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.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 02 January 1905
Everton have dealt very severely with the Notts clubs at Goodison Park this season, and by a strange coincidence they vanquished the County by the same score that they routed the Forest on November 5th, the verdict in their favour being 5-1. And truth to tell, there was almost as much disparity between the efficiency of the respective sides as there was difference between the final figures of each and football seems to be in a poor way at Nottingham just at present. The team which represented the County against Everton never thoroughly extended the latter who at one time had gained a lead of four clear goals, and having thus secured a winning advantage the home players off somewhat, and Notts were thereby enabled to display more satisfactory form than at any other period of the game. Ten minutes elapsed before the first goal came, and this was the result of some clever work by Taylor, which Sharp clinched by driving the ball at Earle, who failed to hold it, and Everton were placed one head. The right winger was also concerned in the second point, which came seven minutes later, for it was form a cross by him, following a corner forced by McLoughlin, that enabled the inside left to smartly place the leather into the net. Several capital efforts were made by Gee, and from a corner he sent the ball against the upright, from whence it rebounded into play and the Everton goal had a narrow escape. But when near Roose the Notts forwards became a very ordinary set, and the custodian had not a solitary difficult shot to stop. Just before the interval McDermott cleverly gained an opening for Sharp, and the extreme winger cantered gaily along, finally sending across a high shot, which Earle endeavoured to clear, but Hardman bobbed up and headed into goal before the Notts keeper could get to the ball. In the second half the visitors were quickly in difficulties, and they never looked like troubling the Everton custodian. A shot from Young was handled inside the penalty area but the referee disregarded the claims of the home players. However, Taylor soon obliged with a fourth goal, and then Notts had a turn. Their untiring left wing gained a corner, and after some refreshing exchanges near Roose the ball came out to Humphreys, who made no mistake with his shot. Had Notts demonstrated more deadliness near goal they must have scored on two other occasions, and once Reid headed just outside the upright. Everton in responses to the cries of their supporters returned to the attack and Abbott put on the fifth and last point. Forward, Everton were much the superior side, and by way of a change the right wing was the more effective portion of the line. McDermott was to a great extent responsible for the alteration, and there was method in every move he made. He swung the ball out to his partner in delightful style and the extreme winger had a hand in the scoring of the first three goals. Young played a useful game in the centre, despite the fact that several of his passes meant for the wings went astray. The tactics of the Notts full backs in keeping wide apart suited his game admirably, and Young invariably shines under conditions of this character. Hardman and Sharp were the most noticeable, perhaps by reason of their dashing runs, and the perfect centres of the latter were a direct temptation to goal scoring. McLoughlin, though not so clever with his feet as Settle, has a capital idea of the location of the net, and gave a decidedly useful display. Some variety was witnessed in the rear division. Abbott and Taylor were the pick of the half-backs, and they completely bottled up the Notts right wing and centre. Each of them also scored, and their work all round left no room for complaint. Ashworth was responsible for some dainty touches, but he was easily beaten in a tussle by the Notts left wing, and Gee was frequently able to leave him in the rear. At full back the younger Balmer was not seen at his best, and as a consequence the more experienced brother was compelled to keep an eye on both wings. The kicking was not reliable, and had the Notts forward been at all nippy in pouncing upon the chances which came their way they must have given Roose an anxious time. The latter had, however, a very easy journey, and his position was almost a sinecure. Notts were very disappointing, and though they made some creditable efforts in midfield, they finished feebly, and this nullified all their work. Gee put in some capital runs and centres, and he was by far the most effective of the front rank. At half back Humphreys alone shaped prominently; but Notts could well have done with this rousing player in the attacking line. The full backs were only moderate, though they kicked well when allowed ample room. In goal, Earle did not impress one with his display, for he was beaten on two occasions when he should have averted defeat. Judging from their performance in this match. Notts are in their proper position at the lowest rung of the League ladder.

LIVERPOOL v  EVERTON
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 02 January 1905
Liverpool Cup
ANFIELDERS IN FORM
AN ENTHISASTIC FINISH
Liverpool and Everton met this 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 in the following order :—
Liverpool: Doig, goal; West and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck, 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. A grand run was made by Hardman, who finished with an accurate centre. 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 fisting away the free kick. The game was followed with great interest by the crowd, whose partiality found free vent.
TONG GOT POSSESSION, despite the efforts of Raisbeck, 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 off-side, his shot, however, being charged 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 Raisbeck put in a fine effort from long range, the Everton custodian AGAIN SAVING WELL. McDermot gave Rankin a chance, but Raisbeck 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 off-side. 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 McDermot 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, Raisbeck averting a disaster at the expense of a fruitless corner. A centre from Ludlow 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 off 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 Raisbeck cleared at the expense of a corner, which was put behind. A rush by the Liverpool right was checked by Taylor. 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 Leaguers thus got the first goal of the day against their “classy”” opponents. Goddard afterwards sent behind, and a few minutes later Hardman was hurt in colliding with Doig, who ran out to clear. He limped to the side of the field, but goon resumed. Everton then pressed, and a bully ensued in the home goal, Taylor putting the ball through. A minute later the whistle sounded the interval. Half-time.—Liverpool 1, Everton 1.
The first incident of note 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 Mayor (Mr. John Lea) arrived at this stage to present the cup to the winners, and he took a seat in the directors’ 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 a goal ahead. Everton had the best of play after this, although the forward play was rather spoiled by a tendency to get offside. They forced a couple of corners, but without avail, and a dash to the other by Liverpool was equally fruitless, although Scott had to save from Cox. The game continued full of interest,
BOTH SIDE STRIVING HARD
After fast and even play Cox dashed off on his own, and 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 again, putting Liverpool ahead by four goals to one. Liverpool thus once more gained the cup. Final.—Liverpool 4, Everton 1.
PRESENTING THE CUP.
The cup was presented by the Lord Mayor to Raisbeck. 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 director of the Everton Club, seconded by Ald, E. Walker.

SOUTHPORT CENTRAL v  EVERTON RESERVE
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 02 January 1905
LANCASHIRE ALLIANCE
Played at Southport, before a big gate. Teams;
Southport: Garvey, goal; Spink and Rimmer, backs; Sinclair, Edmonds, and Chorlton, half-backs; Dawson, Rishton, Smith, Danson, and Lawson, forwards.
Everton: Dent, goal; Balmer and Wildman, backs; Ritchie, Booth, and Hutchinson, half-backs; M‘Adam, Colmell, Roberts, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.
Southport won the toss, and the Mayor (Mr. E. Trounson) 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 Lawson took the ball along, and the former, after tricking Ritchie, passed to Lawson, 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 attempt so far out McAdam 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 came 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 Céntral, and the Everton forwards showed very pretty work, but the home half-backs were generally able to break up their combination. Halt 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. Three-quarter time: Southport 2, Everton nil.  Final.—Southport Central 2, Everton Res. 0.

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Monday 02 January 1905
(Liverpool Cup)
VICTORY FOR LIVERPOOL
So long as the Liverpool Cup contest exists there will be considerable interest in the final struggle between the Anfielders and the Evertonians. The executive were particularly happy in selecting a day when a large section of the community will find themselves at liberty to enjoy an exhibition of the football art, which promised to be not only interesting and scientific but imbued with that keen spirit of rivalry which is such a healthy characteristic of both teams, and perhaps particularly so at the present moment. The teams lined up as follow;-
Everton.- Scott; Balmer (Captain) and Crelly; Hanlin, Taylor, and Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and Hardman.
Liverpool.- Doig; West and Dunlop; Parry, Raisbeck, and Wilson; Goddard, Robinson, Cox, Morris, and Fleming. Referee- Mr. Horrocks.
There were fully 25,000 spectators present when Young led off, and his opening move led to a spirited advances from the Everton right, from whence Rankin centred neatly, and the Reds almost immediately found themselves in difficulty, as Dunlop quite failed to stem the advance; and after West had also missed fire Parry came to the rescue with a neat clearance, of which Cox took advantage and made off up the centre, when Crelly brought him to a standstill smartly. After this Everton’s front rank got into swing, and Young receiving a neat centre beat Doig with a very bad shot, but unfortunately for the Blues a claim for offside was sustained. Liverpool now put forth gallant efforts, and the war was waged for a time in Everton territory, but the Reds were not really dangerous and Crelly and Balmer both behaved with great resumed after an entrance down the right, and Doig had a warm time from frontal attacks, but he fisted out gallantly from McLoughlin and Young. The pressure extended so far by the Blues was very severe, and pointed pretty clearly to ultimate success. After resisting this spell of sustained pressure Fleming and Morris went off with a splendid burst, and Crelly was quite unable to repel Fleming. Fleming put across rather swifty to Morris, who missed the pass, and Cox, who was well up, let drive at Scott, who only just managed to defeat the intention of the Anfield centre-forward. This was a most exciting spell, and was most creditable to the Reds, who did everything but score. The next stage was a move up the Everton centre, and for some time the battle waxed fast and furious, until Parry removed operations. McLoughlin soon returned and tested Doig, who repelled a dangerous shot coolly enough. Then Wilson and McDermott had a little struggle, and subsequently altercations. A pretty pass forward from Taylor to Young was centralised by a very neat clearance by Webb, who robbed the Everton centre cleverly. The game was now very fast, but of an even character. At last Everton very nearly worked the oracle, s Hardman put into the goalmouth accurately, where Raisbeck was covering Doig. Rankin and McLoughlin made several efforts to find an opening at close quarters and finally a beautiful swift shot from McLoughlin was headed out by Doig in wonderful fashion. A splendid opening was worked up to at last by the Anfielders, but only to end in disappointment. Cox got possession at centre and passed it very correctly to Fleming, who came along unopposed and then presented Robinson with a beautiful opening. He easily eluded Crelly and Balmer, and took the ball coolly up to Scott, but in a most unaccountable fashion instead of netting, according to the general expectation, he sent the ball yards wide of the line. At last the long wished for goal fell to the Reds who had worked splendidly in the face of numerous disappointment. Wilson, in checking the Everton centre, put the ball across to the left, when Fleming sailed along in company with Cox and Robinson, who received Fleming’s pass, between them, and, although badly hampered by Hanlin and Crelly, Robinson attended by Cox, carried the ball right into the goalmouth, Scott being powerless. Soon after the restart Hardman got away out by himself, and looked like being dangerous at the finish, but Doig just anticipated the Everton forwards, and rushing out, brought him to grass heavily, and it was some minutes before Hardman was able to resume. Everton kept up the pressure, and very rapid work took place in front of Doig, McDermott and McLoughlin were prominent, and Taylor rushing in at the last minute, beat Doig fairly and squarely and equalised just before the interval.  Half-time- Everton 1, Liverpool 1.
Restarting, Everton were pressing continuously for fully fifteen minutes, during which time Doig twice narrowly escaped defeat. After Fleming had taken the ball down by himself Cox failed to take his centre comfortably when in a splendid position. Goddard took possession and tried to centre, Scott not judging the direction of the ball, which travelled on and found the corner of the net, amidst the applause of the Anfield supporters. Cox raced away by himself, and, though closely followed by three opponents, he kept well in front, and put the issue of the game beyond all doubt by scoring a glorious goal. Final.- Liverpool 4, Everton 1.

SOUTHPORT CENTRAL v  EVERTON RESEVRE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 02 January 1905
(Lancashire Combination)
At Southport to-day, before a large crowd. The Major, Councillor Trounson, kicked off for Everton, but the Central were the first to attack, both Dawson and Smith having shots at goal. Then Everton got down and Colman shot outside. From this the Central left wing got possession and Lawson put a shot beyond the reach of Dent, Central thus scoring in the first six minutes. At half time Central led by 1 goal to nil, during the interval the Rifle Volunteers’ Band played selections and a collection was made for Turner, one of the home team’s injured players.
Final.- Southport Central 2, Everton nil.

NORTHERN NOMADS v  SHEFFIELD
Liverpool Echo - Monday 02 January 1905
At Goodison Park, before a poor attendance. The Nomads started with ten men. The opening stages of the initial half were contested in ding dong fashion. Towards the end, however, the Nomads put in some good work, but their work in the open was spoiled by their wretched attempts at goal, and the interval arrived with no score.

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.

LIVERPOOL CUP
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 03 January 1905
EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Everton.- Scott; Balmer (Captain) and Crelly; Hanlin, Taylor, and Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and Hardman.
Liverpool.- Doig; West and Dunlop; Parry, Raisbeck, and Wilson; Goddard, Robinson, Cox, Morris, and Fleming. Referee- Mr. Horrocks.
There were fully 25,000 spectators present when Young led off, and his opening move led to a spirited advances from the Everton right, from whence Rankin centred neatly, and the Reds almost immediately found themselves in difficulty, as Dunlop quite failed to stem the advance; and after West had also missed fire Parry came to the rescue with a neat clearance, of which Cox took advantage and made off up the centre, when Crelly brought him to a standstill smartly. After this Everton’s front rank got into swing, and Young receiving a neat centre beat Doig with a very bad shot, but unfortunately for the Blues a claim for offside was sustained. Liverpool now put forth gallant efforts, and the war was waged for a time in Everton territory, but the Reds were not really dangerous and Crelly and Balmer both behaved with great resumed after an entrance down the right, and Doig had a warm time from frontal attacks, but he fisted out gallantly from McLoughlin and Young. The pressure extended so far by the Blues was very severe, and pointed pretty clearly to ultimate success. After resisting this spell of sustained pressure Fleming and Morris went off with a splendid burst, and Crelly was quite unable to repel Fleming. Fleming put across rather swifty to Morris, who missed the pass, and Cox, who was well up, let drive at Scott, who only just managed to defeat the intention of the Anfield centre-forward. This was a most exciting spell, and was most creditable to the Reds, who did everything but score. The next stage was a move up the Everton centre, and for some time the battle waxed fast and furious, until Parry removed operations. McLoughlin soon returned and tested Doig, who repelled a dangerous shot coolly enough. Then Wilson and McDermott had a little struggle, and subsequently altercations. A pretty pass forward from Taylor to Young was centralised by a very neat clearance by Webb, who robbed the Everton centre cleverly. The game was now very fast, but of an even character. At last Everton very nearly worked the oracle, s Hardman put into the goalmouth accurately, where Raisbeck was covering Doig. Rankin and McLoughlin made several efforts to find an opening at close quarters and finally a beautiful swift shot from McLoughlin was headed out by Doig in wonderful fashion. A splendid opening was worked up to at last by the Anfielders, but only to end in disappointment. Cox got possession at centre and passed it very correctly to Fleming, who came along unopposed and then presented Robinson with a beautiful opening. He easily eluded Crelly and Balmer, and took the ball coolly up to Scott, but in a most unaccountable fashion instead of netting, according to the general expectation, he sent the ball yards wide of the line. At last the long wished for goal fell to the Reds who had worked splendidly in the face of numerous disappointment. Wilson, in checking the Everton centre, put the ball across to the left, when Fleming sailed along in company with Cox and Robinson, who received Fleming’s pass, between them, and, although badly hampered by Hanlin and Crelly, Robinson attended by Cox, carried the ball right into the goalmouth, Scott being powerless. Soon after the restart Hardman got away out by himself, and looked like being dangerous at the finish, but Doig just anticipated the Everton forwards, and rushing out, brought him to grass heavily, and it was some minutes before Hardman was able to resume. Everton kept up the pressure, and very rapid work took place in front of Doig, McDermott and McLoughlin were prominent, and Taylor rushing in at the last minute, beat Doig fairly and squarely and equalised just before the interval.  Half-time- Everton 1, Liverpool 1.
Restarting, Everton were pressing continuously for fully fifteen minutes, during which time Doig twice narrowly escaped defeat. After Fleming had taken the ball down by himself Cox failed to take his centre comfortably when in a splendid position. Goddard took possession and tried to centre, Scott not judging the direction of the ball, which travelled on and found the corner of the net, amidst the applause of the Anfield supporters. Cox raced away by himself, and, though closely followed by three opponents, he kept well in front, and put the issue of the game beyond all doubt by scoring a glorious goal. Just before the finish Goddard scored a fourth goal for Liverpool. Final.- Liverpool 4, Everton 1.
The Knowsley party attended the match, reaching the ground by motor-car. At the close of the match the medals and cup were presented to the winning team. The Hon. Miss Victor Stanley presented the medals. The Liverpool players received a tremendous ovation when they lined up to receive their medals. On the motion of Dr. Whitford, one of the Everton directors seconded by Alderman Ephriam Walker, a hearty vote of thanks was proposed to the Lord Major, to which his lordship responded.

