NEW PLAYER FOR STOKE
London Daily News - Saturday 01 October 1904
Stoke have succeeded in arranging for the transfer of James Sheridan, inside right, from Everton. Sheridan stands five feet seven and a half inches, weighs 11st., and is 21 next April. During the time has played with Everton he has gained five International caps for Ireland. He is reputedly a good player, but with Everton has not had the opportunities his skill would seem to have justified. The amount of his transfer fee has not transpired, but it is considerable.

Played for Everton between 1900-04 before moving to Reading

ROBERT KELSO OF RENTON
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Saturday 01 October 1904
At the age of 17 he became a member of the "Village" senior team, and at 13 assisted in the winning of the Scottish cup. In so doing he displayed so commendable form that shortly afterwards the Scottish Association selected him to do battle on their behalf against both Ireland and Wales. Twelve months later the latter honour was repeated, but next season the S.F. Association went a step further, and not only conferred non him a third Welsh cap, but English one as well. in season 1887-88 he again occupied a place in the team against England, but a few months thereafter he shook the dust of his native country off his feet and crossed the Tweed. Newcastle was his destination, but after a short season amongst the Northumbarians he transfered his services to preston North End and in the Deepdale team he figured for a couple of terms at right back. In season 1891-92 he again moved his camp, migrating to Liverpool to the Everton Clubs. Leaving Everton along with John Hillman, the pair found their way to Dundee. While here Kelso received international distinction. This was against Ireland in 1898, and it is remarkable that first cap should have been received no fewer than 13 years previously. he played twice against England, three times against Wales, and twice against Ireland, and also gained a League cap against Ireland. On leaving Dundee, Kelso went to Bristol, and is now once more home in the county of his birth, still able to kick leather. As a player Kelso was of the reboust order, but contrary to what is usual with this class he was possessed of great skill, and it took a very clever forward indeed to get the better of him. While with Everton he became a full back, and in this position he seemed almost to be a football magnet. I have never seen a man who could play a back game, and a good one too, in less ground. In his latter days he was a wonderful sight as he stood up to the atatcks of the forwards. He old speed had deserted him, both knees were bandaged, and even his ankles were held together with specially constructed leather straps, but his pluck was indomitable, and his skill and experience unimpaired. These carried him through.

C. BROWN
Berkshire Chronicle - Saturday 01 October 1904
We are glad to see that the Reading directors are determined, if possible to improve their team in its weak spots. With this idea, C. Brown, who has been for the last two seasons with Tottenham Hotspur, and previously to that with Everton, has been signed as a right half-back. He is 23, and turns the scale at 11 ½ stone. The directors think they were fortunate to secure him, as two other teams were anxious to sign him. He will turn out for the Reserve team on Saturday. He comes with the highest credentials from the Tottenham directors. With Raisbeck fit and Brown playing, the half-back line should be more on an equality with previous seasons, and this will, in its turn, brace up the forwards.

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 01 October 1904
Everton are due in the North again this afternoon, to oppose Middlesbrough on the banks of the Tees. In the corresponding game twelve months ago Everton were well beaten by 3 goals to 1, and the year before that they also suffered defeat by a goal to nil. On past for, therefore, it would seem that another reverse is likely to occur to-day, but the Teesiders will have to make a brave show if they mean to avert defeat themselves. Booth and Abbott were unable to make the journey yesterday, but the latest capture- Ashworth-will appear at centre half, and Makepeace will again operate on the left wing in the intermediate line. If Sharp is able to play, the forwards will be at full strength, though Rankin shaped so well at Newcastle that, if given a trial, he will ably substitute the usual extreme right winger. Everton have not gained any points this season in the fixtures they have already decided as compared with those of last year, but they should make a start at Middlesbrough to-day, and bring one, if not two, points back with them.
Middlesbrough v Everton…JW Bailey, HS Bamlett, and J, Brunt.
The following team has been selected to represent Everton;- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Ashworth, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards. Reserve, Rankin. Kick off three p.m.
The Lancashire Combination Division A
Everton Reserve v. Stockport County, Goodison Park.
The following team has been selected to represent Everton;- Dent, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, Sheridan, Caldwell, Taylor, and Dilly, forwards.
JOHN SHERIDAN       
It is stated that James Sheridan, of the Everton Football Club, has been transferred to Stoke, for which club he will play to-day.

EVERTON PLAYER TRANSFERRED TO STOKE
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 01 October 1904
“Paddy” Sheridan, the Everton footballer, was on Thursday transferred to Stoke, and will play for the club against Notts Forest to-day. The amount of the transfer fee is not disclosed.
Middlesbrough v Everton.
League match at Middlesbrough; kick-off 3.0.
Everton;- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Ashworth, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards. Reserve, Rankin. Kick off three p.m.
Everton Reserve v. Stockport County, Goodison Park.
The Lancashire Combination match at Goodison Park; 3.30
Everton.- Dent, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, Sheridan, Caldwell, Taylor, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON v  MIDDLESBROUGH
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 01 October 1904
League Division 1
A CLEAN SLATE AT THE INTERVAL
The Everton team were again engaged in the north of England this afternoon, their fixture being on the banks of the Tees at Middlesbrough. Following their usual custom the players and directors left Liverpool yesterday afternoon and the tedium of the long journey was agreeably broken at Harrogate, where the night was agreeably parred. The fashionable Yorkshire Spa was left shortly after ten o’clock this morning, and Middlesbrough was reached at noon. The weather was beautifully fine, and great interest was manifested in the encounter. Although the home eleven have not been performing as well as their supporters could wish their prosects were considered bright in remembrance of the fact that last season they defeated the Goodison Park contingent by three clear goals. It has been hoped that both Sharp and Booth would be able to turn out for Everton, but this was found impossible, and the team had consequently to undergo some slight rearrangement. Rankin once more deputised for Sharp, and the half back line was arranged by putting Taylor in the centre position and playing Ashworth the ex-Manchester amateur, at right half back. The home team was at full strength, and in brilliant sunshine and before about 12,000 spectators they lined out as follows;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelly, backs; Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Middlesbrough.- Williamson, goal; Hogg and Blackett, backs; Aitken, Jones, and Davidson, halves; Gettins, Atherton, Brown, Cassidy, and Goodson, forwards.
Referee. Mr. Bailey, of Leicester.
The homesters lost the toss, and Brown set the ball in motion in the face of the sun and a fresh breeze. Middlesbrough at once ran down in capital style, but Taylor relieved and after some exchanges near the centre line Hardman and Settle broke away, but they were well checked by Hogg and the home right wing took up the running, only to be stopped in turn by Crelly. The initial stages of the game were of a very open order, both goals being visited in turn, but without any definite result being arrived at. A brilliant break away by Rankin forced Blackett to concede a corner, and from this there was a tremendously exciting bully in front of Williamson. The home defenders however, eventually succeeded in clearing their lines, and Atherton and Gettins dashed off at top speed. The latter centred beautifully, and after Cassidy had missed the ball, Davidson rushed up and put in a stinging shot, which went just wide of the mark. Following upon this there was seen some exceedingly clever passing on the part of the Everton forwards, who were much quicker on the ball than their opponents. They gradually made ground in fine combined order, and after Settle and McDermott had worked the ball to within a few yards of Williamson. Young completely nullified the effort by shooting high over the bar. Everton returned to the attack immediately, and Rankin sent in a glorious shot, which the home custodian was lucky to intercept and throw clear. So far the game had been of a fairly even character, for though the Evertonians were undeniably cleverer their opponents were by no means lacking in dash and determination. After a fairly long spell of mid-field work, in which neither had gained any material advantage. Taylor broke through and tried a long shot on his own account but the ball passed outside. More work in the open followed and them the home right got down in workmanlike fashion, but the movement ended in Aitken putting outside. The home front line then advanced on the left, and Balmer was forced to allow a corner but this was safely disposed of and the succeeding stages of the game were located in Middlesbro’ territory. Twice Hardman tried to work through, but he was held in check by Hogg, and then Young might have slipped through the backs, but he appeared to shirk the task, and Blackett cleared. The fortunes of the game were now going greatly in favour of Everton, and the three inside forwards, backed up by Taylor, subjected the home goal to a terrific bombardment, which was eventually relieved by a clever kick on the part of Aitken. Still the visitors persisted in their attention to Williamson and a beautifully shot was only just diverted from its course by Hogg who saved the situation at the expense of a corner. This was well cleared, and the spectators were treated to some more long kicking which proved of no value to either side. The Middlesbrough men eventually made ground on the right and a capital centre was headed away by Balmer at the expenses of a fruitless corner. A breakaway by Young came to nothing and then the home forwards made a most determined onslaught on the Everton goal. Brown dashed through, and passing out, both Gettins and Atherton put in swift shots which tested Scott’s abilities to the utmost. The Irishman, however, was equal to the call made upon him, and he cleared on both occasions very finely. As the interval approached the Evertonians made desperate efforts to gain a lead of their opponents, but a likely forward movement was spoiled by Rankin shooting yards wide of the mark. The next onslaught came from the left, Hardman putting in a fine centre, but Blackett cleared before McDermott could convert it into a goal. A few seconds later Everton left winger again got possession, and this time shot in with great force, but the home custodian managed to throw clear. A run down on the part of the Middlesbrough left looked extremely dangerous, but Cassidy’s final shot failed to find its mark. The Teesiders, however, immediately returned to the attack, and a corner was forced off Crelly. This was admirably placed, and Jones headed the ball right into the goal mouth, but Scott was not to be caught napping, and he saved splendidly. Hardman then broke along the wing in his customary tricky style, and he put in a clever shot, but without success, and at half-time the scored stood- Middlesbrough nil, Everton Nil.
DEFEAT OF EVERTON
On crossing over the home centre forward rushed down straight from the centre line, and Crelly, mistaking the situation, looked desperate when Balmer rushed to the rescue and cleared. Then the Evertonians got going in great style, and a shot from Rankin was very luckily diverted by Blackett. From the ensuing corner McDermott and Taylor both tried to force the ball into the net, but the homesters packed their goal, and the pressure was eventually relieved. After this both ends were visited in rapid succession, and the next item of interest was a fine run down by Goodson, who lost possession just as he was about to shoot. Everton took up the attack and another corner was forced. From this McDermott was given a fine opening, but he missed it. A free kick to the visitors gave them a further chance, and Ashworth, with a swift low shot, nearly beat the home custodian. The home forwards pressed strongly in their turn, and the succeeding stages were contested amid great excitement, which found vent in terrific cheering when Gettins scored with a swift ground shot.
Final result Middlesbrough 1 goal, Everton Nil.
Middlesbrough did all the scoring last season, finding the net three times while Everton failed.

EVERTON v  STOCKPORT COUNTY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 01 October 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV A
Great interest manifested itself in this match at Goodison Park, this afternoon, and beautiful weather favoured the fixture. There were about 5,000 present when the following teams faced each other;-
Everton.- Dent, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, Jones, Caldwell, Taylor, and Dilly, forwards.
Stockport.- Butler, goal; Heywood and Walers, backs; Stuart, Hall, and Codling, half-backs; Price, Birtleton, Green, Pass, and Bardsley, forwards.
Everton started, and at the outset pressed and forced a corner. Nothing came of this, but the home team kept up the attack, and Butler saved nicely from Jones and Dilly. The last-named the centred splendidly, but both Roberts and Jones mulled an excellent chance when in front of an open goal. The County front rank got away, and then Price thrice hit the side of the net. Balmer relieved the pressure and Everton were again conspicuous, but the visitors’ defence was superb. A free kick to the County availed them nothing but another foul in their favour was the means of enabling Stockport to assume the whip hand for some time, Wildman bringing off some clever clearance. Hall then called upon Dent to save a long shot. The County maintained the pressure, but erratic play in front of goal spoiled their efforts. Everton now took up the attack, but were pulled up for offside play, and a few minutes later Stockport opened the scoring in a somewhat easy fashion. Dent, in taking a goal kick, shot the leather to the toe of Green, who at once availed himself of a fine opportunity, and from a long range fired the ball into the net. Everton again attacked and forced a couple of fruitless corners. Shortly after this the County men almost augmented their score. The Blues then pressed, and Dilly scored, but for some informality the referee disallowed the point. Everton made strenuous endeavours to equalise, but without result.
Half-time, County 1 goal, Everton 0.

TOO MUCH FOR EVERTON.
London Daily News - Monday 03 October 1904
A finely contested game at Middlesbrough resulted in a victory for the home side by one goal to nil. Middlesbrough dropped Smith, Astley, and Roberts for Jones, Cassidy, and Goodson; and Everton had Ashworth centre half instead Booth. During the opening half the exchanges were fairly even, the visitors having, perhaps, rather the best of matters. The home defence was sound, however, and at the interval nothing had been done. The solitary goal of the match came as the result some clever combined work by Brown and Atherton, an opening being made by Getting, who beat Crelly and shot into the net.

MIDDLESBROUGH 1 EVERTON 0
October 3, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Everton played the first of the season's engagements with the northern club at Middlesbrough on Saturday, and owing to injuries were without the services of Booth, Abbott, and Sharp, S.B.Ashworth, however made his first appearance in the team, Taylor going centre half. The other places were filled by Rankin and Makepeace. Middlesbrough were strongly represented, the teams being as follows: - Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Middlesbrough: - Williamson. Goal, Hogg, and Blackett backs, Aitkens, Jones and Davidson, half-backs, Gettins, Atherton Brown, Cassidy, and Goodson forwards. Referee Mr. Bailey (Lancaster) Brown opened the play for Middlesbrough, but Everton who had a strong sun at their backs, at once got away, but found in Hogg a ready defender. The home centre them led on a strong movement which looked like bringing a tangible point, when Taylor nipped in and gave to Settle, who conjunction with Hardman, made tracks to the home end. The latter put well in, and Blackett in clearing gave a corner kick, which, however, brought no advantage. The Everton forwards were at this juncture having much the best of the play, but they could not get in a parting shot, and then followed a dangerous rush by the home van. All the forwards were concerned in this movement, and Ashworth charged down a splendid drive from Davidson. Everton attacked and Hardman was just about to shoot when Hogg very unfairly charged him, but the free kick came to nothing. A further raid unfortunately ended in Taylor being penalised, and by gradual stages the play veered to the Everton half of the field. Rankin was next prominent with a run along the right and a capital shot at goal, but Williamson gathered the ball well, and then followed some smart work between the home half-backs and forwards, which resulted in the Everton backs being kept busy for some little time. A breakaway, in which Settle played a prominent part, came to nothing, and following a hugh clearance by Blackett the Middlesbrough quintet raced away in fine line, but their only rewards were a couple of corner kicks to both of which, Taylor attended. The Everton left wing pair were again prominent, but shooting was rare, though on one occasion a forward pass from Settle to Young called out Williamson. Brillaint forward play by Everton prevailed for some time. Hardman and Settle being mostly concerned, but the former came in for some rough gruelling by the burly Hogg. Coming once again the winger put in a brilliant shot, which would certainly have found its billets had not Hogg, more by good luck than management, got his leg in the way and diverted it besides the post. The corner kick came to nothing. But following a brief space at the visitors end the Evertonians once more monopolised the bulk of the play, though as before neither Blackett nor Hogg stopped at anything to keep them out. Everton's long spell of pressure was broken by a smart bit of combination by the home team right wing pair forcing a corner. Balmer and Crelly saved the situation subjected the visitors goal to a very severe pressure, but some fine defensive work. Atherton, but was palpably offside put returning again Brown in possession after smart play. A long sprint by Rankin changed the venue but his shot was not in keeping with his run, for a poor attempt was made to find the net, and as equally feeble attempt came from Young a moment later. Then was followed by a brilliant shot from Hardman and a fine save by the custodian. The closing stages of the first half found Everton pressing without result. Half-time Middlesbrough nil, Everton nil. On resuming the Evertonians had to face the breeze and sun. In the first minute Crelly miskicked and almost let in Brown, but Balmer came to the rescue and a clearance was effected. Danger averted, the visitors fairly pulled themselves together, and a desperate attack was made upon the home goal. On one occasion Rankin, when shooting strongly from short range, drove hard against Blackett, forcing a corner, and directly afterwards an effort from McDermott was charged down in the goalmouth. The home defence eventually prevailed, and by a series of short passing movement's play was taken to the other end, where Brown passed to Gettins for the latter to run through and score a fine goal. After this Everton pressed, and a well placed corner kick by Hardman was luckily got away by Blackett, though a moment later Williamson was almost beaten by a swift, low shot from Ashworth. The last named player had been putting in much good work, and just now was deeding McDermott and Ramkin repeatedly, but as before the home defenders were in one of their most stubborn moods. On two occasions Settle nearly got through, but Hogg cleared, and although Everton pressed in the closing stages, they failed to get on terms. Middlesbrough 1, Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 1
October 3, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 5)
This game was played at Goodison Park, before 5,000 people. Green scored for the visitor before the interval, and this proved to be the winning point. Everton played a very poor game all through, and were deservedly beaten. Everton: - Dent, goal, Wildman and R.Balmer backs Hanlin T.C.Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Roberts, A.N.Other, Cadwell, McAdam and Dilly forwards.

A SHOCK FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 03 October 1904
A dull and uninteresting game was seen at Goodison Park between the Everton second string and Stockport County.  The visitors scored the only goal of the match before the interval.  Green being responsible for the point.  In the front line Everton shaped wretchedly, there being an utter lack of combined effort.  For the visitors, Green and Bardsley were the most prominent forwards, and of the backs, Heywood and Butler accomplished some creditable work.  Everton are by no means playing like champions, and judging them from their form this season they will have to relinquish the title. 

Jack Played for Everton Season 1898-99 Season

GOAL TOO GOOD FOR EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 03 October 1904
By Vulcan.
Middlesbrough have fared so indifferently in their League engagements that success, even on their own ground at Ayresome Park against the clever Everton team was not anticipated, and to win by the only goal obtained in a well fought match caused their previous shortcomings to be forgotten by their supporters. It is not the first time Everton have fallen at Middleborough. Last season they went under by three goals to none, and they were previously beaten as on Saturday by one goal to none. After the debacle at Derby the Middlesbrough directorate made a change in the team, leaving out Dave Smith and Roberts and bringing back into their old positions Jones at centre half and Goodson as outside left. Jones was supposed to have completely recovered from the injury to his ankle in the Sheffield Wednesday match a month ago, although twice during the game he went limping about after a slight collision with an opponent, but Goodson, who has been out of the team for twelve months, seems to have thoroughly recuperated and to have become as promising before. There was a crowd of 10.000 persons when Middlesbrough kicked off. The first quarter of an hour's play was almost entirely in favour of the home players, but the visitors’ goal in that period was once in danger. Gettins put in a capital centre, which Brown tried to head in but missed, and the leather going to Cassidy, the latter failed to gather the ball, which was smartly secured and shot in by Goodson. Scott managed cleverly to avert what looked like becoming a goal. Everson got away, and Taylor and Rankin each gave Williamson shots which he had no sooner cleared than the Middiesbrough defence was again engaged. McDermott had three chances, but he sent over the bar the first time. Next, from a free kick near the penalty area, he shot hard against Jones, and then he sent into the hands of Williamson. The remainder of the first half was principally noticeable for some good runs by Hardman and Rankin, who, however, seldom got pass Hogg and  Blackett, and for capital goal keeping by Scott, who had to deal with a few dazzling shots from Brown, Gettins, and Jones. The game, which had been fairly fast in the first half, was Improved in regard to pace after the resumption by the visitors. Rankin and Settle had chances, which they missed.  Middlesbrough broke away, and after a wide shot by Gettins, Brown got possession. He pasted on to Atherton, and the latter, after one his usually pretty dribbles, put Gettins in possession. The latter, with both backs beaten, drove a beauty into the net from dozen yards’ range.  Scott tried to reach the ball but failed, and it is only fair to him to say that it would have beaten any goalkeeper. Although Everton were sharper on the ball and more alert generally they were very seldom dangerous. Williamson was not tested more than half-a-dozen times in the first half, and in the second portion not more than twice. All their forwards played well, particularly Hardman and Rankin. Hardman received the ball in the finest style and centred grandly, and Rankin the opposite wing was conspicuous for pace and passing. Settle did not show his usual cleverness, for Hogg was a thorn in his fresh.  The fault of the visiting forwards seemed to be a want of effectiveness and straight shooting when they got anywhere near the home goal.  The half-backs and backs played a sound game.  Scott was all that could be desired as custodian.  He was better with his hands than his feet, and many of his saves were remarkably fine. 
Middlesbrough stayed better than Everton, and the arranged team seems likely, with a little more practice together, to become awkward customers to tackle on their own pitch by even the very best teams. There is room for improvement amongst the forwards, the best of whom were Gettins, Brown, Atherton, and Goodson. Although the middle pair were closely watched and were not afforded many opportunities.  Goodson promises to develop into what Middlesbrough has long wanted, a really good outside left.  He quickly got into his stride on obtaining possession, and he centred fairly well.  Cassidy has played better.  The half backs formed a capital trio, Jones being the most conspicuous.  Hogg and Blackett were splendid backs, particularly Hogg, who was the best man on the field in his position.  Blackett’s long clean kicking proved exceedingly serviceable.  Williamson in goal made some magnificent saves in the first half.  After the interval he was seldom troubled.  Middlesbrough; Williamson; Hogg, and Blackett; Aitkin, Jones, and Davidson; Gettins, Atherton, Brown, Cassidy, and Goodson.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; Mr. J.W. Bailey, Leicester. 

EVERTON REVIEW
October 3, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
In losing at Middlesbrough on Saturday, Everton only bore out previous experiences. Including the game under notice, they have on three occasions participated in league encounters on the ground of the northern club and it is rather remarkable that they have not yet succeeded in scoring even a goal against the Teessiders. Their record certainly does not afford pleasant reading seeing that they have been defeated by 1-0, 3-0, and now again 1-0. There is nothing in the nature of the ground itself to account for this lack of success, and apparently the cause is to be found in that inexplicable fatality which appears to follow certain teams when figuring on certain grounds. While for the third time this season Everton succumbed away from home, it is worthy of note that on each occasion an odd goal has sufficed to gave the maximum points to their opponents. Even admitting the strenuous work of the home side, the Goodison Park eleven need not have left both points behind them had their force been in anything like decent form when in front of goal. Indeed, the keynotes of the defeat was furnished during the first half, when with the sun and the wind in their favour, more than one glorious chance of placing the ball in the net was it, some unaccountable fashion thrown away. Probably the fact that Middlesbrough had not opened the season in a manner to please their supporters had not a little to do with the extra effort they put forth to regain favour. At the same time, it was in no small measures owing to Everton's inability to turn to advantage numerous openings which occurred during the first half of the game that buoyed up the Middlesbrough side and eventually led to victory, which was as pleasing to the northern club as it was disappointing to Everton. Once again the Evertonians were handicapped by the absence of such men as Sharp, Booth, and Abbott; but against this they enjoyed the services of their latest amateur recruit S.B.Ashworth, who, it must be said, made a distinctly creditable debut with the club of his adoption. With the amateur filling the right half position, the ubiquitous Taylor was called upon to fill the position which Tom Booth for several seasons past has made his own. In this unaccustomed role the veteran rather surprised those who know his work best by the aptitude, which he displayed and by the restraint he placed upon himself in keeping to his own position. Undoubtedly he did capital work, and with an improved exhibition by Makepeace, the half-back line could in no wise be blamed for Everton's defeat. Neither could the backs of the goalkeeper come under the ban of adverse criticism, for their work throughout was neatly and cleverly accomplished. As has been indicated, what blame there was attached to the forward line. There was not that combination, nor even individual efforts which one expects from forward of the ability possessed by those now serving the Everton club. Hardman was far and away the best of the line, and it was a pity that his skilful and lion hearted efforts were not supplemented by his colleagues. He had a particularly vigorous customer to deal with in Hogg but nothing daunted, he was always after the ball, and he had the satisfaction of troubling Williamson almost as much as his four colleagues put together. Rankin and McDermott were by no means so effective a wing as in the last away match at Newcastle. At times they were clever enough, but there was wanting just that little extra effort which is all important in these days of fierce League competition. Young was evidently off colour for he failed not only to utilise chances, which came his way, but to render that assistance to his wings which one reasonably expects from a class centre forward. There was nothing of a scientific character about the play of Middlesbrough; they rely almost entirely upon dash and vigour and, although there was a suspicion of offside about the goal which gave then the victory. On the general run of the game one could not begrudge them their success.

