WHITLEY TO STOKE
Nottingham Evening Post - Thursday 01 September 1904
At the eleveth hour L.R. Roose, who took part in a practice match at Stoke last Saturday, has expressed his intention of not playing again for the "Potters" The Stoke management at once looked out for another goalkeeper, and persuaded Everton to part with whitley, the quondam Aston Villa player. Whitley will play against Derby County today.

WHITLEY LEAVES EVERTON FOR STOKE
September 1, 1904. The Liverpool Daily Post
Now that the Everton have signed on Scott, as goalkeeper, a pussle seemed to arise as to where Whitley would play, as Kitchen would be among the Reserve men. Now, however, this pussle is solve, for Whitley has been transferred to Stoke at a substantial fee.

WHITLEY LEAVES EVERTON FOR STOKE
Liverpool Daily Post - Thursday 01 September 1904
Now that the Everton F.C have signed on Scott as goalkeeper, a puzzle seemed to arise as to where Whitley would play, as Kitchen would be among the reserve men. Now, however, this puzzle is solved, for Whitley has bene transferred to Stoke at a substantial fee, Roose and Wilkes were the usual goalkeepers for the Potters last year, but Roose has left them now. Wilkes was transferred from Aston Villa, and Whitley came to Everton from the Birmingham club.
The Everton practice matches resulted in £123 being allocated to the Stanley Hospital and the Hospital Saturday fund.
The team against Notts County will be;-
Scott; Palmer and Crelly; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
Versus Linfield, on the 5th at Goodison Park, it will be;- Scott; Wildman and McCartney; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly.
STANLEY HOSPITAL
The Hon treasurer (Mr. Oswald Dobell) acknowledges from the directors of the Everton Football Club the sum of £58 12s 9d towards the funds of this institution being half the net takings of the practice matches held at Goodison Park on the 23rd and 27th ult.

LIVERPOOL NEW COTTON EXCHANGE
Liverpool Mercury - Friday 02 September 1904
Having purchased over an acre of land an “island” site in central thoroughfares the Liverpool Cotton Association, whose temporary quarters since 1896 have been in Brown’s-buildings Exchange and Rumford streets is about to erect for the business of its members permanent Exchange.  The Association has expended £141,500 in buying up the necessary properties rights on the site, which extends from Oldhall-street to Bixteth-street (close to Exchange Railway Station) from Ormond-street to Edmund-street.  The purchase involved, on account of questions of light the acquisition of City-buildings Oldhall-street for £26,500 and Lombard-chambers in Bixteth-street for £12,000.  Oldhall-street to which the principal elevation will stand, was so named, it may be remarked, after the Old Hall of the Moores and it was the street the Royalist besiegers found their way into Liverpool in the days of Prince Rupert. As a preliminary to the proposed building liberal premiums were offered to architects for competitive designs of a Cotton Exchange, and 24 sets of plans of exceptionally high average standard were sent in by Liverpool and Birkenhead architects. The assessor (Mr Frank Briggs) has placed first the design which we illustrate to-day,  that of Messrs Huon Matear and Frank Simon.  The Temple, Dale-street, Liverpool his decision having been unanimously approved by the building committee and board of directors.  Working plan are being prepared, and building operations will be commenced early next year.  A pillared portico will give access to the Exchange proper,  which is to be a handsome hall, surrounded by a two-storeyed colonnade formed with polished granite columns having marble bases, bronze capitals, and marble balustrades.  The ceiling will be panelled and carved in fibrous plaster, with large curved counter light composed of moulded wood and ornamental glazing, completely protected by an outer roof of glass.  Around the fabric will be conveniently arranged the private and public telephones, the post, telegraph, and cable rooms.  Immediately off the Exchange are to be the members’ private reading and smoking rooms, which will also be available for the general meetings of the Association. The arbitration and appeal rooms, located on the top floor, will comprise two spacious apartments, with the finest light possible. The remaining office accommodation such as clearing house, clearing room, bank, &c will be found on the first floor, together with the board secretary’s, committee room.  Numerous handsome suites of offices for the use of cotton brokers are also to be provided.  These will have entrances from the four surrounding streets.  A handsome cafe will be placed in the basement.  In addition to the lower portico, two open balconies will be introduced on the first and second floors, so members can, in the hot weather, discuss their business in the open air.  Fine Portland stone is to be used in the construction of the principal elevation.  The total cost of the building is estimated at about £150,000.  

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 03 September 1904
Everton are away at Nottingham, and on the Trent Bridge ground, where they have usually met with more than an average amount of success, they will tackle Notts County. Last year they won by three clear goals, and they will indeed do well to even approach such a performance this afternoon. The team seems a most reliable one, and if the men exhibit their last year’s form they should return with a couple of points. But at this period of the season it is difficult to anticipate with any degree of certainty; and the form of the Everton men will be anxiously awaited.
Notts County v Everton.. F. H. Denni, GW Allen and W. Lawson
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards. Kick-off 3.30 p.m.
The Lancashire Combination Division A
Everton Reserve v Earlestown, Goodison Park.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, half-backs; Makepeace, Chadwick and Hutchinson, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Kick-off 3.30 p.m.

TEAMS ARRNAGEMENTS
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 03 September 1904
Notts County v Everton, League Match at Nottingham; Kick-off 3.30.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards. Kick-off 3.30 p.m.
Everton Combination v Earlestown,
Lancashire Combination match, at Goodison Park. Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, half-backs; Makepeace, Chadwick and Hutchinson, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.
Monday next
Everton v Linfield
At Goodison Park, kick-off 5.45
Everton.- Scott, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.
Wednesday next
Everton v Liverpool and District League
At Garston; kick-off 6
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Heyes and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, Sheridan, McAdam, McCartney, and Dodd, forwards.
Thursday next
Everton v Oswestry United
At Oswestry; Landing-stage 2.40; Kick-off 5.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; R. Balmer and McCartney, backs; Rankin, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Roberts, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

NOTTS COUNTY v  EVERTON
Football News (Nottingham) - Saturday 03 September 1904
The seasiders won the corresponding game last season by three clear goals.
The meeting between these clubs on the City Ground this afternoon (Trent Bridge not being available) was invested with additional interest because it marked the commencement of the serious work of the season; and that being so, the Notts enthusiasts were naturally curious to see what influence the latest introductions to the ranks were likely to have upon the effectiveness of the team. It differed in one respect only from that which engaged in the “friendly” at Hull on Thursday, Earle, the recently-secured custodian from Clapton, taking the place of Albert Iremonger. The visitors’ side, also had a very familiar appearance, all the men having worn the Everton colours in former seasons, except Scott, the Irish International. Wolstenholme, the famous half-back, has migrated to Blackburn, and to fill the gap in the intermediate section the old servant Taylor was called upon. At half-past three the forces picked themselves out in the undermentioned order;-
Notts;- H. Earle, goal; T. G. Prescott, and J. Montgomery, backs; J. Anderson, H.L. Mainman (captain) and A. Griffiths, half-backs; J. Muir and P. Humphreys, right wing; A.W Green, centre, Reid, and E. Gee, left wing.
Everton; J.W Scott, goal; W. Balmer and J. Crelly, backs; J. Taylor, T. Booth (captain), and W. Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, and T. McDermott, right wing; A. Young, centre; J. Settle, and H. Hardman, left wing.
Referee; Mr. F.H. Dennis (Middlesbrough).
THE GAME DESCRIBED
After a wet and chilly morning the weather subsequently took a more favourable turn and this afternoon the sun shone genially from a cloud-flecked sky, which suggested that before long more moisture might make its appearance. However, the crowd of 10,000 persons on the City Ground were only concerned with what transpired for the time being, and all of them seemed comfortably housed. One noted with satisfaction the excellent progress the Forest Committee have made on their new stand, which appears to be complete except for a few finishing touches. Indeed, the whole enclosure and its appointments were all that could be desired in point of condition, and the turf, looking green and well covered with grass, was in splendid going order. Everton were the first to catch the eye of the crowd, but their opponents immediately followed on their heels, and Harry Mainman was accorded a cheer all to himself in recognition of his appointment to the captaincy.
A STIFFISH BREEZE
Blew down the ground from goal to goal, and the Everton skipper, having nominated the face of the coin, naturally decided to take advantage of it.  It was not to be wondered at that the light blues were quickly in evidence, and in the first few minutes the Notts goal had successfully withstood a couple of determined onslaughts which were initiated by Settle and Hardman. The home right wing having made a futile attempt to change the scene of hostilities, the visitors returned to the attack, but Settle was very properly given off-side when he had the breach at his mercy. Play was fast, and the crowd pulsated with enthusiasm when Muir, from his colleague’s feeding, struck an oblique course for goal. The cheering, however, changed to expressions of dissatisfaction when the referee pulled the ex-Celt up for an infringement of the off-side rule, and the spectators were not particularly pleased when a moment later Green came under the ban of the official for similarly offending. Both Muir and his centre finished their efforts after the referential solo had sounded, but neither of the got the ball past Scott. The “magpies,” however, were nothing depressed, and for a little time the eye of the observer was regaled by some finished zig-zag passing by the forward quintette. The ball most frequently came out to Gee, who twisted and twirled like an eel; but in Taylor and Balmer he was meeting couple of nippy defenders, and could not get the ball square in the middle. The Evertonians then set to work again to make what capital they could out of the assistance the wind was giving them, and from a centre by Sharp there was a regular hurly-burly in the Notts goalmouth. Earle saved smartly over the heads of the pack, and Notts, finally obtained relief when one of the visitors handled the ball. A moment later Tom Booth stuck one of the uprights with a terrific drive, and shortly afterwards Settle, from middle range, tested the Claptonian with a mischievous looking grounder, the young custodian repelling the shot in a manner which indicated he knows all about his business. Some exceedingly clever work by Griffiths, Gee, and Green in combination mixed Balmer and Taylor up more than they exactly liked, but somehow or other did not “get there” at the finish, and beyond collecting a couple of stray ones Scott had nothing to exercise his mind over. Just now, however, Muir tested him with a business-like shot. Then came a series of incidents which led up to McDermott opening the scoring on behalf of the visitors 23 minutes from the commencement of hostilities. It was really Sharp’s goal, for the little sprinter got round three opponents and found it a scrimmage, which led to a corner accruing on the left wing, and from this the light blues established their lead, McDermott doing the trick neatly with his cranium. The lowering of the home colours somewhat damped the spirits of the crowd, but there was a long way to go yet, and it was only to be expected that a fast and clever forward line would make some practical use of the wind. The visitors continued to have nearly all the game, Notts making very little progress against the wind, while the defence was too prone to balloon the leather, and usually failed to get it any distance removed from their lines. Fortunately, however, Young and company could not add to their score, and for some time the exchanges gave rise to very little incident. But eight minutes from the interval Settle met a centre from his right and notched a second point for the Lancashire team, this success being almost immediately nullified by Reid, who was given his opportunity as the result of judicious tactics on the part of Muir. The first goal of the Notts season was received with a rare salvo of cheering, and now that both sides had something in the ledger interest in the proceedings revived. Green, meeting a flying centre by Gee, failed to aim accurately for once, while Hardman, after indulging in a sprint, ran too far in the corner, and his centre dropped on the net. Humphreys was given off-side when he seemed certain to equalise, and a minute later Muir compelled Crelly to concede a corners, which was well manoeuvred but not improved upon, though both Humphreys and Mainman made praiseworthy attempts in that direction. The team then temporarily returned, the score being Everton 2 Notts County 1
When the game was continued the breeze seemed less perceptible than hitherto, which was nothing to the advantage of the “magpies” who naturally were anxious to wipe of the deficit and place their opponents on the wrong side of the account. Although Mainman’s men had disappointed their admirers in many senses in the previous “45,” there was no apparent reason why they should not get on terms, and when in the first few minutes Humphreys pestered the Everton backs, until between them they lost him, there seemed a chance of hopes at once being realised. Scott, however, saved the situation for his side, and a few moments later was again in evidence with some showy but nevertheless safe play. In the course of one of the Notts attacks somebody’s foot came in contact with Green’s head, and there was a momentary stoppage while the centre forward’s head underwent repairs. Getting to work again the Everton forwards swarmed round Earle, and Young put the ball past him, but the referee ruled him off-side, and the crowd rejoined thereat, but on the other hand, it was most disappointing to see Humphreys clean miss a lovely centre by his partner, while it was positively annoying when a judicious header by Green went a few inches high. The home team had now got better into their stride, the forwards receiving splendid assistance from the backs and intermediates, with the result that Scott’s charge underwent a peppering of almost warlike proportions. It was one of those brief spells in a game of football when almost anything might happen, a bit of luck this way or the other deciding the issue. The men from the seaport town were lucky dogs indeed on the present occasion, for although their defence was very adamant Notts, were all powerful for the time being, and had good cause for complaint against the fickle dame. Unfortunately, the Nottingham team could not keep up the pressure, and subsequently their own goal had to be very closely guarded. The movements of Young and his wing were directed with admirable and better precision than were those on the other side, and it took Prescott and Montgomery, faithfully assisted by the half-backs, all their time to prevent Earle’s colours from being lowered again. But despite the few entertaining interludes which have been mentioned, it was not superb football by any means, and had a distinct holiday favour about it. From a beautifully timed pass by Green Muir took another corner out of Crelly, and after the flag kick had been put in Reid lifted the leather over the horizontal with his head, while shortly afterwards Gee dropped one in just under the bar, and Scott cleared brilliantly at the expense of what would have been a corner had not Humphreys been penalised for obstructing him. Time was rapidly approaching, and, though the Everton half was generally the theatre of hostilities, the Notts attack was so ragged that there was little hope of a division of points. On the contrary, there was more likelihood of Everton increasing their lead. Sharp got going in his best style, but, after tricking a number of opponents, lost his foothold and fell on his knees when it was long odds on a goal. Nothing more was done, the game ending in a disappointing reverse for the home team. Result;- Everton 2 Notts 1
NOTES AND COMMENTS
Now, what about the value as barometers of practice matches? And wouldn’t it be better if our football legislators would put off the opening of the season a month? It’s no good; you can’t expect men to be at their best on an afternoon when the ordinary mortal would infinitely prefer to be playing cricket or gliding a “gig” down the river.
But at the same time, what poor stuff the football of Notts, and Everton was! Except at certain periods which are described above, you might almost have placed any twenty-two fairly well-trained men on the field and quite as much fun out of the business-perhaps more.
Everton deserved to win by the narrow margin of the result, for they were the better lot in every department, particularly forward. Young and his four colleagues were quicker and more cohesive, and usually more dangerous in front of goal. But one or two of them have too much flesh on, especially little “Jacky” Sharp.
To be candid, the home forwards were very ragged and disappointing, speaking generally, and Muir will be all the more useful if he can pick up a few yards of speed. Gee was the pick of the bunch, followed by Reid, the left wing being distinctly the better. We seldom heard from Green, who left his shooting boots at home.
The home halves lacked speed and incisiveness, and I am sire Anderson did not, show up in his true colours; while I have seen both backs play better. Earle could not be blamed for the two shots which beat him, and had not enough to do to enable one to form a reliable opinion as to his capabilities. Well, it was not exactly nice to be beaten in the opening fixture, but we mustn’t grumble yet. There looks to be good material enough to form a workmanlike team when the men have settled down.