WON ON THEIR MERITS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 03 January 1905
LIVERPOOL’S GREAT FOOTBALL VICTORY OVER EVERTON
By Bee
Liverpool F.C have won the Liverpool Cup for the fourth time, and as Everton farmed the trophy for so many years the set back was a very hard one for the Blues. The Anfield ground yesterday presented a wonderful sight. The sea of faces swayed to and fro, and when the crowd gathered around the victors and the Lord Mayor and the Hon Mrs. Stanley, it seemed probable that something serious would happened in the way of accidents. However, all went well and there were many glad hearts- and many sad ones, too. Here we saw the team third on the leader of First Division fame, and with every prospect of gaining second best position, outclassed by Liverpool by a margin that was thoroughly deserved, and which spoke multitudes for the work of the Livers’ forwards.
The game was kept up at full speed incessantly, and though at times things were noticed which were objectionable, the game was kept well in hand by Referee Horrocks and two sensible, business-like linesmen.
Liverpool won because they played the open fearless game, and-here’s the main point- because the front line put that extra ounce of ginger in their finishes which must spell success. This might factor was missing in the Everton work. Their combination was close and clever. Yet Dunlop and West had a field day, nipping their short passes in the bud times without number. I liked Dunlop’s kicking immensely, and West was quiet, methodical, and most useful. There is an important moral to draw from the match. We have heard from Mr. J.J. Bentley that Bolton will win their way back to Division 1, by means of dash, plus science; and that Liverpool  are lacking in the former quality. 
Well, it was clearly demonstrated that Liverpool have the dash necessary and the skill to beat any club in the second division. On yesterday’s form I look to them to go through the remainder of their task without a blemish. They need fear no foe if they will give their opponents that final ounce of dash and determination. You formerly saw at Anfield a visitor’s back about to kick the ball up the field, and no one dared to hamper him or attempt to block the ball. Yesterday the very opposite was noticeable, and the players were richly rewarded. Following the ball up must be the maxim of the Anfield men if they mean to earn promotion. Everton forwards were weak, very weak. Hardman, till he was injured, and Rankin were best the inner work being poor. The men had an idea that they must draw the ball on to the goalline, before shotting. It was a grievous idea. The halves did well, Taylor running Raisbeck close for being the best man on the field. Balmer was for once in a way completely off colour, and Scott and Crelly saved a big chalking up. Taylor got the Blues’ orphan goal.
Of the winners, special mention is needed for Cox, who in the centre, like the minstrel, wandered somewhat, but did exceedingly well. His goal was a fine finish on a fine individual run; while another shot he got in deserted success, the bar alone preventing it. Fleming did his duty at outside left, and Goddard got a couple of very fine goals. What is more exhilarating than to see an extreme wing man’s curling shot or a half back’s pot shot at long range?
I sympathise with Everton and congratulate Liverpool, and shall still look forward to both of them being named “champions” at the end of April.

SOUTHPORT CENTRAL v  EVERTON RESEVRE
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 03 January 1905
At Southport to-day, before a large crowd. The Major, Councillor Trounson, kicked off for Everton, but the Central were the first to attack, both Dawson and Smith having shots at goal. Then Everton got down and Colman shot outside. From this the Central left wing got possession and Lawson put a shot beyond the reach of Dent, Central thus scoring in the first six minutes. At half time Central led by 1 goal to nil, during the interval the Rifle Volunteers’ Band played selections and a collection was made for Turner, one of the home team’s injured players. In the second moiety Central added another goal.
Final.- Southport Central 2, Everton nil.

FRIENDLY MATCH
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 03 January 1905
NORTHERN NOMADS v  SHEFFIELD
At Goodison Park, before a poor attendance. Hoyland commenced on behalf of Sheffield,  and Bolsover was early called upon the save from Edwards, the custodian tipping the leather over the bar, while McKenna sent wide from the corner kick. The Nomads pressed for a time, but Bolsover easily accounted for their efforts at goal; and then  the Tykes took up the attack. Houghton having little difficulty in clearing them out. Boswell moved off down the Sheffield left, and from his centre Green sent wide. The Nomads returned, and from a free kick McKenna sent the leather to Thomas, who headed out to Bryning, the latter’s shot being somewhat luckily cleared by Potts. A long punt by the Nomads left back gave Edwards an excellent chance of opening the account, but he made a miserable attempt to find the net. Then the Sheffield right wing advanced and Middleton put in a shot which Wilson fumbled and granted an abortive corner. McKenna received in midfield and passing with good judgement to Griffiths, the latter put in a good centre. Edwards being again at fault after Burns had made a poor clearance. The Nomads continued to attack to the finish of the initial half, and had the best of the argument, but their good work in the open was spoiled by their wretched efforts at goal. Half-time; No score. After the interval the Nomads showed to advantage, but their efforts were not sustained and after Wilson had successfully defeat with two or three difficulty shots he succumbed to a high dropping shot from the toe of Boswell. Undaunted by this reverse the Nomads set up a persistent attack on the Yorkshiremen’s citadel, and after many  narrow escapes Edwards succeeded in bringing about the downfall of the Sheffield goal. Nomads pressed to the finish.
Result; Nomads 1 goal, Sheffield 1.

EVERTON’S TEAM
Liverpool Echo - Friday 06 January 1905
Tom Booth comes into the Everton first team for the first time since his accident in the opening match of the season, and so the half back line will consist of Booth, Taylor, and Abbott- a fine trio who should be capable of stopping Brown, Lipsham and Co. Rankin plays for Sharp, whose twisted knee keeps him out of the team, and McDermott has regained his position at inside right.
The Everton directors feeling that some of the unemployed were formerly staunch patrons of the club, have forwarded fifty guineas to the Lord Mayor’s fund for the unemployed.
The names Struthers and Lipsham are very familiar to Liverolitians.  Two players of
These names will figure for the first time in the Everton Reserve team against Stalybridge and both are brothers of the famous players who have long been identified with senior football. An army man named Williams will also be given a trial. Lipsham was formerly with Chester, and Struthers with Kirkdale.

NEW EYERTON PLAYERS.
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 06 January 1905
The Everton Club are including three new players on trial in their Combination team to-morrow to meet Stalybridge Rovers. The men who are being given a trial are Williams, centre half-back; Struthers (brother to the Bolton Wanderers’ full back), centre forward; and Lipsham, of Chester.

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.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 07 January 1905
The monthly meeting of the League Committee was held in Manchester yesterday. Mr. J.J. Bentley presided. It was reported that Everton had reduced the fee on Green to £25. Everton were fined 21s 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.
Sheffield United v Everton
League match at Sheffield, train from Central Station at 10.20. Kick-off at 2.30.
Sheffield United; Leivesley, goal; Groves and Annan, backs; Johnson, Wilkinson, and Needham, half-backs; Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake, and Lipsham, forwards.
Everton.- LR Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; Booth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Stalybridge Rovers
Lancashire Combination match at Goodison 2.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Williams, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, Struthers, Dilly, and Lipsham, forwards.

CHAMPIONSHIP FORM
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 07 January 1905
In the light of Everton’s heavy defeat by their Second Division neighbours in the Liverpool Cup competition, it may seem strange to laud the play of the Goodison brigade. In this cup struggle they were certainly outplayed, but in the more important tournament, that of the League, they show no signs of falling away. It was expected that they would defeat Notts County, and they did do in decisive style. The forwards were in excellent form, their clever passing and dashing attacks being full of merit. McDermott proved what an artiste he is in his best humour, and the way he fed Sharp was worthy of the highest praise and worthy too, of the fine fashion in which his partner turned the passes to account. Crelley has recovery from the alleged ptomaine poisoning, and after a very long absence the captain, Tom Booth, is again fit. If thoroughly sound the old Rover should have exercised a potent influence on the play of the team at Sheffield to-day. This match has been anticipated as one of the hardest of the season.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD UNITED
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 07 January 1905
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
CLEAN SHEET AT HALF TIME
The prominent positions occupied by Everton and Sheffield respectively in the League tournament invested the meeting of the two clubs at Bramall line this afternoon with special interest. Both are making strenuous efforts to attain championship honours, and it was known that both elevens would put forward all their strength to-day. The Everton players left Liverpool shortly after ten o’clock this morning, and the busy Yorkshire city was reached in good time. The weather through fine, was dull and threatening; nevertheless a large crowd turned out to witness what promised to be on of the best-contested and most exciting encounters of the season. There were several changes in the Everton ranks, the most notable was the appearance of Booth as right half after his long and trying indisposition. Sharp was again an absence and his place was filled by the useful Rankin. The Sheffielders were at full strength, and the men faced each other as follows;-
Everton.- Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Booth (Captain), Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Sheffield United.- Leivesley, goal; Groves and Annan, backs; Johnson, W. Wilkinson, and Needham, half-backs; Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake, and Lipsham, forwards.
Referee.- Mr. T. Kirkham.
Everton won the toss, and Brown set the ball rolling in the presence of 20,000 spectators. After the opening exchanges the home forwards made play on the right, but Crelly hampered Lang, and the latter eventually put the ball over the line. The Sheffielders returned almost immediately on the left, but Booth was too smart for Drake, and the visitors carried play into the home quarters, but Groves, with a huge kick, cleared his lines, and the “Blades” again advanced, Needham putting in a long dropping shot which passed outside. The state of the ground was muddy in the extreme, and the homesters, being more used to this state of things than their opponents were for some time much smarter on the ball. The Evertonians, however, at length got away on the left, Hardman taking the ball down at top speed, and when close in passed finely to Young. The Everton centre got possession, and he had a glorious opening, when he shot over the bar. After a short spell in midfield, the visitors moved down nicely on the right, but Rankin was ruled offside just as he was about to shoot. Needham took up the running, and giving the ball to Lipsham, the latter passed neatly across to Donnelly, who had an open goal before him, when he sent the ball spinning high over the bar. Play now opened out a little, but the state of the ground precluded a really fast pace being maintained, and there was much scrambling work. Hardman, however, got away again in his best style, and put in another good centre, but it was cleared by Groves. The next movement of interest was an advance on the home right, but once more Donnelly was at fault, his shot lacking sting and being easily cleared by Roose. A break away by Settle was cut short by the little Evertonian coming into collision with Groves and the Sheffield back was put hors de combat for a few moments. On play being resumed the home right wing was again prominent, and Lang put in a long raking shot, which gave Roose considerable trouble to deal with. Following upon this the visitors exerted pressure, and Settle tried his luck with a swift shot, but the home custodian was equal to the occasion and cleared well. So far the game had been quite of an even character, neither side holding any appreciable advantage, though as already indicated the Sheffielders were more active in getting along the muddy surface. On one occasion Lipsham literally flew along the wing, and finished with a glorious shot, which Roose just succeeded in putting over the bar. The ensuing corner led to an exciting bully in front of the goalmouth, but the danger was eventually cleared, and another long period of midfield play ensued. A free kick against Everton let in the homesters again, and a corner was forced off Crelly, but this came to nothing, as Johnson shot outside. Some exceedingly clever work by McDermott and Taylor carried play into the home quarters and Hardman taking the pass, put in a clinking shot, which Leivesley just managed to scoop out, of the corner of the net. McDermott got the better of Needham in a smart encounter and sending the leather across to Hardman the plucky little amateur looked very like putting through when he was pulled up by Groves. After this the Sheffield forwards put on extra pressure, bearing down on the left, but Balmer cleared and McDermott worked his way down with rare cleverness. He completely beat Annan and then passed back to Rankin, who in turn shot right across the goalmouth to Hardman, but the latter’s final effort went over the bar. At this juncture the visitors were rather more than holding their own, and another breakaway at the right terminated in Rankin missing the net by inches only. A foul against Abbott put the Everton defence on their mettle for a time but the danger was over when Drake sent outside. More work in the neighbourhood of the centre line followed, and then both sides were visited in rapid succession, but without any tangible result, though the visitors were the more dangerous when in front of goal. McDermott spoiled a promising movement by passing the ball right to Wilkinson, who gave to his right wing, but their progress was cleverly checked by Crelly returning on the right. Donnelly sent in a swift ground shot but it was charged down. Still the Sheffielders remained in the vicinity of the Everton goal and as the interval approached they put more renewed efforts to draw ahead. Balmer, however gave relief, and thanks to a free kick the visitors were able to take up the attack, Abbott took the kick, and Settle attempt to run in and score, but in this he was foul by Groves. A second free kick led to other onslaught on the home goal, but came to nothing. Then Brown twice tried to get through, but on the first occasion he handled the ball, and on the second he was pulled up by Balmer. Abbott and Lang came to loggerheads and were both spoken to by the referee, moment later half time came without either side having scored.
Half-time score; Sheffield United nil, Everton nil
Note

EVERTON v  STALYBRIDGE ROVERS
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 07 January 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV A
Played at Goodison Park this afternoon in fine weather. The teams were as follows;-
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Williams and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, Struthers, Dilly, and Lipsham, forwards.
Stalybridge; Maybury, goal; Lockwood and  Jescoat, backs; Bell, Tompson, and Patterson, half-backs; Valentine, Carvey, J. Patterson, Trump, and Easton, forwards.
J. Pattenson started for Stalybridge, who turned out with only ten men. Play at the outset ran largely in favour of Everton, but the defence of Jescoat and Lockwood was very steady and the “blues” were beaten. From a corner, however, the Rovers goal had a very narrow escape, the ball cannoning off  a player when Maybury was beaten. The four Stalybridge forwards were unable to make headway and play continued in the Rovers’ half. On one occasion Lipsham hit the bar with a shot, and from the rebound half a dozen Evertonians endeavoured to put the ball through, but Maybury effected a marvellously fine save. Hanlin was winded, and the game was suspended for a few minutes. Continuing, Stalybridge showed some improvement and sent play into the home half occasionally, though without any success. Kitchen’s position was a sinecure. Everton attacked incessantly, but the Rovers’ defence held out remarkably well. Lockwood and Maybury being shining lights. Struthers, the Everton centre, was twice fouled when going well. The “Blues” claimed a penalty on one occasion, which, however, was disallowed. The Rovers bursting away suddenly caused the home lot some anxiety, but Kitchen kept his charge intact to the extent of a corner. The Rovers made full use of this, and were forced to defend again. Struthers and Roberts changed places in the hope of effecting a tangible result. Though having much the best of the game, Everton were unable to score, and half-time arrived with the teams on an equal footing. In the second half Williams, Hutchinson, and Dilly scored for Everton.
Final- Everton Reserves 3 goals, Stalybridge Rovers nil.

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.