Sketch of Edgar Chadwick now of Blackpool

MIDDLESBROUGH v  EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 03 October 1904
At Middlesbrough before 12,000 spectators, in fine weather. The home club dropped Smith, Astley and Roberts for Jones, Cassidy, and Goodson. Everton had Ashworth at right half, while Taylor occupied Booth’s position. Play was not of a very interesting character, but there was little to choose between the teams, both being weak in shooting. Atherton missed an open goal, and just before the interval Scott saved brilliantly from Jones. Half-time; Middlesbrough nil, Everton nil.
On crossing over, the visitors were for a few minutes aggressive, Taylor, the centre half, being the pivot upon which the attacking forwards rested. Capital work by Blackett and Hogg- the latter being far away the best man on the field- wore down the Everton attack, and to the close play was confined to the Everton quarters. Gettins scoring the only goal from a pass by Atherton. Result;- Middlesbrough 1, Everton 0
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelly, backs; Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Middlesbrough.- Williamson, goal; Hogg and Blackett, backs; Aitken, Jones, and Davidson, halves; Gettins, Atherton, Brown, Cassidy, and Goodson, forwards.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 03 October 1904
Everton undertook the tedious journey to Middlesbrough only to return unrewarded and pointless. This in itself is bad enough, but candour compels the admission that they got as much as they deserved. The game altogether was of very mediocre character-suggestive more of Second League form than anything else. The crudities of the play were painfully apparent in the Everton forward line, which never shaped really well, and keenly disappointed those who had ventured from the Mersey to the Tees to witness the encounter. The only saving grace was the form displayed by the defence. With this nobody could cavil, but it should be remembered that progress in the League tourney cannot be made by defensive tactics alone. The foregoing criticism may at first blush appear somewhat severe, but it is undoubtedly deserved. The home team in the first half were as inept as their opponents, but they made amends in the second portion of the game, and having once scored, showed striking superior form. It is quite a moot point whether the goal scored by Goodson was off-side or not, but, apart from this, the Middlesbrough men thoroughly deserved their victory. As we have said, the Everton forwards played wretchedly. Young being perhaps the worst offender. The half back line, on the other hand, gave a capital display, and that general utility man, honest “Jock” Taylor, who figured in the centre position, was the best player on the field. The ex-Manchester amateur, Ashworth created a very favourable impression, and Makepeace further showed what a useful man he is. Too much praise cannot be given to the backs, who displayed splendid judgement, and in the goal Scott once again demonstrated his right to be recognised as a class custodian. The Middlesbrough team may be regarded as mainly remarkable for their weight. Their forwards might easily have been better, and the halves were more than once at fault, but they have a capital pair of backs in Hogg and Blackett.

THE EVERTON v  DARWEN CUP TIE
Manchester Evening News - Thursday 06 October 1904
The directors of the Everton Football Club have decided to play their reserve team in the match against Darwen on Monday next in the first round of the Lancashire Cup competition.
Manchester United v Everton Reserve
The Lancashire Combination match to be played at Manchester on Saturday between the United Reserve and Everton, the following side has been selected to play for the visitors;-
Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, McAdam, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.

H.B. SINGLETON
Hastings and St Leonards Observer - Saturday 08 October 1904
H.B. Singleton, (Forward) -Born 1880. Height, 5ft 9ins, Weight, 12st 3lbs, Joined Grimsby from Everton, for 1902-03 season. Last season New Brompton.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 08 October 1904
To-day’s football programme provides a puzzle. Almost all the contests promise to be most evenly contested, and excellent sport should result. Locally there should not be much fear about Everton, who are receiving Wolverhampton Wanderers, had the full first team been available. With Booth and Abbott away, the Everton supporters will not feel confident by any means that two points will be forthcoming. Ashworth gave such a creditable show at Middlesbrough that he is kept in the team, and Taylor moves into centre half, while Makepeace complete the lines. Otherwise the team is as usually constituted. The Wanderers hold a very respectable position on the ladder of fame, being equal on points to Preston North End, who are second, and likely to be moved through their tussle with Manchester City. The Wolves have only twice won against Everton on the latter’s enclosure since 1888, and have drawn two games.
Everton v Wolverhampton Wanderers
At Goodison Park; kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Everton v Manchester United Reserve
At Manchester; Exchange station 1.40; kick-off 3.15;
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, McAdam, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.
Monday
Everton v Darwen
(Lancashire Cup tie)
At Goodison Park; kick-off 4.15
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 08 October 1904
The attraction at Everton this afternoon is a visit from Wolverhampton Wanderers, the club that so signally upset the calculations of Everton in a final tie for the English Cup at Fallowfield. Seldom have the Midlanders proved successful at Goodison Park, their nearest approach to a victory being five years ago, when they shared the honours of a drawn game, neither side scoring. Last season the Wolves met Everton at a time when the latter were showing their best form, namely, at Easter, and they suffered defeat by two clear goals. On comparative form the issue should be safe in the keeping of the home players, and as Sharp will once more be able to take the field, the attack, which has been the weak spot in recent matches, should be strengthened.
Everton v Wolverhampton Wanderers. F. Brunt, W. Atherton and A. Briggs.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Manchester United Reserve v Everton Reserve, Clayton, Manchester
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, McAdam, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.
Monday

A SCOT FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 08 October 1904
INSIDE LEFT FROM THE HAMILTON ACADEMICALS
Everton F.C have suffered through injuries to their first team men, and found, when the reserves were called upon to fill vacancies that they were not quite up to the standard required of them; therefore the club set about searching for new talent. Scotland has provided the first. He is one William McLoughlin, age twenty four, weight 11 1/2 stone. He comes from the Hamilton Academicals as an inside left of ability. The Academicals were this season promoted to the senior division of the Scottish League, having last season won the second division championship.

EVERTON v  WOLVERHAMPTON W
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 08 October 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
EVERTON EARLY AGGRESSIVE
YOUNG FINDS THE NET
SETTLE ADDS A SECOND
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Delightful weather favoured the visit of the Wolverhampton Wanderers to the Goodison Park enclosure to-day. The Wolves have more often than not fallen victims to the prowess of the Evertonians in the past, and, despite the altered half back line of the Blues, it was only a reasonable anticipation on the part of their supporters that a couple of points would be secured. The Wolves, it may be mentioned, occupy a very respectable position, though it is well-known that they rely on local talent. Everton’s front was strengthened by the reappearance of Sharp, whose absence has been severely felt of late. S.B. Ashworth appeared in the half back line for the first time, and his inclusion was of paramount importance. The turf was in fine condition, and 15,000 spectators were present at the commencement. The following were the teams;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelly, backs; S,B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H. Hardman, forwards.
Wolverhampton Wanderers.- Baddeley, goal; Jones and Betteley, backs; Whitehouse, Walker, and Ellis, half-backs; Baynam, Heywood, Woolridge, Smith, and Miller, forwards. Young kicked off, facing a fair breeze, and the game was at once carried into the Wolves’ quarters, Hardman getting in a very good centre, which Baddeley kept out at great effort, and then Sharp put the ball over the goal. Another fine effort came from Hardman, but with no success; and then the Wolves attacked, but were soon repulsed. Everton again attacked spiritedly, but failed to make any impression on the Wolves’ defence. The visitors broke away, and a centre from Miller ended in Crelly conceding a corner, which proved barren. After an struggle in front of the Everton goal, Young slipped through his men, and passed out to Sharp, but when the Evertonians were closing in Betteley dashed forward, and, with a lucky kick, completely broke up the attack. Everton continued to exert pressure at close quarters, but found a very solid defence opposed to them, and for a time they were repeatedly denied an opening. The Everton vanguard worked strenuously and at last a very rapid advance was made on the left, when Sharp and McDermott put in excellent work. Betteley and Walker made a big effort to check the Everton right, but too late, and their advance only provided an opening for Young, who with a very well-directed shot netted the leather after only seven minutes’ play. This success was well worked for, as Everton’s attack was very clean and compact. On the restart operations slowed down for some little time, and the game centred in midfield, neither set of forwards showing in midfield, neither set of forwards showing to very much advantage. Then the game was temporarily suspended, owing to an injury to Woolridge. Some wonderfully close play by Taylor, and Makepeace enabled the Everton front rank to make frequent inroads into the Wolverhampton lines, but positively ill-luck appeared to dog the efforts of the homesters. McDermott was completely shut in when he was getting very nicely placed, and then Settle had a shot, the ball going off the side of his foot and sliding outside. Very able passing again enabled the homesters to invade the visitors’ quarters, and a pretty pass went from Settle to Hardman, who was pronounced off-side. More passing was seen, in which Sharp and his partner were prominent, but all to no purpose, Settle being disappointed at the finish and Betterley kicking out of the goal mouth. The Wolves now made a short visit to Everton territory, but only to get a warm reception from Everton’s halves who twisted them about to some purpose. Hardman was soon away with the leather, but too closely attended by Whitehouse, who took the leather and shot back to his custodian. Several efforts followed from Everton, but the Wolves’ defence prevailed. Betteley made another fine clearance when Everton’s front was advancing in line. The Wolves suddenly appeared intent on scoring, both of their wings making spirited incursions, and on one occasion Hayward missed a palpable opening by kicking wide when well adjacent to Scott. Everton made a couple of moves on their right, but there was not much spirit until Settle got a nice pass and almost found the net with a swift shot across the posts. A short struggle in midfield ended in favour of the Everton half backs. Ashworth getting the ball away to the right. The leather was then crossed, and Hardman, Settle, and Young became particularly busy, but to no purpose. Jones boring his way in and clearing handsomely. Positively brilliant passing by the Everton men brought the ball back, and then Hardman gave to Young, who shot by the side of the post. Hardman then gained a corner, which came off Jones; but Everton gained nothing from the kick. Suddenly the Wolves broke away and swarmed in front of the Everton goal. Annis finishing a very spirited move by shooting over the crossbar. After Hardman ‘s corner kick had been disposed of the leather once more came across to his wing, where Young and Taylor joined in successfully in tackling the Wanderers’ halves, Young in midfield threaded his way through and sent up a long pass on the right wing, which provided a grand opportunity for Sharp, who was, however, closely attended by Whitehouse. Sharp easily beat the Wolverhampton half, and took the leather across the goalmouth, where Settle lay in waiting, and, getting the side of his foot to the ball, easily put it past Woolridge into the net. This movement from beginning to end was never really checked, and was a capital opposition of accurate passing and complete understanding between all the Everton players concerned. Makepeace stopped the Wolves right wingers, and then Taylor, by means of splendid play, completely shattered the hopes of Wooldridge and passed forward to Young, who raced away and passed out to Sharp, whose dash along the touchline was very fine. At the finish of a long run Sharp centred to Young who shot over the crossbar. A dash by the Wolves was finished by Heywood shooting over, and then passing by Young, McDermott and Taylor carried the ball to the Wolves’ quarter-line. The leather was then passed back to Taylor, who tried a long shot, but failed to find the mark. Still pressing, Crelly had a free kick, and shortly afterwards Settle shot across the goalmouth. The Wolves made a short attack without success, and then half-time came, the score being 2 goals to nil.
SETTLE HIMSELF AGAIN
WOLVES DISHEARTENED
BADDLEY’S FINE CUSTODIANSHIP
WOLVES SHOOT WELL
Restarting after the interval several minutes were put to waste in rather adroit manoeuvres in midfield, which one back in favour of the Wolves. Although a serious attack was made on Scott’s charge, Balmer then put Everton on the attack, but quite failed to press it home until a very hot shot from Young gave Wooldridge an armful, which he got rid of coolly enough, although surrounded by Evertonians. The Wolves however, did not get away until Settle had passed to Young, who put the ball behind. Crelly then had to kick out from an incursion on the visitors’ left. It was, not, however, a very spirit invasion. Effective play by Ashworth and Taylor, which led to passing all along the line, but Jones kept the home contingent out, Crelly boring his way in at the finish and shooting over the crossbar. The visitors got down, and, owing to weak kicking by Balmer, nearly became dangerous; but first Taylor and then Crelly came to the rescue. Taylor handed within the penalty area. Wooldridge scored a goal for the Wolves. Immediately on restarting Settle was brought down within the Wolves’ penalty area, and he took the penalty kick, which was splendidly saved by Baddeley and although further pressure came from the Wolves right the wingers were at last beaten back. A free kick against Young paved the way for a general attack by Wolverhampton, but suddenly the ball was passed back to Sharp, who was sandwiched but Settle got the ball and made a bold bid for goal. A great rush was then made by the Wolves, and Miller succeeded in centring very prettily, Woolridge dashing in at the finish and making a hurried shot, which he placed over the goal. Shortly afterwards the ball was crossed to Sharp, who raced off and nearly scored, but appeared to strain his leg during the effort.
Final Result Everton 2 goals, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 goal.
Everton defeated the Wolves by 2 goals to nil at Goodison Park last season.

EVERTON 2 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 1
October 10, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Jimmy Settle penalty kick, saved by Badderley
The visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers to Goodison-park on Saturday attracted a “gate” of over 15,000 spectators, the weather being fine until well on in the second half, Everton were still without the services of Booth and Abbott, but Sharp was able to resume his position at outside right, with S.B.Ashworth made his first appearance for Everton at Goodison Park. The Wolves were at full strength, the teams being as follows: - Everton: - Scott goals, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs S.B.Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers: - Baddeley, goal, Jones and Batteley, backs, Whitehouse, Walker and Annis, half-backs, Baynam, Haywood, Woolridge, Smith, and Miller, forwards. The Wolves had forsaken their own familiar colours of old gold and black stripes, and appeared in white jerseys, and black knickers. Young kicked off with the sun at the backs of the Everton players. Right from the start the Everton left wing was prominent, and by exceedingly tricky play Hardman worked his way past several opponents, and called upon Baddeley to fist away a dangerous centre. The smart passing of the Everton forwards pleased the crowd immensely, and the Wolves defence had a very anxious time. On one occasion Battely miskicked, but he managed to recover himself in time, and thus stayed off disaster. A moment later the same player rendered his side great services in dealing with another dangerous attack by the Everton right wing. The Wolves then broke away, and from a centre by Miller, Crelly conceded a corner, which however, came to nothing. Makepeace presented an opening to Young, with disregarding appeals for off-side, ran along and gave Baddeley no chance, the ball sailing into the net just under the bar. This success was well deserved, and it seemed to inspire the Evertonians for immediately afterwards Young called upon Baddeley, who cleverly succeeded in diverting a hot shot over the bar at the expense of a fruitless corner. Walker was winded, but soon resumed, and play continued for the most part in the Wolves half. Young and Settle were applauded for very pretty passing, but, as with previous movements, it led to nothing tangible. The Wolves then came down, but the incursion had no effect. A moment later Crelly distinguished himself by a brilliant clearance, and then the game was temporarily suspended though Smith being winded. The Everton forwards were now looking dangerous, but the Wolves' right back met the ball and returned it to midfield. The persistency of the Evertonians was very pronounced, and at this period they were giving their opponents plenty to do, as Settle shot finely but without success. Brilliant passing was again seen amongst the home forwards, the move resulting in a corner, which, however, was fruitless. The ball was sent in at long range, but it again went wide. As a result of this spell of hard work Everton were eventually rewarded. Young passed out to Sharp, who running round one of the Wolves backs, gave to Settle, who scored a beauty, the efforts being loudly cheered. A minute later Baddeley had a handful from Ashworth, the custodian just managed to keep it out. The Wolves with a spurt got near the Everton goal, where Annis put over, after which the “Blues and Whites” were on the aggressive, and Young after a smart movement shot through, but unfortunately was ruled off-side. This was succeeded almost immediately by a good shot by Young. The Wolves at length broke away, but their efforts were unrewarded. Everton were playing a fine game, and it may be said without hesitation that the attack was about the best which, has been sent at Goodison-park this season. Young next made an attempt from long range, but the ball went over. Settle had a grand chance with a clear opening, but shot wide. Half-time Everton 2, goals Wolves nil.
On resuming the Wolves attacked, but owing to some good clearances by the home backs their efforts were nullified, Jones, the right Wolverhampton back, shone conspicuously by some safe kicking on two occasions. The first thing of excitement in this half, was a really beautiful shot by Young, which Baddeley saved in a manner equally brilliant. Both sides were putting in their best, and the play was of a good class. Hardman was next conspicuous with a shot. Baddeley having to fist out, after which Whitehouse was penalised for charging Hardman unfairly, and a free kick was given, but resulted in nothing. One of the Wolverhampton halves was injured, and retired temporarily from the field of play. At this point there was a heavy shower of rain. Everton were passing most and the Wolves citadel barely missed disaster from a rasping shot by Settle, whilst a minute later Hardman called upon Baddeley. The visitors working gradually down made a raid on the home goal, and Miller sent in, but Scott fisted away. The clever passing abilities of the Evertonians again asserted themselves, and the Wolverhampton goal was again attacked. Everton had the best of the play, but Woolridge scored for Wanderers from a Penalty kick , given against Taylor for Handling. Everton were also awarded a penalty kick , after Settle, was brought down, but Baddeley saved Settle's shot, result Everton 2, Wolverhampton 1.

EVERTON AT THEIR BEST.
Athletic News - Monday 10 October 1904
In their match with Wolverhampton the Everton players gave one of their most brilliant expositions, and a finer display of football has not been seen in Liverpool for some considerable time. For once in a way the forwards were all in the same humour, and they moved with a smoothness and precision that was exhilarating to witness.  Young played his best game of the season, and after his two previous exhibitions the change came as a delightful surprise. The development of Makepeace is one of the most pleasing features to chronicle. He showed great judgment against the “Wolves,” and is thoroughly justifying his inclusion in the League eleven, to such an extent indeed that when it comes to a question of considering the claims of the present injured players it will be difficult to come to a decision.

EVERTON DOWN AGAIN
Athletic News - Monday 10 October 1904
Manchester United followed up their victory over Blackburn by beating the reserves of Everton on the Clayton enclosure.  When the game was commenced some 5,000 people had assembled, and saw the United score once in the initial half.  In the second portion Referee Fletcher awarded two penalty kicks in succession to the United.  Duckworth, the right half was entrusted with the kicks, but was only able to score from the second, and the final score was 2-1 for the United, McAdam scoring for the visitors just on time. 

BRILLIANT DISPLAY BY EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 10 October 1904
By Junius
It may appear somewhat curious to furnish such a headline to a game, wherein the victors simply prevailed by the narrow margin of a goal, but despite the fact that Everton only beat Wolverhampton Wanderers by 2 goals to 1. There can be no gain-saying the fact that had the “Blues” won by treble, or even quadruple this score, their superiority would not have been over-represented. Everton have earned the reputation of being an inconsistent team. There could, however, be no mistaking the excellence of their work against the “Wolves.” and their form in this match reminded me forcibly of their displays last Easter, when they overthrew Liverpool, the “Wolves,” and Sheffield Wednesday within four days. From forward to rear division there was not a weak spot, and the movements were at times so intricate that the visiting defenders were completely hood-winked by the sparkling character of the Everton onslaughts. Neither could the narrow nature of their success be wholly attributed to indifferent shooting, for taken all round the work near goal was skillful enough to have made the final figures more representative of the character of the play. But there was one, Baddeley, guarding the visitors’ citadel, and the sequel it is unnecessary to relate. Both teams were strongly represented as possible, and Everton started with a dazzling sun at their backs, which must have harassed the opposition. Straight from the commencement the home forwards showed that their intentions were strictly honourable, and from a lovely pass by Makepeace, Young dashed in, what time some of his opponents were clamouring for off-side, and scored with a fast rising ball. Occasionally breaking away, the Wanderers caused some uneasiness, but the finishing touches of Wooldridge and his comrades were weak, and Scott was seldom in difficulties. On the other hand, Baddeley had to exercise consummate judgment in dealing with further shots from Young, and eventually after combined movement by Haywood and Baynam the ball came out to Young, who flashed it across to Sharp, and trouble followed. The extreme winger easily raced round Betteley, and placing beautifully. Settle steered into the net. Then came a glorious chance to the “Wolves.’' Scott dropped the ball, in dealing with another right wing effort, and Annis had the goal to himself, but he skied the ball. To the interval Everton played perfect football, but Baddeley and his backs prevented further scoring. Similarly in the second half Everton were the masters, and Sharp, after running close in, appeared to have the goal at his mercy, but the International keeper dropped on his knees and saved. In another rousing rush Hardman got possession just as the custodian came out, but he lifted over the bar, and at the same time caught Baddeley’s wrist with his foot, which necessitated a slight stoppage. The keenest excitement came in the last five minutes, and two penalty kicks were awarded. From a sudden rush on the Wanderers’ right wing Taylor handled, and Wooldridge scored. Away went Everton, and Settle was tripped near goal: result, another penalty: but no score, for Settle shot against Baddeley. In every department of the team Everton seemed to have absolute control of the ball, and was simply delightful to witness their maneuvers. Recently the inside forwards have been prone to dalliance, and inclined to indulge in satiety of finesse, but such a fault could not be laid to their charge in this match. Young kept his wings moving splendidly, dealing out first to the speedy Sharp and then the other extremity of the line, where the Irrepressible Hardman was leading Whitehouse a merry dance, the most alluring chances, with delightful long swinging passes. These were invariably pounced upon—a flash along touch, and the ball was whipped across to the centre, where the inside men kept the “Wolves" defence in a state of tension. This was the real football, pure and unadulterated skillful battling against a rear division, which, though sturdily beating against the daring dashes of the home attack, was responsible mainly to its last line of resistance for preserving the narrow margin which divided the scores at the finish. Similarly in the half-back division every man was at the top of his form, Taylor reveling at centre, whilst Makepeace played a game which must make his masters gravely consider his permanent retention. Ashworth, on the right wing, was ever a thorn in the advance of Miller and Smith, and allowed them no latitude. The sympathetic feeling between the half hacks and forwards constituted one of the brightest features of the contest, and there is no doubt Everton all round were seen at their best, the football being of the highest class and carried on at a tremendous pace throughout. Not to be outdone, the full backs, and Crelley, were as efficient in defence as the men in front, their tackling being grand, whilst their returns were never at fault. Scott was thus allowed a walk-over. Of course, the Wanderers were knocking about, and their methods contrasted strangely with those of the home players. Rarely indeed did the visitors get into operation those noted rushes and daring raids in which they are so prone to indulge on their own turf, but they occasionally got well away, only, however, to finish with a half-hearted sort of shot which never looked like causing anxiety. Miller was the most prominent of the front line, though Baynam and Harwood were at times difficult to keep in check. The half backs were decidedly moderate, but further behind Jones and Betteley defended stoutly, though they were well-nigh run to a standstill by the Everton extreme wingers. Under the circumstances they gave a good display, whilst Baddeley kept a characteristic goal, and the manner in which he dealt with several shots close in. divining the purpose of the on-coming forward, was exceedingly clever. Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Beddeley; Jones, Betteley; Whitehouse, Walker and Annis; Baynam, Haywood, Wooldridge, Smith, and Miller.  Referee; F. Brunt, Hanley. 

MANCHESTER UNITED RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
October 10, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 6)
At Bank-street. At the end of half an hour Mackie beat Kitchen. The interval arrived with the score 1-0 in favour of Manchester United. The second half was of a more even character United had two penalties, both of which were untrusted to Duckworth. The first was saved, in brilliant fashion by Kitchen, but the second rebounded off the custodian into the goal. McEwan scored for Everton. Result Manchester United 2 Everton 1. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs Hanlin Chadwick, and McCartney half-backs, Roberts Rankin, McAdams Caldwell, and Dilly forwards.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
October 10, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
On Friday, the directors of the Everton Football Club signed on as their new inside left forward William McLoughlin, of the Hamilton Academical Club. The new player is 24 years old, he stands 5 feet 10 inches high, and weights a little over 11 stone.

