave the latter an opportunity, and, brushing aside the backs, he went clean through and obtained the best goal of the match. Just before time Hardman cleverly kept the ball in play, and centred, for Sharp to register the fourth goal for his side, the result being a victory for Everton by 4 goals to 1.
These figures do not over-represent the superiority of the winners, who were the better team in every respect. Owing to the snow and rain which had fallen previously, the ground was in a holding condition, and manifestly against an accurate exposition of football. taking into consideration the inclement conditions, it must be admitted that the game was exceedingly well-contested, and the players on both sides made fewer mistakes than might naturally have been expected. All the Everton forwards played a good game, and, after gaining the lead a second time, they gave their opponents no quarter. Young went through the muddy turf in rare style, and infused any amount of determination into his work. Sharp was more prominent than in previous matches, but Hardman was not so aggressive, and undoubtedly felt the effects of the heavy going. Settle was likewise seen to advantage, his passes being beautifully timed and judiciously distributed. McLoughlin made a fairly satisfactory first home appearance, and will, no doubt, improve with further experience in the League eleven.
Everton’s greatest strength was at half-back, where some extremely sound work was accomplished by each member of the line. They kept their forwards well employed, backed them up in every onward move, and Abbott showed a welcome return to his old-time shooting form. Taylor was, as usual, always in the thick of the fray, and his consistently excellent displays week after week are surprising. Makepeace also gave an exceedingly creditable exposition, showing good judgement in his placing, and exhibiting plenty of dash when near goal. Balmer and Crelley were very safe, though the latter was perhaps the more noticeable, by reason of the fact that he was never at fault in his returns. Roose was not frequently called upon, and his most difficult shot was a low one from Hesham, which brought him to the ground. Stoke were best served in defence, Whitley being responsible for some clever clearances, and did exceptionally well against his old friends. The full backs, Benson and Burgess, were inclined to be wild occasionally in their kicking, and seemed content to get rid of the ball anyhow when under great pressure. At half-back, Holford, in the centre, was the most aggressive; but as a line, the trio did not reach the standard which they have exhibited in previous years in Liverpool. Neither were the forwards too effective, and Rouse was easily the best of the quintet. His dribbling was especially fine, and with the better support on either side he would have required a considerable amount of watching. Sheridan’s performance was a characteristic one, but he was never dangerous.

SHARP’S GOALS
Liverpool Echo - Monday 12 December 1904
By Bee
It was a cold and dreary day at Goodison Park on Saturday, and the game between the home club and Stoke did not give us much warmth. The ground was all against correct play, and we were not sorry to hear the final whistle. Everton’s forward rank was a vast improvement on the two previous home exhibitions. McLoughlin, who, by the way, is an expert French and Italian correspondent in a local warehouse, made a fairly good first team appearance at the Park. He lapsed into second-rate errors, and was inclined to wander somewhat. Of course, one realises what a trial it must necessarily be to drop into the bewildering ways and manners of the Everton front line men, particularly Young, who waded his way through the defence in an excellent manner. Therefore McLoughlin will improve with succeeding appearances. He kept John Sharp engaged with work in the early portion of the game, and well-directed passes. Then he fell away, and then, after retiring with a cut forehead, he showed an improvement. We expected more of him, and it was unreasonable of us, under the circumstances. However, McLoughlin will come on. Sharp made up for a most lamentable mess with a penalty by opening his scoring account for the season. Makepeace ran finely, tackled judiciously, and throughout did his duty in masterly fashion. Hardman was a glutton for work, and at times soared towards the angels to prevent the ball going over the line. Young has now scored nine goals and Abbott three. Crelly played as inside right while McLoughlin was off the field. It was a downright funny affair. First he fell, then he mispassed, and then -he gave up! No Crelly has demonstrated that he is not a forward. The pity of it. Little can be said in favour of Stoke, who seemed never able to adapt themselves to the heavy state of the turf. The forwards were held up continually by the Everton half-backs, while the defence, with the one exception of Whitley in goal, was very shaky. In the first half the ex-Evertonian played a great game, and it was mainly due to his magnificent goal keeping that the teams turned round on level pegging. Holford displayed some neat touches and was the best half on the field.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 13 December 1904
By Bee
“Next Saturday the Heath are at home to Everton, and we should see a fine game. Despite the lowly position of the Liverpool men in the table, they can always be depended upon to give a rousing game, but I shall expect to see the Heath put up another 2 to 1 victory, especially if Field and McRoberts are back in the team. One thing should be certain; there ought to be a gate of 20,000 or more. The measure of support given to the Heath is very steadily increasing, but I do honestly say that it is not as hearty as it ought to be. There ought to be gates at Coventry-road in equal proposition to those at Aston. Well, the Heath have a very favourable chance of beating their friends from Goodison Park.”
This critic implies that Everton are in a “lowly” place on the League ladder. True they are not so high up as one would wish but their record hardly deserves the word “lowly.”
However, after Christmas I fancy we shall see the Blues forcing their way towards the top, and I am full of confidence that on Saturday they will reap at least one point, and a win will not surprise me. At present there is every probability of McRoberts and Field being fit for Saturday.

TRANSFER
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 14 December 1904
P. Finnigan, Broxburn to Everton.

BOOTH WILL BE READY TO PLAY AGAINST MANCHESTER CITY
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 14 December 1904
By Bee
Tom Booth’s recent progress towards recovery has been exceedingly gratifying. The Everton captain is well in himself and the injured muscle is now almost quite sound. He will be ready for service on Saturday week, when Manchester City come to Goodison Park. Whether he will straightaway resume play with the first eleven is a matter for much consideration later on. Makepeace and Settle got rather nasty kicks in Saturday’s match with Stoke. They will be in fit condition for the Small Heath game, and no change in the eleven which represented the team last week is likely.
The young half-back, I learn, is an adapt at taking penalty kicks. Well, we have seen three missed at the Park, and a trial with him would be a good move.

WILLIAM McLOUGHLIN
Edinburgh Evening News - Thursday 15 December 1904
William McLoughlin, of the Hamilton Academicals, is giving promise of being one of the most useful players Everton have secured from Scotland. He can play in any position forward. McLoughlin is a warehouse clerk, and is an expert French and Italian correspondent.

EVERTON CAPTAIN RECOVERING
Bolton Evening News - Thursday 15 December 1904
Tom Booth, the Everton captain and centre half, who has been on the injured list for the greater part of the season, suffering from an injured muscle, is stated to be almost sound, and will be ready for service when Manchester City visit Goodison Park.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 15 December 1904
By Bee
Everton will reply on the following to tackle Small Heath on Saturday at Birmingham;-
Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
All these men helped in the defeat of Stoke last Saturday, and they are hoping to improve on last season’s results with the “Brums,” whom they beast at Goodison Park by 5-1, and with whom they drew in the return. Since the beginning of the year the Heath have startled everyone and the wonder is that their diminutive forward men- McRoberts, who formerly operated at centre, and now takes Charley Athersmith’s place, is the only one of the quintet of any size-have netted the ball so frequently. Their finest performance this season, yes, this year, in fact, was to go to Sunderland and beat the team by 4 goals to 1, which had the previous Saturday gone off with two points from Everton. Glover, the ex-Liverpool back as added that steadiness in defence that has long been required by the Heath. His partner, Stokes is playing in great form. Dougherty, formerly with New Brighton is spoken of in connection with international honours; Wigmore is now a captain, a most vigorous but sturdy defender; and Beer, who is a superior player once appearing with Sheffield United, form the intermediate line; and forward little Jones, whose calf was so big that the club had to order a specially made pair of “pads” is the chief offender in the matter of goal getting. Taylor will be expected to check his rushes with confidence. Green and Wilcox are hard workers and good shots, and Field has some dainty and effectual touches.
In 1901-1902 the Blues took four points by means of two 1-goal victories, and in the season 1895-1896 they won each game by 3 goals to nil. The tourney previously saw Everton beat them at home by five clear goals, and draw with them (four all) at Coventry road. Therefore records should go to infuse confidence in the Liverpool men, among whom are Abbott and Sharp, former players with Midland clubs. When with the Heath Abbott made a reputation at inside left as a sharp shooter.

FOOTBALL FIXTURES
Liverpool Echo - Friday 16 December 1904
By Bee
As the club colours of Everton and Small Heath are identical the home club will have to sport new jerseys. It is generally assumed that the home team in such instances give way as a matter of convenience. This is incorrect, the official ruling being that the older club have choice of colours. So that the Heath must forsake the blue jersey and white knicker to-morrow for once in a way. There are some points in the matter which prove that a change of colours is detrimental to the players’ exhibition. However this may be, there is reason to look forward to Everton gaining one point from their determined rivals.
With Everton Reserve against Accrington Stanley, Ritchie a young local lad, who has shown good form in the half back line, is given a trial.
On Tuesday afternoon the Old Rossallians, during the course of their Northern tour, will visit Goodison Park in order to meet the Northern Nomads, whom they defeated last year at Manchester by 2 goals to 1.

EVERTON RESERVE V. ACCRINGTON STANLEY
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 December 1904
At Goodison Park this afternoon. Both teams were well represented, Meadam playing goal for Everton. From the outset Everton pressed strongly, but a most stubborn defence was kept up by the visitors' backs. Getting possession, Acrrington ran down, Bennett putting in a splendid shot, which was nicely cleared by Meadam. From the kick out Everton played more strongly, and several times looked like scoring, but again the visitors' backs were equal to the occasion, and soon got out of difficulties. Both teams played strongly. A foul against Accrington gave Everton a chance, which was not taken advantage of, the leather eventually going outside. Anderson, having got possession passed to Becton, who made a good attempt to score, but failed. More midfield play followed. Half-time; Everton Reserve 0, Accrington Stanley 0. Resuming Everton showed signs of gaining the advantage, Evans and McAdam each scoring goals. Accrington played up and after repeated futile efforts scored through Heaton. Accrington kept up the pressure and several times looked like equalizing, but the home backs were ever on the alert the ball eventually going over the crossbar. Towards the finish both teams played a hard game. Result; Everton reserve 2, Stanley 1.

MORE DASH AT OOODISON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 December 1904
In last batch notes strong point was made of the need for the skilful Everton forwards to back up their cleverness with greater dash. Probably they had received a similar hint from other quarters, for ere the aforementioned notes appeared in print they had served a spirited display against Stoke, with the remit that they won four goals to one. Young, centre forward, went along in bold style. There were other factors equally agreeable. McLaughlin, the Cambuslang player, made Sharp a very useful partner, and his success should have the effect spurring on McDermott, who at his best, has few superiors. Moreover. Jack Sharp got among the goals for the first time this season, scoring twice. I like to see Lancashire cricketer shooting hard and true.

TODAY ARRANAGEMENTS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 17 December 1904
As the club colours of Everton and Small Heath are identical the home club will have to sport new jerseys. It is generally assumed that the home team in such instances give way as a matter of convenience. This is incorrect, the official ruling being that the older club have choice of colours. So that the Heath must forsake the blue jersey and white knicker to-morrow for once in a way. There are some points in the matter which prove that a change of colours is detrimental to the players’ exhibition. However this may be, there is reason to look forward to Everton gaining one point from their determined rivals.
With Everton Reserve against Accrington Stanley, Ritchie a young local lad, who has shown good form in the half back line, is given a trial.
Small Heath v Everton
League match at Small Heath; Lime-Street station, 10; Kick-off at 2.15
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Accrington Stanley
Lancashire Combination match at Goodison Park.- Kick-off at 2.20
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Ritchie, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, McAdam, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.

EVERTON v  SMALL HEATH
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 17 December 1904
The Everton team travelled to Birmingham to-day in order to meet Small Heath in the first of their two League engagements. The meetings between these keen rivals on the Small Heath enclosure has always been productive of exciting football, and to-day’s meeting was looked to with great interest in the Midland capital. The Birmingham Club up to their check at Derby last week had been going great guns, and it was generally expected that they would this afternoon redeem their temporary relapse by taking two points out of Everton. The visitors, on the other hand were confident, and all the men were reported fit and well. The weather in Birmingham was delightfully fine and mild, and some time before the game started a big attendance was assured. The Goodison Park brigade was the same that beat Stoke last week, but there were two changes in the home eleven. Athersmith displacing Tickle and J. Jones coming in for Field. Prompt to time, the players faced each other in the following order.- Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
Small Heath;- Robinson; Hartwell and Stokes; Beer, Wigmore (Captain), and Dougherty; Athersmith, Green, Jones, Wilcox and Field.
Everton won the toss, but there was no advantage in point of wind when Jones set the ball in motion. The homesters at once ran down on the right and got close in, but Jones was offside when he attempted to shoot. The visitors now took up the running on the left, Settle being especially conspicuous when he was checked by Hartwell. The combination between the Everton forwards and the half backs was now a notable feature of the game, and for some time the ball was kept bobbing about in front of the home custodian. At length Taylor tried his luck with a long shot, which Robinson sent in fine fashion, and continuing to press, the Evertonians subjected the home goal to a tremendous bombardment, and Settle put in a capital shot, which was cleared. Then the Heath took up the running, and moved down in clever fashion, putting in a great shot, which was magnificently dealt with by Roose, who ran out and threw clear. Clever as this clearance was it did not relieve the Everton goal from danger, for Wilcox and Field returned to the attack, and a swift low shot from the latter was scooped out of goal-mouth just in the nick of time. The following stages of the game, although fiercely contested, were more even in charcater, both ends being visited in rapid succession, but the defence on both sides was very sound. Good forward work put the homesters in possession for a time, and Roose had to deal with shots from Green and Jones, both of which he cleared finely. The visitors transferred play by means of the half-backs, and Sharp dashed down, passed to Hardman, who headed in, but Hartnell intercepted the leather and kicked clear. The game was being contested at a great pace, and excitement ran high when the Evertonians again put on extra pressure and worried the home defence. The three inside men were all prominent, and McLoughlin had a splendid opening when he shot over the bar. After this the tide of battle rose in favour of the home eleven, who exerted pressure on the right, but Athersmith shot yards wide. They returned almost immediately in nice combined order, and Jones put in a warm shot; Roose running out cleared partially, and the ball cannoned against Wilcox, who put in a lightning shot. Fortunately for Everton Balmer was in the way, and he was very lucky in being able to kick clear. A nice bit of work by Wigmore put the home forwards once more in possession, and going along in nice style Wilcox put in a low swift ground shot, but Roose proved equal to the occasion, and threw clear. Once more the Evertonians took up the attack, and they looked very dangerous when Young was pulled up for being offside. Small Heath made play on the left, and Dougherty tried a long dropping shot, but the ball went over the bar. The succeeding stages were in favour of the Goodison Park brigade, a nice combined movement being initiated by Makepeace, who gave to McLoughlin, but the wind carried the latter’s shot across the goalmouth. For some minutes after this the Heathens had the best of the play, but they finished badly, and it was not long before the Everton forwards were again on the move. Settle shooting high over the bar after running close in. the visitors retaliated and attacked strongly, and fine combined play between Taylor, Hardman, Settle, and Young jeopardised the Heathen goal. Young, finding that he could not get through out a clever side touch to McLachlin who, racing in, was about to administer the finishing touch to the leather when Stokes very unceremoniously bungled him up within the penalty area, and Mr. Lewis without hesitation awarded the extreme penalty. The kick was entrusted to Makepeace, who with a swift ground shot drove the ball into the corner of the net. This success naturally gave the visitors considerable encouragement, and for some time they had their opponents literally penned in their own territory. Settle, Young, and McLoughlin all put in shots, but they all came to nothing, thanks to the vigilance of the home defence. Then the visitors kept pegging away in a most determined manner, and a warm bully in front of the home goal ended in Wigmore fouling just outside the penalty area. The subsequent free kick led to another exciting scrimmage, but Abbott’s shot was eventually charged down. Towards the interval the visitors put on pressure, and they enjoyed all the best of the argument, completely bottling the Heathens up for a time. A judicious movement by Abbott put Hardman in possession, but the latter’s shot failed to find its intended mark. Keeping up the attack, the visitors still further harassed the home defence, and it was only the wildness in shooting when in front of goal that prevented further addition to the score. Just before half-time Everton made a desperate attempt to increase their lead. The ball was swung across by Sharp, and Young had a practically clear goal before him when he slipped and fell this losing a golden opportunity. This, however, was more than made amends for a few minutes later. Abbott running through, put in a hot shot, which struck the crossbar. Taylor got the rebound, and netted it amidst great excitement. The Heathens pressed for a moment, but to no purpose, and half-time saw the score Everton 2 goals, Small Heath nil.
EVERTON SECURE TWO POINTS
When play was resumed there were fully 18,000 spectators present, and the Heathens were evidently determined to make up the leeway against them, if possible, for they are at once ran down on the right, but Balmer cleared with a huge kick. Everton then ran down on the right, and the ball was swung right across to Hardman. The little amateur passed back to Abbott, who in turn gave to Young, and the Everton centre stuck the cross-bar with a clinking shot. The home forwards at once took up the running again, and the Everton defence was placed on its trial, but Athersmith spiled the movement with a bad centre. Everton in turn swooped down, and Young was about to shoot when he was pulled up for offside. Sharp then got possession, and centring well, Young had a pop at goal, but Robinson saved brilliantly. The visitors were once again monopolising the attack and a swift ground shot from McLoughlin came within an ace of scoring, and a few minutes later the same player was pulled up by Stokes just outside the penalty line, but the free kick came to nothing, and the game continued to an exciting finish. Later on Balmer gave a penalty by fouling Wilcox. A few minutes from time Jones scored from a pass by Athersmith. Final Result Everton 2 goals, Small Heath 1 goal.
One goal each was the result of the game at Small Heath last season.

