EVERTON 5 NOTTS COUNTY 1
January 2, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
EVERTON'S EASY VICTORY
ONE-SIDED GAME.
Considering that in their first match of the season, Everton vanquished Notts County on the Lace capital by two goals to one, it was not in the ordinary run of events likely that the verdict would be reversed in the return game. As a matter of fact, the result in favour of Everton was even more emphatic, the Lacemen failing by the decisive score of five goals to one. But as this reverse was Notts County worsted this season it easily have been more severely trounced, if the Everton men had kept at high standard right throughout the contest. Once they secured a lead of four clear goals, their eased off a little, and it was during this period that Notts obtained their solitary goal. Naturally it took the Evertonians some time to get into their stride again, and they were content with five goals. Undoubtedly Notts County are the weakest League team which has appeared at Goodison park this season, and one cannot be surprised at the lack of success which has so far attained their efforts.
RUN OF THE PLAY.
There was too great a contrast between the sides to render the game really interesting or exciting to the spectators. The County started off fairly well, and indulged in some smart movements which, however, were completely spoiled when it came to a matter of shooting at goal. Everton soon found their feet, and the veriest novice could have foretold an easy victory for the home side. Sharp opened the scoring with a shot which went off Earle's hand into the net and McLoughlin, by a really clever individual efforts, put on a second, while just before the interval Hardman registered a third. Meanwhile the County had been working hard and successfully to a point, but they occasioned Roose practically no anxiety. After the change of ends Notts imparted a little more life into their movements, but they had little opportunity until that hardworking veteran. Taylor to the great gratification of his colleagues and of the crowd added a fourth goal. Then it was that the Everton men, evidently conscious of their superiority and not desirous of “rubbing it in” too much, slowed down. This gave Notts their only chance of distinguishing themselves, and it fell to the lot of a half back. Humphreys, to partially redeem the failure of his side by defeating Roose with a splendid shot. They could do no more, and with Abbott putting on a fifth goal, Notts retired hopelessly outclassed.
THE PLAYERS.
Although Everton could hardly be said to have been fully extended, they accomplished quite enough to justify the high position, which they at present occupy in the League. The opposition was not such as to bring out their best fighting qualities. In all departments they were far cleverly than their antagonists, and the only weakness was in the back division. The younger Balmer was not in his best humour, and with extra work thrown on his elder brother it was rather lucky that Everton had not to face a fast and tricky set of forwards; otherwise Roose's position would not have been the sinecure it was. Only two men on the Notts Countyside distinguished themselves. These were Ellis Gee and Humphreys. The former played a capital game against his old comrades, but was badly supported, while Humphreys besides scoring the only goal which fell to his side, presented not a few openings to his forwards which were absolutely thrown away. On last Saturday's form Notts County will have a very hard task to escape from a season with the Second Division. Teams: - Everton: - Roose, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott half-backs Sharp, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin and Hardman forwards. Notts County: - Earle, goal Griffiths, and Montgomery backs Emberton, Humphreys, and Grayhorne, half-backs, Green, Dean, Tamplin, Reid and Gee, forwards. Referee Mr.Dennis

ROOSENDALE UNITED 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 2, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 19)
The Everton team sustained an unexpected reverse at Roosendale, where the United won by two goals to one. Everton opened the scoring through Dilly soon after the start and retained their lead to the interval, but they afterwards fell away and lost several chances. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Wildman and McCartney, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson half-backs, Rankin, McLoughlin, Roberts, Dilly and Evans, forwards.

NOTTS COUNTY'S PLIGHT.
London Daily News - Monday 02 January 1905
Everton gained easy victory at the expense Notts County at Goodison Park. Crelly and Settle were absent from the home side, while Notts were short Pennington and Mainman. From the start play favoured Everton, whose attack was too strong for the visitors' defence, the first half goals were scored Sharp, McLaughlin, and Hardman for Everton, who led three to nil the interval. Taylor added fourth soon after the resumption. Then Notts played up with great spirit, and for a time had much the game as their opponents, Humphreys scoring fine goal for them. Abbott obtained the fifth for Everton.

EVERTON NEWS
Athletic News - Monday 02 January 1905
A capital story reaches us in connection with the visit of Everton to Wolverhampton on Monday last.  The game was played in the morning, and Mr. Cuff, who had decided to take his team to Birmingham to see the Villa match, ordered dinner for them at an hotel close to the “Wolves” ground.  The “Wolves” players, by the way, intended visiting the races, at Dunstall Park, in the afternoon, and their directors had ordered sandwiches for them to be taken to their dressing-room on the ground.  But the best laid schemes, etc., again went agley.  The Everton secretary left early and waited at the hotel for his players, but they never appeared, and eventually, having paid the bill, he wandered somewhat disconsolately to the station to entrain for Birmingham.  On his arrival, he discovered each member of the Everton team with a fine and large parcel of sandwiches before him, munching away with evident pleasure.  On inquiring why they had not turned up at the hotel, he was informed that the sandwiches had been brought to their dressing room, and that they evidently considering this had been done to gain time, had forthwith appropriated them. 

EASY VICTORY FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 02 January 1905
By Junius
Everton commenced the second half of their League programme in fine style by trouncing Notts County to the extent of five goals to one.  After their arduous labours during the early part of the weak it was perhaps fortunate for them that they had only the wooden spoonists of the League to tackle, but despite this, Notts never really extended their opponents and on their form in this match the position of the visitors is easily understood.  At one period Everton enjoyed a lead of four goals,-the wonder is that even this number was not exceeded –after which the home players eased up, and Notts, to their credit be it said, took advantage of this, and not only scored but might have added one or two more with a little steadiness near goal.  Owing to injuries Everton had to make some changes in their team, the younger Balmer substituting Crelley, whilst Ashworth filled the right half position in place of Makepeace, and McLoughlin played inside left vice Settle.  For Notts, Mainman was unable to attend, and Craythorne operated at left half-back, thereby introducing Reid as partner for Gee.  Fully 15,000 persons witnessed the game, which proved rather one-sided, though had the Notts forwards been smart enough to utilize the chances which occurred, the verdict against them would not have been so decisive against them would not have been so decisive.  As events turned out, they did not shape badly in midfield, but they were dreadfully weak in applying the finishing touches, and the only goal they gained came from the half-back line.  In addition, the attack was one-sided, and the left wing had to bear the brunt of the advances.  For the first ten minutes there was little to choose between the teams, and Notts should have taken advantage of a tussle in the Everton goalmouth after a corner had been forced by Gee.  Thus early they demonstrated their weakness, and Everton, breaking away, the ball came out to Taylor, who sent in a terrific drive.  Earle stopped the shot, but could not get it properly clear, and Taylor again obtaining possession passed out to Sharp, who drove in at a great pace, and the ball went out of the custodian’s hands into the net.  Seven minutes later Sharp, who was playing a capital game, centred well in front, and after the ball had been sent out and returned two or three times McLoughlin pounced on the leather and cleverly scored a second point.  Notts made several good efforts to reduce the lead, and Gee placed from a corner kick against the upright.  Humphreys eventually sending over the bar.  Dean was prominent with a dashing dribble, but Roose was never troubled, and Notts were already contesting a forlorn hope.  On the other hand, Everton were always hovering dangerously near goal whenever they got away, and Earle had to sprawl full length to stop a shot from McDermott. Just before the interval some splendid work by the latter gave Sharp a clear course, and centring accurately he brought out Earle, who failed to get at the leather ere Hardman had bobbed up and diverted it into the net.  Fort sometime after the resumption Everton held the ascendancy, and a perfect centre from Sharp was seized by Young, who shot in strongly.  One of the Notts backs handled, but the referee failed to notice the incident, and the visitors’ defence gained a badly needed respite.  Eventually Taylor received within shooting range and scored a fourth point, after which Everton relaxed their efforts.  Notts then went ahead, and Dean missed an easy chance from a corner forced by the indefatigable left wing pair, and after some considerable amount of pressure Humphreys added a clever goal for the Midlanderers.  The latter came near scoring on more than one occasion after this success, but the majority of the attempts were very erractic.  In response to the demands of their supporters, Everton rallied, and Abbott completely beat Earle with a fifth, thus enabling his side to run out easy winners.  Everton were the better team, and as the final figures denote, there was a considerable disparity between their efficiency and that of the Notts players.  I must candidly confess to a feeling of disappointment with the display of the county, for they never shaped like a proficient eleven, and Everton could have beaten them just when they felt inclined.  There were weaknesses on the Everton side, which enabled the visitors to secure promising openings, but they seemed unable to do anything right when they got to close quarters.  Gee was by far the best of the forwards, his centres deserving a better fate, and considering the manner in which he frequently whipped round Ashworth, and gained a favourable position, it speaks badly for the remainder of the front line that they could not turn even one chance to account.  The others dribbled and dribbled until they were dispossessed, and they most assiduously refrained from testing Roose with a troublesome shot.  Further behind there was little improvement noticeable, for the half-backs- amongst whom Humphreys distinguished himself by working zealously throughout –were unable to hold the Everton front line, and the full-backs were no better nor worse than the men in front of them, Earle did not impress me as being a great goalkeeper, for he ought to have stopped the shot which Sharp sent in, and which registered the first goal, whilst he completely missed the centre from the right wing, which enabled Hardman to head the third point.  On their form in this match Notts are the weakest side that have been seen at Goodison Park this season, and unless a tremendous improvement takes place the Second Division is theirs right enough.  Everton were very clever forward, and I was especially pleased with the display of Sharp. In his previous games this season he has been none too prominent, but he exhibited his best form in this match, and had much to do with the obtaining of the first three goals.  Hardman also gave a capital exposition, and little fault could be found with the front rank all round.  McDermott plied Sharp with some delightful passes, and this capable inside player makes a wonderful difference to the efficiency of the extreme winger.  At half-back Abbott and Taylor were the pick, and both had the men opposed to them well under control.  Taylor gave his forwards every opportunity of making headway, and is equally adept in placing to the front or swinging the ball well out to the wings when occasion requires.  Ashworth put in some dainty touches, but he was too easily thwarted by the robust Gee, who thereby frequently obtained a clear course.  The Balmer brothers did not exactly shine as a combination at full-back, for the younger scion of the family was erratic in his kicking and this kept his brother on the alert watching both wings at the same time.  One result of this was that even the more experienced player was put off his game, and in this respect Everton need consider themselves fortunate that they were only once beaten.  Roose had a lazy time of it, for rarely indeed was it that a shot came in his direction that would have found the net, had he not been there.  He occasionally went out of his way to get near the ball, and thereby confirmed his own impressions that he was taking part in the game.  Everton; L.R. Roose; Balmer (W.), Balmer (R.); S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Notts County- Earle; Griffiths, Montgomery; Emberton, Humphreys, Craythorne; Green, Dean, Tarplin, Reid, Gee.  Referee; F.H. Dennis, Middlesbrough.

