Everton Independent Research Data

 

JOHM McDONALD SIGNS FOR EVERTON
May 1 1920. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Everton have signed on John McDonald, full back of the Airdrie Club, McDonald played for Scotland in the victory International against Ireland and was chosen for the Scottish League again this year. He stands ft 9 and half inches Weighs 11 stone and is twenty-five years old.

SOUTH LIVERPOOL V EVERTON “A”
May 1, 1920. The Liverpool Football Echo
At Dingle Park, before 3,000 spectators Everton played downhill, and had the best of the opening play, but Morris and Wynn defended well. Cotton miss a good chance by sending over the bar when nicely placed, and later Mitchell saved from Cooper and Harrington. The game for a friendly was very interesting, and was played at a good pace, both sides putting in clever work, but the home forwards were the most dangerous in front of goal, and showed more method in there attack. Mitchell saved firstly from Harrington, who received a splendid pass from close in, and the goalkeeper was heartily cheered for his feat. Eventually Cooper scored for the South, shortly after Robinson should have equalised as Kearslake work a splendid opening for him, but his final effort hit the crossbar. Harrington them scored a second for the South Liverpool.

A NICE “HOW-D-YE-DO” AT EVERTON.
May 1, 1920. The Liverpool Football Echo
“New times demand new measures and new men.” The following excerpt from Thursday's Echo is the most interesting news of Everton we have heard for many a day. Listen to this. A circular is to be posted to the shareholders in a few days pointing out the club's position and the cause thereof, and stating that the three retiring directors (Messrs J. Davies, Halsall, and Banks) are not re-lected the remaining directors will resign their position, as the adverse vote will imply a want of confidence in the whole board. As a shareholder used to having a “larger” say in these matters I “ devored” this pronouncement with the greatest avidity. For some time past I have been an “intense” advocate of change which, according to an old proverb is good for man and neast. A great mind once enlightened mankind with the knowledge that “new demands new measures, and new men,” and surely Everton's lean season is in itself sufficient reason for the all-powerful shareholders to decide upon, whatever course of drastic action they deen nest. The apathy lethargy or dormancy –call it what you will –of the Everton shareholders this season has been one of life's tragedies, and now when they rouse themselves to a sense of their bounden duty of putting the Everton house in order to the satisfaction of the club's thousands of supporters, their doings are interpreter as a want of confidence in the directors. The shareholders of Everton are members of a Limited liability company –not mere marionettes –and as such have omnipotent powers, which they relegate to certain persons whom they choose as directors –the choice being absolutely their own prerogative. The directors though invested with such plenary powers, often lose sight of the fact that they are nevertheless the servant of the shareholders, who can elect re-elect, or depose them ad lib, without anybody's leave or hoence or any notice of a “want of confidence” stunt. There are many shareholders –and I have power to add to their number –who would like to see an infusion of new blood on the directorate at once. In other words, that Mr. Gibbons and Mr. Sawyer be “run” as candidates in opposition to Messrs, Davies, and Halsall at the forthcoming annual meeting. All those in favour of the movement “get busy.” Now is the acceptable time, fellows shareholders to assert your authority.
LOCAL PLAYERS “IN BENEFIT.”
So Everton are granting benefits to Fern, Mitchell, Harrison, Thompson, Parker, and Weller. The list may seen a lengthy one, but you will find shareholders agreeing that it should be more elastic. There seems to be no mention of Clennell and Kirsopp. The former drew £250 on account, last season and probably will “click” for the other half in due course. But it strikes me –though I am open to correction –that Kirsopp is eligible for a benefit if he has been affiliated to Everton five or six years. I hold no brief for individuals, but I certainly believe in giving pure local –who cost practically nothing –every encouragement and a prompt benefit. Everton abound in wealth, and can easily financially recognise all eligible players on their books. Delays in accommodation are not conductive to good feeling among the players. By the way, how many of their players are Liverpool benefiting this season.

ELLESMERE PORT CEMENT WORKS V EVERTON.
May 1, 1920. The Liverpool Football Echo
Last Saturday on the much-improved Cement Works enclosure the Cement Works were engaged with a representative team from Everton in a friendly encounter. Half-time arrived with no score. After the interval the Cement men set about the game in a businesslike manner, and Stanley was unfortunate in not securing a point, the goalkeeper being weak in clearing a ground shot. After sixty minutes Stanley was again prominent and placed the ball into the goalmouth, and Hodinson hesitating, not to clear let in Shields who promptly placed the home team one up. The visitors enlivened by this reverse made dashes towards the home goal and Catchpole was quick upon to save a high shot. The little goalie all but let it pass him, and although almost beaten he with characteristic catlike agility pounced up the ball on the goal-line, and the home supporters were again able to breathe freely. The home team pressed and after many vigorous attacks, their movements were rewarded, by another goal, Jefishy heading in from a corner. The whistle blew with Cement hailing by 2 goals to nil. The visitors were afterwards entertained at tea in the Cement Offices when a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the Everton team for visiting such an excellent game.

EVERTON RES v R. BLOODS TEAM
Leek Times- Saturday May 1, 1920
On Thursday evening a match was played on the Abbey Green Road ground for the benefit of Harry Weller who broke his arm while assisting the Alexandra against Goldenhill Wanderers. The weather was beautifully fine and as a result there as a record gate for the ground, about 2,500 being present. The ground was in a wretched condition. Mr. T. Smith Myatt, who has done such a lot for Leek football in the past kicked-off. The game throughout, as all friendly games are, was rather tame with the Everton side always a little on top. In the first two minutes Gault scored for the Toffee men from a fine centre by Jones. Bon Blood tried hard to equalise but failed. In the second half Robinson put on a second for Everton, and although Blood’s team had many chances they could not score.
Result;- Everton Res 2, R. Blood’s Team 0
Teams;- Everton; Mitchell; Macconnachie, Evans; L. Weller, Waring, Williams, Jones, Robinson, Gault, Mason and Harrison. R. Blood’s team;- Bourne (Port Vale); Deakin (Cheddleton), Birch (Leek), Raw (Cheddleton), Pointon (Stoke), Hughes (Leeks), Smith and Swann (Manchester United), Blood (Port Vale), Prentice (Manchester United), and Fellowes (Stoke). Mr. James Mason, of Burslem was the referee. Both teams afterwards were entertained at the George Hotel.