MORE DASH AT GOODISON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 December 190
In my last batch of notes a strong point was made of the need for the skilful Everton forwards to back up their cleverness with greater dash. Probably they had received a similar hint from other quarter, for ere the aforementioned notes appeared in print they had served up a spirited display against Stoke, with the result that they won by four goals to one, Young, the centre forward, went along in bold style. There were other factors equally agreeable. McLoughlin, the Cambuslang player, made Sharp a very useful partner, and his success should have the effect of spurring on McDermott, who, at his best, has few superiors. Moreover, Jack Sharp got among the goals for the first time this season, scoring twice. I like to see the Lancashire cricketer shooting hard and true. PERSEUS

HEATH STAY AT HOME TO GET JUMPED ON BY THE EVERTON MEN!
Sports Argus - Saturday 17 December 1904
HEATH v  EVERTON
HOME TEAM BEATEN BY A BETTER SIDE
A FAST GAME
By “The Heathen”
In the match against Everton Field was able to resume his position, and Athersmith superseded Tickle at outside right in the Heath team.  Everton are an attractive side, and came at full strength. The teams were;-
Heath.- Robinson; Hartwell, Stokes; Beer, Wigmore (Captain), Dougherty; Athersmith, Green, Jones (W.H.), Wilcox, Field.
Everton.- Roose; Balmer (Captain), Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, H.P. Hardman.
In consequence of the Everton colours being similar to those of the Heath, the latter appeared in White. Everton won the toss, and the home men started towards the town-end goal. They promptly got along, but at a favourable minute Jones was pulled up for offside. Everton retaliated and Robinson was called upon to attend to a long shot from Taylor. In the next minute there was a vigorous onslaught on Roose’s position. It was instituted by Green, who shot with terrific force. Wilcox met the rebound, and the ball went out to Field, who centred. Across the goal mouth the ball travelled to Athersmith, who whipped it over to Dougherty. Just as the latter was getting in his shot, the ball touched Makepeace, and went into touch. The corner availed nothing. Thus early in the game the crowd- numbering 15,000 -were worked up to a pitch of excitement. For the next few minutes play ruled in the Heath’s half, although it was only occasionally that Robinson was harassed. Athersmith and Green both endeavoured to relieve the position, but they were pulled up for offside. In time the home right wing made progress, and Roose was requisitioned, but Athersmith did not make the best of his  opportunities. Maintaining the pressure, Field placed the visiting defence in a tight corner, and in the melee the heads of Abbott and Taylor came into contact. It was a fortunate happening for the Liverpool men, for, just as the Heath’s cause looked in a very healthy state, the referee stopped the game in order that the two Everton men might recover. At this stage the Heath were having the best of matters, and Wilcox made a fine effort, the ball just missing the post by inches only. After a spasmodic effort by Young and his companions the Heath again came into touch with Roose, and a minute or so later Dougherty put high over the bar. Play veered round, and after Young had been checked for offside, McLaughlin got in a long shot which Robinsons carefully watched outside the upright. Everton gradually assumed the upper hand, and in endeavouring to stop Settle Wigmore incurred the displeasure of Mr. Lewis, who awarded Everton a penalty. This was taken by Makepeace, who gave the visitors the lead exactly half an hour from the start. As may be expected the crowd did not relish Mr. Lewis’s decision, and he was subjected to much “booing.” Stung by this reverse the Heath moved with much vigour, but Everton replied gamely. In this work Everton displayed the greater tact and skill, and so held the upper hand. The home defence were happily brave, and shielded Robinson admirably. Hardman screwed in smartly, and, though surrounded by a host of opponents, Robinson cleared, but the ball was quickly back in the Heath’s quarters, where Stokes out-manoeuvred four or five opponents and sent well up the field. The Heath forwards, however, were out of gear and could not get going. Further disaster was in store for the Heath. Everton attacked energetically, and Abbott struck the cross-bar. Taylor met the rebound and succeeded from short range in augmenting Everton’s total. From the centre-kick the Heath made headway, but just as they reached Roose the whistle went for half-time.
Half-time;- Everton 2 Small Heath 0
On resuming Everton quickly got to work, and in the first minute or so Abbot passed to Young, who struck the crossbar, the ball going over into the crowd. From the goal kick the home men got away, but Everton were soon again on the warpath, and Young and McLoughlin gave Robinson hard shots. Within half a yard of the penalty line a foul was awarded the visitors, but it came to nothing. Field carried the ball to the other end, where Balmer conceded a corner. This was abortive, but the Heath renewed the attack and gained a foul close in. This was cleared by the ex-Small Heath man, Abbott, the home forwards were displaying better form than in the first half, and for a long stretch they were in close proximity to Roose. It appeared odds on them scoring at one stage. The ball passed again and again in front of goal, but the attack culminated in Beer putting wide. Everton again took up the attack, and maintained it robustly for some few minutes but the Heath defence prevailed, and in time play veered round to the other end. Everton soon gained the upper hand again and, after Hardman had done useful work, the home forwards broke away, and Jones and Wilcox dashed off. A few yards, from goal Balmer fouled Wilcox and a penalty was awarded. This was taken by Beer, and to the consternation of all, he put the ball outside. This was the last strew which broke the camel's back. The spectators were grievously disappointed; there appeared not the slightest hope for the Heath. Everton came again with the force of an avalanche and for five minutes the home defence was demoralised. How Robinson's charge escaped further disaster remains a mystery. After a temporary visit had been paid to Roose, Hardman accomplished a brilliant run and centred. Sharp and McLoughlin came dashing along to meet the ball. They got past Stokes and another goal seemed a certainty. There's many a slip twist the cup and lip, however. Sharp, struck the upright, and the ball, rebounding, was secured by Robinson and thrown away. In the next minute the Heath were at the other end, where Jones reduced the visitors lead from A centre by Athersmith. Encouraged by this success, the Heath attacked with tremendous zeal, and the excitement became intense as Roose was surrounded. Everton worked with frantic energy, and succeeded in 'clearing their lines. Athersmith middled admirably, but the ball travelled across the month of the goal into touch. Then Wilcox put over. Try as they might the Heath could not equalise. Result-Everton 2 Small Heath 1
GOSSIP ON THE GAME
The Heathens opened in business-like style, but the first really dangerous moves were made by Everton. Settle has lost little of that dash which has gained him International caps. In the first ten minutes he made two capital runs, and but for the smartness of Robinson the visitors would have scored.
It was a capital game to watch -fast exciting and scientific. The Heathens gradually settled down to their proper game, that delightful blend of dash and combination which has proved disastrous to so many crack teams this season. A capital shot by Green and a plucky individual effort by Jones were features of the early stages. They are a capital pair of “little ‘uns.” Unfortunately this standard of play was not maintained.
Wigmore did a lot of useful work, but his kicking was not as safe as usual. During spirted attacks on the Everton goal he twice failed to get in his kick, and all advantage gained by clever forward play was lost.
An injury to Taylor a few yards from the Everton goal may not have done the player any good, but it was certainly beneficial to his side, for Mr. Lewis stopped the game when Jones had possession of the ball and only Roose to beat.
It must, however, be admitted that the Heath forwards rather overdid the short passing game. They often indulged in short sharp tips when a long pass to the wing men would have gained more ground.
Athersmith was given more chance than Field, which was bad judgement for the old Villa man has lost a lot of his speed and dash. Has he lost his nerve?
As a team, Everton are perhaps more brillaint than sound. Settle and Hardman make a fine wing, and Sharp is a very useful outside right, but as a line they are not dangerous.
It was a dash by Settle and Hardman that brought disaster to the Heath. The former was brought down inside the penalty area by Wigmore. It seemed a perfectly fair charge, but Mr. Lewis ruled otherwise and Makepeace gave his side the lead. Hard lines, Small Heath! The Heath half-backs were not seen at their best. Wigmore practically gave Everton a goal, and the miskicks referred to above probably robbed his side of two points. Beer was the pick of the line, Dougherty being erratic.
The home backs, however, were in fine form, particularly Stokes, who performed a difficult task in admirable style, kicking with accuracy and tackling with fine judgment. It was certainly not his fault that Everton led by two goals at the interval, the visitors second point being luckily obtained by Taylor.
Poorly supporters by their halves, the Heath forwards had few opportunities to shine after the first fifteen minutes. It would, therefore, be unfair to criticise their  play. All were triers, Green and Jones being the most conspicuous.
Settle was the best forward on the Everton side, and Taylor the pick of an admirable half-back line. Crelly and Balmer were sound at back and Roose did his work well in goal. The old Stoke man has dropped his objectionable habit of “playing to the gallery.”
Early in the second half the Heath should have reduced Everton’s lead, but Beer failed to make use of a penalty kick, and from that point the home side played like a beaten team-or perhaps it would be more correct to say that Everton exhibited the confidence of a winning side. Yet the Heath scored! The point came from a breakaway, Jones hooking the ball neatly into the net. What a pity Beer missed that penalty!
Small Heath did not have the best of luck, but on the day’s play the better team won. Had the home side maintained the form they showed in the first quarter of an hour it would have been a great struggle. Unfortunately they deteriorated and their chance of heading the League table is becoming remote.
MR. W. McGREGOR’S SNAPSHOTS
Small Heath were not seen at their best to-day, and there can be no question of the superiority of Everton, whose 2 to 1 victory was gained  by means of skilful and meritorious football. I expected the game to be one of the best at the Coventry-road enclosure this season. Everton did not disappoint me, but Small Heath did. In the early stages there was not an atom to chose between the sides, both goals being attacked by means of clever sharp-shooting. It was the penalty awarded against Wigmore that turned the fortunes of the day. From the time Makepeace beat Robinson Everton improved, while the Heath deteriorated, and up to ten minutes from time the visitors were a vastly superior side. In the last minute the Heath made a tremendous rally, and probably had they utilised their opportunities they might have equalised. As an instance of the throwing away of chances it must be mentioned that Beer missed from a penalty. Had this not occurred, we might have had a different tale to place on record. The great weakness on the Heath side was at half-back, generally where there is great strength. For the first time this season Dougherty was not up to concert pitch, neither was Wigmore, and although Beer was the best he did not cover himself with glory. A great deal of work was thrown on to the backs, and here, again, there was slight deterioration. The forwards were ragged. Wilcox was the most consistent. Field did not get in so many centres, while Athersmith did not centre with any accurate until the last ten minutes. Jones and Green were only moderate. On the Everton side Roose had a lot to do in the first half, and did it well. The backs were always reliable, the half-backs were of great power, and the forwards skilful and energetic. Sharp was the weakest of the five.

 A TALE OF TWO “PENALTIES”
Athletic News - Monday 19 December 1904
By Brum
Those who went to Coventry-road on Saturday expecting to see one of the best games of the Small Heath season came away amply satisfied, for, from the Everton point of view, at any rate, the standard of play was very high.  Those who visited the ground anxious to gaze at the match through Small Heath spectacles probably left somewhat disappointed, for, from a Small heath point of view, the standard reached was not so high.  Still, to the impartial spectator the proceedings were full of interesting, and, generally speaking, the score of two goals to one in favour of Everton aptly represented the general run of the game.  I daresay a great many Small Heath spectators will feel inclined to contest this assertion, and point to the excessively bad luck which attended the efforts of the “Heathens” late in the game.  I am afraid the average football enthusiasts is far more influenced by what he sees in the concluding twenty minutes than by either a general run of the play or the happenings of the initial half.  That frenzy created by the spirited form of Small heath in the closing twenty minutes when they rained in shots on L.R. Roose, scored a goal, lost two easy chances of getting others, and missed a penalty, probably drove quite out of the casual man’s recollection the polished play shown by Everton prior to the interval.  At the point named the Liverpudliams were leading 2-0, and both points were well obtained, the first being from a penalty taken by Makepeace and the second being the direct result of one of Abbott’s specialties –namely, a long shot which struck the cross-bar and rebounded into play only to be met by the ever-watchful Taylor, and placed past Robinson.  The penalty was granted against Wigmore.  The crowd did not seem to coincide with the views of the referee, but when it comes to the view of Mr. John Lewis versus the crowd, one is inclined to pin his faith to the less party.  Small Heath are not accustomed to losing this season, and they resented the imposition of this penalty.  I think, however, that Mr. Lewis is quite able to judge such a point, and he was well placed for seeing what occurred.  Still, the charge did not look vicious or even illegal to the looker-on.  I say this to excuse, in a modified degree, the demeanor of the crowd, and not to impugn the good sense of Mr. Lewis.  One could wish that crowds would be tolerant when an expert is in charge of the game.  Small heath seemed to be rather knocked off their play by this penalty kick, and they were palpably the inferior team from this point onwards until ten minutes prior to the end.  Then they “set about,” Everton in thrilling style, and it was by the veriest accident that they did not drew level; in fact, anything might have happened during the period of their ascendency.  The crowd was savage, indeed, when from a penalty kick granted against Balmer, Beer, usually reliable enough, missed the kick.  If that had been taken advantage of I think Small Heath might have won.  They would unquestionably have drawn.  But Beer put the ball wide, and although the indefatigable Jones, who was pegging way in the centre, scored before the end came, Small Heath could not draw level, and so the points and, broadly speaking, the honours, of the game rested with Everton.  It was a fiercely contested and spirited, but not a rough or ungentlemanly game.  Everton have in L.R. Roose a goalkeeper of admittedly high reputation.  He has not diminished his efficiency or marred his popularity by dropping the unnecessary mannerisms, which at one period characterized his play.  He is as good a goalkeeper as any team could desire.  Balmer and Crelley look alike, and they play a similarly effective game.  They were two of the stalwarts of their team.  The best man of the side I thought was Taylor.  For a veteran of veterans he is indeed a model of what a footballer should be.  He has an ideal conception of the duties of a centre half.  I scarcely noticed a faulty pass from him in this game.  Abbott was effective and forward, H.P. Hardman took the honours.  John Sharp was moderate, failing to get in his centres; and McLoughlin, his partner has the making of a good man; but there is room for improvement at present.  The young player showed good sound bustling football, and was always in evidence.  For Small Heath, the backs were good, and the team were weakest where they are usually strongest –in the half-back line.  Wigmore was nothing lie so safe as usual, and Dougherty, for the first time this season, was off his game.  The forwards were more ragged than they have been for some time in a home match.  Jones worked hard, but Athersmith was a failure until the closing ten minutes.  Green and Wilcox were the bets forwards, but Field found Makepeace’s pace a serious drawback.  There were 15,000 spectators present.  Small Heath for some inexplicable reason, do not seem to command that patronage which they assuredly deserve.  Small heath; Robinson; Hartwell, Stokes; Beer, Wigmore, Dougherty; Athersmith, Green, Jones, Wilcox, Field.  Everton; L.R. Roose; Balmer, Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee; John Lewis, Blackburn. 