LIVERPOOL’S TRIUMPH
London Daily News - Tuesday 03 January 1905
The Liverpool Cup final tie between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield-road attracted some 25,000 spectators. Both teams made several changes. After attacks by Everton had been repulsed Robinson scored for Liverpool, but before half-time Taylor equalized. After the change of ends Liverpool had the belter of the exchanges, and further goals were added by Goddard (two) and Cox. Everton were unable respond, and Liverpool won four goals one.

LIVERPOOL 4 EVERTON 1
January 3, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Liverpool Senior Cup Final
Liverpool and Everton met yesterday afternoon in the final of the Liverpool Cup. There was a fine holiday crowd at Anfield, there being some 25,000 people present at the start. Some curious changes were made in the Liverpool team, Cox going centre forward, while Fleming and Morris formed the left wing. Wilson displaced Fleming at back. Everton also made some changes, Crelly appearing at back, Rankin displacing Sharp, and Hanlin playing right half vice Ashworth. The teams therefore lined up the following order: - Liverpool: - Doig, goal, West, and Dunlop, backs Parry Raisebeck, and Wilson, half-backs, Goddard, Robinson, Cox Morris, and Fleming forwards. Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Hanlin, Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Rankin McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and Hardman, forwards. Everton started the ball, and the Blues soon became dangerous. Hardman, who finished with an accurate centre, made a grand run. Young got it, and beat Doig at close quarters. but for some reason the referee gave Young offside. Liverpool then attacked on the left, but the defence prevailed, and the Blues, aided by a free kick, were soon at work at the other end, where the ball was put behind after Doig had fisted out. A further attack by Liverpool was repulsed, and the visiting right was getting off when Dunlop fouled Rankin, Doig fisted away the free kick. The crowd, whose partially found free vent, followed the game with great interest. Young got possession, despite the efforts if Raisebeck, and passing out to Hardman, the latter shot wide. Midfield play followed, until Taylor tripped Cox. From the free kick the Everton goal had a narrow escape. Fleming ought to have got through, and Robinson in trying to remedy the error, got offside, his shot, however, being charge down. The game continued fast and exciting, and both ends were visited in turn. After a run by the home right Parry called on Scott, who saved easily a long shot, and then Raisebeck put in a fine effort from long range, the Everton custodian again saying well. McDermott gave Rankin a chance, but Raisebeck chipped in and cleared. Cox, and Robinson kept the visiting defence busy for a spell, a free kick for Everton relieving the pressure. From this Hardman got possession although he looked offside. The whistle did not sound, but the wingers shot went wide of the mark. The Everton forwards got going, a claim for hands against McLoughlin being disregarded, and McDermott got in a low shot after some nice passing. Doig kicking clear, Brown initiated an attack by the Reds but Robinson was given off-side. Taylor served his forwards nicely, but first Parry and then West cleared the lines. Another nice passing movement by the Blues carried play in front of Doig, whose charge had a narrow escape. Raisebeck averting a disaster at the expense of a fruitless corner. A centre from Goddard brought no advantage, Cox failing to make progress. A moment later Goddard gave Cox an opening, and passing out Fleming raced up, but the off-side rule intervened. For some time play was in the Everton half, but the visiting defenders were not too hardly pressed. A nice run by the Everton right produced no tangible result, and at the other end Dicky Morris gave Cox a chance of a shot, which the new centre promptly seized Scott bringing of an effective clearance. West had to kick into touch to avoid Hardman and afterwards Doig in clearing a slow ball clean missed his kick and Raisebeck cleared at expense of a corner, which was put behind. Taylor checked a rush by the Liverpool right. Young was getting dangerous when Parry brought him down just outside the penalty line, the free kick proving unavailing. At the other end Fleming got possession from Balmer, and Cox sent in a grand shot, which luckily for Everton, struck the crossbar, and glanced behind. It was the best shot of the day, and its failure was a stroke of ill fortune for Liverpool. In a further attack, Scott kept out a header from Cox, the Reds now having the best of the play. Some nice passing was seen on both sides, but it was a tricky pass by Morris, which put Fleming on the move. The winger centred, and Robinson got possession with a clear opening. He ran through, and despite the efforts of Hanlin and Balmer he steered the leather past Scott into the net. The second leagues thus got the first goal of the day against their “classy” opponents. Goddard afterwards sent behind and a few minutes later Hartman was hurt in colliding with Doig, who run out to clear. He limped to the side of the field, but soon resumed. Everton then pressed, and a bully ensued in the home goal. Taylor putting the ball through. A minute later the whistle sounded for the interval. Half-time Liverpool 1 Everton 1. The first incident of notice in the second half was a grand shot by Hardman, which was well saved by Doig. Aided by several free kicks Everton attacked strongly, but the Anfield defence prevailed. The Lord major (Mr.John Lea) arrived at this stage to present the cup to the winners, and he took a seat in the director's box. Liverpool afterwards attacked on the right, and Goddard put in a shot from long range. Scott appeared to touch the ball, which, however, glanced into the net. Liverpool were therefore as goal ahead. Everton had the best of play after this, although the forwards play was rather spoiled by a tangency to get offside. They forced a couple of corners, but without avail, and a dash to the other end by Liverpool was equally fruitless although Scott had to save from Cox. The game continued full of interest, both sides striving hard. After fast and even play Cox dashed off on his own beating Crelly for speed scored again for Liverpool amidst tremendous enthusiasm when only about five minutes remained for play. Liverpool were still the better team and Goddard with a grand shot scored a second again putting Liverpool ahead by four goals to one. Liverpool thus once more gained the cup. Final Liverpool 4 goals Everton 1.