EVERTON UNLUCKY AT BRAMALL LANE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 09 January 1905
By Bee
Sheffield United were rather lucky in defeating the Everton team by a goal to nothing. A draw would have been a fair reflex of the game. Neither set of forwards distinguished themselves and there were few exciting moments. Groves was the finest player for the United. With Brown and Young in the forward lines one would have anticipated more than one goal to be netted for these two men are artistes in the matter of goal-getting. Everton’s forwards as a line have probably not before this season given a more feeble display. There was absolutely no definite system of attack determined upon, and this is a somewhat unusual statement to chronicle. Young, Settle and McDermott did not anything like their usual game, and the inability of this trio to hold the ball brought upon the half-backs a surfeit of work that must have simply overwhelmed a less resourceful line. Young lay on the verge of offside throughout the game. Rankin and Hardman out in some capital sprints along the wing, Hardman as usual played a hard, untiring and plucky game. On two occasions he was deprived of scoring by the merest shaves, but he was unfortunate in finding Groves, the United right full back, in an almost unbeatable humour. The half-backs were kept busily employed throughout the proceedings. Booth after a long absence, appeared on the right, but, as was only to be expected, he was not a great success. He will improve however, Taylor played a masterly game, and it was a pity that his good work in finding openings for the inside forwards should have been all in vain. Abbott had a difficult wing to tackle. Balmer and Crelly defended well, though at times they were inclined to get too close into goal to the detriment of Roose, who is a custodian who prefers plenty of field.

SHEFFIELD UNITED v  EVERTON
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Monday 09 January 1905
A MATCH FOR SECOND PLACE.
Last season’s results.—At Bramall Lane: United 2, Everton 1. At Everton: Everton 2, United 0.
Beautiful weather was associated with the decision of this game at Bramall Lane on Saturday, and a crowd of close on 20,000 people put in an appearance, the takings being - £510 8s., and showing that over 17,000 paid. The United team was at full strength, but for the eleventh hour appearance of W. H. Wilkinson, who took his brother's place the International suffering from influenza. On Everton’s side Sharp was also ill, and Rankin took his place. The ground had been excellently prepared for the match, but was greasy and uncertain on the top. In the first half United set off with a strong rush, but Donnelly missed a fine opening close in, whilst Roose dealt with a magnificent effort by Lipsham, which he handed over the bar. Hardman was most conspicuous on the Everton. side, and one grand dribble resulted in Settle failing at a good opening, whilst Hardman himself got in a pretty shot, which Leivesley saved, dealing similarly with another from Abbott. At half-time both defences had played so well that there was no score.
In the second half Everton for the opening 20 minutes were more dangerous side, and attacked strongly, without giving Leivesley much to do. Nevertheless, Rankin once drove in a great shot, which was coolly cleared, as was another from Taylor, whilst at the other end Lang gave Roose two stinging shots to get away. The game was within a quarter of an hour of its end when the ball went to Drake nicely from the right, and he made no mistake with a fast 12- yards’ shot, beating Roose all the way. In the closing stages the visitors rallied a little, and once the ball trickled slowly past the post, with no one near it, but there was no more scoring, and the game ended – Sheffield United 1 goal,  Everton 0 goal.
Sheffield United.—Leivesley, goal; Groves and Annan backs; Johnson, W. H. Wilkinson, and Needham, half-backs; Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake, and Lipsham, forwards. Everton.- L.R. Boose, goal; Balmer and Crelley backs; Booth (Captain), Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H. F. Hardman, forwards. Referee : Mr. T. Kirkham, Burslem.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 09 January 1905
Truly, Everton are a most disappointing team. Just when one expects them to rise to an occasion and do something out of the ordinary, they fail. They had chances enough on Saturday to carry them through successfully at Bramall lane, even despite the fact that they did not play up to their usual standard. As a rule, the Evertonians have fared exceptionally well against the United at Sheffield and that they should have been unable to at least hold their own on Saturday must have come as a great disappointment to their supporters in view of the race for championship honours. The playing pitch was in a very bad state the muddy surface detracting from what might otherwise have been a scientific game. Apart from the difficulty of securing a firm footing there were, especially in the second portion of the game, chances of scoring that went a begging for the want of that little extra dash which invariably makes all the difference between winning and losing. For the greater portion of the game neither side gave one the impression of being able to score. Twenty minutes from the close the United profited from a slip by Crelley, who in taking a free kick close to the corner flag, put the ball a few yards in front of Roose, with the result that a smart pass from Brown to Drake left the latter an absolutely open goal. The first half of the game was devoid of interest. Neither custodian was severely troubled, and there was little forward play that soared above the average. It was in the second portion that the nicer points of play were exhibited and during this period the Evertonians had distinctly the better of the exchanges and the greater number of chances of scoring. On one occasion the ball rolled slowly across the goalmouth when the slightest tap was but necessary to find the net, but the chance passed unheeded and the ball went behind. This was but one of three distinct openings afforded the Evertonians during the last ten minutes of the game, and the United players were probably as much astonished as the spectators that such opportunities from such a team as their opponents should have been so ruthlessly cast aside. Taking the game all round it was not of a high class character and probably the heavy state of the ground was responsible for the comparatively poor sport. The players had difficulty in keeping their feet, and with a greasy ball it was only natural that many mistakes should be made. Still from the calibre of the contestants, even taking into consideration the adverse conditions a much better exhibition should have been forthcoming.
Everton’s inability to even share the honours of the game must be attributed to the forwards who as a line have probably not before this season given a more feeble display. There was absolutely no definite system of attack determined upon, and this is a somewhat unusual statement to chronicle. Neither Young, Settle, nor McDermott played anything like their usual game, and the inability of this trio to hold the ball brought upon the half backs a surfeit of work that must have simply overwhelmed a less resourceful middle line. Young lay practically on the verge of offside throughout the game, and altogether too far from his confreres to be in the least serviceable. Settle was rarely in evidence, while McDermott mist surely have been under the impression that he was engaged in a fancy dribbling competition. The only satisfactory work in the forward department was contributed by the wing men, Rankin and Hardman. The  former, especially during the second portion of the game, put in some capital sprints along the wing, and several of his centres should have been turned to better account. Hardman as usual, played a hard, untiring and plucky game. On two occasions he was deprived of scoring by the merest shave, but he was unfortunate in finding Grove the United right full back in an almost unbeatable humour. The half-backs were kept busily employed throughout the succeeding. Booth after a long absence, appeared on the right, but, as was only to be expected he was not a great success in the position he once filled for the Rovers. It was pleasing, however, to notice that as the game progressed he improved steadily, and towards the finish he was by no means the weakest of the line. Taylor played a masterly game in the centre, and it was a pity that his good work in finding openings for the inside forwards should have been all in vain. Abbott had a difficult wing to tackle in Lang and Donnelly. At times there was considerable feeling infused into the play in this quarter and the referee had perforce to lecture the players. The Evertonians held his own fairly well, but the United right winger towards the close had the better of the tussles, and frequently ran down and centred in good position. Balmer and Crelley defended well, though at times they were inclined to get too close into goal to the detriment of Roose, who is a custodian who prefers plenty of field. The keeper had no chance of saving the shot from Drake, but everything else that came his way was dealt with his customary judgement. The reorganised United team are a very smart business-like set. The forwards lose no time in getting away, and avoiding finesse, they invariably set the Everton halves a keen race. Brown was a fairly capable centre forward, and in Donnelly and Lang the club possess a right wing that will give the best of opponents a stiff task to hold them in check. At the other end of the line Lipsham’s experience came in very useful, and he evidently has a good idea if the kind of ball that in most likely to trouble Roose for several of his dropping shots brought out the amateur’s best efforts. The half backs compared favourably with the opposing trio, some very clever work in the centre by W. Wilkinson, who filled his brother’s position for the day, being of the greatest assistance to his side. At full back, Groves was the more brilliant of a capable pair of defenders, while the keeper had several shots to deal with from Hardman and Rankin and little exception could be taken to his clearances. As has been suggested it was not a great game, but a division of points would have been more in accord with the general run of play.

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.

FORWARD OR HALF BACK?
Liverpool Echo - Friday 13 January 1905
By Bee
Mr. W. Cuff informs me that Settle will probably turn out with the team to-morrow against Newcastle, but that the two Balmers will play back, as Crelley is unable to play through an injured leg.
J.S (Bourne-street) has something to say about the Everton half back line. His letter is as follows;-
“Mr. J. Lewis, the referee has said that Booth was better in his old place, centre half. Would it not be better to put Taylor inside right and let Booth take up his old position. I say this because the front rank of Everton is short of a little dash, and some of the best games by Everton last season were those when Taylor was at inside right; and, strange to say, they lost the English Cup tie and the Stoke match when Taylor was not played in the front. Now that the grounds are heavy, they do not suit the short passing of McDermott.”
My correspondent is correct when eh says that short passing is not needed, though I think he might have omitted any one single forward’s name, as the attacking party as a whole have been giving forth too many short passes. However, it is pretty certain that for a week or so, at any rate, Booth should operate on the right, for though since his return to the field he has shown creditable form, it is not wise to place him in the racket and great strain of the centre half position, especially as Taylor has done so remarkably well in his captain’s absence. When Booth get settled down again and Makepeace is able to play, no doubt the officials will weigh up the matter, and maybe Taylor will be found in his best form, waking up the forwards. Wherever I go I hear from club officials and Football League authorities the highest praise of Taylor- one man termed him “the finest half in the world, Raisbeck included”-while Hardman is considered a gem, and Crelley’s tackling is commented on favourably. Recently I overheard a tall, sprightly, young lady, who is to be seen with her “pa” at every League match in the Everton members’ stand, say that she agreed with the writer in the “Echo” that Crelley deserved his international cap this season. That settles it. If a lady agrees with an opinion good must assuredly come from the announcement.
Bert Sharp brother of Jack Sharp, has been secured by Southport Central, and will play at full back with the reserve team against Liverpool.

INJURED PLAYERS
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 13 January 1905
Although the Everton F.C. directors have chosen their team there is one player whose turn-out is a matter of doubt. Settle, it appears, is in the fashion. Influenza has laid him up, and it is quite possible he will not be fit for the interesting fixture tomorrow with Newcastle United. The selected reserve man is McLoughlin, who can play in either of the inside positions in the attacking portion if necessary. The twisted knee that keeps Sharp out of the team gives Rankin another appearance in the first team. The eleven therefore is as follows;-
Roose; Balmer and Crelly; Booth, Taylor, and Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
By kind permission of the Empire Theatre management the band of the Estrellian Guards will play to-morrow.  Other clubs of the leading division of the League have their binds, who make a collection to defray expenses. Why not one for Everton and Liverpool F.C’s?

TOMORROW’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 13 January 1905
Everton v Newcastle United- League match at Goodison-park; 2.45.
Everton; LR. Roose, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Booth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards. Reserve; McLoughlin. The 1st Estrellian Guards’ Band will, by kind permission of the Empire Theatre management and Mr. Fred Karno, play selections before and during the match.
Everton Combination v St. Helens Town- At St. Helens.
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Williams, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, Dilly, McClure, and Evans, forwards.
Town; Lee, goal; Parr and Yates, backs; Chorlton, Stamford, and Lucas, half-backs; Rogers, Baxendale, Bentley, Grundy, or Taylor, and Rigby, forwards.

THE COMING OF EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 14 January 1905
A specially attractive match is due for decision at Deepdale next week, for Everton are the visitors. The Mersey City club have proved that they possess one of the cleverest sets of forwards in the League. Players like Sharp, McDermott, Settle, and Hardman are all thoroughly clever, their footwork being far above the average, and many followers of North End who have not seen McDermott play will probably be astonished if he happens to be in one of his best humours. He is rather a man of moods. Young, the centre-forward, has a habit of lying close up to the backs or even behind them, after the style of Sandy Brown. The Everton team is also strong in defence, this remark applying specially to the half-back line, in which the veteran, Taylor, is going in grand form, and in which also we may hope to see the old Blackburn captain, Tom Booth. Everton were the first club to lower North End’s colours this season. Will North End take both points this time?

EVERTON v  NEWCASTLE UNITED
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 14 January 1905
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
THE VISITORS DRAW FIRST BLOOD
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
The fixture this afternoon, at Goodison Park promised to be one of the most interesting and exhilarating of the season. Newcastle United have displayed magnificent form since their entry into the premier League, and they well deserve the topmost position, which they at present occupy, as they are a fine, slashing, go-ahead team, who seldom throw opportunities away, and who stand where they do purely on their own merits. The spectators were justified in anticipating a rare contest between  strength and energy, and skill and cunning finesse, which is the dominant feature of the Evertonians game. The afternoon was gloriously fine, though very cold, and the turf in excellent condition for a perfect exhibition of the football art. The result of the game was of the utmost importance to Everton, as victory would bring them within one point of the leaders, but with two more games played; defeat meant their almost certain exit from the running for championship honours.
Everton;- Roose, goal; W. Balmer and R. Balmer, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Newcastle.- Lawrence, goal; McCombie and Carr, backs; Gardner, Aitken (captain), and McWilliam, half-backs; Rutherford, Howie, Appleyard, Graham, and Gasnell, forwards.
Referee, Mr. Adams.
The Everton team was somewhat weakened by the absence of Crelley, the Brothers Balmer sharing the burden at full back; while Veitch and Orr were short in the United ranks. There was a great crowd present to brave the bitterly cold weather, and the people were still pouring in when the game commenced. The Newcastle skipper won the toss, and set Everton to face half a gale. Young kicked-off before fully 25,000 spectators, and the game for the first few minutes was easy and never far from the centre. Suddenly the homesters settled down to business and on the ball being well placed by W. Balmer, Young and his right hand supporters going in great style into the United quarters. Young was very prominent and the fate of the Newcastle goal fairly hung in the balance for a few seconds, but eventually Carr and McWilliams managed to save their side from disaster. The Evertonians continued to attack stubbornly, Hardman making great efforts to force a passage on his wing, but he was held slightly by McCombie, who at last succeeded in feeding Howie and Rutherford. The Newcastrian, right made headway in fine style, Abbott failing to hold them, and Roose was tested with a very stiff shot from Howie. Then Newcastle transferred their attack to the other wing, when Roose again responded to an ugly shot from Graham. The visitors were now working determinedly, and were not driven out until Howie got another one in at Roose. Everton got away, but only in half-hearted fashion, desultory play ensuing on their left, where Hardman suck fast, and then Roose had to run out and clear from a loose attack from the Newcastle right. Hardman nipped down his wing and passed to the centre, where Cain dashed in and cleared. Booth served up again, but Aitken passed out to the right, Rutherford and Howie being defeated by R. Balmer. Graham came back with a fine dribble, but was beaten by W. Balmer, and then Roose gave a corner, and directly afterwards saved at full length from Howie. Everton tried an assault on both wings, but only moderate progress attended their efforts, and by and by the visitors took advantage of every ounce of wind and passed beautifully down the field. However, they were beaten back and Rakin got in a grand centre, McCombie filling the breach very finely. More passing came from Appleyard and his immediate supporters, and then Howie came out alone and finished up by scoring a neat goal which the visiting section hailed with great delight. The success of the visitors was well deserved as they had monopolised the attack, which was carried out with method and plenty of determination. A few minutes after the score Everton came away with a brilliant burst on the left, Hardman centring splendidly, and Settle struck the crossbar at close quarters. Laurence failed to put the leather over the bar, and it dropped in front of him, a few feet from goal, but although the home front rank swarmed all over Laurence they could not get the leather through, and this a fine opportunity of equalising was not turned to account and McCombie managed to put his men once more on the attack. A spell of midfield play ensued, after which Booth was beaten, and the visitors went down in force. The Everton goalkeeper brought off a good save from Graham, and a few minutes later performed splendidly in answer to Aitken. It was terrible hard work battling against the wind, but the homesters struggled gallantly up the left, but all their efforts went for nothing, owing to a foul being given against Hardman. However, Rankin brought the ball away and although seriously hampered by Carr, he managed to drop in a lowly centre, which Settle just managed to reach, and Carr came back into the goalmouth and cleared. By easy stages the Northumberians advanced on the right, but when the crucial moment arrived Roose came out of goal and defeated Howie. On the opposite wing Gosnell and Graham put in some neat passing, but in the end were beaten all to pieces by W. Balmer. Balmer was well beaten on the right, but the Novo’s advance was momentarily  checked through Gosmer putting the leather out. The Newcastle wing soon got under weigh again, but Balmer stuck to them gamely, and they passed to the opposite wing, when Rutherford made his effort, and sent the ball whizzling past the goalposts. A free kick came to the United, but Young managed to head the leather away, and his effort was supplemented by Settle, who was fouled soon after when sprinting smartly down his wing. From this the Newcastle defence was under severe pressure, but every effort of Settle, Young, and McDermott were admirably checked by Gardner, Aitken, and McCombie. At last the United broke away once more, but they were rather loose in their final efforts, and Roose running out cleared comfortably. The game turned much in favour of Everton who made a series of grand attacks, during which Abbott and Young each had shots charged down, and several shots went astray owing to the vagaries of the wind. A sudden dash was made by the Novocastrians, and Graham looked like beating both backs, but Booth fell back, and by a magnificent effort turned the tables on his opponents. Everton had a free kick, and they went away with a bound, Hardman being well beaten by McCombie. Shortly afterwards Abbott shot into Lawrence’s hands, and Everton kept up the attack until half-time, but the Newcastle men were certainly very kindly treated by Dame Fortune. When the interval came there were about 35,000 spectators present, and Newcastle led by a goal to nothing. Half-time score;- Newcastle United 1 goal, Everton nil.
NEWCASTLE OPEN WELL
ROOSE KEPT BUSY
UNITED’S GRAND DEFENCE
INTERVAL PROSPECTS GLOOMY
EVERTON’S PERFECT COMBINATION
THE CHAMPIONS DEFEATED
Resuming operations after the interval, Cosmell and Graham failed to get away, but Settle also failed to pick up Booth’s pass, and Carr was also too quick for Settle from Rankin’s centre. Rutherford came away smartly and put in a pretty centre, which Appleyard received from offside. Nevertheless he tested Roose. This was a lucky escape for Everton. Carr checked the Everton right, but Settle managed to get in a capital screw shot, the ball travelling only a foot out of its proper destination when Lawrence was well beaten. The Everton forwards stuck to it very grimly, and McCombie was fairly beaten, but Lawrence was all there when required. Everton’s attack was kept very close, and was very subtle, but though they pressed very hard an opening was not conceded. A breakaway by Graham and Gosnell was splendidly attended to by the older Balmer, but a weak kick by the same player nearly allowed the left wing to come through. Rankin succeeded in forcing a corner off the left back, which was poorly placed and yielded no advantage. Then followed a determined attack by the visitors which was duly attended to by Abbott, and a free kick against Aitken for fouling Young carried play into Newcastle quarters. Here Young was given offside. Nothing came from the free kick, Abbott and Taylor soon having the ball down, and in the course of the subsequent attack on the Newcastle goal Hardman was the shinning light. Gosnell broke away and passed to Hoare, who appeared to have the goal at his mercy, but Roose brought off a magnificent save in answer to his shot. After many disappointing efforts Rankin equalised with a glorious oblique shot, swift as an arrow, and with this Lawrence found it impossible to deal. Great credit was due to Taylor for leading up to the opening. Everton were now attacking with great spirit they continued to combine beautifully, and a fine pass out from the right to Settle found the little man uncovered, and he promptly netted with a sharp shot. Final Everton 2 goals, Newcastle United 1 goal
The Goodison Park representatives won last season’s corresponding fixture by 4 goals to 1.