EVERTON v  NOTTS COUNTY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 03 September 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
EVERTON LEAD AT HALF-TIME
The Everton team entered upon the football season by opposing Notts County at the prosperous Midland town this afternoon. The journey thither was undertaken yesterday, the players spending the evening quietly in the lace capital. All were reported as being in the pink of condition and the engagement excited the liveliest interest among the followers of the past me. The ground at Trent Bridge being still in the hands of the willow-wielders, the scene of action was, as usual at the open of the season removed to the Forest ground, which is only a stone’s throw away. The weather was delightfully warm and fine and was far more suggestive of the summer pastime of cricket than the keenness, hurry, and bustle of football. when the players entered the arena there were fully 10,000 spectators present and they cheered the combatants loudly. Both clubs were fully represented. The teams faced each other as follows;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Notts County.- Earle, goal; Prescott and Montgomery, backs; Anderson, Mainman (captain), and Griffiths, half-backs; Muir, Humphreys, Green, Reid, and Gee, forwards.
Scott late of Linfield, kept goal for the first time for Everton, and the County had three new men-Earle, from Clapton; Anderson from Port Glasgow; Muir from Celtic. Everton won the toss, and the County started against the wind, which was blowing fairly strong. The Evertonians at once made off on the left, and Hardman looked exceeding dangerous when Prescott cleared his lines at the expense of a corner. This was well placed, and an exciting bully in front of Earle ensued the pressure being only relieved when Jack Taylor put the ball high over the bar. The County men then took up the running, and for some time the visitors defence was sorely taxed. Humphreys on one occasion looked very like scoring, but he was offside when he sent the leather just wide of the mark. Everton were not slow in taking the initiative and a free kick close in gave them a further advantage. This, however, came to nothing, and the next item of interest was a pretty bit of work on the part of Young, who gave to Sharp, but the latter was ruled offside. The home side now began to show up rather more prominently, but they could not pierce the visitors’ defence and the Evertonians were soon again in evidence. A corner was forced, and this led to an exciting scrimmage in the goal mouth, which terminated in Sharp being penalised for handling. Balmer and Crelly pulled up a sharp attack by the County forwards and then Booth earned the City forwards and then Booth earned the warm plaudits of the crowd with a long, swift shot, which went wide of the mark. Play now showed down considerably, and a series of useless throws-in detracted considerably from the general interest. The visitors were better than their opponents in the matter of attack, and from a free kick by Balmer, Settle sent in a low, swift shot, which Earle saved very cleverly. The County forwards then got away in businesslike fashion, and both Balmer and Crelly were more than once in trouble. The halves, however, fell back to their assistance, and Griffiths was so hampered on one occasion that. Though he had the goal before him, he shot yards wide. Midfield work followed, and then Crelly tipped in the bud a very promising movement on the part of the home forwards. Notts, however, were very persistent, and moving down again on the right, Humphreys mulled a grand opportunity of scoring. The visitors then got going in fine style, and Sharp put the ball across the goalmouth very cleverly. Settle shot in, and this was only saved at the expense of a corner. As matters eventuated this corner proved an expensive one for Notts, for from a warm bully in front of Earle, McDermott succeeded in netting the ball after the game had been in progress about twenty minutes. After this reverse, the County men played in a most determined and vigorous fashion, and they caused considerable trouble to the Everton defenders, among whom Taylor was prominent. On one occasion Humphreys seemed likely to equalise, but Booth rushed up just in time to take the ball from his toe. At this period the County were having their full share of the pay, but at the same time there could be no doubt as to which was the cleverer team, the Everton forwards and halves showing excellent combination. After some pretty passing, Hardman put in an oblique shot, which the home custodian had comparatively possession when close in, and he beat Scott with a short, swift shot. Play now became exceedingly exciting both sides putting in all they knew and a breakaway by Taylor was only stopped at the expense of Mainman being badly winded. The ball was taken from end to end in rapid succession, and a long screw shot from Hardman dropped on the top of the net. Then the home right advanced strongly. On resuming Balmer almost put through his own goal. Scott just reaching the ball at the same time as Humphreys, who was penalised for tackling the custodian. At the other end Young got in a centre by Sharp, but the ball had previously been out. The visitors goal underwent a heavy bombardment, and Notts had hard luck in seeing their shots cannon out off opposing players. Play slowed down considerably, both sides feeling the effects of the previous hard work. On one occasion, however, Gee headed in just under the bar from a  free kick against Abbott. Scott effecting a grand save.
Final Result; Everton 2 goals, Notts County 1 goal.

EVERTON v  EARLESTOWN
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 03 September 1904
Lancashire combination -Div A
There were about 5,000 spectators at Goodison Park this afternoon when the above teams faced each other. The weather was beautiful fine, and the ground was in the pink of condition. The following teams lined up;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Makepeace, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.
Earlestown.- Grimes, goal; Collinson and Turner, backs; Houghton, Tasker, and Brooks, half-backs; Sharples, Smith, Harper, Hilton, and Hynes, forwards.
Harper kicked off on behalf of Earlestown, Everton having the advantage of a cross wind. The opening stages were very fast, Earlestown at once making for the home goal, where Harper shot over the bar. Sharples a few minutes later shot wide, and then Dilly was conspicuously with a fine run down the field. Caldwell striking the post. Dilly next headed a fine centre from Rankin over the bar. A corner fell to Everton and Chadwick had an opening but shot wide. Good work by Earlestown followed, and the home goal was in jeopardy. Wildman cleared out the danger, but just afterwards from a pass by Smith. Hilton notched a grand goal. This success put the visitors on good terms with themselves and they maintained the pressure, and Kitchen was called upon to have on several occasions. Everton then took up the aggressive and made determined efforts to equalise. Sheridan from a pretty pass from Rankin shooting in, Grime having no chance of saving at all. The visitors custodian a few minutes later had to save a shot from Chadwick at the expense of a corner, from which, however, nothing tangible resulted. Earlestown took up the running and Hilton almost beat Kitchen with a shot from long range. The home goalkeeper was lucky in saving. Play was of a give-and-take character after this. Everton having slightly the better of the argument. As the interval; approached Earlestown pressed, but without result. Half-time- 1 goal each.
Final Everton Reserve 5, Earlestown 1.

NOTTS COUNTY V EVERTON
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Monday 05 September 1904
Last season's results-At Nottingham, Everton 3, Notts County 0. At Everton;l Everton 3, Notts County 1
Notts County's match with Everton on the City ground at Nottingham attracted 12,000 spectators. The home team played Earle, formerly of Clapton, in goal, and Everton had Scott, the Irish international, between the uprights, while the veteran Taylor took the position of Wolstenhomes, now of Blackburn. Everton were the superior side in the first half, and after earle had saved finely from Settle, McDermott and Settle scored. A mix-up in the Everton defence gave Green a chance of reducing the visitors lead, 2 to 1 at half-time. In the second half Sharp put through again for Everton, but the ball had previously gone over the line. Everton held the whip-hand to the close, without agin scoring. result; Everton 2, goals Notts County 1 goal.

CAPITAL DISPLAY BY EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 05 September 1904
In their opening game, the champions of last season exhibited some of the form which made them a team to be feared whenever they went, and Earlestown, although offering a stubborn resistance, were eventually beaten by five goals to one.  They scored first by Hilton but before the interval Sheridan equalized.  In the second half, Sheridan, Dilly (2), and Caldwell obtained further goals, with the result that Everton won as above stated.  The home forwards were seen to great advantage, and Dilly especially played a fine trim, and, despite some fine defensive work on the part of the visitors, their goalkeeper was unable to keep the dangerous Everton front rank in check.  Makepeace was the most prominent of the half-backs, and Wildman gave a capital exhibition at right full-back.  For Earlestown Grime, despite the big score against him kept a grand goal.

EVERTON START PROMISINGLY
Athletic News - Monday 05 September 1904
By Junius
Trent Bridge has proved a fortunate place for Everton during recent years in the matter of securing points, and their victory on Saturday was to some extent expected.  Last season Everton won by three clear goals and, though such a decisive triumph was not again anticipated every confidence was felt in the ability of the players to avert defeat.  A success on foreign soil in an opening match is decidedly promising, and with the constitution of the side as it is at present Everton should again do well in the League. 

TRANSFER OF WHITLEY
Athletic News - Monday 05 September 1904
By Junius
Some surprise was occasioned when the news of the transfer of Whitley to Stoke was made known, and the decision of the Everton directors to part with him has caused much dissension of opinion.  In the trial games, Whitley shaped in a splendid style, and there are not wanting those amongst the supporters of the club who consider that he was the best custodian they possessed.  He was unfortunate in coming to Everton when they had a keeper of the caliber of Kitchen, but on the few occasions when he had a chance of figuring with the League team he invariably gave a good account of himself.  It will always be a matter of surprise why Everton signed on a third custodian in Scott when they possessed two League custodians like Kitchen and Whitley, and, in giving the Irishman the first chance of keeping in the League eleven, I do not think the club have particularly pleased their following.  Off with the old love and on with the new is not always a policy to be pursued, and Kitchen has been a rare custodian for Everton.