PRESENTING THE CUP
The cup was presented by Lord Mayor to Raisebeck. Cox secured the ball. There was tremendous enthusiasm, thousands of spectators crowding round. The Hon Mrs Victor Stanley presented the medals. A vote of thanks was passed to the Lord Mayor on the motion of Dr Whitford, a directors of the Everton Club seconded by Aid E.Walker.

SOUTHPORT CENTRAL 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
January 3,1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 20)
Yesterday at Southport, before a big gate. Teams: - Southport: - Garvey, goal, Spink, and Rimmer backs, Sinclair, Edmonds, and Chorlton, half-backs Dawson, Rushton, Smith, Danson, and Lawson, forwards. Everton: - Dent, goal, R.Balmer, and Wildman, backs, Ritchie, Booth (captain), and Hutchinson half-backs, McAdams, Caldwell, Roberts, Dilly, and Evans forwards . Southport won the toss, and the Mayor (Mr.E.Trunson) kicked off for Everton. Play opened with a lame attempt by Everton. A run on the home right livened matters up, and for a minute or two there was hot work in front of Dent. Smith shot splendidly, but Dent rose to the occasion and saved. Danson and Lawton took the ball along, and the former, after tricking Ritchie, passed to Lawton, who sent in a shot which sailed into the corner of the net, scoring for Southport within a little over five minutes of the start. The goal was a beauty, and Dent had no earthly chance of saving it. Everton made a spurt, but although they kept play in the home half for some minutes they were rarely seriously dangerous. With a rush play went to the other end, where Dent saved twice in rapid succession from Chorlton, and Edmond. Everton now made their last attempts so far but McAdams was hustled when about to shoot, and the ball went wide. Evans forced a corner, and a big kick by Ritchie relieved the pressure. A sudden sprint by Smith ended in a corner for Southport, but nothing game of it. A scrimmage in front of the Everton goal gave Southport another corner, but from this Edmonds shot high over. Nice play by Balmer stopped another attack by the Central, and the Everton forwards showed very pretty work, but the home half backs were generally able to break up their combination. Half-time Southport 1, Everton nil. Everton pressed at the opening of the second half, but a smart run by Dawson altered the look of things, and there was a sharp scrimmage in front of the visitors goal, before the ball was cleared. After some end to end play Dawson made another grand run and from his centre Smith shot past Dent. Final Result Southport 2, Everton nil.

ENGLISH PLAYERS AND CLUBS FINED.
Dundee Evening Post - Saturday 07 January 1905
League Affairs Over the Border. The monthly meeting of the English League Committee was held in Manchester yesterday J. J. Bentley presiding. It was reported that Middleborough had consented to transfer their old player Muir free, and that Everton reduced the fee on Green to £25. While Everton were mulcted in a guinea for playing ten men at the start of their match with Manchester City, L. R. Roose, the goalkeeper, having been delayed by fog and his substitute being ten minutes late.

AN ODD GOAL AT SHEFFIELD
Athletic News - Monday 09 January 1905
By Nemo
I went to Bramall-Lane in the expectation of seeing a brilliantly exciting game between Sheffield United and Everton, but unfortunately little occurred to wax eloquent about.  The game never rose to the height of anticipation.  Of excitement there was little, of sensational incidents there were none, and, generally speaking, the contest must be voted as a rather dull affair.  I do not mean to say that there was no good football.  There was, and plenty of it, but of those brilliant flashes from end to end with the goals in imminent danger and only saved by some daring exploit on the part of the defenders there were strangely few.  The result of 90 minutes’ strenuous striving was that two teams, who are noted for skill and deadliness of attack, succeeded in getting one solitary goal, and that by no means a brilliant one, seeing that it was practically given away by a momentary weakness on the part of an otherwise admirable defence.  That goal went to the credit of the Sheffielders, who thus annexed both points.  As a matter of fact, however, a division of the points would have been more in keeping with the merits of the teams.  Failure in front of goal was a feature of the play of both sides, and powerful defence all round was most marked.  I should think that on the whole the Evertonians had more of the play than the home side, and they certainly were full value for a draw.  However, goals alone count, and this much must be said in favour of the United that they were earnest triers and that they managed to skillfully seize one of their opportunities, thanks to a good shot by Drake, whereas the visitors allowed many to go by untaken.  With Crelley and Booth back again in the team Everton had a powerful side.  United lacked the services at centre half of Bernard Wilkinson, who was laid up with the influenza, and his brother, “W.H.” took his place.  There was a crowd of 17,000 or 18,000 people present, and the receipts amounted to a little over 500 pounds.   When the Sheffielders started on a ground inclined to be sticky the conditions were very even, for there was no wind to speak of.  Play was very even, and both sides showed earnestness and skill.  Each had a chance of scoring early.  First came Everton’s opportunity by Hardman sprinting down the left and centring where Young hurrying up put the ball over the bar.  At the other end Needham provided Donnelly with a glorious opening only to see the United inside right get his foot under the ball and lift it over the bar.  Perhaps the United attack had the more sting in it at first, Roose had to repel long and dangerous shots from Johnson and Donnelly with plenty of power behind them.  However, the Everton forwards did some clever passing, and once looked certain to break through the home defence, when groves, despite a slight injury just, previously received, came to the rescue in a scrimmage in front of goal.  Another time Hardman did some smart work on his own and finished with a sharp shot which found Leivesley watchful.  With so many forwards on each side with reputations as goal-getters one naturally expected to see some scoring, but so soundly did the defence acquit itself that with half an hour gone by no goal had come.  With the advancement of the game the Everton attack had grown the more dangerous, though perhaps there were rather too much short passing near goal in an effort to achieve position for a certain score.  Nevertheless, the United goal had one remarkably narrow escape, for another inch or two on Settle’s height would have enabled him to get his head to a lovely centre by Rankin.  The visitors’ inside-left barely failed as it was, with Leivesley helpless.  The Sheffielders rarely got near Roose now, the Everton half-backs playing excellently, and when these were occasionally passed Balmer and Crelley were as safe as could be, and even tricky young Brown could not get a chance to shoot.  Once, indeed, the United centre looked like bursting through, but he unluckily handled the ball, and the interval arrived without either side having scored.  When the second half began Drake might have opened the score for United, as Balmer kicked the ball against him, but Roose pounced on the ball just in time to thwart the inside-left.  The Everton custodian on another occasion cleverly saved his citadel, catching the ball from a fine centre by Donnelly, and avoiding the rush of another foe.  Notwithstanding these incidents, the Everton men did much the more attacking, and a well-sustained and combined assault was only frustrated by the coolness and  skill of Leivesley, who after stopping a rare shot by Taylor, distinguished himself by a particularly smart stop as Rankin drove the ball along the ground at lightning speed.  Once the crowd at the far end thought the United had scored, as Lang urged the ball at a terrific rate across the goal mouth only inches wide of the far post, and set up wild cheers of triumph, but as darkness and mist were coming on they may easily be forgiven the mistake.  Shortly after this, however, the Sheffield crowd had real cause for jubilation, for at last came the long-deferred goal .  Abbott took a free-kick badly, and the ball remained in Everton’s quarters instead of being sent up the field.  Then, as it was sprung in from the right, a mistake by Balmer let Drake through, and presented him with an opening, swiftly and cleverly taking his opportunity, Drake drove the ball with a fast, rising shot into the net, Roose being helpless at rather short range.  Thus, with 20 minutes to go, was scored the solitary goal of the match.  After this the Evertonians set themselves energetically to recover their lost ground.  The United, except for an occasional rush, devoted themselves mainly to defence.  Near time a very strong combined effort by the visitors looked certain to give them an equalizer, but Settle missed a golden opportunity, sending the ball across the goalmouth and out, and no other chance presented itself.  Indeed, the Sheffielders ought to have had another goal just before the finish, but Lipsham made an equally bad mistake, and an odd goal in favour of the Bramall-lane brigade was the sole result of 90 minutes’ strenuous strife.  As may be imagined, the game was not one wherein goalkeeper had great opportunities of shinning, but both Leivesley and Roose did such work as they had in very smart fashion.  A great feature of the game was the splendid display of the Everton half-backs, amongst whom Taylor, in the centre, played particularly well, and we saw less of the United front rank than usual, though Lang’s centres were often a source of danger.  I should say the extreme right winger was the pick of the Sheffield attacking brigade on Saturday.  Young Brown was somewhat overshadowed, for when he eluded the vigilant half-back there was always either Balmer or Crelley, dashing, safe, and clever, to prevent him shooting.  Indeed, the United centre got in singularly few shots during the afternoon.  As for the Everton forward brigade, Rankin played a fine game in the first half and ought to have been given more work in the second.  Hardman on the other wing also was speedy and clever.  As a body the quintette passed and combined artistically, but over did this sort of thing when near goal, allowing themselves to be robbed in trying to work for an absolute certainty.  All the same, he got some good chances, only to miss them by bad shooting. Indeed there was a lot of admirable football in midfield by both teams, but both lacked deadliness.  Like the visitors, United played grandly in defence, Groves especially tackling well and kicking strongly.  Annan also did well.  Needham was conspicuous by his smartness and good judgement among the home half-backs, who all did good work without, however, rising as a body to the greatness of the Everton trio.  Sheffield United; Leivesley; Groves, Annan; Johnson, W.H. Wilkinson, Needham; Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake, and Lipsham.  Everton; L.R. Roose; Balmer, Crelley; Booth, Taylor, Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee; T. Kirkham, Burslem. 