ST HELENS v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 14 January 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV A
This match was played this afternoon at St. Helens, before a big crowd. The visitors are always an attractive at St. Helens. The home team included Bentley, of Preston, at centre forward and Joe Lee in goal. The Town started against the wind with a man short, but they held their own. The home men were going up the field when McCartney took the ball from Chorlton and Bentley. Some good passing by the visitors enabled Evans to get in the home quarters, but only a goal kick resulted. Immediately afterwards the Everton goal had a narrow escape. Chorlton easily passed the backs, and had only the custodian to beat, but he shot the ball across the goal. Both Stamford and Rigby missed the ball when they had a splendid chance. The home right was very smart, Chorlton doing good work in his new position. The visitors, however, got some advantage by the Town only having ten men, and after a brief attack Hutchinson scored a very pretty goal with a long shpt. Baxendale now joined the team and the Everton goal was at once attacked. Kitchen just saved from Taylor. From a corner Carr cleared, and the home forwards transferred play to Everton territory. Chorlton shot wide. The home defence gave a good exhibition, and then Chorlton was prominent by very smart work forcing a corner off McCartney. This was cleared, but a minute later Kitchen had to save from Bentley. Williams gave his side some advantage by long kicks, Delly and Caldwell being robbed by Yates. The home forwards were going strong for the Everton goal when Bentley was fouled just outside the penalty line. Taylor put the ball into the net just as the referee whistled, but the goal was not allowed, and the free kick was easily cleared. Only a few minutes later Rigby and Taylor beat the Everton defence, and Baxendale were fouled in the penalty area, but the referee only gave a goal kick. From this the visitors got in a good position, Delly sprinting past the backs, but the home custodian made a brilliant save. Play in the Everton quarters followed, Chorlton missing a chance when only a yard from the net. The play was very evenly contested for a long period, both sides showing a good defence. The Everton goal was hard pressed just before half-time, but the home forwards were a trifle slow in forcing a corner, with no result.
Half-time Everton 1 St Helens Town nil.

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.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 16 January 1905
As befitted their position in the League, the Everton and Newcastle teams provided one of the toughest and most keenly contested games seen at Goodison Park this season, and the home side, after taking an unconscionable long time to get fairly into their stride gained a well-deserved victory over the League leaders. There was little to choose between the air and as a matter of fact, the Tynesiders were slightly superior in some respects, notably in being more alert in pouncing on the ball and making headway, and it was fortunate for Everton that they had a custodian of the calibre of Roose, who was kept busy with puzzling shots continually during the first half. A strong south-easterly breeze gave the visitors a considerable advantage in the opening period, and the Everton defence during this time was subjected to severe pressure. But the forwards were by no means idle, and it was more by luck than anything else that the Newcastle goal escaped capture, for shots were charged down within the penalty area, simply because a defender happened to be in the way, rather than the result of intention. Chief danger on the Newcastle side originated generally on the right wing, for Howie was always foraging around and he was ably plied by Gardner and Aitken. It was only natural, therefore, the inside right should gain the first and only goal which fell to the visitors. He received a beautiful pass from Appleyard, and, dashing between the backs up to Roose, gave the latter no chance with his final effort. The ex-Grimsby player is just the sort of centre for these speedy and clever wing forwards of the Novocastrians; sturdy and vigorous in his endeavours and wasting no time in promptly espying an opening and transferring the ball to the extremities of the line. Some glorious chances were badly utilised by the inside men, and even taking into account the excellent work of Roose, Newcastle should have had more than one goal to their credit at the interval. But all their smart play prior to the change of ends was eclipsed during the first quarter of an hour after the resumption, when having to face the wind they evidently braced themselves for a great effort to strengthened their lead. At one time it appeared as if Everton were going to be overwhelmed by the attack, and their chances of averting defeat began to look very improbable. This was the tonic the home players needed, for it spurred them on to greater exertions, and when Young wriggled through with a pass from Taylor and sent in immediately to Rankin, excitement rose to fever heat. Cleverly outwitting Carr the extreme right winger closed in, and with a superb drive from his left foot flashed the ball into the net, amidst an uproarious outburst of enthusiasm. This was continued almost without interruption, and when Settle pounced upon a centre from McDermott and placed his side ahead the cheering was renewed again and again. Even then the game was not won without a struggles for Roose fell on the goal line in clearing a centre from the right wing, with Appleyard and Graham on him, but by a huge effort he succeeded in getting the ball away. The play was well worthy of the reputation of both teams, and the 30,000 spectators must have been amply satisfied with what they had witnessed. Everton fully redeemed themselves by the manner in which they buckled to their work when they seemed to be losing ground, and their performance in the second half fully entitled them to the victory. There was not the nippiness about the forwards that has been noticed in previous matches, and the Newcastle half backs frequently dispossessed them whilst they were in a hesitating mood. Young was not very prominent in the centre, but the extreme wing men put in some capital work. Hardman in the first half, and Rankin after the interval being responsible for some excellent football. settle and McDermott gave a good display through neither was seen at his best; but, taking the forwards as a line, their performance was satisfactory, without, however, reaching the brilliance which they have frequently exhibited at home. For Newcastle, Appleyard distributed the play splendidly, but was not so effective in retaking the ball for his wings, and might have done better with the chances he get near goal. The right wing was the most aggressive part of the front line, and Howie was easily the finest of the quintet, running, passing, and dribbling with rare skill. Rutherford did not utilise the opportunities he received as effectually as a player of his reputation was expected. Gosnell and Graham on the left wing are promising footballers, and the former centred very judiciously, whilst his partner has a capital idea of the requirements of an inside forward. With the exception of Booth, who is far from being thoroughly fit, the Everton rear division acted splendidly. The captain will, no doubt be seen to greater advantage when fully recovered; and though he tackled with his usual cleverness, he was frequently faulty in his placing. Taylor gave another grand display at centre half, but Abbott was equally as clever and kept the smart pair opposite him, well under control. Further behind the Brothers Balmer furnished a delightful exposition, the younger kicking fearlessly and powerfully, even against the wind. They went afforded ample opportunity of showing their skill, and better defence than the pair set forth need not be wished for. Roose was more severely tested than in any other match seen at Everton this season. Amongst a number of excellent clearances, one in the first half, when he fell full length to scoop with outstretched arm a shot from Graham, and another near the finish, to which reference has already been made, were especially clever feats. As a line the Newcastle half backs were the strongest part of the team, for each member of this division gave a sound and reliable display, tackling well and combining with the men in front in a decidedly aggressive fashion. Of the full backs Carr was the more prominent and compared even with such a sturdy defender as McCombie, did not exhibit any signs of inferiority. In goal, Lawrence had not a great deal to do, but he saved one shot from Rankin in fine style, and had no chance of reaching those which beat him. Newcastle have certainly got a strong side together, one that will not be moved from the leadership without a severe tussle. When the sides are at full strength there is little between Everton and the Tynesiders and both can play rare football.