A BAD START FOR NOTTS
Athletic News - Monday 05 September 1904
By Trentsiders
In general accordance with their customs, Notts opened the season in a manner not calculated to give much cause for satisfaction to their followers, being beaten by Everton at Nottingham by two goals to one.  Owing to the County Cricket Club requiring Trent Bridge for a week of two longer, the game had, with the permission of the League to be played on the City ground, and Notts had not, therefore, the full advantage which is supposed to accrue from appearing at home.  Still they were expected to give a much better account of themselves than they did, and their form, taken all through, was far from satisfactory.  Their attack was altogether disjointed.  Individually the forwards could be found little fault with, but they did not work together in a fashion worthy of any commendation, and were consequently a force with which the Everton defenders found it perfectly east to deal.  They were dangerous in some of their rushes but their efforts were sadly lacking in finish.  At half-back they made a fair display, although Anderson and Griffiths were scarcely equal to keeping Hardman and Sharp in check, and allowed them too much latitude, whilst in the back division the same unreliability was noticeable, as was the case last year.  Earle in goal made a fairly promising first appearance.  He was evidently a little nervous and did one or two rash things, but on the whole he should prove a safe keeper when he settles down with the side.  Everton had a thoroughly sound defence, and at half-back, too, they were strong. The combination of their forwards, like that of Notts, was, however, open to considerable improvement.  There was more method in the tactics attempted than was apparent on the home wide, but they were carried out in a somewhat crude style.  On the whole the visitors played better football than Notts, and they quite deserved their victory.
A Scrappy Game
For over twenty minutes play was of the poorest description.  Everton, with the wind behind them, and the best of matters but it was not until Sharp made a capital run that they could claim much advantage.  They were then kept from scoring in a rather remarkable manner, but Notts did not benefit by the escapes, as McDermott scored from the corner kick which ensued.  A claim for a penalty kick by Notts passed unnoticed and there was little else of any moment for an quarter of an hour.  Then Sharp put in another neat centre, and Settle very skillfully headed a second goal.  A minute later Muir also placed a pretty centre, and Reid, getting a clear course, beat Scott at close quarters.  For half an hour in the second half Notts made some desperate attempts to drew level.  They were full of dash, and they gave some glimpses of first-class form.  But all their efforts were unavailing.  Humphreys and Green had two splendid opportunities from centres by Muir, the former over-running the ball when he had only Scott to beat, and latter heading over.  Everton came quite as near scoring.  Sharp had previously made another of his brilliant runs, and Young had put through but the referee held that the ball had been over the line, and the point was not allowed.  Later Everton were again in front, and Earle was drawn from goal, two shots being put in during his absence, Mainman, fortunately clearing.
A TAME FINISH
The match ended in the tamest possible manner.  A quarter of an hour before the final whistle sounded most of the players had quite enough of matters, and went about as restlessly as could be.  Notts could not respond to the calls of their supporters and were thoroughly beaten.  As mentioned earlier the Clapton goalkeeper, shaped very well, and Notts ought not to suffer in this department as they have done.  Prescott and Montgomery, however, were not altogether safe in their tackling, and Notts were seen to less advantage at back than anywhere.  Under pressure the pair did not seem able to get the ball away, and the side was consequently often in great difficulties.  Anderson the new right half should do well with Mainman, who played a great game.  Muir was about the best forward though Reid was hard-working and clever.  Green also put in some capital work, whilst Humphreys and Gee played moderately.  So it kept a fine goal for Everton, but it was in his favour that he had such a steady and capable pair of backs as Balmer and Crelley in front of him.  Booth gave a splendid account of himself at centre half back, Taylor and Abbott rendering useful support whilst Sharp, Settle and Hardman led the attack with split.  The first named was as speedy as ever, and he finished his runs with judgement.  Notts –Earle; Prescott, and Montgomery; Anderson, Mainman, and Griffiths; Muir, Humphreys, Green, Reid, and Gee.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Taylor, Booth and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; F.H. Dennis, Middleborough. 

NOTTS COUNTY 1 EVERTON 2
September 5, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Everton opened their League season at Nottingham. Their opponents were Notts County, but owing to the County Ground being required for cricket the match took place on the enclosure of the Forest club. The weather was more suggestive of cricket than football, but there was naturally a large crowd to witness the first League game of the season in the town. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Notts County: - Earle, goal, Prescott, and Montgomery, backs, Anderson, Mainman, and Griffiths, half-backs, Muir, Humphreys, Green, Reid, and E.Gee, forwards. Referee F.H.Dennis. The County opened the game when a smart check was administered by Abbott, which led to Settle and Hardman racing to within a few yards of Earle, the ball rebounding from the keeper, and just as Settle was about to put on the finishing touch Earle pushed the ball over the line. A change came over the proceedings on Green passing out to Muir, as a raid was at once made on the Everton defence. After several smart movements the ball the ball was given to Humphreys, who shot grandly into the net, but was palpably offside, and the point was promptly disallowed. A further attack in which Gee kept the Everton defenders busy, and the best efforts of Booth and high co-defenders were required to hold the County forwards in check. Sharp was given a chance of getting away, but it was not accepted, and a moment later, the ball was driven over the line. Pulling themselves together, the visiting quintet went off in fine form, and Prescott in order to save charge conceded a corner kick. Hardman placed well, and the followed a stiff bully in goal, but Everton lost their chance by a player handling the ball just in front of the goalmouth. Another severe attack followed, and a strong drove by Booth only missed the mark by the merest shave. Settle and Hardman meanwhile were putting in much good work, but in T.Anderson at half-back they found a sturdy opponent, and further behind, Prescott allowed little quarter. From a free kick, Balmer placed well to Settle, who worked himself into a nice position, but his shooting he put the ball straight to the keeper. A clever movement by Muir and Humphreys led to a heavy pressure on the Everton goal, and gave Gee a simple chance of scoring, but he missed the ball altogether. Scott had then to clear from green, and in a trice was at the other end, where Sharp put in a clever centre, Earle came out, but could only put the ball to Settle, whose shot glanced off Montgomery over the line. The corner kick was well taken and McDermott rushing up headed the ball into the net quite out of the keeper's reach. This success came after about twenty minutes play, and on getting to work again the County forwards bore down in almost irresistible style. Humphreys looked like getting through when Booth with a clever effort just managed to get his toe to the ball, and directly afterwards McDermott when going strongly was pulled up for fouling Griffith. A clever shot from Hardman was the next item, but the keeper attended to it in able fashion, and directly afterwards and no difficulty in dealing with a weak attempt by Booth. Reckless passing by the Everton forwards resulted on severe occasions in the ball rolling harmlessly over the goalline. Young then broke though, and when he had practically no opposition he preferred to pass back to McDermott instead of shooting. The latter put the ball ridiculously high over the bar, and after a further attempt to make headway by the Everton left the County got well under way, and gave Balmer, and Crelly plenty to do. Eventually Everton right got down, and after defeating Montgomery Sharp centred, and Settle meeting the ball headed into the net. Play had no sooner been set going again, than the County notched their first goal through Reid. after several smart passes across the goalmouth, Everton become once again aggressive, and looked like adding to their score, when Hardman took a pass in an offside position. Closely following the outside left sprinted down nicely, and was only a trifle out of his reckoning with a shot which, dropped on the crossbar. Half-time Notts County 1, Everton 2. On resuming the home side were first to get away, and had a free kick in a favourable position, but Griffiths shot over the bar. Everton retaliated but were driven back, and Balmer had to pass back to Scott in order to stop the opposing wing. Notts were having rather the best of the exchanges, but the Everton forwards were by no means idea, and Earle had to negotiate a stiff shot from Young. Green was hurt, but quickly resumed, and twice Muir sent the ball across the Everton goalmouth but the defence was too strong. The Everton pressed with determination, and on the two occasions. Mainman managed to divert capital shots, when Earle was out of his goal. Notts then gained a fruitless corner, while Scott saved from Gee. Nothing further was scored, and the result was Notts County 1, Everton 2.

EVERTON RESERVES 5 EARLESTOWN 1
September 5, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 1)
At Goodison-park, before 5,000 spectators. The opening half was splendidly contested play being fast and exciting. Earlestown opened the score through Hilton, and Sheridan equalised. Half time 1 goal each. On resuming Everton were early aggressive, Sheridan giving the home team the lead with a fine shot. Dilly augmented later. Everton had matters all their own way after this, and Caldwell put on a fourth, and Dilly a fifth goal, and Everton won by five goals to one. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Makepeace, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Rankin, Sheridan McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 5, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton have opened the season most auspiciously. Their first League engagement was away from home, and whoever their opponents might be some anxiety naturally is felt as to the issue of the match. It is, therefore, all the more gratifying to their supporters that thus early a victory should have been obtained. Such a capital send-off is bound to have a good effect upon the team, for after all, there is nothing so encouraging especially in league football, as a win at the very start of an arduous season's engagements. Their success over Notts County by 2 goals to 1 was not, it is true, very pronounced, but the two points are there, and this is all that the team were asked to accomplish. Last season, in the corresponding fixture, the Evertonians gained the upper hand by three clear goals. That however, need scarcely be taken into account at the present time, in as much as when that result was achieved the Everton players had enjoyed plenty of serious practice, and were at the top of their form. Saturday's game could not be classed as a really first-rate exhibition of Association football. At the same time, this was by no means a matter of astonishment. One can hardly expect in the opening game all the finer points to be accentuated. The players themselves do not get into their regular swing, and the weather-it was more suggestive of cricket than of the winter pastime-necessarily plays on unimportant part, Still, it must be conceded that Everton's victory was the outcome of superior tactics. Right from the commencement this was apparent to every impartial spectators. The Notts County representative certainly tried hard, but the work of the Evertonians was characterised by style and finish, which overshadowed the vigorous efforts of the home side. At one period it looked as if Notts would be simply overwhelmed, for in less than half an hour Everton were two goals to the good. Both goals were cleverly obtained. McDermott heading through from a corner, while Settle also used his head successfully in meeting a brilliant centre from Sharp. These successive, however, seemed to impart renewed energy to the “Lancemen” and temporary weakness on the part of the visiting defence presented an open goal to Reid, who made no mistake. After this neither team succeeded in adding to their score, for although Young placed the ball into the net, the referee disallowed the point, presumably because Sharp before centring had gone over the line. The earlier proceedings of the second half were not so favourable to Everton as the club's followers might have desired. Indeed, had the home forwards taken advantage of ready good opportunities, the game might easily have been equalised. Still the main fault rested with the County attack, who, if they are to be successful, cannot throw away chances of lowering their opponents goal. It is just as well to point this but because unless the Everton defence is maintained at the high standard which distinguished it last season, such opportunities as were offered in Saturday's game would certainly not be discarded by any skilful set of forwards. For the main part little faulty could be found with the work of the Everton defence, but there was occasional slackness which, fortunately for the side, was not turned to profitable account. The only new recruit in the Everton ranks was Scott, the Irish International from Linfield. Although not subjected to any severe trial, he showed that he is a custodian of real ability. A word of caution, however, would not be out of the place. Coolness is an excellent qualification in a goalkeeper, but there is such a thing as carrying it to success. On more than one occasion when he might have punted strongly down the field, he threw the ball to the backs, and if the Notts forwards had been more alert the Everton citadel might have been captured. Balmer and Crelly were a strong couple of defenders, although not so consistent as usual. but no disquietude need be entertained, for with more work they are bound to improve. Taylor filled the vacancy caused by Wolstenholme's transference to Blackburn Rovers, and that he worked like a Trojan goes without saying. Still, right half is not Taylor's true position, and somewhat naturally he could not resist the temptation to act his old part as inside right. Booth and Abbott maintained their reputation, and were always a thorn in the side of the Notts attack. The visiting forwards individually were exceedingly clever, but they did not quite realise one's expectations in the matter of combination. No doubt the necessary assimilation of method will soon be forthcoming, and then Everton will possess probably the smartest quintet in the League. McDermott who was conspicuous throughout for his wonderful trapping of the ball, had the honour of registering Everton first goal of the season, while Settle, who claimed the second, was always smart, not only in robbing opponents, but opening out the game for his comrades. Young was a watchful centre, and both outside men, Sharp and Hardman, were speedy and resourceful, the centre from the former, which led to the winning goal, being a particularly fine effort. The new men who appeared for Notts County rendered a good account of themselves, but there is a lack of balance about the team, which does not suggest a very successful career. It was noticeable that three old players, who have been associated with the district-Prescott, Gee, and Mainman-were amoug the most prominent of the County representatives. Everton victory still doubtless add to the interest which will be taken in the friendly fixture at Goodison park to night with the Linfield club.