BEE’S COMMENTS ON THE WALTON MATCH
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, May 1, 1920
Everton F.C. have inaugurated a fund for Alec Dick, their old player. Donations should be sent to Mr. McIntosh, Everton F.C, Goodison Park.
Everton’s match was a brilliant finale, because they were out to wind up with victory. North End looked upon the match as a test match. They had been to Blackpool training or the great day. Everton played Chedgzoy for Jones, and both sides were well represented; - Teams;- Everton; Fern; Down (Captain), Thompson; Brown, Fleetwood, Weller; Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Peacock, Rigsby, Harrison. Preston; causer; Broadhurst, Speak; Lees, McCall, Dawson; Clifton, Jefferis, Roberts, Woodhouse, Quinn. Forty thousand people looked on and wondered. Preston were playing for their existence. In the first five minutes Quinn fired on the target, Fern making a brilliant save, and moreover seconding the effort when the corner was taken. Still better was the shot made by Jefferis, and the ball was somewhat unlucky because it was caught in the wind and passed a shade wide. Everton made reply by means of a Harrison centre, but was too close in to be really full of danger. Fast and keen striving was the game, and for a second time Jefferis essayed to score against his old club-mates, the ball this time swinging in at no great pace and the direction being at fault.
DOWNS FAILS AT PENALTY
McCall and Fleetwood were prominent in breaking up attacks, and both defences were rugged Downs being lucky to get a free kick after a tussle with Quinn. Quinn had no sooner forced Fern to put a shot down than Downs, his adversary, was called up to take a penalty awarded by Referee Tomlinson. Preston were dumbfounded that a spot kick had been granted, as they thought that it was a free kick for North End. McCall and others protested without result, and the offence by which Kirsopp’s legs were whipped up led to the customary gift shot. Downs shot wide to the right, and some of the crowd cheered. I wonder why?
AN OPPORTUNIST’S GOAL
It was an extraordinary incident, and was followed by others, first in the number being the wretched miss by Roberts after Jefferis had placed him comfortably for a goal. It is questionable whether Roberts was offside, but it matters not in view if his wide shot. Roberts redeemed himself in a twinkling, for he drove in a magnificent ball- a 20 yards’ length-the ball travelling furiously past Fern’s left hand. It was the goal of an opportunist and was a beauty of its particular pattern.
HOW THE GOAL WAS SCORED
The former Southport centre was given warm handshakes. The goal was traceable to an incident at the other end of the side, and I shall always associate this remarkable goal with Speke’s name, because it was Speake, with a brilliant stab back, that made the movement which made the opening score possible. Roberts injured the base of his spine, and Jefferis tried hard to make a penalty from a free kick against Thompson. Quinn, for the third time, went close his last effort being his worst, because it was a wild stroke. Peacock took the match very seriously, although he was faced by the brilliance of McCall. A free kick for a pretty severe offence on Chedgzoy gave Peacock his best chance, and the reason he did not use it was due to all North End developing abilities as full backs. Downs delighted with double-shuffle kicks, by sliding moves, and by resolute punting, also by heading away a corner that was full of danger.
Half-time; Everton 0, Preston North End 1
It was a comfortable sort of first half Preston were value for their goal because they made telling efforts when near goal, and Fern had six minutes as much work to do as Causer; in fact, the latter’s test consisted of one shot from Harrison. The band played an appropriate selection (“Till we meet again”) to suit the occasion of the last league match.
CLENNELL AN INLOOKER
An interesting spectator of the game was Joe Clennell, who has finished with hospitals and operations, I hope. Clennell was deeply anxious to know how his old team at Blackpool was faring at half-time. Early in the second half McCall, from a corner kick, made a full-fledged drive of immense power, and Fern saved remarkably well, after which there was a stoppage through Weller having a face blow.
DOWNS IN THE VANGUARD
Everton had a corner edged near by Chedgzoy, and only two of the home forwards got placed in the goalmouth, and one of the number Peacock, headed over. Downs became a forward for a moment, only to catch the epidemic when near goal of screwing wide. Play was very patchy, and one patch led to Chedgzoy hobbling off with an injured leg, first Speake and when Broadhurst catching him.
McCALL BADLY INJURED
Preston suffered a calamity the very next minute, as McCall (their captain), getting low, received a kick on the temple and suffered so severely that he had to be carried off and a doctor sent for. McCall seemed to lose consciousness, and it was evident that the last match of the season has resulted in a very severe injury to the great centre-half. Chedgzoy returned, and the game developed in spirit for a time. It appeared that McCall had a cut under the left eye, which happily was not serious.
McCALL REAPPEARS
Vincent Hayes went on to the touchline to reorganise the North End side. Jefferis becoming a back, and Leeds taking up the centre half position, McCall in the mean-time was patched up, and reappeared, apparently knowing little of what was going on. Causer brought some interest into play by swinging on to the cross-bar when a high ball came his way. There was rainfall to add to the displeasure of the day, and the ball became unmanageable.

MAC A DEALS WITH THE SCOTTISH LEAGUE
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, May 1, 1920
The coming of spring has a remarkably rejuvenating effect upon “the old boys” as it has upon the young ones. The publication in the “Echo” of letters from “has-beens, recalling events of long ago, together with the photographs of the Everton and Aston Villa teams in 1897 must have stirred up old memories in the mind of more than your humble servant. The reprint in Saturday’s “Football Echo” of the Everton “features” of twenty-three years ago was most interesting; Dave Storrier, Dicky Boyle, “Daddy” Holt, Soldier Stewart, smart Arridge, of Bottle, Jack Taylor, Hartley (a much-criticised and barracked centre forward), jack Bell (like Dicky Boyle, a Dumbarton youth), Edgar Chadwick, and Alf Milward. I think the pose of the two latter international left-wing forwards must have reminded many readers of “Hookey” Chadwick’s legs and Milward’s pedestrian runs of a quarter of a century ago at Goodison. And what a typical attitude of Johnny Holt! And, then, who does not call to mind the Anglo-Irishman Reynolds, a great warrior; Howard Spencer, a ladylike back with brains; Campbell the great Villa centre forward; Charlie Athersmith, the flying man; Devey, a real team captain; Fred Wheldon, with the ball an artist; James Crabtree, one of the finest exponents of the game I ever saw in the old days of Burnley, and the two Cowans. I am going to show John Cowan his “picture” one of these days. He is a neighbour of mine, and still takes a passing interest in the old game.
THE PAST AND PRESENT
There were Everton teams before 1897. Many readers of this column can look back to the days of Jack McGill, Mike Higgins, Billy Briscoe, Andy Gibson, Fleming, Charlie Parry, George Farmer, and George Dobson, some of whom were the contemporaries of Alec Dick, now no longer able to act as a back in the world’s strenuous attack. Is he to be left on the field waiting for the world’s ambulance which will never arrive? Or is Alec to be carried off and to be looked after in comfort for the rest of his days? Whether the Football Association fund for old players applies to the former Anfield road-yes, Anfield-road back, for that is where Alex Dick gave of his uttermost for Everton-it is not for me to decide. Personally, I think it does. But is there an old Anfield Road attender of former days who reads this column and who has felt that Mac Z knows something of the Sandon dressing room period, who will permit himself to be numbered with a particularly personage of whom it was said. “He passed by on the other side.” No, I will never believe it. The old players must be remembered. We must never again have cause to read of the horrible tragedy of a well-know international of the 80’s being found dead on a brick-kiln, where he had apparently gone to obtain warmth. It was at Anfield-road that the Wells light was first used in Liverpool, to illuminate the ground. Let us have the Wells light thrown on to Alec Dick’s case and not attempt to evade our duty to our fellow man, because an old and valiant Everton back is now on the world’s shadow. Tonight’s the night for opportunity. Send what you can to the editor. He will guarantee that it reaches the right quarter. As Mr. Catton of the “Athletic News,” said last week. “Let us not forget the heroes of other days for they have brightened a little hour or two for us.”