EVERTON v  NEWCASTLE UNITED
Newcastle Daily Chronicle - Monday 16 January 1905
FINE PLAY BY BOTH TEAMS
NEWCASTLE FULLY WORTH A POINT
TEN WILD MINUTES IN SECOND HALF DEFEATS THEM
By “Captain”
A fine dry day, though with a cold south-westerly wind blowing were the conditions under which Newcastle United met Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday in a fight for very precious League points. The importance of the match was appreciated by the public, who numbered anything between 25,000 and 30,000. The ground was in good order, and everybody prepared themselves for a great contest. Newcastle played Graham at inside left, and in this portion he did not disgrace himself. Everton were thought to be handicapped by the absence of their left back, Crelley, in whose place R. Balmer played, and by Sharp’s absence through injury, Rankin taking his place at outside right, but when all was said and done the teams were pretty near full strength. The kick off was very late for the time of year- 2.45 -this probably being in order to allow business people to attend. The referee was Mr. D. Hammond.
Aitken rightly named the coin, and placed his men with the wind favouring them. There was a sharp pressing movement by Newcastle and Graham and McDermott collided with their heads when going for the ball, but only stopped a moment. Then Rutherford sent well up for R. Balmer to return. From this point Settle brought the ball towards Lawrence, and Carr and McWilliam had their work cut out to stem the attack made by the Everton right wing and later the left. A breakaway on this side, however, was interrupted, by the referee, and the next minute Newcastle were in the home half, where Appleyard tried Roose with a hard drive. The Newcastle forwards were bustling, and Gosnell and Graham were working against Booth with effect, the result being a fine shot from the latter. A duel between Aitken and Young ended in the Newcastle captain’s favour, and a judicious pass enabled Howie to send in a low ball which Roose gathered anything but smartly. Settle and Hardman were a troublesome pair to Gardner and McCombie, and after beating the Newcastle defenders named it was left to Carr to clear, which he did moderately, Aitken furthering the progress of the leather. In the Everton half Aitken was fouled, and from the free kick McWilliam shot over. It looked as though Newcastle were good enough to score hereabouts, but the right wing was taking most of the work. Then Rankin startled the Tynesiders with a brilliant run down the home right wing, but his centre was well cleared by McCombie. Appleyard next took charge, and putting in a rare sprint, was met by Roose. The amateur had a great deal of difficulty to clear, for Appleyard never left him, but eventually the home custodian succeeded. It was not long before he was in trouble again, however, for the Newcastle centre led another fine attack, and upon being tackled slipped the ball to Howie. The Newcastle inside right was tackled by Taylor, but the latter just missed him with a shoulder charge, and Howie ran right on for 50 yards, and, with a sharp well-directed shot, fairly beat Roose at the end of 17 minutes. The goal was a perfectly sound one, well worked for, and well gotten. This reverse set the home men fairly on their mettle, and after Settle and H.P. Hardman had cleverly got past Gardner the latter sent in a stinger which struck the top of the goalpost. Rankin then made an attempt, but Carr beat him. Some fine defensive work by McCombie was next seen, and determined though Everton’s efforts were they were well balanced by the opposition shown. Rankin was playing a fine game on the home right wing, but Carr was in his best vein, and time after time spoilt the Everton man’s attempts to centre. Once he got a good one in after being closely tackled right to the goal line, but Settle was hemmed in when the leather came near him and could not act. After this Carr was the hardest worker and well he did against his wing. At length the Everton siege was raised and the Magpies went off in good style. A transference by Howie to Rutherford, a short, quick run, and then came a lightning shot from the Newcastle extreme winger which just went past the upright, Roose springing to it in alarm. Play ruled still all on the Newcastle right wing, and Gosnell was left standing in magnificent loneliness. There was a reason for this, however, for R. Balmer was the weaker back at the time, and the Novocastrians made full use of this condition of things. On one occasion, however, Everton put in one of their dangerous sprints and it was Carr again who got rid of the leather after numerous attempts to get it through by the home men. Roose ran out to meet a long though somewhat slow shot, and then Appleyard had very hard luck in just failing to carry the leather through past Taylor. The latter later on sent well up to Lawrence, where Booth sent in a beauty which looked like slipping just under the bar when Larence sprang up and caught it cleverly. Two corners fell to the home men after this, but nothing resulted, and after Rankin had shot very wide a fine half ended justly in favour of United. Shortly after the restart Gardner gave to Howie and the latter again got past the Everton centre-half. Then he put the ball forward for Rutherford, but the latter gave to Howie again with the latter now in an offside position. Rankin and McDermott were prominent on the home right wing, the latter slinging the ball across to Settle who shot very badly and very wide. Later on, Rankin sent in one from the 18 yards marks which looked a certainty. At the right moment, however, McCombie headed away cleverly. Apart from this there had been nothing approaching intense excitement, even when Everton were busiest. This they were for some time. Rankin and McDermott being the chief operators Carr continuing his fine work against the latter. Appleyard put in a good run, but came down inside the penalty area. The ball was brought up to this point again, and after the two home backs had passed him he joined in the fray again. Eventually Howie seemed a certain scorer again, but Roose held his shot. After this clearance the Tynesiders had a terrific struggle to get another goal, and Everton were very lucky to prevail. In the Newcastle half the Tyneside defence amply toyed with the efforts of the home forwards, amongst whom there was not that understanding which goes so much towards victory. Hardman and Settle were working heroically, but Gardner and McCombie were the masters, while on the other wing Carr had Rankin so well weighed up that the Everton outside right did not seem particularly keen of coming near him. Once Howie gave Rutherford a pretty pass, and when the latter shot R. Balmer was very lucky to be in the road, giving a corner. From the flag-kick the ball was put well in, but Roose was fully on the alert and punched away. After further attempts nu the Newcastle left to make progress. Taylor gave to Rankin, and the latter wriggled cleverly round Carr, who ought perhaps to have charged him. McCombie went over, but Rankin shot quickly and equalised after 22 minutes of the second half had gone. After this there was plenty of excitement, for Everton played with an energy they had previously displayed, while the Newcastle defence seemed at times to lose their heads, with the result that the Tyneside goal was in the greatest danger of falling again. Once Lawrence and McCombie rushed at each other blindly in their eagerness to save, and several corners was conceded. Eight minutes after the home team’s equaliser, and after exactly half an hour of the second half had elapsed, Settle was given free scope by reason of a tremendous failing of in the Newcastle defence, and he made full use of it, for he put in a drive which did not give Lawrence an earthly chance. The goal was well deserved, for the home forwards and halves had never relaxed their extraordinary efforts after securing the goal which put them on a level with their opponents while the Tynesider’s rear division seemed to lose their previous coolness and skill, and it was more by good luck than anything else that Rankin did not put on another shortly afterwards., Lawrence being hard pressed to get rid of the leather. After much tribulation the Newcastle forwards got up within shooting distance, but the home defence was sound enough. The nearest escape Roose had at this time was from a fine shot by Rutherford. This was right into the goalmouth, but Roose held it tightly, and it was well he did so for Appleyard and Howie rushed on him but failed to dislodge the leather. Just after Roose got rid of it he ran out and dropped down from a kick on the leg it was thought. There was a little desultory play after this and then the final whistle sounded, leaving Everton lucky winners taking the game right though I certainly think they were worth a point.
Final;- Everton 2 goals, Newcastle United 1 goal.
Everton.- Goal. L.R Roose; backs, Balmer  and R. Balmer; half-backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, Abbott; forwards, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, H.P. Hardman.
Newcastle United.- Goal, Lawrence; backs, McCombie and Carr; half-backs; Gardner, Aitken (captain), and McWilliam; forwards, Rutherford, Howie, Appleyard, Graham, and Gosnell.
COMMENTS
There was much speculation previous to Newcastle United’s departure for Liverpool on Friday afternoon as to the identity of “A.N. Other,” who was coupled with the name of Sam Graham as probable occupant of the inside left berth against Everton. As would be seen on Saturday, Graham was given the place, but the fact is that this was rendered necessary solely owing to the inability of S.S. Harris, the well-known Corinthian, to play. He was willing to assist the Novocastrians, but being booked for an important engagement himself (Amateurs v Professionals), in which, I believe he held the captaincy, he was unable to lend his aid. At all events he was the “z” of the problem. The Newcastle United directors who voted for Graham’s inclusion as a left winger were certainly prepared to risk something, or else surely they would have chosen Harker, a left wing man. Harker’s youth probably is his worst fault, couple with the fact that he has never play for a Scottish club. I say this because my readers may remember that when Gosnell was a member of Newcastle’s reserve team, Harker was his partner. Now, surely, a wing pair who have played together was a far safer experiment than trying to convert a right wing man into a left in the short space of 90 minutes. Harker is clever, fast, a deadly shot, and lion-hearted, and I was sorry indeed he did not get his chance. It must not be imagined that I hold unfavourable opinions of Graham. On the contrary I think “Sammy” a very promising youth indeed, and let me right off that stranger as he was to the position, he by no means disgraced himself on Saturday. It was evident, however, that the absence of an understanding told very much against him. I am not sure, indeed, that Graham was at all gratified with his appointment in a position foreign to him. Now to the game. For strength the sides, I should say, were pretty well matched, but for cleverness Newcastle outshone the Blues at every point, and drew expressions of admiration from the most rabid home enthusiast. This in the first half at least, at the end of which Newcastle were worth a two goal lead, only Roose’s skill and luck combined keeping the advantage to the confines of one goal. At half-time it looked a “nip” for the Tynesiders if ever they had one, not so much that Everton were weak, but rather from the fact that Newcastle were strong in every department, and especially in the rearguard, where Carr had Rankin and McDermott beautifully weighed up, while on the other wing McCombie was playing magnificent against a stronger pair in Settle and Hardman. The Newcastle halves were in great feather, too, so that, as I said above, all looked rosy when the interval came, for Howie’s goal, for which Appleyard was largely responsible, had given the visitors heart while causing a certain amount of depression with the home lot. Howie ran some 40 or 50 yards with the ball before he got up to Roose, but he kept a cool head and shot unerringly. It was the minimum result which Newcastle deserved. And then when the second half commenced we Tynesiders, feeling beautifully satisfied with ourselves, though chilled to the bone very calmy waited for more goals. They came, certainly, but they were Everton points, alas! The case with which Newcastle had “given then a feeling of security-faise, indeed as it proved for Rankin who had been prominent for great determination, at last clean beat Carr to run in and score after 20 minutes’ play. I think the Newcastle back would have fared better and the Everton forward a good deal worse had he given him his shoulder, but as it was he gave him rope instead, and the indefatigable winger gave his side not only the equaliser but an incentive to get more which, as it turned out, proved fatal to United. There was simply no holding the Blues back after their success. They swarmed about the Newcastle penalty line like bees, and then to the consternation of the many Novocastrians present the United defenders fairly lost their heads. No other description will suffice, and none other would be true. For ten minutes-what an awful ten minutes it was -they played like novices. The half-backs missed the ball, and both backs did ditto, all through over anxiety to clear their lines. As a friend of mine remarked, “It was the worst ten minutes over I saw in my life.” It was, indeed; and the climax came when Settle was given the ball, and without a challenge it in past Lawrence for the lead, and, as it proved, for the points. This acted as a galvanic shock on the Newcastle men, and quickly they got into their old stride again, and it must be acknowledged had very hard luck in not equalising. How Roose kept the ball from Appleyard and Howie after he had come down to a drive from Rutherford I do not know. No wonder he was hurt. Try as they liked, however, Newcastle could not get the ball into the net for the points which they certainly deserved, for on the day’s play they were without doubt the cleverer team all through with the exception of that melancholy ten minutes. Rankin was supposed to be an indifferent substitute for Sharp, but I very much doubt if the latter would have outshone him on Saturday’s game. He was the best of the home forwards by a lump. Neither McDermott nor Young took the eye greatly, and Hardman was better then Settle, though the pair showed only an indifferent understanding. Taylor stood out by himself in the half-back line, with Abbott and Booth next in order. The brothers W and R. Balmer were sound at back, though the latter played his best game in the second half. When the greatest pressure came W. Balmer showed up best. Roose made some splendid saves, but was favoured with a bit of luck on more than one occasion. On the Newcastle side I should put Howie down as the best forward with very little between him, Appleyard, and Rutherford. Sam Graham did his best, which was not at all bad, and sustained a kick on the thigh for his pains. Gosnell was responsible for some neat centres, but in the first half had little say in the business, the run of play being on the other wing. Aitken was the best back, with Gardner also in good vein. McWilliam played only moderately, and was not very well, suffering acutely from neuralgia all the day. Both backs played a splendid game, Carr especially being unbeatable in the first half. In the second, of course, there was a lapse for a short time which proved fatal, and is the first occasion on which I have seen the pair unnerved. I have seen Lawrence in cooler humour, too, though the two shots which beat him were goals all the way to any custodian. Lawrence once ran well up towards the centre line to clear a ball, evidently fearing a breakaway by an Everton forward when the Newcastle backs were well up. This was just typical of the intense excitement under which the Tynesiders laboured for a short while. It was hard indeed to be robbed of both points through 10 minutes’ had play out of 45, but this has to be endured, even by the team which the Liverpool papers are even now styling “champions.” Leaders they are, but champions they are not-yet, though I have still big hopes of their earning the much-coveted title.

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.

THE LUCK OF THE DRAW
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 18 January 1905
By Bee
The Liverpool v Everton tie is a great affair, which may establish a new record for an ordinary Cup tie (says a writer in the “Daily Chronicle”).
The “Sporting Life” expert has quickly made up his mind. “Everton are right enough for the second round barring accidents,” he declares.
Liverpool supporters will not be without hope that on February 4 they will be able to repeat the local Cup experience, and  enable Everton to devote undivided attention to the winning of the League Championship- “Birmingham Post.”
Liverpool can hardly hope to beat their formidable neighbours, besides which they are busily engaged in trying to get back again to the First League, and cam well forego the distraction of the Cup ties, according to “Rover” (Morning Leader).
“J.C” in the Sporting Chronicle,” has the following;- The coming together of Liverpool and Everton is indubitably the “piece de resistance” of the opening ties. It means the renewal of those strenuous thrilling local battles enthusiasts in the city on the Mersey dearly love, the meeting of great and keen rivals, who, except for the English Cup, would not have this season waged war in a really momentous battle. The men of Anfield, impressed as they must be by the significance of the engagement- what a rare opportunity they will have of regaining some of the prestige they lost by relegation into the Second Division!- may be too formidable for their neighbours. One takes cognisance of the fact that Everton are an exceptionally fine combination-let the forward machinery be set working with smoothness and method, and I know of few better lines-but I have a presentiment that Tom Watson’s men will triumph. Everton ate not ideal Cup fighters. This prospective engagement with Everton makes it imperative that Liverpool should buckle on their armour and extend themselves to the fullest.
“One Who was There” finds fault with the comments on the Everton-Newcastle match. He wants to know “what the nippy set of brainy footballers- clever from forward to aft, with the assistance for forty-five minutes of a splendid breeze of wind on their starboard quarter-were doing to be only! up. Were they practically beaten by three men, who were simply doing their duty as part of the sleep whole? The fact is, Greek met Greek and provided us with a game wonderfully keen and exciting from start to finish, and well worth a long way to see. Let them provide us with the same fare every Saturday, and here’s one who will be quite satisfied.” Might I point out that I distinctly state that the clever Newcastle men were one up only because Roose was almost impenetrable, and became Young, Balmer, and Taylor were defending so valiantly. “One Who Was There” must give Roose credit for being simply wonderful on Saturday. His ‘keeping explains why the front rank of the United were unable to score more than once. I would have liked to have been alongside my correspondent at sixty minutes time tackled him as to the merits of the Everton men. I grant him that the game was exciting throughout, and well worth going a long way to see. Why? Because it was Roose who created the excitement in so large a measure. I hope Everton will continue, as “One Who Was There” joins me, to provide us with the same class of exciting fare every Saturday, but not to keep us on tender hooks for an hour before they begin goal-getting. I am a disinterested party with both Liverpool clubs, and perchance my correspondent had not a clear view of the game during the first hour.

EVERTON UPHEAVAL
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 19 January 1905
The names of Ashworth and Sharp are included in the selected Everton team to travel to Preston on Saturday. These two names do not suggest an upheaval, but the selectors have put McDermott to operate at centre, Rankin to partner Sharp, and Ashworth, after a month or so’s rest, to displace Booth. As Crelly is still suffering from an injury to the knee the brothers Balmer will be relied upon at back again. The team chosen seems a very strange one; Rose, goal; R and W. Balmer, backs; Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, halves; Sharp, Rankin, McDermott, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Whether the experiment of trying McDermott in the position usually held by Young, who undoubtedly can do with a rest, so consistently arduous have been his task, will be successful remains to be seen. It is just possible that Booth will be one of the eleven. He will play if Ashworth “is not fit.” The latter implies no injury, simply that the amateur has had so lengthy a cut off from football that he might not feel able to do his side full justice.
S.M writes under the nom-de-plume of “Credit Where It Is Due” as follows;-
I think the views of your correspondent “One Who Was There” on last Saturday’s match are distinctly one-sided. I, for one, fully agree with Bee that Everton were decidedly lucky to win; In fact, had it not been for Roose’s wonderful display of goalkeeping Newcastle would have won easily. I venture to think that the vast majority of the spectators present are of the opinion that Newcastle deserved to win.

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.

TOMORROW’S TEAM ARRANGEMENTS
 Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 20 January 1905
Everton v Preston North End.- At Preston; kick-off 2.45. teams leaves Exchange Station at 12.50. Everton; L.R. Roose, goal; W. Balmer and R. Balmer, backs; S. B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Rankin, McDermott, Settle, and H.P. Hardman. Reserve, McLaughlin.
Everton Reserve v Preston North End Reserve -at Goodison =-park; Kick-off at 2.45.
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Williams, and Hutchinson, half-backs; McLaughlin, Thorburn, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.

EVERTON’S EXCELLENT CHANCE
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 21 January 1905
There was every reason for friends of Everton to be in great good spirits after the match with Newcastle. The points placed the Toffess in a better position, having reference to the number of games played, then any team in the division bar the Tynesiders themselves and the margin by which the latter lead the way is not so large that there can be the least degree of certainly about the destination of the championship. In the actual play there were grounds for both delight and disappointment. For instance, Young, the centre forward was off colour, and several of his colleagues were somewhat less satisfactory than usual, while two members of the defence, Booth and W. Balmer were below concert pitch owing to unfitness. The old Blackburn half-back was going lame. He is having no luck this season. Perhaps the best feature of the game with Newcastle was the splendid form of R. Balmer, whose conspicuous success must have bene a source of great pleasure to his elder brother. Rankin, too, is showing his finest form, and if he keeps up to his present standard the International Selection Committee might go gather and fare worse in their search for an outside right.