NOTTS COUNTY v  EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 05 September 1904
At Nottingham, before 10,000 spectators. The visitors won the toss, and kicked with a strong breeze at their back. Each side got through, but were given off-side, and, following two corners, Earle saved well from Settle. The Notts goal had a narrow escape after a clever run by Sharp, and McDermott scored from a corner. Settle scored for Everton and Reid for Notts. Half-time; Everton 2, Notts 1
The second half was well contested, Notts having slightly the better of the game. Muir and Reid were prominent in the Notts front rank, and Hardman and Young in the visitors. Scott’s goal twice narrowly escaped downfall from Muir’s fine centres. Towards the close both sides seemed to have had enough. There was throughout better combination amongst Everton’s forwards than on Notts side, Everton’s victory by 2 goals to 1 being a fair reflex of the game. Result; Everton 2 Notts County 1.

THE LANCASHIRE COMBINATION DIVISION A
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 05 September 1904
EVERTON RESERVE v  EARLESTOWN
At Goodison Park, before 5000 spectators. Earlestown opened the score through Hilton, and Sheridan equalised. Half-time; 1 goal each. Resuming, Everton were early oppressive, Sheridan giving the home team the lead with a fine shot. Dilly augmented later. Everton had matters all their own way after this, and Caldwell put on a fourth, and Dilly a fifth goal. Result- Everton 5 goals, Earlestown 1.

SATURDAY’S GAME
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 05 September 1904
The Everton team opened the football campaign most auspiciously on Saturday, when they helped themselves to two points at the expense of the County Club at Nottingham. Victories secured at the beginning of the season are of more than their mathematical value. In addition to laying a solid foundation, they act as an incentive for future performance. It is an old proverb that a good start is half the battle, and experience shows that those teams who secure points early in the season invariably finish well. The weather at Nottingham was more suggestive of cricket than football, but interest in the great winter pastime was significantly emphasised by the crowd that turned out to witness the encounter. As in former years, the County team played their opening game on the ground of their close neighbours and rivals, Notts Forest and the well-appointed enclosure-recently the scene of a serious fire that demolished the grand stand-was in first-class condition. The football was scarcely of the same order, but Everton followers will be pleased to learn that the display of the Goodison Park contingent gave promise of better things to come. The visitors at all points were superior to their opponents, who were thoroughly over-played in the first half. In the second three-quarters of an hour the County team pulled themselves together, and on two occasions they gave the Everton defence an exceedingly anxious time. It was not due either to Balmer or Crelly that the home forwards did not find the net, and the latter will certainly have to show improved form if they desire to win matches. The opening stages of the game, as already mentioned was in favour of Everton, and from a corner McDermott scored after play had been in progress rather more than twenty minutes, and this was followed after another interval of twenty minutes by Settle heading the ball into the net. Although two goals down the Nottingham players showed no disposition to shirk the issue, and a fine run down by Muir terminated in Reid beating the Everton custodian.
The second half was unproductive to either side, and though the heat told its tale on the players and slackened their pace, the football display was distinctly cleverer. The result fairly indicates the trend of play, and with a little more cohesion the Evertonians will doubtless do well throughout what promises to be an arduous and exciting season. Turning to individual play credit must be given to the excellent wing work of the two outside men- Sharp and Hardman. The former, fresh from the cricket field, showed his old turn of speed and his marked cleverness in centring the ball, and on one occasion he experienced very hard lines in not playing a goal to his own credit. Hardman also was speedy and clever. Settle and McDermott played exceedingly well in the inside positions, and Young did fairly well at centres. It would seem, however, as though he is again about to establish himself a record in the way of lost opportunities. The halves were altogether satisfactory, Tom Booth being especially effective in breaking up the Notts attack. Balmer and Crelly were not always as safe and reliable as could have been wished. Both were beaten more than once, but no doubt they will steady down before many more matches have been played. Considerable interest attached to Scott’s appearance in goal, and it is reassuring to know that the Irish international gave an admirable account of himself. He possess that sine qua non for a successful goalkeeper- coolness and confidence. It is unnecessary to say more of the Nottingham eleven except that they will have to strengthen their forward line. In other departments they acquired themselves very creditable and Earle could not be blamed for either of the goals scored against him.

NOTS COUNTY v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 05 September 1904
At Nottingham, before 12,000 spectators. The visitors ran straight down and obtained a corner, but the game opened out. On settling down, however, the visitors had the best of matters, and early Notts had to save. The Notts goal had a remarkable escape after a run by Sharp. McDermott scored from a corner after twenty-five minutes. Settle headed a second one from a splendid centre by Sharp in thirty-eight minutes, and a minute later Reid turned a fine centre by Muir to account. There were attacks on both goals. Half-time; Everton 2, Notts 1.
On resuming a corner kick to Everton followed, and Balmer had to kick back to Scott to clear. Notts were having much the better of matters, and Green quickly recovered from an injury. Two beautiful centres by Muir came to nothing. Mainman saved two shots when Earle was out of his goal. Notts made no use of a corner, but Scott put over from Gee. Everton attacked, and Notts made a final effort, without success. Result; Everton 2 goals, Notts County 1 goal.

SETTLE 31
Liverpool Echo - Monday 05 September 1904
EVERTON FOOTBALLERS GET OFF THE MARK FINELY
To succeed at Trent Bridge was an excellent start off for the Everton men, and should serve as a good tonic for Saturday next, when a great crowd will look to them to beat Sheffield United- by more than last year’s 2 goals for preference. Everton beat Notts County on their own soil last year, and though in a more decisive manner than on Saturday, it is pretty clearly proved that the Goodison Park club, if they can only settle down to consistency, will bid fair for the championship. Settle and McDermott were the goal-getters. The former in 1901-2 scored 18, then the next season notched 5, and last season 7. So that the opening match of the 1904-5 tournament enabled him to total 31 goals for his club. Young is second with 22 to his name, and McDermott has eight.
Sheffield United visit the leading leaguers next Saturday, and much interest will be shown in the composition of their ranks. Thickett’s big build will be missing and Priest will probably be found not as a forward but in the defending line. It should be a rattling good match. Scott performed creditably with the few trials he had from the County forwards. This was due not so much to the poor play of the attack as to excellent half back and back work. Young on one occasion put the ball through only to be negatived, the referee ruling that the ball had previously passed over the line.

EVERTON 3 LINFIELD 0
September 6 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Yesterday Everton played a friendly at Goodison-park with Linfield, the Irish League champions, from whom they secured Scott and McCartney. Although the kick off was not until a quarter to six o'clock, the spectators only numbered a couple of thousands. Everton played a mixed team, which included five combination players while the Irishmen tried new recruits. For a friendly the game was interesting to watch. The visitors displayed smart football, the forwards being very nippy on the ball, but they were scarcely a match for the Evertonians. The only goal in the first half fell to Everton, McDermott after a series of exchanges within the penalty area, scoring with a fast low shot. Occasionally the Itrishmen had hard lines, but Scott and the backs defended strongly. A neat individual effort on the part of Caldwell led to Everton second goal and Sharp followed with a third. Scott was not beaten, and the result was Everton 3, Linfield nil. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Taylor Booth (captain), and Hutchinson half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Linfield: - Best, goal, Shepperd, and Wallis, backs, Anderson, Darling and Smith, half-backs, Young, Hagan, Osborne, Stewart, and McClure, forward. Referee J.McGill.

EVERTON v  LINFIELD
Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 06 September 1904
There was a very good attendance at Goodison Park last evening to witness the “friendly” between the above teams. The following players constituted the teams;-
Everton: - Scott, goal, Wildman, and McCartney, backs, Taylor Booth (captain), and Hutchinson half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Linfield: - Best, goal, Shepperd, and Wallis, backs, Anderson, Darling and Smith, half-backs, Young, Hagan, Osborne, Stewart, and McClure, forward.
The visitors won the toss Young opening play on behalf of Everton. The initial stages of the game were of a give and take character, Everton having slightly the best of the argument. After repeated attempts to bring about the downfall of the Linfield goal, McDermott was successful with a capital shot. The visitors made strenuous endeavours to equalise, and they gave a clever exhibition of passing in front of Scott, who was called upon to save on two occasions. Everton then attacked, and Best was kept busy, but he manfully defended his charge. At the interval Everton were leading by 1 goal to nil. The Hibernians restarted and were first aggressive, and showed smart forward play. Everton, however, assumed the upper hand, and Young tested the Linfield custodian with a swift shot, which Best cleverly negotiated. Young at the other end was applauded for a fine shot, which Scott got rid off in as cool a fashion as his vis-a-vis. The Parkites moved nicely up the field, and after some pretty  finessing of the leather Sharp scored a second goal for Everton, a third being registered before the finish.
Result; Everton 3 goals, Linfield nil.
FOOTBALL ITEMS
Sheffield United visit Everton next Saturday and much interest will be shown in the composition of their ranks. Thickett’s big build will be missing, and Priest will probably be found not as a forward but in the defending line. It should be a rattling good match.

FRIENDLY MATCH
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 06 September 1904
EVERTON v  LINFIELD
This friendly fixture attracted close upon 2000 people to Goodison Park last evening. Both sides were strongly represented, as will be seen from a perusal of the subjoined list of players-
Everton: - Scott, Wildman, and McCartney, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Hutchinson, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Caldwell, Dilly.
Linfield: - Best, Shepperd, and Wallis, Anderson, Darling and Smith, Young, Hagan, Osborne, Stewart, McClure, forward.
Referee Mr. J. McGill.
Linfield commenced in promising style, their forwards combining prettily, but Scott saved several capital shots. Everton, however, were the first to score, McDermott receiving from Young close in, and driving a fast, low ball into the net. Even play followed to the interval, which arrived with Everton leading by a goal to nil. In the second half the Irishmen played up pluckily, and gave Scott many shots to deal with, all of which were smartly got away. After 25 minutes Caldwell dribbled through in smart fashion, and registered the second point; but nothing daunted, Linfield strove desperately, and deserved the right winger to exhibit his fine turn of speed, and running clean through the opposing defence, he scored a clever goal. The game thus ended in a victory for Everton by 3 goals to nil.

HENDERSON TO READING
Dundee Evening Post - Wednesday 07 September 1904
In the summer Willie Muir, while on Holiday in Liverpool, strongly advised Portsmouth to engaged Henderson, the ex-Everton full back, but the Portsmouth Directors did not consider the Evertonian class for their team, and he signed for Reading.

EVERTON COMBINATION v.  LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT LEAGUE
Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 07 September 1904
This match will be played on the Gasworks ground, Garston to-day (Wednesday), kick-off 5.45 p.m., the following being the selected teams;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Heyes and R. Balmer, backs; Rankin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, Sheridan, McAdams, McCarthy, and Dodds, forwards.
League.- Dougherty (Garston Church), goal; Harvey (Garston Gas Works) and Whiting (Garston N.E.), backs; Boyland (Garston Church), Taylor (Sutton Commercial), and Kearns (Garston Gas Works), half-backs; Daly (Diamond Match), Molyneux (Thatto Heath), Wilson (Sutton Commercial), Renshaw (Shaw’s Iron), and Neve (Preston Wire Works), forwards.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Mercury - Wednesday 07 September 1904
A match between Everton Combination and Liverpool and District League, at the Gas Works ground, Garston, will be played this evening, starting at 5.45. the following are the selected teams;-
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Heyes and R. Balmer, backs; Rankin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Roberts, Sheridan, McAdams, McCarthy, and Dodds, forwards.
League.- Dougherty (Garston Church), goal; Harvey (Garston Gas Works) and Whiting (Garston N.E.), backs; Boyland (Garston Church), Taylor (Sutton Commercial), and Kearns (Garston Gas Works), half-backs; Daly (Diamond Match), Molyneux (Thatto Heath), Wilson (Sutton Commercial), Renshaw (Shaw’s Iron), and Neve (Preston Wire Works), forwards.