AIRDRIE BACK FOR EVERTON.
Sunday Post - Sunday 02 May 1920
John M'Donald, the right back of Airdrieonians, has been signed by Everton.  M'Donald played last season in the League Victory 'National, and this season he represented the Scottish League against Ireland at Belfast. He belongs to Dykehead, 5ft. 10ins., and weighs 12 stone 7 lbs. The transfer fee is put £2500

EVERTON 0 PRESTON NORTH END 1
May 3, 1920. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON LOSE MATCH VITAL TO PRESTON
DOWNS MISSED A PENALTY
There was a “do or die” aspect about the visit of Preston North End to Goodison Park on Saturday. Defeat would have been fatal to the North End prospects of staying in the First Division had their immediate neighbour been fortunate enough to win. That, of course, they could not be aware of until it was too late, and they displayed a determination to frust to their own efforts, which kept the home side fully extended for the whole of the ninety minutes. In the end Preston, made their position secure by scoring the only goal of the game, but prior to this they had a let off through Downs missing a penalt y kick (Kirsopp was Grassed –Daily Post). On the whole Preston deserved their win, because they had the more convincing forward line, and there was more method and purpose in their attack than the rather spasmodic efforts of the home five, however, were not helped by the over-shooting of their backs. Fern kept a good goal, and had no chance with the winning shot, which was a real beauty from 20 yards, with plenty of pace, and good direction, though Roberts had missed a much better opening just before Downs and Thompson were excellent when purely on the defensive, but put more power than was advisable behind the majority of their clearances, which consequently went to the Preston backs more often than to the home forwards. Fleetwood was the best of the halves, while the extreme wing forwards were also good, but met with very little support from the inside men. Causer had little to do, being well covered, and McCall was the best player on the field till he sustained a nasty cut under his eye in the second half. Jefferis was the brains in an attack, in which every man was keen for a shot at each opportunity. Teams : - Everton: - Fern, goal, Downs, and Thompson, backs, Brown, Fleetwood (Captain), and Weller, half-backs, Chedgzoy, Kirsopp, Peacock, Rigsby, and Harrison, forwards. Preston North End: - Causer, goal, Broadhurst, and Speak, Lees, McCall, and Dawson, half-backs, Clifdon, Jefferis, Roberts, Woodhouse, and Quinn, forwards.

PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 8 EVERTON RESERVES 4
May 3, 1920. The Liverpool Courier.
CEMTRAL LEAGUE (Game 42)
No details in local papers.

A PENALTY MISSES FIRE
The Liverpool Echo-Monday, May 3, 1920
Bee’s Notes
Everton played a listless sort of game in more than one of their ranks on Saturday at Goodison Park, and Downs missed a penalty kick. The stupor which Preston fell into when they found the correct decision of a penalty had been granted was a study in facial expression. However, the shot went wide, and thereon North End breathed again and recognised their chance. Possibly the referee would have given another penalty for hands near the finish of the game had he been supported by a linesman. Fern kept the better side on the day a play from running up a good score for Quinn, Roberts, Jefferis, and all but Clifton were swift to take half a chance. The goal that scored was typical of Roberts, ex-Southport, who, it is claimed, cannot play football, but can shoot. Well, we could do with some shooters, whether they can play football or otherwise. There are too many who can work the ball forward and yet not clinch matters when a simple chance comes their way. The best men were McCall (badly injured, I fear), Speak (not so wild a back as many imagine), Jefferis (artist ever, yet practical, and a man who makes golden openings), and Quinn (although one-footed, he is very dangerous). Everton’s best were defenders; while Fleetwood got through a lot of work, and Brown was fairly prominent. Harrison alone of the forwards did himself justice. Did you, reader, notice that McCall spoke to Speak for his method of dealing with Chedgzoy? Had Joe McCall come to Liverpool at the moment he was wanted he would be a storming success and would not have had so much work to do as has fallen his way during the last four months.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 PRESCOT 0
May 4 1920. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
LIVERPOOL ASSIOCIATION MEDAL COMPETITION .
Everton and Prescot attacked in turn at the outset of their match. Jones after beating Dutton, centred, but the inside man failed to take advantage of a good opening. Harrison sent in a beauty-which was cleared with difficulty. The visitors swung the ball about more than Everton, and at times the home defence was severely tested. In the second half Everton pressed, but the fine defence prevailed and Farrar prevented them scoring. Prescot strove hard to score, but Thompson cleared many a dangerous situation, and the final arrived with no score. Extra time was played, and the home goal had some very narrow escapes, Roberts being inches wide just on the finish.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 PRESCOT 1
May 6, 1920. The Liverpool Courier.
LIVERPOOL ASSOCIATION MEDAL COMPETITION
Everton and Prescot net last night for the replay tie of the Medal Competition at Anfield in wet weather, and on a sudden pitch. This time the Goodison Park men made no mistake, and won by 3 goals to 1. In the first half, Jones had extremely hard luck in hitting the upright. A little later the same player hit the woodwork again from the rebound Stuart scored. Prescot after this extended themselves, but Thompson and Robinson easily served their line. Blair put Everton further ahead after Wall had worked the passage. In the second half the Blues did all the pressing, in the early stages, but after 10 minutes play, Parr got through for Prescot. Just on time Wall added the third for Everton, the semi-final well be played at Anfield tomorrow might, against Liverpool at 7-30