EVERTON REVIEW
October 10 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton have evidently developed a penchant exhibiting their best form when opposed by Wolverhampton Wanderers, and their fine display last Easter, when they defeated the midlands by two clear goals, will be readily recollected. In their most recent visit to Goodison Park, the Wolves were completely overplayed, and though they managed to keep the scoring down to such a narrow margin as the final figures of 2-1 demonstrate, there was a much wilder different in the character of the play shown by the respective combatants. In fact, Everton have seldom performed so brilliantly as they did this match, and in no department of the team was there a weak spot noticeable. Both sides were as strongly represented as it was possible to make them for Everton could not avail themselves of the services of Abbott and Booth, whilst the Wolves had their usual team on view. In ten minutes Makepeace gave a judicious forward pass to Young, and, whilst some of his opponents were appealing for off-side, he ran in and scored with a very fine shot, which just entered the net before the crossbar. A capital save by Baddeley from the same player resulted in the Wolves right breaking away, but Haywood missed by inches with his final effort. Crelly cleared another rush, and the ball coming again to Young, the centre dispatched it cleverly to the right, where Sharp received possession. He easily rounded Betterley and sent across the goalmouth to Settle, who had no difficulty in putting on the second point. Then the visitors had a turn but although Scott was out of his goal, Annis failed to score from Baynam's centre. Everton were all over their opponents figuratively speaking, and, though they could not gain further goals, their play deserved them. Near the finish Taylor was penalised for hands, though the offence did not appear an intentional one, and Wooldridge netted. There upon Everton raced away, and Settle was tripped near the posts, but from the ensuing penalty he shot against Baddeley, and thus spoiled a glorious chance of regaining the two goal lead, which Everton had held almost throughout the second half. The Everton players showed some really splendid football, and they were in one of their most brilliant moods. The final score must be totally disregarded in forming an opinion of Everton's superiorily and excellence on the field, and the visitors must consider themselves extremely fortunate that they were not the recipients of a record adverse verdict. The latter were never able to get the measure of the home players and whilst their half-backs were repeatedly foiled by the brilliance of the Everton onslaughts, their own forwards could make no headway against the defence which they had to face. In the front line some most exhilarating footwork was witnessed, and much of this was doubtless due to the fact that Young was seen at his best, despite the fact that he failed once or twice with easy chances near goal. He distributed the play most judiciously, and those long passed which he deftly hooked to either wing were almost invariably dispatched just at the proper moment for causing the greatest anxiety to the Wolves defence. The two inside players were resplendent and there can be no two opinions as to McDermott's cleverness, he baffled the half back with astonishing ease, and played a splendid combined game with Sharp. Whatever faults this player may otherwise possess, he is a rare inside forward, and places perfectly. Sharp and Hardman made the most of their chances, and though the goal record should have been augmented from the many excellent crosses while they flashed from the line, yet some capital efforts were made, which would doubtless have beaten any keeper but Baddeley. Equally successful was the performance of the half-backs. Taylor in the centre again shaped most effectly; this is a position, which presumably provides him with more hard work then when on the wing, and this is just where the general utility man excels. Makepeace gave the best exhibition seen from him since he gained his place in the League eleven. He kept the ball low when passing and maintained an accurately sympathetic touch with his forwards that could scarcely have been improved upon. In addition, his speed often proved of immense services, and a continuance of this form will be eagerly awaited. Ashworth created a decadently favourable impression on his first appearance with Everton at Goodison Park, and no better tribute can be offered to these two recruits than to state that the older players who have filled the positions previously were not missed. Balmer and Crelly were both responsible for some exceptionally skilful work at full-back, and they were rarely beaten, their kicking and tackling being such that Scott was seldom requisitioned.

EVERTON BEAT THE WOLVES.
London Daily News - Monday 10 October 1904
At Goodison Park, Liverpool, the Everton team beat the Wanderers by two goals to one. The home side played brilliant football in the first half, Young and Settle -the lattr by a splendid effort - scoring goals for them. After change of ends, Everton still maintained their superiority, but they did not score again. Baddleley keeping goal in excellent form. Wooldridge scored for the visitors.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 10 October 1904
The narrow margin by which Everton registered their victory over the Wolves by no means represents the full measure of the superiority of the Blues. In fact, the Wolves were very lucky to score by the aid of a soft penalty against Taylor, whilst, on the other hand, the Blues failed to materialise a like favour bestowed on Settle. In every department Everton showed excellence, and a wonderful improvement on recent form was apparent in the half-back line, composed of Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace. Taylor kept his wings in perfect trim, and enabled them to give a really subtle display of intricate footwork. McDermott supplemented Taylor’s efforts splendidly by initiating many bewildering invasions which more often than not puzzled the Wolverhampton halves sorely. The home quintet shot with precision, but Baddeley gave a taste of his best quality, or Everton’s victory must have been overwhelming. Settle was in rare form, and was all through quick and resolute, and a continual danger to Baddeley. Sharp was a long way from his usual brilliance, and was distinctly lacking in confidence. His carefulness, unfortunately, did not prevent a breakdown, and he was at the close in great pain from his recent strain. Without doing anything sensational, Young gave a very useful exhibition, and the goal he scored was very creditable. Everton’s second goal was a most interesting illustration of scientific footwork of the highest class, against which the Wolves proved powerless. The movement commenced with Hardman was continued right across midfield carried on with a long pass well in front of Sharp, and the leather placed by that worthy just where he could not fail to score. To spectators the ruling of referees with regard to penalty kicks is frequently unsatisfactory. But there is clearly a distinct difference between “handling” and “hands.” Surely a player is in nowise to blame if the ball is kicked on to his hand or arm. Taylor’s offence was of this character, and, as a general rule, referees treat it as “handling” and do not hesitate to award the most drastic of punishments, and yet in much more glaring casers of tripping and fouling they seem anxious to display elemency. The Wolves were thus doubly favoured by Dame Fortune-first by getting a penalty and secondly by Baddley’s firm save. Verily, a good custodian is a host in himself. Ashworth maintained his reputation as a high class half back, and Makepeace also showed such earnestness, courage and resource as to merit the best opinions of the spectators.

EVERTON v  WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 10 October 1904
At Goodison Park, before 15,000 spectators. Everton were still without Booth and Abbott, but Sharp reappeared. Wolverhampton had their full team. Everton opened in great style, and Young scored within ten minutes. The Wolves were outplayed, and the brillaint work of Everton was rewarded by a grand goal from Settle.
Half-time- Everton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers nil.
Play in the second half was not so interesting as in the opening period. Everton were the better side, and gave Baddeley plenty of work; while Scott, the Everton custodian, was only rarely troubled. Wooldridge scored for Wolverhampton from a penalty given against Taylor for handling; but Baddeley saved a penalty awarded Everton, the kick being taken by Settle. Result- Everton 2 Wolverhampton Wand 1
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain) and Crelly, backs; S,B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H. Hardman, forwards.
Wolverhampton Wanderers.- Baddeley, goal; Jones and Betteley, backs; Whitehouse, Walker, and Ellis, half-backs; Baynam, Heywood, Woolridge, Smith, and Miller, forwards.

EVERTON v  WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Birmingham Daily Post - Monday 10 October 1904
It was scarcely to be expected that Wolverhampton Wanderers would return from Goodison Park with even a solitary point to their credit. As a matter of fact, they did extremely well in playing Everton to a goal. The visitors were unfortunate, inasmuch as they came across Everton when they were in one of their happiest moods. Not for a long time have the home forwards given such a crisp and clever display as they did on Saturday. Their smart passing reminded one of Preston North End when the latter were at the height of their fame. It was therefore not a matter for surprise that the Wanderers’ defence experienced many anxious moments. Young obtained the first goal, which was ineffectually protested against on the ground of offside, but there was no possibility of doubt as to the legitimacy of the second, which Settle secured, as the result of a beautifully executed movement. The only consolation from a scoring point of view that the Wanderers derived was the penalty goal kicked by Wooldridge. Curiously enough a penalty was subsequently awarded Everton in respect of a foul upon Settle, but in this instance, although the redoubtable inside left took the kick, Baddeley prevented his shot taking effect. Indeed, Baddeley was the hero of his side. Time after time he kept out shots which would have beaten any ordinary custodian. It must be admitted that the visitors deserved their defeat, Everton were much the smarter side, and many weeks may elapse before finer forward work will be seen than that exhibited by the home attack. The paucity of goals was due not so much to faulty shooting-and there was a lot of it- as to the wonderful prowess of Baddeley. It will be gathered from the foregoing remarks that the Wanderers for the most part were outplayed. Occasionally their right wing gave promise of achieving success, but after all there is no use disguising the fact that they met a cleverer team, Baddeley was a host in himself, and the backs, Jones and Betteley, kicked and tackled in commendable fashion. The halves, however, were only moderate, and the pick of the forwards was undoubtedly Miller, who was responsible for the one great centre which caused the Everton custodian any anxiety. The Everton players were on their best behaviour.

FULL POINTS
Liverpool Echo - Monday 10 October 1904
By Bee
Wolverhampton Wanderers were true to their reputation. They were away from home, and lost. The defeat was attributable to the brilliance of the Everton forwards. The Goodison Park quintet played with irresistible dash, and easily eclipsed anything they had done previously this season. Their movements were draughtboard-like and had McDermott been a little less selfish the lines would have been perfect. They got two goals only- because of Baddeley only Settle was in masterly form, and a great feature of his efforts was that he shot often and always hard. McDermott’s tappings and tippings and deceiving moves were delightful to a degree, but he gave just a trifle too much of them. This was why Settle excelled in inside right. Poor Sharp seems to have cricked his leg again. It is to be hoped he will be fit for Bury’s match, as the Gigg lane lot will be sure to do their best then to score their first victory of the season. Makepeace surprised me. He is a most capable and speedy half. The other two were safe as a rock. Baddley was the only man worthy of note on the losing side. I never shall forget the manner in which he dropped to his knees to save one from Sharp, flung himself to put a pass from Settle to Sharp out of gear, and with a marvellously quick movement of the knee frustrated a penalty kick. Nothing finer in the ‘keeping line has been seen at the Park. Young plays in place of McAdam to-night in the Lancashire Cup tie. Owing to the dullness of the day the kick-off will be earlier than previously announced-four o’clock.

EVERTON v  DARWEN
Liverpool Echo - Monday 10 October 1904
There was but a sparse attendance at Goodison Park, this afternoon, to witness the encounter between the above teams in the first round of the Lancashire Cup. The constitution of the teams was as follows;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and Balmer (R), backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.
Darwen.- Hindle, goal; Erwards, and Duckworth, backs; Scholes, Wilson, and Hallis, half-backs; Leake, Greaves, Croak, Bow and Chadwick, forwards.
Darwen won the toss, Young kicking off for Everton, who at once assumed the aggressive. Dilly causing Hindle to save a swift shot. At the other end, Kitchen saved smartly from Chadwick. After some midfield play, Everton got away on the right, Roberts passing nicely to Rankin, the latter shooting in strongly. Hindle, however, was all there, and brought off a nice clearance. A minute later Caldwell shot across the goalmouth. Everton kept up the pressure, and Young tried a shot at goal, his effort striking the crossbar and the leather rebounding into play. Rankin next tested the visitors’ custodian with a brillaint shot, which Hindle cleverly negotiated. Then Dilly nicely centred. Young heading over. A foul against Everton relieved the pressure and enabled Darwen to get close in, the home goal being subjected to a hot attack, but Kitchen and his backs defended well and kept the invaders out. Then Young scored for Everton. Rankin scored a second goal for Everton. Half-time.- Everton 2, Darwen nil.

EVERTON V DARWEN
London Daily News - Tuesday 11 October 1904
At Goodison Park, Everton defeated Darwen, in a fairly good game, by four goals to two. The match was watched by about one thousand people. The first half was well-contested, but Everton had rather the better of the exchanges, and when half-time arrived they led by two goals to nil, Young and Rankin having scored. Darwen played up in spirited style on resuming, and after rankin had put on another goal for Everton, Leach and Bow got past the home goalkeeper with good shots. Everton easily held their advantage, however, and before time Caldwell scored a fourth goal for Everton.

EVERTON RESERVES 4 DARWEN 2
October 11, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination, Round One.
The first round of this competition was entered upon at Goodison Park yesterday, before a fair gathering. The teams were: - Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs Hanlin, Chadwick, and McCartney, half-backs, Roberts, Rankins, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Darwen: - Hindle, goal, Duckworth, and Edwards backs Hollis, Wilson and Scholes, half-backs, Chadwick, Bow, Crook, Greaves and Leach. Forwards. The visitors won the toss, and Young started. After a little midfield play Darwen got near the home citadel. Wildman missed, but Kitchen secured the leather and placed it out of danger. The Blues then got possession, and combining nicely, carried operations to the Darwen half. Rankin, being opposed by Crook, passed to Dilly, who sent in a shot, which Hindle negotiated safely. The visitors right then got going, but Balmer averted danger, and Rankin dashed off and left the ball to Dilly, who shot across the goalmouth. The pressure was sustained, and Young struck the crossbar. With great force. The ball rebounded into play, and Rankin securing it, shot in, the Darwen custodian just saving. Edwards endeavoured too clear, but was spoiled by Roberts, who passed to Young, the latter crashing the ball into the net. After this reverse the visitors redoubled their efforts, but Kitchen kept his charge intact. The game was very well contested, but Everton were superior Duckworth conceded a corner, which was worked away, but Rankin and Young returned, and the former gave Hindle no chance registering the second goal in fine style. Dilly played extremely well, and was very unlucky. Half-time Everton 2 goals, Darwen nil. On resuming the visiting forwards made a determined onslaught on the Everton goal, Leech and Greaves playing finely. Wildman got the ball away however, and the Blues took up the running and, not withstanding the efforts of Duckworth. and Edwards. Rankin registered a third goal for Everton. Darwen made strenuous efforts to pierce the home defence, and with Everton slackening their efforts somewhat the visitors put on pressure. An opportunity was presented to Leach, of which he took advantage, opening the score for his side. Dilly got away, but was not well supported, and the visitors right wing carried the ball to the Everton goalmouth, where Bow defeated Kitchen. This aroused the Blues, and Roberts passed neatly to Caldwell, whose shot Hindle could not negotiate. Another excursion was made into the home territory, but all the attacks were repelled, and the game terminated in a decisive victory for Everton by 4 goals to 2.

LANCASHIRE CUP- FIRST ROUND
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 11 October 1904
EVERTON v  DARWEN
There was but a sparse attendance at Goodison Park, this afternoon, to witness the encounter between the above teams in the first round of the Lancashire Cup. The constitution of the teams was as follows;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.
Darwen.- Hindle, goal; Erwards, and Duckworth, backs; Scholes, Wilson, and Hallis, half-backs; Leake, Greaves, Croak, Bow and Chadwick, forwards.
Darwen won the toss, Young kicking off for Everton, who at once assumed the aggressive. Dilly causing Hindle to save a swift shot. At the other end, Kitchen saved smartly from Chadwick. After some midfield play, Everton got away on the right, Roberts passing nicely to Rankin, the latter shooting in strongly. Hindle, however, was all there, and brought off a nice clearance. A minute later Caldwell shot across the goalmouth. Everton kept up the pressure, and Young tried a shot at goal, his effort striking the crossbar and the leather rebounding into play. Rankin next tested the visitors’ custodian with a brillaint shot, which Hindle cleverly negotiated. Then Dilly nicely centred. Young heading over. A foul against Everton relieved the pressure and enabled Darwen to get close in, the home goal being subjected to a hot attack, but Kitchen and his backs defended well and kept the invaders out. Everton getting possession took play to the other end, and forced a corner, from which, however, nothing tangible resulted. The Blues were not to be denied, however, and came again, and this time Young made no mistake, defeating Hindle somewhat easily. From the centre Darwen raced away, and for a few minutes the home goal was in jeopardy, Kitchen being the saviour of his side on several occasions. With a nice combined movement the home forwards worked their way up the field, and Hindle was called upon to fist out a shot from Roberts. Rankin met the ball just at the right moment and banged it into the net. Play to the interval was in favour of Everton. Half-time;- Everton 2 goals, Darwen nil.
Resuming, end to end play was the order for a time. On one occasion Darwen came within an ace of scoring, Greaves heading the leather just over the crossbar. Smart forward play by the Everton contingent followed, and Rankin made a brilliant sprint down field, running through all opposing, and beating Hindle with a capital shot, which struck the upright and glanced off into the net. After this success the home team, apparently satisfied with the score, slackened down somewhat, and Leach and Bow put on goals in rapid succession for the visitors. Young, however, augmented the home score before the finish, Everton running out winners by 4 goals to 2.

LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP-FIRST ROUND
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 11 October 1904
EVERTON v  DARWEN
This tie in the first round of the above competition was decided at Goodison Park yesterday, before a mere sprinkling of spectators. Everton played their reserve eleven with the exception of Young, and Darwen were fully represented. The opening phases were greatly in Everton’s favour, and from a combined onslaught Young received and drove against the crossbar with tremendous force. Hindle cleared grandly from Rankin, but Darwen broke away, and Greaves receiving gave Kitchen a fast low shot, which the custodian smartly threw away. Everton opened the scoring through Young after 20 minutes’ play, and this roused the Darwen forwards, who made a terrific attack, but found Kitchen equal to every emergency. Another rush by the home forwards enabled Rankin to send in a shot from close quarters, and though the goalkeeper stopped the effort he failed to completely clear, and the Everton forward regaining possession easily put on the second point. From now to the interval play alternated rapidly, and Kitchen had to exert himself to the utmost to clear a shot from Chadwick, the Darwen left winger. At half-time Everton led by two clear goals. Shortly after the resumption Rankin was placed in possession by Young, and racing past all opposition he scored with a shot which struck the upright and was thereby diverted into the net. A moment later Young got well away, and with only Hindle to beat gave the custodian a tremendous drive to deal with, which was effectually repelled. Everton continued to maintain their supremacy, though Darwen made several plucky efforts, but ten minutes from the finish the home side were leading by three clear goals. Then came a wonderful change. Darwen got away twice in rapid succession, and scored through Chadwick and Crook, whilst close on time they nearly equalised., the closing stages were extremely interesting, and Darwen fought most pluckily to the end. Result Everton 3 Darwen 2
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Rankin, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.
Darwen.- Hindle, goal; Erwards, and Duckworth, backs; Scholes, Wilson, and Hallis, half-backs; Leake, Greaves, Croak, Bow and Chadwick, forwards.
Referee.- Mr. A. Chadwick, Blackburn

LOCAL NEWS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 13 October 1904
By Bees
McLaughlin, the ex-Hamilton Academicals player, who recently joined Everton, will play his first match in Liverpool on Saturday. He will be with the Everton Reserve v Bury Reserve. For the match against Everton, Bury are relying upon the same team that gave such a good account of themselves against Manchester City on Monday. There is one change as compared with last Saturday, Montgomery for Monteith.

FOOTBALL NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Friday 14 October 1904
Bee
Everton were able to bring back a point from Bury ground last season. They should have little difficulty in securing two points in the match to-morrow. The Gigg-lane lot have failed most miserably so far in the tournament, and if only the Everton men will work with that vim and precision shown against the Wanderers from Wolverhampton, there will be no doubt as to the ultimate verdict. The Blues have not given great confidence in away matches; but should they fail then we should be inclined to believe that their “consistent inconsistency” fever had stricken them down. Saturday’s form raised hopes that the club would this season improve on last season’s standing-they finished third on the ladder- and two points to-morrow will be a nice lift up. Sharp is progressing satisfactorily, and in a week or so the enthusiast may have the pleasure of seeing his favourites at full strength. There is no getting away from the fact that Everton have had an abundance of misfortune with their players so far. Still, there is ample time to pull Sheffield Wednesday back a peg.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 15 October 1904
Everton were able to bring back a point from Bury ground last season. They should have little difficulty in securing two points in the match to-day. The Gigg-lane lot have failed most miserably so far in the tournament, and if only the Everton men will work with that vim and precision shown against the Wanderers from Wolverhampton, there will be no doubt as to the ultimate verdict.
Everton v Bury
League match, at Bury. Exchange Station 1.10; Kick-off 3.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer, and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Bury.- Montgomery, goal; Slater and McEwan, backs; Johnston, Thorpe, and Ross, half-backs; Richards, Woods, Sagar, Pickering, and Plant, forwards.
Everton v Bury Reserve
Lancashire Combination match, at Goodison Park. Kick-off 3.15.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTONIAN OPTIMISM.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 15 October 1904
Whenever one feels inclined to be more than usually confident about the Evertonians there creeps in the recollection that they have many a time proved themselves a most inconsistent team. After a game full of merit and pregnant with promise of securing a high position in the League, they have come a cropper. Perhaps they would challenge Nottingham Forest for the distinction of being most inconsistent club. I do not refer so much to this season, for so far the Toffee team have not furnished us with any remarkable turn-up. One is merely afraid that they will do so, seeing that I intend in this note to say that their play against the Wolves last week was reminiscent of the brightest days of the Everton club. The attack was particularly fine. The pace, trickiness, and accurate centring of Sharp and Hardman on the extremes formed features of the display, and if the inside trio were not quite up to the same level they were still accomplished footballers and dangerous, too. What luck for the Wolves that they had goalkeeper of the calibre of Baddeley

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 15 October 1904
Everton are due at Bury, and as the latter have not won a match this season they are bound to make a desperate effort to check their run of misfortune. With the same side that was just beaten at Derby they will once more tempt fortune, and under these conditions Everton will do well to avert defeat, Gigg-lane has not proved one of their favourite grounds for the acquisition of points, and on this account a draw would be considered satisfactory. Ashworth is away, assisting the English League at Belfast, and Abbott resumes his place in the intermediate line. Sharp is not fit, and Rankin will take the outside right position. Otherwise the constitution of the side is the same as that of a week ago.
Bury v Everton…J.H. Smith, E. Whitehead and R. Rowley.
Bury.- Montgomery, goal; Slater and McEwan, backs; Johnston, Thorpe, and Ross, half-backs; Richards, Woods, Sagar, Pickering, and Plant, forwards.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer, and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards.
The Lancashire Combination Division A
Everton reserve v Bury Reserve, at Goodison Park. Kick-off 3.15.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON v  BURY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 15 October 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
ONE GOAL EACH AT HALF-TIME
The Everton team were due at Bury this afternoon, and in view of the wretched form which the Gigg Lane contingent have so far exhibited this season, the prosects of the visitors were considered very bright. At the same time it was remembered that the Bury men have invariably played well against Everton when on home territory, and it will be remembered that last year’s encounter ended in a goalless draw. The weather today was delightfully bright and fine, and a large number of the club’s supporters accompanied the Everton brigade from Exchange Station. In the cotton town itself the game was anticipated with great interest, and there appeared to be a feeling of confidence that the home eleven would for once in a way render a good account of themselves. There were two changes in the composition of the Everton side, Ashworth, who is playing in the Inter-League match with Ireland, was an absentee, and his place was taken by Makepeace, who crossed over from the other side and made room for Abbott, who reappeared after his knee trouble. In the front line, Sharp was unable to play, and Rankin took his place. The Bury eleven had one alteration, Montgomery figuring between the backs in place of Monteith. The sun was shinning brilliantly when in the presence of a capital crowd, the men lined out as follows;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (captain) and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Bury.- Montgomery, goal; Slater and McEwan, backs; Johnston, Thorpe, and Ross, half-backs; Richards, Wood, Sagar, Pickering, and Plant, forwards.
Referee. J.H. Smith, of Doncaster.