LIVERPOOL LEAGUE 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
September 8,1904. The Liverpool Courier
At Bank-road, Garston, last evening, before about 2,000 spectators. Everton won the toss, and playing with a strong sun at their backs, monopolised the opening stages. Balmer secured the first goal from a free kick in midfield. Dodd and Sheridan broke away, and a corner was forced but nothing resulted. At the other end Boyland (Garston Church) shot into Kitchen's hands. Taylor (Sutton Commerical) at centre half, repeatedly broke up the combination of the Everton forwards. Half-time Everton 1, League nil. Restarting the Leaguers forwards, well supported by the halves, were constantly aggressive and Wilson (Sutton) three times in succession tested Kitchen. While Neve (Prescott) got in a brilliant cross shot. A breakaway by the Everton right almost ended in a score, but Whiting saved at the expense of a corner. A few minutes from time Wilson placed the ball in the corner of the net away from Kitchen, Everton 1, Leaguers 1. Everton: - Kitchen goal, Heyes, and R.Balmer, backs, Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Rankin Sheridan, McAdam, Dodd, and McCartmey

EVERTON HAVE TWO WEEK END MATCHES OF IMPORT
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 08 September 1904
By Bee
Everton ought to gather in the full complement of points on Saturday against Sheffield United, who, I believe, have not by a long way a team of the calibre of last season. The home lot will be the same as that which walked over Notts County. However, one must hope that the Blues will not take too much credit over the victory, for the County have thus early on shown that they are a weak lot- the way in which Sunderland played all over them must have been heartrending to their Trent Bridge supporters. The Everton men are all well, and looking forward to the hard game with the United on Saturday, and on Monday with the famous Aston Villa club. The latter fixture is due to start at 5.45 and the visitors will leave Lime-street by the twelve noon train. In that match, unless accidents cause alterations, the team will be the same as in the opening match. Aston Villa are not the team of old by any means; they have been relying on the good has-beens too much, the junior element at their command being ignored. They have paid the penalty of this foolish policy. Last week they made four changes from the side which was beaten at home by Preston, and I hear that there will be pretty persistent alterations if better results are not achieved.
Thorburn, the Everton ex-Queen’s Park centre forward will soon be fit again. He was kicked in one of the practice games.
Everton Combination team were at Garston last night playing the Liverpool League. A draw of one goal was the result of a most interesting encounter. R. Balmer, the Combination back, scored a soft one, and Wilson after many excellent efforts, equalised.

OSWESTRY UNITED 0 EVERTON RESERVES 4
September 9 1904 The Liverpool Courier
At Oswestry yesterday in dull weather. Shortly from the kick off, Everton got a lead from Sheridan, the second point being registered by Roberts. Everton practically made rings around their opponents, leading by three goals at the interval. On resuming Everton used fine passing, which the salopians warded off successfully. The encounter from this rules somewhat more quick, the visitors only securing one more point throughout the second half. Elsworth also a Liverpool player deserved especial mentions, for his long shot.

OSWESTRY UNITED v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 09 September 1904
At Oswestry yesterday. Everton sent a strong team for the opening of the season. The Salopians were overpowered from start to finish. At the interval Everton maintained a lead of 3 goals, scored by Sheridan (two) and Roberts. The change of ends led to an interesting game, Kitchen being hotly pressed. Balmer proved a tower of strength for the visitors. McAdam notched a fourth point for Everton.
Result; Everton 4 goals, Oswestry United nil.

ALBERT EDWARD LEWIS.
Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette - Saturday 10 September 1904
Footballer and Cricketer.

Albert Edward Lewis, the successor to John Edward Doig to goalkeeper for the Sunderland Club, seems to be just the right sort of man to take the place of the famous international. Lewis is a Gloucestershire man, having been born at Bristol 26 years ago. He is now a fine, big specimen of the Southerner, being 6ft. lin in height, and weighing 13st 101b. A pretty good weight one would say, but he does not look it, and has not an ounce of superfluous fat about him. He commenced his football career with the Bedminster Club, and played for them for two or three seasons, his positions being goalkeeper, and occasionally right full back "He went from there to Bristol City Club when that organisation became professional one, and was with them three seasons. His joining of this club marked the opening of his professional career. While with the City he did very well both as custodian and full back. So well, indeed, as to secure county honours, and played for Gloucestershire against Somerset and Wilts. Right back was his position in the county games. Then came a season with Everton but he did not once get a game with the League team in a League fixture. next he became associated with the Walsall club, for a season, after which he miragted to the Sheffield United. A couple of seasons there and then Sunderland. On joining the United he played for the first team, as gaoler, in the opening five games - all of which were won - and then the committee dropped him. Twice he figured in the United team at Roker Park, has last appearance as a "Blade" being on December 19th 1903. About ten minutes from the finish, when the score was standing one each, he twisted his knee, and had to retire, peter Boyle filling the vancancy. Fortunately the injury was not of a serious character, and he is now all right again, and been for a long enough. Ever since he joined Walsall he has not figured in any other position than that of goalkeeper. While with the United he took part in the Rest of the Midland v. Champions match, being in the former team. It will thus be gathered that Lewis has had a lengthy and varied experience, and, coming to Sunderland in the zenith of his power, he will no doubt prove a valuable member of the team. Lewis is, like Buckle and Bridgett, a life long teetotaler, but he makes no boast of the fact. A quite unassuming follow Lewis appears to be, and the supporters of the club can rest assured that he is just one of that sort of man that can be depended upon to do his best. Now a word or two as to his cricket career for he is a first class cricketer. He commenced as a pro, with the Offon Club just outside Birmingham, and at the end of the first season he ehaded both the battling and bowling averages. Warwickshire desired him to qualify for their county after a trial match. Better terms, however, were offered by Somerset and to that County he went. He was enagaged on ground staff for three seasons, and on the completion of that terms he was re-engaged for a similar period. This has also passed, and he is now in his third engagement with the County, and at the end of August, 1905, he will have been nine seasons with somerset. For the last six seasons he has regularly figured in the Somerset team, and his battling averages for the County this season was 33, besides which he captured between 40 and 50 wickets. Altogther he made close upon 900 runs. In conclusion we might add that he is a partner in the firm of Messrs Mettam and Lewis, althletic outfitters, at Taunton. May his stay in the far North be a pleasant one.

EVERTON 2 SHEEFIELD UNITED 0
September 10, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Everton played their first League match of the season at Goodison Park on Saturday, when with fine weather prevailing, a “gate” of about 23,000 people was attracted to witness the match with Sheffield United. Owing to an injured toe, Booth was unable to turn out in the home team, his place being taken by Chadwick, while the United made several changes: - The teams were: - Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Taylor, Chadwick, and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young. Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Sheffield United: - Foulkes, goal Groves, and Milnes, backs, Johnson, Wilkinson, and Needham (captain), half-backs, Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake, and Lipsham, forwards. Referee Fred Kirkham Balmer beat Needham in the spin of the coin, and them gave Everton the advantage of playing with the sun at their backs, Brown kicked off, and the Blades opened strongly. The ball being taken down on the left Lipsham forced a corner, which was not improved upon. The Everton took up the running, and amid applause Sharp dashed in a long shot to Foulkes, who fisted the ball down the field. At the other end Lang, was erratic in his shooting, and in the course of another attack Milnes was penalised for fouling Sharp. Taylor took the free kick, and placed the leather in the goalmouth. Foulkes got his arm to it, but could not deal with it adequately, and Hardman rushing up, headed the leather into the net. This success came after about six minutes play. Immediately after the ball was again set in motion, Foulkes splendidly saved the United goal, who intercepted in clever style a dangerous shot from Sharp. The Blades had a look in, but beyond a long shot from Lipsham the home defence was not seriously troubled. Again the Everton forwards swooped down on Foulke, and after a most entertaining series of passes McDermott tried his luck, only to end the ball high over the bar. Lang shot across the Everton goalmouth, and a corner being conceded the ball remained in the vicinity of the goal for some minutes, Scott dealing effectively with a high dropping shot from Donnelly. A wild kick by Chadwick gave the Blades another corner, Scott this time having to deal with a dangerous header. Needham was the next to call upon Scott, the visiting side at this period undoubtedly having the better of the augment. Suddenly there came a change. Young passed well forward, and with Sharp racing for it Foulkes also left his goal. The Lancashire cricket managed to evade the giant custodian, and a goal seemed certain when Groves intercepted the leather. It was a decidedly lucky escape for United. Play continued to be of a lively and interesting description, though naturally the Evertonians felt the loss of Booth's services. Hardman was applauded for a run down the wing, which he finished with a nice pass to Settle, who, however, sent the ball yards from the desired haven. Another abortive corner fell to the Blades, and play ruled pretty even. Capital work by the home attack followed the outside men both being conspicuous. From Hardman's centre McDermott had hard luck in heading outside the post, but Settle was at fault, when splendidly placed in dealing with a cross from Sharp. Young shot into the net after the whistle had blown for offside, and then Sharp finished a fine run by sending wide. A corner to the Blades led to some exciting work in the vicinity of Scott, who was applauded for his smartness in fisting out a dangerous shot. Soon Everton were again swarming round Foulkes, but he was not called upon to handle, Sharp when in good position placing high over the crossbar. After midfield play, the home attack delighted the crowd with a capital exhibition of passing, in which Abbott, Settle, Young, McDermott, and Sharp participated, the latter ending the movement by lifting the ball just over the bar. Half time Everton 1, goal, Sheffield United nil.
On resuming the Blades at once took up the running, and Lipsham got in a splendid oblique shot, which Scott dealt with in masterly fashion. The ball was quickly worked down to the other end, where Abbott tried his luck. However, he did not get sting into his effort, and Foulkes had no difficulty in clearing. A corner was forced, from which Everton might have added to their score. A second corner was conceded without leading to anything tangible, and although Balmer miskicked, the Blades forwards could make little impression upon the Everton defence. The Blades were driven back, and Foulkes had to use his trusty fist. Certain of the referee's decision did not meet with the approval of the crowd, who, however, quite agreed when Groves was penalised for bringing down Young outside the penalty line. From the free kick Sharp dropped the ball into the goalmouth, and though Settle twice got his head to it he could not direct it into the net. Everton were now going in great style, and after enjoying several narrow escapes, the United goal was captured, Young running round Groves and Shooting past Foulkes amid a terrific outburst of cheering. After the second reverse the United forwards exerted pressure, and following a corner Scott was almost taken by surprise. Everton quickly retaliated and from good work by Hardman and Sharp, the latter presented a fine opening to Young, who sent the ball high over the bar. Result: - Everton 2, goals, Sheffield United nil.