SMALL HEATH 1 EVERTON 2
December 19, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Beers sent penalty kick wide
EVERTON'S FINE FORM
It is rather unique that Small Heath have never yet defeated Everton in a First League engagement. There were hopes in Birmingham that the record would go by the board as the outcome of Saturday's game. However, these did not materialise and the Heathens will have to fight another day before they can lay claim to their win over Everton. Though victory has never been their portion, the Heathern's have participated in not a few exciting games with the Evertonians. One several years now, provided the spectators with a plethora of excitement, if memory serves, Everton started off in such irresistible fashion that the first twenty minutes' play yielded them four goals. Small Heath particularly looked hopelessly beaten, but through slackness on one side and grim determination on the other, the arrears were gradually rubbed off until in the end the Heathens were within measurable distance of effecting a surprise.
CLASS TELLS
But on Saturday's encounter. Even the most pronounced of the home club's supporters recognised that victory went to the side, which on the play was decidedly the superior combination. Yet the curious feature is that while Everton were value for a much more decisive score than two goals to one suggests, it was quite within the bounds of possibility's that in the closing stages, when the Heathens were playing with the energy despair, a lucky shot might have provided an equalising goal. Fortune, however, was on the side of Everton, who have rarely better deserved a couple of points. There was no comparison between the methods of the two teams. Everton gave a “classy” exhibition, which on the heavy ground- the most treacherous they have figured on this season- was exceedingly creditable. On the other hand Small Heath had no real plan of campaign, science being discarded in favour of vigorous and bustling tactics. The game from the first was conducted at a great pace, but once the Evertonians settled down they were obviously the cleverer lot. Still, Robertson was not beaten until Makepeace converted a penalty kick , (after Young was fouled) and the second goal only arrived just before the interval, when after Abbott had banged the ball against the crossbar, Taylor rushed up and headed into the net. For the greater part of the second half Everton were masters of the situation. Indeed the wonder was how the capture of the Small Heath goal was averted. On one occasion, Young experienced vile luck with a rasping shot, which grazed the crossbar, while on another Sharp propelled the ball against the upright. In the course of their spasmodic attacks Small Heath had a chance of scoring from a penalty kick against Balmer, but Beer missed the mark entirely. However, Jones got through shortly before the finish, and, as been indicated, the home team after this made desperate but unsuccessful efforts to equalise.
ABOUT THE PLAYERS.
The display of the Evertonians was of such a character that adverse comment is uncalled for. Truly there was not a weak spot, though naturally one of two of the players stood out above their colleagues. Hardman was in a sparkling humour, and was a rare thorn in the side of Hartwell. Tricky and judicious, he was always a conspicuous figure, and that delighted centre of his which Sharp sent against the upright ought to have resulted in a goal. Young was an admirable pivot, and both inside men did well, McLoughlin being responsible for some really effective work. In a capital half-back line Abbott was the most successful, and it was not his fault that he did not score against his old club. Roose in goal was not severely tested, and he had in front of him a sterling pair of backs. Small Heath were weak, both forwards and at half-back, Jones, the smart little centre, tried all he knew, but he was badly supported. Athersmith is by no means the Athersmith of old, though his was the centre, which led to Small Heath's only goal. Hartwell and Stokes got through a lot of work with credit, while Robinson kept a splendid goal. Compared with last season's match, which ended in a draw of one goal each. Everton gained a point. Up to now on the corresponding games of last season they have no fewer than six points in hand. If this continues-well, the championship of the League will be theirs once again.
Teams : - Small Heath: - Heath, goal, Robinson and Hartwell, backs, Stokes, Beer, and Wigmore, half-backs, Dougherty, Athersmith, Green, Jones, Wilcox, and Field, forwards. Everton: - Rosse, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly backs Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Referee John Lewis.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 ACCRINGTON STANLEY RESERVES 1
December 19 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 16)
EVERTON'S REVENGE
At Goodison Park on Saturday Everton took revenge for their defeat at Accrington earlier in the season, although the margin in their favour was only a goal, the score being 2 to 1. Had the visitors profited by a penalty kick in the second half they might have divided the points, but Anderson's shot hit the upright. On the play however, Everton were the better side, and it was due to the splendid goalkeeping of McGregor that the score was kept down. The Accrington custodian played a very fine game indeed, some of his clearances bring brilliant. Wragg Heaton and Hinks also did well. for Everton Ritchie a new local left half made a promising debut, and is worthy of a further trial. Kitchen kept a good goal while Wildman, Rankin, and Evans were also conspicuous. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Wildman and McCartney, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Ritchie, half-backs Roberts, Rankin, McAdams, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.

HEATHENS FAIL AT HOME.
London Daily News - Monday 19 December 1904
At Small Heath Everton defeated the home side by two goals one. Although Small Heath played with plenty of dash in the first half they could not score, while Makepeace and Taylor both got through for Everton before the interval. The visitors pressed on resuming, and Young hit the crossbar. From penalty kick Beer failed to score for Small Heath, but ten minutes before the close Jones got through for the home side. The Heathens had previously only once been beaten home this season.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 19 December 1904
By defeating Small Heath at Coventry road, the Everton accomplished a most meritorious performance. It was generally anticipated in view of the Midlanders’ long run of successes, that the Goodison-road brigade would find strong opposition; but, as matters eventuated, calculations were quite upset, and the issue might easily have been more decisive in Everton’s favour than by 2 goals to 1. The contest was one brimful of interesting incident throughout the ninety minutes of play. A cross breeze, slightly favourably to Small Heath, troubled the Everton men in the opening stages, but having once fairly measured the difficulties they dropped into their winning stride, and for the greater portion of the game cut out the play to their own particular liking, and gave the home defenders a most anxious time. The pace was terrific, and there could be no question that the better physical condition of the Evertonians had a most important bearing upon the result of the game. This was particularly noticeable during the second portion of the game, when the forwards especially raced about with an alacrity that at times was in marked contrast to the somewhat slow movements of their opponents. At the outset of the game the Heathens were distinctly a most formidable side. The forwards made good progress, and, in conjunction with their half-backs, must have early laid a solid foundation to success had not the Everton defenders and custodian been at the top of their form. So persistent were their attacks, and so determined in their efforts to pierce the Everton goal either by hook or by crook, that it was really astonishing how the visitors’ goal was kept intact. After the visitors had fairly settled down to the existing conditions, and had opened the scoring from a penalty kick, quite a kaleidoscopic change came over the proceedings. The play was more evenly distributed and slowly, but surely, the Evertonians asserted their superiority, and ere the interval a second goal was laid to their credit. On resuming there was little change in play, for the visitors set about their task in business-like fashion, and gave the spectators an exhibition of the game as it should be played. Clever forward work, in which there was an equal distribution, prevailed; and, supplemented by most reliable defence it was passing strange that further scoring was not forthcoming. Certainly there were at least two distinct openings where goals should have accrued in the second portion of play, while against this may be recorded the inability of the home side to profit from a penalty kick, and to take a fairly easy chance of scoring in the closing stages of the game. However, even to the most ordinary observer of the game, there could be no denying the fact that Everton were the superior side, and fully deserved two points. Everton’s success was undoubtedly due to the clear understanding which existed between the half backs and forwards. Taylor gave an exhibition of centre half play that was well nigh perfect. Not once throughout the ninety minutes did a ball from his foot go to an opponent, and so accurate and precise were his passes that the inside forwards were given every opportunity of displaying their ability. Young, Settle and McLoughlin were kept busily employed, and they gave an exhibition of inside forward play that could scarcely have been excelled. Young put plenty of dash into his play, and was unfortunate in not scoring. Settle played one of his best games, and in conjunction with Hardman gave the home defenders considerable trouble. McLoughlin improved as the game progressed and the necessary polish which is bound to come with further experience in the League team should establish his claims for a permanent position, Sharp was not a success for he failed repeatedly to control the ball and to make use of comparatively easy chances of scoring. The half back line was a tower of strength. Apart from Taylor’s magnificent display, the work of Abbott and Makepeace left nothing to be desired. The former showed all his old resource against his former clubmates, and on more than one occasion his shooting was but a trifle faulty. He certainly had a had in Everton’s second goal, as the ball from his foot rebounded from the crossbar to Taylor, who promptly put it through. Makepeace has come on by leaps and bounds and the line as at present constituted should certainly not be disturbed. There was scarcely a faulty movement noticeable, and the pretty triangular passing with the forwards simply bewildered the home defenders. Coming to the back, both Balmer and Crelley quite maintained their reputation as a pair of sound reliable defenders. Their tinkling was invariably clean and their kicking powerful. In the early portion of the game especially they came out of somewhat awkward positions with a little luck, but all the same none that followed the play could come to any other conclusion than that their exhibition reached a standard well above the average. Roose kept a good goal, as also did his vis-à-vis Robinson, who kept out several fine shots in the latter portion of the first half Stokes and Hartnell were a pair of sturdy and skilful defenders, as no doubt Sharp and Hardman will testify; while the half-backs, though not so effective as the opposing trio, played a good game throughout. Beer missed a penalty kick, but otherwise did well; and at the other end of the line Dougherty had much to do with Sharp’s ineffectiveness. The forwards during the earlier proceedings gave one the impression of being able to carry all before them, but after the visiting halves had found their feet they were given very little quarter. Athersmith was given a trial at outside right but he was not a success though it must be admitted that towards the close of the game he found openings for his confreres that ought to have been turned to account.

EVERTON’S TRIUMPH
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 19 December 1904
THE HEATH’S DISAPPOINTING PERFORMANCE
WEAK HALF-BACKS
By W. McGregor
SMALL HEATH 1 EVERTON 2
I looked forward to the meeting of Small Heath and Everton as liking to produce one of the best, if not the best, games at Coventry-road this season. And in the first quarter of an hour it looked as though the hope would be fulfilled, for during that period we had really enthusiastic football. if anything the Heath had slightly the better of matters. A change in the state of affairs occurred after Makepeace had converted the penalty given against Wigmore. From this time Everton moved with greater spirit; they were a winning side. In the last few minutes the Heath made a tremendous rally, and probably had they taken advantage of the chances which came their way they might have equalised. The failure of Beer to turn to account the penalty awarded against Balmer for bringing down Wilcox made a vast difference to the Heath. But for this bungling we might have been spared the pain of recording the Heath’s second home defeat of the season. On the whole, Everton thoroughly merited their 2 goals to 1 victory. The defeat of the home team was mainly due to the weakness of the half-backs. For once in a way Dougherty was not up to concert pitch, neither was Wigmore. Beer was the best of the three, but even he was not in his happiest mood.
PLAYERS CRITICSED
Robinson had some difficult shots to negotiate, and did his duty extremely well. In consequence of the weakness of the half-backs the backs had a tremendous amount of work, and came out of the ordeal with much credit. They might, however, have cleared more strongly. This is a prevailing fault with all Midland backs. Unlike their Lancashire compeers, when pressed they hesitate to put into touch or concede a corner. Stokes was in great form, and showed good judgement; Hartwell showed signs of distress in the closing stages. The forwards were not in their best form, Wilcox was the most consistent. Field did not get in his customary useful runs and centres as he is wont. Jones and Green were always triers; but the Everton defence was too strong for the whole line. Athersmith was a long time in getting into form; towards the end he got in some real beauties. On the winning side Roose was very smart. Crelley and Balmer are very similar in appearance and in style of play, and both cleared remarkably well. If any single man in the half-back line deserved special praise it was Taylor, who played a typical Scotch game. Of the forwards, Young, the pivot, rendered a good account of himself. Settle was very clever, and fed his partner, Hardman, with rare judgement. The latter made very use of his opportunities. He was very speedy, and centred accurately. The other wing was not so serviceable. McLoughlin, a young Scotch player, lacked the finer points of the game. Sharp was the weakest of the line. Like Athersmith, he did not always get in his centres.

EVERTON MAKING STRIDES FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP
Liverpool Echo - Monday 19 December 1904
By Bee
One looked forward to the Everton match as likely to produce one of the best if not the best game of the season. And in the first quarter of an hour it looked as though the hope would be fulfilled, for during that period enthusiastic football was the order. If anything the Heath had slightly the better of matters. A change in the state of affairs occurred after Makepeace had converted the penalty given against Wigmore. By the way, let me remind readers of the suggestion that this player should be entrusted with a penalty. Everton then moved with greater spirit; they were a winning side. In the last few minutes the Heath made a tremendous rally. The failure of Beer to turn to account the penalty awarded against Balmer for bringing down Wilcox made a vast difference to the Heath. Everton thoroughly merited their 2 goals to 1 victory. The defeat of the home team was mainly due to the weakness of the half backs. The game was checkful of incident, and productive of some brilliant work on the part of Everton. More particularly was this apparent during the period of Everton’s supremacy. From stem to stern they were a well-meaning and tidy side, full of zeal and understanding. The forwards were admirably led by Young; the half backs displayed fine points in tackling, supporting their forwards and shielding their defence. Taylor was masterly, the backs were taut and trim, and Roose was full of confidence.

TRAINS TO MATCH
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Tuesday 20 December 1904
The Cheshire Lines Railway announce that they will issue Cheap excursion tickets from Manchester (Central) to Liverpool (Central) convenient intervals from 8 50 a.m. to 2 50 p.m. on Saturday next. Those supporters of Manchester City who are desirous witnessing the match between the latter team and Everton at Goodison Park that day are thus afforded excellent facilities for making the Journey

GOSSIP FROM ALL QUARTERS ABOUT PLAYERS AND OFFICIALS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 20 December 1904
By Bee
People down Midland way are very sore about Everton being awarded a penalty on Saturday. They let Referee Lewis know it viciously, too. ‘Tis human nature, but very objectionable. Taylor has twice scored for Everton, Abbott thrice, and Makepeace once. Young has eleven times netted the ball, but two were recorded in the fog at Woolwich. As the Arsenal continue to strengthen their ranks, it will not be so hopeful an outlook for Everton on the occasion of the replay.

NORTHERN NOMADS v OLD POSSALLIANS
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 21 December 1904
At Goodison Park yesterday afternoon, in misty weather, before a meagre attendance. The Nomads won the toss. Edwards kicking off on behalf of the Rossallians, who at the outset pressed, but good defence was shown by Houghton and Horspool, and the Old Boys were forced to retire. The Nomads then took up the running, and by good forward play got to the front of Beardsley’s charge, and for hands within the twelve yards’ line they were awarded a penalty kick, which was taken by Gaukrodger, who made no mistake, and scored five minutes from the start. Give-and-take play followed for some time, after which Greenwood essayed to augment the Nomads’ score, but his effort went wide. A free kick in favour of the Rossallians relieved the pressure, and the old Boys got nicely going, but were pulled up by Vickers, play being removed to the Old Rossallians goalmouth. After Bearsley had saved a capital shot from Lloyd-Edwards, Ashworth lowered the Rossallians colours with a good shot. From the centre the Old Boys got away on the left, and got close in, Bentley striking the upright with a swift shot. The Nomads again pressed, and Lloyd-Edwards put on a third point.
Half-time; Northern Nomads 3 goals, Old Rossalians nil.
Soon after resuming Carrington made a good run, but shot against the side netting. At the other end Beardsley saved from Greenwood, but soon afterwards Lloyd-Edwards converted a centre from the right wing into a neat fourth goal. The Old Boys improved after this reverse, and Carrington called upon Jowett with a high shot. A couple of corners followed, from which the Nomads goal had some narrow escapes. Jowett saved finely from Bryning and H. Beardsley, while Horspool defended well. The Old Rossallians were at length beaten back, and the Nomads pressed for some time, but Beardsley, Morgan, and Burgess defended stoutly.
Result; Northern Nomads 4 goals, Old Rossallians nil.

MANCHESTER CITY RESERVE v  EVERTON RESERVE
Manchester Evening News - Thursday 22 December 1904
The directors of the Everton club have chosen the following to play in this match on the City ground on Saturday;-
Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Ritchie, half-backs; McAdam, Rankin, Roberts, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.
Everton are playing two of their latest captures in this game, Ritchie, a local half-back, who is looked upon as a capture, and Evans, who has been brough out of the Army, and who is very speedy.

EVERTON HAVE SOME STERN STRUGGLES TO GO THROUGH
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 22 December 1904
By Bee
On Saturday, Manchester City, the Cup-holders and creators of the sensation of the season, visit Goodison Park, and when Referee J.T. Howcroft has the men lined up at 2.15 there will doubtless be the biggest crowd of the present season in attendance and Meredith will have recollections that at home he lost to Everton by 3 goals to 1, and away by a goal to nil last season, and therefore has something to wipe off a dirty slate. No seats have been advertised, as reported, and there will be ample room in the best parts of the ground for spectators. The team chosen is the same as last week.
Tom Booth is progressing splendidly now, yet it is deemed advisable to let him have a little further ball practice before introducing him into the team. The members of the team are doing extra training this week in view of the important contests, and they have been playing golf out at Leasowe Hills, while long walks have been indulged in. Tom Booth is the billiard champion of the club, and Kitchen the best “golfer.”
The first team go to Stafford on Sunday, and travel on to Wolverhampton on Monday morning, meeting the Wanderers, whom they have already accounted for at home by two goals to one. Baddeley has returned to the Wolves’ defence, and all know what that means. Last season’s encounter on Molineux grounds ended in each club taking one point (2-2), and Everton will do well to repeat their performance, although after their excellent display of last week against the Heath, one looks to them to win outright.
These are the Everton Christmas matches
FIRST TEAM
Saturday-Manchester City, home
Monday- Wolverhampton, away
Tuesday- Derby County, away
December 31- Notts County, home
RESERVE TEAM
Saturday -City Reserve away
Monday- Manchester United home
Saturday- Rossendale United, away

EVERTON
Lichfield Mercury - Friday 23 December 1904
One of the Everton players writes:—"Watch Everton for the League Championship." The injunction shall faithfully obeyed. Everton are certainly travelling in that direction, and had their match with Woolwich Arsenal been completed they would at the present time rank second instead of third. The Goodison Park eleven had the honour of beating Small Heath at home —l. The "Heathens" have not had suck an experience since September 10, when Notts, of all teams, performed precisely the same feat at Coventry-road. Everton were strongest where Small Heath were weakest, half-back —and both the visitors' goals came from the middle men. The home team made spirited and sustained effort to draw level, especially in the closing stages, but Roose and Fate proved too strong combine.

