BOLTON WANDERERS 3 EVERTON 2
March 5, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S PLUCKY FLIGHT.
Truly the unexpected close happen in League football. When the composition of the Everton team to do duty against Bolton Wanderers at Burnden-park became known the general opinion was that the "Blues" would be hopelessly beaten. Victory was declared to be absolutely impossible. Five-nothing or six to nothing against was the mournful cry. Yet in the event the belittled Everton side were only beaten in the last few minutes by an odd goal on a ground where the home side have been pretty well invincible this season. It was an eye-opener to the croakers to find the reorganised team giving such a plucky and wholehearted display. Although the odds were against them they never gave up hope, and so gallantly did they stick to their work that the 22,000 spectators were heartily glad when the end came with their favourites gaining the verdict by the narrow margin of three goals to two. It was something altogether novel to see an Everton forwards line without such noted forwards as Sharp, Settle, and Hardman. Four of the forwards certainly had played in one of more League matches, but apart from Bolton not one of them was a recognised member of the League team, while Wright, who filled the centre forward position, made his first appearance in a League match. True the defence was composed of tried men, and doubtless it was the feeling that in this respect the side was all right, which spurred on the practically untried men to their best efforts.
RUN OF THE PLAY.
The ground itself was in a terribly soft state, and hardly a blade of grass was visible. For all that the spectators were treated to a really interesting and dashing display. In the early stages the Wanderers sharp shooters were seen in an aggressive mood. Shepherd one of the best centre forwards in the county was soon in evidence, and for his clearance of one terrific shot, Scott was cleared to the echo, as he well deserved to be. However after 15 minutes play, the Everton custodian had to acknowledge himself beaten. But it was through no fault of his Stokes sent across a capital centre, which went out to White, who, with no one to disturb him, scored with a fast oblique shot. In no way dismayed Everton kept begging away, and their reward came when after Davies fell full length in attempting to stop a shot from Bolton, Cook rushed up and placed it into the net. Indeed, Bolton had proved himself to be one of the smartest forwards on the field, as Ostick could testify. The struggle continued at a ding-dong pace, with the Wanderers being the better side, a fact which was emphassed when McEwan somewhat luckily obtained a second goal. In the second half of the game, the visiting side were seen to even greater advantage. Following a corner, nicely placed by Donnachie, the veteran Taylor secured possession and equalised with a shot which the goalkeeper never seen until the ball was right on him. Everton played up in such surprising fashion, that it was distinctly hard lines when five minutes from the finish White obtained the deciding goal with a really brilliant shot. Still they did not give up hope, and just as the whistle went, Makepeace appeared bent on repeating his previous week's performance.
THE EVERTON PLAYERS.
Although the new forward line more than exceeded expectations, it was in the matter of defence that Everton excelled. Some captions critics might be inclined to blame Scott for allowing the second goal, but if he were at fault in any degree it was a very slight blemish on a really brilliant exhibition of goalkeeping. Several of his saves being exceptionally clever. Both Hill and Crelly rendered admirable assistance, but it was in the half-back line, that Everton tower of strength lay. There was little to choose between Booth, Taylor, and Makepeace. Each played up to the top of his form, and it was in the main owing to their untiring efforts that the strong Wanderers quintette were for such demon scorers comparatively ineffective. Wright in the centre forward position worked hard, but was outclassed, and by far the most successful part of the visiting attack was the right wing. Bolton in particular distinguishes himself. On the Wanderers side, White was the outstanding forward. Shepherd brings watched too closely to permit him to display his usual brilliance. There was nothing special about the defence and Davies in goal does not appear to be a very safe custodian. Teams: - Bolton Wanderers: - Davies, goal, Baverstock, and Ostick, backs, Robertson, R.Clifford, and Boyd half-backs, Stokes, Marsh, Shepherd, W.White, and McEwan, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goals, Hill, and Crelly, backs, Booth (Captain), Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Birnie, Bolton, R.Wright, Cook, and Donnachie, forwards. Referee R.J.Johns.

A NEW EVERTON FORWARD OF PROMISE
Athletic News - Monday 05 March 1906
In their search for inside right as partner to Sharp the Everton club have been fortunate in securing a player like Hugh Bolton.  Born at Port Glasgow twenty-five years ago, Hugh Bolton, when sixteen, joined the Clydeville. For season and a half he was inside-left, after which he became connected with Port Glasgow Juniors. At times he operated at centre-forward, but in the majority of games played inside-left. For four years he was attached to the Port, and was twice chosen to represent Renfrewshire against Ayrshire, and also for the Junior Scottish International team which defeated Ireland, and made a draw with England. During his stay with Port Glasgow Bolton had the satisfaction of assisting his club to win the championship of the Second Division of the Scottish League. At the close of the last season Bolton was signed by Newcastle United, and played for the champions against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on December 2.  He was of course, understudy to Howie, and when the latter resumed the following week Bolton had to retire. Then came Everton's offer for him, and though the Tynesiders were very unwilling to come to terms they eventually yielded to persuasion. By a curious coincidence, Bolton’s first appearance for Everton was against Newcastle, and he showed such capable form that his success a week later at Everton against Aston Villa was anticipated.  Had bids fair to re-establish the effinency of the right-wing, and with such a sympathetic partner as Sharp he should develop into a most useful Leaguer. Though on the small side, standing 5ft. 6ins, and weighing just over 10st..He is very adept, and possesses a capital knowledge, of the inside game.