NORTH END v  EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 21 January 1905
CLOSE GAME AT DEEPDALE
DRAW REPRSENTS THE TRUE FORM
By “Perseus”
A variety of circumstances invested the visit of Everton to Deepdale with special interest. The Goodison Park men undoubtedly form the finest Lancashire team of the season, and their excellent victory over the League leaders last week gives them an improved chance of the championship. They were also the first team to lower the colours of North End this season, and moreover it is eight years since the Prestonians last defeated them. All these things considered, North End’s eager desire for victory to-day was easily understood. The afternoon though cold, was bright and bracing and the ground seemed to be on the hard side. Sand had been liberally spread down the centre from goal to goal, and also along the stand side, but in one or two places small patches of then ice were visible. The North End team was changed in two positions from last week. Catterall displacing Bourne who was dropped on account of poor form, and Derbyshire returning in place of Orrell, who was down with influenza. Everton had the amateur Ashworth in the half-back line vice Booth, the old Rovers, and an experiment was made in the attack, Rankin moving from outside to inside right, and McDermott from the latter position to centre-forward. Young being left out owing to an injured leg. Teams;
North End.- McBridge, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Hunter, and Lyon, half-backs; Bond, Smith, Turnbull, Bell, and Catterall, forwards.
Everton.- L.R. Roose, goal; Balmer (W.) (captain) and Balmer (R.), backs; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Rankin, McDermott, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.  Referee; Mr. J. Lewis, Blackburn.
Everton won the toss, and in the presence of 12,000 spectators Turnbull started towards the town goal. A free kick against McLean was quickly cleared, and the North End made a smart attack, from which the goal had a narrow escape. Hands against Settle enabled Hunter to take a free kick several yards outside the penalty line, and he shot swiftly but outside, Sharp was soon seen to be sprinting along the visitors’ right, but he failed to get in his centre; and Bell and Catterall changed the scene of play. W. Balmer returned, and Settle was conspicuous in a clever movement. McBride easily caught a bouncing shot, and on another occasion showed excellent judgement in running out and so spoiling Sharp who might otherwise have got in a dangerous shot. Bell, Catterall, and Lyon were next prominent, but Rodway kicking too strongly, sent wide. R. Balmer, Abbott and Taylor were conspicuous in repelling another Preston attack, and at the other end Derbyshire prettily intercepted a pass from Hardman to McDermott. The firm ground and lively ball gave the players some trouble and after Sharp had beaten Rodway in clever style, he sent the ball behind. Bell was mainly responsible in starting Bond, and the latter made a clever pass to Smith, whose unfortunately struck an opponents as soon as it left his foot. The Everton left wing carried play to the other end and from a corner, well placed by Hardman, Settle sent over. Good work by Smith, followed by a free kick, enabled North End to become dangerous, but Bell was offside. The attack was renewed and the Everton goal was placed in grave peril as the result of a corner won by Bond. Roose saved from McLean, and then an illegal throw-in brought relief. The Prestonians were having rather the better of the game. R. Balmer came under notice for a splendid kick. Hunter received a nasty blow on the face from Abbott, against whom a free kick was given. A corner followed, but this was cleared, and Settle started Hardman by a judicious pass, only for the ex-Blackpool player to centre somewhat feebly. A rousing effort to capture the Everton goal elicited applause, but Bond eventually headed just outside. The play immediately following was fairly even, Rodway beat Rankin in the smartest fashion, and Lyon easily checked Sharp. Taylor and Hunter both did clever things but Abbott fouled Smith. From this McLean shot accurately and Roose had only just saved when two Prestonians charged him through. Hunter next caused Roose trouble with a dropping shot, and then the play was transferred. A shot from Settle was lucky diverted at the cost of a corner. From this McDermott opened the score; for through the ball was cleared Mr. Lewis, who was in a splendid position, ruled that it had been through. This the visitors secured the lead after half an hour’s play. After a few moments North End recovered from this set back and a hot assault on Roose’s charge was seen. Hunter drove very close, and after a dash by Turnbull, Catterall fired over at a furious rate. A later attack was ended by Bond getting offside. The work of the Preston forwards just now was more dashing than at any previous point, and well merited success. Everton retaliated, and Hardman was left in possession of a rare chance, but shot weakly outside, a mistake which Rankin also made after clever combination between McDermott and the left wing. North End again tied to get on terms, and their attack was of a severe charcater, the ball several times being worked within a few yards of Roose but the defence, by good luck and good play as well, prevailed. R. Balmer was particularly good in the Everton rearguard, and once he beat Smith delightfully. Ashworth started the visiting forwards and McBride saved beautifully from Settle. He also picked up a rare centre from Hardman. The play was interesting, and both goals were assailed with spirt. Half-time-Everton 1, North End 0
The first half had been keenly contested, and an even score would have been a fair indication of the play. At the same time, one could not for the moment question the decision which had given Everton the lead, for Mr. Lewis was right on the goal-line, and in a better position to see the point than any one of the 14,000 spectators. The wind was cold and piercing, and the onlookers were heartily glad when the players came out to renew the struggle. Derbyshire twice had to check the visiting left wing, and R. Balmer pulled up Bond. Rodway subsequently returned strongly and gradually the Prestonians forced their way forward. McLean shooting outside from a splendid position. The lively ball led to a series of mistakes, from which the home team made tacks again, but Roose was easily equal to the occasion. Powerful looking by the Preston backs kept the ball in the Everton half, and Turnbull twice tried to rush the backs, but on each occasion discovered that he could not pass them both. Sound work was accomplished by the Everton defenders and the visiting forwards were well held. The game, however, still favoured North End. A dash by Bell and a centre from Catterall looked almost certain to bring an equaliser, but Smith and Turnbull were just beaten by the ball which bounced rather too quickly, and the goal escaped. At the other end Sharp got close in from a pass by Taylor but Derbyshire headed away, and the home team resumed their pressure. Catterall, however, failing to turn to account clever play by Lyon and Bell. A little later the outside left centred accurately, and next time offside intervened. Everton came perilously near increasing their lead, but McBride performed capitally saving brilliantly from Hardman. Here abouts the Preston defence was subjected to severe pressure and both Derbyshire and Rodway made timely kicks. McDermott’s cleverness frequently attracted notice. Catterall had a rare chance of bringing danger to the Everton goal but he funked an encounter with either Ashworth or W. Balmer and a little afterwards there was not nearly power enough in one of his centres to land the ball into the goalmouth. From a free kick Hunter shot a dozen yards wide, and just now the Preston attack was of poor quality. Bond on the outside right was being badly neglected. Turnbull made the mistake of trying to head the ball when he had no idea as to the location of his colleagues. A clever kick by Lyon was mainly responsible for scrimmage in the Everton goalmouth. Several times Roose’s charge seemed almost certain to fall but Catterall in particular was faulty and the Prestonians were driven out without obtaining the greatly desired goal. A run by Sharp, who outpaced Rodway, brought a centre from which Derbyshire conceded a corner. McBride then fisted away skilfully. Bond was scarcely getting a look at the ball, not having one pass to every four or five sent to Catterall. Once near the Everton goal there was an appeal for a penalty, but the referee saw nothing to justify it, and it began to appear more likely than ever that North End were going to be beaten once more on their own ground. Eleven minutes from time, however, the crowd became wildly enthusiastic. A free kick was awarded for a foul by Settle. Derbyshire took this well, and Smith headed into net, amid tumultuous applause, the ball passing just inside the post. This was now every prospect of an exciting finish. From one team and then the other were aggressive, but neither goal suffered any narrow escape for the present the backs and halves being quite to all demands upon them. A centre by Ashworth looked more promising than previous efforts, but Derbyshire drove into touch and subsequently the same players robbed Settle. A fast shot by Ashworth attracted attention and at the other end a centre from Catterall caused trouble, but Bond was overpowered. A sprint by Hardman diverted notice towards McBride but the old Blackpool player was bustled into shooting weakly. Lyon cleared from a free kick, and North End were attacking when time was called. Final; North End 1 Everton 1.

EVERTON RESERVE v  PRESTON NORTH END RESERVE
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 21 January 1905
At Goodison Park, in fine weather, on hard ground, which, however, was well sanded. Preston won the toss, and Everton started with ten men, Thorburn, the centre, being away. Play opened in quiet fashion, neither side risking much, and their movements were made very gingerly. Bourne tried a long shot, but was very wide; while later Kitchen saved a long one from Walne. Everton pressed afterwards and forced a couple of corners, but the Preston defence was too good. Thorburn now took his place at centre. The Blues had rather more of the game than North End, but Taylor was not seriously troubled, the game being very slow. Preston broke away on several occasions. Kitchen once making a clever save when hard pressed. Taylor afterwards saved a beauty from Evans. There was no score after 30 minutes play, but subsequently Everton attacked incessantly, and Taylor’s charge had numerous escapes. The Preston keeper, however, was equal to all demands and saved finely from Thorburn, Dilly and Evans. Try as they would Everton failed to pierce the Preston defence.
Half-time-Everton Reserve 0, North End Res 0
Resuming after the interval play was faster than in the initial half. The teams were so evenly matched that neither could claim a decided advantage, the defence on either side prevailing over the attack. Taylor had more to do than Kitchen, but kept a good goal. Both sides tried hard before the finish, but failed.
Result- North End Res 0, Everton Res 0

EVERTON v  PRESTON NORTH END
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 21 January 1905
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
EVERTON LEAD AT HALF-TIME
The Everton eleven travelled to Preston to-day to meet the North End Club in their return League engagement. The Goodison Park brigade are performing so well just at present that this afternoon’s encounter was looked forward to with considerable confidence by the Everton directors. The match evoked so much keen interest that several thousand supporters made the journey to the ground at Preston in order to witness the encounter. The weather was mild and fine, and in Preston itself the liveliest anticipations prevailed a steady stream of spectators setting in for Deepdale before two o’clock. As previously announced in our columns there was quite a reshuffling of the Everton ranks; Young, owing to an injured knee, was forced to stand down, and the centre position was entrusted to McDermott. Sharp reappeared after his lengthy absence, and he was partnered by Rankin. Booth was another absentee, and his place was filled by Ashworth. The North End team was at full strength, and the men lined up as follows;-
Everton.- Roose, goal; W, Balmer (captain), and R. Balmer, backs; Ashworth, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Rankin, McDermott, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
North End.- McBride, goa;; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Hunter and Lyon, half-backs; Bond, Smith, Turnbull, Bell, and Catterall, forwards.
Referee- J. Lewis, of Blackburn.
The Deepdale enclosure as usual was on the soft side, but a liberal sprinkling of sand made the playing patch very fair. Everton won the toss, and Turnbull set the ball in motion towards the town goal in the presence of fully 12,000 spectators. After the opening exchanges the visitors at once moved down, and Settle being fouled the home goal was jeopardised. Bell, however, cleared, and the centre was visited. The home forwards then made ground finely on the left, and Jack Bell put in a clinking shot against his old club mates; fortunately for the Evertonians Balmer, sen., was in the way, and he succeeded in clearing his lines. A forward movement on the part of Sharp and Rankin came to nothing, and it was not long before the Northenders were again exercising pressure. The brothers Balmer, however, routed the invaders, and the Everton right wing against go going, but Sharp was too slow, and a nice opportunity was lost. The game now opened out considerably, and both ends were visited in turn, but without any result. The teams hitherto appeared to be fairly evenly balanced, and if the visitors were smarter on the ball than their opponents, they were at the same time met with very sound defence. Sharp and Rankin put ion a smart bit of work, but it came to nothing, and a subsequent advance on the part of Settle and Hardman was equally unfruitful. The next item of interest was a breakaway by Sharp, but he finished wretchedly, and a moment later Bond and Smith were racing away in the direction of Roose. The outside man completely beat the younger Balme, and centred finely, but just as Smith was about to shoot he was grassed, and the danger was averted. The visitors in turn took up the attack, and working cleverly down, Settle forced a corner. This was capitally placed, and Settle rushing in, headed the ball over the bar. Following upon this the North Enders got down in most determined fashion and young Balmer, making a miskick, left an open goal; but Smith, who ran to net the ball, was pulled up for being offside. This led to a further attack on the Everton goal, and for some moments the visitors had a very anxious time. Turnbull and Bell both put in shots, but without effect, and then the pressure was relieved by Taylor. Abbott took up the running, and coming into violent collision with Hunter, the game was delayed for a little time, the Prestonian being injured slightly in the face. On resuming the North Enders moved down in nice combined order, and Turnbull from rather long range put in a swift shot, which Roose fisted clear. The home side were now enjoying the best of the argument, and for some considerable time they quite monopolised the pressure. Bond got down on the wing in very pretty fashion, and he finished by shooting strongly. W. Balmer rushed at the ball, but completely misjudged it, and a goal seemed certain, when Roose came to the rescue by picking the leather up and throwing clear. The Everton supporters who were present in very considerable force, now began to feel uneasy at this continued pressure, and they were much relieved when Roose saved grandly from a corner. At length  the visitors got going in fine fashion, and from close range Settle put in a glorious shot. The ball, however, struck one of the home backs and went outside. From the assuming corner there was a terrific struggle in front of the home goal, and McDermott eventually headed into the net. McBride caught the ball, but Mr. Lewis ruled that it was within the net, and he promptly allowed a goal. After this reverse the home side played up with renewed dash and earnestness, and once more the visitors were subjected to a terrific bombardment. The whole forward line was concerned in an ominous movement, but the danger was negatived by Catterall, who was close in, shooting high over the bar. After this the Everton forwards treated the crowd to some exceedingly pretty footwork, but it ended in Rankin shooting over a few seconds later Everton returned to the attack, again without success, Hardman’s shot passing harmlessly across the goalmouth. The Northenders moved down by a series of easy stages, but their shooting in front of goal was rather wild, and thus several fine openings were lost. On one occasion Smith put in a long, dropping shot, which was somewhat luckily headed away by W. Balmer, and a moment later Bond worked his way through and seemed certain of scoring when Abbott nipped in and cleared the danger. A series of throws in were in favour of Everton, and Rankin looked very like running through when he was grassed by Rodway. The visitors, however, persisted in pressing, and a corner was forced on the right. This was well placed by Sharp but Settle headed in, but McBride was on the alert and he saved situation with great cleverness. Still Everton attacked, and a hot shot was put in by Hardman, but again the home custodian proved equal to the occasion. Just before the interval Sharp came in collision with Rodway and was hurt, but he speedily resumed. Nothing more happened before half-time.
Final Result Preston North End 1 goal, Everton 1 goal.

EVERTON v PRESTON NORTH END
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 21 January 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV A
Always an interesting fixture, there was quite a good crowd at Goodison Park, to witness the return game between these teams.
Everton.- Kitchen; Wildman and McCartney; Hanlin, Williams, and Hutchinson, Roche, McLoughlin, Thorburn, Dilly, and Evans.
Preston.- Taylor; Warner, Tod; Wilcox, Fare and Butterworth; Rodger, McKie, Walne, Wilson, and Bourne.
Everton turned out with only ten men, Thorburn, whose initial appearance was keenly anticipated being an absentee. Preston won the toss, and Everton commenced with four forwards. The opening play went in favour of the Blues, who forced a couple of corners early on. Quiet and even play was the order for some minutes, neither side doing anything worthy of note. Fare subsequently got his front rank going, but Bourne from the left finished with a wretched shot. Thorburn now made his appearance and with their full compliment Everton shaped better. A sudden burst by North End caused Wildman to kick back to Kitchen, who, however, had plenty of room to clear, and twice within the next minute Walne and Bourne were pulled up for offside. Play again turned in Everton’s favour, although, even allowing for the hard ground, their play was anything but brilliant. After a long spell of slow work the North Enders came right through the Everton lines, and some exciting exchanges occurred on the goal line, but Kitchen twice saved in his best style. Everton woke up after this, and Evans rapped a couple of hot shots at Taylor, who however, was not caught napping. Thorburn next came under notice, taking the ball along at a great pace and hooking it towards goal while on the run, but Taylor saved again. Everton pressed incessantly at this period, and the Preston goal had many narrow shaves. Try as they might the Blues could not get through, and when the interval arrived neither side had scored.
Final.- Everton Reserve nil, Preston North End Reserve nil.

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.