THE EVERTON HALVES.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 24 December 1904
The story of Everton’s fine victory over Small Heath at Coventry-road, where no visiting club had won since the second Saturday in the season, does not need re-telling, but there were points in the which suggests reference to the strength of the Everton half-backs in the matter of shooting. The two goals which the Toffees scored were obtained by halves. When a penalty was given a half-back. Makepeace, was chosen take it—a tribute to his marksmanship and coolness, considering that such forwards as Settle and Sharp were in the team—and he justified the selection by whipping the ball in the net. In the other point Makepeace’s two colleagues in the intermediate line had a hand. Abbott struck the bar with a rasping shot, and the ball rebounded to Taylor, who put through. Is there another team in the country with three such shots in the middle line? Abbott's lightning drives are known throughout the circles of the League : Taylor was a rare shot when forward, and retains his skill; while Makepeace is also very dangerous. In shooting the line is probably even stronger than in the days of Wolstenholmes, Booth, and Abbott combination.

TEAM ARRANGEMENTS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 24 December 1904
Everton v Manchester City
League Match at Goodison Park, kick-off 2.15
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer, and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Manchester City Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Manchester .
Everton- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and Ritchie, half-backs; McAdam, Rankin, Roberts, Dilly and Evans, forwards.

EVERTON v  MANCHESTER CITY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 24 December 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
A CLEAN SHEET AT HALF-TIME
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
The fog-fiend yesterday darkened the waters and reduced to impotency the mighty engines of the ocean liners, related to-day, and, unable to resist the blandishment of football called off his myrmidons, and the national game was conducted under favourable conditions, which yesterday seemed well nigh impossible. The great achievement of Manchester City last season has, so far, been maintained, and brilliant performances, which have led to the City being amongst the most popular of the clubs meeting Goodison Park. So far only one point separates the City from Everton, and victory to-day would put the Mancunians well in the running for the championship. With such issues at stake, the spectators turned up in large numbers, and sanguine of a thoroughly scientific exhibition leavened with an undercurrent of the fiercest determination. The teams were;-
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and hardman, forwards.
Manchester City.- Hillman, goal; McMahon and Burgess, backs; Frost. Hynds, and Moffatt, half-backs; Meredith, Pearson, Gillespie, Turnbull, and Booth, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.T. Howcroft.
There was about 12,000 spectators on the ground when Everton started with ten men, owing to Roose’s non-arrived, Crelley meanwhile playing in goal. Soon after the start the home left became very busy, and pressed down towards the goal. Hardman put the ball in the centre and Young, McLoughlin, and Settle each had a possible chance of dashing in, but the ball was put wide of the mark. A little later on Sharp fastened on the leather and simply waltzed round Burgess and then sent in a fine dropping shot which Hillman only got rid of with difficulty. Frost followed with some pretty but ineffective work for Manchester, the home team getting in their stride again and gradually making their way towards Hillman, Young, however, failing to take a pass from Hardman at the last moment. Although so heavily handicapped Everton were putting in splendid work. A fair effort by Sharp, McLoughlin and Young promised success, but a nippy move by Burgess broke up the combination. Just at this time Scott appeared amidst ringing cheers, and assumed the custodianship. Everton still attacked with great spirit, but the City backs withstood the pressure well. Booth and Turnbull made a brave effort to break ground, but Balmer easily upset their designs. Then Gillespie got away with rare dash, but was smartly potted by Abbott, Sharp next took possession, and went off with his usual smartness. Young took his centre in a good position, but after steadying himself for a good drive at goal, he only managed to bang the ball on to McMahon, and a capital opening was thus lost. A very spicy bit of work by Makepeace, Young, and Sharp enabled McLoughlin to trouble Hillman, after which the ball went to Booth, and Manchester attacked on the left. When the visitors became dangerous Crelley came to the rescue, and Taylor passed up to his left, Hardman and Little passing nicely into the City quarters, where McLoughlin and McMahon came to loggerheads. Another dangerous move by Booth and Turnbull was broken up by Balmer, and Crelley replied to a dash by Pearson. Hynds sent to his right, but Crelley stood in the way, and then Taylor and McMahon had a duel at long distance. Eventually Young captured the ball and passed out to Sharp, who was unable to keep his feet, and was very easily dispossessed by Burgess. Although the ground was extremely slippery the game was very fast, and the forward movements full of life and interest, but no very determined attack had yet been made on either of the goals. After a capital bit of work on the left wing Settle received a pretty centre, but he was a “bit too eager,” and just missed heading through. The pressure of Everton was so stiff that the City had to concede a couple of corners in rapid succession. The City left soon took up the running, and took the ball clean up to Balmer, who was, however, perfectly cool, and robbed Turnbull very neatly indeed. The Everton right wing were put in possession, and Sharp rapidly transferred to the centre, where, however, Young was very carefully covered, and could not find an opening, and when at last a chance came he “skied the leather.” Following the kick out the City left dashed down, and claimed a corner, which being very poorly placed, caused no anxiety to the home side. McMahon quickly had the ball back in front of the Everton goal, on which a prolonged attack was made. Booth kept slipping in and popping the ball in front, but no one appeared to seize an opportunity until at last Gillespie got in a weak drive, which Scott had no difficulty in stopping. Some heated passages followed in the centre of the field, after which Settle had a weak kick at goal, and McLoughlin, Sharp, and Settle followed with a combined move which promised success. However, the spectators were doomed for the move, like many other ones, ended weakly indeed and Pearson came up their wing very smartly, the inside man was signalled offside, but nevertheless he wound up with a very fine effort, to which Scott responded in gallant style, and effected an admirable save. The City now exerted considerable pressure, but Turnbull put the ball out of bounds, and the throw-in led to an advance down the Everton left, from whom Young took possession, only to find the City backs were waiting for him. However, on the other side, Hardman sent in a beauty, which Hillman fisted out with great energy. Although the forward work on both sides was subtle and full of method, the halves and backs were enabled to hold their own owing to the icy surface of the turf. A very fine bit of passing by Booth, Turnbull, and Gillespie was then shown. The two outside men placed Balmer in a slight knot, and when the ball went to Gillespie again it appeared as though he had nothing to do but amble through and score. Suddenly, however, Crelley loomed up large, and in another instant Sharp literally flying down his wing, and although closed in upon by Burgess, he managed to get in a ground shot which missed by inches. After a battle in the centre the City men got in front of the home goal, and Turnbull gave Scott a rare handful, after which Pearson, with a long shot, nearly caught the Everton goalkeeper napping. Both saves were grandly made and immensely cheered. Half-time score; Everton nil, Manchester City nil.
EVERTON START BADLY
AN ICE-BOUND GROUND
FRUITLESS FORWARD WORK
MANCHESTER STRONG DEFENCE
When the teams changed ends there would be 20,000 spectators present. Lord Stanley and a party from Knowsley, occupied seats in the directors’ gallery. Gillespie re-start, and at this period the fog was threatening to come back and put an end to the proceedings. Young got possession, and ran down the centre, afterwards passed out to Sharp, who managed to get in a very fine centre, but at the finish Burgess proved master of the situation. There was then a lull in the game, which was ultimately livened up by a tremendous shot from Abbott, which compelled Hillman to put in all he knew. This was followed by a big bully in front of the Manchester goal, but this ended in nothing. A long pass by Settle missed fire, but it was well followed up, and a corner forced, from which Settle made a brave but futile effort to get past Hillman. Then followed exchanges in midfield, and this soon gave place to ab advance on the Everton right, but it was successfully resisted. Crelly put the leather back again, and sharp exchanges took place in front of Hillman, but Everton could not get past the City custodian, although Young almost did the trick with a very teasy shot, only a few inches wide.
Final Result. Everton nil, Manchester City nil

MANCHESTER CITY v EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 24 December 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV A
At Hyde-road. The fog had cleared, and before 3,000 people the visitors kicked off, and soon became dangerous, Edmondson, the City custodian having to save marvellously, and a moment later Rankin beat the goalkeeper and scored the first point for Everton. Holmes was conspicuous soon afterwards. Whittaker scored near the interval for the City, Kitchen having no chance. Half-time;- Everton 1 goal, City 1.
Final- Manchester City Reserve 1, Everton Combination 1

POINTS SHARED AT ARDWICK
Athletic News - Monday 26 December 1904
The reserve teams of Manchester City and Everton made a draw at Hyde-road just as their seniors did at Goodison Park, but the score was 1-1 at Ardwick.  There was an attendance of 4,000.  After a minute’s play Rankin beat Edmondson with a good shot.  The “Citizens” had however, the best of the game until the interval, and Whittaker equalized.  The City men had the greater part of the play for the remainder of the game, both forwards and backs showing their best form, though they could not secure the winning goal.  Whittaker was carried off the field ten minutes from the finish. 

CHRISTMAS DRAW AT EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 26 December 1904
By Tityrus
There was Christmas rime on the grass and there was Christmas chill in the foggy atmosphere, but there was no Christmas cheer at Goodison Park for a goal. Some 20,000 hardy folks, laughing and jeering at the descending mercury in the thermometer, went to the enclosure of Everton prepared to exercise their lungs and risk a doctor’s bill for every goal worthy of a vocal salvo. But there were no goals, and so Mr. “Tea” Maley returned to Manchester with a welcome bonbon in his kit-bag, and Mr. Cuff locked up the other point in the safe along with the filthy lucre which Sir William Arrol, M.P., says the British public ought to put into the Savings Bank instead of into the coffers of the football clubs. And if they did they might be a few sixpences the richer when they gang awa’ but what an awful’ lot o’ fun they would lose. If Sir William Arrol will tell us what life would be like without fun and football we shall then know the delectation of being misers. I shall refuse to describe this match. It may be a breach of duty, but I am incited thereto by the fact that the players could not penetrate the breach. There was a mild flutter of excitement in the Everton camp when the amateur goalkeeper, L. R. Roose did not materialize. I suspect that the fog-fiend held him spell-bound in the cosy corner of a railway carriage somewhere ’twixt London and Liverpool, Great Scott! Where was he? I mean Scott, the Irish international custodian. Happily, he had recovered from his damaged shoulder at Owlerton, and he had shaken off the effects of a chill. He was discovered, clad in a blue jersey and sent on the field eight minutes after the commencement. During this interval Everton had the audacity play Manchester City with ten men. Having seen Walter Abbott in the monkey-house at Owlerton, they gave Crelley a pair of gloves and put him in the cage with Balmer playing the one back game. When Scott was rescued from hibernating as a mere passive register Crelley handed over the bel, and the gloves—an undefeated champion, because nobody had seriously challenged him. I should not like to say that Crelley is not the finest goalkeeper who never stopped a shot. But I must see him tested by shots like Scott had. Not that Scott had all the game of fisticuffs to himself. Hillman proved that he could hit out of guard with his right. It was just well that Hillman spanked the ball. Had he missed his object and struck another player—well, I guess, it would have been bad for that wight. He would have curled up on the rime and bidden farewell to “footer” for a time. But as I have said I will not be tempted into a description of this game. In the first place it was hard to see it. One bad to penetrate a grey veil every moment, and in the second half the players came like shadows, and so departed.  It was just as well that no goals were scored, because we reporters might have been so befogged that we should have given eleven different men as scoring. One never knows the effects of fog at Christmas time. Don’t run away with the idea that the players could not see the goals owing to the creamy condition of the circumambient ether. The posts stood out pale, as gibbets, but either the efforts of the forwards were futile or the valorous deeds of the defenders discounted the strictly honourable intentions of the attackers.  And so the poor dogs had none.  And we had no Christmas cheer.  The prophets and the astrologers had told us to watch for a great display of shooting stars in the constellations of Everton.  But Sandy Young can shoot four goals against some teams, and Sandy Turnbull other four against Derby County-what boots these “Sandies” must have – but the prophets and the astrologers were magnolia scented lairs on this occasion.  There were no shooting stars.  And there was, I repeat, no Christmas cheer at Everton.  But the battle was boisterous, and the policy of masterly inaccuracy enabled each to say that Jock Taylor was as good as his master, and that Sandy Turnbull was as fine an artist as Sandy Young.  Bless them! They shared the spoils, and writing as I am on Christmas Eve I decline to say that either side had bad fortune.  There were plenty of “if’s and Buts” in the game.  But the teams honorably divided the prize, and I shall always say that one was as good as the other and a fine slight better.  But I will not say which was the better side.  In truth Manchester City had the satisfaction of carefully stowing away that point in Mr. “Tea” Maley’s bag, and they never had this luck last season, when Everton, the drizzling and the dashing, were their adversaries.   But I should like to say a few words as to the players.  I took some hazy snap-shots.  The Everton forwards were the better balanced five, even without the wizard McDermott.  To leave him out and still garner points shows the strength of Everton.  Young is a versatile quick-footed centre.  An artist at hooking the ball from his opponents, and from one foot to the other, he did everything well except get goals.  He had his opportunities but dalliance is neither sweet nor paying at “footer.”  The most industrious man was Settle, who is keeping up a rare game this season, but it seemed to me as if McLoughlin is like Christmas pudding, rather overrated, but he is not without blue fire, and he should be a great player by the time that Santa Claus next comes along with his toys.  The outside men were frisky, but Hardman was more aggressive than Sharp.  Both men have pace and command of the ball, but Sharp was lacking in those finishing touches which have delighted me.  His parting shots, were feeble and at times he passed to Young when he should have persevered on his own.  With nothing like so much of the play, I have seen Sharp responsible for three goals in a match.  Nevertheless Sharp is always interesting and gentlemanly.  Hardman is a hare, but not so timid as that squealing furry creature.  Indeed, he is all whip-cord and wire and fortitude. The Blackpool boy fears no back –and he is the best forward on his side.  Of the middlemen Taylor was an irresistible intervener and a royal purveyor.  Tom Booth has been training three weeks, and is coming along nicely now, but Taylor is a toiler and an artist.  He was flanked by good men, even though Makepeace had more than he could master.  Of the Everton defence I have nothing but words of praise, for the backs were strong and Scott was invincible.  It was lucky for Everton that Scott was toward and eager for the fray.  Now let me wish frank Booth the compliments of the season-and- many such matches as he played at Goodison Park.  This Hyde youth is weekly developing and if there be a better outside left in these isles I am anxious to see him.  Booth was altogether too fast for Makepeace and Balmer.  Rarely did he end a run with an indifferent centre.  At times in the second half he waged war by himself, and was very dangerous, but it is not well to be too individual in attack.  Nevertheless, Booth was the most brilliant forward on the field, and Turnbull knows how to swish the ball out for his long raking stride.  The right wing was not nearly so strong as usual, for George Livingstone, with a bad cold, was not able to play.  Pearson was his understudy, and acquitted himself well, but he is not a Livingstone.  There are few to be found, Meredith occasionally scintillated in the fog, but Booth was the hero of the hour- and a half.  Although Frost –the day should have suited him –was a power, especially in defence near goal when danger was very nigh, the greatest force at half-back was Hynds.  As breaker-up and initiator Hynds was simply splendid.  The achievements of McMahon and Burgess at back did not suffer by comparison with any work accomplished by any players.  Possibly John McMahon was always inclined to move any obstruction as well as the ball, but he invariably plays a determined and dashing game against Everton.  Burgess was serviceable and the crowd chaffed him when he kicked out as time was advancing.  And pray, why not?  He wanted to pack that point in “Tea” Maley’s bag.  He helped, and Balmer would have been equally justified in doing the same thing at Manchester under the same circumstances.  “God rest ye, merry gentlemen” until after the meridian of Boxing Day.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Manchester City; Hillman; McMahon, Burgess; Frost, Hynds, Moffatt; Merediths, Pearson, Gillespie, Turnbull, and Booth.  Referee; Mr. J.T. Howcroft, Bolton. 