FRIGHT FOR BOLTON WANDERERS.
Athletic News-Monday 05 March 1906
By Tityrus.
A performance of “Hamlet” without the moody Dane and the ghost —to adopt an idea from Mr. Asquith's joke in the House of Commons —would be tolerably complete compared with the constitution of the Everton eleven on Saturday. It seemed a farce for the great Goodison Park club to visit Bolton Wanderers without Sharp, Settle, Hardman, Young, Abbott, and even a Balmer—all injured and crippled. That the game was not a mere burlesque against such a dashing team as the Wanderers possess stands 5to the ever-lasting credit of Everton. Tis true the Wanderers won—but only by such margin as 3—2, and that when the forward line of the losers consisted of Donnachie, Cooke, Wright, Hugh Bolton, and Birnie. If the gentle reader rubs his eyes and wonders where this vanguard came from he will be pardoned. I was so stimulated by curiosity that I determined to go to Bolton, and see some of the rising generation—the men who are to play the game in the future. It was a novelty for me to watch a League team with six players I had never seen before, as I think I have a fairly extensive acquaintance with the footballers of the day. Right here, as our American cousins say, let me congratulate the Everton executive on the boldness of their policy and on the talent, which some of these strangers possess. With Bolton at full strength, and on their own peculiar meadow, any team which leaves that field merely a goal in arrear has earned congratulations—whatever they may be worth.
A STRENOUS STRUGGLE.
On the treacherous surface the Wanderers had rather the better of the argument, although the visitors early afforded glimpses of calculated manceurving which suggested a far better fought match than we had anticipated.  Shepherd's dash, the centres of Stokes, and the initiative of Hugh Bolton, of Everton, were the feature of their struggle.  There came a time when the Wanderers were often shooting, and at the end of thirteen minutes  they took the lead.  White passed out to Stokes, who ran a few yards, and gave the ball back to White, who scored with a swift oblique drive into the corner of the goal, where Scott was not.  “Twas a beautiful shot.  Only the grand goalkeeping of Scott prevented White, Shepherd and McEvan from proving deadly.  Despite this severe pressure Hugh Bolton and Birnie were often aggressive, and they rendered the record equal.  Wright giving to Birnie were often aggressive, and they rendered the record equal.  Wright giving to Birnie, he hugged the touchline.  His dribbling was excellent, and when he centred Davies failed to remove the danger.  As he fell near the post he just scooped the ball towards Cooke, who equalized by a shot which struck the underside of the crossbar. Thus the game stood at the end 23 minutes, and if Hugh Bolton had enjoyed the least luck he would have added a second goal, as Davies did not deal effectively with centres from Donnachie and Birne. A keener battle could not have been desired, and only five minutes before the interval did the Wanderers gain any solid advantage. Then Stokes wrested a corner kick from Makepeace. This was so neatly placed that M'Ewan took the ball on the move and forced it —literally forced it—through the hands of Scott, who nevertheless had kept a fine goal.
A DRAMATIC TERMINATION.
In the second half the Wanderers were expected by their supporters to simply annihilate their foemen. But there was no annihilation, for the Everton half-backs played a masterful game. Even when the home vanguard did break through Scott was simply splendid. On the other hand, the Everton middlemen plied their own forwards so well that Bolton Wanderers experienced much difficulty in keeping the enemy at bay. Nor did they succeed, for Wright compelled the concession of a corner-kick, from which Taylor equalized-thus emphasizing the fine work of the middlemen as this occurred 22 minutes after crossing over, the game was left in a most open state. The Wanderers found Scott in his happiest humour, and not till seven minutes from the finish was he again beaten, and then White with a glorious dribble circumvented both Hill and Crelley and won the match with a superb shot which struck the bar and bounded inwards. The goal acted like magic on the Wanderers, and Scott protected his charge again and again in final climax when he was simply bombarded with shots by White and Shepherd. For the nonce the Wanderers were overpowering Everton, but they raised the siege and were attacking vigorously when the game ceased.
BOLTON'S WAVERING DEFENCE.
This bare outline of the course of events will show that Bolton Wanderers had a terrible tussle to keep their adversaries at bay, and obtain that long looked for winning goal. Considering all the circumstances this was very fine League game, played on the whole in admirable temper and at a cracking pace, remembering the surface, for every boot required lifting. Possibly Bolton Wanderers were not at their best. The defence was faulty, and the only men I should inclined to praise were Baverstock and Clifford, who showed good judgment and much skill. Davies lacked anticipation of where danger was coming from, and therefore appeared awkward, while Ostick had not the cleanness and quickness that used to characterize him. Neither of the wing half backs played with much acumen, and Robertson appealed to me as slow to the ball and slow on it.
WALTER WHITE THE WONDER.
The home forwards were decidedly smart. "Wattie" White has one fault; he is rather short-tempered. In every other respect he is an artist, and, I should say, the supreme artist in the team, for his command of the ball is admirable, his judgment in drawing the defence and passing unrivalled, and his shooting fatal. I hear people rush into raptures about various members of the Bolton team, but the Hurlford lad is by nature strong and forcible, and by practice a cunning craftsman. I enjoyed the play of Stokes, who discarded all attempts at dribbles, and time after time he centred with unerring accuracy and discretion. There is the making of the best centre in England in Albert Shepherd, though he wants coaching by a man who knows the part of a pivot from A to Z. At present Shepherd is not a distributor or a creator of openings, but a youth of wondrous strength, and blessed with enviable speed.  He has a happy knack of hooking the ball away from backs, and bustling between them. Once he has arrived can shoot like a King’s prizeman. But he is lacking in resource, and as the game advanced he too often lost control of the ball, which enabled a back to step in and take it from his toe? Some of his single sprints for goal were thrilling. He is a most useful if unpolished player, and just the kind of dasher to turn the course of any match.
HUGH BOLTON TO THE FORE.
The Everton forwards acquitted themselves well as a body, despite the fact that Wright in the centre was slow, often offside, and generally eclipsed.  Donnachie and Cooke showed some promise, but the right wing, Bolton and Birnie, were really excellent. The great success was Hugh Bolton, who proved capital inside right.  He never ceased to perseveres, and his dribbling and passing were alike excellent.  In the first half he seemed loth to part with the ball, but afterwards he gave Birnie numerous openings, though he never changed the point of attack with a swinging drive to the left.  It is well to vary one’s game, but I have hope of Bolton making a fine player, especially as he appeared clever neat goal. 
STERLING MIDDLEMEN.
The Everton half-backs were all exceptionally able, though Taylor is apt to disregard the rules.  Makepeace was the outstanding figure in the line.  Percy Hill is a young back of parts.  At present a little amateurish, he is nevertheless fairly reliable.  Scott in goal stopped 18 shots, and his exhibition gained him generous applause.  The Irish international is particularly safe and smart in the fielding of low swift drives.  If he is as capable with high shots he must be a great custodian.  Scott can deliver a one-handed punch worthy of a first-class heavy-weigh boxer.  I saw him do it.  Bolton Wanderers;- Davies; Baverstock, Ostick; Robertson, Clifford, Boyd; Stokes, Marsh, Shepherd, White and McEwan.  Everton; Scott; Hill, Crelley; Booth, Taylor, Makepeace; Birnie, Bolton, Wright, Cooke, and Donnachie.  Referee; Mr. R.T. Johns, Hanley. 

EVERTON RESERVES 0 BOLTON WANDERERS 2
March 5 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One. (Game 28)
Saturday was a black day for Everton, for while the seniors were beaten at Bolton, the Trotters second string was beating the Reserves. Everton were however, considerably handicapped owing to the call made upon the regular to take part in the League match. A further trial was given to Bowser, at centre forward, while places were found for new players in Tomlin and Bannister. The new men did very little, however, and as a result the Everton forwards play was very poor. Only McLaughlin (whose appearances have been all too few of late) did anything worthy of mention, and the forward line below bar a great deal of work was thrown upon the defence. Bolton scored once in each half, and won by two goals to nil. The first point was luckily obtained, a shot from Napier turning off Hannan into the net out of Collins reach, but on the play the visitors were the better side, and deserved their success. Everton presented a stout defence. Collins, Wildman, and Hannan doing capital service, while Black at half back was always prominent. There was an entire absence of combination amongst the forwards, and Bowser displayed a great leniency to stick to the ball until dispossessed. Bolton have a capable side, some of the players showing very promising work. Everton: - Collins, goal, Wildman, and Hannon, backs Black, Chadwick, and Donaldson half-backs, Tomlin, McLoughlin, Bowser, Bannister, and Butler, forwards.