MACCONNACHIE'S FREE TRANSFER AND EVANS TO SWINDON
May 7 1920. The Liverpool Echo
I have news that Everton have given Macconnachie, Wareing, and some others a free transfer, and that Macconnachie is likely to go to Fulham. W. B. Evans, the sturdy full back, who has been fancied by W. Meredith was this week signed by the Swindon Club

LIVERPOOL RESERVES 4 EVERTON RESERVES 1
May 7 1920. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury.
LIVERPOOL COUNTY ASSOCIATION MEDAL COMPETITION.
The semi-final ties in the Liverpool County Association Medal Competition was played at Anfield last night. Liverpool meeting Everton and South Liverpool opposing Marine. In the game between Liverpool and Everton the home team were the first to score, a corner well taken by Wadsworth and a miskick by Thompson resulting in J. Miller beating Mitchell. McKinney added a second and a few minutes later Cox registered a third. Blair strove hard to reduce the lead, but Penman and Jenkinson were equal to all calls. The Blues opened the second half in determined fashion, Baker saving smartly from Jones. Miller centred, and Johnson put on a fourth for Liverpool, while from a scrimmage Kearslake scored for Everton.

“L” AFLAIRE EVERTON
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, May 8, 1920
Since the announcement by the Everton boardmen, all of them, by the way-that they would resign if the three retiring directors were not re-elected without opposition, matters have become tremendously hot” these men-dourly I almost wrote! - interesting in the Everton camp. “L’ Allaire Everton” palpitates with possibilities! According to one reader; but that to a very mild way of expressing oneself in sensing up and unexpected denouement. With the generality of shareholders-If I may judge from the talk downtown- the threat seems to have the same effect on them as water on a duck’s back. The threat has had the opposite effect to what its generally wished. The “resignation” stunt has given the syndicate propaganda a great impetus, and they are “patching in” to the work of running their new nomination, Messrs. Sawyer, and Gibbons, along with Mr. Banks. Proxies for the syndicate’s trio are alleged to be coming in as thick as autumn leaves in Vallumbrass. They are hopeful of garnering in four hundred proxies to ensure the election of their three men, and, incidentally, the deposition of two of the retiring directors. Such a contretemps would spell the resignation of the board-it is incumbent on them to vacate their slate as promised in the event of an adverse vote- but the syndicate, so it is alleged, are quite prepared for such a contingency, and have already the requisite “ingredients” of a new board at their disposal.
SUGGESTED NEW BOARD?
Like the parrot at the back of the cage one of the Everton shareholders does a mighty lot of thinking. But he sometimes thinks “aloud” and here is one of his “thinks” regarding a new Everton board. According to him the following gentlemen would make an admirable “ensemble” Mr. W. Cuff (chairman), Messrs. D. Kirkwood, T.H. Jackson, J. Sharp, J. Blackoe, W. Sawyer, W. Gibbons, Chase Wright, and Banks, one of the present members of the board- nine in all.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP?
So far as I can gather there is no reference in the Everton Company’s articles of association respecting the appointment of life members. A special resolution would need to be passed at the annual general meeting to translate a retiring director into a life member.
SOME CHIN-WAGGING!
The most interesting item from behind the Everton scenes- Anfield matters seem somewhat pianissimo by the way- is to the effect that the chairman of the syndicate and Everton’s chairman had a long confablast Saturday, but it would take more than a hushed poultice to draw it all out here in print
THE ACCOUNT OF THEIR STEWARDSHIP
Up to the time of writing the compendium of achievement of the Everton directors as recorded in the minute book has not reached the shareholders, although it was promised some days ago. But the fact remains, Everton had a wretched playing season, and it is now up to the shareholders to avail themselves of the glorious chance of asserting their authority of making a clean sweep and of infusing new blood into the concern. New companies are all the vogue these days- therefore, fellow shareholders, wake up and be “voguish.” HAVE A NEW BOARD!

EVERTON BENEFITS
The Liverpool Echo-Tuesday, May 11, 1920
Bee’s Notes
Last night, at the Bradford Hotel, the annual meeting of the Everton F.C was held, when Fern, Harrison, Thompson, Mitchell, Parker, Weller, and Clennell received their benefit money. Cheques for 500 pounds were handed to each of the players named, with the exception of Clennell, who received the balance of 250 pounds, which amount he had already received.
EVERTON TRANSFER
Everton have transferred Galt and Page to Cardiff City, who are applicants for admission to the Second Division.
AT PRENTON PARK
Everton have a match on Thursday night (6.30) at Prenton Park, when they meet the Rovers in the Birkenhead Hospital Cup competition. The team includes several new men who are on trial. Team; Mitchell; Corney, Thompson; Robinson, Farrer, Garrett, Ormerod, Wall, Bowers, Howarth, Carter.

GAULT AND PAGE TO CARDIFF CITY.
May 12 1920. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Everton have transfer Gault and Page to Cardiff City, who are applicants for admission to the second division, at the annual meeting of the Everton football Club on Monday night. Fern, Thompson, Mitchell, Parker, and Clennell, received their benefit money of £500, were handled to each of the players named with the exception of Clennell who received the balance of £250 which amount to had already received.

RISGBY TO SWANSEA
The Liverpool Echo- Wednesday, May 12, 1920
Bee’s Notes
Rigsby, the Everton forward, has been signed on by Swansea town. He is a capable shot, and with a shade more speed which could easily be worked he would be a power in the land. I have always believed in him, but I fear he has needed a regular placing to ensure bringing out his best. Some of the goals he has gotten for his club have stamped him as a good young fellow. He made appearance in the first team early in the season, but after the Bradford game (away), wherein he shaped quite well alongside Joe Donnachie, he lost his place.

TRANMERE ROVERS 8 EVERTON RESERVES 1
May 14, 1920. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
The final of the Birkenhead Borough hospital Cup was played on the ground of the holders, Tranmere Rovers last evening, and resulted in an overwhelming victory for the home side, the Everton Reserves team opposed to them being quite outplayed in the first half, playing against the wind, and the Rovers put on a couple of goals and Everton score one. In the second half the visitors were judiciously outclassed, and the Rovers added six goals, Groves scored four times and Mercer twice . Everton: - Mitchell, goal, Rooney, Thompson, backs, Robinson, Farrer, and Carratt, half-backs, Ormerod, Wall, Bowers, Howarth, and Carter.

ORMEROD
Burnley News - Saturday 15 May 1920
Everton will today give a trial (amongst other recruits) to Ormerod, an outside right from the Burnley district.  Ormerod has been tried by Burnley. 