Balmer won thew toss, and the home eleven had to start in the face of the sun and against a slight breeze. The opening exchanges were not of material benefit to either side, but then the Bury right ran down in promising fashion, and a good movement was spoiled by Richards shooting wide. The Everton forwards tried to make ground, but Thorpe kicked, and the home right getting down again a corner was forced off Crelly. This was cleared safely, and the visitors once more got going. Young and Settle putting in some splendid work. They were beaten back for a moment by Slater, but, returning again, the whole front line was engaged in an assault, which ended in McDermott shooting into Mongomery’s arms. The home custodian dealt with the shot in splendid style, and following upon this there was a spell of midfield work. Rankin, one occasion tried to make ground, but he was dispossessed and a series of throwings in ensued. From these the Evertonians maintained their position in front of the home goal, but though their passing was exceedingly clever and pleasing to the eye it lacked the dash necessary to secure goals. Rankin, however, was all bustle and movement. He put in a stinging shot which was very luckily intercepted by Slater. A break away by the home forwards changed the venue, and Crelly, in order to clear his lines, passed back to Scott, who was deliberately kicked by Richards, but the referee failed to notice this gratuitous piece of fouling. Good work by the Everton halves put the forwards once more in possession, and after Rankin had another try at goal without success. Young put in a swift shot, which Slater again kicked away. After this play was of a desultory character, both ends being visited without seriously jeopardised either goal. The visitors, however, were distinctly the cleverer lot, and their foot work was obviously superior to that of their opponents. A long spell of attack on Montgomery’s charge ended in Settle forcing a corner, which was only cleared at the expense of a second. From this the ball was placed right in front of the goalmouth, and in the ensuing scrimmage McDermott succeeded in netting the ball. This reverse put the home forwards on their metal and they raced down in business-like fashion. Wood sending in a low shot which tested Scott’s ability. It was not long before the Evertonians were again acting on the aggressive and a fine concerted movement ended in Taylor shooting wide of the mark. After this play was of a more or less even character, though Everton were invariably quicker on the ball than their opponents, and on one occasion a magnificent shot by Hardman unfortunately diverted from its course by Young getting in the way. More midfield work led to an advance on the part of the home left, but the movement as completely spoiled by Plant shooting high over the bar. Another forward move was nullified by the dogged way in which Taylor stuck to Sagar, but danger threatened the Everton goal when Thorpe put in a long shot, which Scott punted clear. At this period the home team were enjoying rather the best of the argument, and the Everton defence was given a very anxious time. Balmer, however, cleared repeatedly with vigorous kicks Crelly was also a sound defender. Nevertheless the Bury front line kept pegging away with remarkable perseverance and it was only erratic shooting which prevented them from drawing level. Pickering and Sagar both had fine opportunities when they shot ridiculously wide. Everton then got a look in on the left, Hardman putting in a remarkably clever piece of work, and finally passing to Young, the latter shot just outside. A  very vigorous attack was then made on the visitors’ goal. Scott saved when at full length, but he was unable to get the ball quite away, with the result that it was sent in again and again and partially cleared, but at the third time of asking Wood rushed up and netted the leather amid great excitement. This success put the home supporters on excellent terms with themselves, and they paid a sportsmanlike tribute to Scott’s vain attempt to save his charge. Towards the interval. Both sides exerted themselves to the utmost in the hope of gaining a lead, and on one occasion Abbott headed the ball away just as it was sailing into the net. The home quintet returned to the attack, and several long shots were put in without effect. One from Richards, however, was nearly successful. Scott just managing to fist out. The Bury men were now monopolising the attack, and just on half-time a corner was forced. This was cleared and at the interval the game stood;-
Everton 1 goal, Bury 1
EVERTON SECURE TWO POINTS
Play was resumed in dull weather before 10,000 people. Bury attacked, and Scott by throwing himself full length, saved a stiff ground shot from Pickering. Everton attacked in turn, and Young put in a long shot which failed to find the mark by many yards. Play after this was of an open character, both sides attacking in turn. Johnston from long range, came within an ace of scoring. For some time Bury enjoyed the bulk of play, but their shooting lacked direction, and many promising movements consequently came to nothing. The Everton forwards were scarcely so clever as in the first half and they lacked combination. McDermott once put in a grand shot, but it passed just over the crossbar. Everton then pressed, and Young scored from close range.
Final result; Everton 2 goals, Bury 1 goal.
At Bury last season neither team could find the net.

EVERTON v BURY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 15 October 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV A
About 2,000 spectators witnessed the start at Goodison Park this afternoon, both clubs turning not strong teams.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson; Roberts, McLoughlin, McAdam, Caldwell and Dilly.
Bury.- Wolstenholme, Lindsay and Gregory; Harrison, Leeming and Ellis; Smith, Norton, Wilson, Berry, and Ball. Having lost the toss, Everton started and at the outset play was even. Kitchen saved well from Wilson, while at the opposite end Wolstenholme did well in ridding himself of a hot ball from Caldwell. The Bury left was troublesome, and after some capital work by the visitors Kitchen handed away a fast rising shot from Berry. Everton enjoyed a brief spell of attack, but the Bury defence was keen and resourceful, and easily kept their lines clear. Dilly retired for some reason or other, and Everton continued with ten men. Wilson the Bury centre got away, and bowled Wildman over, but Ball ran the leather over the line, and spoiled a possible chance of scoring. Everton were soon busy again at the other end. McLoughlin being applauded for a smart effort, which, however, availed nothing, the ball passing harmlessly wide. Roberts followed later with a capital shot straight to Wolstenholme, who however, caught and cleared gallantly. The Shakers were a well-balanced lot, and though Everton had most of the game the visitors rendered an excellent account of themselves, the defence behaving splendidly. On one occasion the Blues kept up a full five minutes’ bombardment, but the visiting backs came through the ordeal with flying colours. With Dilly back again Everton continued the pressure, Kitchen seldom being called upon, but, try as they might the Bury defence stood firm. From this point to the interval play was all in the Bury half, but nothing accrued to the Evertonians. Half-time; No score.
In the second half McLoughlin scored for Everton.
Final Everton Reserve 1 goal, Bury Reserve nil.

BURY 1 EVERTON 2
October 17 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Delightful weather favoured the visit of Everton to Bury on Saturday, and in spite of the disappointing display the East Lancashire club have given this season, considerable interest was manifested in the meeting of the old rivals. Both sides made changes, Everton being without the services of Booth, Ashworth, and Sharp, although Abbott reappeared while Bury played Montgomery for Monteith. There would be about 6,000 spectators present when the teams faced as follows: - Bury, Montgomery, goal, Slater, and McEwan, backs, Johnston, Thorp, and Ross (captain), half-backs Richards Wood, Sagar, Pickering, and Plant, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goals, W.Blamer, (captain), and Crelly backs, Makepeace, Taylor and Abbott half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. Referee J.H.Smith. In the first half Everton played with the sun at their backs, although Bury had the advantage of a slight breeze. The first item of interest was a run down by the Bury right, but Richards was wide with a finishing touch, and from the goal kick the Everton forwards were at once busy. Rankin and McDermott made the running, but McEwan came to the rescue of his side, and a long punt by Thorp called upon Balmer's full resources. The Bury forwards harassed the visitors for some few minutes, but the Evertonians came again, and McDermott put in a splendid shot, which Montgomery just reached in time to prevent almost certain disaster. The nicer points of play were decidently shown by the Everton forwards, despite the disadvantage of playing against the wind, but at this juncture the Bury backs were playing assiduous attentions to the Blues and thus prevented several capital movements from bringing about tangible results. A fine burst by the Everton forwards looked like bringing about a goal, when Slater more by good luck than management, got in the way of the ball, and following this Plant raced away on the home left, and centering compelled Scott to come out to save. In doing so he received a nasty kick. Play was now most heatedly and earnestly contested, and little indeed was there to choose between the sides. The close attentions of the backs on both side accounted for the failure of the forwards to find an opening but eventually, from a corner kick, well placed by Rankin, McDermott drove the ball into the net from a scrimmage. This fairly put the Bury players upon their mettle, and at once they bored upon the Everton defenders, only to find Balmer and Crelly ready for all emergencies. The next feature of interest was a fine bit of passing between Young, Settle, and Hardman and a splendid centre from the winger was only just missed by Young. This was followed by a smart run down by the Bury left wingers, and the visitors after a poor return by Balmer were fortunate in keeping their goal intact. These were anxious moments for Everton, but eventually the venue was changed, and when Young was well placed a very questionable decision for offside probably prevented. Everton from adding to their score. At the same time the equality of the play was not of a very high standard, as keenest played a very prominent part, but somewhat unexpectedly, the Everton defenders were found lacking in resource. Richards beat first Crelly, but Scott brought off a brilliant and unexpected save, though the keeper, after being again severely pressed, was beaten by Wood, who placed the ball quite out of his reach. There could now be no denying the earnestness of the Bury attacking Party, and for some few minutes the Everton goal was subjected to most severe pressure. At length relief came and after a speedy run down on the right wing the ball came to Abbott, who with a clever drive only just missing finding the net. Half-time Bury 1, Everton 1.
When play was resumed, there would fully 10,000 people present. A notable feature of the opening stages was a marvellous save from Pickering by Scott, who threw himself full length on the ground and pushed the ball along for Balmer to clear. Young had a fine chance, but instead of passing the ball he shot yards wide. The game was full of interest and there was no mistaking the energy Bury imparted to the play. At the same time Everton were in an aggressive mood and McDermott had hard lines with a splendid effort. Bury than attacked and Pickering had very hard lines a fine shot striking the upright. After this escape Everton rushed to the Bury end, and after the ball had been twice repelled, Young got hold and scored. Both goals were hotly assailed after this, but the defences were sound, and there was no more scoring. Bury 1 goal, Everton2.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 BURY RESERVES 0
October 17, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division. (Game 7)
At Goodison Park. The visitors had much the best of matters throughout the first half, and whenever Everton got into Bury's territory the backs were found safe. Whilst Wolstenholme's custodianship was without reproach. Interval Everton nil, Bury nil. After the resumption Everton were the first to attack, but not until McLoughlin obtained possession could they score. Result-Everton 1 Bury nil. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman and McCartney, backs Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Roberts, McLoughlin, McAdams, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.

BURY S NOUGHTY RECORD.
Athletic News - Monday 17 October 1904
By Harricus
Well now, I really did think that the Bury eleven would break the ice on Saturday, for in their last two games they had so far improved that they scored twice at Derby and twice at Manchester in the Lancashire Cup-tie, whereas previously they had never found the net more than once in a game. The directors, too, evidently thought that they had drooped across a winning side at last, for no change was made in the team and no ringing the changes. Again, Everton had only won League game at Gigg-lane in the past, and that so far back as seven seasons ago; but no, the home club is luckless, and though an uphill game was fought, it has to be recorded that the score was 2-1 in favour of Everton, and that Bury have played seven matches and have still to taste the sweets of victory. The irony of it. Two short seasons ago the club won the English Cup with record score and equalled Preston North End's feat of running through the competition without having a goal scored against them, and now—well the bulk of the 10.000 spectators on Saturday were wondering at the finish whether it will be the Second Division next season. But not a quarter of the games have been played yet, and the Bury directors are not the sort to lie down to their fate. Therefore there is hope. But really for a long time on Saturday the smart Everton men simply toyed with the home representatives, and such football as exhibited by the blue jerseyed men was worthy of that which I saw from the Aston Villa experts at Sheffield. Every man in his place and working with clockwork precision. Bury indeed were not in it, and when after fifteen minutes a corner from the left was put behind on the right side, and Rankin tried his skill from the opposite flag post, there was caused a bully in front of goal, and with many feet kicking away at the same time the ball found itself on the boot of McDermott’s foot, and into the net it went. The points had been well earned, for the Bury forwards were mediocre in comparison with the Everton attack. Gradually, however, they pulled up and Wood put in a couple of fine shots which proved that the forwards were not entirely devoid of fire. Indeed they continued to Improve, in fact the tables were completely turned, and with ten minutes to go there was determined rush on Scott. Twice he saved in wonderful fashion whilst on the ground when apparently beaten, but back the ball came again, and from a cannon Wood carried the ball through into the net. I use the word “carried.” for I am not at all sure whether he took the ball with his chest or his arm. It didn't matter much, for the referee gave a goal, and his word is law. Bury seemed to be a new team, and after crossing over their pertinacity seemed likely to be rewarded more than once, but the only damage done was to shake the cross-bar.  McDermott at the other end missed only by inches and half-way through the half the winning goal came to the Evertonians.  Hardman got away finely amidst shouts of off-side and put the ball right across the goal.  It came back to him from the right wing and he shot true this time.  Montgomery stopped the ball but could not get it away, and Young, who was standing almost under the bar, after thanking then goalkeeper for his kindness, walked the ball through.  The goal was well worked for though.  The goal was well worked for though the final touch was lacking in brilliance.  It gave one side the two points though, and that is what all clubs play for nowadays.  The victory was deserved, too, though I was agreeably surprised with the Bury eleven.  The victory was deserved, too, though I was agreeably surprised with the Bury eleven.  They were 50 per cent stronger than when I saw them against Blackburn Rovers on the first Saturday of the season, so that their case is not exactly hopeless.  Of course the club is bound to occupy a lowly position with the present lot of players, but I should imagine that Saturday’s eleven is not far removed from being the very best at the disposal of the directors.  The play of the two men new to the club this season was very satisfactory.  Percy Slater I knew as a smart back before he went to Manchester City, and on his display against Everton he is well worth his place in a League team.  Then Pickering, the North Country young man, looks like an inside left with a future.  He wants polishing up in many respects; for instance, he was the only man on the side who had not his sleeves rolled up, not much you might think, but I like to see a man as though he intended winning the game himself.  He possesses a capital knowledge of the game, and is a good shot.  As I said I believe he will train on.  The centre forward position still requires filling satisfactory, and I am afraid that Sagar has lost that cleverness which he possessed not very long ago.  Plant did not do at all badly, and rather surprised me, for I am of the opinion that he has had his day.  The real strength of the attack lay in Richards and Woods, the right wing pair.  They have evidently lost none of their power, and on Saturday’s play would carry themselves in any company.  Wood made openings for himself and shot well, while Richards was nippy and ever ready to go forward with the ball.  The half-backs were the strongest part of the team and the best of them was George Ross.  The veteran has evidently found that the shaving of his moustache has in reality made him no younger, and he looks himself made him no younger, and he looks himself again.  If he did not always secure the ball his bustling tactics frequently caused his opponents to make a wild pass or shoot wide.  Thorp’s fine reach came in very useful, and Johnston was a worrier.  McEwan was not so good as Slater at back, and Montgomery could hardly be blamed for the two goals.  He had no possible chance with the first, and he was unfortunate with the second.  Scott likewise kept a good goal, but he ran some risks in kicking at the ball, and at times he bordered on carrying.  Still he once saved the down-fall of his goal by running out to kick the ball when any other move would have been fatal.  The two backs were a fine pair.  Balmer taking the palm for brilliance, but for effect against a more dangerous wing Crelley came out better.  Jockey Taylor the utility man, was a capital centre-half, as good as any on the field, in fact quite over-shadowing Abbott and Makepeace.  The ex-Small Heath man might use his hands less when tackling opponents.  What I most admired about the Everton team was the display of the forwards in the first quarter of the game.  They came as near perfection as possible, and showed what they can do.  They knew to a nicety when and where to expect passes, and were always dangerous when on the move.  They fell away though, but they are undoubtedly a smart quinbtette.  They play the inside game and certainly Settle, Young, and McDermott were the pick of the pack, and were all skilled men.  For a long time Settle almost talked top the ball, but afterwards he either tired or eased up.  He is still a great little man.  Young, McDermott, and he certainly made some pretty passes.  Hardman was not so happy as I have seen him, though he shone in the securing of the winning goal.  Rankin possesses great speed, but is not a Sharp by any means.  Fort some reason he was left to do as he liked in the second half.  The forwards have evidently been tutored in the off-side rule for they kept their places admirably, and were seldom out of play notwithstanding the persistent appeals of the spectators.  Bury; Montgomery; Slater, and McEwan; Johnston, Thorpe, and Ross; Richards, Wood, Sagar, Pickering, and Plant.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; J.H. Smith, Doncaster. 

Picture of Charles O'Hagan who left Everton at close season for Tottenham
Never played for Everton's First Team

EVERTON REVIEW
October 17, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
One cannot help sympathizing with a club, which is in such dire straight as Bury are at the present time. They have played seven League games, and their only solatium is a single point obtained at the expense of Woolwich Arsenal when the Southerners visited Gigg lane two or three weeks ago. After their draw with Manchester City in a Lancashire Cup tie, it was fervently hoped in the East Lancashire town that the club were about to enter upon a more successful period. Everton however, rudely shattered these fond expectations, and on Saturday Bury were again in a state of despondency owing to the loss of another couple of League points. Much as Evertonians regret the misfortunate which have be fallen Bury, there is a strenuousness about League football now adays which necessarily does not admit of practical sympathy with any club in the League, no matter in what part of the county it is situated. Since their admission to the First Division the Bury club has passed through many trying periods, and with the enterprising management which it possesses, there should be every likelihood of its, energing satisfactory from the difficulties which are now being experienced. In the past the Bury executive have exhibited a wonderful capacity for unearthing local talent. Never was there such need for the exercise of this foresight for, as now constituted the team could well do with young blood. While Everton carried off the honours of the day by two goals to one, it must be conceded that Bury were a trifle unlucky in not sharing the points. There was no question whatever that Everton were the more scientific side; but what the home team lost in this respect they made up for by the earnestness and vigour which they imparted into their work. Adopting as they did what has long been aptly described as the kick and rush game, they at tines rather nonplussed the Everton defenders and under these circumstances, it is not surprising that, as an exhibition of Association football, the match did not reach a very high standard. There was plenty of very smart combination on the part of the Everton halves and forwards, but compared with the exposition of the previous week against Wolverhampton, the falling off was particularly noticeable. At the same time, the pace throughout was exceedingly fast, and, although some of the nicer points may have been lacking, the spectators were always kept on the quivive this being especially the case in the concluding portion of the first half, after Bury had equalised. In the second portion one or two of the older Burt representatives showed signs of fatigue, but with a modicum of luck the spoils might easily have been divided. Although Sharp, Booth, and Ashworth were absentees, the vacant places were filled so efficiently that they were scarcely missed. Rankin again deputized for Sharp most creditably indeed, this player seems to be more effective in away matches than when appearing at Goodison Park. Makepeace despite the fact that he was transferred to right half, was a distinct success, and with Abbott once again in his old position, the half-back line with Taylor in the centre, was fully capable of dealing with the determined rushes of the Bury forwards. The Everton attack while not absolutely on its best behaviour, was too clever for the home halves, and little fault could be found with any of the quintet. Balmer and Crelly never gave anything away, and Scott again demonstrated his claim to be ranked as one of the class custodians of the day. He effected not a few brilliant saves, and he was not to be blamed in any way for the only goal, which fell to Bury. On one occasion, Pickering sent in a terrific shot which rebounded from the crossbar and this with the exception of the goal registered, was about the only game that the Irish international looked like being defeated. Bury sadly lack a centre forward but, if the same spirit is thrown into their work as was the case on Saturday, it will not be long before the East Lancashire club emerges from the lowest rung of the League ladder.