EVERTON'S STERN STRUGGLE
Athletic News - Monday 12 March 1906
By Junius
For the second year in succession Everton have qualified for the semi-final of the Association Cup, and they certainly deserve to win the trophy. They have twice been in the Final, and last season when they were beaten at the second attempt in the penultimate round, I certainly thought that they would have gone clean through. If they do win the Cup this year it will be a great performance, for they have experienced sufficient ill-fortune to gaunt the courage of most clubs. They have been asked by the League to account for their representation at Bolton, and to those who know the condition in which I their regular players were on that date, there seems something incongruous about the action of the Management Committee. The team to oppose Sheffield Wednesday was not chosen until Friday evening, and at the last moment they had to find a substitute for Crelley, who appears to be in very poor health this winter. If they can steer clear of further injuries, I should not be surprised to find Everton not only in the Final, but winners outright, for they are likely to be seen at their best during the remaining stages of the season. But what if they meet their rivals from Anfield in the deciding round? This would cause some commotion in Liverpool.

GREAT GAME AT GOODISON
Athletic News - Monday 12 March 1906
By Junius
The tie between Everton and Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park was anticipated with mingled feelings in Liverpool, for the exact constitution of the Everton eleven was a source of much speculation.  So well have the Wednesday team been playing recently that it was admitted on all sides that even at full strength and with every man thoroughly sound Everton would have a tough task on hand. Consequently much satisfaction was evinced when it became known that the home side would be practically at full strength and the injured players able to resume, for such a consummation was at one time quits outside the range of possibility. As events turned out, the only regular member of the team unable to participate in the contest was Crelley, who up to the last moment had been considered certain starter, and the brothers Balmer were, therefore, Introduced at fullback, the younger scion of the family resuming after an absence of two months. As Sheffield were represented by their customary eleven, the rivals practically faced each other on even terms, which was certainly gratifying to all concerned. There was much curiosity felt as to the manner the Everton players would withstand such a severe task, but they quickly allayed any feelings of apprehension by the vivacious manner in which they entered into the fray.
A SENSATIONAL START
Five minutes only had elapsed before Everton were in possession of a winning lead. They were evidently imbued with the correct idea of getting their blow in first, and, not satisfied with one, they credited themselves with a couple of goals ere Sheffield had found time to gain an acquaintance with the game. Hardman was the initiator of both points, while Sharp and Taylor respectively applied the finishing touches. The extreme left winger was in his most scintillating mood, and he flashed round Layton with the greatest ease, finishing his sprint by whipping across such judiciously-aimed centres that scoring goals became almost certainty. These dual successes were sufficient to daunt the most experienced Cup-fighters, but the Wednesday team to their credit be it said, buckled to their now doubly difficult task, and proceeded to reduce the adverse margin against them.  They were awarded a penalty kick for an alleged offence of handling by “Bobby” Balmer in dealing with a centre by Davis, but the latter, who took the kick, shot straight at Scott, who diverted the course of the ball.  Wilson plied his left wing most assiduously, and at this stage the Sheffielders showed no signs of giving up the ghost. 
HARDMAN’S BRILLIANCE
They met with a stubborn resistance, however, in the Everton rear division, and Everton had better opportunities than the Owlerton brigade. Hardman was the shining light in the Everton attacking line, and his centres invariably found the visitors’ defence in a tangle. From one of these Sharp missed by inches, and at the juncture Everton were justifying their lead. Then came the first stroke of luck to Wednesday. Simpson received a long pass from the centre of the field, and, racing down, he sent in a high, dropping shot which Scott threw away, but only slightly. Wilson and the elder Balmer got mixed up, and the ball came once more to Simpson, off whom it rebounded into the net. Another movement by the Sheffield left wing almost resulted disastrously for the home team, but, Wilson headed over, after Simpson had centred perfectly. Just before the Interval Everton took matters into their own hands again, and, as usual, Hardman led the way. Down the touch-line he flashed, drove across the goal-mouth, where, after a short tussle, Bolton obtained possession, and with the utmost nonchalance, the inside-right slowly turned the ball, exactly where Lyall couldn’t reach, into the net. This was a decidedly pretty goal, simple looking, but judged most accurately. Still another onslaught by the irrepressible Hardman ensued, and this time Sharp received the centre, but tipped back to Booth, who drove strongly, and though Lyall stopped the shot, the ball twisted out of his upstretched hands into the netting. Thus Everton led by 4 goals 1, after forty-five minutes.
STUBBORN SHEFFIELDERS
The Wednesday players were thus again faced by a most difficult task, but they showed no diminution of energy, and in the second half they were slightly the better team.  Favoured with the breeze, they began to force the play, and after twelve minutes Bartlett secured the ball, and, working his way deftly past three or four opponents, he got within the twelve yards line, and sent in a shot which beat Scott all the way, this being one of the best goals of the match.  A moment later Stewart was nearly through, and realizing the fact that Sheffield intended making a desperate fight, the spectators became more keenly interested than ever.  This feeling was intensified when a second penalty was awarded the Yorkshiremen.  Davis got cleverly away, and centred in front of goal, where W. Balmer and Stewart were endeavoring to reach the leather.  The former was adjudged guilty of a back charge, and Davis made amends for his previous failure by converting the kick.  After this the play waxed more furiously than ever, and the home team appeared to me to be showing signs of relaxing their efforts.  On the other hand, the visitors exerted every ounce of energy, and one could not but sympathize with them in their valiant effort to avert defeat.  This was denied them, and as a matter of fact, in the last five minutes, Everton regained their composure and were pressing heavily when the final whistle blew.
VALOUR CONTEST
I have not witnessed this season a more determined and hardly-fought game than this Cup-tie.  Everton deserved to win if only for the brilliant manner in which they took up their chances, but on the other hand it was impossible not to admire the bull-dog pertinacity of the Wednesday team, who left the field with the knowledge that though beaten, they had fought nobly.  Nevertheless, there were weaknesses in there side which led to their ultimate downfall, and their full-backs cannot be complimented upon their display prior to the interval.  They were altogether too slow for the sprightly Everton forwards, who were nippy on the ball, and kept the defence fully extended by the manner in which they sent the leather from one wing: to the other. Later the game they were seen to better advantage, for the fearfully heavy going told its tale upon the light weights of the home side, and the more sturdily built Sheffield defenders were not so severely harassed during the latter half of the struggle. The inefficiency of the earlier ball could, however, never be obliterated, and taking the goals as they came, including that which Lyall should have saved, and the failure of Davis to register one from his first penalty kick, there still remains the solitary convincing fact that Everton totaled four to their opponents’ three. On the general nature of the play, this was an accurate reflex, and Everton deservedly qualified for the penultimate round of tie ties.
EVERTONIANS EXCELLENCIES.
With the exception of Young IN the centre, their forwards were in splendid form. As already stated, Hardman was without a superior on the field, his sparkling runs and beautifully-judged centres being the feature of a tremendously exciting match. Settle and Bolton were repeatedly in evidence with clever footwork, and they furnished their partners with ample means of showing their paces. The half-backs were likewise in rare trim. Makepeace being especially effective, and the Sheffield right was often reduced to state of helplessness by his fine tackling. Taylor worked as he always does, and his goal was splendidly obtained, while Booth was a sore stumbling block to Stewart, who looked upon in Liverpool as the most skillful of the Sheffield forwards. Further behind, the brothers Balmer kicked and tackled in their best style, while Scott kept goal valiantly, and formed the last line an exceedingly capable defence.
SHEFFIELD'S SKILL AND PERSISTENCY.
I have already intimated the source of Sheffield's weakness, and more need not be said. After the change of ends, better work was witnessed, but it was impossible to recover from the earlier failures. Lyall kept goal well, despite the fact that he allowed one shot to past him which he ought to have cleared. In the intermediate line Bartlett was the outstanding figure, his aggressive work being particularly noticeable, and the goal he scored was the result of an excellent individual effort. Crawshaw was responsible for much sound defensive play, and he was always on the alert to assist his backs by keeping a watchful eye Sharp. Ruddlesdin got through a vast amount of useful plodding, and this branch of the team could scarcely have been improved upon. Simpson, on the extreme left, was the pick the forwards, thus forming a striking coincidence with that of Everton. Wilson fed his wings very capably, and the efforts of Chapman and Stewart were checked with difficulty. One quality the forwards possess is worthy of emulation: they never ceased their endeavours till the final whistle blew, and they went through the heavy going with a vigour that showed they were well-trained for such an exacting struggle. Everton.—Scott; (W); Balmer (W.), Balmer (R.); Booth, Taylor, Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton. Young, Settle, and H. P. Hardman. Sheffield Wednesday—Lyall; Layton, Burton; Ruddlesdin,  Crawshaw, Bartlett; Davis, Chapman, Wilson, Stewart, and Simpson. Referee;  F.H.  Dennis, Middleborough.