POINTLESS DRAW AT EVEBTON.
London Daily News - Monday 26 December 1904
Everton and Manchester City met on a frost-bound ground at Goodison Park. Livingston wan absent from the City ranks, and for the first ten minutes Everton were without their regular goalkeeper, Scott the end of that time putting in a tardy appearance. Play in the first half was very fast, despite the fog and the slippery nature of the turf. Everton were seen to more advantage than their opponents, but neither side scored before the interval. The fog became worse after change of ends. Evert were dangerous on several occasions, but their shooting was weak, and the game ended In draw with nothing scored.

EVERTON 0 MANCHESTER CITY 0
December 26 1904. The Liverpool Courier
HARD GAME.
Everton failed to repeat last season's performance against Manchester City. Then the verdict was one goal to nil, against the City; last Saturday neither side could score, so that naturally the points were divided. It was a hard fought game in which plenty of good football was exhibited up to a certain point. From forwards of the standard of those engaged the finishing touches for the most part did not reach expectation. This was particularly the case with the Everton vanguard who, can hardly be said to have occasioned much anxiety to the burly Hillman and old Everton custodian. In the second half the fog was so thick that from the press box it was difficult to follow with accuracy the movements of the players especially on the far side of the field. This much is certain that Everton enjoyed more of the play than their opponents. It was entirely to a failure to utilise reasonable opportunities which led to the City men having the satisfaction of taking as valuable point.
WITHOUT A GOALKEEPER
It was certainly somewhat unique to find the home team starting the game with only ten players. L.R.Roose, no doubt owing to the fog, failed to reach the ground in time, and the match had to be started before Scott could don his football attire. The consequence was that Crelly went into goal for about ten minutes. Curiously enough during this period Everton were in an aggressive mood, so much so that Crelly's unaccustomed position was pretty much a sinecure. Still events might have turned otherwise and then there might have been something said of a rather severe character. Considering the hard and slippery ground, the character of the play was such as to afford satisfaction to the spectators except in the all-important matter of goals. However, a game in which not a single goal is scored is generally disappointing. This unquestionably applied to Saturday's contest. There were many fine bits of play and skilful manipulation of the ball, but they were confined to the open. In a word, the shooting was decidently off colour. With the chances which came their way the Everton attack ought to have made victory assured. They deserved it and it was exasperating to the onlookers to note the frequency with which the ball would be worked down to the City goal and then sent anywhere but in the direction of Hillman. At the same time there was no lack of effort on either side, and considering that fog rather detracted from the interest taken in the second half it was perhaps just as well that the points were divided.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS
The only fault that can be found with the home forwards was as will be gathered their weakness in front of goal. Young distributed the play nicely and put in many neat touches of his own, but he had evidently discarded his shooting boots. Hardman and Settle constituted the better wing, the former in particularly playing plucky and sterling game. McLoughlin was a hard worker without being showy and Sharp, though brilliant occasionally was not so successfully as usual. In the half-back line Abbott was the conspicuous figure, and some of the attempts at scoring might have inspired his colleagues in front of him. Both Taylor and Makepeace were good, though the latter had a tough customer to deal with in Booth, who was about the best forward on the field. Balmer and Crelly were a resourceful pair of backs, the former being in a happier mood than for some time past at Goodison-park. Scott in goal was equal to all that came his way, but Hillman had not many opportunities of displaying his skill. Against Abbott the great Meredith was not much in evidence this probably being due to the temporary less of his partner Livingstone, for whom Pearson was subtended. Booth stood head and shoulders about his colleagues in the front line, while Hyunds at centre half was always prominent. McMahon and Burgess being a bustling though not too artistic pair of backs. Teams: - Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McLoughlin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Manchester City: - Hillman, goal, McMahon, and Burgess, backs, Frost, Hyunds, and Moffatt, half-backs Meredith, Pearson Gillespie, Turnbull, and Booth, forwards.

MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
December 26, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 17)
Everton and Manchester City Reserves, like their seniors played a drawn game, the score being one goal each. Everton started in promising fashion, and early on Rankin scored a fine goal, but afterwards play generally favoured the City, and Everton owed their point to capital defence set up by Kitchen, Balmer and Wildman, particularly the custodian. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs, Hanlin Chadwick, and Ritchie, half-backs, McAdams, Rankin Roberts, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 26 December 1904
Stubbornly contested rather than brilliantly fought was the League engagement between Everton and Manchester City at Goodison Park, and for the first time in their career the Mancestrians gained a point on this enclosure. Considering the conditions that prevailed, which were totally unsuitable to a correct exposition of football, the surface being slippery and over hung in the second half by a gradually thickening mist, a division of the honours was perhaps the most satisfactory termination to the tussle. Apart from this, however, had the Everton forwards accepted the chances which came their way, they would have made the issue safe prior to the interval, but it was seldom that a decent shot was levelled at Hillman. Neither was Scott unduly troubled, though the few shots he had to repel were more difficult than those which caused the intervention of his vis-à-vis. There was little to choose beaten the teams, and it was unfortunate that the clubs could not have opposed each other on a yielding turf and under more congenial surroundings.
Taken as a body, the Everton forwards were the superior set, and, as already stated, their only weakness was in front of the goalposts. Hardman was the shining light in the majority of the home advances, for he frequently whipped round Frost, and even the redoubtable McMahon could not check the impetuous ardour of the clever extreme left winger. He did manage to net the ball near the finish of the game, but for some reason the point was disallowed. Only those near the goalposts could see what occurred, for the fog at this time had become more pronounced. Settle gave a skilful exhibition, his passing being exceptionally accurate and effective, and it was due to his efforts that Hardman was presented with so many openings, though it must perforce be admitted that the latter made exceedingly fine use of whatever did come out to him. Young was responsible for some delightful bits of work, and frequently worked himself into a favourable position, only to finish feebly or wide of the desired haven. He distributed the play in artistic fashion, and his passes rarely went astray. McLoughlin was not often in evidence, and his weakness seems to be in trapping the ball and a lack of celerity in disposing of it. On the other hand, he was always well in front when danger threatened, and the best shot on his side came from his foot. Sharp was none too prominent, but fared better after the interval than in the opening half, though he did not finish his efforts with that efficiently that characterises his play when seen at his best. It is quite time the right wing made its presence more decisively felt in the Everton attack. In the half back line, Abbott was the most conspicuous figure, and he fairly bottled up the City right, the result being that the famous Meredith was rarely in evidence. No doubt the Welshman missed his usual partner, Livingstone, who at the last moment had to cry off owing to a severe cold, but n Abbott’s form as shown in this match it would have taken a wonderful wing to have baffled him. Taylor got through a tremendous amount of work and was especially aggressive when within shooting range. He never gave Gillespie a chance, and little was seen of the City’s plodding centre. Makepeace had a big task on hand, for Turnbull and Booth were at their best, and zealous as the Everton right half-back was he had to admit the superiority of his opponents on several occasions. Balmer and Crelley defended grandly, and were never at fault in dealing with what required their attention. Scott kept goal in place of Roose, who on his journey from London to take part in the match was fog-bound near Runcorn, and only arrived after the Irishman had take up the position. He brought off some smart saves, and even the Welsh international could not have improved upon his performance.
From what has been previously mentioned, it will be gathered that the Manchester forwards were none too incisive in their movements, and every danger in their advances came from the left wing. Booth is a fine outside player, and his race turn of speed and accurate centres were quite the feature of the City’s game. He owed a great deal to the manner in which he was plied by Turnbull, and between the respective left wings there was little to choose, and the methods adopted in each instance were almost peculiar. The presence of Livingstone would no doubt have strengthened the Manchester front line, for Pearson failed to nurse Meredith as the old Liverpool and Celtic inside right can so ably achieve. Hynds was the best of the half-backs, amongst whom frost was also very prominent, and further behind McMahon kicked cleanly and, with Burgess, provided an efficient barrier of defence. Hillman was not severely tested, for the shots that came in his direction lacked sting, and with one or two exceptions he was never in difficulties. It was almost impossible to follow the ball in the second half, and it would have been hard luck for either side to have been vanquished. Both teams can play good football, and whenever they meet one may anticipate with a considerable amount of confidence a clever exhibition of football.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 0 EVERTON 3
December 27, 1904. The Liverpool Courier.
McDermott penalty kick, saved by Baddeley
This fixture was decided on Molineux ground, in foggy weather, before a good gathering. The game opened brusque, the Wolves right wing breaking away, but Crelly checked. Everton made a spirited attack, and there was a sharp scrimmage in front of the home goal, nothing resulting. Balmer neatly stopped dangerous work by Bevan and Haywood. A free kick to the homesters gave Smith a good chance, but Balmer popped up and blocked the way. The Wolves forwards were very much alive, and kept the Everton defenders on the alert. Sharp and McDermott made a spirited sprint, the latter ending up with a reckless shot. Ashworth was forced to concede a fruitless corner. The Wanderers continued the attack. Whitehouse dropped a centre in front of goal, but again the Everton backs cleared. A hot struggle took place between Hopkins, Smith and Balmer, close to the visitors goal, but the backs eventually prevented Hopkins running through. Bevin shot over the Everton bar. Two corners were given against the visitors, who packed their goal for safety. Crelly and Balmer were sorely tested, being kept constantly on the more, but helped each other admirably, McDermott was let in, but his shot at goal was poor. Baddeley cleared a long ranger. Bevin made considerable headway towards Roose, but Crelly intercepted him. After the game, had quieted down, Sharp became prominent, but the home custodian was not troubled. The quality of the football fell off, and the ground was somewhat rough. A free kick against the Wanderers enabled Sharp to centre splendidly, but Whitehouse chipped in and averted danger. After Baddeley had easily stopped a long distance shot the Wanderers pressed without result. The Everton vanguard were vigorous, and made sturdy assaults, but their combination should have been better, and their kicking needed cooler judgement. The Wolves played capitally towards the interval, and deserved to score, but could not. Interval, Wanderers nil, Everton nil.
In the second half the combination of the visitors improved. The Everton men set to work in business like fashion, and Hardman and Settle beat Jones, and McDermott getting possession and the other back could come to the rescue, scored the first goal. Everton Everton maintained the pressure, Settle was given a fine chance, but shot inaccurately. At the other end, Roose conceded a corner, in clearing from Heywood. The Wanderers strove hard, but found the opposing halves and backs exceedingly keen. Once it took Whitehouse all he knew to check Hardman until Baddeley came to the rescue. The Everton vanguard were now showing much neatness, and the home backs, had great difficulty in dealing with their tactics. From a throw-in Hopkins headed into Roose's hands. McDermott got away in capital style, but was checked. The game at times lost some of its interest, and on the whole, the play was not so good in this half as in the first. Hardman and Settle made strong attempts to break through the Wolves defence, but the home defenders repelled them. The Wolves left wing made a hot attack, which was broken up by Balmer. Williams spoiled a beautiful bit of passing by Everton. Young scored a second goal for Everton in easy manner. A little later Settle was fouled in the penalty area, McDermott took the Penalty kick , but did not score, (Saved by Baddeley) towards the end, Settle scored an easy third goal. Final Result, Wanderers nil; Everton 3. Everton: - Roose, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly backs, Ashworth, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 MANCHESTER UNITED RESERVES 0
December 27 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 18)
This Lancashire Combination match at Goodison-park in the afternoon attracted a capital gate, there being about 10,000 spectators present. The teams were: - Everton Reserves: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Ritchie half-backs, McAdams Rankin Roberts, Dilly, and Evans, forwards. Manchester United Reserves: - Saunders, goal, Blackstock, and Holden, backs, Griffiths, Fitchett, and Duckworth, half-backs, Cranns, Small, Robertson, Hall, and B.Lyons, forwards. Robertson started for the United, and Everton were first to press, Rankin just missing with a grand shot. The visiting backs did good work during further pressure, the Everton inside men playing cleverly. A free kick enabled the Mancuncians to clear their lines, and the visitors left got away, Wildman having to kick out to avert danger. A corner fell to the United, and Kitchen had to leave his goal to clear, while Hall later shot yards over the bar. The United pressed for some minutes, but the home defence was sound, Chadwick clearing several centres. On one occasion Hall was only a trifle wide with a good shot, Cranns following suit soon afterwards. The home right got going and Blackstock had to pass back to the custodian, for the latter to clear the danger. Roberts had a capital attempt charged down in lucky fashion, while Rankin was fouled when trying to get through. The free kick was cleared and the United attacked. Chadwick getting in the way of a shot from Fitchett. Soon afterwards Kitchen saved a fine long shot from the centre half. After Rankin had been pulled up for off-side, McAdams had a chance, but shot very wide. Lyon at the other end, and was also at fault in his shooting, although soon afterwards he made amends with a fine cross shot, which went over the bar. Rankin called upon Saunders as the result of fine play, while Evans shot wide under difficulties. Roberts missed a good opening from Dilly's corner, but the ball went to McAdams, who shot in well, Saunders clearing. Capital tackling by the Everton halves neutralised several incursions by the United forwards, and following a free kick to Everton, the visitors goal had a very narrow escape. Everton continued to press, and Saunders saved somewhat luckily from Evans. Rankin did splendid work, and Roberts had two shots charged down. Everton pressed to the interval, but could not score. Half-time Everton nil, Manchester United nil.
Soon after resuming Blackstock kicked away, a fine shot from Dilly who was afterwards pulled up by the same player, and in turn, Hanlin and Roberts shot wide. Soon afterwards McAdams made a good dash down, but Duckworth dashed across and conceded a corner from which Chadwick missed scoring by inches. Everton should have had a penalty kicks for hands, but the referee instead gave a free kick to the United. The home side were playing splendid football, and once Evans had hard lines in sending the ball on the wrong side of the post. Everton had all the play, and all the bad luck, and when at last United did get away, they almost scored. Kitchen saving brilliantly from Robertson. Evans put in a grand run, but his centre was cleared, and Rankin was making capital headway, when he was fouled just outside the penalty area. The free kick was placed outside, but a little later Saunders just managed to direct a capital attempt by Rankin round the post. The custodian saved finely from the corner, and conceded an other, but although Everton swarmed round the goal, they could not get the ball into the net. That this stage the Everton could do anything but score. At last after prolonged pressure, Evans scored from a corner, but was hurt, and was lame when he returned, after a few minutes absence. He soon afterwards got past the backs, only to shoot across the goal and outside. The United got away, but were seldom dangerous, and Dilly twice had very hard lines in not scoring, while Saunders saved finely from Rankin. The United defenders were none too gentle in their methods, and after Everton had several free kicks, just outside the penalty area, Holden fouled Dilly close to goal, with the result that Rankin put on a second goal from the penalty kick. The United afterwards played one back, but were easily beaten on the run of the play by two goals, too nil.

WOLVERHAMPTON V EVERTON
Derby Daily Telegraph - Tuesday 27 December 1904
Play at Molineux Ground, in foggy weather, before 10,000 spectators. Play was fast in the early part of the game, the Everton defence giving a fine exhibition. A pretty exposition by the Everton forward quintette almost led to the Wanderers' downfall, but McLoughlin shot wide with an open goal. The Wanderers were a poor lot, and Badderley was given plenty of hard work to get through. Interval; Wanderers nil, Everton nil.
In the second half Everton opened strongly, and McLoughlin getting in a heavy drive from short range, found the corner of the net. Everton outclassed the Wanderers by their superior play in the forward line. The Wanderers improved slightly, but Everton always had their measure. Settle, owing to muddling by the home backs, scored a second goal. Then Baddleley saved a penalty. Settle added a third goal. Result; Everton 3, Wolverhampton 0.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS V EVERTON
Sheffield Evening Telegraph - Tuesday 27 December 1904
At Wolverhampton, in misty weather, before 12,000 people. Both teams were fully represented. The game was very fast from the start. Baddeley had several shots to deal with, but the Wanderers had most of the play, but their shooting was weak, and Roose had little to do. At the interval there was no score. The Everton forwards played brilliantly after the interval, and McLoughlin scored. Then came the first serious outburst by Wolverhampton, but Roose prevented any score. Later on Settle added another goal for Everton, and after Baddeley had saved a penalty kick, the same player again scored. Result Everton 3 goals Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

DERBY COUNTY EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Tuesday 27 December 1904
Fifteen thousand people witnessed this match at Derby this afternoon. The ground was a trifle greasy and the Derby team was a weak one owing to so many of their players being injured. Everton had rather the better of the first half, and after 27 minutes McLoughlin scored a capital goal. Neither side shot very accurately. Half-time; Derby County 0, Everton 1.