ORMEROD
Burnley Express- Saturday, May 15, 1920
Everton will to-day give a trial (amongst other recruits) to Ormerod, an outside right from the Burnley district. Ormerod has been tried by Burnley.

EVERTON’S HON. SEC., MR. W.J. SAWYER, RESIGNS HIS POST AND NOW PUTS UP FOR DIRECTORSHIP
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, May 15, 1920
WAREING GOES TO SWINDON
By Bee
Sawyer has resigned his post as hon, Sec, Mr. Will J. secretary of the Everton Football club. Mr. Sawyer is standing as a prospective director, and it is said by those who support him that at the annual meeting in June he will “walk in.” Undoubtedly there are many changes in the offing at Goodison Park, where there has not been a peaceful time recently. Football enthusiast will be pleased to learn that Billy Wareing has been fixed up-by Swindon Town F.C.

EVIDENCE FROM AN EVERTON SUPPORTER
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, May 15, 1920
“As one of a group of ardent supporters of Everton F.C-the backbone of the club as the suppliers of filthy lucre week in and week out-I am asked to elicit your aid in drawing attention to the inefficiency of the present officials. As witnesses of the recent exhibitions of the Reserves team, we demand to know if the name of the official responsible for the signing on of Kearslake; (2) the names of the selection committee who put him in the League team at Oldham. The bow player is utterly useless for League football purposes and his appearance in the once famous Blue livery is damaging to the reputation ofthe club, nottospeakof the evileffecton theotherten playersstarting on encounter with such a handicap. Young Houghton would lose him for science, power of shooting and general ability.
Speaking for myself and friends I do trust you will keep pegging away at the inadequate efforts made by the present board. As “Chiming Bells” wrote, the Everton Club is an institution and not merely local to Liverpool. I have travelled largely in Great Britain in Devonshire I have come in contact with natives whose interests are centred in Everton; in Yorkshire and Wales I have had the same experience. My Scottish friends if Rangers are their first love, have always a speaking regard for Everton. On tour in Belgium and France, exiled Britons, and not Liverpool men either, have expressed their admiration for the old club. So it behoves us all to gather all possible strength to put the club back to its rightful place in the front rank. But what vote has the humble supporter at the back of the goal or on the clock side? Can you as a shareholder, voice it for us? Do, please keep hammering away until a clearance is obtained-Looker On.”
  “Looker-on” and Everton’s huge clientele “with out a vote”- can rest assured that the syndicate have in course of preparation “an ARMY NUMBER NINE PILL” that will restore the club.
PROXIES SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS
The Everton shareholders number approximately eight hundred, but probably not more than a quarter of that number will attend the annual meeting which is usually held at the height of the holiday season. Vote now by signing the syndicate’s form of proxy, their three candidates being Messrs. Banks, Gibbons, and Sawyer. Thus will you be doing a far better thing than you have done for an age. BUT DO IT NOW.

WAREING TO SWINDON
May 17, 1920, The Liverpool Echo
Wareing of Everton, has been fixed up by Swindon Town, the transfer being free.

MR. McINTOSH IN BELFAST
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Tuesday 18 May 1920
Mr. M'lntosh, the Everton manager, -was in Belfast on Saturday, and the object of his visit was Josaph Gowdy, the Irish international centre-forward of Glentoran, who shown fine form of late, and who in the last two games of the season has scored four goals. The transfer fee mentioned was high, and so far no business has been done, but is quite likely that the player will be transfered, Gowdy himself is willing.

BEE’S NOTES
The Liverpool Echo- Friday, May 21, 1920
Everton “A” team promise to have a stronger side than usual in the coming season, and Mr. Tom McIntosh is anxious to be “the early worm” in the matter of fixtures for this side. So will secretaries of strong sides kindly write him at once to Goodison Park, and name dates, &c. now is the accepted time.