SHEFFIELD UNITED 1 EVERTON 0
January 9, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
BETTER TEAM LOSE.
So remarkable was the success which at tended Everton during the month of December, when seven League games- three on foreign soil- were contested without defeat that there confident hopes that even a visit to Bramell Lane would not stern the tide of success. Unfortunately these anticipations were not realised, though let it be said at once that Everton, though beaten by a goal to nil, were the better team on the day's play. It is rather singular that in each of the five away games, which the Evertonians have lost this season an odd goal, has led to their downfall. Moreover, in more than one instance the least bit of luck might have changed the verdict from a lose to a division of honours. In Saturday's game it was not so much a question of luck as of neglected opportunities on the part of the forwards. True, the goal which gave the Blades the victory was pretty much a grit, but still the visiting forwards were to blame for falling to utilise openings which their own splendid work had created.
THE GAME.
Considering the prominent positions in the League of the contending forces the equality of the play was rather disappointing. Truly the muddy conditions of the ground was all against accurate manipulation of the ball, indeed it was marvelous how the players kept their feet as well as they did. At times there was some very pretty footwork on both sides, were Everton for the greater part the clever, but there was an absence of that intense excitement which has usually characterised the meeting of the sides at Bramall lane. Everton started in promising style, and quite early on Young failed to convert a lovely centre from Hardman who later on was himself at fault. Another fine cross by Rankin only required a touch to divert into the net, but the ball passed over the line, before either of his colleagues could reach it. At the other end Donnelly sent wildly over the bar, with only Roose to beat, and the only dangerous shot which the Everton keeper had to negotiate came from Lipsham. In the earlier portion of the second half Everton exerted so much pressure that defeat seemed out of the question. They overplayed their opponents, but apart from Rankin, the forwards had apparently left their shooting boots at home. By their encouraging shouts the crowd stimulated the Blades, who eventually secured what luckily for them proved to be the winning goal. Everton were awarded a free kick near the corner flag. Crelly took the kick, but instead dispatching the ball down the field, by some mischance's or otherwise he lifted it in front of goal, where Drake had Roose helplessly beaten. In the closing stages. Everton might have equalised if a centre from Rankin had been properly dealt with, but a minute later United had an equally good opening. However, nothing materialised, and the Blades gained a narrow victory.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS
Although not individually the equal of their antagonists, Sheffield United have got together a rare lot of young and determined players. In fact, only four of the old United, team participated in the match, but if the well known names did not appear on the card the youngsters clearly showed their ability to maintain the traditions of the club. Leivesley kept goal in confident fashion, and was capitally supported by a couple of dashing backs in Groves and Annan. The halves with Needham at their head, were effective and forwards they were best served by Lang and Donnelly on the left wing, though Brown distributed the work well. The chief feature in Everton's display was the ineffectiveness of Young. It was one of his off-days, and the consequence was that neither of the inside men. McDermott and Settle played their usual game especially when it came to having a pop at goal. Hardman was speedy and tricky, but after all Rankin was the most conspicuous forwards several of his runs and centres extorting warm admiration from the Sheffield crowd. Roose's goalkeeping calls for no adverse criticism, and except for the one mistake, which led to the United's goal. Balmer and Crelly acquitted themselves admirably. Taylor again was in great form at centre half, and tried desperately hard to add another goal to his record. Abbott was a smart wing to contend against, while Booth after starting in shank style, pulled himself together, and rendered his side valuable service, though it is questionable if he retains his old aptitude for the right half back position. Teams: - Sheffield United: - Leivesley goal, Groves, and Annan backs Johnson, Wilkinson, and Needham (captain), half-backs Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake, and Lipham, forwards. Everton: - Roose, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Rankin McDermott, Young Settle and Hardman forwards. Referee Fred Kirkham

EVERTON RESERVES 3 STALYBRIDGE ROVERS 0
January 9, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division
NEW EVERTONIANS ON TRIAL
After sustaining two successful defeats. Everton's at Goodison-park on Saturday beat Stalybridge Rovers by three goals to nil. This game was a poor one throughout. There was a capital attendance, the attraction presumably being the appearance of three new men on the home side. These were Williams, a centre half from the army, Struthers, the Kirkdale centre-forward and Lipsham outside left, of Chester. The best of the trio was undoubtedly Williams, who gave promise of turning out a useful man. The Rovers backs overweighed Struthers, although he displayed any amount of bluck. He was handicapped by the slippery state of the ground, and often failed close to goal, but he is quite a lad, and in time may develop into a useful centre. Lipsham did practically nothing. Throughout McLoughlin in played a splendid game, and he was the finest forward on the field. Dilly, Hanlin, Hutchinson, Wildman. and Kitchen also did well, while the defence, Eaton and the Pattersons were most prominent for the Rovers. Williams, Hutchinson and Dilly scored for Everton. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Hanlin, Williams, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Roberts, McLoughlin, Struther, Dilly, and Lipsham, forwards.

FAMOUS FOOTBALLER AND HIS WIFE
January 10, 1905. Evening Telegraph
Remarkable Evidence in Police-Court
Some remarkable statements were made at Preston Borough Police Court yesterday, when James Trainer, the famous Old West International goalkeeper, was summoned by his wife, Alice for desertion. The parties married at Bolton in March, 1888, and had ten children. Mrs. Trainer-stated when they left the Horseshoe Hotel they were worth £2,000. They had led a cat and dog life, her husband being jealous of her on account of a man named Lazenby. On Wednesday last her husband brought a policeman to the house, and compelled her to leave. Under cross-examination Mrs. Trainer, admitted that in 1898 she had some trouble with her husband, who instituted divorce proceedings. She promised, however, to turn over a new leaf, and her husband took her back again and withdrew the petition for divorce. She admitted that her husband had frequently complained of her intimate friendship with Lazenby, and had disguised himself with false whiskers and followed her about. She admitted having had numerous drinks with Lazenby, but indignantly denied that anything improper had taken place between them. She also admitted saying to her husband on one occasion, “I will kill you, you ---,” but this was after she had recognized him in false whiskers as he followed her into a tramcar, and she had purposely taken too much drink. Lazenby went into the box, and denied there had been any improper relations between himself and Mrs. Trainer. Trainer gave evidence, and said his wife was of drunken habits and kept very late hours. He had frequently seen her in Lazenby's company, and on one occasion saw Lazenby crawling downstairs. He had watched them through a niche of the parlour door and the window, but had seen nothing improper transpire. He had seen notes pass between them. The bench refused to grant a separation order and dismissed the summons.