THE MATCH AT DEEPDALE
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 23 January 1905
In making a draw with Everton who are running strongly for the League Championship, North End, says “Perseus” achieved a result which was probably quite as satisfactory as the majority of their supporters had expected. A little luck, however, or, what is even more important, a little better play might have made the issue all that the most optimistic could have looked for. If only the forwards had been up to the standard of the defence, the game might well have been won outright, but unfortunately one has to repeat the old story of strong play by the halves and backs being discounted by the moderate work of the forwards. There were good points in the play of the Preston quintette, notably the clever passing of Bell, the dash of several members of the line, and the accurate centres which Catterall sometimes sent across; and there were periods when the pressure on the Everton goal was severe. So much for the good points! Turning to the weaknesses of the attack, it may be said that those of the forwards whose control of the ball is only moderate found it very difficult to keep it under command owing to the firm ground and the consequent liveliness of the ball. It required men with the skill of Bell, Settle, and McDermott to control it effectively.
THE PLAYERS INDIVIDUALLY
Turnbull seemed at a great disadvantage in this respect, especially in trapping the ball, and he was inclined to turn his back to his own goal, and play the ball without first locating the positions of his fellow-forwards. His best points were earnestness and energy, both qualities which are essential to success, but which cannot achieve it of themselves. Smith was rather more useful than Turnbull, and always followed up spiritedly, but I wish he would devote more attention to Bond. His chief work should be to provide openings for his partner, but he seldom seemed to realise this, and it is impossible for Bond to regain his form without better feeding. Catterall, taking the place of Bourne, was an improvement on that player, yet he was not nearly so good as at Sunderland, and with the chances Bell gave him he might have brought more danger to the Everton headquarters. He needs to exhibit more dash and to play up to the opposing half and full back more pluckily and also to avoid wasting time in getting the ball in position for centring with his right foot when he could send it across more promptly with the left. These are points in which he may improve.
A DIFFICULT PROBLEM
I cannot help thinking that in view of the Cup tie a fortnight hence the directors have an awkward problem to solve, viz., how best to constitute the forward line. I certainly think that Wilson is bound to be reinstated it fit, possibly as inside right, with Smith in his only true position, centre forward. Bond needs a better partner than of late. Turnbull may yet justify the hopes which led the directors to engage him, for he played with some promise on his first appearance, but meantime he might gain valuable experience of English football in the Combination team. In any case, it is to be hoped that his poor form of Saturday will not discourage him, for he may be capable of something much better. The North End defence was as usual, excellent, and Lyon played such a sterling game that I see no reason why he cannot successfully play the “policeman” to Bloomer in the Cup tie if he sets himself to attend only to the famous international. Hunter and McLean also performed capitally, tackling with great keenness and the backs were a rare pair. Rodway back on his old wing, was in his happiest humour, and there are few players with sounder judgement. Derbyshire’s reappearance was entirely satisfactory, and the club is fortunate in possessing three such backs as Rodway, Orrell and Derbyshire. McBride is blamed in some quarters for indifferent in running out to try and clear the corner kick from which Everton scored, but there can be no difference of opinion as to the brilliance of his work on other occasions.
WITH THE EVERTONIANS
Everton’s defence was also good, yet not a whit superior to North End’s. Roose was alert and agile in goal, and he has a rather showy style. R. Balmer, the younger of the two brothers playing back, was in fine form. He was speedy, timed his tackling excellently, and above all, he kicked magnificently. There was no better half-back on the side than the veteran. Taylor, though Abbott ran him close, while Ashworth was good without being quite so powerful as the other two. With the Everton forwards I was disappointed. McDermott though out of his position, proved himself a master of bewildering footwork, even Settle, clever as he is, being outshone in this respect. The Scotchman was the best of the visiting forwards, and the left wing, Settle and Hardman was distinctly preferable to the right, for though Hardman was not in his smartest form, he and his partner got on together far better than the experimental combination, Rankin and Sharp, neither of whom made much headway, the latter being nothing nearly so incisive as when last at Preston, when he won the game with a rare shot. I should have said that the goals were scored by McDermott (for Everton, after half an hour’s play) and by Smith (for North End, 11 minutes from the close). In the case of the visitors’ point, the ball was cleared by Derbyshire, but Mr. John Lewis, the referee, who was in a splendid position, unhesitatingly ruled that it had been over the line. The game was contested keenly, but without any of those illegitimate practices which married the game at Derby a week earlier.

McCLURE
Belfast Telegraph - Monday 23 January 1905
By Ralph the Rover
I have had a long letter from Norman McClure, late of Linfield, but now of Derry Celtic, informing me that he has definitely decided to retire from the game. He has been prompted in arriving at this decision by the fact that he has restarted business again in his old situation in one of the largest manufacturing houses in Derry. Derry Celtic will feel his loss very much, as he was mainly instrumental in the defeat of Shelbourne at Derry on Saturday week.
McClure has been good enough to send me the correspondence that passed between him and the secretary of the Everton club, Mr. W. C. Cuff, with referee to his playing for the Liverpudlians, and lest there should be any doubt in the minds of my readers as to the correctness of the report that Everton were negotiating for his transfer I reproduce a wire and a letter received by Mr. McClure. The wire is dated the 18th, is addressed to Mr. McClure, and reads as follows;-
 “Come immediately. Selected for Saturday next.- Football, Liverpool.”

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post – Monday 23 January 1905
In view of the close running for championship honours, the meeting between Everton and Preston North End at Deepdale was looked forward to with more than ordinary interest. The fixture attracted a large gathering, many having made the journey from Liverpool, and though the conditions were not altogether favourable to a high class exposition of the game, it’s varying stages were followed with the keenest interest. The ground was frost-bound, and it was but natural that precautionary methods should prevail. It was some time ere the players moved about with any degree of confidence. Nevertheless there was always sufficient interest in the proceedings to render the game most attractive. At the outset the home side went off at a great pace, and it was evident that the spectators were in for a good afternoon’s sport. Severe pressure was brought to bear upon the Everton defence and it was not until the visiting forwards settled down to a comfortable football that they gave any indication of being able to hold their own. Then followed some really clever play on both sides and a fine shot from Settle when within a few yards of goal brought about a corner kick, from which McDermott scored. Subsequently play in the first half was all in favour of Everton, but on the general run of the game in this moiety there was little to choose between the teams. The second portion was heatedly and earnestly contested. The home side put forward tremendous efforts to reduce the lead, and their persistency was rewarded towards the close of the game, when they took full advantage of a free kick close in and equalised. Neither of the goals scored by the sides was of exceptional merit, indeed they were rather of the lucky order. Little exception could be taken to the play of the forwards in midfield work, but when it came to a master of shooting their efforts were generally of the most elementary fashion. From an Everton point of view there was much speculation as to how McDermott would fare as the pivot of the attack. It may at once he stated that he gave a very creditable display in a position that is no sinecure. It was of course too much to expect that he should distribute the work and keep his line together with the efficiency of seasoned centre forward; still he attained a good standard and his cleverness in controlling the ball often enabled him to avoid opponents and flash the leather out to his wing men. In this matter he was fairly accurate and much of the success of Hardman and Sharp resulted from well-placed passes from the centre. While the quality of forward play was scarcely all that could be desired, there could be no getting away from the fact that the Everton quintet were the cleverer exponents. There was, however, no finality to their movement for there was scarcely a shot of exceptional merit sent in to the Preston custodian. In fact, Hardman was the only player in the line who seriously tested McBride and much of the really serious work of the quintet in working the ball down to within shooting range was short of its attractiveness by crude finishing touches. Settle was rarely prominent, and Rankin was not very successful as inside right to Sharp. The last named put in several dashing runs along the wing, and occasionally finished up with well-directed centres, but still the right wing play was not one of the strong points. The North End forwards had more chances of scoring than their opponents. They were fairly well handled by Turnbull in the centre, and many were the smart flashes along the right wing that caused the Everton defender much anxiety. At outside right Bond showed much cleverness in outwitting an opponent, and would probably have severed on more than one occasion had be not attempted to get too close in to goal. Bell, the ex-Evertonian played a very useful game at inside left, but his partner Catterall, who played his first game at home was not a success and much of the veteran’s good work was allowed to go abegging. That the forwards should have been allowed little quarter in the matter of shooting testifies ably to the abilities of the respective half-backs. The Everton trio played a good game, especially Taylor, who was connected in the breaking up of almost every attack on the part of the North Enders. His tackling was clean his passing accurate, and his kicking when under pressure strong and well directed, and it was unfortunate that the point secured by Preston was the outcome of the only slip he made during the courses of the game in unfairly charging an opponent from a throw-in. Ashworth was not a great success, but at the other end of the line Abbott was in rare trim, used this well for his side as he had a difficult customer to deal with in Bond. Hunter, the North End centre half displayed plenty of resource and the line as a whole played above the average standard. At full back the brothers Balmer were more reliable than Derbyshire and Rodway. The youngster Balmer was the most finished exponent of back play. His ready tackling and timely clearances caught the eye of the big crowd, while, in addition he was frequently in evidence with smart ground passes to Hardman. His brother kicked powerfully and tackled fearlessly, but when the home side were swooping down he was inclined to get too near goal, to the discomfiture of Roose, who on one occasion saved in dexterous fashion after the right back had missed his kick a couple of yards from goal. Rodway played a capital full back game, and both custodians showed good judgement in dealing with what few shots came their way. McBride was tested with a difficult ball from Hardman after a splendid run down by Sharp in the closing stages of play, and few keepers could have gathered and cleared with better judgement. Summing up the game, though not brilliant, was always interesting, and a division of honours was a fairly accurate reflex of the run of the play.

BEE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 23 January 1905
Everton made approaches to their neighbours with a view to getting the cup tie played at Goodison. These were their reasons; (1) For Liverpool to play at Goodison is not like Middlesbrough, playing at Newcastle, as the Anfielders would be just at home on Everton’s ground as at Anfield; (2) that many Liverpool supporters must be unable to get admission on that great day if the tie is played at Anfield; (3) that by playing at Goodison the whole of both clubs’ supporters could get admission and have a clear view of the ground. Liverpool very sternly refused to be brought over, and straightaway Messrs McKenna, Cuff, and Tom Watson held a conference on general matters connected with the tie in order that there may be no hitch when Saturday week comes round.
There is much to be said in favour of the tie being played at Everton, one great point being that all supporters could witness the game, whereas it is reasonable to assume that many people will be unable to gain admission. However, I am a staunch supporter of the “As the draw is made so it should be played” rule as a matter of principle.
McDermott has had the honour of gaining the two goals put past McBride. As a centre forward, I am told, “he was very fair indeed.” My informant went on to say that he distributed the work, reasonably well, and the line was kept moving smartly. His passes were accurate, and on the whole one must congratulate McDermott on his very creditable debut as pivot. The inside forwards were not successful, and their outside partners were responsible for smart work.
Here are “Programme” contradiction. Page 3- “There has been a disposition in some quarters to deem Everton lucky to win their match with Newcastle United; but I fail to see where the grounds for such an utterance are founded.” There on page 14;- “Everton were lucky to get both points.” Small Heath like the North. They have been to Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Newcastle, and won each time. Saturday was the first home defeat of the League leaders, and Everton have still a chance for the honours even now.
There was just one important feature about the reserve match at Goodison on Saturday. That was the first appearance of Thorburn the ex-Queen’s Parker. It will be remembered that he had the misfortunate in the practice game to injure his knees so badly that a three months’ rest at the least was advisable, and his appearance in the football arena became a matter of speculation. Thornburn reported himself fit to turn out on Saturday, but, having regard to the frozen state of the ground, he had instructions not to take any risks. Sensibly enough, he didn’t. There were a few rabid supporters present who had come purposely to watch him, and they went away disappointed no doubt. It may be just as well to inform those people that Thorburn’s mission on Saturday was not to play serious football, but simply to try his leg, and the fact that he pulled up sound ought to be consoling. He will continue to exercise himself in the Combination team just to regain confidence and strength. He is a genuine “spider” and plays the Q.P game. Some day when he is fit and well again he may get his chance; and there are not a few who are fully confident in his ability to fill the centre position. At any rate, Thorburn himself is most anxious to give of his best for the Everton Club.

FOOTBALL FRAGMENTS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 24 January 1905
Tom Booth, the Everton skipper, has to have message treatment at Manchester this week. It is not likely he will be fit for Saturday’s match.
Everton’s home record is;- Won 8, lost 1, drawn 2, for 24, goals against 8; away; won 5, lost 5, drawn 2, goals for 19, goals against 17.
 “Efficiency” writes as follows;- In all probability the little affair at the beginning of the year (the defeat of Everton by Liverpool) will prove to have been a blessing in disguise for the Toffeyites, for it will not only serve as a stimulus to win the coming cup tie but the team will feel more at home on their second appearance at Anfield. With due respect to the ability of the men of the red jerseys I hardly think that can expect to come off best if they meet their clever local rivals at the top of their form. Indeed, who could wish for a better exhibition of scientific football than is shown by the Goodison-road men when at their best? I do not intend to prognosticate the exact result but I feel confident that the “blues” will enter the next stage of the competition without the necessity of a replay.
J. Izal and many other correspondents are concerned about the sizes of the Everton and Liverpool grounds. It will probably come as a surprise to most people to know that the playing space of the two teams is almost identical. The Football Association rules fixes the maximum length at 130 yards and the minimum at 100 yards, the maximum width at 100 yards, and the minimum at 50 yards. Everton’s ground is 118 yards by 75 and Liverpool’s 120 by 75.
Here is an epistle from “Natalia” – Now that the draw for the English Cup has been made, and our two local rivals are pitted against each other, I should like to suggest that the clubs arrange to play the match at Goodison Park. There is not doubt that, given decent weather, there will be some thousands of people unable to gain admission to the Anfield enclosure, which at the outside can accommodate but 38,000. The fact that Liverpool would be playing on “foreign” soil would make no difference in the matter of support, it would simply mean more support for both sides. Should this step be taken I confidently anticipate a gate that would put all previous records in the shade, and both clubs would benefit financially.
 “Natalia” is out of gear with fact when he mentions the Anfield accommodation. The number should be 27,000. It is estimated that 52,000 can witness a game at Goodison.
Everton were wise when they refused to part with “Jock” Taylor to Preston North End early last season. It is asserted that Rankin should not be moved from the outside right position in view of Sharp’s lack of form.

NEW AMATEUR FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 24 January 1905
The Everton directorate have been fortunate in securing the signature of Mr. Fred Littleton as an amateur for the team. He is only 19 years of age, and he is the proud possessor of six medals for football. he is at present playing half-back for Waterloo Marine, and he has also played for the Northern Nomads this season against Preston North End Reserve with distinct success, being the only scorer for the Nomads in the match.

BOROUGH v  EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 25 January 1905
By Bee
For the last match of the first month of the New year Everton receive a visit from Middlesbrough, and it is most likely that they will manage to wind up the month with a record of five points out of a possible eight. The Ironopolis side have had to rely on quite a large number of reserve this season, injuries to players having seriously depleted their team. Nevertheless, Evertonians cannot view the match with calmness, because Northerners within this month have made bold and at times successful efforts to get out of the promotion downward step. Away they have been inefficient, as their record proves as they share with Wolverhampton in having gone through more than half the season without getting both points on other clubs’ grounds. Many theories have been advanced to account for the persistent failure of clubs when playing away from home. McColl once said that there was no reason why players should not win away from home quite as often as they do when playing before their own supporters, but the melancholy fact remains that Wolverhampton Wanderers and Middlesbrough have not yet this season experienced the delight of gaining both points when playing away from home, and it is most unlikely that Everton will allow the Middlesbrough men to make them their first spoils. Besides our men have a goal to nil defeat of October 1 to wipe out. If the Blues front line will adapt themselves to the long passing game, and the inside men indulge in long drives to their opposite outside men- overcrowding and hampering each other have been too apparent recently- there can be no doubt as to the ultimate gaining of two points. I have seen the successful Heathens in some four or five matches this season, and attribute their exalted position to the fact that they combine dash with a little scientific footwork and rely on long passes. For example, inside right swings the ball out to outside left who is left unguarded, the play having drawn practically all the players to the right portion of the ground. It is very simple, yet how often do we see a wing pair pass and repass when tackled, whereas the unworked outside wing men has an open goal before him.