THE ENGLISH & IRISH LEAGUERS AT PLAY
Athletic News - Monday 17 October 1904
THE SADDENACH SUCCESSFUL
By Tityrus
IF the Scottish Leaguers have turned their backs on their Irish brethren, that old-established firm, the pioneers of the system, the Football League, has not broken either faith or friendship with the Sons of Erin. There may not be all the junkettings that there used to be, but the annal encounter was brought to issue at Belfast on Saturday, when the visitors were victorious by brace of goals. Whether they deserved so decisive a margin is a matter of opinion, but that is another story which shall be developed before I conclude my narrative. The team and the Executive of the League met at Preston on Thursday evening, and crossed the Channel by the Duke of York. The passage was most comfortable, and on Friday morning the party immediately left Belfast for the Slieve Donard Hotel, at Newcastle in County Down. This palatial establishment, which belongs to the Belfast and Co. Down Railway Company, is now managed by Mr. James Clarke, who considered the comfort and convenience of his guests in every way. As Mr J. J- Bentley, the president of the League, was unable to cross the Channel, owing to a recent illness. Mr. T. H. Sidney, of Wolverhampton, the vice-president, was in command, and he had the support of Dr. Baxter, of Everton. Mr. H. S. Radford of Nottingham, Mr. McKenna of Liverpool, Mr. C. E. Sutcliffe of Burnley, and Mr. Torn Charnley, the secretary of Preston, while Mr. Phil Kelso, of Woolwich Arsenal, and Mr. Hoskins, of Chesterfield, were in charge of the players that their clubs contributed to the teams.
Time was pleasantly beguiled on the picturesque shore of Dundrum Bay, with great Slieve Donard, looming large up into the heavens, always in view. Indeed, it was impossible to escape from Slieve Donard, and I do not know that anyone wanted to do so. Trainer Lewis, the man who whispers, the man who has trained five teams which have fought in the final tie for the English Cup, and eight teams that have battled in the  semi-final stage, had the audacity to say that county Down had the hump when Slieve Donard was moulded. This same Lewis is wit of many inventions, and a man with a fund of stories. When we were riding in the train he told a good yarn of Dick Baugh, of Wolverhampton Wanderers. Lewis said that the light in the railway carriage was extinguished, so Baugh, the famous back, made no more ado than let down the window, squeeze himself through the aperture, climb up on to the roof, pull the lamp out of its socket, relight it, and return it. Then he clambered down, and, guided by willing hands and arms, was drawn in through the window amid cheers. All this time the train was travelling at express speed. This is just one of the daring deeds which footballers will do, and Dick Baugh had a heart which never wavered under any circumstances.
When we set foot on ship we were also told how Dick Baugh jumped off the quay side at Sunderland into a vessel that was moving away. I should like to know what he would not have attempted. Football players are the most daring of men. The game breads them. On Friday billiards was a very popular diversion at Slieve Donard Hotel, but nothing escaped the sport-loving players, for W. H. Jones and Stokes saw how many goals they could hit with a croquet mallet, while Blackett, the reserve back of Middlesbrough, Tom Crawshaw, Herbert Burgess, and William Shearman had a round on the golf links. There was rivalry between Blackett and Crawshaw, and both claimed the victory. Blackett had a notion of driving a long ball through the green with his iron, but Crawshaw, with a twinkle in his eye, assured me that he should like to play Taylor—and he said there would be a difference between Taylor’s game and his own. There would be. In the afternoon we boarded six jaunting cars, which are very comfortable if the traveller will allow himself to sit at ease, to loll on the cushions. The Englishman, however, always wants to catch hold of something. Jones, of Wolverhampton, showed that he was useful at jumping off small provocation when there was little chance of a wreck. However, the jaunty procession circled round the lower hill; at the base of Slieve Donard and passed through the delightful village of Bryshsford to Tullymore Park, the seat of Lord Roden, the head of the Jocelyn family of Cheshire. By the kindness of his lordship we had the privilege of driving through the sample undulating woodland of his domain. Having tried to frighten the wild rabbit from gazing at the cavalcade as they nibbled at the luscious grass, by the cracking of our driver’s whip, we jogged along up hill and down dale —chiefly down dale, through most enchanting sylvan scenery, with murmuring brooks spanned by rustic swinging bridges. The vaunted glens of the Isle of Man pale before Tullymore which is so richly wooded. And at this autumn season the foliage is delightful. Masses of deep green but served to throw into bold relief banks of gold leaves burnished by the glad sun, patches of rich crimson, and browns and madders of many shades and tints. It was a feast of colour and a joy to the lover of nature With Slieve Donard as a background it was a glorious picture. I should like to know what David Stokes thought about it, for the Bolton Wanderer is an artist with pencil and brush, and a lover of the sedately beautiful. At night, when curtains were drawn, there was the fascination of the green cloth, with those shining ivory balls gliding so noiselessly from cushion to cushion, and there was solo whist, and there were tales of football deeds round the camp—no, the smoke-room—fires. Every man was in bed betimes, and two of them, Burgess and Jones, of Wolverhampton, had to pack shillelaghs which they had bought in memory of happy day in ould Oireland. Hurroo!  On the Saturday morning Newcastle, one of the most alluring spots in the British Isles, was left behind and busy Belfast was made. On visiting the ground of the Distillery, right in the heart of the city, I found that Mr. R. Kyle, the energetic and courteous secretary,  had considered every detail. A new terraced stand, capable of allowing 7,000 people to rise tier above tier, had been constructed and the enclosure made complete in every way. Indeed. Mr. Kyle was solicitous of everyone’s comfort and was particularly anxious that I should have a good view of the game. And he is hereby thanked for his thoughtfulness. Probably the Distillery Club spent £100 in equipping the ground for the match, which was brought to a happy issue, despite the fact that the palings gave way in two places the popular side. There were quite 12,000 people—excited enthusiasts-looking on, and it is hoped that the gate will reach £400. Some of the players complained that the ground was soft and uneven in places, and others that the ball was not well blown up. So some of the English Leaguers blew up the referee; but Tom Robertson, of Glasgow, can take care of himself. The game was fast and exceedingly well fought. The quality of the football was better the first half than in the second, and if we never reached a high plane we never descended to a low sphere. I shall decline to discuss every kick, but both teams were soon into their stride. Both attacked in turn, Bridgett and Stokes, Scott and Cleary being the raiders-in-chief. Small Heath Jones was insistent in his attempts to force his way through, but Hagan, the Irishman, made the first attempt to score. Ashcroft, however, was in happy mood. The home eleven pleased much by the speed which they showed and the way in which they drew their opponents to one wing and then changed the point of attack with long passes to the other wing. There was dash in all that they did. They needed to steadier and calmer and more accurate when near goal, but Connor, the centre half back, drove in a splendid ball which Ashcroft fielded and threw away only to see Cleary return bar high, but again Ashcroft was on guard. However, at the end of half-an-hour there was an anti-climax to the valiant efforts of Ireland as Bridgett crossed the ball to the right wing. Stokes trapped it but found himself covered by the back, and so he transferred to Jones, who made a slow ground shot which to the surprise of everyone entered the net. Whether Glenn thought the ball was going outside the post I cannot say, but was as “soft” a goal as ever I saw. The Irish forwards were in no wise daunted, but the game went further against them. Bridgelt finished a rare run with a centre which Stokes could not quite utilise. Better luck came to the Boltonian, for his old Halesowen club mate, W. H. Jones, dribbled down the centre and gave to the right wing. Stokes scored ten minutes after the first goal with a screw of some speed which curled in between the post and the bar. Some people thought that Glenn ought to have repelled that ball, but that was not my view of the incident. The Irish goal had some extraordinary escapes directly after, for Bridgett struck the bar on the underside, and the ball descending almost plumb Shearman ought twice to have scored. Some of the players  said that both Bridgett’s shot and an effort by Shearman went over the line, but there was no official sign, and so at the interval England led at the end of spirited first half by two goals. The second half of the game was not quite so entertaining, for the visiting forwards were not seen at their best by any means. The Irishmen played well—except in front of goal, where the defence of Jones, Burgess, and Ashcroft was too much for them, but Hagan twice narrowly missed the coveted honour of scoring. Munday did net the ball, but he was given offside, and as I thought rightly so. Towards the close the Hibernians struggled valiantly, and there were narrow escapes for England, as there were two fierce scrimmages near goal, and another shot shivered the crossbar with Ashcroft unplaced. So Ireland went empty away and England won by 2—0.
The English eleven did not quite realise expectations, although they were slightly the stronger combination, considered both fore and aft. At the same time the Irishmen showed undaunted spirit and tireless energy.  They had, too, a commendable measure of skill, but as I have already indicated, needed a steadying force in front of goal. Such a tonic as goal in the first half might have made all the difference. and I have persuaded myself that but for the loss of men to English clubs the Irish League would not have lost all. With Scott in goal and McCracken and McCartney as backs their defence would have been vastly strengthened. Such reflections as these only induce one to think that the international with Ireland may be very interesting next spring.
In goal the Englishmen could not have been better served. I do not know Ashcroft’s capacity to deal with swift, low shots, but at high, the kind he mostly had, he is evidently difficult to beat, and when all else fails he turns an awkward ball neatly over the bar.  With an intelligent gift of anticipation he combines alertness, and save once towards the close, when he was drawn out of his keep, there never seemed any danger of his being beaten. Of the backs I preferred Jones, for Burgess is not in the form that he showed at Parkhead last April. Of course, we have to judge the little man by the standard himself set up, and although I should in justice say that he had a nasty kick on the left knee. Although Jones is apt to balloon the ball, he is a lusty, rousing back, with a strong return. He may miss the ball- he did once on Saturday-but he never misses the man. Such a back was necessary against fast bustling forwards, who did not give free kicks to their opponents. The visiting half-backs were as a set not so sound as had been hoped. Ashworth was outpaced, flurried, and apt to be wild in his returns. Good with his head and also in falling back on goal. Crawshaw was not seen at his best. An earnest trier, Bradshaw enhanced his reputation by a high-class display against the stronger wing. His placing was excellent, and but for his tremendous drive striking Shepherd on the head I even think that he might have scored-a distinction he has only once enjoyed in League games. Bradshaw is tougher than he looks. In a scrimmage towards the close he received a severe, if accidental. Kick on the left knee. He would have been glad to retire altogether, but the bottom spirit, which is the keynote of success in all virile sports, prompted him to stay to the bitter end. A simple Lancashire lad, Bradshaw may earn as great a name as another Accrington- Blackburn Rovers’ Lancastrian, George Haworth, did in his day. If I could I would say a great deal in favour of the English forwards, but it is not my fault that I cannot. It Is their misfortune. They should have given my pen more pabulum. The inside trio were not seen at their best. For Shearman it may be urged that he, too, was badly kicked early in the fray, but individuality, which is supposed to be a feature of his game, was painfully absent. There were none of those strong individual dribbles for goal, and few of those good passes which he has been known to make. Sturdy little Jones sparkled fitfully, not consistently. He was not good to his wing men, and his best shot into goal was from an off-side position, and that when he knew it. Of capital physique, Munday, by occasional touches, especially early in the game, promised much, but he was not entirely satisfactory. The wing forwards were the men. Bridgett was often busy, but David Stokes is entitled to the chief honours among the vanguard. He had a foot in both goals, and the second was distinctly to his credit. Considering that he was not well served his runs were many and his centres so timely and so good that we sighed for more of them. Some impressions of the Irishmen have already been given. They not only need a sobering influence near goal, but they should learn to take all their free-kicks much more quickly. They are so deliberate and slow over these matters that any advantage they ought to reap is lost. While they dally the other fellows take up the best possible positions. I understand that Glenn was given the post of goalkeeper by the casting vote of the chairman, who represents the Belfast Celtic Club. If that be true, and I believe it is, the gentleman allowed his loyalty to oust his judgment. Glenn may have mistakes, and then lacked opportunity to redeem himself. But errors by a goalkeeper, like a shark’s teeth, make ugly sashes. W. F. Shepherd, the right back, and youngest member of the team, was the captain. Although he improved as the game progressed, I saw no reason to exalt him above other men. He is just an average player, and not nearly so reliable, resourceful, and crashing in a tight corner as McMillan. Now the half-backs of the Irish League were a valiant set, and the back bone of their team. Nichol was the weakest, and he was not a jelly fish sort of person, while McConnell was lustiest, youngest, and excellent in all ways. And yet he was not so excellent as Connor, the centre half back. I grant that Connor occasionally plays as if he wanted to have a ball all to himself. He hugs it until he is tackled. Maybe, too, he undertakes unnecessary work. But he was, in spite of these things, the most prominent man on the field. Not only did he fill the eye, but his play was good. He is an interceptor and distributor of work on model lines. Let me tell you he is not so old as he looks. A mere country lad from Downpatrick—where the Patron Saint lies buried—he is a class half back, and I hear that he is always the same. Talk about having no metal in your boots! His shot to which I have referred might have been driven by a boot with seven soles of iron, the same as Orlando wore to protect the one vulnerable place in his body.  If lacking in the niceties of the game the Irish forwards were by no means to be despised. Association football is having a boom in Dublin. That is to be the seat of the game in the future, so they say, and the forwards of the crack clubs—the Bohemians and Shelbourne—have a reputation for dash. We saw instances of it. Harris, Sloan, and Cleary represent the Capital city and the Capital style. They also represent pace and considerable skill. The best of these three was Sloan, who, however, was out of his proper position—as he is an outside left. But he was ever bustling about, finding occupation for Cleary and opening out the game. The right wing was decidedly the stronger, even though many of Scott’s centres were too square. Hagan, the inside man, made the wing, and I should class Connor, McConnell, and Hagan as the tip-top men on their side. I do not expect pears to grow on elm trees, and so far as I have any right to be concerned in the matter at all I was delighted with the sons of Erin, although Hagan, they do say, is a Scotsman. I wonder.
England—J. Ashcroft (Woolwich Arsenal); J. Jones (Wolverhampton Wanderers). H. Burgess (Manchester City); S. B. Ashworth (Everton), T. H. Crawshaw (Sheffield Wednesday), W. Bradshaw (Blackburn Rovers); D. -Stokes (Bolton Wanderers), W. Shearman (Nottingham Forest), W. H. Jones (Small Heath),  H. Munday (Chesterfield), and A. Bridgett (Sunderland).
Ireland J. Glenn (Belfast Celtic); W. F. Shepherd (Linfield), G. McMillan (Distillery); E. McConnell (Glentoran), J. Connor (Glentoran), H. Nichol (Belfast Celtic); J. Scott (Cliftonville), P. Hagan (Linfield), V Harris (Shelbourne), H.A Sloan (Bohemians), and J. Cleary (Shelborne). Referee; T. Robertson, Glasgow.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 17 October 1904
At Gigg-lane on Saturday the Everton team assisted to further push Bury down that declivity which inevitable leads to the Second Division. It is, of course, much too early in the season to anticipate the final positions of the clubs in the table, but in only securing one point out of seven games played, the Bury Club is admittedly in a bad way. Their only consolation lies in the fact that Liverpool once lost eight games without getting a solitary point, and even then escaped the indignity of dropping out of first-class company. The game was by no means a good one on Saturday, though all the conditions were favourable. The first half was fast enough, but a series of rushes and long kicks militated against really commendable play. The Evertonians were always the cleverer, and the footwork of the forwards compared very favourably with that of their opponents. At the same time, there was a certain weakness in front of goal, and had half the opportunities been seized, the score would have been very much heavier. However, two points were secured, and it would be churlish to criticise too severely. Of the forwards, Hardman, McDermott, and Rankin were probably the most conspicuous. The halves all played sound football, and a special word of praise is due to Makepeace, who showed that he can play equally well on either wing. Balmer and Crelly were both at the top of their form- the last-named is one of the most improved players of the season. In goal Scott had plenty to do, and he did it remarkably well.

BURY v EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 17 October 1904
Played at Bury, before 10,000 spectators. Play was fast and even, McDermott scoring for Everton after 17 minutes’ play. Everton pressed, but Bury made dangerous rushes to the visitors’ end, and ten minutes before the interval Wood equalised. Abbott narrowly missed giving Everton the lead, whilst Plant missed by inches at the other end.
Half-time- Bury 1; Everton 1.
On resuming Bury were first dangerous, but working to the home end, McDermott missed narrowly, and 20 minutes after the restart Young again scored for Everton. Everton now held the advantage, their halves keeping the home forwards well in check. Bury tried hard to equalise, but the defence was too strong. Pickering again had a narrow escape. Result Everton 2 Bury 1.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (captain) and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Bury.- Montgomery, goal; Slater and McEwan, backs; Johnston, Thorpe, and Ross, half-backs; Richards, Wood, Sagar, Pickering, and Plant, forwards.
Referee. J.H. Smith, of Doncaster.

EVERTON STOP BURY
Liverpool Echo - Monday 17 October 1904
Bee
EVERTON MEN
Bury’s detractors received a shock at Gigg-lane where after a great game, the ex-Cup holders succumbed 2-1. If a shot by Pickering had gone through, instead of rebounding into play, it might have turned the tide of the game. Everton won best served at back by Balmer and Crelly, especially the former, who played the whole Bury attacking line himself at times. Scott took some risks. McDermott and Young were the better of the forwards. McAdam of the reserve team is unsound and Thorburn has been sent home for a fortnight in the hope that the native air will accomplish what the greatest attention in Liverpool has failed to do. McLoughlin is a likely-looking player. He can operate either at centre forward or in the inside positions with equal facility.
Aston Villa lost at home, and proved the sensation of the day. They are up here next week in connection with which match Sharp and Abbott have a benefit. I hope the dual benefit will be a good one, as the beneficiaries are worthy of a big reward.

SERVICES APPRECIATED
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 19 October 1904
FOOTBALLERS WHO HAVE A BENEFIT ON SATURDAY
EVERTON v  ASTON VILLA
Bee
Saturday’s match at Goodison Park with Aston Villa is being looked forward to with the keenest interest. The Villa whether in an exalted or in a lowly position are always an attraction, their midfield work being recognised as a class almost to this club alone. Recently, however, the Everton forwards and halves have shown the football public that the Aston club’s clockwork passing and pretty touches from wing man to wing man, or wing man to half back, which earned them fame in 1896-7, is not alone their share, for against Wolverhampton the footwork of the Everton men was decidedly superior to any other seen at the ground for a long day. Greek meets Greek in a few days, and though on paper form the home men should win with something to spare, yet we always look forward to the Midlanders putting up an excellent fight. You see they have upset their Everton friends’ calculations rather often. Here are the results of the meeting between them at Everton since 1892- Everton, 1-0, 4-2, 4-2, and 2-0; Villa won 3-2; Everton won 2-1; draw one each; Villa won 2-1; Everton won 2-1; Villa won 3-2 and 1-0; and last year when the Blues had by far the better of the exchanges Everton won by 1-0. Nine points have bene taken back by the Villa.
What are the prospects for Saturday? From a weather point of view, I hope they will be favourable, as also from a playing standpoint. The match is an appropriate benefit for Sharp and Abbott, for both formerly played before the Birmingham crowds. Well do I remember Sharp’s appearance in the remarkable strong Hereford Thistle side of 1897. I saw him when “Duddy” Harper was a shinning light, when his brother Bert figured at back, and when Tom Forrester, the Derbyshire cricketer booted the ball with great strength. Almost every man in the Thistle team left hen they had won the Birmingham League, and most of them went to Midland clubs. The Sharps went to the Villa, and shared the fate many a dozen other clever players have. There was no room for them in the first team! Often have I advanced the playing of J. Sharp in the Warwick cricket eleven. Strange to relate here, too, there was no room for them! What utter fallacies! Well, the Sharps left and John proved himself a clever footballer and county cricketer.
He and Abbott are thoroughly gentlemanly players and deserve a handsome sum through their joint benefit. Abbott was born in Birmingham in 1878, and learnt his game with a now defunct junior lot named Rosewood Victoria. He earned renown as a goal scorer with Small Heath, and on joining Everton in 1899, fell out of form, blossomed out as a half back when acting as a stopgap and subsequently held his position with credit.

SHARP WILL BE ABLE TO REAPPEAR ON SATURDAY
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 20 October 1904
ASHOWRTH FOR MAKEPEACE
BEE
Other popular footballers whose injuries have kept them out of the field recently are Booth and Sharp, both of whom are speedily overcoming their difficulties. It would have been decidedly bad fortune had Sharp found himself unable to play in his benefit match on Saturday, but this is not the case. Abbott stood the test strongly last week, and he too, is a certain starter. The Everton directors have arranged a special entrance for ticket-holders in order that they may have no difficulty in obtaining comfortable accommodation. The kick off is earlier than usual-3.15.
It is stated that the club are continuing their endeavours to obtain promising players for the reserve section. Last week one of the officials had a fruitless journey. However, the Everton authorities must have had the fact that eleven really good reserves are needed brought home to them by the long succession of injured players they have had to provide for this season. Looking at the Combination records, one cannot congratulate the reserve team on its position.
The home team will be; Scott; Balmer and Crelly; Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
It will be seen that Ashworth for Makepeace is the most notable change. The young reserve half back has done such good things with the first team that the task of the selectors was made extremely difficult.

LATEST FOOTBALL FIELD GOSSIP CONCERNING PLAYERS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 21 October 1904
Bee
Sharp’s progress to fitness has suddenly bene checked and the latest report states that he cannot turn out. Rankin takes his place. On Page 3 we reproduce sketches of the two players who so deservedly benefit by to-morrow’s game. It is not generally known that in addition to his hardiness with both bat and ball Sharp is extremely nimble as a step-dancer. Abbott usually providing a fine whistling accompaniment. The cricketer-footballer will probably give his friends a Highland fling and Abbott an extra strong whistle if the elements are kind to them tomorrow.
Ticket holders are again reminded that special entrances on every side of the ground have been arranged for them, and by these entrance alone will they be admitted. So far the beneficiaries have done very well in the matter of disposing of tickets, and they will if the weather is reasonably fine, reap a good sum.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 22 October 1904
Sharp’s progress to fitness has suddenly been checked, and the latest report states that he cannot turn out. Rankin takes his place. Ticket holders are again reminded that special entrances on every side of the ground have been arranged for them, and by these entrances alone will they be admitted. So far the beneficiaries have done very well in the matter of disposing of tickets, and they will, if the weather is reasonably fine, reap a good sum.
Everton v Aston Villa
League match at Goodison Park, kick-off 3.15.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; S.B Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Stockport County
Lancashire Combination match at Stockport; 3.15
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Chadwick and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Jones, McLoughlin, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.
Monday October 24
Everton v Preston North End, at Goodison Park

OUTDOOR SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 22 October 1904
Provided the weather be favourable, there should be a tremendous concourse of people present at Goodison Park this afternoon to witness the return League engagement with Aston Villa. The Midlanders are always an attractive draw in Liverpool, but on this occasion their visit is attended with exceptional circumstances, Sharp and Abbott have served their club five years and have qualified to receive a benefit. This fixture with the Villa has been selected by them for the purpose, and the proceeds of the gate will be handed over for division between these deserving players. Fortunately, both beneficiaries will be able to turn out, having recovered from their recent injuries, and Ashworth will replace Makepeace at right half-back. Everton will thus be practically at full strength, and they should repeat the verdict of a year ago, when they won by a goal to nil. A repetition of the fine form shown in the last two matches by the forwards will achieve this desirable result.
Everton v Aston Villa….W. Nunnerley, H.C Parr and G.H Wood
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; S.B Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Lancashire Combination Division A
Stockport County v Everton
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Chadwick and McCartney, half-backs; Roberts, Jones, McLoughlin, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON v  ASTON VILLA
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 22 October 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
BENEFIT OF SHARP AND ABBOTT
HARDMAN OPENS THE SCORE
ONE GOAL EACH AT THE INTERVAL
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Everything that could tend to make the game at Goodison Park this afternoon delightful combined to do so. First there was delightful weather; secondly, Abbott returned to his place sound in wind and limb;  and thirdly, was it not noble Villans who were the visitors. Aston Villa have occupied many positions in Football League history but they are ever aristocrats and always more the welcome at Everton’s. “At Homes.” Last year the blue jerseys waltzed round the Villans at the Park and yet the final verdict was but one solitary goal against the Villans. A listless or mediocre contest between the Villa and Everton seems out of the question. It was anticipated that Sharp would have sufficiently recovered to have been able to turn out, but at the last moment it was found that it was not so, and the directors and the player himself exercised their wisdom in not running further risks. The following were the teams;-
Everton; Scott; Balmer (Captain) and Crelly; Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
Aston Villa.- George; Spencer (Captain) , and Miles; Pearson, Leake, and Windhill; Brawn, Garrity, Johnson, Bache, and Lockett.
Referee.- Mr. W. Nunnerley.
The Villa skipper won the toss, and in the presence of about 25,000 spectators Young kicked off facing the sun and against a slight breeze. Almost immediately, the Everton right broke away, but only succeeded in foreign the ball over the goal line. Give-and-take play ensued, during which both the Villa wing, made great efforts to break through; but both Abbott and Ashworth kept breaking up their attacks. At last Everton advanced and Young made a dash forward, but he failed to clinch matters, and Everton were beaten back. Lockett slipped away down his wing, but was given offside, and then the ball was crossed to the Everton left. During the course of a subsequent attack a foul was given against Leake, and from this Abbott sent a long shot by the side of George’s charge. The Villans resented the attack of the Blues, and came along their left with great spirit, and, indeed, they did not meet with much serious opposition. Lockett, Bache, and Johnson displayed worrying tactics adjacent to Scott, but they failed to force either Balmer or Crelly and in attempting to put Garraty in possession Bache put behind the Villians came again very soon after, and this time their attack looked really dangerous, and wound up with the presentation by Johnson of a warm handful to Scott who kept a stolid front and cleared. The Villians would not be satisfied with their honours of attack, and advanced once more, forcing back Everton’s half back line until there was a solid phalanx of players well in front of Scott. The Villa tested several points, but they could not find any weak spot, and Abbott thereupon changed the venue. A free kick taken by Spencer led to some exciting play in front of the Everton goal Crelly missed a somewhat easy clearance, and the ball went to Lockett, who, with others, commenced to close in, when another free was give the Villa. Following this Crelly headed away, but Brawn came on the scene, and shot over the crossbar. Midfield play followed on this, and then the ball went out to Rankin, who raced up and centred badly, Taylor receiving and shooting over. After this Everton kept up a rather long attack, during which Abbott headed in, George getting the ball away after a great struggle. Shortly afterwards Young made an effort to defeat George, but failed. The struggle so far had been of an equal character, both sides showing great tenacity in attack with a firm opposition, and it was very evident that a slip on either side might easily lead to disaster. Rankin had several openings, but his centres were hardly to Young’s liking, and the Everton centre showed but little disposition to bustle either of the sturdy Brummagem backs. After fifteen minutes’ stiff work the forwards slackened a little, and uneventful exchanges in midfield became the order. At last a foul came to Everton just outside the penalty line, and the Villans never really escaped the pressure which was exerted in consequence. Everton rammed home the attack at both wings, and George had to fist out from a rasping shot by Rankin. George could not recover the situation, and the leather being served up against immediately. Hardman dashed into the thick of the fray, and put the leather past George into the net. From the centre kick the Villa made tracks for the Everton goal, but the visitors were quickly beaten back, and the Everton left broke away. A long cross went to Rankin, who fairly bustled the Villa defence, but failed to do any damage. Windmill and Leake were instrumental in keeping the home front out on another occasion, but Balmer and Taylor put Everton to the front, and McDermott shot wide. Coming back again, the homesters gained a corner on the right, which, by the way, was the first of the game. This was easily cleared from the front of George, and then Brawn and Garratty sailed away, the first named sending a pretty shot to Scott, who saved cleverly. A foul at the same moment being given against the Villa, who, however, came back in fine style, and commenced to press their opponents. A corner only served to bring out Scott’s smartness and afford Garraty an opportunity of nearly doing the trick as the Villa forward hooked the ball in from the place kick, and it was only wonderful alertness which saved the Everton goalkeeper, who caught the leather, and speedily got ride of it. Scott was soon afforded another opportunity of distinguishing himself as the Villa left came along with a burst, and Lockett presented Everton’s custodian with a warm one, while Johnson attempted to rush him through with the ball. Indeed, Scott was having a bust time of it, and so excellent was the Villa’s method of attack on both wings that they fully deserved success. After play in the centre Rankin had a rare chance, but made a mistake and enabled Leake to give a long pass to Lockett who went down and forced a corner, which was cleared from the midst of a ruck of players. However, the Villa stuck to their guns, and kept pressing forward on the Everton goal, Johnson at last bringing the move to a conclusion with a shot by the side of the post. Then Scott saved from a free kick taken at long range, and the Everton left wing made tracks for the other end, Hardman’s centre being met by Miles and handled within the penalty area. A penalty kick was given, this being taken by Balmer, and was cleverly saved by George. Just a minute before the interval success attended the effort of the Villans, who had frequently been disappointed, Browne came speeding up his wing, and from near their corner flag shot the ball in with good speed as such an oblique angle that Scott only just reached it, and the leather fell almost at Johnson’s feet. The Villans took the opportunity at once, and had the leather netted before Scott had any opportunity of offering further resistance. Thus did the visitors very deservedly equalise.
Half-time score; Everton 1 goal, Aston Villa 1 goal.
A HARD GAME
EVERTON GAIN 2 POINTS
The game in the first half was a regular eye-opener to the spectators, as Everton had by no means the best of matters. However, brilliant the home attacks might be the Villans responded with something equally telling and it was mainly due to Scott’s vigilance and cleverness that their score did not some earlier on. Restarting, Leake failed to put his men in possession, but very soon after Pearson succeeded and Balmer had to clear from Johnson, who was, however, attempting to break though unassisted. Hardman was the first to make a respectable move for Everton, but he found Pearson too tenacious an opponent. The Villa now made a demonstration on their right and had Brawn’s colleagues been in line his centre might have proved highly dangerous. As it was Balmer had to kick, so close were the attentions of the other wing, Hardman ran down his wing, but after a struggle in the corner Pearson got the ball away and Brawn made headway, but lost the ball when he got within shooting distance. A struggle in midfield ended in favour of the home players and McDermott and Rankin went down in company. They were beaten back by Miles before they were anything like dangerous, but the centre and left took up the attack, and Settle shot to score. For some time the Villa never got beyond the half way line, the Everton forwards in the meantime pressing for all they were worth. They closed in but were disappointed at the last moment. Nevertheless, Young worked round Leake and Miles and got in a beautiful shot but missed the mark. Then the Villa broke away on the left on two occasions, but their forward movements were only short-lived. The Evertonians went back in force. After Everton had a free kick, the Villa went down their left in very easy fashion. Johnson got in a shot, which Scott failed to put properly away. Garratty netting the ball and giving Villa the lead. Just afterwards, during the course of an attack by Everton, a foul was given against Pearson close to the penalty line. The free kick was taken by Abbott, who dropped the ball clean into the net and made the score equal. Five minutes later McDermott put Everton ahead. Final Result; Everton 3 goals, Aston Villa 2 goals.