EVERTON v  WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 27 December 1904
The recent deterioration in the play of Wolverhampton Wanderers probably affected the gate at the Molineux Grounds, yesterday, for although the morning was bright, and the air crisp, the outside estimate of the crowd was 12,000-not a large attendance for a Boxing Day fixture, with so attractive a side as Everton. The visitors had what slight advantage winning the toss gave them in the opening half, and they played much better football than the Wolves throughout. The hero of the game in the first portion was Baddeley, who gave an exhibition of custodianship equal to international form, and enabled his side to cross over with no arrears to wipe out. The combination of the visiting forwards was delightful to watch, and although Baddley’s superb goalkeeping kept them out up to half-time, it was evident that the form had only to be maintained to the end for Everton to win comfortably. Shots from Hardman, Young, and Settle would have beaten most goalkeepers, and it was little short of miraculous how Baddley managed to keep his charge intact, but the Wanderers custodian rarely fails to gibe of his best when occasion most demands it, and he deserved the lavish applause which greeted his remarkable clearances. The Wolves’ front rank found the Everton halves exceedingly difficult to pass, Abbott being especially successful in his attentions to Bevin and Haywood, who usually make a smart wing. Early in the game, Balmer missed his kick, and nearly let in Bevin. Crelley went to the rescue and from that point the Everton defenders were not overworked. They gave a faultless display in the second half. It was impossible to hold the visitors. McDermott, who had not had the best of luck with his shots before the interval, opened the scoring with a hard drive, which gave Baddley no chance. This drew a spirited reply from the Wolves, in fact it was the smartest piece of work they accomplished during the game, but Roose tipped the ball over the bar. Sharp had the misfortune to overrun the ball after a thrilling run, and Baddeley kicked away from Abbott. A moment later the goalkeeper came triumphantly out of a scrimmage, with McDermott almost on the top of him. The play was practically confined to one end of the field, and Settle put the issue beyond doubt. Still maintaining the pressure, Everton were awarded a penalty, but Baddley gave a further demonstration of his ability, and when he stopped McDermott’s shot a rousing cheer greeted the success. Abbott towered above all the other halves on the field at this stage, but all the members of the line were in good form and showed up in great contrast to the home halves, who constituted the weakest part of the Wanderers’ team. The visitors gave their opponents no quarter, and there was little breathing time for the defenders. Baddeley had another anxious spell, for after repleting several stinging shots, he was beaten by Young, who sent the ball high up into the corner of the net. This second reverse roused the Wanderers again, and Roose had to save from Bevin and Haywood, while Hopkins after cleverly beating Balmer, had the mortification of seeing his final effort miss by inches, and the end came with Everton leading by 3 goals to nil, and attacking as hotly as ever. On this form Everton must have a great chance of winning the League. Williams watched Sharp closely, but the line was always effective notwithstanding. On general play, Taylor was the best of the halves and except for one mistake by Balmer, the backs played a faultless game. Roose, as usual, was safe in goal. Excepting Baddeley, Jones, Williams, and Haywood, the Wanderers have a poor set of men on yesterday’s showing, and unless there is a speedy improvement there are breakers ahead for them.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION DIVISION A 
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 27 December 1904
EVERTON v  MANCHESTER UNITED
Manchester United provided the holiday attraction at Goodison Park yesterday. There were about 5,000 spectators present when Robertson led off for the visitors. The Blues immediately advanced in combined order, and Rankin sent in a beauty within a minute of the start, which unfortunately for the homesters struck the upright. The visitors soon changed the venue, and from a corner Kitchen fisted clear. Play was then centred in the Everton quarter, and despite excellent work on the part of the home defenders the Mancunians refused to be shaken off. After Balmer had neatly frustrated the combined efforts of the visitors’ front rank, the Blues assumed the aggressive, and Dilly and Evans showed good work, the latter’s centre being luckily charged down by Griffiths. After the United had failed to profit from a free kick close in, Roberts sprinted down the line in fine style, only to lose possession when within a few yards of the visitors goal. The Evertonians advanced again, and McAdam, rushing forward, put in a fine effort, which just went the wrong side of the post. Lyons was at fault at the other end when favourably placed. The game continued to be well fought, both sides putting in some excellent work, with the result that a keen and interesting game was witnessed. Roberts was presented with an excellent opening, the leather being sent right across the goalmouth. Roberts miskicked and McAdam’s shot was finely saved by Saunders. Everton now pressed their opponents hard, and Saunders and his backs had a lively time. The visitors custodian, however, very ably dealt with the many difficult shots which were showered upon him from every position of the ground. Towards the interval the visitors’ forwards created a diversion, but it lasted only a few minutes, and then Everton put on double pressure, the visitors’ goal having some miraculous escapes. The interval arrived with no score. Roberts restarted for Everton, and, after the visitors had pressed, the Manchester goal was the scene of operations and McAdams forced a corner, from which Hanlin missed by inches. Keeping up the pressure, the Mancuncians’ citadel was subjected to a terrific bombardment, and fully half a dozen shots missed the mark by inches. The attack was transferred to the other end, and Duckworth sent in a splendid effort, which Kitchen saved in masterly fashion. At the other end, Saunders was applauded for two clever saves, one from the toe of Rankin, which je just tipped outside, and then Hanlin put in a warm handful, which Saunders again treated with good judgement. The Evertonians were not to be denied, and the sustained pressure ended by Evans netting the leather from a corner. Everton were now having all the best of the argument, and Evans being fouled within the penalty area, the referee promptly penalised the aggressors Rankin took the kick, and gave Saunders no chance of saving. The game continued to be keenly fought, the visitors striving manfully to reduce the margin against them, while the Blues were equally determined to keep them at bay. In this they succeeded, and Everton won by 2 goals to nil.

FRIENDLY MATCHES
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 27 December 1904
PRESS V RAILWAYS
Thanks to the generosity of the directors of the Everton Club, the Goodison Park enclosure was placed at the disposal of the committee of the Newsboys’ Charity for the above annual fixture. W.G Wray kicked off on behalf of the Press, who had all the best of the opening stages. The representatives of the Railway eventually got to work in business-like fashion, and L. Smith and his backs had an anxious time. The Press were awarded a free kick close to the Railways goal, but Riley sent yards wide. After the railwaymen had failed to profit from a position adjacent to the Press goal, their opponents forced matters on the right wing, and Wright put in an accurate centre, which Yorby sent over the bar. Woodroofe and Taylor both missed chances for the Railways, and Smith was equally unfortunate at the other end. Another good attempt by Taylor was neatly cleared by I. Smith. Even play was the order for some time, each side attacking in turn. The Press forwards were in good shooting humour, and after Devonport had just missed the desired mark by inches, Yorby hit the crossbar with a beauty. Devonport was nicely under way for Bryning, when he was brought down with the prescribed area. The dreaded penalty followed, but Riley missed the goal altogether with the kick. The remainder of the initial half was evenly contested, both sides missing many chances of opening the account. Half-time; no score.
Resuming the Press attacked strongly, and after good work by Gibbs and Wright, Yorby beat Bryning with a beautify. Good defensive work by Riley alone prevented the Railways from equalising, then the Press assumed the aggressive and for a time had all the beat of the argument. Chiefly aided by Marquis, the Railways pressed, and succeeded in forcing three corners in quick succession, Smith saving on each occasion in clever fashion. The Railway defence was busy to the finish, the Press gaining a clever victory by 1 goal to nil.

EVERTON v  DERBY COUNTY
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 27 December 1904
After the handsome and highly creditable victory over Wolverhampton at Molineux Grounds on Monday, the Everton players were taken to witness the Villa match, and then took the train for Derby, where the evening was quietly spent. Several hundred ardent enthusiasts braved the journey from Liverpool to Derby yesterday morning and they made the sleepy old town ring with their “war cries.” The weather, though fine, was misty and at one period of the morning it looked as though fog might interfere with the game. The keenest interest was evinced in the meeting, and the local supporters of the Rams turned out in great numbers. The Everton directors decided to make four changes in the team from Monday. Thus Scott appeared in place of Roose, Makepeace took Ashworth’s position, Rankin superseded Sharp, and McLoughin figured in the centre position instead of Young, who was rather badly injured. There was a large crowd present when the players lined up as follows;
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, McLoughlin, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Derby County.- Maskery, goal; Ratcliffe, and Morris, backs; Warren, McAllister, and Richards, half backs; Parnell, Bloomer (Captain), Wheatcroft, Fletcher, and Davies, forwards.
It will be seen that there were also several changes in the County team, the most notable absentee being Methven, who hurt his back on Monday. Bloomer lost the toss, and the home centre forward started operations before 15,000 people. The County at once ran down on the right, but Parnell was hampered by Crelley, and could not get in his shot. Everton at once took up the running on the left, and Hardman passing across to McDermott, the latter looked very like scoring, when he was robbed by Morris. A minute later Makepeace put in a grand shot, which was charged down, and then Abbott tried his luck from long range, but the ball passed outside. Following upon this the home forwards made play on the left, and Balmer had to grant a corner. This was capitally placed, and Scott was given a difficult shot to deal with, but he cleared cleverly, and the Evertonians running down on the right, Rankin put outside. A spell of midfield work ensued, but the home side gradually forced their opponents back, and they were aided in their advance by a series of throws-in. Taylor, however, broke up the attack, and Rankin, running down, passed cleverly to McDermott, but the latter was too slow and missed the chance. A second later Settle tried to make amends with a glorious shot, but Maskery was on the alert and cleared well. The Derby forwards them raced off in determined fashion, and Bloomer gave Scott a warm handful, which the Evertonian dealt with. The County men kept up the pressure for some considerable time, and matters looked ominous for Everton when Bloomer was pulled up for offside. It was not long before the visitors again took up the running, Rankin being conspicuous with a fine run down the wing. He centred splendidly, and McLoughlin had an open goal before him when he shot high over the bar. After this play once more ruled in favour of the Derby men, whose forwards worked down in nice combined order, and Davies’s final shot was somewhat luckily charged down by Balmer. The Goodison Park contingent immediately resumed pressure, and McDermott was working his way cleverly through when he was grassed by McAllister. A breakaway by the home right wing ended in Parnell overrunning the ball, and another forward movement by Everton ended in McLoughlin being ruled offside. The visitors’ forwards were showing exceedingly clever and pretty footwork, but they were too dilatory when in front of goal, and thanks to this fault both McDermott and McLoughlin missed grand opportunities of scoring. Taylor tried on one occasion to score on his own account, but he shot yards wide, and then a fine effort by Settle was punted clear by Ratcliffe. At this period the Evertonians were enjoying all the best of the argument, but at length the three inside Derby forwards made ground, and Bloomer put in a rasping shot, which Scott threw clear. End-to-end play followed, neither side holding any particular advantage. At length Everton broke away on the right, but Morris intercepted Rankin, and the ball went outside. The Evertonians, however, persisted in their efforts, and by dint of some beautiful football these at length met with success. Abbott put the ball to McDermott, and the latter, after working through, gave the leather to McLoughlin, who scored with a fine high shot after the game had been in progress rather less than half an hour. Stimulated by this success the Everton men put on greater pressure than ever and the home defence was subjected to a very anxious time. A free kick close in gave the visitors a nice opening, but Abbott’s shot was well cleared. The home right then got going and Crelly and Bloomer coming into violent collision the former was rendered hors de combat for a time. On play restarting Davies and Fletcher made tracks towards Scott’s charge and Fletcher’s final shot was very cleverly intercepted by Balmer. The home side were now asserting themselves and two corners were forced on the left, but they were safely disposed of and Taylor serving up smartly, Hardman raced down, but he was obviously offside when he shot. The homesters once more attacked in dogged fashion, but they found themselves opposed to a stubborn defence. Nevertheless they kept pegging away and a corner was forced off Crelly and was only saved after an exciting struggle in front of Scott. As the interval approached the County made desperate efforts to draw level, but their efforts were very disjointed and the Everton backs were always able to clear. On one occasion, however, both Balmer and Crelley were beaten and Scott had to leave his goal in order to pick up the ball and throw it clear. A corner in Derby’s favour followed a moment later, but this was disposed of and a fine shot by Bloomer just missed the mark.
Half-time; Everton 1, Derby County nil.
The ground was packed to its utmost capacity when play was resumed. The home forwards lost no time in getting to work, and Crelley had to give a corner, but this came to nothing. Everton replied with a pretty forward movement, and McDermott lobbed the ball across to Hardman, but Ratcliffe beat the amateur and punted clear. The visitors who were now playing with great confidence, monopolised the attack for a long time, their work generally being far superior to that of their opponents, but there was the same hesitancy in front of goal, and as a consequence the Derby citadel escaped when its downfall seemed almost certain. The home forwards eventually managed to break away, but there was an entire absence of combination, and with Abbott hanging on to Bloomer, the Derby skipper was rarely permitted to run through on his own account. Once, however, he did manage to nip through the backs and put in a swift ground shot, but was gathered safely and thrown clear. A few moments later Bloomer put in another shot, and Scott holding the ball too long was penalised. Richard took the free kick and playing it nicely, Wheatcroft netted the ball amid terrific cheers. the continuing stages of the game were contested with tremendous keenness. Hardman scored for Everton twenty seconds from time. Result; Everton 2 goals, Derby County 1.

DERBY’S FIRST DEFEAT AT HOME.
London Daily News - Wednesday 28 December 1904
At Derby the home side put but a poor team into the field oppose Everton, several of their players being on the injured list. They held their own for some time, however, when McLoughlin scored a fine goal for Everton. Derby attacked strongly towards the interval but the Everton defence proved very sound. The score at half-time Everton, one Derby County, none. The second half was splendidly contested, and some fine football was shown both sides. Not long after the restart a free kick was given against Scott running with the ball, and from this Wheatcroft headed a equalizing goal. From this point it was a superb struggle, and Hardman getting through in almost the last second gave Everton the victory two goals to one. This is the first defeat Derby County have met with this season their own ground.

DERBY COUNTY v. EVERTON.
Leeds Mercury - Wednesday 28 December 1904
At Derby, in dull but fine weather, before 15,000 spectators. Derby had a poor team out owing to their heavy causality list. They held their own for the best part of half an hour, and then McLoughlin scored a fine goal, for Everton. Derby pressed towards the interval but the Everton defence was sound. Half-time; Everton one goal, Derby County none. The second half was splendidly contested, and some fine football was shown by both teams. The game had not been re-start very long when a free kick was give against Scott for running with the ball, and from this Wheatcroft headed in an equalizing goal. A great game was witnessed from this point, and in the last second Hardman scored giving Everton a lucky victory by two goals to one.

DERBY COUNTY 1 EVERTON 2
December 28, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
A bust Christmas time has fallen to the lot of the Everton players. On Saturday they drew at Goodison Park with Manchester City, but on Monday they brought off a fine victory at Wolverhampton, defeating his Wanderers by three clear goals. Yesterday they hand another difficult task being called upon to face Derby County in the peak capital. At the same time it must be remembered that the County were also engaged on Saturday and Monday, so that the conditions were equal for both teams. Changes were made in both teams, and neither side was at full strength. On the Everton side four changes were made in the team which gained a victory over the Wolves. Scott reappeared in goal, vice Roose, Makepeace resumed his position to the exclusion of Ashworth. Rankin superseded Sharp while McLoughlin appeared at centre owing to Young being on the injured list. The Derby elevens was below full strength, Methven who had but his back at Bury, could not play, and Ratcliffe took his place, while Wheatcroft figured at centre. The teams were as follows :- Derby County:- Maskery goals, Ratcliffe, and Morris backs, Warren, McAllister, and Richards, halfbacks, Parnell, Bloomer, Wheatcroft, Fletcher, and Davies forwards. Everton: - Scott goals, W.Balmer (captain) and Crelly backs, Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, McLoughlin, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Despite the fact that the weather was extremely dull and fog prevailed, there would be about 15,000 people present. At the outset the game went in favour of the home team, who several times worked the ball down without being able to get in a decent shot. Then Rankin raced along his wing, and centred, and immediately afterwards from a miskick by McAllister. Settle sent in a hard low shot, which Maskery cleared. The danger however, was not averted, and several other shots were levelled at Maskery, which tried the County defence severely, Morris then drove the ball well up the field. But the Evertonians returned to the attack. McLoughlin missing a glorious chance, sending the ball wildly over the bar after Ratcliffe had made a bad miskick. The Everton defence after this was given some work to do, and the backs cleverly dealt with a beautiful centre by Davies. Parnell also ran the ball out after he had been well fed by Bloomer. Then Rankin again got in a centre under difficulties which none of his colleagues was in a position to reach. Despite the fact that the ground was slippery, play was fast and vigorous Everton had more of the play than their opponents. A free kick for hands just outside the penalty area was given against McAllister, but was successfully cleared. Another centre by Davies at the other end was not turned to account though Bloomer managed to get to it. The game had been in progress twenty-seven minutes when the ball came to McLoughlin, who was about twenty yards from goal, and with a capital shot he scored Everton's first goal. Maskery having no chance of saving. Play was quieter after this, and Rankin soon distinguished himself by another brilliant centre, which Maskery seized and threw away before McLoughlin could reach him. The game was stopped for a few minutes owing to Crelly being winded when play was resumed Rankin wound up a fine effort by shooting over the bar. Then the ball was taken to the other end, where Fletcher forced a corner. Parnell made a bungling attempt to centre, and a second corner forced by Davies led to a series melee in front of the Everton goal. Once again the masterful tactics of the visiting backs triumphed. Still Derby were now having more of the play, but they were content for the most part with long kicks, which were easily dealt with by the Everton backs. Scott then tackled by Davies, made a circle with the ball in his hands, but through there was an appeal for carrying the ball, it was not entertained. Bloomer sent in a shot just outside the goal post, but this was the last attempt before the interval. Half-time Derby County Nil Everton 1. In the second half the game was splendidly contested, and if anything Derby had the better of it. The Everton defence was subjected in severe pressure, and after twelve minutes Scott was penalised for running with the ball, Richards took the kick, and Wheatcroft heading into the net eqaulised. After this both sides strove hard to supremacy, and amid great excitement Hardman gave Everton the victory in the last minute of the game. Result Derby County 1, Everton 2.