BERT SHARP SIGNS FOR SOUTHPORT CENTRE
Nottingham Evening Post - Friday 13 January 1905
Southport Central have secured the signature of Bert Sharp, brother of jack Sharp, of Everton. He will figure at left full back for the reserves in their Lancashire Alliance match at Haigh tomorrow.

NEWCASTLE UNITED BEATEN.
London Daily News - Monday 16 January 1905
The leaders were checked in their winning career on Saturday, the Everton team beating them at Goodison Park by two goals to one. Everton were without Crelly and Sharp, while the United were short of Veitch and Orr. Favoured with a strong breeze, the United pressed in the first half, and Howie scored. Roose, however, kept goal finely, and presently the Everton forwards took up the attack. At the interval, Newcastle were still leading by one goal to none. Play was fairly even for some time after the resumption. Then Everton attacked, and Rankin equalized. Settle scored the winning goal for Everton, who maintained the upper hand to the finish.

EVERTON 2 NEWCASTLE UNITED 1
January 16, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
GREAT GAME AT EVERTON.
THE LEADERS BEATEN
Everton accomplished what was generally expected of them last Saturday. They have a happy knack, when playing at home, of lowing the colours of the club, which happens to be making a bold for the championship. Last season for instance, they vanquished both Sheffield Wednesday, the ultimate champions, and Manchester City, the runners up, while earlier on they had themselves been beaten by unquestionably weakers sides. Thus it was that a feeling of confidence prevailed that they would be able to put a spoke in the wheel of the all-conquering. Newcastle United team, who by real merit had worked their way to the head of the League table. Anticipations were realised, for after one of the hardest fought and most exciting games which has been witnessed at Goodison-park for a long time, Everton proved victorious by two goals to one. The couple of points were by no means easily earned. It was not until well on in the second half that what turned out to be the great crowd greeted the winning goal with tumuluous cheering- quite in the style of the old days-. Still, clever undoubtedly as the League leaders are Everton on the day's play were value for the full measure of points.
A GAME OF GIANTS
Undoubtedly it was a game of giants. The strong southeasterly winds prevented if form becoming brilliant, but for real downright hard work on the part of two scientific teams it was from start to finish extremely interesting. Of course, the advantage of playing with the wind was obvious. No wonder that Newcastle asserted themselves during the opening half. Apart from their own innerent spirits they made full use of the favouring elements. The consequence was that Roose was served up with some particularly hot shots. Quite early on the Everton goal came near being captured, for both W. Balmer and the custodian sent the ball against the opponent. The amateur however, redeemed the mistake by a wonderful clearance. Considering the pressure to which it was subjected the home defence held out splendidly until, following a faulty pass by Booth, Appleyard tipped the ball to Howie, who ran between the backs and easily planted the ball into the net, during which time Everton were fruitless appealing for offside. Tem minutes before the interval, the home attack weakened up, but what with shots charged down somewhat luckily and the sturdy United defence, they were prevented from placing themselves on level terms. Having kept their formidable opponents from scoring more than a solitary goal, it was felt that the Evertonians would be able to turn the tables when they had the wind behind them. They did not start in too promising fashion. They were inclined to overdo the short passing, while the visiting attack were so dashing that Roose's position was no sinecure. At last Rankin electrified the crowd with a beautiful goal. Running past McWilliams and Carr, he let fly with his left foot, and gave Lawrence no possible chance. How the people did cheer, and how gallantly did Everton respond. For the nonce they discarded the irritating short passing, and flashed the ball about more, the result being that they swamped the Newcastle defence, and Settle sent the crowd wild with delight when he put on a second goal. United were then practically beaten, but they struggled on and shortly before the whistle blew, Roose emerged from a vigorous attack with flying colours.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS.
Criticism of the players in such an interesting trial of strength, where there were so many fine touches, must be of the mild description. Indeed one feels disinclined to suggest anything but praise. Both sides distinguished themselves, and though Newcastle United were beaten they had the satisfaction of knowing that it was through no lack of efforts. They are a remarkably strong team, smart and dashing in attack, with a rare trio of half-backs and a sterling rearguard. Lawrence in goal was not no frequently called upon as Roose, but he acquitted himself admirably. Aitkens was the most prominent of the halves who had behind them a couple of hardworking and very capable backs in McCombie and Carr. Forward, Appleyard did well in the centre, but the shinning light of the quintette was Howie, who not only scored the only goal for his side, but was ever on the look out for openings. Reference has already been made to the capital exhibition of Roose between the posts. The Balmers deserved all the commendation passed upon their efforts, the youngster brother's kicking and tackling being really high class. Taylor played another splendid game, but Booth was uneven, and was nothing like so effective as Abbott. Young has not yet settled down to his best game and the inside men played well without being especially noticeable. Hardman in the first half got in some pretty work, but all the same Rankin apart from his brilliant goal, was the most conspicuous forward on the side, his runs and centres extorting warm admiration. Teams: - Everton: - Roose goal, W.Balmer and R.Balmer, backs, Booth (captain), Taylor and Abbott half-backs Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle and Hardman, forwards. Newcastle United: - Lawrence goal, McCombie and Carr backs Gardiner, Aikens (captain), and Mcwilliams, half-backs Rutherford Howie, Appleyard, Graham, and Gasnell forwards. Referee J.Adams.

ST HELENS TOWN 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 16, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 22)
St Helens Town must be accounted unfortunate in not beating Everton as they experience very hard lines. They had only ten men for some time in the first half, and it was during that portion of the game, that Everton scored through Hutchinson. The Town also got a goal, but was negatived owing to one of the home players having been fouled, just previously and all fell to the home side was a free kick, which was cleared. Baxendale missed a glorious chance, but in the second portion the Town played with refreshing vigour, and Rigby scored. But for the good defence of Kitchen and Wildman, the Town would have won easily this half, as they had much the better of the play. The changes made in the team had beneficial results, the Town giving one of their best displays. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and McCartney backs, Hanlins, Williams, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Roberts McLoughlin, Dilly, McClure, and Evans, forwards.

Norman McClure
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Wednesday 18 January 1905
Mr. W. C. Cuff, the Everton secretary, has wired to Norman McClure, late of Linfield, and now of Derry, to come to Liverpool and play with the Everton Reserve on Saturday. It is most likely he will be signed on.

EVERTON AT DEEPDALE.
Lancashire Evening Post - Friday 20 January 1905
Everton’s appearance Preston will draw additional attraction, from the fact that recently as last week they defeated the League leaders. Again, Prestonians will not forget that it was Everton, who on September 24th, brought about North End’s first reverse this season. The margin by which the Toffees succeeded on that occasion was the smallest possible, only one goal being obtained in the game. Since that time the Everton team has improved and the players from a most able side. The forwards however, were not exactly at their best last week, however, were not exactly at their best last week, and in the team I have received from Mr. W.C. Cuff, the Everton secretary, there are several changes of special interest. Sharp returns to the forward line, and Rankin, who has been playing outside right so finely, makes way by moving inside. Rankin is a rare extreme winger in form, but I have never seen him inside, though Sharp has played there, even in an international match. Of course, if the arrangement fails, the pair can change positions. McDermott, the cleverly Scott, who usually plays inside right, goes centre, Young, who has been off colour, dropping out. Thus we have two men- Rankin and McDermott -out of their places. Settle and the old Blackpool forward, Harold Hardman, complete the attack. In defence the only alteration is the substitution of S.B. Ashworth for Booth, who was not sound last week. L.R. Roose keeps goal.