EVERTON MANY CHANGES
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 26 January 1905
By Bee
Again this week the Everton directors have made several changes in the composition of their team which meets Middlesbrough on Saturday. Compared with last week, John Sharp, who has not played as the Sharp of last season, a displaced by Rankin, and McDermott is selected to appear at his most accustomed spot, Young being appointed centre forward once more. Makepeace is fit for service after a month’s absence and he will therefore cause the dropping of Ashworth the line being completed by Taylor and Abbott. It is unfortunate that Crelly is not fit for service yet, and it is a matter of fortune that the club have a very capable stock of backs in the reserve string. The younger Balmer is filling the breach caused by Crelly’s absence. The men have not been sent away in view of the coming cup-tie at Anfield. They are pinning their trust to home work. They will visit Leasowe Hills some days, Freshfield others, and neighbouring suburbs on other occasion. Change of scene, therefore is the policy of the club.
“Fair play” (Tranmere) writes;-
Being a supporter of the Liverpool Football Club, I should like to beg a small space in your very valuable and well-read paper, to say a word concerning the coming cup-tie. There have bene many suggestions about the desirability of the tie being played at Goodison Park, in view of the latter having a larger accommodation. It is all very well to look at it from that point of view, but it would be very unfair to the supporters of the Anfield club, and I am sure the loyal supporters of the latter would be very much disappointed indeed, as it would make their favourites’ chance of further participating in the competition very remote; whereas, if the tie be played at Anfield, I feel sure Liverpool will come out on top, and will not only have another “gate” to share, but will be the means of assuring their followers of the game in Liverpool and elsewhere that they are class enough for the higher circle and I trust that when the men get sound and fit again they will exert themselves to their utmost in their remaining matches (especially their League fixtures) and get back amongst the clubs they deserved to be with. I should like to see a more learned pen than mine pass his opinion. 
There is a momentous problem for the Liverpool directors. Probably 40,000 people will strive to get admission to the Anfield enclosure, which has a holding capacity of 27,000. As the schoolboy tell us, “40,000 into 27,000 won’t go.” Now then, how are the officials going to prevent a fiasco? I would suggest that they issue 27,000 tickets from a certain central place, and that ticket-holders only should be admitted. Also that the Walton Breck-road side should be partitioned off to prevent any rushing of the turnstiles. One further suggestion. The club might earn everlasting gratitude by instructing a sturdily-built stern steward to keep the Press-box clear of intruders. To save any concern the directors should have the stands inspected. By doing so they will give great satisfaction to the public.
The kick-off is to take place at 3.15 and so it is a certainly that thousands will make their way to Anfield before even two o’clock for the “first come, first served” principle will be an important factor in getting admission on this great occasion. How to best pass the time away prior to the kick-off is to purchase a copy of the “Liverpool Echo Sporting Dairy.” In it are the Everton and Liverpool team’s photographs, a characteristic cat-like movement by Roose, principal races for the year 1906, trotting fixtures, records, photos of leading Australian cricketer, the Lancashire and Yorkshire fixtures for the coming season.

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.

ASSOCIATION
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 27 January 1905
Everton v. Middlesbrough.- League match at Goodison-park; 3 o’clock. Everton;
Roose, goal; W. Balmer and R. Balmer,, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Chester. Friendly match at Chester; 2.45.
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Littleton, half-backs; Roberts, Caldwell, Roach, Dilly, and Evans, forwards.

VISITORS TO EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 27 January 1905
By Bee
Middlesbrough, who are due at Everton, have decided to rely upon the same team, with one exception, that defeated Derby County- A. Jones is to be reintroduced at centre half. The side to appear at Goodison Park will, therefore, be;- Williamson; McCullum and Agnew; Aitken, A. Jones, and Cassidy; Davies, Atherton, Astley, Thackeray, and Roberts. The inclusion of Jones is a matter of gratification for the Cameron Highlander- West Bromwich is a lively footballer, with a rare sense of humour. His brother Will, nick-named “Jonah” by the Small Heath crowd, has made a great name at centre forward this season. He is a pipe manufacturer as well as goal scorer, and in each case is successful. Trim Atherton the captain, is a business-like forward, and though twenty-eight years old, he still stands well for Welsh International honours. Davies will be quickly recognised. He is a plump, sandy-haired enthusiast who was greatly missed by the Albion. He is amateur. The weighty Cassidy is now in this thirty-second year, and still plays a fine open game. We remember Williamson, the Borough goalkeeper, for it was at Goodison in 1903 that he made his debut. He commanded the position by sheer force of merit, and when it is known that he is only twenty years old his guarding of the goal is all the more remarkable. As the ground will probably be on the hard side the players will doubtless indulge in more ground play than usual, and that being so, one anticipates some excellent foot-work on the part of the Everton attackers, and goals should be fairly numerous. The Everton directors continue the praise-worthy idea of trying to unearth a good local player. Littleton, of Marine and Waterloo Ramblers, is given an opportunity this week.

EVERTON v  MIDDLESBROUGH
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 28 January 1905
THE INTERVAL ARRIVES WITH A BLANK SHEET
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Everton’s opponents at Goodison Park is the Middlesbrough team, who occupy a lowly place in the League circles when compared with the exalted position of their Northern neighbours Sunderland and Newcastle United. It could hardly be expected that such a feeble combination would prove much of an attraction to such connoisseurs as the Everton crowd, and especially as they have lost ever away match this season. Everton, however, occupy such a foremost position at present that a big crowd could not resist witnessing the game, which might easily enough result in placing Everton right at the top. Furthermore, the weather was mind, and sunny, and early on the game gave promise of being witnessed under ideal conditions.
Everton.- Roose, goal; Wildman and R Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Middlesbrough.- Williamson, goal; McCullum, and Agnew, backs; Aitken, Jones and Cassidy, half-backs; Gittens, Atherton (captain), Astley, Thackerey, and Roberts, forwards.
Referee.- Mr. J.W. Bailey.
About 15,000 spectators were present when Astley kicked off, the Middlesbrough men having the sun in their eyes. The game had only been in progress a couple of minutes when the Everton front rank went away, Young and McDermott putting Rankin in possession, a fine shot coming from this quarter. Only Williamson’s cleverness saved the situation. Soon afterwards Davies received the ball, but failed to get in his centre; but shortly Middlesbrough showed better footwork and pressed their opponent back, finishing up with a corner, which, however, was scarcely managed in first-class fashion. The visitors forward line were operating very neatly. Astley initiating some pretty leads, which were taken up by both wings in  capital style but the Everton backs summed up the various situations to a nicety and there was more method than energy in the Ironfounders attack. Settle and Hardman made strenuous efforts to force the visitors’ defence on their wing, but Hardman was toppled over full length by Agnew. The attack was continued in the centre, where Young at last found an opening and let drive at Williamson, only, however, to miss the net by a rare foot. Middlesbrough made a brave effort to dash off, but the watchful Taylor denied them, and once more Everton returned to the attack. A further spell of pressure by the homesters was checked by Agnew, after which the visitors left wing came out strongly. Roberts managed to pass Makepeace and Wildman but his career was cut short by Balmer coming to the rescue. A lively return was taken up by the home right. McDermott just missing from Rankin’s pass. Then Young was robbed of a glorious chance when he was close in goal, and after another fierce attack on the right Rankin ran the ball out. A similar fate attended the attack by the Middlesbrough right, and a little later Makepeace passed to Rankin, who slipped along and once more lost the ball outside. Settle, Young, McDermott, and Rankin then combined and made a better show, Rankin giving Williamson a rare handful. The Blues continued to press heavily on their left, but the Northern’s defence was very stubborn, and a pretty sequence of passes between Settle, Hardman, and McDermott was very smartly checked by Aitken. The Everton quintet were playing extremely clever football, but there was not enough method or resolution in their finals. A free kick to the Borough was neutralised by a vigorously header by Wildman, but the Northerners pluckily returned to the attack on their right, when Abbott and Taylor held them, and the venue was removed across the field, where Hardman dashed into the thick of the fight, but lost his equilibrium in colliding with Jones, who had also dashed across at the same moment. Following a free kick, Atherton succeeded in beating Abbott, and then finished with a weak shot, which Roose easily got rid of. Pressure on the right brought Everton a corner, this being very badly placed by Rankin; but a long return placed the visitors on their trail. Young got in a shot which gave Williamson no trouble, but a minute later fine combination brought Everton back, and a beautiful shot from Young was splendidly saved by Williamson. A rather strong move then came from the North-countrymen at the end of which Thackeray had very hard lines with his shot. The homesters ran down from three-quarters distance, but they failed at the last moment, McCallum somewhat easily checking the left-wingers. Everton were most certainly giving a disappointing display, but one fine vigorous movement nearly achieved the desired object. Young and Settle manipulated in the centre under difficulties, but the Everton centre at last gave Hardman a grand pass, and the outside man let go with a glorious drive, but unfortunately the shot was badly directed. From this, however, a corner came to the Blues who swarmed round Astley and the defeat of the custodian seemed certain, but he defended so gamely that the attack could make no impression, and Astley finally emerged successfully from a most trying ordeal. The Blues still held tenaciously to Middlesbrough territory, but it seemed as if they could not formulate an attack which would prove successful. A dash by the visitors ended in Davies being pronounced offside, after which some lovely play was shown by the home left-wingers and the centre, along with Abbott and Taylor. Unfortunately for the attacking party, McCallum succeeded in checking Hardman at the finish. A cross to the right followed, and here McDermott and has partner went down before Cassidy. Everton kept pegging away, but the visitors succeeded in keeping them in check until half-time, which arrived with no score. Half-time score; Everton nil, Middlesbrough nil.
MAKEPEACE SCORES FROM A PENALTY
EVERTON OPENED FEEBLY
MIDDLESBROUGH PERFORMS WELL
ERRATIC SHOOTING
WILLIAMS’S BRILLIANT CUSTODIANSHIP
MIDDLESBROUGH NEARLY EQUALISE
Resuming, Everton set to work vigorously, McDermott placing to Rankin, who, however, only shot wildly outside instead of centreing. Thackeray then opened up a smart attack, but Roberts was much too slow and Thackeray dashing ahead once more obtained possession and centred splendidly, but Astley was miles away instead of being up to receive. Everton dropped back and made listless and supine efforts as if the task before them was beneath their contempt. The Middlesbrough left made another good effort, but Wildman checked them easily enough. The Northerners continued to make great efforts, as if they thought it was not impossible they might snatch victory. During an attack on the visitors goal, Abbott endeavoured to score, but missed by yards, Middlesbrough replying with a grand move on the part of Roberts, Thackeray, and Astley, which took place close to the Everton goal. Wildman came out on top. A long pass then went to Rankin who was yards offside, and from a free kick against them the homesters went down in a bunch. From a terrific bully just in front of Williamson, the ball came out to Taylor, who sent in a grand long shot, which Williamson jumped up and saved when the ball was about to pass underneath the bar. The visitors got the better in a further bully, but a little later on Everton endeavoured to press an attack home when McCallum fouled Young within the penalty area. Mr. Brierley at once awarded a penalty kick, and from this Makepeace scored for Everton.
Final Result; Everton 1 goal, Middlesbrough nil
Everton won last season’s corresponding fixture by 2 goals to nil.

CHESTER v  EVERTON COMBINATION
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 28 January 1905
These teams met in a friendly game at Chester this afternoon, before a good attendance. Everton started against a stiff breeze, and immediately forced a corner, which was cleared, but Evans, of Everton, returned play. Hughes relieving the pressure. Matthews and Delaney made play on the right, but the former was robbed by Chadwick before he could get in his centre. Eveans, the Cestrian, spoiled the visitors’ combination, and Lipsham getting possession brought out Kitchen, who cleared. After Coventry had saved a good effort by Caldwell White gave Kitchen a rare shot to deal with, which the Toffee custodian did in masterly fashion. Chester kept up the pressure, but Hanlin and Chadwick at back were very safe. Delaney played inside right to Matthews, whilst Dawson played left half, and White centre half the new Liverpool man playing left full back. Coventry saved cleverly from Evans, and immediately afterwards Delaney from a difficult position shot into Kitchen’s hands. A pretty sequence of passing by the Chester forwards was ended by Hutchinson handling, the resulting free kick being easily cleared. Dilly executed a run on his own, but was fouled before getting his shot in, and a fruitless free kick ensued after Chester had turn of pressing. Everton forwards broke away, and Evans finished a fine run with a cross shot which just went wide. Hughes headed out a dangerous shot, and a minute after White hit the upright of the Everton goal with splendid shot, the ball passing outside. Returning to the attack Case missed some splendid opportunities of scoring. Barker afterwards shooting wide. From a corner White netted the ball but was given offside. Immediately after this Case broke away, and despite the fact that he was hampered by the full backs, he hit the upright. Lipsham scoring amidst cheers for the Cestrians.
Half-time- Chester 1 goal Everton nil.

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

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 30 January 1905
It cannot be said that the quality of the football shown by Everton and Middlesbrough at Goodison Park ever exceeded a moderate standard and, whilst the home side gave their most ineffective exhibition this season, the Teesiders failed to utilise the opportunity of registering their first goal in Liverpool. Even after recognising the fact that many earnest endeavours were made by both teams, there can be no denying that there were lacking the necessary polish and finishing touches which alone could save the play from degenerating to a very ordinary level. At no period during the game were those flashes of brilliance witnessed which have in previous matches characterised the movements of the Everton forwards and, though they scrambled through by the aid of a penalty goal, they scarcely deserved the two points. With one exception, the visitors were equal to Everton in every particular, and in opening out the play amongst their forwards they were even superior but in their customary fashion since they commenced coming to Liverpool in search of League spoil the members of their front rank shaped feebly when it came to a question of shooting. Had they exercised more keenness in this vital respect they would assuredly have shared the points, but weakness near goal is evidently their general failing, seeing that they have only scored twenty-one goals in twenty three league matches. In other details they displayed commendable cleverness and could boast a sound defence. Everton started in inspiriting style, but failed to maintain this, though they tested Williamson oftener, and with greater deadliness, than the Middlesbrough quintet troubled Roose. The shot from Young, which was the best bit of work the Everton centre accomplished in the match, was skilfully caught and cleared, and there were about half a dozen others during the afternoon, which came from different quarters. Taylor being responsible for a couple, which were similarly dealt with by the smart Middlesbrough keeper. But the front line as a body was not a success and the men fairly played into the hands of the opposition by keeping the ball too close. Young gave a poor display in the centre, and the doubtless exerted a detrimental influence on the attack generally. Facing him was a centre half who worried him at every move, and, whilst the tactics adopted by Jones can hardly be commended, for they frequently called forth the intervention of the referee, they proved very effective in this case. On some days the Everton centre forward seems to experience no difficulty in getting away, and no sooner receives the pass than he is off down the field with the ball at his toes, leaving the half-backs floundering. Against the Tees-siders he was clumsy and inefficient, and it was evidently an off-day with him. Settle was the pick of an ordinary line, but neither Rankin nor Hardman were seen to advantage, and the extreme right winger made poor use of several chances which were furnished him by McDermott. Better play was witnessed in the half-back division, where Abbott was responsible for a sound, reliable exposition. Taylor has set up such a high standard in his previous performances that the slightest falling away is noticeable, but although he was scarcely so aggressive as usual, he played a good game, Makepeace gain gave evidence of his vast improvement this season, and he was the most successful of the four likely local lads that were tried by Everton in this game. It was a bold experiment which force of circumstances, due to the elder Balmer and Crelly’s indisposition, necessitated, to play Robert Balmer and Wildman at full back, but taking everything into consideration, they filled the position well. Wildman had never previously turned out for the League team, and it is scarcely necessary to point out, the vast difference between first-class football and that played in the Lancashire Combination in which latter tourney he has operated for a couple of seasons. Had either of the usual League backs partnered him, he would have been afforded a better opportunity of demonstrating his abilities. He showed he had football in him, however, and will do better the next time he has the chance of figuring in good company. Young Balmer was not so reliable in his returns, though he cleared well occasionally. Despite these failing on the part of the backs. Roose was rarely requisitioned, and the  only shot that troubled him came about five minutes from the finish, when he effected a splendid clearance from right under the bar. For the visitors, Roberts was in good trim on the extreme left, and his centres were accurately judged, but the inside players were very remiss in utilising the chances which they thus secured. Atherton was also frequently in evidence with neat passing movements and had the whole line been as efficient near goal as they were in working up the ball to a favourable position, they would not have been beaten. Aitken and Cassidy played sturdily at half-back, but Jones spoiled his performance by the numerous fouls he committed. McCallum, the old Liverpool player, and Agnew proved a stalwart pair of backs, their defence being very good, and they stood on no ceremony when it came to a question of clearing there lines. Williamson was, however, the outstanding figure in the Middlesbrough ranks, and amongst a number of capital clearances, the one which he brought off from the free kick taken by Taylor was about the finest. He has always invariably done well in Liverpool and his most recent performance has certainly increased his reputation in this locality. For a custodian that cannot boast a large stature he gets at high shots very smartly, and it was rather unfortunate for him that he should have been called upon to stop a penalty kick for he did not deserve to be beaten.