VILLA v  EVERTON
The Sports Argus - Saturday 22 October 1904
MIDLANDERS PLAY HARD UP TO CHANGE OF ENDS
HOME ATTACK SUPERIOR
By “Argus Junior”
The game at Goodison Park was for the joint benefit of two players very well known to the Birmingham football community —J. Sharp sad W. Abbott, who have certainly proved most valuable to the Everton club. After the defeat sustained at home by the Villa last Saturday it was hardly surprising to find changes in the team selected. Amongst the half-backs Wood was dropped and Leake brought from the left wing to the centre. Windmill being introduced into the lines on the left wing. There was also a new arrangement amongst the forwards, for after his weak exhibition of last Saturday Gray was left out, Johnson, who they figured as Brawn's partner. taking the centre forward position. Garratty being once more tried as inside right. On the Everton side Sharp was enable to play. Rankin taking his place. For more than a month tickets had been finding a ready sale, and Abbot and Sharp were certain of a bumping benefit.
When the teams appeared there were 15,000 persons present, and the turnstiles continued to click brisky. Teams;-
Aston Villa.- George; Spencer (Captain) , and Miles; Pearson, Leake, and Windhill; Brawn, Garrity, Johnson, Bache, and Lockett.
Everton; Scott; Balmer (Captain) and Crelly; Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P Hardman.
Referee.- Mr. W. Nunnerley. (Wrexham)
Spencer won the toss and defended the City end goal. Everton started the ball a minute before the advertised time, and Rankin at once dashed down the wing, but Miles knocked into touch. The Villa travelled down, Brawn outpacing the field and striking the side of the net with the intended centre. Some smart passing between the Everton forwards enabled them to be aggressive, and Leake being penalised just on the 12-yards line, things looked ominous.  Abbott's shot, however. went over. Play was very open, both sides showing neat touches.  At length, the Villa burst away, and Bache tested Scott with a fine shot in order to save which the latter had to spring several yards across the goal. Everton were not any too quick on the ball at times, and Spencer nipped a promising bout by Young. Little and Hardman, by dashing in with a fine kick.  Up the field the Villa went, and Bache was within six yards of goal when he was robbed by Balmer. At the other end Rankin, who was sprinting very smartly, was well stopped by Miles. The Villa were having their full share of the game, and from a foul Brawn should have scored, but he spoilt a simple opening by shooting in haste and sending the ball soaring among the spectators at the back of the net. The home side were helped by free kicks against Leake, and from the second Abbott headed well in, and George had to be smart to clear. A minute later Young shot over what a goal seemed certain. Leake worked very hard, and broke up many promising attempts by Everton. The home men had become undoubtedly more persistent. Spencer, in jumping up to stop Settle, fell heavily, and resumed play limping. Just afterwards George saved from Rankin, but the ball was returned to the centre, and Spencer falling, Hardman scored twenty-five minutes from the start. Fouls were unpleasantly frequent in the Villa being by no means blameless. Miles on one occasion. jeopardised his goal in very foolish fashion by pushing McDermott in the back. Everton continued to have the better of the exchanges, their wings working admirably, and for a time the Villa were in a state of siege. Brawn raised it with a flying run, but Bache neutralised the effort by interfering with Scott. Brightening up, the visitors took a corner, and then Lockett found work for Ashworth and Balmer. Unfortunately the winger delayed his centre too long, and Scott was not troubled. The crowd cheered a brilliant individual effort by Bache, who best three or four opponents, and gave Lockett a fine opening. Scott only partially cleared the latter's, shot, but Pearson, following up, sent yards over when the goal was practically unprotected. Try as they would, the Villa could not find an opening, and Everton returned with a rush, Young and Hardman again being to the fore. Miles handled flagrantly in trying to stop the centre, but Balmer who took the penalty kick, shot the ball against George and it was cleared. The Villa attacked, and Stott failing to hold a centre from Brawn, Johnson ran up and equalised. Half-time Aston Villa 1 Everton 1
Johnson seemed to be settling down, and but for a lack of marksmen the Villa might have established a lead. It was some time before Everton became really threatening, and then McDermott spoilt a bout of passing in which all his comrades had a hand by overrunning the ball. Settle eventually secured in a good position but shot wide. Spencer intervened with a timely kick as Everton advanced again, but Young was persevering. and, dodging round Leake, grazed the post with a terrific shot. Everton put on heavy pressure, their half backs rendering splendid support, but, like the Villa, they were erratic in their shooting. A sudden break away by Lockett caused a scamper towards Scott, and then Balmer, intercepting the Villa man’s centre, touched the ball to Scott, but Garretty charged down the latter’s kick, the ball cannoning off his body into the net. Thus the Villa were in front. Everton for a moment seemed upset, but Taylor brought his men together, and a fierce onslaught on the Villa goal ended in Young missing by a half a yard. Result Everton 3 Aston Villa 2
Hardman, Abbott, and McDermott scored for Everton.
COMMENTS ON THE GAME.
Considering the ideal weather the crowd was not exceptional, but all the same Sharp and Abbott will benefit substantially.
It was a big disappointing to the latter, and also to the Everton supporters, that he was not able to turn out against his old club. The game opened rather tamely, but it improved as it progressed. In Rankin Everton have a man who would not be an understudy in many teams, and who is very little Sharp’s inferior. Hardman has also a fine turn of speed. Altogether the Everton extremes distinguished themselves. With the play open it was generally well worth watching, and though the balance rested slightly with the home side the Villa more than once showed that they are not quite so played out as they are supposed to be. The forwards were much better together than they have been for some weeks, and, though precision was lacking in front of goal, Johnson gave a very much better impression of being there or thereabouts than any other man the club has tried at centre this season. Everton’s first goal was practically unavoidable and the visitors did well to prevent then increasing their lead, for, before the flush of success had worn off, the home attack showed some exceptionally smart work. The saving of the penalty kick which George met more than half way meant a good deal, and the incident also had a cooling effect on Miles, who had shown a quite unusual disposition in the direction of risky tactics.

EVERTON 3 ASTON VILLA 2
October 24, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Walter Balmer, Penalty kick saved by George
Sharp and Abbott's Benefit
Probably no club in the League has been so popular in Liverpool as Aston Villa, and their meetings with Everton invariably provide a fine exposition of football. Apart from these considerations the visit to Goodison-park of the Villa on Saturday was unusually attractive, in as much as the match was generously set apart by the Everton directors to benefit two of the most valued players, J.Sharp, and Walter Abbott. The Liverpool public recognised the fact the players deserved their benefit, and it was all the more pleasurable that the day turned out beautifully fine, with the result that there was a splendid “gate” about 30,000 people being present. Unfortunately Sharp was unable to turn out owing to his old strain in the leg, and his place was taken by Rankin. In the half-back line, Makepeace had to give way to the amateur, S.B.Ashworth. On the Villa side Gray and Wood were dropped, Windmill and Garratty coming into the team. The players faced as follows: - Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, S.B.Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs, Rankin, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P.Hardman, forwards. Aston Villa: - George, goal, Spencer, and Miles, backs, Pearson, Leaks, and Windmill, half-backs, Brawn Garratty, Johnson, Bache, and Lockett, forwards. Referee W.Nunnerley. Young started, and a kick from Miles cannoned off Rankin and went behind the goal line. The spectators were evidently in for some interesting play, for the pace was exceedingly fast right from the start. The Villa worked down on the right but Brawn's centre was hopelessly wide. Then Everton returned in splendid style, and Young was to the fore with a brilliant effort, during, which he dodged three or four opponents without, however, being able to get in his kick. Then Leake was penalised for a foul just outside the penalty line, and Abbott taking the kick missed by inches only. Villa went down again, and after neat passing Bache sent the ball the wrong side of the upright. The Villa continued in an aggressive mood, and after good work by Bache, Johnson obtained possession. He was obviously yards offside, but the referee took no notice with the result that Scott cleverly saved a good shot. Rankin was applauded for a capital centre, but through slipping the chance was lost by Settle. Next Crelly was prominent with grand tackling, and in a further attack by the Villa, Ashworth nipped in nicely when Bache was becoming dangerous. Everton now had a look in, but Miles stuck too closely to Rankin, who was unable to get in his centre. Twice McDermott was penalised for fouling close in, and in the second instance the danger was only removed, when Brawn shot over. Spencer and Settle came lown together, and the free kick to Everton led to a smart attack on George's charge. Young and Parkin were especially prominent, and George cleverly fisted out a shot from the latter as it was sailing under the bar. This in no way deterred the Evertonians from further efforts, and their efforts were rewarded, for Hardman, after losing the ball recovered himself, and defeated the Villa custodian. There was no cessation in the pace, and for some time the Villa clever as was their footwork, had to play second fiddle to the Evertonians, who were full of life, and vigour. A long shot from Abbott failed to take effect, and then a couple of mistakes by Balmer threatened danger to the Everton goal. Garratty shot into the hands of the goalkeeper, who in saving was unfairly charged by Johnson. After a temporary visit to the Villa's quarters, Everton were beaten back and following a foul, the Villa gained a corner. This was well placed, and Scott intercepted a header from Johnson. The excitement was maintained, the ball travelling with great rapidity from end to end. Scott fisted out cleverly, and was ably asisted by Crelly, who had been playing a grand game. The Everton left next were to the fore and from a centre by Hardman, Miles knocked the ball down with his hands. The dreaded penalty Kick was awarded, and Balmer took the kick, but he shot straight at George, and the ball was got safety away. The Villa kept at it, and after Scott had flung himself at a centre from Brawn, the ball went to Johnson, from whom it rebounded into the net. Half-time Everton 1 goal, Aston Villa 1.
On the game being resumed the Villa were the first to become prominent, and a hugh kick by Balmer was of timely services to his side. The Everton forwards could make little headway, although Hardman tried desperately hard to run round Spencer. Brawn got away on his own, and Balmer only got rid of his centre by kicking over the line. Everton carried operations to their opponents half, but they were not allowed to remain there long, for they were soon again clustering round Scott, who was not to be beaten. At last the home forwards showed a glimpse of their real form, but Rankin's shot was charged down, while McDermott sent wide. Hardman had some interesting tussles with Spencer, in which, honours were fairly even. Still the Everton attack lacked sting, more than one chance going a-begging, Young on one occasion, nearly getting through on his own. As it was a fast shot, luckily for the Villa custodian was lacking in direction. Everton were now having the pull and Hardman forced a corner off Pearson. Though nothing came of it the Villa for some time was penned in their own quarter. Suddenly Lockett dashed along the wing, and centred the ball, which was passed back to Scott. The goalkeeper kicked the ball against Garratty, off whom it rebounded on to the upright, and into the net. After this unexpected reverse, Everton played up with renewed determination, but the Villa were buoyed up with their lead, and defended desperately. They conceded a corner, which came to nothing, but a moment later Abbott was fouled outside the penalty line. Abbott took the kick and drove the ball right into the net. George having no chance. The equalising goal only served to increase the excitement, and the Villa goal was subjected to further pressure. During a scrimmage in the goalmouth, following a corner, McDermott scored Everton's third goal. Result Everton 3 goals, Aston Villa 2.

A CAPABLE RECRUIT.
Athletic News - Monday 24 October 1904
By Junius
When Everton were faced with the difficult task of finding substitutes for such experienced players as Booth and Abbott, owing to injuries received, it will be readily admitted that their resources were considerably strained. Fortunate was it, therefore, that they possessed a recruit of the calibre of Harry Makepeace, who may be dubbed a purely local product. He was born at Middlesbrough in 1881 and spent the early part of his life Darlington. Twelve Years ago he came to Liverpool, and was educated at the Queen's road Board School. He began his football career with the club attached to this elementary school, and after leaving became attached the Queen's-road Mission, a team connected with a local Junior League. In 1901 he was brought to the notice of the Everton directors, and has since been associated with the Goodison Park Club. His first position was as inside left, but later on he was transferred to the post of left half-back, where he has operated for two seasons in the reserve team. Occasionally he figure in the League eleven last season, and this year, when Abbott was incapacitated, he was requisitioned to fill the vacancy at left half-back. He has improved beyond all knowledge since his acquaintance with the requirements of First League warfare, and against the “Wolves” three weeks ago played an exceptionally fine game.  He possesses a rare turn speed, and uses his head in attending to the needs of his forwards. Though on the small side as regards stature, he possesses command over the ball, and is one of the most likely recruits in the Everton ranks. His abilities are not confined to football, for he is one of the smartest young professional cricketers in the Liverpool district. At various times he has played for Clubmoor, Stanley, and Wavertree, and is well worthy a trial in the District matches Always willing to learn be seems likely to develop into a most useful League player.

EVERTON NEWS
This afternoon, Everton play Preston North End in the second round of the Lancashire Cup-ties at Goodison Park.  They are placing their strongest side in the field, and according to represent arrangements, the team that defeated the Villa will oppose the North Enders.  This is as it should be, for if it is worthwhile engaging in any competition, the best possible combination should be selected for duty.  In the Everton match against the Villa, I believe the proceeds amounted to between 700 and 800 pounds, so that Sharp and Abbott are assured of a substantial reward for their services. 

GLORIOUS GAME AT GOODISON.
Athletic News - Monday 24 October 1904
By The Pilgrim
A glorious game, a glorious gate, and a glorious win attended the Evertonians in their match with Aston Villa at Goodison Park on Saturday. They triumphed by three goals to two after as keen and as exciting a contest as it is possible to imagine, and upwards of 30,000 spectators must have left the ground thoroughly delighted with the manner in which the game had been pulled out of the fire. I must confess I have seen nothing finer this season, and I hasten to congratulate the Goodisonians on their brilliant achievement. And on their play, too, for whilst the Villa gave them a surprisingly good game, it must be admitted that Everton were the better team. But whilst they were the first to score, and ought to have held the lead at the interval, the Evertonians were not assured of their victory until the final whistle sounded. And then only after they had experienced what must have been a terrible fragile, for a quarter of an hour after the commencement of the second half the Villa forged ahead, and it was only by a brilliant spurt that the points were wrested from their grasp. Sufficient has been said by way of introduction to show the varying vicissitudes of the game and the stern character of the struggle, and so one might be pardoned for reverting for few moments to the commencement of the chapter. Throughout the football world the match claimed an especial interest inasmuch as it was set apart for the joint benefit of two sterling Evertonians—John Sharp and Walter Abbott, whose splendid service the executive desired to recognize. Much might be written of both men, but here it is unnecessary. Both are well known, and their ability has never been questioned. There was an appropriateness in selecting the match with the Villa for such an occasion for both the beneficiaries had reached Everton by way of Birmingham, and Sharp, as is well known, transferred his affections from the Aston organisation. But quite apart, from this what more popular fixture could have been desired? Although they have not had a brilliant season, the Villa still retain their place in the affections of football enthusiasts, and that they have lost none of their magnetic drawing power was clearly demonstrated on Saturday when the gate receipts amounted to something like £650. It was to be regretted that Sharp was still unable to play, but Abbott was present in all his glory, and had a very good share in the honours of victory. S. B. Ashworth came back into the Everton team, and Rankin again figured at outside right. There were two changes in the Villa team. Gray and Wood standing down in favour of Windmill and Garratty, the inclusion of the latter permitting Johnson to again appear at centre forward. Much might be written of the game, which fluctuated with lightning rapidity, and was never in one part of the field for any length of time at a stretch. The play was very much of the first-me-and-then-you character, and there was really very little to choose between the teams.  But I thought the Evertonians were rather smarter on the ball and moved with greater facility.  The forwards very quickly got into their stride.  Before one had thoroughly realized that the game was in progress they were bearing down on the Villa goal in seemingly irresistible fashion, and only twenty-four minutes had elapsed when the fortress was captured.  Quite the feature of the play up to this time-and, indeed up to the interval-was the brilliant work of McDermott.  Indirectly the opening goal was due to his dexterous footwork, clever passing, and sound judgement.  He seemed to weigh up the whole situation in a moment and swinging a ball wide out to Rankin, the fleet-footed outsider dashed away like a greyhound.  He shot hard and true, but George’s powerful fist came down on the ball with sledge-hammer force, and momentarily the goal was cleared.  But the ball was back in a twinkling.  It was centred from the right, and Spencer and the stripling Hardman wrestled for possession with the result that the “Villian” was bested and the ball was in the net.  The visitors had been far from idle, and several times Scott had to clear.  He made one remarkably fine save from Johnson, when that player, had been allowed to shoot from a palpably offside position, and others from Garrett, Bache, and Lockett; but five minutes from the interval the Evertonians had a splendid opportunity vouchsafed to them of increasing their lead.  They were awarded a penalty kick for a flagrant case of handling by Miles in stopping a centre by Hardman.  Balmer, who had exactly covered himself with glory, entrusted himself with the kick, but only succeeded in banging the ball against George and the chance was lost.  It required little more than a minute from the interval when the Villa obtained the equalizing goal, for which Brawn was largely responsible.  He tricked Crelley and centred beautifully about three yards in front of goal.  Scott came out to meet the ball and endeavored to thump away.  It was, however, a very awkward customer, and he only succeeded in banged it against Johnson, off whom it rebounded into the net.  And so the score was one all at half-time.  Only a quarter of an hour had elapsed in the second half when the Villa took the lead in very simple fashion.  Lockett got away on the left, and from his centre, Crelley, with apparently good time for clearing, put back towards Scott.  The custodian essayed to kick away as Garratty dashed up, but the ball struck the insider, off whom it rebounded against the upright and into the net.  From this point the battle waged more fiercely than ever, and at the end of three minutes, from a free kick just outside the penalty area, Abbott equalized, whilst a quarter of an hour from the finish, McDermott crowned a brilliant afternoon’s work by giving his side the lead following a corner kick.  And so the defeat the Evertonians sustained at Birmingham a few weeks ago has thus early been avenged.  It was a great struggle, fast and exciting from the beginning to the end, and the maintenance of such a pace spoke eloquently of the fitness of the men.  The passing and footwork of the home forwards were at times superb, and amongst the constellation McDermott stood
out as the brightest star. Rankin’s flashes, Young’s dashes, and Settle’s splashes were features of the display, and little Hardman deserves more than a modicum of praise for the manner in which he accomplished his work. There was little to choose between the half-backs, and it was especially gratifying to had Abbott and Taylor in such good form, though the shooting of the beneficiaries might have been a little more accurate. The backs might have played better. They both made mistakes, and thought Crelley, who tackled splendidly, was the better of the two up to his mistake in the second half, though Balmer was much steadier after the interval. Scott has exceptional skill in thumping a ball away, and whilst he was not faultless he did a lot very clever work, as also did George, some of whose clearances were really magnificent. But, the backs were not all that could be desired, and Howard Spencer, who met with a slight Injury in the second half, found Hardman a very troublesome customer. I did not think the half-backs, as a line, were equal to the home trio, though they worked hard and not without effect, Leake being about the pick. The forwards, who were by no means the least effective part of the team, showed a lot clever play, Bache displaying his usual skill and initiative, and making, with Lockett, a capital wing. On the opposite side Brawn executed some sparkling runs, and Garratty and Johnson completed a line which moved with method and dash and always required to be reckoned with. Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Ashworth, Taylor, Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Aston Villa; George; Spencer, Miles; Pearson, Leake, Windmill; Brawn, Garratty, Johnson, Bache, and Lockett.  Referee; W. Nunnerley, Wrexham. 

Walter Abbot and Jack Sharp benefit match was played on saturday

STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 4 EVERTON RESERVES 2
October 24 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 8)
At Edgeley Park. Hall opened the score with a shot, which gave Kitchen no chance. Stockport did all the pressing. Half-time Stockport County 1, Everton nil. On restarting Stockport at once assumed the aggressive. After a spell of even play. Smart again scored for Stockport. McLoughlin reduced the lead with a fine low shot, and in the next minute Roberts again scored. Seven minutes from the close, Green put Stockport ahead, and almost immediately after scored a fourth. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Wildman and R.Balmer, backs, Makepeace, Chadwick, and McCratney half-backs, Roberts Rankin, W.McLoughlin Caldwell, and Dilly forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
October 24, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Fortunately for the complete success of the game between Everton and Aston Villa, the weather turned out remarkably fine, and the benefit for those deserving players- Abbott and Sharp- should be sugmented by close upon £800. Everything connected with the event passed off most effactionally, for the game was quite up to the traditions of the past when those teams have met. No doubt their unexpected defeat the previous week had nerved the Villa to greater deeds whilst on the other hand, Everton may have felt somewhat over confident as to the issue. Whatever the reason may be, is problematical, but there can be no difference of opinion as to the quality of the play which was witnessed. The visitors made the pace a hot one from the start, and a superb struggle for supremacy ensued, which although the interval figure equality, progressed more in favour of the Villa, than the home side. This 45 minutes hard battling was the central portion of the combat, around which the issue bung in the balance, and on the form exhibited by the Midlanders, it is pretty safe to assert that they played vastly superior football to what they have been displaying in their recent matches. The half-backs kept the ball moving forward with ruthless persistency, and the men in the front rank were always on the alert. Everton indeed experienced a warm time of it before the interval. Just a word or two about the goals, which with one exception, were somewhat curiously obtained. Hardman led the way, after Rankin had given George a teaser to stop, but the left winger only found the net with difficulty. Spencer tackled him, and a tussle ensued, during which, Hardman felt, and appeared to have lost the chance, but suddenly he recovered himself, and managed to hook the ball between the posts. The game continued at a great pace, the Villa working finely together, but Scott was in great trim, and saved repeatedly. Then came a penalty against Miles- a most unnecessary ruling under the circumstances, for what seemed a completely accidental case of hands- and the crowd fairly cheered when Balmer shot against George, and the goal was saved. Brawn was chiefly responsible for the equaliser, for Scott who flung himself full length to save his right winger's drive, could only tip the ball a few yards away, and Johnson, who was close in, netted the leather, which rebounded off his breast. In the second half some loose work gave the Villa the lead, for Lockett beat Balmer and centred, where upon Crelly came across and tipped the ball back to Scott. The custodian endeavored to kick away, but sent the leather against Garratty, and it rebounded of this player, against the upright and into the net. Abbott's equaliser was a remarkably fine shot from a free kick, but McDermott's winning point came from a scrimmage under the bar. In comparison with what was witnessed after half-time the play in the first portion of the contest was tame, but a more exciting finish has not been seen on the ground for many a day. The Everton forwards seemed unable to shake off the attentions of the opposing half-backs, and the solid defence further in the rear in the early stages, and so dashing were the onslaught of the Villa front line, that the visitor's were favourites for the event when they resumed operations after breathing time. When they obtained the lead, such a contingency appeared almost a certainty, but this turned out to be Everton's opportunity, and by really fine football the home players asserted their superiority by going ahead in irresistible style for the remainder of the afternoon. In this fashion did the Everton players redeem their position, and though they cannot be judged from the same standpoint throughout, they must be credited with having given a decidedly invigorating exposition. Little fault could be found with the forwards, though McDermott was inclined to cling to the ball too long, and wander away from his customary post to the left wing. There was no necessity to do this, for Rankin was well, able to look after himself on the extreme right. The latter did not centre with that judicious accuracy that characterises the crosses from Sharp's foot, but he shaped very promisingly, and placed the corner kick which led to the winning goal very cleverly in front of the posts. McDermott distributed some beautifully passes to both wings, and Young was likewise prominent in this respect. Settle and Hardman as usual, combined well, and beyond the inability to turn several chances to account when near goal, the forwards play all round was exceedingly creditable. In the intermediate division, Taylor at centre half bore off the honours for he got through an enormous amount of work, and was as keen at the finish as when the game started. He fairly harassed the Villa inside men, and repeatedly dispossessed them a most unexpected time. Ashworth and Abbott, were so prominent, and the former had rather more than he could successfully cope with in Bache and Lockett; but both were decidently useful, and Abbott showed no signs of a return of his previous injury. Crelly was the better of the fullbacks, his tackling being exceptionally efficient and Balmer paled by comparison. The right wing allowed the opposition more latitude than is usually the case and the Villa pair above mentioned frequently got clear away, Scott was twice beaten, but in the intervals between he effected some capital clearances. The Villa second goal was due to a mistake, but his other work was so skilful that it more than compensated for this failure. The display of the Villa was surprising considering the reports of their earlier disappointing performances, and on the form shows against Everton, they will win more matches than will be lost. Their attack was keen and vigorous and they wasted no time in shooting, Johnson, Brawn, and Garratty sending in some terrific drives, which tested the qualities of Scott to the almost. Bache was responsible for some excellent dribbling, and Lockett could have done better had he wasted less time in hesitancy as to which, way to travel when the ball was sent out to him. Though their movements were not so pleasing to witness as in the Villa days of old, there was sufficient life about the work of the forwards to have broken down the majority of League defences more than twice. Leake was prominent at centre half, and Windmill is a player of promise. One could not but admire the smart placing of the trio, and they constituted a solid reliable line, which enabled their side to offer a most stubborn resistance to Everton's progress. Spencer is still a capable full-back, and a pattern of fairness. Whilst Miles exhibited sound defence. George had not a great deal to perform, for as already stated, the home forwards were rather remiss in shooting; but on the occasions when he was severely tested, he moved his worth in no uncertain manner. It will thus he gathered that the two combatants were most evenly matched, and Everton won simply because they rose to the occasion after being a goal in arrears, and an apparently beaten team. A continuance of this form will land them very near the championship.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 24 October 1904
Seldom has the Everton eleven played such a slashing game as they played on Saturday against the Villa. Usually their victories are achieved on distinctly scientific and artistic lines; at least these appear to be the preeminent characteristics -on Saturday, we witnessed a gallant victory result from the never-say-die fighting spirit. The game had not made much headway when a battle of experts was foreshadowed. The Villans were in fine form, full of energy and determination, and these qualities were backed up by highly scientific footwork and resources and excellent judgement in tackling. Beside their formidable opponents Everton’s usual brilliance was not so apparent. The game rapidly developed into a series of deadly attacks and counter attacks. The defence had great difficulty in breaking up the almost irresistible advances of the forwards so that the backs on both sides had a very heavy task. It is not often that the custodians both have a very hot experience; such was the case on Saturday when George and Scott received a rare gruelling. The result was an exhibition of as grand dual custodianship as the most captious crowd of spectators might ever hope to see. A division of honours at the interval fairly represented the game. It was in the latter half, however, that the splendid qualities of both teams were more clearly demonstrated. Scott appeared to lose his head when Garratty managed to put the Villans in front; at any rate the Everton custodian was not at his best. Then followed such a bad time for the Blues that they seemed quite a beaten team. The Villians’ attack waxed fiercer and fiercer, and Scott had to put up with a merry fusillade. It seemed any odds on the Villa scoring again, when a sudden forward dash by the hotly pressed Evertonians was followed by a free kick in their favour. To the delight of the crowd Abbott’s kick piloted the ball safely through a host of players into the net. What a change came over Everton then! They seemed galvanised into quadruped energy, and swept through the Villa ranks as if they were wooden soldiers. After a really brilliant sequence of passing adjacent to George, McDermott once more obtained the coveted lead. The Villians struggled gamely, but they had shot their bolt, their magnificent efforts gradually sputtered out, and Everton became masters of the situation until the end.