EVERTON DRAW WITH PRESTON.
London Daily News - Monday 23 January 1905
An interesting game between Preston North End and Everton at Preston ended a draw one goal each. Both sides made changes. The first half was evenly contested. McDermott scored for Everton after half an hour’s play, but subsequently the visitors were subjected to severe pressure. However, half-time arrived with Everton still leading. Both goalkeepers had plenty of work to do after change of ends. Smith equalized for Preston about ten minutes before the finish.

KEEN GAME AT PRESTON
Athletic News - Monday 23 January 1905
By Pavo
Having an excellent chance of the championship, Everton were exceedingly keen on winning at Preston, and they came so near the realization of their hopes that North End only equalized twelve minutes from time.  The visitors were probably feeling fairly secure, and it is certain that Prestonian supporters were making up their minds to defeat; but just when the game appeared lost and won the equalizer was unexpectedly secured, and the points were divided.  It would have been rough on North End had they been rough on North End had they been denied this goal which secured them half the spoils, for they were equal to their opponents, and attacked rather the more frequently.  The game was keen all though, but was contested with fairness, and neither side can complain either of the other or of the referee, which as it should be.  In the opening stages the North Enders were the more promising, and Bell led some smart advances against his old club.  Once, however, Sharp got away dangerously, and as he rounded Rodway the situation looked serious, for his comrades were waiting in a line for his centre, but after steadying himself he placed behind, this bring only one of the cases in which the ball proved too lively for the player to get it under complete control.  On the whole North End looked the more like scoring, but after half an hour’s play Settle tried a swift shot which glanced off an opponent for a corner.  Hardman placed the flag-kick well, and McBride in trying to clear ran a few yards out among the players in the goal mouth, though unluckily for Preston he failed to get the ball, which McDermott returned into goal before the keeper could regain his position.  Derbyshire made a valiant effort, and succeeded in hooking the ball out, but Mr. Lewis, on the goalline, had no hesitation in deciding that it had crossed the rubicon, and thus Everton took the lead.  Almost immediately after this the home forwards accomplished their best work, and severe struggles were seen near Roose, but the defence never slackened, and the equalizer did not come.  The North Enders opened the second half smartly, but after a while the game became more favourable to Everton, and a centre from Sharp might easily have brought a goal.  Then came a short Preston spurt, but there was no sign of the Everton defence giving way.  Twelve minutes from the close, however, one of the Evertonians, Settle, I think, gave a foul.  The free kick was well taken by Derbyshire, and a heat header by Percy Smith deflected the ball just inside the post to Roose’s left hand.  Neither side ever looked like getting ahead after this, except, perhaps, when Hardman tried a single-handed dash in which he was unsuccessful through the close attention of his opponents.  Strong defence marked the play of both sides, and it is not exactly complimentary to the forwards to point out that the only two goals were scored from a corner and a free kick.  Both sets of attackers were somewhat disappointing.  Special interest centred in the play of the forwards.  In the Preston quintette Turnbull, the Scottish centre forward, was making his second appearance at Deepdale, and Catterall displaced Bourne, whose form has been anything but good of late; while Everton experimented by playing Rankin inside right, and McDermott centre, the absentee being Young with an injured leg.  On the whole the changes were not conspicuously successful.  Taking the Preston attack first, one must say that Turnbull did not get through much initiatory work, the openings he made for himself and the passes he gave to the wings being comparatively few.  Something better had been expected after his fairly promising debut a fortnight earlier.  He is earnest and energetic, and follows up well, and perhaps he will prove that Saturday’s match did not show him in a true light in the other matters mentioned.  Catterall, who had not previously appeared at home in a league match, sent across some accurate centres, but he is not a forceful player, and his display was not an unqualified success, though he improved on Bourne’s recent exhibitions.  The right wing, Bond and Smith, would have been stronger no doubt had the former been fed better.  Bell was the pick of the attack, passing very skillfully to his partner.  The experiment which turned out best was that of placing McDermott as the Everton pivot.  His foot work, despite the difficulty of keeping good command over the ball on the hard ground, was delightful, and he often passed very effectively.  He and Settle were the most useful of the Everton forwards.  Hardman was a mixture, sometimes showing speed and cleverness, and then again finishing far more weakly than in his practice.  The right wing did not come off.  I do not think the hard surface suited Sharp, who seemed disinclined to risk a tumble, and Rankin was by no means the dashing, dangerous player we know as an extreme winger.  He appeared cramped and out of place and the wonder was that he and Sharp did not change places during the game, for the latter can play inside.  I liked both sets of defenders.  Whether McBride should have remained between the post in the case of Everton’s goal is a moot point, but his general goalkeeping was brilliant, and Roose too, played safely.  There was little to choose between the two pairs of backs.  The absence of Orrell through influenza gave Derbyshire an opportunity to prove that he is in capital form, and Rodway, who moved from left to right back when Orrell came into the team in December, was now able to recross to the left, Derbyshire playing right.  Rodway seemed more at home and played a clever game, showing great resource and sound judgement, though in point of pure pace Sharp was his master.  R. Balmer was more prominent than his brother, and I have not for some time seen a back who has kicked a better length.  Sometimes, perhaps, he kicked even too hard.  There was not a weak half-back in the whole six, and the two lines were nearly equal, though if one half shone above the others it was Lyon.  North End; McBride; Derbyshire, Rodway; Mclean, Hunter, Lyon; Bond, Smith, Turnbull, Bell, and Catteralll.  Everton; L.R. Roose; W. Balmer, R. Balmer; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, Rankin, McDermott, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee. J. Lewis, Blackburn. 

JOHN BREARLEY
Athletic News - Monday 23 January 1905
John Brearley, most times at left half-back, occasionally at centre forward, is a stylist.  He covers the ground with a long, raking stride at more than an average rate with a minimum amount of exertion.  He will toy with the ball with seeming indifference, or he will go out to meet the foe with the self-confidence of the real artist.  There is no suggestion of hurry.  In a trice he takes in the situation.  And once he has made up his mind he acts.  There is no waiting.  And yet all the time there is about his methods apparently a delightful unconcernedness.  Spruce and dapper, with the face of a perfect athletic; the face that denotes careful training and much reserve strength, you are drawn to the man immediately he comes on to the field.  He is full of purpose in all he does, and playing now as well, if not better, than at any time in his varied career, this young man of Tottenham is bound to have high honours to wandering, but really determined to get conferred upon him before the end of the present campaign.  He fully justified his selection in the trial game at Tottenham last Monday, and if he enjoys immunity from accidents he must be a strong candidate for a cap from his country.  Brearley’s coming south has been the development of the ability which he showed on the eve of his career.  He has never looked back since he accepted the invitation to join the “Spurs”  When I saw him at the North London ground the other day he looked as well conditioned and as youthful as when he was about to climb the ladder of his profession.  He is one of those players who threatens to retain an almost remarkable juvenile appearance.  Not that there is any suggestion of the sere and yellow stage about him, for he was born as recently as 1876, at Liverpool.  Apparently prone as much experience as possible before pitching his tent permanently, he has been with many clubs.  And it is because he has sought many changes that one is apt to put him with the veterans.  Those who might feel inclined to regard him as an old warrior-please note the year of his birth.  And in enjoining the large arms of “Athletic News” readers to be cautions in the matter of Brearley’s age let me tell one short little story.  I ran against a well-known Southern League player last week who was very much perturbed because he had been affectionately called the “old war horse.”  “Not easily put out,” he almost pathetically complained, “but I am the ‘old war-horse’ at 24 well- The aggrieved young man now carries his birth certificate about with him.  He fears that by the time he ends his career he will be spoken of as “that fine, lusty 50-year-old.” 