TEAM ARRANGEMENTS FOR THIS DAY
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 10 September 1904
Everton v Sheffield United
League match at Goodison Park. Kick-off 3.30.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Everton v Hull
Friendly match at Hull. Kick-off 3.30. train leaves Central Station at 9.50
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.
Monday next
Everton v Aston Villa
League match at Birmingham; Kick-off 4.45. Train leaves Lime-street Station at 12 noon.
Everton.-m Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Everton v St. Helens Town
Combination match, at Goodison Park; Kick-off 5.30.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman, McCartney, backs; Makepeace, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 10 September 1904
This afternoon, Sheffield United will open the League season at Goodison Park, and as the Blades generally give a stubborn exposition in this city, they will doubtless make a great effort to maintain their reputation in this respect. In the corresponding match last year Everton won by a goal to nil, though they had much more of the play than the score would appear to denote. Only the dexterous work of Foulkes in goal averted a much more decisive reverse, but this is, of course, nothing new where the giant keeper is concerned. Everton are playing the same side that beat Notts, and the Blades are relying on the team that was well beaten at Molineux Grounds by the Wolves on Monday last. On comparative form the issue seems fairly safe for the “blues.”
Everton v Sheffield United- Thomas Kirkham, E. Whitehead and R. Watson
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards. Kick-off 3.30 p.m.
Ordinary match
Hull v Everton Combination, Hull, Kick-off 3.30 p.m.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hanlin, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Rankin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.
Reserve, Roberts.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD UNITED
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 10 September 1904
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
HARDMAN SOON SCORES FOR EVERTON
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Delightful weather favoured the opening of the League campaign at the Goodison Park enclosure to-day, when Everton received Sheffield United. With such a glorious past with the Blades could not fail to be an attraction to the Park, no matter what their present might be. The Sheffielders performed at last Saturday, opening the season auspicious by defeating Derby County who visited them. They again courted fortune at the Molyneux Grounds on Monday last, but returned point less and defeated by the Wolves who scored goals to 2. Everton have done much better last Saturday’s visit to Nottingham leaving the Liverpool lot a creditable victory, and invaluable concomitant couple of points. The sectators to-day will be particularly interested in the new custodian’s defence.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Chadwick, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Sheffield United.- Foulkes, goal; Grove and Milnes, backs; Johnson, Wilkinson, and Needham (captain), half-backs; Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake and Lipsham, forwards.
Referee- T. Kirkham, linesmen, Whitehead and Watson.
The popular Everton skipper was unable to play, having injured his toe at Nottingham on Saturday last, and his position was filled by Chadwick; while in the Sheffield team Miles played in place of Priest. There were about 18,000 spectators present when Brown kick-off with the sun in his eyes. The Sheffield early on invaded Everton territory and Lipsham forced a corner, however, failed to trouble the home defence. The Evertonians broke away and made straight for goal, Sharp getting a pretty shot, Foulkes beating the ball out with his fist. A series of sharp bursts of play to the other end, where good defence was shown by Crelly, but Wilkinson managing to get in a shot which went fairly near to the mark, and then the visitors were beaten back. Up to this point both teams had shared in attack, though Sheffield territory was often the scene of operations. But Everton shooting was not of the best. From a good kick McDermott took the ball at the half-way line, and parted with good judgement to his partner, the cricketer darted up his wing with unusual energy, and tackled closely by Milner. In the struggle the ball went and then Sharp took a free kick in a favourable position, and landed the ball with splendid judgement right in the goalmouth, where the burley custodian, hard pressed, repelled but them Hardman darted in immediately and he cleverly defeated Foulkes by putting the ball out of his reach.  This success was gained after six minutes.’ From the centre, the home contingent were back in force, and McDermott shot at Foulke’s hands, and a little later on, after another fierce attack, lifted the ball over the bar. A beautiful move was then initiated by Wilkinson, and taken up by Brown, the full of the forwards taking part and carrying ball to within shooting distance, where an attack was broken up by Balmer. Coming again, the Blades forced a corner on the but this was headed away by Abbott. The Sheffielders, however, would not be denied, and Donnelly shot into Scott’s hands after which Chadwick broke up another onslaught, which came from the right. A smashed up another piece of combination to give the ball to his left-wingers, but found themselves unable to get beyond Groves who returned well up the enclosure. The Blades made energetic but spasmodic effect to equalise, and had their efforts in the field been followed up by good shooting in front of goal, success might frequently have attended their efforts. But in this respect the form was poor and indecisive and the Everton defence was not seriously under pressure. In an spirited move on the Everton right very nearly brought disaster to Foulkes, who rushed out to one from the right and quite failed to judge the ball, Sharp made a second effort, but more by bad luck than good management Groves stopped the progress of the ball in the goalmouth and almost certain goal was denied to Lancashire game cricketer, in answer to heavy pressure Scott gave a corner, and this being badly placed Young had no difficulty in getting away. Hardman tried hard to thread his way through but failed. The same player made a couple of further dashes down his wing, but met with no better success; and then Young put out to his left, Hardman sprinting away and getting in a rattling centre, which McDermott placed the ball over the crossbar. The Sheffield goal had narrow escape a moment later, Young getting within a couple of yards of goal, when Gloves closed in, and Foulkes picked up the ball and threw away. Shortly afterwards Needham passed up to his left wingers, but they did not get fairly on the go, and Balmer had no difficulty in getting in his way. The crowd laughed heartily at a determined charge Horsman made towards the gigantic Foulkes, who seems more burly but as active and formidable as ever. Young received a nice pass from McDermott, but the whistle sounded just as the Everton centre found the net with a very swift straight shot. After this Blues made a sequence of profitless visits, but the combination was not calculated to prove very dangerous, and Milnes was particularly attentive to Sharp. During a smart visit from the visitors’ right wing Scott distinguished himself by effecting a rattling save from Donnelly. After this the Blades forced a corner before Everton could find an exit, and when they did get in front of the “mountain” Sharp made an erratic effort. The forward play on both sides was skilful, but was not so nippy or full of verve as to rouse the spectators. Lipsham and Drake got down the Sheffield left, but were repulsed by Balmer, and then the ball was crossed to Hardman, who received particular attention from Groves, and in the end was beaten. After play in midfield the Everton quintette passed beautifully, and Sharp finished with a grand centre, which, however, was not improved upon. Crelly broke up a run by the Sheffield right, and several attacks were then made by the homesters, which brought half-time. Half-time;- Everton 1, Sheffield nil.
YOUNG ADDS A SECOND GOAL FOR EVERTON
ANOTHER VICTORY FOR EVERTON
After a long interval the gamer was restarted in the presence of at least 25,000 people. The ball was crossed and recrossed before the players got into their stride, and then Lipsham came with a rush and shot grandly for goal. Scott bringing off a beautiful save, Sharp dashed along the touchline, but ran the ball out. A little later, however, he forced a corner, following which Settle and McDermott made great efforts, but another barren corner resulted. The Everton men attacked again, and the United goalkeeper saved from McDermott after which the visitors worked round the home defence, and Drake shot hard, the ball going over the goal-line off one of the Everton players, the resulting corner being easily accounted for Mr. Kirkham gave a peculiar ruling between Scott and Glover, which the crowd failed to understand and consequently derided. The Sheffield forwards were now working in gallant style, and were so ably supported by their halves that the home defence could not stand their torrential onslaught, but luckily the Everton custodian was in fine form, and prevented disaster. Scott was in fine form, luckily and prevented disaster. Everton now pulled themselves together, and swept onward towards Foulkes, who was attacked by both wings, but he was most ably covered by Mills and Groves. A stiff tussle for possession took place in front of Scott, but at length the ball was footed away to the right, Sharp making a tremendous dash into Sheffield’s territory. The ball was sent in from the touchline only to be fisted away by the burly goalkeeper, but the Evertonian then closed in, and then Foulkes saved again, the ball coming from a little crowd of players. A brief breakaway was then made by the Blades, but they were quickly beaten back, and the home players made a very brisk attack, Settle sending the ball behind. McDermott followed with a sweet little shot, and the homesters closed in again, Young getting well placed, and after being once disappointed, got the better of Groves and beat Foulkes in grand fashion, the fine effort of the Everton centre being cheer all round the ground. Final Result; Everton 2 goals, Sheffield United nil.
Against the United at Goodison Park last season the Evertonians ran out winners by 2 goals to nil.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 12, 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Although unable to place their strongest side in the field. Everton managed to account for Sheffield United by two clear goals, and thus repeated the verdict of last year in the corresponding game precisely. Booth was an absentee owing to the suffering from an injured toe, and the reserves team player Chadwick was called upon to fill the vacancy. It is no easy matter to effectually substitute such a clever half back as Booth undoubtedly is, and if Chadwick's debut in First League football was not exactly a triumphant one, it was probably no worse than could have been accomplished by any of the other reserve half-backs, which the club possesses. To make the situation worse. Abbott twisted his knee in the first half of the game, and this materially lessened the efficiency of the work, and with their intermediate line thus below its customary strength, Everton may be said to have fared exceedingly well in winning so decisively. On the United side Priest was unable to play at full back, and this let in Milne an amateur who assists the second eleven usually, and also one of the Sheffield minor clubs on special occasions. Thus both teams had to bemoan the loss of one of their most experienced men, and may be said therefore, to have opposed each other on an even basis. The feature of the first half was the fine play of the extreme wings forwards on the two sides. Sharp and Hardman-especially the former- were given every opportunity of displaying their fine turn of speed, and they made the most of their chances. Repeatedly did the Everton right winger dash past his opponents, and centre beautifully in front of goal, and scarcely ten minutes had elapsed before Hardman had converted one of these chances with a neat header. Foulkes got the ball, but he could not keep it from entering the net. On the United side, the right wing past were not so prominent as Lipsham on the left, and the Chester youth initiated the majority of the raids on the home goal, but his efforts were not backed up by his comrades as they should have been. Lang and Donnelly proved more than serviceable recruits, and they know the location of the goal posts. But taken as a body, the Everton forward line was decidedly superior to that of the United. Young gave further evidence of the complete returns to form and, though faulty with a couple of glorious centres, which he bounced upon quite close to Foulkes, he compensated for these shortcomings by the able manner in which he distributed the play to his wings. There was life in his movements which, last year were often characterised by lack of determination near goal, but these latter failings were completely absent in the match with the United, and the difference in the effeciency of the forwards was most marked. Little fault could be found with the work of this line, for the men were eager, and when in possession alert and aggressive straight away. There was one exception perhaps for McDermott carried his coolness almost to the verge of disaster at times, and his attempts at goal were alarmingly ambitious. Settle was in a lively vein, his footwork being exceedingly clever, and frequently the passing all along the line was of the highest character. This was achieved in spite of the fact that the half-backs were not up to their usual standard of efficiency, and did not augment the efforts of their forwards to the extent that is generally the case. As already stated, Chadwick was attempting something a bit above his calibre, and he has much to learn before becoming even a likely candidate for the League eleven. Abbott stated well, but was handicapped in the later stages by the injury to his knee. Taylor was not very prominent, and is a lost force as a half-backs. He got through a vast amount of work however, and is unfortunate that his energies can not be utilised in the front rank. The full backs were left with more tackling to perform than has been the case for some time, and Crelly fairly distinguished himself in this respect, which more than compensated for some occasional mistiming in his returns. Balmer played a useful game, and Scott kept a really fine goal, two of his clearances near the finish from Donnelly and Lipsham respectively smart. United posses a very serviceable side, and they were not beaten until the final whistle blew. In fact they shaped more dangerous in the closing, stages that any other part of the game, and their perseverance deserved some reward, but they could not get the ball past, Scott though one cross shot from the right wing near the call of time found the keeper, as well, as the United left wingers unprepared for the leather. As already stated, Lipsham was the chief performer but the right wing, composed, of Lang and Donnelly displayed creditable form, and Brown in the centre also did well. In the intermediate line, Needham bore off the honours, and he had a sultry time of it in keeping Sharp under control. Wilkinson was like wise always worrying his opponents, but his efforts were not as successful as had been the case in former matches against Everton. Johnson gave a fair exhibition, and the same remark applies to the full backs, who kicked well when allowed plenty of room, but were not so effective when bustled. Foulkes gave a characteristic display in goal his hugh lunge and mighty fisting away of the ball eliciting the wonderment of the spectators. He kept out the low shots with as much ease as the higher ones, and considering his weight, he is a remarkably active keeper.