ASTON VILLA STILL LOSING
Birmingham Daily Post - Monday 24 October 1904
It was a striking testimony to the popularity of the Aston Villa team that, low as they are in the League table, a gate of about 30,000 assembled at Goodison Park to witness their match with Everton on Saturday. The match had been announced as for the benefit of J. Sharp, the ex-Villa forward, and Abbott, the old Small heath goal-getter, but the real facts are that the Everton directorate are this season setting aside two League matches for the benefit of four players- Settle and Kitchen, in addition to the two already mentioned- the proceeds of which will be pooled and divided amongst the four men. The Bury match, to be played in February next, will be the second of the two, and should there be any approach on that occasion to the gate of Saturday the men- who have all done yeoman service for Everton- will have a handsome sum to divide. In taking the action they have with regard to loyal and deserving members of the team the Everton executive are hopeful of removing the sereness consequent on the abolition of bonuses under the wage-limit rule by assuring their players a substantial benefit, and the system may be worth the consideration of other football executives. Unfortunately, Sharp, one of the beneficiaries was unable to turn out on Saturday, not having sufficiently recovered from a strained leg, but with this exception Everton were at full strength. The poor display given by the Villa against Derby County the previous Saturday resulted in a couple of changes, Windmill displacing Wood in the half-back line, and Garraty reappearing in the attack. Matches between the Villa and Everton are always interesting to watch, for the style of the two teams are very similar, and a poor game between the pair is a rarity. The play in Saturday’s encounter was brisk enough, and five goals were scored-three by Everton and two by the Villa-but they were all of the scrambling order, not one of them being of the clean-got stamp which excites the enthusiasm of the spectators by their brilliance. The opening exchanges were not very brisk, but after the teams had settled down Everton’s gradually gained the ascendancy and their forwards found the Villa defence plenty of work to do, Rankin, who was understudying Sharp, being prominent with some good runs and centres on the right, and he kept Miles very busy. Then the Villa had a turn at attacking, in which Lockett, Bache, and Johnson were prominent, and Scott, the Everton goalkeeper, had to deal with one or two difficult shots. It was Abbott who ultimately set Everton going again, and as a result of a foul against the Villa there was some warm work round George, who fisted out from Rankin, but was beaten by Hardman before he could fairly recover himself. Thus heartened, the Everton men played up in great style, but the Villa half-backs broke up the attacks, and after a clever run up the left wing Lockett sent in a beauty, which gave Scott some trouble to clear. Then Miles did a foolish thing, for with a couple of opponents on him, and when he might have cleared by conceding a corner, he palpably fouled the ball within the penalty area, and the referee promptly awarded the penalty kick. Balmer took it, but George beat him, and just before half-time Johnson rushed the ball through after Scott had failed to clear from Brawn. To be level at this stage of the game was quite satisfactory to the Villa supporters, of whom there were a good contingent present, and when, after give-and-take play, Scott, in clearing, punched the ball on to Garraty, from whom it cannoned into the net, visions arose of two points being taken back to Birmingham. But Everton had still something to say in the matter, and in a very few minutes, after Young had missed by half a yard with a fast shot, Abbott turned to account a foul against Pearson by scoring from the free kick. Then Everton went for all they were worth, and in less than five minutes Rankin put in a good centre and the ball was rushed through, and Everton were once more ahead. And there they remained to the close, for the Villa were at a disadvantage with Spencer limping and some of the front rank shaping as though they had quite enough of it. The score fairly reflects the play, for the Everton men stuck to their work in gamer fashion team did the Villa in the closing stages, and they deserved their win. Their forwards, though rather wild in front of goal, were rare workers, and kept the opposition defence busy. The two outside men, Hardman and Rankin, were the pick, the latter being well fed by his partner, McDermott. The halves were sound, and the backs tackled and defended in stubborn fashion, whilst Scott’s work in goal was for the most part clean and smart. The play of the Villa was an improvement on that against Derby County, but there was still something lacking. In their case also the outside forwards were the best of the quintet. Lockett putting in some capital runs and centres, but Brawn seemed hardly so speedy as usual., Garraty as is customary, was a worker, but neither Bache nor Johnson was seen at his best. Leake was the pick of the halves, and Spencer of the backs, though lameness handicapped him in the second half. George could not be blamed for the goals scored against him, and he frequently cleared when the downfall of his goal seemed certain. The work of several of the team towards the finish gave one the idea that they were not thoroughly fit. A word of praise is due to the London and North-Western Railway Company for the pleasant and expeditious way in which they conveyed about eight hundred enthusiasts to and from the match. Such a service is calculated to enormously increase the popularity, great as it is already, of football excursions. 

EVERTON v  ASTON VILLA
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 24 October 1904
At Goodison Park, before 27,000 spectators. Everton opened in dashing style, but eventually the Villa retaliated, and even play followed. From a dash on Everton’s left wing Hardman scored after Spencer had once cleared. A penalty was awarded Everton, but Balmer shot against George. Bache and Garratty put in some splendid work, but met a sound defence. Close on the interval Johnson equalised from Brawn’s centre.
Interval- Everton 1; Villa 1
After pressure by Everton Lockett broke away, and Garratty gave the Villa the lead. This was followed by brilliant work by Everton, Abbott scored from a free kick, and amid great excitement, McDermott during a scrimmage obtained a third goal for Everton. The game was most exciting to the finish. Result- Everton 3 Aston Villa 2
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (captain) and Crelly, backs; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Aston Villa.- George, goal; Spencer (Captain) and Miles, backs; Pearson, Leake, and Windmill, half-backs; Brawn, Garratty, Johnson, Bache, and Lockett, forwards.

EVERTON v  PRESTON NORTH END
Liverpool Echo - Monday 24 October 1904
(Lancashire Cup- Second Round)
Bad weather was all against a big crowd at Goodison Park to witness this encounter, but, there were a couple of thousand people present at the start. Both teams quickly got to work, and Pearson at once exerted pressure on the right, where Smith soon found an opening and defeated Scott after three minutes’ play. The play then became of a determined nature for another fifteen minutes until the Everton right fairly beat the Preston half line. Clever work between Young, Rankin, and Settle resulted in the latter equalising, McBride being helpless to oppose.
Half-time; Preston North End 1 goal, Everton 1 goal.
Restarting North End soon forced a fruitless corner; then Dilly and Rankin on their respective wings made feeble efforts McDermott was fouled from a free kick, and Abbott presented McBride with a warm handful. North End were assembled in force in front of front if Scott, but could not find the net. Young next got to close quarters with McBride, but only hit the post at the finish. A very fine sequence of passing along the whole Preston forward line was brought to nought owing to a bad wind up by Bond. Dilly soon had a good chance, but he centred much too far forward. Rankin opened up a stiff attack at close quarters from a free kick, but North End’s defence stood the shock. Then hostilities were temporarily suspended owing to Derbyshire being damaged. The game was so evenly contested that ten minutes from the finish a draw seemed extremely likely. A few minutes from time Rankin was badly tripped but the referee took no notice. Taylor immediately took possession and place to Settle who was in a good position. Neither Worner nor Derbyshire could close in on the little man, and Settle neatly tipped the leather past McBride, thus winning the game in the last minute.
Final-Everton 2 Preston North End 1.

EVERTON v. PRESTON NORTH END.
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer - Tuesday 25 October 1904
Played at Liverpool yesterday, before 4.000 spectators. Smith scored for Preston in three minutes, Settle equalising twenty minutes later, the score being unchanged at the interval. On resuming Young got through , but his the post. Derbyshire retired ten minutes but Everton failed to score. Settle got through, but was offside. Everton ahd the best of matters, and five minutes from time Settle scrored the result being -Everton 2 goals, Preston North End 1 goal.

LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP
London Daily News - Tuesday 25 October 1904
The second round of the Lancashire Senior Cup competition was entered upon yesterday, when Everton and Preston North End met in the first of the four ties at Goodison Park./ The ground was very slippery, but some good football was seen. Preston began in fine style, Smith scoring for them within three minutes of the start. Settle, however, quickly equalised, but though Everton had the better of the game up to half-time they did not score again. The exchanges were very even afterwards, Preston, despite the loss of Derbyshoire for a time, defending well. Settle, however, beat MCBride near the finish and thus Everton won by two goals to one.

EVERTON 2 PRESTON NORTH END 1
October 25 1904. The Liverpool Daily Post
Lancashire Cup Second Round.
Bad weather was all against a big crowd at Goodison Park to witness the encounter, but there were a couple of thousand people present at the start. Both teams quickly got to work, and Preston at once exerted pressure on the right where Smith soon found an opening, and defeated Scott after three minutes play. The play then became of a determined nature for another fifteen minutes until the Everton right fairly beat the Preston half line. Clever work between, Young, Rankin and Settle resulted in the latter equalising. McBride being helpless. Half-time Everton 1, goal, Preston North End 1. Restarting North End soon forced a fruitless corner, then Dilly and Rankin on their respective wings inside made feeble efforts, McDermott was fouled from a free kick, and Abbott presented McBride with a warm handful North End were assembled in force in front of Scott, but could not find the net. Young next got to close quarters, with McBride, but only hit the post at the finish. Bond brought a very fine sequence of passing along the whole Preston forward line to enough owing to a bad wind up. Dilly soon had a good chance but he centred much too far forward. Rankin opened up a stiff attack at close quarters from a free kick, but North End's defence stood the shock. Then hostilities were temporarily suspended owing to Derbyshire being damaged. The game was so evenly contested that ten minutes from the finish a draw seemed extremely likely. A few minutes from time, Rankin was badly tipped, but the referee took no notice. Taylor immediately took possession and placed to Settle, who was in a good position. Neither Warmer nor Derbyshire could close in on the little man, and Settle neatly tipped the leather past McBride, thus winning the game in the last minute. Result Everton 2, goals, Preston North End 1. Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and R.Balmer, backs Makepeace Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Rankin McDermott, Young, Settle, and Dilly forwards. Preston North End: - McBride, goal, Derbyshire, and Warmer, backs, McLean Hunter, and Lyon, half-backs Bond Smith Wilcox, Bell (captain), and Catterall, forwards.

LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP SECOND ROUND
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 25 October 1904
EVERTON v  PRESTON NORTH END
At Liverpool, on wet ground, before 4000 people. Both teams were well represented. Smith scored for Preston in three minutes. Settle equalised 20 minutes later, the score being unchanged at the interval. Resuming, Young got through, but hit the post. Derbyshire retired ten minutes later, but Everton failed to score. Settle got through, but was offside. Everton had the best of matters, and five minutes from time Settle scored.
Result; Everton 2 Preston North End 1

FOOTBALL JOTTINGS
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 26 October 1904
Bee
Everton will meet former clubmates on Saturday in their visit to Blackburn Rovers; Wolstenholme, who formed one of three clever half-backs of last season, and Birchall and Bowman, both former acquaintances. The Rovers with their mighty defence of Crompton and Cameron backs and McIver or Evans under the crossbar were at the outset of the season, favourable for the honours of the League. They have given in and out displays which mark them ass unreliable. They were most unlucky in failing to draw the full blood out of Derby County at the Baseball ground on Saturday last; yet they could only manage to draw with a team of the capabilities of Woolwich, at Ewood Park, too. At home they lost to the present leaders of the League and against the erratic Nottingham Forest lost by 5 goals to 2. Crompton’s best work has always been for the Rovers and he was capped versus Ireland, Scotland, Wales in 1902, and Scotland and Wales 1902-3, 1903-4. He has been England’s most consistent back. With so sturdy a defence the Everton men will find it most difficult to put the ball into the net. Long shots, similar to that with which Abbott equalised last week, might be of advantage.
For the match at Blackburn, Everton will rely on the same side which overcame the Villa. Booth’s progress to recovery is very slow indeed, and Sharp has not yet righted himself.

EVERTON RECORDS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 27 October 1904
Bee
The Everton contest with Blackburn Rovers is being generally considered by their favourites as a very stiff stile to scale. The Rovers team on paper, is a hot combination, and one begins to wonder how the sharp passing movements will hold against the powerful defence pitted against them. We shall see. Personally, I favour the Rovers chance of victory, believing that the Everton forwards will be cleared off the ball much more readily than have been the unfrequent cases recently. By the way, Crelly has been displaying wonderfully good tackling powers this season. The manner in which he has broken up promising looking attacks has bene pleasant to behold. His nipping in the bud mannerings have been alike to the style adopted by the half in front of him. The Blues have generally found the Rovers too effective for them when visiting Ewood, as the following record of their meetings there shows;- Played 16; Rovers won 9, lost 4, drawn 3. In all, the teams have net on thirty-two occasions, the state of the poll up to the present being; Rovers won 13, lost 12, draw 7.  

OUTDOORS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 29 October 1904
Everton are due at Blackburn, where they won twelve months ago by a couple of goals. They are at the top of their form now, and there should be a rare struggle at Ewood, for the Rovers are recovering from their temporary lapse, as was foreshadowed a week ago at Derby. Everton are, however, a better team, taken all round, than their opponents, and their forwards should harass the Rovers’ defence, strong though the latter undoubtedly is. This is where Everton should show to advantage and as their defence is undeniably most reliable, they should manage to avert defeat. A draw seems the most probable result of this encounter, though the Rovers are bound to make a great effort to prove that their form at Derby was not a mere flash on the pan.
Blackburn Rovers v Everton….Fred Kirkham, R.H. Wadge and J. Smith.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards. Train leaves Exchange Station at 12.35 p.m. Kick-off 3 p.m.
The Lancashire Combination Division A
Everton v Blackburn Rovers, Goodison Park.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, A.N. Other, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards. Reserve McAdam. Kick-off 3 p.m.

BLACKBURN v  EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 29 October 1904
ONE GOAL VICTORY FOR THE HOME TEAM
MANY CHANCES THROWN AWAY
By “Ranger.”
The meeting of two Lancashire organisations is a circumstance which generally creates a large amount of interest in Blackburn. The keen anticipation of this event was shown by the number of enthusiasts who made Ewood Park their destination. The old-time rivalry existing between the Rovers and Everton has always been noticeable, and to-day’s match proved no exception to the rule. There are many factors which in the past have provided personal touches in their fixtures. On numerous occasions interchange of players has taken place. Booth, the Everton captain, who was, however, absent, was an old Rover, whilst Wolstenholme’s name is always remembered along with that of Tom Booth and Abbott, who was also absent in connection with a brillaint intermediate line. Now he figures with the Rovers. Local supporters were delighted that Whittaker once more occupied his old position. He was not taken part in a match since September 24th and his reappearance was expected to stimulate his comrades. Birchall had also recovered this displacing Moir at centre-half. Still another change was made, Dewhurst acting as pivot of the attack vice Pentland. It was a perfect autumn day, the sun taking the edge off the keen frosty air. Vehicles of every description were required to convey spectators to the ground. When the players entered the arena fully 12,000 spectators were assembled. Teams;-
Rovers.- McIver, goal; Crompton (captain) and Cameron, backs; Wolstenholme, Birchall, and Bradshaw, half-backs; Whittaker, Smith, Dewhurst, Watson, and Blackburn, forwards.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain), and Crelly, backs; S. B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.  Referee; Mr. F. Kirkham, Preston.
Everton did not appear in their regular colours which are somewhat similar to the Rovers, an arrangement having been arrived at when the Blackburn team visited Everton, that they should change colours. Crompton lost the toss, but as there was very little wind the advantage was only slight. In the first moments of the game the Rovers advanced on the left, and it took Balmer all his time to check Blackburn when the ball was lifted over to the other wing. Whittaker took a header at it, and there was a sigh of disappointment as the leather went high over the crossbar. The Rovers were playing very smart football, their passing being exceptionally good. By this means they were more often aggressive than the visitors, and when Whittaker had swung the ball into the centre of the field Balmer took a flying kick and cleared. The ball travelled right up the field to Cameron, who steadied and then took a terrible lunge. The ball only passed a yard off the upright. The game had been in progress seven minutes, and during that time the home men had been the more dangerous. A series of free kicks against the Rovers jeopardised their goal. One was well placed, and had not Crompton acted on the spur of the moment in effecting a clearance Hardman would have landed the ball home from close quarters. Mr. Kirkham was keen on any infringement of the laws, and when he gave a foul in favour of the Rovers Whittaker made poor use of a clear field on the right. A rather exciting incident was witnessed at the other extremely when Rankin shot at goal. The ball did not go straight to McIver, and the custodian, running out to clear, had McDermott and Hardman as his opponents. By some means or other he knocked the leather back to Crompton who relieved all anxiety by a long punt. A smart kick forward by Smith saw Balmer send into touch owing to too close attention from Dewhurst. A fine centre by Whittaker was gathered by his confreres on the left. The Everton full back, however, did not allow the grass to grow under his feet, and placed out of the playing area. A brilliant individual touch by Smith gave Whittaker the ball, and instantly he drove for goal, but luckily for the visitors the ball cannoned off a defender. Next it was in the possession of Birchall, who followed the example set by the Blackburn native. Watson noted that the ball was deviating from its course, and charged at it too hard, for it travelled too far to afford Whittaker the desired opportunity. It looked certain that the Everton charge would fall when more than a couple of defenders missed the ball and it passed on to Smith. He rounded Crelly and was only three or four yards from Scott, the keeper. To the amazement of the 14,000 spectators he shot high over the bar, and the brightest opportunity the game had thus far produced had gone a-begging. Rankin, by a fine solo effort, got the ball well down the field, but superior numbers told against him. The ball had no sooner gone into touch than McDermott was seen limping to the touch-line. While he was off the playing pitch Watson missed a glorious chance, and Smith failed to take advantage of a splendid corner kick by Whittaker. The injured player now resumed, and a centre by Rankin was headed by Wolstenholme to the foot of Young whose final aim was miserably out of the line. The spectators were anxiously awaiting a goal, but instead of their anticipations being realised the leather would have been netted in the home goal following a corner kick had it not been for a neat bit of footwork by Crompton. An accurate centre by Hardman from the corner flag compelled McIver to jump from beneath the bar to lift the ball out of danger. In this he did not fully succeed, but fortunately Cameron did the needful. A pass from Smith was fully utilised by Whittaker, but when the latter drove in the leather, Watson came off second best against Scott. Whittaker made a shocking miskick, the ball, instead of travelling straight for goal, twisting in the other direction. The outside right dribbled into such a position that a goal seemed imminent. Dewhurst attempted to make amend for his colleague’s error by driving in a low shot, which was saved at the expense of a corner. At the other end Hardman sent in a daisy cutter, which he failed to seize. Quick as lightning he regained other posture, and before the Everton men had time to charge him the ball was soaring away above their heads. A mistake by Balmer might have proved very costly had not Scott been left in the position of fisting out. The interval was near at hand, and each side strove valiantly to get ahead before the whistle sounded, but in vain.
Half-time- Rovers 0 Everton 0
During the interval the contingent of Everton spectators made merry with spasmodic cheering and vocal efforts, to the accompaniment of bugle calls. The attendance by now must have number close on 15,000. The Rovers immediately after the restart took up the attack, and after Scott had made a good clearance, Wolstenholme returned into his hands. The custodian did not waver, and sent will up the field. The Rovers were now desperately in earnest and when after four minutes play Smith was seen dribbling the ball within the penalty area the spectators yelled with delight. The ex-Prestonian fired at Scott, but there was no room to shoot, and before there was time to recover Whittaker had a cannoned into the net, amidst terrific cheers. the Rovers were very active after this. Play was subsequently transferred, but the backs were not to be easily bested, though Crompton had once to indulge in high kicking close in. encouraged by their lead, the Rovers pile on more sail, and the Mersey defenders were given more trouble. A sudden dash by the visitors, now ever, made the spectators anxious for Hardman delivered a grand shot. The midget custodian was on the alert, and got the ball in his embrace. The Blue and Whites kept up the pressure, but Watson was wide with a long kick. The visitors ultimately got away, a sprint by Rankin boding danger. Cameron endeavouring to get the ball away, but failed, and the winger supported by colleagues, made onward, but Bradshaw came up and by some neat manoeuvring, mastered his foemen, Rankin was a clever exponent, but in Bradshaw he found a superior, for the latter, oftener than not, took the ball from his feet. One could not be satisfied with the shotting, for innumerable blunders had been committed during the afternoon. No sooner had the last sentence been penned than Young sent yards wide, when on the penalty line, and plumb in front of the goal. The players made many endeavours to get to close quarters, but seldom for many minutes did they get over the penalty line. Whittaker essayed a long shot which unfortunately passed over. Rankin raced down the field, but Wolstenholme was his match and the attack was nullified.  His comrade on the left, Hardman, got the ball in on another occasion. There being no Everton player near at hand. McIver easily negotiated the leather. The spectators as a whole, however, displayed less enthusiasm than hitherto, although when Dewhurst struck the upright there was a roar which indicated that they, like Oliver Twist, wanted more. The Rovers were to a certain extent monopolising the game, Scott finding business exceedingly brisk. Five minutes from the close McDermott shot wide. The play was instantly transferred. Crelley was glad to give a corner in order to check a forward movement by Dewhurst. The Rovers continued to hover round their opponents’ charge, and Whittaker dropped in a magnificent shot which Scott only partly stopped. The ball dropped from his grasp and appeared as if it would pass between the posts, but it rolled along the right side of the line. Scott and Blackburn each raced to gain possession, but though the latter planted the ball into the centre of the field opposite the goal, a point did not accrue. Then the whistle went. Result Rovers 1 Everton 0.

EVERTON v  BALCKBURN ROVERS
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 29 October 1904

LEAGUE DIVISION 1
A FRUITLESS FIRST HALF
After their handsome victory over Aston Villa at Goodison Park last Saturday, the Everton eleven travelled to Blackburn to-day full of the brightest anticipations. The famous Rovers have in the past shared in many strenuous struggles with the Evertonians, but the latter as a rule have cut a very formidable figure when performing at Ewood Park. Last season the Goodison Park brigade secured a two goals to nothing victory, and it was generally expected that they would make a bold bid for achieving similar honours this afternoon. The team, accompanied by several directors, and quite a large number of club supporters, left Exchange Station at noon. Blackburn being reached in good time. The weather was delightfully mild and fine, and as a consequence there was a large turn out of local enthusiasts. There was only one change in the composition of the visitors’ team from last week. Walter Abbott strained his injured leg last Monday and was perforce and absentee, his place being filled by that extremely useful player Makepeace. Prompt to time the teams faced each other in the following order;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain), and Crelly, backs; S. B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards
Blackburn Rovers.- McIver, goal; Crompton (captain) and Cameron, backs; Wolstenholme, Birchall, and Bradshaw, half-backs; Whittaker, Smith, Dewhurst, Watson, and Blackburn, forwards.  Referee; Mr. F. Kirkham, Preston.