Brearley’s passion for football, and indeed all healthy sports, showed itself at the schoolboy age.  His first club was Liverpool South End.  He was ready to fill, and as a matter of fact did, more than one position, and he showed such promise that he had not got very far in his first season when there were anxious inquiries from the outside.  The result was that he was transferred to Notts County and in his first match made history.  The engagement was with Burnley in the Test matches and he scored a goal which meant to his club the difference between the First and the second League.  Middleborough then struggling for promotion, afterwards claimed service, and his stay there was one long success.  He did much to win for the club the advance they desired from the Second League company.  Everton, slow to recognize his worth when in Liverpool junior football, succeeded in securing his transfer from Middlesbrough, but his stay at Goodison Park did not present the possibilities he had hoped for, and with characteristic determination to get right in the very front of his profession, set out to tap the South.  Liverpool, and indeed several other clubs, would have liked to have obtained his transfer, but while negotiations were pending shrewd Johnie Cameron came upon the scene and carried off the prize.  His first opportunity to show his value was when Tom Morris fell sick.  Up to this time he was more seriously regarded as a forward, but he proved that he was gifted with rare versatility.  He did great work in the Cup-ties as the substitute to work in the Cup-ties as the substitute to Morris.  I verily believe that he would do well in any department.  He has the power of readily adapting himself to circumstances, and it is a because of his exceeding usefulness coupled with undoubted skill that he is a prime favourable at Tottenham.  By the way, let me add that he returned to Nottingham after excellent service with Millwall.  Breareley, who stands 5ft 9ins, and weighs a trifle more than 11st, is a very intelligent young man who thinks for himself, and has all the level-headedness of the typical Lancastrian.  He is, in short, one of the best players and most thoughtful young men in football today.  B.B.

PRESTON NORTH END 1 EVERTON 1
January 23, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
A HARD GAME
Everton missed a rare chance at Deepdale of figuring for the second time this season at the head of the League table. For eight minutes looked as if the honours were to fall to the lot of the Evertonians. Then an equalising goal turned up in aggravating style, and the proud Prestonians had the satisfaction of sharing with their old opponent. Thus it was that although Newcastle United Sunderland, and Sheffield United were all on the losing side, Everton only go up to second place with the same number of points as the Nocasterians, but with one game more played. However, there is no use moralising over what might have been. After an exceedingly hard game the result was a draw of one goal each, and be it conceded the score just about represented the merits of the contestants. It would have been hard lines on North End if they had lost and vice versa. Therefore, fortune was fair in awarding a point to each team. At any rate, Everton this season have taken three out of four points from the Prestonians, who at the end of September were beaten at Goodison-park by a goal to nothing.
CLEVERNESS VERSUS DASH.
Considering the frost bound ground, which necessitated a plentiful sprinkling of sand, the game reached a higher standard than was anticipated, and throughout provided the large crowd with any number of interesting incidents. It was in the main case of cleverness opposed to dash. Undoubtedly Everton were the smarter side and stood the strain better, but against all the science which they exhibited the North End players imparted into the work an amount of determination and whole heartedness which compelled admiration. In fact they had more chances of scoring than had Everton, but at the crucial moment they became flurried, and as often as not the ball instead of going near Roose went yards wide of the mark. Opening strongly they kept the brothers Balmers, and Roose on the quivive, and, fortunately for the visiting side, this trio were as safe as houses. The Evertonians settled down after a while, and following a corner, McDermott called upon McBride, who only reached the ball when it was well over the line. This success for the nonce seemed to have a disheartening effect upon the home players, but the defence prevented anything more being scored prior to the interval. Later on their was a ding-dong struggle in which, both custodians earned well-deserved applause. With only ten minutes to go the equalising goal arrived, it arose from a free kick against Settle. The ball was swung into the goalmouth, and after a bully, Smith planted it into the net. Both sides kept hard at it to the end without tangible result, and the whistle for the cessation of the game was heartily welcomed by more than one of the North End players, who were showing signs of fatigue.
THE PLAYERS.
Fine goalkeeping by Roose and McBride had a lot to do with the low scoring. Both kept out some capital shots, and one save of Mcbride from Hardman was particularly smart. Derbyshire's reappearance in the back division had the effect of strengthening Preston's defence, he and Rodway both playing admirably. The halves, with Hunter in the centre, adopted worrying tactics with successful results, but the outsiding result of the attack was the staving of Bond their clever outside right. Catterall shaped only moderately on his first appearance in a league match at Deepdale. As for John Bell, he seems to be endowed with something like perpetual youth. He went all the way and played a really sound game. The rearrangement of the Everton front line was scarcely a success, although McDermott was a hard worker in the centre, and fed his wings with judgement. Neither Sharp nor Hardman was in his happiest vein. They both did clever things, but they were erratic. Rankin is not at home in an inside position, though he tried his best and rendered his side useful services. With the exception of Ashworth who halves were on the top of their form, and the brothers Balmer at back performed creditably, though on one occasion the acting captain nearly let his side down through a miskick then near goal. Teams: - Preston North End: - McBride, goal, Derbyshire, and Rodway, backs, McLean, McLean, and Hunter, half-backs, Lyon, Bond, Smith, Bell (captain), and Carrerall, forwards. Everton: - Roose goal, W.Balmer (captain), and R.Balmer, backs, Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, Rankin, McDermott, Settle and Hardman, forwards. Referee John Lewis.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 0
January 23, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 23)
The frostbound state of the ground had its effect upon the players at Goodison-park, where Everton and Preston North End Reserves played a goaless draw. The game was a poor one, even allowing for the state of the ground. Everton had rather the best of matters, but the finishing efforts of the forwards were woefully weak. North End, on the other hand, although beaten in midfield, were always dangerous when near goal, and had they as many chances as the home forwards they would probably have captured both points. From start to finish play was tame, and the only noticeable features were some capital goalkeeping on the part of Taylor, good play by both sets of backs, and the fine half-back play of Williams (Everton), and Wilcox (Preston). Thorburn made his first appearance since his accident in the practice match, but little was seen of him, Dilly, and McLoughlin being the best forwards. Rodgers McKie, and Bourne did good work among the Preston quintette . Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman and McCartney backs, Hanlins Williams, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Roche, McLoughlin, Thornburn Dilly, and Evans forwards.

DEATH OF DAVID STORRIER
January 27, 1910 Evening Telegraph
Arbroath Footballer
Who Played For Scotland In Internationals
The death occurred at Panmure Street, Arbroath, of Mr. David Storrier, the well known footballer. Deceased had been in indifferent health for a considerable period, and latterly his condition gave rise t no hope of recovery. He commenced his football career in the Arbroath Dauntless, at that time a well-known local combination. He then played in Arbroath as centre-half, securing several inter-county honours. From Arbroath he went to Everton, first playing in the second Everton, and then as full back in the first eleven. Storrier crossed the Border again and signed on with the Celtic. While with the Glasgow team in 1899 he received several international honours, besides captaining Celtic, which that year secured the Scottish cup. He played in the Scottish team against England along with Doig, of Abroath, in goal. After a term with the Celtic he signed on for Dundee, and afterwards returned to England, joining Millwall. Six or seven years ago he retired from the game, and started business in Arbroath.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON.
Lancashire Evening Post - Friday 27 January 1905
Everton have secured the services of another amateur half-back, Mr. Fred Littleton, who has been seen this season in the ranks of both Waterloo Marine and Northern Nomads Clubs.

EVERTON TAKE THE ELAD
London Daily News - Monday 30 January 1905
Middleborough made a good fight with the Everton eleven at Liverpool, and in the end were only beaten by one goal to none. Neither side was fully represented. Play did not reach a high standard in the first half. Everton did most of the pressing, but the interval arrived with nothing scored. Everton opened strongly in the second half, but Williamson kept a fine goal for Middlesbrough. However, he was at length beaten by Makepeace. Chances were missed on both sides, the winners goal suffering a very narrow escape. Everton are now at the top of the League table.