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB'S RESUME.
May 22, 1920. The Liverpool Football Echo.
THE GIST OF A STATEMENT OF SOME DIRECTORS ISSUED
TO SHAREHOLDERS CONCERNING THE PAST SEASON.
The position of the club in the League table the club in canvassing the members for voting proxies to be used at the annual meeting, for their own purpose, before the directors have had an opportunity of explaining the position, causes us to send out this resume of the season's work, so that the shareholders may have information at their disposal which will guide their actions, in the opening sentence of a report issued by five of the Everton F.C. directors. The report goes on: -
The position of the club in the League table is lower than usual, and this situation is being used by a small section of the shareholders to further an end which they have had in view for some years, namely, to get the control of the club's affairs into their own hands. For some years one gentleman especially has been most active to secure any shares in the club which were offered for sale, and when we say that this gentleman's signature has appeared on the majority of the transfer forms sent into the club' for some time past, and that this gentleman in the past, as well as at present, has taken a leading part in the opposition to the board over a series of years, the object of this search for shares is apparent. There are some-supporters, who have gathered around this gentleman, and the small body would like, through their nominees to control the club and make the directors toe the line to their diotation, and not according to the wishes of the general body of shareholders. These men are not known in the world of sport; they are inexperienced in management of big concerns such as yours, yet they wish to bring to heel (their heel) every member of the board. As an instance of this intolerance one of the retiring directors was asked whether he intended to attend a meeting called by this section, and when he replied that he wanted to remain neutral (whatever that might mean), he was told that unless he presented himself at the meeting, a candidate would be nominated against him, and he would lack the support of this section. He came to heel, attended the meeting, and is being supported. Is it the wish of the shareholders of our great club that their directors should loss their independence, that they should bow to the dictation of this small section? If they do, we cannot stand for it, and will gladly give up our position under such a state of things.
SECRETS LEAK OUT.
We do not know whether it is done to order, but it is a fact that the proceedings of our board meetings are reported outside, and matters which should be kept a secret are known to people outside. Take one instance out of many, when we were negotiating the purchase of the property which we recently brought, our chairman asked, for obvious reasons, that no reference to our negotiations should be made outside as it might prejudice our chance of purchase. Yet at a subsequent meeting off the board stated that Mr. – one of the leaders of the clique though we were doing a wise thing to purchase the property, that the price we intended to offer was satisfactory. We were told that this gentleman also said that if he had sufficient loose cash he would be quite prepared to buy as an investment. Is it right that important happenings should be given to one or two shareholders and not to the whole? Is it right that information which if known outside the board-room might be to the hurt of the club, should be given to selected and ruling members of the clique? We say emphatically “No.” We also say that when you want an outside committee to assist the directors, it is for the shareholders as a body to appoint such an committee, and to define their duties and not for these self-appointed gentlemen to know what the directors are doing, and assent of dissent, and send their messages to the board through their delegates. An endeavour is made to camouflage this syndicate's real leaders, and push men into the limelight who are likely to give confidence. For instance an old member a man greatly respected, was unexpectedly asked to take the chair at a meeting of the clique. The first information he had that he was desired to preside over the meeting was some time after he arrived at the hall. He only attended the meeting out of curiosity, and did not look upon himself as being anything more than a visitor, and eventually became the chairman of that particular meeting. He has been-menstroned in the press at the chairman of the syndicate, this to give the latter body a tinge of respectability, but when the syndicate in order to further use this gentleman, asked him, through one of their party to nominate their candidates he, when writing the notice, did not remember the formula. He had to have it. Where did he send for it? To a public house, where a very active leader of the syndicate lives. The particulars came. But the chairman found that those, whose who were using him for their own purpose had not told him who would second the nomination. He had again to send to the public house, and a seconded was sent on. Surely it is not the desire of the shareholders that our great club, which was built up to greatness before some of these men ever thought of interesting themselves in the game, should be in the hands of this small section, who desire to elect men, who will answer to the crack of their whip, he responsible to them and not to the shareholders generally. We believe that you desire men to govern the club, who will not be cowed down by any syndicate but who will do their duty fearlessly, act as their conscience dictates, and in the end, render an account of their stewardship to the whole body of shareholders, and not a “star chamber of self-appointed and self-interested men who have recently taken an interest in your club, after it reached its present greatness.
DIRECTORS AND BAD SEASON.
It is true we have had a bad season. Are we going to be wretched sportmens, and blame the retiring directors for the club's position? All clubs have had their good and their lean seasons. It happens in the very nature of things. All the First Division Clubs except Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, and ourselves have had to fight their way back into the First Division. The Villa had to play in the test matches to hold their position, and the Rovers would have automatically gone into the Second Division only that the League was enlarged at the end of the season. So that we alone of the clubs have always been safe. The position of the club was naturally of more concern to the directors than to the ordinary shareholders. They felt it keenly. But it was due to circumstances which they could not control, and if this can be proved, why blame the board? Would any reasonable shareholder like to be blamed in such a case? If not, than apply the same rule to your board. For our club there are real reasons for the position we hold. It can be safely said that we have had more accidents to players, and serious accidents, than any other club. It must be admitted that if you can keep a team together and play them regularly you have an infinitely greater chance of winning your games than if you have to continually change your team. The champions of this season practically went through the season with about 13 players. This shows that they escaped injury, and in playing together, match after match, they found touch with each other. Each player knew the strength and weakness of his commdes, and played accordingly. On one Saturday we lost the services of two centre-half backs, and as a result of the injuries the men were out of the team for some time. On the following Wednesday out third centre-half was injured and has played only once since. On another occasion, Weller was severely kicked, and only played once afterwards, and on the day of Weller's injury, Brown damaged his ankle, so both right half-backs were out of action. No one was to blame, yet through these accidents our playing strength was decreased. Right through the season we have been troubled with these accidents. Not trivial affairs, but serious accidents which in three cases at least entailed serious operations. Could any shareholder have prevented this position? It not, why blame the directors? It is clear (1) that our position is due to injuries and sickness. (2) those all-possible steps were taken to strengthen the team, but failed due to the reasons given above. Is it fair or right then to blame the directors with these facts in view or to try to put the blame on the directors who retire from office this season? We appeal to the shareholders to take a reasonable and sportsmanlike view of the situation and act accordingly.
About three weeks ago a small section of the shareholders held a meeting, and we understand that two of your directors attended, and statements were made at the meeting which led those present to believe (1) that there had been continual friction and unfriendliness on the board; (2) that some members of the board have not given reasonable service in the club's interests.
AN HARMONIOUS BOARD.
Both of these propositions are untrue. You have never had a more harmonious board during the history of the club. One of the retiring directors is Mr. Davies, who has served the club for well nigh thirty years. When it required service morning, noon, and night, Mr. Davies readily gave his time and experience. When financial responsibility was necessary he took it. Through all the years he has given whole-hearted service to the club, and in ready, willing, and able to continue that service. Is he, after such service, which has helped to build up your club to its present eminence to be thrown away like a used rag, or is he to be honoured as he would be by any reasonable body of men? Neither of the gentlemen nominated in opposition to him can claim a tithe of his experience or interest in the well-being of the club. As to Mr. Halsall he has been on your board for six years. He was one of the founders and treasurer of the Tranmere Rovers Football Club. Through many years he stood by the club until it stands the fore most club in the district, after the leading First Division clubs. Mr. Halsall has been a member of the Wirral F.A. and the Liverpool County F.A. for over twenty years. His experience through this is invaluable to your club. Can either of his opponents claim such experience.
Dr. Baxter does not sign this circular, as, owing to circumstances, which have from time to time been explained, he has not been able to attend many of out matches or meetings for some years. The signatories to this circular feel the unfairness of the attack made on the retiring directors. They hold that no blame attaches to the board for our position, but that if blame is at all, blame it is on the whole board and not upon the gentleman who, due to the accident of rotation, are retiring this year. They are therefore, prepared to resign should they not obtain the support of the shareholders in the election of the retiring directors. It is a shame that in this year, when in all of our activities, social, politics, business, and sport, everything has been so much upset, and normal conditions never reached, and when in addition to this, your club has been so much handicapped through accident and illness to players advantage should be taken on this position by the new men who for years have tried to get control of your club after it had been built up to greatness. We ask you to consider the position gravely. It is difficult to build up. It is easy to break down –signed WR Clayton (Chairman), John Davies, H. Halsall, J.G. Davies, R.T. Francis.