EVERTON 4 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 3 (Fa Cup Game 55)
March 12, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
FA Cup Fourth Round.
EVERTON IN THE SEMI-FINALS
EXCITING GAME AT GOODISON-PARK.
DAVIES PENALTY MISSED
Again have Everton qualified for the semi-final round of the English Cup competition. They have done more than once but have never yet lifted the trophy, which is so insignificant, but which means so much. After the shadow of a team which represented the club the previous week at Burnden park there were all sorts of gloomy foreboding as to the outcome of Sheffield Wednesday's visit to Goodison-park in the fourth round of the cup. There were views that the Blades would have an easy victory, and evidently this was the feeling which prevailed in Sheffield, for the good people of the town invaded the city in their thousands-the estimate was at least 6,000-and apart from enjoying the fresh breeze of the Mersey they turned up in full force at the Goodison-road ground. And they did make their presence felt. They did not forget to cheer their favourites, and certainly after a bad beginning they had good cause for jubilation, for no team could have played a more plucky unhill game than did the Wednesday representatives. To be down four goals to one at half-time, and in the end to give their opponents a rare fight and to only lose by the odd goal in seven is an achievement of which any team playing away from home may well congratulate themselves.
A REPRESENTATIVE EVERTON TEAM.
It was quite a relief to the vast majority of the crowd- the attendance by the way was at least 30,000 and the receipts £1,000- when the Everton players made their appearance on the field, and it was seen that all the old hands had sufficiently recovered to be able to assume their customary positions. That they were in good form too was early evident. Did they not score a couple of goals in five minutes from the start. And was not this enough to give the victory in a cup-tie encounter to any team? Certainly it placed the Everton supporters on quite good terms with themselves. It was little Hardman who was really responsible for both the goals, for it was following capital centres of his that Sharp and then Taylor banged the ball into the net without giving Lyall the ghost of a chance of saving his charge. Naturally with such engagement Everton gave of their best, and were undoubtedly the superior side. Young Balmer was penalised for handling within the penalty area, and great was the disappointment of the Sheffield enthusiasts when Scott brilliantly saved Davies Penalty kick . still the Blades struck to their work with the utmost determination, and it was no more than they deserved when Simpson rushed the ball past Scott. But Everton too were not content to let matters rest with a lead of two goals to one, and with nearly ten minutes to go before the interval Bolton added a third goal after some thrilling exchanges following a corner. This was not all, for less than a minute before the whistle blew for the change of ends Lyall fumbled a long shot from Booth, and Everton had the commanding lead of four goals to one.
WEDNESDAY'S PLUCKY FIGHT.
If Everton had gathered in the plums during the first half there was a different tale to be told about the later stages of the game. The Evertonians failed altogether to reproduce their brilliant form of the opening half, and as a matter of fact Sheffield Wednesday had as much of the play as had previously fallen to Everton's lot. The important difference was that they were only able to add a couple of goals to their score. Barlett, who was one of the most conspicuous halves on the field, was responsible for their second goal, while the third accrued from a penalty kick given against Taylor. Davis on this occasion making no mistake with his shot. With only another goal to ensure a replay at Owlerton-park the Blades played for all they were worthy, and the Everton defence being exceedingly shaky, they almost succeeded in their efforts. Towards the end, however, Everton reasserted themselves, and apart from an obvious trip on Young which ought to have brought a penalty kick, the Wednesday goal escaped downfall in the last minutes of the game in wonderful fashion. Thus an exciting game, in which the interest was maintained to the finish, resulted in Everton's entry into the semi final by four goals to three.
THE PLAYERS.
There was a wide disparity between Everton's display in the two halves of the game. In the earlier portion they were far and away the better team, but later they failed altogether to hold the never say die representatives of the Wednesday club. In fact it was very lucky for them that their quartette of goals had been placed on the slate, and also that Davis missed the first of the two penalty kicks. Otherwise there might easily have been a visit to Owerton next Wednesday. Still all's well that ends well. Everton on the whole were the better team, although Sheffield Wednesday are entitled to every congratulation upon their meritorious efforts in playing up so strongly against great odds. Scott was safer in goal than Lyall, and the brothers Balmer were more reliable than Layton, and Burton. There was little to choose between the Everton half-backs, but unquestionably the most conspicuous forward on the field was Hardman, who had not a little to do with his side's victory. Young showed some improvement on recent displays, and with Sharp taking advantage of any openings which came his way, the inside men, Bolton and Settle, rendered valuable assistance. On the Sheffield side Simpson was probably the pick of the vanguard.

STALYBRIDGE ROVERS 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
March 12, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 29)
Everton fulfilled their return fixture at Stylebridge Rovers. The initial game had resulted in favour of Everton by three clear goals, and on Saturday they ran their opponents to a draw each side getting a goal. It was by no means a good game. Neither side drawing much method in their attack, but the visitors was the cleverer side, and wore quite worthy of a point. further changes had been made in the forwards line, but this brought very little improvement in the way of the front rank. Still, the side improved upon their previous week's performance, and better display may be looked for. All the scoring was done in the second half. Ingdon getting though for the Rovers a thin a mantle of changing ends, and Butler making the score level. The ground was on the heavy side and all though the defenders held the upper hand.