EVERTON’S PENALTY POINTS
Athletic News - Monday 30 January 1905
By Harricus
If ever a match was a good thing before-hand for one team, it was surely that at Goodison Park on Saturday, for Everton were second from the top of the table and Middleborough second from the wrong end, but the uncertainty of the game, as viewed from a table point of view, was once more exemplified.  True, Middlesbrough did not bring off a coup, and true also both points went to Everton, but all the same it has to be recorded that the Everton club is at the head of the table, all owing to a penalty, for the forwards failed to find the net by the orthodox method of over-powering the Northerners’ defence.  As a matter of fact, it was a half-back who scored, to the relief of a crowd of some 14,000.  Of course, the Everton directors had to make compulsory alterations which could hardly tend to strengthen the side.  Jack Sharp, for instance, could not turn out, Ashworth was advised by his doctor to stand down, and both backs were unavailable, but they may all be fit next week for the Cup-tie, while there is also a possibility of Tom Booth turning out again.  Under the circumstances it is perhaps as well to be charitable with the failings of the Evertonians, particularly as they won.  I feel sure though that the Middlesbrough people would have been delighted had Makepeace missed with the penalty kick, for an away point to them would undoubtedly have inspired them to further improve their record.  It was not to be though.  Last week I attended a match at which Linacre proved that he is in the very top flight of custodians, and on Saturday Williamson showed that he, too, is without a superior.  His wonderful display was another reason for Everton not winning more readily than they did, yet he was artfully deceived by Makepeace when the latter took the penalty kick after a quarter of an hour of the second half.  I understand that the Everton players are not penalty experts, but when Makepeace was tried with one the other week he counted.  Therefore he was given the task of beating Williamson, which he did in that quiet confident manner which should decide who should operate in future when he is in the team.  The play in the first half was of a very ordinary order, and the crowd got quite disgusted with the home team.  The players evidently received special instructions during the interval to go in and win, for they were certainly more serious, and Middleborough were shown as decidedly the interior side; but after the winning goal had been scored they again lapsed into those methods which annoyed their supporters and the Northerners might easily have equalized in the last ten minutes or so; but twice Thackeray missed golden opportunities, and so, too, did Gettins.  Although Everton were not at their best, they were good enough to allow Williamson to prove that he was the hero of the game.  In the very first minute of the game he showed what he could do by disposing of a fine dropping cross by Rankin, while Young later on really deserved a goal, but Williamson said nay.  Then not long after the resumption Taylor put in a beauty which would have scored nine times out of ten.  This happened to be the tenth, for Williamson handed the ball over the bar, and directly afterwards he gave another corner from a direct shot from a free kick; in fact it was Williamson’s day out, and it seemed a pity that he should have had a penalty kick to deal with.   He had a pair of dour backs to protect him for McCallum (late of Liverpool) and Agnew (late Newcastle) both tackled and kicked splendidly.  Jones, the old West Bromwich man, was brought into the team again as centre half, but he was only one of the old Smith, Jones, and Davidson trio.  Moreover, he justified his inclusion, for he was the best of the line.  The forwards lacked a leader, for Astley had not the necessary influence over his wings, nor did he bustle about enough.  Bobby Atherton was very tricky, but his cleverness did not make that headway his abilities should have done, while his partner, Gettins seemed to lack First division tactics.  The left wing was by far the best, and Roberts, who seems to have thickened considerably was the star of the forwards.  He certainly gave an excellent account of himself, and Thackeray has a good understanding with him.  Of the Everton team, I must be said that they gave one the appearance of saving themselves.  There was nothing wrong with that providing they had a goal or two in hand, but the forwards did not play for goals.  The inside men, particularly Young and McDermott, worked in too little space, and apparently took it for granted that the match was always won.  But these easy things do not always come off.  The two outside men were by far the more business-like in their methods.  Rankin’s star shone principally in the first half, but Hardman, like the outside left on the other side, was good throughout.  And what a plucky little fellow he is to be sure.  The half-back line was the best part of the team.  The many appearances of Harry Makepeace in the premier eleven have had the effect of improving his knowledge of League play, with a corresponding improvement in his own tactics, and there is no doubt that he is a capital little half back.  He was also of great assistance to Wildman when the latter was in difficulties.  Taylor was a hard-worker –he cannot help but be- and Abbott was pretty fair, though I have seen him play better.  Both the reserve backs were on view.  Robert Balmer is profiting by his association with the League team, just as Makepeace has done, and there is no doubt that he is quite capable of appearing as a regular.  Wildman did not strike me so favourably, but he had the best wing to face, and I should not be surprised to see him make headway.  Roose was not troubled much, for after all the Middlesbrough forwards were not the sort of fellows to upset a custodian of the caliber of the Welsh International.  Middlesbrough; Williamson; McCullam, Agnew; Aitkens, Jones, Cassidy; Gettins, Atherton, Astley, Thackeray, and Roberts.  Everton; L.R. Roose; Wildman, Balmer (R.); Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee; J.W. Bailey, Leicester. 

EVERTON 1 MIDDLESBROUGH 0
January 30, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
A MODERATE DISPLAY.
No great satisfaction could be derived from the game at Goodison-park on Saturday, except, of course the all-important fact that a couple of points accured to Everton. It was by no means a great match; indeed in the opinion of not a few good judges, it was the poorest which has been seen for many a long day. There were occasions when smart touches were introduced, but the general scheme was lacking in many directions. The spectators were disappointed, especially as they had turned up, not to see the Everton forwards vainly endeavouring to find the net, but in the full expectation that it would be a case of rubbing in to poor Middlesbrough. As matters eventuated Everton only just scrambled home by a goal to nil, and that goal the outcome of a penalty kick. Thus Middlesbrough maintained their record of failure in the scoring line at Goodison-park. Indeed, in all the League matches they have played in this city against Everton or Liverpool, Middlesbrough have never had the satisfaction of obtaining a solitary goal.
THE PLAY.
From the manner in which the Evertonians started there were hopes that the spectators would be treated to an inspiriting game, but it was soon evident that such was not to be the case. The home attack did open out the game enough, and the Middlesbrough lot were obviously quite at sea when a chance of scoring came along. Quite early on Roberts made a sad mess of a glorious chance of beating Roose, but he was not alone to blame. Everton undoubtedly had the bulk of the play, and although the plan of attack could scarcely be commended several grand shots were levelled at Williamson who gave a fine exhibition of goalkeeping. When the second half was entered it was hoped that the anxiously awaited goals would be forthcoming, and certainly Taylor and Abbott might easily have beaten an ordinary custodian, but not Williamson. One felt sorry for the latter when his colours were at last lowered. However, he could not be blamed, for Makepeace repeated his Small Heath success, and converted a penalty kick , against Gallium for fouling Young, with the greatest easy. As it happened this proved to be the only occasion when the ball was placed in the net, though just before the finish only a magnificent effort on the part of Roose prevented Middlesbrough equalising.
ABOUT THE PLAYERS.
The feature of the game was the strong defence of Middlesbrough. Williamson who has previously been seen to advantage at Goodison-park, gave a great exhibition, and he had in front of him a couple of resolute backs in McCullum and Agnew. Aitkens, Jones and Cassidy were a worrying trio of halves, with the centre man inclined too often to indulge in unfair tactics. As to the forwards one cannot wonder at Middlesbrough's poor record of “goals for” They were quite unable to utilise the easiest of chances, and, except on one or two occasions, gave Roose no cause of anxiety. The best part of the Everton side-apart from Roose- was the half-back line. Some of the best attempts at scoring of the afternoon came from Taylor and Abbott, and did not Makepeace obtain the winning goal. Wildman and Young Balmer were none too safe, and it was rather a pity on his first League appearance that the former had not the advantage of playing along with an experienced artist like W.Balmer or Crelly. None of the forwards earned distinction, the mistake at times of one or the other being tantalising in the extreme. Neither Hardman nor Rankin was as successful as usual. The display of the whole team was disappointing. Can it be that they were reserving themselves for a famous Cup-tie next Saturday?
Teams: - Everton: - Roose goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs, Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. Middlesbrough: - Williamson, goal, McCullum, and Agnew, backs, Aitkens, Jones, and Cassidy half-backs Darrant, Brunton, Mounteney, Thackeray, and Roberts, forwards. Referee J.W.Badley