STUD MARKS
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, May 22, 1920
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON F.C., SUPPORTERS' LETTERS.
May 24. 1920. The Liverpool Echo.
Everton F.C. directors issued their resume on Saturday, and it was published in the “Football Echo” as also the news of the signing of Broome, of Preston. Now have letters from others.
A TILT AT “VIN.”
“Shareholders” writes: - I observe that “Vin” has seemed he comments upon the E.F.C. If there were a little change now and again in the nature of his remarks your readers would probably regard him as a reasonable critic, but his tone is –and always was –acrid against the Everton Club. Why does he not discuss Liverpool occasionally? They have had their ups and downs and have invariably carried on smilingly taking the good with the bad as Spartans should; but they have been in the second division more than once, and there have been matters upon which a newspaper might comment; but “Vin” never has a word to say against them. On the other hand he has always been antagonistic towards Everton. Why? For all genuine supporters of Everton there is the very solid consolation that the unchanging bitterness of his attack (if they can be dignified by such a name) must cause your reasonable readers to ignore his comments, yet I feel I must protest against his later article. Anyone with the least intelligence knows the reason for Everton's weakness during the past season. Had there been no accidents to players or anything like an average number of accidents, Everton would have finished in a good position. Any decent writer would be sympathetic and not criticise unfairly. “ Perplexed” writes –I seldom miss buying the “Football Echo,” as I enjoy its many sports features. The articles are well written, the people who write them knew their subject. However, there is a blot. The partisanship of “Vin” is a matter of comment talk. He has never had a word of praise for the Everton Football Club during the years that he has written for your paper. How is this? The club has always been in the first flight, yet “Vin” has never had a good word to say either about the club or its directors. What does he know of the shareholders? Who gave him authority to air his argument? Ask “ Fairplay.” The men he names makes us laugh Why does he not nominate directors for other clubs.
A lover of the Local” says- I was sorry to see you allowing the gentleman to make an attack on one of the Everton youngsters. We should not attempt to belittle his intended career. I saw him play against South Liverpool; he scored the only goal. Another boy (McGrea) is a local, and not yet 17, and I believe was sighed by Everton when 15 and 3 months. He was the only real good football in the Everton forwards besides Kearslake. I was told he (McGrea) scored all the five goals against Marine for Everton A, and he scored for Everton Reserves against Aston Villa and played in five matches for Everton Reserves before he was 16. I consider it is about time we started to give our own local lads a chance.

EVERTON SIGN DAVID REID
May 25 1920. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
Everton have secured the transfer of David Reid of the Distillery Club, Belfast, who played centre forward for the Irish League against the English League last November, the transfer fee is said to be £1,500.

JACK SHARP.
May 27, 1920. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
The Football Association Council meeting on next Monday next will be asked to approve that Jack Sharp the Everton and Lancashire Cricketer sit on the directorate of either Liverpool or Everton.

EVERTON SHAREHOLDERS EXPRESS VIEWS.
May 27 1920. The Liverpool Echo.
“Old Shareholders” writes –“Win” is the best friend the Everton players and their hundred thousand clientele have had for many years –and perpetual thorn in the side of an unwieldy board (five one way four the other). All “Vin” wants, judging from his writings, is a capable pull-together board, one that the players and supporters can depend upon. More power to his pen. Proxies are the best reply to the Everton circular.
The Alec Dick Fund continues to grow steadily, and to the list already named in this column must be added £1 10s from George Dobson and two friends of Alec.” Mr. Dobson the old-time full back, in chatting, bore everybody's wish that Alex would be eased in his pain. Alec and Dobson used to pair together, and the curiosity of their pairing was the fact that when they were not in the same team Alec Dick, in collision with Dobson had a nasty break, and as soon as Dick got better he transferred over to Dobson's club, and the pair “lived together” as backs for many a day.

THE EVERTON CASE
The Liverpool Echo-Friday, May 28, 1920
Bee’s Notes
As a reader of the “Echo” and a supporter of Everton, I read with amazement in Monday’s issue a condemnation of “Vin’s” criticisms of the Everton directors, by two of the club’s supporters (writes “Old Evertonian”) I have watched the career of Everton since 1886 up to the present, and have been known discord to be so rampant in our ranks as it has been this season. Discontent nearly led to the club’s downfall. Have the Everton players ever contemplated entertaining their directors like their brother professionals in Liverpool F.C” I don’t think so. Why? Just ask some of the players. “Vin” I put personally as the “Bevin” of the players and spectators.

EVERTON SIGN IRISH CENTRE-FORWARD
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, May 29, 1920
Bee’s Notes
Everton have secured the transfer of David Reid, of the Distillery Club, Belfast, who played centre-forward for the Irish League v. the English League last November, but who finished up the season at outside-left. The transfer fee is said to be 1,500 pounds.

NOTES AND NOTIONS
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, May 29, 1920
By Vin
The uncensored diatribes of “Shareholders” and others against “Vin,” which appeared in Monday’s Echo,” are especially welcomed for the simple reason that for some weeks past we have been yearning to thrash the matter out according to Marquis of Queensberry rules (Second out!)
First get your facts, then go ahead.
“Shareholders” -in high flight of imagination-states that “Vin” has always been antagonists to the Everton Club. Did you ever hear such twaddle? Small wonder Shaun “Gierville says that some people periodically go wrong in the belfry! To whom does “Shareholder” refer when he speaks of the Everton Football club? To the wearers of the once famous blue jersey or to the governors of the concern, who have failed to give Everton supporters value for their money? “By their fruits you shall know them.”
    Ignorance! Thy name is shareholder.
I yield to no one in my heart interest in and support of the Everton Football club. Players and supporters know that fact off by heart. I am antagonistic to any board whose system of management is unworthy the club.
     There is only one way of seeing things rightly, and that is seeing all of them. -Ruskin.
“Shareholder” then indulges in the hopeless task of trying to “whitewash” Everton’s black record of last season with a tar-brush, which only serves to intensify the blackness.
He says;-
    Had there been no accidents to players, or anything like an an average number of accidents, Everton would have finished in a good position. Any decent writer would be sympathetic and not criticism unfairly.
Who ever heard of such distortion of facts? Everton were not more unfortunate than the generality of League clubs in the matter of injuries to players. My sympathy went out to the players in the knowledge that they were being “marionetted,” which, as the circular reveals was a house divided against itself and, therefore, sooner or later, doomed to fall.
      Benefits deferred market the player sick.-V.L.F
I can avouch that the uncertainty regarding the payments of overdue benefits too, caused talk of transfers between several players and directors during a period of the past disastrous season. In the light of such arrears, how could you expect a happy-family feeling to permeate the players’ rooms? 0and to accentuate matters, high-priced imported players boasted of their big cheques out of the transfer fees.
Who in the Merseyside Press other than “Vin” has pleaded month in, month out the cause of the players and advised our local clubs to settle all arrears of benefits to players owning to a service-connection of five or more years, and who, other than “Vin,” admonished the players to go in for legally bunding agreements? Who then has the best title to K.C for the Everton and Liverpool players and their hundred thousand supporters?
Twelve months ago the Chairman of the E.F.C Co., Limited, stated that only four benefits of 500 pounds would be paid at the close of season 1919-20. How many have been paid in 1920, or will be paid here this year expires? Eight including, it is alleged, two legal agreements!!! “Any decent writer would be sympathetic.” Is “Vin’s” advocacy of the players’ cause not the very best form of decency, especially where an anaemic board is concerned.”
If, as “Shareholder” vainly tries to make out, everybody has been so lovely in the Goodison garden last season how comes it that the Everton players have not entertained their directors to a banquet after the fashion of the Liverpool players, who regaled their directors? Perhaps “Shareholders” will interrogate the Everton players and let the public know their reply! We await it with breathless interest.
For the edification of “Shareholder” and his kind may I point out that the Everton F.C Company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, to all human seeing, permit the directors to do some wonderfully funny things, but sub-editing is NOT one of them! Happily, by its own promise to resign, its day are numbered.
The Everton club, as “Shareholder” knows, once boasted a prestige second to none in the kingdom. After last season’s deplorable inefficiency the time is now ripe for restoring its good name. that can only be accomplished by eradicating any who have failed. The personnel of the prospective new board is quite immaterial to me so long as its prove itself worthy of the high traditions of the club. It has been suggested that I display a distinct partiality to Mr. Cuff and Mr. Kirkwood. Well, as a shareholder, I own to the soft impeachment. I hold no “refreshing” brief for any office-bearer, but I can say without fear of contradiction that Danny Kirkwood was far and away the greatest director who ever adorned the Everton board, and Mr. Cuff the club’s greatest secretary. They found it brick, and turned it into marble. Look at the League table at the close of last season, and read from it the story. There are other points in “Shareholder’s” harangue which will have to be dealt with later owing to exigencies of space.
TAKE IT FROM VIN-
That Mr. Cuff has become an Everton shareholders again for the express purpose of attending the forthcoming annual meeting. There will be some fun. That the Everton circular is, in the candid opinion of many shareholders, a waste of good player. That Liverpool supporters are taking a keen interest in L. affaire Everton. That Wallasey and Bidston are ideal places for a ramble especially when summer took everyone unawares last week-end.
That the action of Messrs Banks, Green, Coffey and Dr. Baxter in refusing to sign the circular, is to be commended. That this is “growing” weather, and Everton’s shareholders like the best rhubarb are finding they are able to stick up for themselves. That the Hackins-hey meeting last Wednesday was sparsely attended. That people who live in glass houses should not throw stones.
VIN’S TOPICAL QUOTATIONS.
In Harry Weldon Parlance-“You Are Awful.”
“Shareholder” suggests that readers should ignore Vin’s comments. He might as well try to stem the flow of Niagara Falls as attempt to prevent Vin’s powerful X-rays being applied to the Everton case. -A Reader.