EVERTON’S EXCELLENT PROGRESS
Athletic News - Monday 19 March 1906
By Junius
By their success at Blackburn, Everton simply emphasized the regaining of their form, and the team are beginning to feel that confidence which is produced by a series of victories.  That their display against Sheffield Wednesday was not a mere flash in the pan has been demonstrated by their recent league triumph, for they had not won a match away since December 2 prior to this. They seem unable to steer clear of injuries, and the grueling received in the Cup-tie last week accounted for the absence of three of that eleven at Blackburn.  A busy week is in store for them, for on Wednesday the postponed League fixture with Woolwich Arsenal will be played at Goodison Park, and the time of kick-off has been made five o'clock. Seeing that the two clubs are semi-finalists, this match should prove a great attraction, for it might prove a rehearsal for the Final Tie at the Palace! Everton have only three League games to play away from home, and it is highly probable that they will, even after their unfortunate season, finish in a prominent position. There is no mention of special training away from Liverpool by either of our two clubs, and I am pleased to see that they have arrived at such a sensible course.
EVERTON'S RESERVES BEATEN
A poor game was witnessed at Goodison Park between Everton reserves and Darwen, the visitors winning by two goals to one.  Crook scored a couple of goals for Darwen before the interval, while Grundy added one for Everton.  Nothing was registered during the second period, and as a matter of fact-McLaughlin strove hard to change the fortunes of his side, but this proved fruitless.  Depledge, the new custodian, was of little use and the half-backs were seldom in evidence.  At one time there seemed a chance of Everton securing first place in the Lancashire Combination, but this possibility has now utterly vanished.  

EVERTON EXCEL AT EWOOD.
Athletic News - Monday 19 March 1906
BY Quiz
The game between the Rovers and Everton at Blackburn must rank as one of the tamest and feeblest which the two have contested at Ewood Park. There were changes in both teams, a new Rover being seen inside left in Burton, an amateur from Grangetown.
FIRST BLOOD TO THE "BLUES"
The Rovers opened strongly, but not many minutes had elapsed before they began to show their weakness in front of goal. Early on Whittaker managed to outwit Crelley, and, centring at the right moment, Burton had a fine opportunity of scoring his first goal in League football. But he trapped the ball badly, and, moreover, did not use the greatest expedition, with the result that Balmer nipped in. Bowman was working for goal when he brought down Crelley, and from the free kick Crompton sent the ball at terrific speed against the post. Robertson secured the leather from the rebound, and the hopes of the home spectators were raised, but in vain, for he put tamely wide. And thus chance number two went begging. But at length we had a sample of how the thing should be done. Whittaker middled with judgment and accuracy, and Bowman without hesitancy tried his luck with a lightning shot. Scott was on the alert, and by a superhuman effort got his hand to the ball at the base of the left post and succeeded in saving the situation at the expense of a corner. The Everton forwards had been unable to get going, but now they managed to elude the home half-backs, who were playing a hard game. There was a warm tussle in the vicinity of Evans, who doubtless heaved a sigh of relief when Young ended the tension by heading high over the bar. Everton's next visit to the Rovers’ quarters came at the end of twenty-five minutes’ play, and they met with success, for Sharp, having dropped the leather well in front. Young was quick enough to seize on to it first, and, with a low, quick shot well out of the reach Evans, he scored. There was not long to wait before the Rovers got on terms. During a scrimmage in the Everton quarters Robertson broke through and driving hard and straight the ball caught Scott fair and square on the chest. He made a desperate attempt to clasp it, but he failed and it rolled into the net. And so matters stood at half time.
HAROLD HARDMAN AGAIN TO THE FORE
Hardly had the second half got property under weigh than Cowell and Bolton collided.  The latter quickly recovered, but the little Rover had to be carried off the field. It looked as if for the third home match in succession the Rovers would have to finish with ten men, but ten minutes later Cowell reappeared apparently fully restored. The story of the rest of the game soon told. It consisted for the most part in the Rovers making many attacks, but failing to propel the ball between the posts. Occasionally first Sharp and then Hardman initiated incursions, but Crompton and Cowell were equal to all demands. That is, except in one particular instance, when Hardman, eluding Smith, broke away at rare pace. Crompton essayed to stay his progress, but the Evertonian centred and Bolton, Iying In readiness, steered the ball into the net some ten minutes from the end. There was sufficient time for the Rovers to have recovered themselves and perhaps to have won had the forwards been playing a strong game, but their feebleness in front goal made this impossible, and in the end they had to accept yet another reverse on their own ground.
WHERE THE ROVERS FAILED
Everton may be considered somewhat fortunate. They had to keep on the defensive much more than their opponents, but on the other hand they were wise enough to make good use of their chances, and that what the Rovers could not do. And after all, it is the scoring which wins matches. Moral victories as represented by a team having more of the attack than their opponents and yet losing are poor consolation. The Rovers’ defence was not to blame. Evans and his backs performed exceedingly well, and the half-backs, too, filled their parts creditably. The forwards alone were responsible for the non-success of the team. They were terribly weak in from of goal, not only in shooting, but in smartness, decision, and intelligence. Like the Rovers, Everton were best represented by their defence. Scott had very little to do. Balmer and Crelley covering him well. Makepeace was particularly conspicuous among the half , and forward Hardman, Young, and Bolton were the best of a very moderate line. Blackburn Rovers; Evans; Crompton, Cowell; Smith, Wolstenholmes, Bradshaw; Whittaker, Robertson, Bowman, Burton and Chadwick.  Everton; Scott; Balmer (W.), Crelley; Black, Taylor, Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Cooke, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee T. Kirkham, Burslem. 