EVERTON’S SUCCESSFUL OPENING.
Athletic News - Monday 12 September 1904
By Junius
Everton have commenced their League campaign in promising style, and their first home match of the season, against Sheffield United, ended in precisely the same manner as last year, in a victory by two clear goals. At the last minute they had to make a change in what I consider the weakest part of their team —the half-back division—for Booth, who is suffering from an injured toe, found himself unable to turn out, and Chadwick. A local lad, who has figured in the Reserve team for some time, was called upon to fill the vacancy. This was a tall order for the young fellow, for he had never before played with the team in a League match, and, as after events proved, the task was too much for him.  Sheffield made one alteration in their eleven, Milnes, the amateur, taking the place of Priest at left back, but I don’t think this change handicapped the United as much as the absence of the Everton skipper affected the efficiency of the home combination. The United had to face a brilliant sun in the first half, and the conditions were more suggestive of cricket than football, a fact which, no doubt, may account for the rather lengthy interval. The early stages of the play were marked by some dashing work on the part of Lipsham, the United left-winger, but he did not receive the support which was necessary to crown his efforts from rest of the forward line. Gradually the Everton front rank settled down to some really clever combined movements, and Sharp was prominent in every raid, his fine turn of speed causing Needham and Milnes much anxiety. In one of his frequent attempts to stop the Everton outside right the Sheffield back resorted to illegal tactics near the penalty area, and the ball being well placed from the free kick, Hardman urged the leather into the net with his head, Foulke making a great effort to clear but without success. This came after seven minutes’ play, a represented the state of affairs also at half-time.
Donnelly and Lang tried to break past Crelley, but the left back was in rare tackling trim, and repeatedly pulled up the smart youngsters opposed to him. But Sharp was the star artist this half, and when long pass from Young enabled him to get clear away the danger caused Foulke to run out to get at the ball, with the result that he was baffled, and the Evertonian had an open goal in front of him. However, Groves dropped from somewhere in the immediate vicinity and managed to charge down the shot—a distinct slice of luck for the visitors. Up to breathing time Sharp was always in evidence, and his centres ought certainly to have been turned better account. In the second half the United played up in their stubbornly characteristic fashion, and Scott saved brilliantly from Lipsham in the first five minutes. A quarter of an hour later Young caught Groves in an undecided humour near goal, beat him in the struggle for possession and did likewise with Foulke, who was helpless. This was a coal due entirely to the vacillation of the full-back. But the "Blades” never ceased trying, and though Everton had more chances than their rivals in the remaining stages, the United gave Scott the more difficult shots to deal with. In the last minute almost, this young Celt displayed grand judgment in keeping out a beautiful cross from Lipsham, and Everton won two goals to nil. Everton held a decided superiority forward, and the capital work accomplished by this line was the cause of the disintegration of the United. There was only one weak spot, and this was at inside right, where McDermott was inclined to be tantalizingly cool—in fact he played into the hands of a worrying half-back like Needham by his dilatoriness at times. Otherwise it would be impossible to find fault with the Everton forward line. Young in the centre reminded me of his form of two seasons ago; there is a dash and vim about his work which suggests that this clever leader is once more in robust health. He distributed the play most judiciously to each wing, and though he missed two glorious chances of scoring from centres which came right to his toes. I make haste to say there was not a solitary onlooker that felt more like kicking himself than the good-tempered Scot. Sharp was brilliant at times, and the way he flashed along the touch-line, leaving the Sheffield backs practically standing still, was exhilarating to witness. More should have been made of his centres, which were placed most seductively in front of goal. Settle exhibited some clever footwork, and Hardman was irrepressible on the extreme left, and had Booth been in his usual place I fancy the United defence would have had a grueling time, for the forwards were keen and anxious for work, and there was any amount of go-ahead method in their movements. The half-barks were only moderate, for Abbott twisted his knee and this prevented him from doing himself justice, though he pluckily returned a few minutes after the interval.  But Taylor is not a half-back, and don’t fancy him in this position at all. He is a valuable unit wasted in the half-back line.  Chadwick did his best, but Booth was badly missed. Further behind, Crelley played a good game; his tackling was exceedingly fine, and he never made a mistake in this respect, but his returns were occasionally faulty.  Balmer was in his usually effective vein, kicking as sturdily as ever, and Scott kept a really excellent goal, exhibiting consummate judgement a few minutes before the finish in clearing Lipsham’s shot.  He is a capital keeper, and seems to know instinctively what is the best manager of dealing with the ball, no matter how it comes to him.  One quality forced itself to the front in the United’s display, and that a characteristic one; they never gave up, and their best and most dangerous efforts came when two goals in arrears.  Lipsham was by far the best for forward on the side, and with his long raking stride he sped along touch, centring with dangerous precision time after time.  The right wing pair, Lang and Donnelly, displayed promising form, and some of their attempts were deserving of a better fate than actually befell them.  As was the case on the Everton side, the half-backs were not so prominent as usual, though Needham got though a vast amount of work, and he stuck to Sharp like a leech, thus enabling Milnes to find space for breathing occasionally.  Wilkinson was useful, and Johnson accomplished much hard work, but none of the trio were especially noticeable.  The full-backs were not very reliable when hard pressed, and Groves ought never to have allowed Young to get the second goal.  Foulke could not be blamed for either of the shots which took effect, and his mighty clearances were hugely enjoyed by the crowd.  The giant keeper is a great favourite in Liverpool, and his display in goal was worthy of his best days.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; Taylor, Chadwick, and Abbott; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Sheffield United;- Foulke; Groves and F. Milnes; Johnson,

• Hull’s new Association team beat Everton Reserves 2-0 at Hull on Saturday, before 4,000 people.  There is hope for the “soccer” game there yet. 
• L.R. Roose, who has definitely severed his connection with Stoke, has bidden farewell to the North Staffordshire public, thanking them for their kindness to him.  The directors of the Stoke club on their part have passed a vote of thanks to Roose for the brilliant services he was rendered to them in the past.

NEWLY FORMED HULL CITY
Athletic News - Monday 12 September 1904
The newly-formed Hull City Association team played their first-week-end match on Saturday, when they defeated the Everton Combination by to goals to none.  Over 80 pounds was taken at the gate, which is an exceedingly good start, seeing that a first class Northern Union game was being played in the City between Oldham and Kingston Rovers.  The Associationists’ recent game with Notts County at Hull yielded nearly three figures on an off day.  The dribblers are likely to take root at the Third Port. 

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD UNITED
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 12 September 1904
At Goodison Park, before 20,000 spectators, in delightful weather. Booth, the Everton captain, stood down owing to an injured toe, and United had Milnes for Priest at left back. The game started at a rare pace, and in six minutes Hardman headed into the net from a free kick. Both goalkeepers had plenty of work, but the Everton forwards were smarter than the opposing attack. Half-time- Everton 1; United, nil.
United opened strongly in the second half, Scott saving grandly from Lipsham. Everton, however, attacked brilliantly, and after Foulke had repeatedly saved Young added a second goal. United played up strongly, but Scott and his backs were very safe. Settle headed past Foulke, but was ruled offside. The Everton forwards gave a fine display.
Result- Everton 2 Sheffield United 0

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 12 September 1904
The Blues had a fine reception at Goodison Park where some 25,000 spectators witnessed a really fine exhibition withy Sheffield United, who so far have made an inauspicious start by losing two games out of three played.  Everton have gained four points and should go on piling them up if we calculate on Saturday’s form, when they proved much superior to the Blades, despite the absence of Tom Booth, and it will be easily understood that with Wolstenholme also not at the half-back line which did duty was not the glorious one of yore. As a matter of fact the United’s forwards led the Evertonians a merry dance at times. The home forwards work with all the subtlety and cleverness of last season, and the line is wonderfully strengthened by Young, who showed much better form than for several seasons past. He seemed full of vitality and resource, and when he scored Foulke was completely outmanoeuvred. The Sheffield giant seemed ill at ease on Saturday, and at times cleared, but feebly. McDermott is the strategist of the line, and will prove a thorn in the side of opposing halves this season. Settle would do better to give up selfish tactics. Hardman is as quick and clever as last season, and the goal he scored was a fine example of excellent judgment- summing up the situation exactly. Sharp was well covered by Needham and Milnes, but at times he gave them both the slip, and his work led up to both goals which were scored. Crelly and Balmer had plenty to do, as the Sheffield forwards combined skilfully at times, though they shot without much sting or precision. The attack was often pressed home to the goalmouth, when Scott proved himself a custodian of rare ability. He is cool under the strongest pressure, shows plenty of resource, and clears with strength and freedom. Crelly delighted the crowd with some of his fine clearances and his resourceful tackling almost disheartened Long,  Donnelly and Brown, so often where they outwitted.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD UNITED
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 12 September 1904
At Goodison Park, before 18,000 people. Starting against a strong light. Sheffield forced the play, but Everton retaliated. Sharp testing Foulke with a high shot. A pass from Young enabled Sharp to race away, but from his centre Settle sent outside. Sharp was fouled, and Hardman scored from a free kick after six minutes’ play. United made several spirited attacks, in which Lipsham was prominent. Sharp brought out Foulke, but Groves saved the goal. For some time United pressed, but Scott was never in difficulties. Sharp dashed clean through, but Settle missed an open goal from his centre. Half-time;- Everton 1 goal, Sheffield United nil.
United restarted by forcing the home defence, and in the first minute Lipsham received close in and sent a tremendous shot into goal, where Scott brought off a fine clearance. Sharp led the way towards United territory, but Abbott with a nice opening shot feebly at Foulke. A corner quickly followed, but McDermott dallied, and Settle sadly blundered when five yards from the custodian. Desperate efforts were made by Lipsham and Donnelly, but Scott cleared. The home forwards eventually returned to the attack, and Young easily beating Groves, scored a second goal. Another combined movement ended in Settle sending across the goal mouth, where Sharp obtained possession, and putting in front again to Young the latter missed the easiest of chances. United persevered, and Donnelly sent across a dangerous centre, which was not utilised. Everton again forced matters towards the close, but failed to add anything tangible.
Result;- Everton 2 goals, Sheffield United nil.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD UNITED
Sheffield Independent - Monday 12 September 1904
UNITED AGAIN BEATEN
Fine weather favoured the meeting of these teams at Goodison Park, and during the afternoon there would probably be about 25,000 people present. Everton were short of Booth (the captain), who had injured a toe at Nottingham; whilst owing to indisposition Priest was unable to turn out for the United, his place being filled by F. Milnes, the amateur. The ground was in beautiful condition, and everything pointed to a fast and interesting game. Everton having won the toss, the United had to face both sun and wind. Brown started, and passing out to Lkipsham, the left winger forced a corner, but this was put to no good use, a goal kick resulting. From this Young passed to Sharp, who got away on his wing and swung the ball into goal, only to see Foulke fist it out nearly to the half-way line. A good centre by the United left saw Balmer head away, Wilkinson returning a low show which Scott easily cleared. Again Sharp was fed, and from his centre Settle was given an opening but that player shot wide. The United then worked down, but Lang shot wide, and once more Sharp got away unattended, but a free kick was given against Milnes. From this the ball was swung across, and Hardman headed into Foulkes’s hands, and to the surprise of everybody the United custodian let the ball glance through into the net, Everton thus scoring the first goal after about seven minutes’ play. From the centre kick the United got away, but a long shot from Lipsham was easily cleared. The game was pretty fast, but Everton were showing the better form, and Milnes and Groves were kept busy. After some midfield play, Lipsham forced another corner, and the flag kick caused some trouble, Lang forcing a second, but eventually the ball was placed over the line. A bit of good work by Milnes stopped one dangerous rush by Everton, and then the Sheffielders attacked, Chadwick giving a corner in trying to clear a centre from Lang, Needham immediately after shooting straight into Scott’s hands. After Young had been given offside, the ball was passed well out to Sharp, and Foulke rushing out was beaten, and a goal seemed certain when Groves dashed up and got in a punt and stopped the ball. The Everton halves were playing a very vigorous game, and though the Sheffielders attacked for a few minutes, they were quickly hustled off the ball. From a dash by Everton Settle got possession, but he shot very wide, and the United were soon again at the other end, where a mistake by the backs was covered by Scott, though he had to give a corner. This was not improved upon but still the visitors were holding their own in the open. Once Needham shot behind, whilst from a good centre by Hardman, McDermott headed wide with a good opening. Another brilliant run and centre y Sharp gave Settle a fine opening, but he missed it, and Foulke was enabled to clear. Young was pulled up for a foul, and after some pressure on the United goal Hardman was well offside as he shot behind. Young was next penalised for offside, and then the game was stopped owing to Brown being slightly winded. After a rather quiet spell the ball was again passed over to Sharp, but being pressed by Milnes the right winger sent behind. Then Donnelly shot in from a rather awkward angle, Scott saving easily enough. Another sprint by Sharp was cut short by the referee’s whistle going for a foul against the right winger, and from the free kick the United dashed down and forced still another corner, and from this Scott had to fist out in a hurry. Play now slowed down somewhat, but United were showing none too good form, and the passing to the right wing was always too hard, Lang being unable to reach the ball. A long centre from Sharp saw Hardman head over the bar, but still play went in favour of the home team, though there was no more scoring up to the interval, when Everton were leading by a goal to nothing.
On resuming the United were the first to attack, and from a centre from the right wing Lipsham put in a grand shot, which Scott just as grandly saved. After another attack had been cleared Everton got down, but Foulke saved easily from Abbott, and then the home team gained a lucky corner, Wilkinson giving a second, but some smart heading by the visitors cleared the danger. At length the visitors improved, and forced two corner kicks in quick succession, but at length Lipsham shot wide. Then a free kick was given against Scott close in, but the home team packed their goal and the danger was cleared. Then, from a free kick for hands against Chadwick, just outside the penalty line, the ball three times cannoned back from opponents when going straight for goal, and another fine shot from the United right wing was luckily buffeted back, and once more the danger was cleared. Then Everton forced a corner, but from this Foulke fisted out, and a rush was made to the other end, but a foul against Groves gave the home team a footing in the United half. From the free kick Abbott headed a shade wide. Another free kick against United saw the ball placed well, but Foulke caught and threw away, whilst from a corner against Groves, Needham cleared. With twenty minutes to go a long forward pass saw Young hustle Groves, who could not get the ball away, and gave Foulke no chance, with the result that Young added a second goal. From the centre kick the Sheffielders had another turn at attacking, but though they gained a corner, and put in two or three good shots, they could not get the ball past Scott. Then Settle was spoken to for bringing Needham down unfairly, and Hardman next brought Johnson down after the latter had parted with the ball. Another corner to United was easily got away, and Foulke had to save fast shots from Young and Hardman, whilst at the other end Scott saved well from Lipsham. Needham sent in a screw shot, which Balmer got away, and Brown missed a good opening through dallying. The Sheffielders were now doing nearly all the attacking, but the Everton backs and half-backs defended vigorously. A bit of smart passing put Brown in possession, but once more he failed. Some capital work by the visitors’ left wing ended in Lipsham sending in a beautiful centre, and with two men well up to receive the ball a goal appeared certain. Scott, however, farted out of goal, and succeeded in altering the course of the goal, and succeeded in altering the course of the ball- a very clever piece of work. Time was called shortly afterwards with the score as follows;- Everton 2 goals, Sheffield United 0 goals.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Chadwick, and Abbott, half-backs; McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Sheffield United.- Foulke, goal; Groves and F.H. Milnes, backs; Johnson, B. Wilkinson, and Needham. Half-backs; Lang, Donnelly, Brown, Drake, and Lipsham, forwards.
Referee, Mr. T. Kirkham, Burslem.