EVERTON AFFAIRS
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday, May 29, 1920
QUESTIONS A SHAREHOLDER WANTS TO PUT
“Spion Kop” writes;-
Dear Bee.- I congratulate you upon your action in allowing your columns to be used for the purpose of a full and free discussion on the merits and demerits of the present civil war in the Everton camp. Now that grievances have been ventilated, it is as well to look at the position from all points of view, and therefore I should be glad if you could find space for this lengthy epistle. May I at once say that I have no axe to grind on behalf of anyone, neither do I wish to say one word detrimental to any of the members of the Everton board. For each one of them I have the greatest respect, both as a representative of this great city’s commerce and as gentleman, but as directors of a football board I think they are not beyond criticism. The printed circular letter, which has been issued under the signature of five of the board only, to my mind, almost condemns the signatories. The Everton Football Club is a limited liability company, registered under the Companies Act, and the five signatories to the circular letter in question have now informed all the shareholders that, unless the shareholders elect to the board such other directors as may be approved by them, they will resign en bloc. By this they deny the right of the shareholders to voice their own opinions as to who may or may not be fit to act on the Everton board; whilst they by inference assert their own right to nominate the remainder of the board. Surely this is contrary to all commonsense, and can only mean that if the shareholders in their election return to the board Messrs Sawyer and Gibbons, they will not work with them. Truly a condition of affairs which would not be tolerated in any other public company. Will not the board admit that quality of play has been lacking in various departments? However, so that my vote may be correctly given, I suggest that the Everton board (through the chairman) reply to the following queries at the annual meeting before the election of directors;-

The circular letter concludes by stating that “it is difficult to build up.” Agreed. It will be impossible to build up if the policy of the signatories is to be dictatorial. The final words of the circular letters are;- “It is easy to break down.” Agreed again, but after careful consideration one is forced to the conclusion that the breaking-down process commenced at a date when Mr. Dan Kirkwood lost his seat on the board under circumstances which need not be detailed. This process was assisted by the deposition of Mr. E.A. Bainbridge, Dr. Whitford and others, all of whom thought no loss of time or trouble too great a sacrifice providing the interests of the Everton Club were involved. Further, in my view, demolition continued when the board dispensed with the services of their pilot, Mr. Will Cuff.
It is neither more reasonable nor more sporting to hold a pistol at the heads of the shareholders than it is for “The Syndicate” (whatever that term may cover) to demand disclosure of boardroom secrets.
I have read with interest the tilts at “Vin” in your issue of the 24th inst and they are most amusing (writes “Not a Shareholder”). -It has always appeared to me that “Vin” (who, I believe, but am not quite sure, is an Everton shareholder) has directed his criticisms not against the club so much as against the management thereof, and he has had ample justification. The club has throughout its entire career up to season 1919-20 held the singularly enviable record of never having been in danger of relegation-that they cannot now make this proud boast is to the standing disgrace of the present management. It is well known that such management is in the hands of a clique. If the shareholders are desirous of restoring the prestige and status of the club, they have the opportunity of taking a very important step in that direction by not only returning Messrs. Banks, Gibbons, and Sawyer, but also of expressing their views with regard to the conduct of the club’s business generally by passing a vote of censure on the directors. “Vin” has rendered a great service to the shareholders and supporters generally by his criticism, which have been very much to the point.

STUD MARKS
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, May 29, 1920
By Louis T. Kelly

REID RECOMMENDATION
The Liverpool Echo-Monday, May 31, 1920
Bee’s Notes
Reid, the Irishman, who has been signed by Everton F.C., is a versatile player. You may remember his operating at centre forward for the Irish League against the English League when Marshall McEwan “enjoyed himself” at Anfield last November. He has a telling shot, and is a centre of more than dash, but he has a hesitating habit that mars some of his work. If he will try more shots he must fare well. In conversation with an Irish friend before the inter-league game he warned me that Reid was “fearful of shooting yet a fearful shot” -an Irishism that contained first a suggestion of timidity, the last use of the word fearful meaning “terribly hard.” The match confirmed this;- Reid can shoot hard and fast. I hope he will not be timid to shoot when he starts with Everton.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 1920