BLACKBURN ROVERS 1 EVERTON 2
March 19, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
EVERTON LUCKY.
OUTPLAYED, BUT SUCCESSFUL.
If ever a team was lucky in acquiring both points this certainly was the case with Everton on Saturday. On the face of it a victory at Ewood park of two goals to one looks capital performance, but no one who witnessed the game could maintain that the result in any way reflected the run of the play. For the greater part of the game the Rovers were simply all over the Evertonians and had chances galore to score. That they did no tarail themselves of the opportunities was of course their own fault. On the other hand, Everton did turn two chances to good account, and the consequence was that, although outplayed they were returned the victors of a match in which the quality of the football rarely sustained a high standard. It was an exceedingly lucky win, and enthusiasts of the club may well regard this as a happy omen in connection with the great cup semi-final, which is rapidly approaching.
CHANCES. LOST.
Not until the team arrived in Birmingham was the constitution on the Everton from line definitely settled. It was known that R.Balmer and Booth would be a absentee, but there was a doubt as to whether Settle would be able to fill his customary position. Eventably, in view of his injured shoulder, it was decided to afford him a rest, and to give another trial to Cooke, the Seacombe recruit. In delightful weather and on splendid turf one expected from much old rivals as Everton and the Rovers a fine exhibition of football. Probably the crosswind had not a little to do with the lack of methods observable, but the game had not progressed long before it was evident that Everton were not in their Sheffield Wednesday Cup fighting form. Indeed for a long time their forwards could make no headway at all, and when with a surprise shot Cooke opening the scoring, the spectators could hardly tumble to the situation that the home side were a goal down. It was not very long before the interval and the Rovers equalised, and certainly on the play they got no more than their deserved. The second half was practically a replica of the first. The Rovers enjoyed bulk of the attack, but failed masterably in front of goal, which from a breakaway on the part of Hardman. Hardman. Bolton enabled Everton to obtain the victory in a match, which proved that after all the better side does not always win.
THE PLAYERS.
As will be gathered from the foregning remarks, the game was by no means of a brilliant order; yet at times there was some splendid individual work, with was really over looked in consequence of glaring ineffectiveness in front of goal. Sharp was quite overshadowed by Cowell, and the best forwards on the Everton side were Hardman and Bolton. Young was in a hesitating mood and on one occasion he mulled a fine opening, but he has this satisfaction that he was not the only culprit in this respect. Makepeace was the shinning light among the halves, and considering the pressure, to which they were subjected, it was a feature in the caps of Scott, Balmer and Crelly that only one goal fell to the lot of Rovers. The opposing forwards, it is true did not improve obvious chance but that is their own luck out. After all, considering the number of injured players on Everton's list this season, it is true they had some luck. Teams: - Blacburn Rovers: - Robertson, goal, Crompton, and Cowell, backs Wolstenholmes Berchall, Chadwick, Whittaker, Robertson, Davis and Bowman forwards. Everton: - Scott goals, W.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Black, Taylor (Captain), and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp, Bolton, Young, Cook, and Hardman forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 DARWEN 2
March 19 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 30)
Everton who have not won a match since January 20, sustained another reverse at Goodison-park on Saturday. When Darwen beat them by the odd goal of three. Everton were not at full strength, and gave trials to two new players, a goalkeeper and a half-back, but the great weakness was among the forwards. Darwen are a well-balanced side, and are making a bold fight for championship honour, but Everton should have held their own. During the first half Everton made many mistakes, and but for weakness near goal they would have crossed over on level terms. Darwen, on the other hand, were always dangerous near goal, and it was only sound back play on the part of Hill that kept out the East Lancashire men. However, Crook scored after Depledge, the Everton goalkeeper, had failed to fist away from Booth's centre, and later the same player put on another goal. Everton afterwards improved somewhat, and shortly before the interval Grundy reduced the visitors lead. In the second half Darwen had the best of the earlier stages, but Hill kicked and tackled finely. He also made the two best attempts at scoring during this half. Lill saving in fine style. Everton tried hard to get level in the closing stages, but the effort came too late, and the visitors won as stated. Everton lost the game through their weakness close at goal for of the forwards only McNaugton and Grundy did themselves justice. Chadwick was the best of the halves. Frith, a new comer being rather slow. Hill gave a splendid display at full back, while Depledge showed promising form. Darwen had a sound defence, and Crook and Cate, on the right wing were clever forwards. Everton: - Deledge, goal, Hill, and Wright, backs, Frith, Chadwick, and Donaldson half-backs, Birnie, Butler, Bannister, Bowser, and Grundy forwards .

EVERTON 0 WOOLWICH ARSENAL 1
March 22 1906. The Liverpool Courier
A DISAPPOINTING GAME.
The re-arranged League fixture was played at Goodison-park yesterday in bright, though rather Chilly weather. The fact that the visitors are one of the four fortunate teams in the semi-final of the English Cup rendered their presence additionally attractive, and the gate was helped by the kick off being fixed for five o'clock Sharp, owing to the death of a relative, was an absentee from the Everton team, and on the Arsenal side there were several changes, Fitchie and Sands being unable to get away from business. The teams were: - Everton: - Scott, goal, Hill and R.Balmer backs, Booth (Captain) Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Donnachie, Cooke, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Woolwich Arsenal: - Ashcroft, goal, Gray, and Cross, backs, Bigden, Theobald, and McEachrane, half-backs, Garbutt, Coleman Freeman, Scatterwaite, and Neave, forwards. Referee J.T.Howcroft.
Everton winning the toss, had the advantage of the wind. Freeman set the ball in motion, and the Arsenal left got away, but the ball rolled harmlessly behind. From the goal kick Everton came away and threatened danger, a promising move by Settle and Hardman being spoiled by the wind. Young cleverly outwitted Cross and put to Hardman, who, however, failed to reach the ball in time. Settle lost ground by needlessly fouling when well placed. Prior to the free kick a stoppage of a few moments took place while the trainer attended to Booth, and Scatterwaite. The Everton halves were holding the Arsenal forwards splendidly, but from a breakaway Neave centred and Garbutt nearly scored. So far the play had not reached a high standard, Everton with the wind helping them being unable to make any impression on the visitors defence. Young, Bolton, and Donnachie, showed some pretty passing, but when close on goal Donnachie was brought up for fouling Cross. The play was mostly about the half-way line, with Everton making spasmodic attempts at goal. Garbutt got away, and from his centre Coleman tested Scott with a stiff ground shot. Coming away Young put in a terrific drive, which missed by inches only. Hill was applauded for cleverly robbing Freeman, but the Arsenal coming along, Garbutt was allowed to score a somewhat simple goal. This success acted as a tonic to the Arsenal, who commenced to press strongly Scatterwaite and Neave always being dangerous. Settle at one time falling back alone saved the citadel. Arsenal continued to attack strongly, with the result that the Everton defence was scarcely taxed. There was certainly move method about the work of the Gunners than of their opponents, but eventually from smart tactics on the left Cooke helped in just the wrong side of the post. This was the prelude to further pressure by the Blues when display, however, did not come up to expectations. Hardman tried to go through on his own, but was bundled over unceremoniously, and the ball going to Settle, that player sent wide, a performance, which he repeated a few moments later. At the other end after a bad miskick by Taylor, Coleman put in a terrific shot which, fortunately for Everton, was lacking in direction. Neave was injured and had to be attended to by the trainer at the side of the field. Kicking out by the Arsenal backs did not meet with the approval of the crowd, and so far the quality of the football had not attainted a high standard. Ashcroft fisted away from Young, and the Arsenal custodian next had to deal with a long shot from R.Balmer. Everton were now attacking with a little more life, but their efforts in front of goal might easily have been improved upon. Neave reappeared and although Everton had the better of the argument they could not secure the equalising goal. Settle was pulled up for offside to the disastrous of the spectators, and following a corner, Booth banged the ball against an Arsenal defender with tremendous force. Miskicks were frequent on both sides, and combination in the respective forward lines was at a discount. Hardman raced away in great style, and cleverly outwitting Gray got the ball to Young, who with no one to beat missed the ball altogether. The chance was certainly one of a lifetime, and would be especially galling to Hardman, who, had he not been so unselfish, might possibly have scored himself. Half-time Everton nil, Woolwich Arsenal 1.