EVERTON v DERBY COUNTY
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 28 December 19
After the handsome and highly creditable victory over Wolverhampton at Molineux Grounds on Monday, the Everton players were taken to witness the Villa match, and then took the train for Derby, where the evening was quietly spent. Several hundred ardent enthusiasts braved the journey from Liverpool to Derby yesterday morning and they made the sleepy old town ring with their “war cries.” The weather, though fine, was misty and at one period of the morning it looked as though fog might interfere with the game. The keenest interest was evinced in the meeting, and the local supporters of the Rams turned out in great numbers. The Everton directors decided to make four changes in the team from Monday. Thus Scott appeared in place of Roose, Makepeace took Ashworth’s position, Rankin superseded Sharp, and McLoughin figured in the centre position instead of Young, who was rather badly injured. There was a large crowd present when the players lined up as follows;
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, McLoughlin, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Derby County.- Maskery, goal; Ratcliffe, and Morris, backs; Warren, McAllister, and Richards, half backs; Parnell, Bloomer (Captain), Wheatcroft, Fletcher, and Davies, forwards.
It will be seen that there were also several changes in the County team, the most notable absentee being Methven, who hurt his back on Monday. Bloomer lost the toss, and the home centre forward started operations before 15,000 people. The County at once ran down on the right, but Parnell was hampered by Crelley, and could not get in his shot. Everton at once took up the running on the left, and Hardman passing across to McDermott, the latter looked very like scoring, when he was robbed by Morris. A minute later Makepeace put in a grand shot, which was charged down, and then Abbott tried his luck from long range, but the ball passed outside. Following upon this the home forwards made play on the left, and Balmer had to grant a corner. This was capitally placed, and Scott was given a difficult shot to deal with, but he cleared cleverly, and the Evertonians running down on the right, Rankin put outside. A spell of midfield work ensued, but the home side gradually forced their opponents back, and they were aided in their advance by a series of throws-in. Taylor, however, broke up the attack, and Rankin, running down, passed cleverly to McDermott, but the latter was too slow and missed the chance. A second later Settle tried to make amends with a glorious shot, but Maskery was on the alert and cleared well. The Derby forwards them raced off in determined fashion, and Bloomer gave Scott a warm handful, which the Evertonian dealt with. The County men kept up the pressure for some considerable time, and matters looked ominous for Everton when Bloomer was pulled up for offside. It was not long before the visitors again took up the running, Rankin being conspicuous with a fine run down the wing. He centred splendidly, and McLoughlin had an open goal before him when he shot high over the bar. After this play once more ruled in favour of the Derby men, whose forwards worked down in nice combined order, and Davies’s final shot was somewhat luckily charged down by Balmer. The Goodison Park contingent immediately resumed pressure, and McDermott was working his way cleverly through when he was grassed by McAllister. A breakaway by the home right wing ended in Parnell overrunning the ball, and another forward movement by Everton ended in McLoughlin being ruled offside. The visitors’ forwards were showing exceedingly clever and pretty footwork, but they were too dilatory when in front of goal, and thanks to this fault both McDermott and McLoughlin missed grand opportunities of scoring. Taylor tried on one occasion to score on his own account, but he shot yards wide, and then a fine effort by Settle was punted clear by Ratcliffe. At this period the Evertonians were enjoying all the best of the argument, but at length the three inside Derby forwards made ground, and Bloomer put in a rasping shot, which Scott threw clear. End-to-end play followed, neither side holding any particular advantage. At length Everton broke away on the right, but Morris intercepted Rankin, and the ball went outside. The Evertonians, however, persisted in their efforts, and by dint of some beautiful football these at length met with success. Abbott put the ball to McDermott, and the latter, after working through, gave the leather to McLoughlin, who scored with a fine high shot after the game had been in progress rather less than half an hour. Stimulated by this success the Everton men put on greater pressure than ever and the home defence was subjected to a very anxious time. A free kick close in gave the visitors a nice opening, but Abbott’s shot was well cleared. The home right then got going and Crelly and Bloomer coming into violent collision the former was rendered hors de combat for a time. On play restarting Davies and Fletcher made tracks towards Scott’s charge and Fletcher’s final shot was very cleverly intercepted by Balmer. The home side were now asserting themselves and two corners were forced on the left, but they were safely disposed of and Taylor serving up smartly, Hardman raced down, but he was obviously offside when he shot. The homesters once more attacked in dogged fashion, but they found themselves opposed to a stubborn defence. Nevertheless they kept pegging away and a corner was forced off Crelly and was only saved after an exciting struggle in front of Scott. As the interval approached the County made desperate efforts to draw level, but their efforts were very disjointed and the Everton backs were always able to clear. On one occasion, however, both Balmer and Crelley were beaten and Scott had to leave his goal in order to pick up the ball and throw it clear. A corner in Derby’s favour followed a moment later, but this was disposed of and a fine shot by Bloomer just missed the mark.
Half-time; Everton 1, Derby County nil.
The ground was packed to its utmost capacity when play was resumed. The home forwards lost no time in getting to work, and Crelley had to give a corner, but this came to nothing. Everton replied with a pretty forward movement, and McDermott lobbed the ball across to Hardman, but Ratcliffe beat the amateur and punted clear. The visitors who were now playing with great confidence, monopolised the attack for a long time, their work generally being far superior to that of their opponents, but there was the same hesitancy in front of goal, and as a consequence the Derby citadel escaped when its downfall seemed almost certain. The home forwards eventually managed to break away, but there was an entire absence of combination, and with Abbott hanging on to Bloomer, the Derby skipper was rarely permitted to run through on his own account. Once, however, he did manage to nip through the backs and put in a swift ground shot, but was gathered safely and thrown clear. A few moments later Bloomer put in another shot, and Scott holding the ball too long was penalised. Richard took the free kick and playing it nicely, Wheatcroft netted the ball amid terrific cheers. the continuing stages of the game were contested with tremendous keenness. Hardman scored for Everton twenty seconds from time. Result; Everton 2 goals, Derby County 1.

SELECTION OF TEAMS,
Leeds Mercury - Friday 30 December 1904
A meeting of the International Selection Committee was held the Pavilion, Bramall-lane, Sheffield, yesterday afternoon, after the conclusion of the Sheffield United v. Corinthians match. Mr. J. C, Clegg presided, and amongst those present were Messrs. C. Cramp. G. S. Sherrington, C. J. Hughes, J. J. Bentley, H. Davis, W. Bickford, J. J. Gregeon, H. Walker, and F. J. Wall, the secretary. The teams, Amateurs of the South v. Professionale of the South, were selected follows; Amateurs—T. S. (Old Carthusiaiw), goal; F. Lyon (Queen’s Park Bangers] and H. Smith (Reading), hacks; S. B. Ashworth (Oxford City and Everton), P. R. Sands (Woolwich Arsenal), and H. Vickers (Corinthians), half hacks; R. Q. Wright (Corinthians), S. H. Day (Old Malvenians), G. S. Harris (Old Reptoniams). S.S Harris, Capt. (Old Westminsters), and E. S. Ward (Corinthians), forwards. Professionals—Cartledge (Bristol Rovers), goal; Stevenson (Millwall) and Molynux (Southampton), backs; Lee (Southampton;), Parsonage (Brentford), and Brieiriey (Tottenham Hotspurs), half backs; Walton (Tottenham Hotspur), Coleman (Woolwich Arsenal), Saittenthwaite (Arsenal), Simmonds (West Haim), and Harris (Reading), forwards, The match will be played at Tottenham, on January 16 Mr. P. R. Hamorrer was appointed referee, with Rev. Campbell Wheeler (Wilts) and Mr. C Frowde (Dorset) linesman

EVERTON V NOTTS COUNTY
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 31 December 1904
At Goodison Park, before 15,000. After brisk opening play, Everton put on pressure. Earle saved from Taylor, but Sharp obtained and drove the ball into the net. Ten minutes later Sharp sent across a fine centre, which McLoughlin cleverly converted. Notts got away smartly, but almost invariably finished feebly. Gee rendered capital service, and sent against the upright. Hardman headed the third goal from Sharp's centre.
Half-time; Everton 3, Notts County 0.
Everton opened the second half with a couple of abortive corners, and after interesting exchanges, Taylor obtained the fourth goal for his. Notts improved, and after sustained pressure, Humphreys scored with a capital shot. The game was spiritedly contested, both goals having narrow escapes. Abbott scored Everton's fifth. Result; Everton 5, Notts County 1.

EVERTON v. NOTTS.
Nottingham Evening Post - Saturday 31 December 1904
In undertaking the journey to Goodison Park today Notts. Were faced by one of the most exacting of their away matches, and upon consideration form could they be made out to hold any chance of victory. The first Saturday in September saw Everton victorious over the “Magpies” in Nottingham, and the whole course of the campaign since then has only tended to accentuate the disparity between the teams. As wooden spoon holders Notts, were indeed called upon tackle combination who are making a bold challenge for the championship, and there was little cause for wonder that Liverpool the fixture was looked upon as affording a golden opportunity for strengthening the home club’s position. Times have sadly changed, indeed, since those four seasons in which Notts, were never beaten at Goodison Park. For the purposes of to-day’s engagement the visitors made only one change from the preceding week, the enforced substitution Earle for Pennington, but Everton hoped to be able to re-include Sharp, Ashworth, and Roose. Expectations in this respect were completely realized, and Young was back in his accustomed position, while McLoughlin substituted Settle with McDermott at inside right, the Blues’ front rank being at its strongest. R. Balmer was substituted for Crelly at back. Notts, unfortunately did not prove very great attraction, and though the weather was fine, there was not more than 8,000 spectators at the start. At the last moment Mainman stood down in the Notts, team and Craythorne joined the halves with Reid as Gee’s partner. The opening advances the Everton forwards were promptly frustrated by the backs, and Ashworth similarly checked the visitors’ left, but from a free kick against Reid the “Blues” again made and Abbott, with Young unguarded, shot behind. Some neat work Tarplin and Graythorne enabled Gee wrest a corner out of Balmer, and from flag kick the home goal experienced a couple of extremely narrow escapes. Taylor, however, eventually brought relief, and made a beautiful pass out to Sharp, whose swinging centre Young turned a trifle wide. Hardman whipped the ball back, and with Earle out his charge Griffiths kicked away from off the line. Taylor tried hard volley. A moment later Sharp emulated his example, and with too much curl on the ball went through off Earle’s hands. It was well worked-for point, but might have been saved. Green headed an incursion to the home quarters, but R. Balmer reached him as he essayed to centre, and the ball ultimately went across to Reid, whose shot passed wide. Everton came back with superb dash and Young passed out finely to Hardman, but Griffiths smartly robbed the amateur, and a very pretty movement took Notts, down for R. Balmer to despoil Tarplin luckily. Still, the visitors were persistent, and mistake Ashworth gave Gee an opening, but his partner’s shot grazed the upright with Roose awaiting eventualities. The visitors were not for long allowed to remain on the offensive, however. and following a couple of corners Sharp middled finely for McLoughlin fasten on the ball and put a second point with which Earle had chance. A miskick Crelly and a long shot from Green brought out, his goal, and Young, when palpably off-side, was allowed transfer Sharp, but luckily the latter s centre went astray, and some neat work by Dean resulted in a glorious centre from his partner, which was once again was fortunately cleared. Luck was with the Blues in the course another desperate assault, as Gee shot across goalmouth with one up to bother Roose. Notts, were playing capital football forward, and from another corner Reid struck the post, while out of a desperate scrimmage the goal escaped miraculously. A moment later Balmer all but deflected past Roose a shot by Dean, and just at this juncture Everton were Fortune's darlings with a vengeance. In Notts.’ quarters both Montgomery and Griffiths were heavily brought down, but only the latter incident was punished, and neat work on the home right went waste with Sharp overrunning the ball. Showing a rare turn of speed Hardman rounded Griffiths and Humphreys, but Earle disposed of his centre, and though the “Blues” remained on the attack, they failed to find another opening, till Young and McDermott were left in possession right in front. Even then, however, the defence held out, Earle dashing in to clear, but in midfield Green lost splendid chances, first by dwelling on the ball with Dean well placed and then by centring behind. Another rush the home forwards was checked by off-side, and play opened out till Griffiths let Hardman through force a corner. This was safely frustrated, and Gee headed a rush to the Everton quarters, but lacked support from his partner, and McDermott initiated pretty run, which finally left Sharp unguarded on the touch-line. Latter dropped across a sterling centre which fail in the goalmouth. Earle rushed out fist away, but he failed to reach the ball, and Hardman jumping headed third point easily. Immediately afterwards saved finely from Reid, and at half-time the score was : Everton 3 Notts none. That Everton were the better team so far was undeniable, but they had been supremely lucky escaping at least two reverses and emphatically did not desire commanding lead. Dean and Green changed places when play was resumed, before 12,000 people, but Everton were first the move, and Sharp got corner out of Montgomery, while big return by Balmer brought a second. Cmythomc’s judicious placing led to likely movement the visitors’ left, and Taylor only partially cleared Geo',' centre, but Green dallied, and when Tarplin burst through directly after he was bothered Crelly drove a rising shot trifle Tricky tactics by Hardman stimulated dashing assault at the other end, which Humphrey- negatived, and some even exchanges followed, with Everton still the faster and more cohesive side. In the course of another finely-engineered assault the “Blues” claimed strenuously for a penalty for hands but no heed was paid to the appeal, and some further clever work Hardman brought from Young a rising shot, which grazed the crossbar. Notts, were not moving now with anything like the dash and precision they showed in the first half, and at the end of fifteen minutes Everton forged further ahead Taylor driving in a shot which struck the upright and glanced into the net. Emberton twice came back to defend stoutly when Griffiths was beaten, but the visitors made very poor use of free kick in midfield against R. Balmer. The other Balmer, too, was penalised for tripping Gee, and Reid forced a corner, but Green’s half volley missed the uprignt by inches. Moment later Gee, well fed by Reid, centred brilliantly, but Tarplin could not quite reach the ball, and although Craythome was backing up, his oblique shot passed out. R. Balmer then missed his back, but his partner retrieved the blunder. Directly after, however, Dean ran round R. Balrner, and getting across a beautiful left foot centre saw Humphreys drive ball into the top corner with a shot which he never saw. Hardman immediately missed the chance of the match, and Geo and Reid were going through in fine style when the former was pushed just outside the penalty area, Reid heading only a trifle wide from the free kick. This temporary improvement in the visitors’ display however, soon disappeared, and Everton attacked desperately, but McLoughlin shot past, and at the other end following a thrilling centre by Gee, Dean missed almost an open goal. Again did Gee centre brilliantly, but saved marvelously from Reid, and the visitors took a couple of corners and a free kick close in find the defence solid and impenetrable. A dashing burst by the homo inside trio was cleverly checked and Notts, returned to the attack to fail in opposition to a well nit and somewhat lucky defence. Craythorne and Reid once sha in a promising advance, and then Gee gave Green and Tarplin another beautiful centre, but the latter got off-side, and R. disposed of a fine middle by the extreme left in the next second. This preceded a rapid burst on the home left, and Earle failing trap oblique shot from Abbott found ball travelling into the net. Green almost immediately reduced the lead, and then time came. Result: Everton 5 Notts 1 Players: Notts.—H. T. Earle (goal), A. Griffiths, J. Montgomery 'backs), F. I’. Emberton, P. Humphreys', B. Craythome half-backs), A. W. Green, J. Dean (right wing), W. Tarplin (centre), J. Reid, and E. Gee (left wing). Everton.—L. E. Roose (goal), Balmer, Crelly (backs), S. B. Ashworth, J. Taylor, A. Abbott (half-backs), ,J. Sharp, J. McDermott (right wing). A. Young (centre), J. McLoughlin. And H. P. Hardman (left wing). Referee: Mr. F. H. Dennis, Middleborough.