As will be seen, the home team were at full strength. There was a gathering of at least 12,000 spectators when play began. Balmer won the toss, and he elected to play with the sun behind him. Dewhurst set the ball in motion, and the home left running down in determined fashion, Blackburn put in a stiff shot, which was intercepted in the nick of time by the Everton captain. Following upon this Everton advanced and Hardman, running down in clever and tricky fashion, was bowled over just as he was about to shoot. The referee promptly awarded a free kick, but this was cleared by the home backs, and for some time after this play was centred near the middle line. Both teams were smart on the ball, and some very pretty passing was seen, but for a time, after this play was centred near the middle line. Both teams were smart on the ball, and some very pretty passing was seen, but for a time neither side gained any appreciable advantage. Whittaker at length got possession and ran through but he was splendidly checked by Balmer, and play again ruled in the centre. The home forwards, however, gradually made ground and Cameron racing through sent in a swift shot which just skimmed the crossbar. The play so far had been exceptionally even, the advantage lying with neither side, and at this period a series of throws in robbed the game of some of its interest. All the same, the pace was so fast as to keep up the excitement, which became doubly keen when Ashworth from a free kick put the ball in the goalmouth. Hardman rushed up, and was about to net the leather, when Crompton, by a splendid effort, jumped in and cleared. The next movement of interest was a break away on the part of the home right, but Whittaker was in a magnificent position when he put the ball over the line. Everton in turn took up the attack, but the Blackburn backs were not to be caught napping, and play was transferred to the other end. The visitors, however, were most persistent, and Hardman, getting down, passed to McDermott, who headed just outside. The cleverness of both elevens, judged by the standard of neat and finished footwork, was unmistakeable, but many of the most effective movements on both sides were spoiled by high kicking, the ball being in the air far too often. The home team now began to enjoy rather the best of the argument, and both Balmer and Crelly for several minutes had all their work cut out, but the shooting lacked accuracy on more than one occasion and this weakness of course favoured the Everton defence. The Rovers nevertheless, kept pegging away in the most determined manner, and a long low drive by Birchall passed just outside the upright, keeping up the pressure, the home side proved extremely dangerous, and a nice combined movement brought the Blackburn forwards close to Scott, but the effectiveness of the whole was spoiled when Smith, from short range, shot over the bar. There was no doubt that Everton at this particular time were being overplayed, and it was only the sterling quality of the defence that averted disaster on two occasion. Hardman, who was playing in his usual lion-hearted style, tried to make ground, but met more than cleared splendidly, his match in the ever-vigilant Crompton, who Everton at length assumed the aggressive, and they were busy in the home territory when McDermott was injured, but he was speedily back in his place again. A few minutes later the visitors returned to the attack in promising fashion, and Young had a grand opportunity of scoring, when he sent the ball outside. The Everton centre evidently appreciated the fact that he had made a mistake, for he put forth double energy and working his way through sent in a glorious shot, which the custodian just managed to save at the expense of a corner. This was brilliantly cleared by Crompton, and the succeeding stages ruled in favour of the Rovers, who got down on the left; but Watson shot rather feebly. Everton in turn took up the running, and Taylor tried a pot shot from long range, but nothing came of it. The Rovers once more began to assert themselves, and, thanks mainly to Wolstenholme, who was playing a great game against his old colleagues, the home forwards were put in possession. Whittaker put in a stinger which Scott dealt with admirably, and a minute later, from a free kick, Crompton put the leather right in the home goalmouth; but the movement was nullified by Whittaker finally putting the ball outside. There was no disguising the fact that the Blackburn men were now enjoying all the best of the play, and there was a distinct element of ill-luck in their scoring upon at least one occasion. As the interval approached Everton put forward redoubled efforts to gain a lead, and a splendid breakaway on the left ended in Hardman shooting swift and straight to McIver, who effected a marvellous clearance. Nothing daunted by this, the visitors once more moved forward in businesslike fashion, and young put in a swift attempts, which only failed by a matter of inches. The Rovers replied by exerting themselves to the utmost and just before half time, it seemed certain that they would score, but the final shots all lacked direction, and at the interval the state of the game was;-
Everton nil, Rovers nil
DEFEAT OF EVERTON
On resumption that Everton front line attacked in determined fashion. Crompton coming to the rescue of the home team on several occasions. The Rovers had a look in, O. Smith raced away; Balmer tackled him but was beaten, and the home forward put in a shot which struck the custodian and rebounded to Whittaker, who scored for the Rovers after five minutes of the second half had passed. Spurred on by this success, the Rovers’ forwards swarmed round the visitors’ goal, Bradshaw sending in a lightning shot, which the visiting custodian got away cleverly. Everton soon went on the offensive again, and severely tested the home defence, Cameron making a desperate attempt to get the ball away from  the home left. Rovers pressed vigorously for the greater part of the second half, but the visitors’ forwards were several times very dangerous, and Hardman once hit the crossbar with a terrific shot.
Final Result; Blackburn Rovers 1 goal, Everton Nil.
Everton gained the verdict by 2 goals to nil; at Blackburn last season.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION.-DIV A            
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 29 October 1904
EVERTON RES v  BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVE
There was a fairly good crowd at Goodison Park to witness the above match, which was played under perfect conditions. Teams;-
Everton; Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, McLoughlin, McAdam, Caldwell, and Evans, forwards.
Rovers; yates, goal; McDowell and Riley, backs; Parson, Eastham, and Moir, half backs; Moore, Brindle, Pentland, Bowman, and Dawson, forwards.
Everton started with the sun in their eyes, but the Rovers were the first to show up, and Kitchen saved from Brindle. Subsequently the Blues forced the play, and for some few minutes the game was wholly in the Rovers half. McLoughlin was responsible for a warm shot, and later Yates cleared after close pressure. Play opened out again, the Rovers making several advances without threatening any great danger. Pentland made a couple of runs, but lacked support, and was bundled off the ball at the finish. At the other end the Evertonians once raided the Rovers’ goal, and a hot attack almost culminated in a score, but Yates when hard pressed, put the ball behind. The corner was cleared and the Rovers got away again, but Wildman and Balmer accounted for them. Later on Evans sent in a long shot which Yates caught beautifully, but a moment afterwards McAdam shot wide. Everton had much the best of play at this stage, but were poor in front of goal. Roberts twice sent wildly over the line when well placed, and for some time the whole line seemed dead off the target. A rush by the Rovers ended in Moores getting possession and, with a brillaint, low drive, he brought Kitchen to his knees; but the home keeper cleared. A few moments later Evans crossed to McAdam, who ran in, and a scrimmage ensued in front of goal from which McLoughlin opened Everton’s score. Even play followed, but the Blues were not long in getting in front again, and McLoughlin again put the ball pass Yates, who had no chance of saving. Everton continued to hold the whip hand up to the interval, though once Kitchen saved smartly.
Half-time Everton 2 goals, Rovers nil.
In the second half McLoughlin scored the third goal for Everton.
Final; Everton Reserve 3 goals, Blackburn Rovers nil.

BLACKBURN ROVERS 1 EVERTON 0
October 31, 1904. The Liverpool Courier.
Everton on Saturday visited Blackburn where they have played many great games with the famous Rovers. Unfortunately injuries to players again prevented them placing their full strength in the field. Sharp had not recovered, and Walter Abbott was feeling the effect of another knock sustained last Monday on his old injury. Consequently Rankin and Makepeace again appeared. The Rovers were strongly represented. The teams were : - Rovers: - McIvor, goal, Crompton, and Cameron, backs, Wolstenholme, Birchall, and Bradshaw, half-backs Whittaker, Smith, Dewhurst, Watson, and Blackburn, forwards, Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle and Hardman forwards. Referee Fred Kirkham. There were about, 12,000 spectators present when play began, the first item of interest initiated by Wolstenholme was furnished by the home left, and just as Blackburn was about to put on a finishing touch Balmer nipped in and cleared in able fashion. The Everton left wing pair then made headway by a well devised plan of campaign between Settle and Hardman, which came to an end on Crompton taking a pass intended for Settle, and punting strongly down the field. The visitors however, returned to the attack only again to find the Rovers' defenders in rare trim, and the venue was changed. The home forwards went away in fine style, and when success seemed imminent, Crelly pulled up Whittaker, and cleared the danger in good style. Ashworth had been putting in some good work, and a clever forward pass to Rankin enabled that player to show a clean pair of heels to the home halves. He finished with a fast cross centre, but luckily for the Rovers McIvor raced out and got to the ball in time. Some more exchanges in midfield ruled for some little time, when the first Taylor and then Makepeace completely outwitted the Rovers forwards and eventually placed Hardman in possession. Much headway was made, but on the winger centering Young failed to take the ball and Cameron cleared. Wolstemholme found a perfect opening for Smith, but much to the disgust of the local supporters the chance went a-begging. Dashing movements by the Rovers forwards kept both Balmer and Crelly fully extended to their best efforts. The Monotony was broken by a smart run down by Hardman, but he had no chance against Crompton, who cleverly trapped the ball, and then kicked away in powerful fashion. The next item was a smart sprint by Rankin but he too was eventually beaten by Cameron, and directly afterwards McDermott collided with an opponent and was off for a few minutes. A further attack by the Rovers yielded fruitless corner kick, and following this Everton lost a capital chance of taking the lead, Taylor had put the ball out to Rankin, who raced away, and sent across to Hardman. The latter on centring gave Young a capital opening, but unfortunately he was very wide of the mark with his shot. The Everton centre, however, was prominent in a further attack, and his finishing touch would certainly have found the net had not McIvor with a masterly efforts just put the ball outside at the expense of a corner kick, which came to nothing. Soon afterwards the Rovers burst away in irresistible fashion and Whittaker sent in a rasping shot, which Scott just managed to reach, and from his clearance the Everton forwards raced to within a few yards of the home line, where Young was penalised for offside, and from the free kick Whittaker got away, but finished up with a very wide shot. Almost immediately the Everton goal was again in danger, but Scott came to the rescue, by saving brilliantly from Watson. Then followed a fine movement, in which Rankin played an important part. After defeating Bradshaw he had the beating of Cameron, and put across to Hardman. The last named sent in a splendid low shot, which brought McIvor to his knees, and following this Young just skimmed the upright with a capital effort. Half-time Rovers nil, Everton nil.
After the interval the Everton forwards attacked in a determined manner, and several times Crompton was prominent with fine clearances. Then the Rovers got away, and Smith in a tussle with Balmer got the better of the visiting defenders and put in a shot, which rebounded, from the custodian, and Whittaker without hesitation banged the ball into the net, amid loud cheering. After this success the Rovers crowned round the Everton goal, and Bradshaw put in lighting shot, which Scott got away cleverly. Everton were soon on the offensive again, and Cameron had once more to make desperate efforts in order to get the ball away from the visiting forwards. Play continued to be contested with great keenness, and while Everton made many praiseworthy efforts to open their score, the Rovers were frequently dangerous but found Scott in fine form. The Rovers backs were generally too good for the visitors, and in the closing stages the Rovers held the upper hand. The defence was however, more than equal to the attack, and although Everton made efforts near the end they failed to score. Result Blackburn Rovers 1 goal, Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 BLACKBURN ROVERS RESERVES 0
October 31, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 9)
At Goodison Park. From the centre MjcLoughlin headed past Yates, registering the first goal of the match after 33 minutes play. The same player added another from long range. Interval Everton 2, Rovers nil. After the resumption the Blues held the upper hand, and Yates charge had several narrow escapes. Then McLoughlin scored his third goal, Result Everton 3, Rovers nil. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, W.Wildman, and R.Balmer backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Makepeace half-backs, Roberts, McLoughlin, A.N.Other, Caldwell, and Dilly forwards, forwards.

ROVERS SUPERIOR TO EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 31 October 1904
With their return to full strength the Rovers have regained much of their earlier good form, and the victory over Everton gave their supporters great pleasure. The forwards made several mistakes in front of goal, but there were some excellent efforts; and Scott, the Everton custodian had ample opportunity of giving a rare display in goal. The Irish International showed himsel;f a really expert goalkeeper. Dewhurst improved on his previous form, and in common fairness one is bound to say that the advance was sufficiently marked to justify a further trail. The home attack was distinctly superior toi that of Everton. Blackburn's consistency is nothing short of remarkable. Week after week he is still in the same fine form, and the Rovers wing pair against Everton were a credit to the club. Crompton played a grand game at back. His fearless tackling and precise placing were conspicious features in his sterling performance. All round the Blues and Whites were strong, and man for man they were superior to the Mersey combination.

EVERTON REVIEW
October 31, 190. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton on Saturday failed to repeat their last season's victory at Ewood Park but, although they lost by a goal to nil, there was nothing whatever, discreditable about their defeat. As a matter of fact, the game was one of the most strenuously contested encounters in which Everton have been engaged since the opening of the season. It did not produce the exactitude and brilliance of the Everton forwards, which displayed in the match with Wolverhampton Wanderers neither, was it so full of life, and intense excitement as was the case when the Villa visited Goodison Park. At the same time, it was always interesting and brimful of really good football. For once in a way the Rovers were enabled to place their strongest eleven in the field. Lately they have suffered not a little from injuries to players and the consequence has been that the early promise, which suggested that the Rovers were one of the most powerful sides in the League, had not quite been bourne out. On Saturday's form however, it is evident that many of the clubs besides Everton will leave points behind them after appearing on the well-known enclosure of the Blackburn club. While the conditions were in favour of the Rovers, their opponents were in the unfortunate position of being without three of their most valuable representatives. Sharp was still unfit for active duty, but the most signals chance occurred in the half-back line. For many seasons no Everton team could be said to be representative less, Wolstenholmes Booth, and Abbott constituted the first line of defence. Wolstenholme of course has forsaken his old club and joined the Rovers, and with Booth and Abbott suffering from injuries the Everton trio was composed of Ashworth Taylor and Makepeace. These three on the whole performed very creditably, but one missed the quite yet effective and telling work of the clever artistes whose names have already been mentioned. As if to show that he has lost none of the ability which brought him into such prominence whilst he was with Everton. Wolstenholme had evidently laid himself out to nonplus the efforts of the visiting left wing. In this he succeeded admirably and his enthusiasm seemed to impart itself into the work of his colleagues, Birchall and Bradshaw. Indeed its not in the nature of exaggeration to suggest that finer half-back play has rarely been seen this season than that for which the Rovers halves were responsible. So much were they in evidence that little surprise may be felt at the comparative ineptitude of the Everton attack. They had few opportunities of shinning in as much as the plan of campaign resorted to by the three masterly half-backs of the Rovers left them practically no chance of indulging in anything like combined efforts.
The first half although unproductive in the matter of scoring was contested in earnest and vigorous fashion. There were many instances of ready admirable footwork, and both goalkeeper had shots to save which might have worried less experienced custodian. Apart from the excellent tactics of the Blackburn halves, one was in pressed by the altogether skilful and resourceful exhibition of Crompton. Cameron a left back, who can tackle well, and kick with great power, but he is not a Crompton, and on more than one occasion the Rovers captain successfully came is the rescue of his colleagues when danger threatened. If only Rankin had been able to join to his speed's capacity for reasonable manipulation of the ball, the probability is that when Crompton's alertness would not have saved his side. The goal, which gave the Rovers a well-deserved victory, was the outcome of a brilliant bit of work by Dewhurst. At the same time although it may seem paradoxical the goal itself was somewhat lucky. If Scott had been beaten when the ball was first shot into him, no one could have complained, and it was distinctly unfortunate, so far as the custodian was concerned, that a particualy clever save should have landed the ball at the foot of Whittaker, who had no difficulty whatever in placing into the net. This not with standing, the Rovers claimed the honour and deservedly so. The were unquestionably the better-balanced side, and each member of the team worked with an earnestness which presages many more victories. It is difficult to find fault with any individual Everton player. Each one of the eleven's obviously put his whole soul into the game, but it was an occasion when the best directed efforts failed to assimilate. It faults there be, it rested mainly with the vanguard. Young had an offday, with the result that the whole course of the Everton attack was ragged and ineffective. Hardman had a rare handiful to face in Wolstenholme, and Crompton, and, although he could make the impression upon those stalwarts he had at least the satisfaction of being able to claim that he was responsible for the most dangerous shot, which McIvor had to negotiate. Without being at all brilliant, the halves rendered useful service, the weakest of the trio being the ex-Stoke amateur-Ashworth. Balmer and Crelly came through a mass of work with infinite credit and Scott once again showed that he is a custodian of the front rank.

McLOUGHLIN’S THREE GOALS FOR EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 31 October 1904
The match between Everton and the Rovers ended in favour of the former by three clear goals.  McLoughlin was responsible for them all, scoring two before the interval, and one afterwards.  Although beaten, the Rovers’ forwards combined well, and their only weakness was in finishing.  On the other hand, Everton, or rather McLoughlin snatched every opportunity of putting on goals, and Yates, the visitors’ custodian, was kept busy.  The defence of Everton was sound, Kitchen making some good saves, whilst in front of him.  Wildman tackled well and kicked sturdily.  In addition to gaining all the goals, McLoughlin played a good game throughout and seems likely to prove a more than average recruit. 

REVIVAL MEETING AT BLACKBURN
Athletic News - Monday 31 October 1904
By Harricus
Blackburnians were on good terms with themselves on Saturday night, for the Rovers had won their first match since September 17-reckon up the number of weeks if you like-and moreover their victory of 1-0 over Everton was the conversion of a 2-0 defeat from the corresponding match of last season.  Therefore, I say, there was every satisfaction in places where football enthusiasts do congregate after the game.  Everton are always an attraction at Ewood Park, and despite the fact that there were matches at Preston, Accrington, and Darwen, which are looked upon as gathering grounds, the gate receipts were 336 pounds, which makes an attendance of over 13,000.  Everton looked a strange lot in their slate and white striped jerseys, and would have created a stronger contrast to the blue and white halves of their opponents had they borrowed the reds shirts of their Anfield neighbours.  They could not get going for some time; neither could the Rovers for the matter of that.  Fully twenty minutes ere there was any incident of note, and then Bradshaw completed some nice play with a capital cross which gave the forwards a splendid opportunity, but Smith shot over.  There was just another such incident at the other end, Rankin running well in and centring nicely only to see Young fail as Smith had done.  Again both outside men created openings, and from one cross by Rankin, Hardman put in a fine shot, McIvor saving equally as well, indeed neither custodian could be beaten up to half-time.  The second half had, however, not been in progress five minutes when the first and only goal of the match was recorded, and a worthy goal of the match was recorded, and a worthy goal it was, too.  Dewhurst deserves much of the credit of it by his doggedness.  He drove the ball right at Scott from whom it rebounded to Whitaker, who made no mistake in netting.  The feature of the second half were two masterly shots by exponents of either side.  In the first place, Hardman sent in a curler, which apparently looked like going over, but the ball dropped dead against the cross-bar, and again Dewhurst did just the same thing at the other end, the ball receiving a coating of white-wash.  Another few inches would have meant a goal to both teams.  But the narrowest squeak of all came just a few minutes from the finish, when Whittaker put across the ball at a rasping rate, and all that Scott could do was to divert its progress as it sped across the goal.  So far as the points were concerned, they went to the right side, for they surely asserted their superiority in the closing half.  Everton certainly held their own up to the interval, but it cannot be said that the play generally was of a very high standard in the first half.  The scoring of the goal seemed to put fresh life into the play.  The Rovers determined to retain their lead, and their opponents anxious to equalize it, with the result that the spectators were kept in an uncertain frame of mind; but the heat of the sun, or some other cause, had a tiring effect on the Evertonians, for they could not keep up with home team, who, as I said, thoroughly deserved their welcome win.  They had undoubtedly a good team to beat, and they did it without the assistance of any luck.  They held their own when Everton were going strong, and when they gained the lead they kept it because of their superiority.  McIvor had not a great deal to do, but he showed that he is an adept in the art of goalkeeping, and to my mind he should be kept in the team even when Evans has recovered Little “Mac” has somehow always had to battle against circumstances, and now that he has had a two months’ run in the team his claim for the fixed position should be recognized.  Robert Crompton was really unbeatable.  He is said to be off colour occasionally, but I do not happen to see him that way.  He fairly held Hardman, who seldom sparkled and yet the burly Rovers’ captain was as gentle as a lamb with the amateur.  Cameron, somehow, was not very happy.  He did some smart things, but he was not sure in his kicking nor in his tackling; indeed, his play on the whole compared very favourably with that of Crompton’s.  The star of the half-backs undoubtedly was Wolstenholme, who was in great form against his colleagues for several years past.  There is no doubt about it, he is the stamp of player who contributes to our international games.  Bradshaw was also in great form, his tackling and placing, as usual, being of the highest standard, while he rather surprised me with his sprinting abilities.  He has only received the first of his honours.  Birchall was indeed a strange mixture.  In the first half he played a great game, often securing the ball when it seemed impossible but in the second half he could scarcely do anything right.  Strange is it not?  On the other hand, Lionel Watson seemed only in the way in the first half, and yet fairly came out of his shell after the interval, his wide passes being most serviceable to his side.  Whittaker was a very dangerous forward, crossing the ball with accuracy time after time, and Dewhurst proved that he has not lost his ability.  In the Everton goal Scott had more work to do than his vis-à-vis, and he maintained his high standard, and both backs were strong; indeed, I know of no better cover goal than Balmer.  The absence of Booth and Abbott from the half-back line was doubtless weakening to that division, but no man could have improved on the work of the veteran Dumbartonian, Taylor, who was in the centre,.  I do not suppose he minds where he plays.  The amateur Ashworth whose forte is polish, made a good right half, while Makepeace is a useful reserve, though he would hardly do as a regular man.  The three inside forwards did not work to the same effect as they did at Bury, for they made plenty of headway in the first half, but the sun must have put them out of their paces.  Hardman had too much to face in Wolstenholme and Crompton, but Rankin was not merely a sprinter on Saturday.  He out-maneuvered Cameron more than once and put the ball into the goalmouth, though he might have shot straight for goal once or twice when he got clear away.  Blackburn Rovers; McIvor; Crompton (Captain), Cameron; Wolstenholme, Birchall, Bradshaw; Whittaker, Smith, Dewhurst, Watson, and Blackburn.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; S.B. Ashworth, Taylor, Makepeace; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee; F. Kirkham, Preston. 

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 31 October 1904
Everton’s visit to Blackburn on Saturday resulted in the loss of a couple of points, but though beaten the visitors were by no means disgraced. The game was a fast and exciting one throughout, and, all things considered, the Rovers thoroughly deserved their victory. Their forward play was much better than that of their opponents, and in the other departments they generally held the advantage. In considering the general trend of the play one must remember that the Evertonians were handicapped by the absence of Booth and Abbott, the result being that the half back line was scarcely up to concert pitch. The Blackburn halves on the other hand; were in fine form, and time after time they broke up the attempts of combination on the part of the visiting forwards. And whenever the latter did succeed in getting down, they found themselves opposed to two sterling defenders in the persons of Crompton and Cameron. In the first half, neither side succeeded in netting the ball, but on crossing over the Rovers accrued an exceedingly clever goal, through the instrumentality of Whittaker. After this the home team played up with remarkable vigour, and for the rest of the game they always held the whip hand of their opponents. Altogether as we have already intimated the Blackburn eleven were distinctly the clever side. Turning to individual play, Young and the two wing men were probably the best of the forwards. The centre man had several attempts at goals, but his shots invariably lacked accuracy of direction. Rankin was always a tryer, but his efforts were not attended by any success, while Hardman was completely bottled up by Crompton. The halves were not in their happens vein, and it was only the vigilance of Balmer and Crelly, backed by splendid goalkeeping on the part of Scott, that prevented a larger margin of goals being scored. On Saturday’s form the Rovers are a most formidable lot.

BLACKBURN ROVERS v  EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 31 October 1904
At Blackburn, before 12,000 spectators. The Rovers were at full strength, but Everton lacked Sharp, Booth, and Abbott, whose places were taken by Rankin, Taylor, and Makepeace. Everton won the toss, and had the breeze behind them in the first half. Play was of a very moderate order. Both sides had their shares of play, but both sets of forwards missed exceedingly easy chances when well placed.
Interval – No goals.
On resuming, the Rovers at once pressed, Smith got through the defence, and his final shot cannoned off the goalkeeper to Whittaker who score the first point. Each side pressed hard afterwards, and Hardman and Dewhurst had hard lines with magnificent shots, which hit the bar. Towards the close the Rovers had the best of matters, and Scott made a miraculous save from a low fast shot by Whittaker.
Result Blackburn Rovers 1 Everton 0. 
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (Captain), and Crelly, backs; S. B. Ashworth, Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards
Blackburn Rovers.- McIver, goal; Crompton (captain) and Cameron, backs; Wolstenholme, Birchall, and Bradshaw, half-backs; Whittaker, Smith, Dewhurst, Watson, and Blackburn, forwards.  Referee; Mr. F. Kirkham, of Preston.