On resuming, in the presence of some 12,000 spectators, Everton were the first to make headway, and Ashcroft was called upon to negotiate a fine shot from Settle. Arsenal gained a corner through the instrumentally of Garbutt. but the ball from the corner flag was placed behind. Still the Arsenal right wing indulged in some pretty work, and forced the Everton defenders plenty to do to save their lines. Young at last got in a capital shot, which Ashcroft as cleverly diverted, and then the game was stopped for a few movements on account of Donnachie and Cooke coming into collision. Young apart from the one shot, had been distinctly disappointing. Coleman shot and Scott fisted out. Then Everton came along in nice style, but Donnachie's centre was cleared. Hardman when travelling up the wing was given offside a decision, which did not meet with the approval of the crowd. Coleman put in a stinger, which Scott only partially saved at his first attempt, but which he eventually cleared. Young, after some clever dribbling, again spoiled his goal, work by weak shooting. The Arsenal forwards were always dangerous when in possession and gave the Everton defence many anxious moments. For once in a way the Everton half-backs were not at their best, even Makepeace finding Garbutt and Coleman a rare handful. Loose play, by Balmer nearly let in Freeman, whose final shot, however, went wide. A dash by Settle and Young was spoiled by the wind. At no time was the game a good one, the combination of both sides being faulty. Young got the ball beautifully over and Settle just topped the crossbar with a good shot. The Gunners gained a corner, which was well placed, and in the front of goal, Makepeace was slightly injured. Everton also had a corner, but their forwards scarcely ever looked like scoring. Each goal was attacked in turn, and a disappointing game ended in a victory for the Woolwich, who got no more than their deserve. Final; Everton nil Woolwich Arsenal 1.

EVERTON’S EMENDATION
Athletic News - Monday 26 March 1906
By Junius
After their vacillating exhibition against Woolwich on the previous Wednesday, Everton were certainly not favourites for League encounter with Sunderland, but there is no knowing what to expect from the Goodison team at present. They may please or dissatisfy without any warning, and to attempt to prognosticate where they are concerned is to court disaster. It is useless to expect Everton to turn out the same team twice in succession and there five changes in the side which tackled Sunderland from that which opposed Woolwich Arsenal.  The alterations were all towards efficiency, and the eleven which represented Everton won comfortably, and at the same time broke a somewhat monotonous record or reverses.  The three previous visitors of Sunderland had each ended in victories for the Wearsiders, in which Everton had not gained a solitary goal, so that the latter’s success in Saturday’s encounter by 3 goals to 1 was doubly welcome. In fact, Everton showed something like their real form in this match, and no doubt much of this improvement was due to the capital work displayed by Young at centre forward. This position been Everton's weakness throughout the present campaign, and could the forward leader maintain the form shown against Sunderland in subsequent matches, Everton would quickly mount upwards in the results table. But Everton are a curious team just now.
NAISBY HELPLESS
They commenced IN dashing style against the Wearsiders, and scarcely ten minutes had elapsed ere a lovely pass from Abbott to Settle enabled the latter to transfer to Young, and the centre placed beautifully past Naisby, who was helpless. Sunderland strove strenuously after this reverse, and Scott was frequently tested with difficult shots, but he proved equal to every emergency. Balmer was injured during a tussle, and retired for ten minutes, and the visitors pressed, what time Everton were content to adopt the one back game. The play waxed furiously, and both goals were endangered, but eventually, after a brilliant movement on the visitors' left wing, Scott saved from Bridgett, and Shaw, dashing in, equalized. From now to the interval Sunderland had the better of the exchanges, and only sterling custodianship by Scott prevented them from gaining the lead. The clearance at full from Gemmell was splendidly achieved, but the teams faced each other at the interval on equal terms as regards scoring.
WEARSIDERS BEATEN.
During the remaining portion of the contest Everton claimed a distinct advantage, for they were aided by a powerful breeze, and they confined play in their opponents’ quarters. Sharp was quickly in evidence, and after one of his centres had gone astray another came across to Abbott, who rushed in and gave Naisby no chance with his final drive. From this point onward the Wearsiders were a beaten team. They never seemed like wresting the advantage from the home players, and when Young converted a corner kick, well placed by Donnachie, the Issue was absolutely beyond doubt. From this stage Everton were easily the superior side, and they came near to increasing their lead. Some sterling defensive work by Naisby and Watson averted further reverses, and though Everton were pressing hotly during the last quarter of an hour, they could not again baffle the attentions of their rival defenders. They thus avenged the defeat sustained at Roker on November 18, and rehabilitated themselves in the eyes of their supporters.
A SINGULAR SIDE
Truly Everton are a singular team. Three days prior to this match with Sunderland, they shaped like a back number, and their performance against Woolwich undoubtedly affected the attendance. The Wearslders are always an attractive draw in Liverpool, yet I should say there was one of the smallest gates of the season at Goodison to welcome them on their recent visit. Everton’s defence has seldom been found wanting throughout the winter, and everything has depended upon the form shown by the forwards. In this match Young found time to exhibit of his undoubted capabilities, and this naturally excited a beneficial Influence along the whole front rank. His first goal was the result of superb footwork between him, Settle, and Abbott and though he was far from being a complete success, yet his display was so much in advance of what has been witnessed from him recently that it quite revived the drooping spirits of the club’s following. Hardman was a conspicuous absentee but he was not missed, for Donnachie made a most able substitute, and gave promise of possessing more than average ability. I was particularly impressed by the manner in which continually lobbed the ball in front of goal, and he tumbled to Settle as an inside partner without the least hesitation. The left wing was truly very able.
THE RIGHT SHARP
On the right Bolton and Sharp constituted a dangerous pair, and the latter is one of the most skillful wingers in finishing his sprints along touch that I have seen this season. The two goals scored in the second half were chiefly due to the effective manner In which he sent the ball across the goalmouth, though hardly pressed by the Sunderland backs, and the County cricketer makes the Everton attack fifty per cent, more efficient when he is included in the team. Bolton gave a capital exhibition and the right wing couple were responsible for some lovely footwork. In the rear division Abbott was very prominent and his long rest seems to have acted as a tonic for was decidedly the most successful performer amongst the half-backs. Taylor likewise gave a terrier like display and he was always intervening just when the hopes of the Sunderland forwards were at their highest pitch. Booth played better than against Woolwich, but he is far removed from the half back of last season's form. At full back Crelley gave a grand display, his tackling and kicking being especially clever, and W. Balmer, despite the knock on the leg which caused his temporary retirement, is still powerful factor in Everton’s most capable defence. Scott kept a capital goal, and his work throughout the season has been most consistently and skillfully accomplished.
THE SMART SHAW
Sunderland were seen best in the first half, when their forwards were vigorous and clever and their defence sound and alert. Shaw is a decidedly smart centre-forward, and he gave his wings ample opportunities of making head way, but after the change of ends this faculty was not often in evidence. I could not understand the negligence displayed in attending to the left wing, for Gemmell and Bridgett were dangerous whenever they gained possession, yet in the second half they were rarely afforded the opportunity of making headway. The extreme left winger was the best of the forwards, and his centres were always a source of danger to the Everton defence.  The half-backs were disappointing, for, though they started well, they failed to maintain their earlier excellence.  Prior to the interval they seemed like proving a stumbling block to Everton’s advances, but they fell away altogether in the closing stages.  At full-back Watson was distinctly the better player, some of his deft touches in beating Sharp being beautifully executed and fairer defence could not be wished for than he gave. Rhodes kicked well, though not so reliable as his partner under pressure, whilst Naisby showed good form in goal, and has an intelligent idea of the duties necessary to fill such an important post.  Everton; Scott; W. Balmer, Crelley; Booth, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Donnachie.  Sunderland; Naisby; Rhodes, Watson; Farquhar, Tomlin, Willis; Hogg, O’Donnell, Shaw, Gemmill, and Bridgett.  Referee; F. Heath, Birmingham. 