EVERTON V NOTTS
December 31, 1904. The Nottingham Evening News
In undertaking the journey to Goodison Park today Notts were faced by one of the most exacting of their away matches, and upon no consideration of form could they be made out to hold any chance of victory. The first Saturday in September saw Everton victorious over the “Magpies” in Nottingham, and the whole course of the campaign since then has only tended to accentuate the disparity between the teams. As wooden spoon holders Notts were indeed called upon to tackle a combination who are making a bold challenge for the championship, and there was little cause for wonder that in Liverpool the fixture was locked upon as affording a golden opportunity for strengthening the home club's position. Times have sadly changed, indeed, since those four seasons in which Notts, were never beaten at Goodison Park. For the purposes of today's engagement the visitors made only one change from the preceding week, the enforced substitution of Earle for Pennington, but Everton hoped to be able to re-include Sharp, Ashworth and Roose. Expectations in this respect were completely realized and Young was back in his accustomed position, while McLoughlin substituted Settle with McDermott at inside right, the “Blues” front rank being at its strongest. R. Balmer was substituted for Crelly at back. Notts unfortunately did not prove a very great attraction, and though the weather was fine, there was not more than 8,000 spectators at the start. At the last moment Mainman stood down in the Notts team and Craythorne joined the halves with Reid as Gee's partner. The opening advances by the Everton forwards were promptly frusated by the backs and Ashworth similarly checked the visitors' left, but from a free kick against Reid the “Blues” again made headway, and Abbott, with Young unguarded, shot behind. Some neat work by Tarplin and Craythorne enabled Gee to wrest a corner cut of Balmer, and from the flag kick the home goal experienced a couple of extremely narrow escapes. Taylor, however, eventually brought relief, and made a beautiful pass out to Sharp, whose swinging centre Young turned a trifle wide. Hardman whipped the ball back and with Earle out of his charge Griffiths kicked away, from off the line, his charge Griffiths kicked away from off the line. Taylor tried a hard volley. A moment later Sharp emulated his example and with too much curl on it the ball went through off Earle's hands. It was a well worked-for-point, but might have been saved. Green headed an incursion to the home quarters but R. Balmer reached him as he essayed to centre, and the ball ultimately went across to Reid, whose shot passed wide, Everton came back with superb dash and Young passed out finely to Hardman, but Griffiths smartly robbed the amateur, and a very pretty movement took Notts down for R. Balmer to despoil Tarplin luckily. Still, the visitors were persistent, and a mistake by Ashworth gave Gee an opening, but his partner's shot grasped the upright with Roose awaiting eventualities. The visitors were not for long allowed to remain on the offensive, however, and following a couple of corners Sharp middle finely for McLoughlin to fasten on the ball and put on a second point with which Earle had no chance. A miskick by Crelly and a long shot from Green brought Roose out of his goal and Young, when palpably off-side, was allowed to transfer to Sharp, but luckily the latter's centre went astray, and some sturdy work by Dean resulted in a glorious centre from his partner, which was once again fortunately cleared. Luck was with the “Blues” in the course of another desperate assault, as Gee shot across the goalmouth with no one up to brother Roose. Notts were playing capital football forward, and from another corner Reid struck the post, while out of a desperate scrimmage the goal escaped miraculously. A moment later Balmer all but deflected past Roose a shot by Dean, and just at this juncture Everton were Fortune's darlings with a vengeance. In Notts' quarters both Montgomery and Griffiths were heavily brought down, but only the latter incident was punished, and neat work on the home right went to waste with Sharp ever running the ball, showing a rare turn of speed Hardman rounded Griffiths and Humphreys, but Earle disposed of his centre, and though the “Blues” remained on the attack they failed to find another opening, till Young and McDermott were left in possession right in front. Even then, however, the defence held out. Earle dashing in top clear, but in midfield Green lost splendid chances, first by dwelling on the ball with Dean well placed and then by centring behind. Another rush by the home forwards was checked by off-side, and play opened out fill Griffiths let Hardman through to force a corner. This was safely frustrated, and Gee headed a rush to the Everton quarters, but he lacked support from his partner, and McDermott initiated a pretty run, which finally left Sharp unguarded on the touch-line. The latter dropped across a sterling centre which fell in the goalmouth. Earle rushed out to fist away, but he failed to reach the ball, and Hardman jumping up headed a third point easily. Immediately afterwards Roose saved finely from Reid, and at half-time the score was;-
Everton 3, Notts County 0
That Everton were the better team so far was undeniable but they had been supremely lucky in escaping at least two reverses and emphatically did not desire so commanding a lead, Dean and Green changed places when play was resumed, before 12,000 people, but Everton were first on the move, and Sharp got a corner out of Montgomery, while a big return by Balmer brought a second. Craythorne;s judicious placing led to a likely movement on the visitors' left, and Taylor only partially cleared Gee's centre, but Green dallied and when Turplin burst through directly after he was bothered by Crelly as he drive a rising shot a trifle wide. Tricky tactics by Hardman stimulated a dashing assault at the other end, which Embleton and Humphreys negatived, and some even exchanges followed, with Everton still the faster and more cohesive side. In the course of another finely-engineered assault the “Blues” claimed strenuously for a penalty for hands but no heed was paid to the appeal, and some further clever work by Hardman brought from Young a rising shot, which grazed the crossbar. Notts were not moving mow with anything like the dash and precision they showed in the first half, and at the end of fifteen minutes Everton forged further ahead. Taylor driving in a shot which struck the upright and glanced into the net. Emberton twice came back to defend stoutly when Griffiths was beaten, but the visitors made very poor use of a free kick in midfield against R. Balmer. The other Balmer, too, was penalized for tripping Gee, and Reid forced a corner, but Green's half volley missed the upright by inches. A moment later Gee, well fed by Reid, centred brilliantly, but Tarplin could not quite reach the ball, and although Craythorpe was backing up, his oblique shot passed out. R. Balmer then missed his back, but his partner retrieved the blunder. Directly after, however, Dean ran round R. Balmer, and getting across a beautiful left foot centre saw Humphreys drive the ball into the top corner with a shot which Roose never saw. Hardman immediately missed the chance of the match, and Gee and Reid were going through in fine style when the former was pushed just outside the penalty area, Reid heading only a trifle wide from the free kick. This temporary improvement in the visitors' display, however, soon disappeared, and Everton attacked desperately, but McLoughlin shot past, and at the other end following a thrilling centre by Gee, Dean missed almost an open goal. Again did Gee centre brilliantly, but Roose, saved marvelously from Reid, and the visitors took a couple of corners and a free kick close in to find the defence solid and impenetrable. A dashing burst by the home inside trio was cleverly checked and Notts returned to the attack to fail in opposition to a well, knit and somewhat lucky defence. Craythborne and Reid once shared in a promising advance, and then Gee gave Green and Tarplin another beautiful centre, but the latter got off-side, and R. Balmer disposed of a fine middle by the extreme left in the next second. This preceded a rapid burst on the home left, and Earle failing to trap an oblique shot from Abbott found the ball travelling into the net. Green almost immediately reduced the lead and then time came. Result;- Everton 5, Notts 1 Players;- Notts-H.T. Earle (goal); A. Griffths, J. Montgonery (backs); F.P. Emberton, P. Humphreys, R. Craythorne (Half-backs), A.W. Green, J. Dean (right wing), W. Tarplin (Centre), J. Reid, and E. Gee (Left wing). Everton; L.R. Roose (goal); Balmer, Crelly (backs), S.R Ashworth, J. Taylor, A. Abbott (half-backs), J. Sharp, J. McDermott, (right-wing), J. Young (centre), J. McLoughlin, and F.P. Hardman (left wing). Referee; Mr. F.H. Dennis of Middlesbrough.

TEAM ARRANAGEMENT
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 31 December 1904
Everton v Notts County
League match at Goodison Park; kick-off at 2.15
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Rossendale United
Lancashire Combination match at Rossendale
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Hutchinson, and Ritchie, half-backs; Rankin, McLoughlin, Roberts, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.
Monday
Everton v Liverpool
(Liverpool Cup-Final)
At Anfield; kick-off 2.15
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Southport Central
At Southport; kick-off 2.15
Everton Reserve.- Dent, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Hutchinson, and Ritchie, half-backs; Rankin, McLoughlin, Roberts, Dilly and Evans, forwards.
Northern Nomads v Sheffield
This match takes place at Goodison Park on Monday, not at Sheffield as stated in yesterday’s paper.

EVERTON v  NOTTS COUNTY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 31 December 1904
EVERTON SCORE 3 GOALS BEFORE HALF-TIME
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Although Everton disappointed their supporters in their encounters with Sunderland and Manchester City, they have reaped a fine harvest from the holiday week, and placed themselves in a position of supremacy which every ardent supporters hopes will be maintained until we ring down the curtain finally. Notts County were the visitors to-day at Goodison Park, and on paper it looked rather like a soft couple of points accruing to Everton, but against this it has been frequently found in recent years that when the two lace district teams visit Liverpool they are in such a bad way that very special effort was necessary to save disaster, and the Notts team have on occasions made the necessary effort with such effect as to bring discomfort and disappointment to Liverpool. Compensation comes of course to the spectators who witness a thoroughly hard-fought game. The teams turned out as follows;-
Everton.- L.R. Roose, goal; W. Balmer (captain), and R. Balmer, backs; Ashworth, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Notts County.- Earle, goal; Griffiths and Montgomery, backs; Emberton, Humphries, and Graythorne, half-backs;  Green, Dean, Tamplin, Reid, and Gee, forwards.
There were about 10,000 spectators present when Young started for Everton. McLoughlin playing in place of Settle. Everton on two occasions attempted to break away, but the Notts men got fairly going. Ashworth being very busy. The Lambs, however, succeeded in breaking through, but a foul favoured Everton. The visitors came back on the left, and Gee put behind. A corner to Notts followed, this being stubbornly contested in the goalmouth, but Dean put behind. Taylor was prominent, and McLoughlin obtained possession, but finished with a weak shot. A brilliant run was then made by Green but when he came to shooting distance Crelley hustled him off the ball, and the Everton brigade breathed freely again, going away and making a brisk attack. The stubborn opening of the visitors livened the game up considerably, and it was quite evident they intended to put forward every effort. Sharp got a neat forward pass, but his centre was not very accurate and Hardman only just took the ball from the goal-line and put over once again to the right, where Young was afforded a nice opportunity, but Earle anticipated him, and just cleared his lines in the nick of time. The County failed to get away, and Taylor presented Earle with a rousing shot, but the Notts custodian acquitted himself well. The ball was shot over to Sharp, who was in good position, and sent in a swift low shot which Earle failed to get down to, and the leather curling in his hands fell behind him into goal. This success came to the Blues after less then ten minutes of the play Dean and Green made a startling effort along  their wing, but a most dashing piece of work by Abbott ended in favour of the Evertonian, and this was the signal for Sharp to get away, only to be pulled up for some informality when he was making straight for goal. However, this failed to hold back the Everton men, and Sharp was soon busy again, but was checked by Montgomery. The ball was then crossed, and Hardman had several tussles with Emberton and Griffiths, but failed to get in a centre. Then McLoughlin forced a corner from Griffiths and in endeavouring to clear the ball away Earle conceded another, the leather this time being headed outside. The lace men were being fairly hustled about just now, and the backs failed to clear. Young put across to Sharp, who returned a neat centre, which Young just missed; but McLoughlin fastened on the ball and getting round Gee, smartly sent in a swift screw shot between the Notts backs which beat them completely and gave Earle no possible chance of dealing with. The game continued in Notts territory until Green sailed down his wing practically unopposed and wound up with a perfect centre; but Taylor was too sharp for the Notts men in waiting and cleared splendidly. The County returned to the fray with vigour, and a swift shot from Reid was only a foot wide of the mark. The Notts wings came along smartly, but when the ball was centred the action was tame in the extreme. Humphreys making a very poor attempt to reach the goalmouth with a three-quarter length shot. Just afterwards a better attempt to score came from Dean, whose shot gained a corner, but this failed to trouble the Everton defence. At the other end a foul was given against Young, but the Evertonians again escaped, and clever work between Hardman, Taylor and McLoughlin was finished up by the last-named testing the Notts goalkeeper with a swift low shot, Earle just scrapping the ball away. A couple of fouls fell to Everton, but smart work by the Notts defence effectually neutralised. Griffiths checked a smart effort of Ashworth’s and Balmer was called to clear one from the County centre. Everton then asserted some little pressure, and Earl turned a very dangerous shot of McLoughlin’s into a corner, but this was successfully negotiated by the Midlanders. Green made a most promising run down his right, but he was unable to resist the attentions of the Everton backs, who unsuccessfully sandwiched him. Ashworth then put Hardman in possession, but Young was not up to secure the centre. Exchanges followed in midfield, and the Evertonians slackened off considerably, as it was very evident the Blues had the game well in hand. Next came a corner, as the result of pressure on the home left, but Everton could not improve its position from it. Abbott misjudged a return from Griffiths, the result being that Emberton and Humphreys worked round their opponents and the last-named passed out to Green, who dashed down his wing and, without serious opposition to face, shot in a most wretched manner, missing by yards. Soon afterwards some tasty work was put in by the home team, and by a series of dashes they planted themselves in front of the Notts goal. Here the three inside men showed up prominently, and a brillaint move was finished up when Hardman, tipped the ball into the net, securing Everton’s third goal. The Blues continued to have very much the best of matters, and the Notts halves were quite unable to break up the pretty and scientific forward work of the Everton forwards. But Griffiths and Montgomery stuck to their guns at all times, and were usually steady enough under hot pressure. Just before the interval the County were in Everton territory, but they were never really dangerous, and when the whistle announced the cessation of hostilities the opposing team were operating on the half-way line. Half-time score; Everton 3 goals, Notts County nil.
EVERTON IN FINE FORM
AN EASY VICTORY
Tamplin restarted before about 12,000 spectators. The ball was at once returned to Sharp, who struggled gamely, and at last forced a corner from Montgomery, which, however, was headed away by Humphries. Graythorne on this occasion cleared his lines. A couple of dashes were then made by the County men, but lacked finish. A spirited move came from the visitors, Tamplin making a bold bid for goal, but failed in his attempt. Fouls on either side spoiled promising moves, but a long return by Balmer was captured by Taylor, who rushed it along to Sharp, and then Hardman sent by the corner of the Notts goal. Balmer checked Dean very easily, but the County forward did not put much life into his work. Hardman caused the Everton advance to the corner flag, where Griffiths conceded a corner, from which the ball went behind. The game had lost much of its interest, and the Blues were not pressing with much intention, though the County backs were keen and vigorous on defence. Sharp centred very accurately to Young and Griffiths handed out, but though a penalty was claimed, Mr. Dennis proved blind to this very palpable infringements. The Blues still occupied much attention, but all their efforts proved fruitless, until a magnificent drive by Taylor beat Earle all to pieces. The County men nearly scored from a corner, and after a lot of give-and-take play the visitors got down on the right, Dean tricking R. Balmer, and Humphries coming in at the finish scored a pretty goal for Notts County. About five minutes from the finish Abbott scored a fifth goal for the home side.
Final Result- Everton 5 goals, Notts County 1 goal.
Everton won the corresponding fixture last season by 3 goals to 1.

ROSSENDALE UNITED v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 31 December 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV. A
At Rossendale. Everton got down from the kick-off, and Evans shot in from the left, but Arrowsmith cleared cleverly. Roberts got an opening, but shot over. Play went to the other end, where Billington missed an open goal. A fine run by Evans was stopped by Leach, and immediately afterwards Kitchen had to fist out for Everton. Dilly scored for the visitors eight minutes from the interval. Half-time; Everton 1 goal, Rossendale nil.

EVERTONIANS EXCELLENCE
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 31 December 1904
No club has come through the holiday games with greater credit than Everton. Two of their three engagements have been away, yet they have secured five points out of six. Rather strangely, the one point dropped was lost on their own ground. Manchester City playing a draw. Monday’s victory at Wolverhampton was of a sweeping character, and the score of 3-0 furnishes some indication of the excellence of Everton’s play. The forwards are working together in rare style, combining pace, quickness on the ball, dash, and shooting strength. Tuesday’s game at Derby also brought forth a fine display, and though a bit lucky to score in the last few seconds and so gain both points, the Toffee team really deserved success. Their footwork has won unstinted praise, and when the team figured at the head of the League on Tuesday night their supporters were jubilant. Sheffield United robbed the of premier position the next day, but there can be no doubt that the championship is a possibility. PERSEUS