EVERTON 3 SUNDERLAND 1
March 26, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S RETURN TO FORM.
FINE DISPLAY AGAINST SUNDERLAND.
After the wretched display which the Everton team gave against Woolwich Arsenal, givings as to the outcome of their match with Sunderland. Especially was this the case in view of the fact that for three seasons in succession the Wearsiders had triumphed at Goodison park, without the home contingent being able to score a solitary goal. Happily the Evertonians for once in a way gave of their best, and it is quite within the range of probability that if the football public had any idea of the quality of the game Everton were to play the attendance might have been doubted. The improvement too came at an opportune time, for is not the game of the season to be played at Birmingham next Saturday? Certainly Everton's latest exhibition has given their supporters additional hope for the success of their favourites in the semi final at Aston-park with their keen but friendly rivals of Anfield-road. One thing is certain, that if Youngs plays up to the standard which he attained against Sunderland the Liverpool defence, strong as it is, will have to be on their best behaviour.
POINTS OF THE PLAN.
The weather was scarcely calculated to bring out the best points of the Association code, for the strong wind which blow from goal to goal interforced not a little with the best intentioned efforts of the contestants, Sunderland's opportunity of repeating previous victories came to them in the first half when they had the benefit of the breeze. Unfortunately for them, but all the better for Everton, they failed to rise to the occasion, and threw away chances of scoring by resorting to the dallying tactics when in front of the goal posts. As a matter of fact, Everton opened the scoring Young being the excentant. It was a brilliant effort, too, on the part of the home centre forward, who had to thank Settle for giving him the chance as the result of a well judged pass, Sunderland although in arrears played up strongly, and when Balmer had to leave the field owing to injury one might have expected an extra efforts to be made on their part. Singularly enough it was not until Balmer's reappearance that the equalising goal arrived, Shaw netting the ball after Gemmill had tested Scott. There was quite a different story to tell of the second halt. Aided by the wind the Evertonians came out of their shell, and in the end-ran the Sunderland men off their feet. Nalsby proved a rare custodian, and certainly no blame could possibly attach to him for his failure to stop the shots with which Abbott and Young scored. Indeed, he kept out many hot attempts one from a splendid shot by Young being exceedly clever. Everton won conformably by three goals to one, and, as has been indicated afforded great delight to their followers.
YOUNG'S REVIVAL.
The most pleasurable feature of the game from an Everton point of view was the capital display of Young. The Everton centre has proved disappointing practically throughout the season, but in the match under notice he showed the ability which a few years ago led to him receiving his cap against England. Apart from his judgement work in midfield he let himself go in the matter of shooting, with the result that he credited himself with a couple of goals, while other shots of his might easily have beaten a less skilful custodian than Nalsby. With Young in such form it will require a very powerful defence to overcome the Everton front line, while Sharp, Bolton, and Settle attained their usual standard, it was pleasing to note the advance made by Donnachie, who especially in the later stages of the match was singularly effective as substitute for Hardman. Abbott signallised his reappearance in the half-back line by scoring a goal- and what a terrific shot it was- on other respects he gave a sound display. Scott was safe in goal, and despite Balmer's injury, there was little fault to be found with the Everton backs. Nalsby proved himself a most capable custodian, and probably the two other prominent figures on the Sunderland side were Watson and Shaw. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs Booth (Captain) Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Donnachie forwards. Sunderland: - Nalsby, goal, Rhodas, and Watson, backs, Farquhar, Tomlin, and Willis, half-backs Hogg, O'Donnell, Shaw (Joseph), Gemmill, and Bridgetts, forwards. Referee F.Heath.

NELSON 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
March 26 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 31)
In view of the recent moderate displays on the part of Everton Reserves, it was hardly to be expected that they could prove equal to the task of beating Nelson. They, however, put up a good fight, although they had to acknowledge another defeat. Changes were again made in the forward line, but as the team failed to score the alteration would not appear to have been altogether successful. Nelson put on a goal in each half, and at times gave the Everton defenders plenty of work, but Depledge, and his backs played well all through, and it was chiefly due to their sound work that Nelson did not score oftener than they did. One of the Everton backs was Russell a Midland player, and he showed that he has good football in him. Like Everton, the home side had a sound defence, the ready tackling of the halves and full backs preventing the visitors from getting into their stride. There was however, a lack in method near goal, and an improvement in the attack is necessary if Everton are to make any further progress in the table. They have only won two matches since the New Year, and then only by a single goal in each instance. It is to be hoped that a victory will be forthcoming on Tuesday evening when Oldham Athletic visits Goodison-Park. Everton: - Deledge goal, Wildman, and Russell, backs, Black, Chadwick, and Donaldson, half-backs, Birnie, Holmes, Bowser, McLoughlin, and Grundy, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 OLDHAM ATHLETIC RESERVES 0
March 28 1906. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 32)
This rearranged match was played at Goodison-park last evening, before a moderate attendance. It was the return engagement between the clubs, the initial match having resulted in favour of Oldham by a goal to nil, the point being scored from a penalty kick. Everton made several changes from Saturday's team, the elevens being as follows: - Everton: - Depledge, goals, Streetle, and Wright, backs, Frith, Chadwick, and Donaldson, half-backs, Birnie, Holmes, Bannister, McLaughlin, and Grundy, forwards. Oldham: - Wright, goals, Hobson, and Stafford, backs, Fay, McAllister, and Heywood, half-backs, Kelly, Shadbolt, Galvin, Cairns, and Tannahill, forwards. Galvin kicked off, and the Athletic were the first to show up, Wright repulsing, Everton retaliated, and Bannister tried Wright with a beauty, which the custodian cleared. Wright followed this with a long drive, but Hodson got the ball out of the ruck and cleared. The Athletic could not get away, and Chadwick forced Wright to give a corner from a long effort. This came to naught, however, for a long period the game was went in favor of the home team. Strettell, a recruit from the Lively Polly Club, showing up well in defence when the Athletic tried to break away. Bannister then beat Wright with a high shot, and opened the scoring for the home team. Thus encouraged, Everton put on further pressure, and soon afterwards McLaughlin scored a second goal with a swift drive, Wright being helpless. Oldham were never really dangerous, although once Galvin sent close with a long shot Everton, though doing all the pressure, could not beat Wright again, and the interval arrived with the score 2-0 in favour of the home side. Everton restarted, and Oldham had a look in, McAllister sending over, McLaughlin following suit at the other end. The Athletic improved considerably on their form of the first half, Strettell clearing beautifully and Depledge saving a fine attempt by Kelly. Good work by Tannahill and Cairns was negative by Chadwick, the Athletic for some time quite as much of the play as their opponents. Galvin forced Depledge to given a corner, which proved useless. Depledge had to give another corner in order to prevent a shot from Kelly taking effect, the flag kick again proving abortive. The Athletic were trying hard to open their score, but Depledge and his backs were safe, the custodian saving well from Kelly. The closing portion of the game was evenly contested, and once Bannister nearly got through, but nothing further was scored, and Everton gained a welcome victory. Final- Everton two goals Oldham Athletic nil.