EVERTON GOING WELL
Liverpool Echo - Monday 12 September 1904
Everton won again. Their two victories make a decidedly promising start. Booth was unable to turn out, and it is possible that tonight when the team face the Villa, he will be an absentee. Worse than that, Abbott will probably be absent through a twisted knee. He was unable to do himself justice on Saturday against Sheffield United in a sterling, but not classical, encounter. He was in extreme pain, and it weas plucky of him to last through the match. What with Booth away, Abbott injured, and Chadwick a failure the half back line was the least shinning light of the team. That was only natural. Forward, however, we saw some capital passing pout in by a quarter, McDermott being the one man who did not stir himself. One is inclined to think that in a few weeks’ time, when he gets off some of the superfluous winter clothing, he will show what he has undoubtedly in him. Saturday’s display must be improved upon, or he will perhaps be displaced. Crelly gave a very pretty exhibition, and repeatedly stopped the go-ahead tactics of the United forwards. Balmer was rather reckless, and his partner’s work shone out brilliantly in comparison. Sharp delighted all by the way he darted off with the ball, and either sent in a swinging centre straight away or a deadly shot. Young, Settle, and Hardman combined in a capital style. Needham was the Needham of old, and Lipsham was the best of the forwards by a long way.

ASTON VILLA v. EVERTON.
Leeds Mercury - Tuesday 13 September 1904
At Aston on a wet ground before 4.000 spectators, both teams were rearranged owing accidents and other considerations. Villa requisitioned Noon at right half and Watkins at centre, and Brown was dropped for Miles ait back, -while Makepeace, Chadwick, and Dilly came in for Everton. Goals by Dilly and Settle were disallowed for off-side. Both custodians were active, and at half-time there was no score. After the interval both sides came near scoring. george saved finely from Settle. Brawn got in some clever shots, and Gray and Noon also severely tested the Everton defence. Villa got the upper hand, and Brawn scored a grand goal just on time. Result Villa 0ne goal, to Everton nil.

ASTON VILLA V. EYERTON.
Dundee Courier - Tuesday 13 September 1904
At Aston, in dull weather. The ground was greasy, and the football seen was not of a high class. The Villa attacked at the start, but the Everton defence was sound. From throw Everton found the net, but Settle was palpably offside when he shot. The home side were weak in front of the goal subsequently. Interval: —Aston Villa, 0; Everton, 0. In the second half the Villa played much better football, Brown getting in some fine centres which were cleared with difficulty. Spencer and Miles had plenty to do, but generally the Villa were the better side, although was not until about a minute from the end that Brown ran through and scored the only goal. Result: —Villa, 1; Everton, 0.

ASTON VILLA 1 EVERTON 1
September 13, 1904 The Liverpool Daily Post
Sharp sprained his Knee and retired early in the first half.
The remarkable popularity of the Everton team was strikingly emphasized yesterday when several thousands followers of the club travelled to Birmingham to witness the encounter between the Goodison Park brigade and Aston Villa. The weather unfortunately was wretched, the Midland capital being enveloped in a dreary drizzle, and this had a great effect on the gate, these being a very small attendance when play began. Owing to injuries and other causes, neither side was at full strength. Hardman, who is suffering from a sore throat, was unable to play, and Abbott, owing to a severely wrenched knee, was also an absentee. It had been hoped that Booth would be able to turn out, but his toe was still damaged, and Chadwick had again to do duty for him. Dilly took Hardman's place and Makepeace appeared instead of Abbott. The enforced absentee of Evans also handicapped the Villa. Wilkes and Johnson so that neither held any great advantage so far as personnel went. Teams: - Aston Villa: - George, goal, Spencer, and Miles, backs, Noon, Gray, and Leake, half-backs, Brawn Hall, Watkins, Bache and Garratty, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs, Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Dilly, forwards. Referee Mr.Nunnerley. Balmer won the toss, and the home team started in the face of a fresh breeze. After the opening exchanges, the Villa moved down strongly on the left, and Garritty, going at to speed, put in a splendid shot, which Scott fisted out. The Evertonians then advance on the right, but they were pulled up short, and a free kick to the Villians looked ominous. Spencer placed the ball splendidly, and Bache running in gave Scott a difficult task, but the latter rose to the occasion, and cleared coolly. Everton gain took up the running and Settle was about to shoot when the home skipper cleared. The home side were now, having the bulk of the attack. From a couple of free kicks Spencer placed the ball in the goalmouth, but on each occasion the Everton defence proved sound, and the danger was averted. From this point the Evertonians beaten in assert themselves strongly. Dilly raced down the wing, and passed to Settle who banged the ball in, but George intercepted and Young catching the return, spoiled a splendid chance by shooting high over the bar. It was not long, however, before the visitors resumed to the attack with renewed vigour, and a corner was forced of Milnes. This was well placed by Sharp, and after a short scrimmage in front of George, Settle, headed the ball into the net, but the referee after consulting both linemen, disallowed the point- apparently on the ground for offside. Play now became faster than ever, and Sharp on one occasion sprinted grandully down the wing. He centred well, and Young got to the ball but he shot, failed in making the centre, Sharp sprained his knee, and he had to retire from the field. In spite of this the Evertonians continued to enjoy all the best of the argument and Dilly had a open goal before him, when he shot remarkably wide. Still the Goodison park men kept pegging away and both the home backs had more than once in trouble. They were however, very ably aided by the halves, who constantly dropped back to their assistance. And so saved off defeat. Some neat dribbling by the Everton forwards ended in a good centre, but Settle was obviously offside, when he netted the ball with a low shot. The next item of interest was a break away on the inside left which, scrimmage to Garritty who sending in a clever shot, when just topped the crossbar. Then the visiting forwards once more took up the running, and McDermott from long range shot high over George's charge. Each side being but on the defensive in rapid succession. A dangerous shot from Brawn was well cleared by Balmer and a moment later George had to deal with a difficult dropping shot from the foot of McDermott. Then Settle from a pass by Sharp who had resumed, shot in a low swift one, which was most dealt with by Spencer. Towards the interval the play slowed down considerably, and a series of long kicks, and rushes materially spoiled the quality of the football. Everton during this period were still the aggressors for the most part, but their shooting when within close range was always lacking in sting. Just before half-time Brawn made desperate efforts to rush away on the wing, but speedy through he was, Crelly so hampered him that he was unable to get in a fine shot. Then, from a run down by Garritty, Bache put in a magnificent low shot, which brought Scott to his knees, but the Irishmen cleared brilliantly. A second later Garritty put one towards the corner of the net, but Scott throwing himself prone, saved at the expense of a fruitless corner. Half-time Villa nil, Everton nil. When play was resumed there were fully 6,000 people present. The home team began to put on pressure, and in the first five minutes. Brawn sent in a glorious ground shot right from the corner flag, which the Everton custodain saved with rare skill. After this the Villians began to exert the greatest pressure, and the Everton goal was distinctly lucky in escaping capture. Time after time the forwards who were now showing improved football, attacking down on Scott's charge, and it was only the vigilance of the custodian that averted disaster. On one occasion Noon sent in a rally terrific shot, which seemed certain to score but Chadwick managed to intercept it just under the bar. The Villa, however, maintained their attack, and they were rewarded in the very last minute of the game, Brawn scoring with a somewhat lucky shot, result Aston Villa 1 Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 ST HELENS TOWN 1
September 13, 1904. The Liverpool Daily Post
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 2)
At Goodison Park, before a poor attendance. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Kitchen goal, McCratney, and Wildman, backs, Clayton, Hanlin, and Hutchinson, half-backs, Rankin, Sheridan, Roberts, Caldwell, and Dodd, forwards. St Helen Town: - Critchley goal, A.N.Other, and Yates, backs, Dixon, Prescott, and Lorat half-backs Rogers, Howarth, Taylor, Rigby, and Barendale forwards. Roberts commenced operations, and the first few minutes were spent in midfield. The Everton forwards eventually got going and the St Helens custodian was subjected to a revere bombardment. Roberts however, put an end to the pressure by shooting yards over the bar, a performance which was represented in every detail a few minutes later by Howarth at the other end. Roberts was again at fault with his final effort when favourably placed. Both sides put in some clever work, the Forwardss in each case being particularly active in the open, but they failed miserably in their attempts to force home the attack. Rankin was prominent with some really fine runs. His centres however, were usually charged down or made bad use off by the home centre. A mistake on the part of one of the St.Helens backs let in Roberts, who taking deliberate aim, easily beat Critchley. Everton continued on the aggressive, but the visitors were by no means idle, the forwards finding plenty of work for the Everton backs. Rankin cleverly outwitted the St.Helen's defence, and centring at the right moment Sheridan very neatly beat Critchley for the second time. Howarth sent the leather high over the bar, while Dixon was very little out in his final reckoning from long range. At the interval Everton led by 2 goals to nil. St Helens started after the interval, and each end was visited in turn with nothing, save a baron corner to everyone. Clever work by the whole of the St.Helens forwards enabled Taylor to notch their first point. This encourage helped to put new life into the visitors attack and Rodgers after running half the length of the field put the leather hit the corner of the goal. While Everton were quite determined to prevent them scoring, later on Critchley saved a beauty from Sheridan, while a moment later Dodd missed an open goal, and Everton won by two goals to one.

ASTON VILLA v  EVERTON
Birmingham Daily Post - Tuesday 13 September 1904
Aston Villa were at home yesterday, when they encountered Everton at Villa Park, and a game which for the most part was of an uninteresting character ended in a win for the Villa by 1 goal to 0. the weather throughout the day was of a most depressing character, and only about 5,000 spectators assembled to witness the game. Various changes were effected in the home eleven, and the teams which eventually took the field were;-
Aston Villa.- George, goal; Spencer and Miles, backs; Noon, Gray, and Leake, half-backs; Brawn, Hall, Watkins, Bache, and Garraty, forwards.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Dilly, forwards.
Referee, Mr. W. Nunnerley (Wrexham).

The Villa lost the toss, and so kicked off against the wind, which blew rather strongly down the ground, greatly to the advantage of Everton. A forward rush by the home attack was checked by Balmer and Crelly, the former of whom relived the pressure by some good kicking, which transferred play to the home territory. The visiting forwards gave Spencer and Miles a great deal of trouble, but it was only on rare occasions that they came dangerous close to goal. A few minutes’ play enabled the Villa to settle down to earnest work, and then for a considerable period they had matters much their own way. Garraty placed one centre to his credit which should have been turned to account, but the centre men were not sufficiently up. Scott, however, only cleared with difficulty, and had to concede a corner, which was kicked behind. Shortly after Hall had a chance of shooting, but held the ball too long, and lost it to Makepeace, who transferred to his wing. A mistake by Spencer permitted Dilly to send in a centre, and an exciting time ensued in front of the Villa goal. George cleverly saved on one occasion by fisting out, and it was not until Chadwick had kicked over the bar that the danger was at an end. The Everton forwards were playing with both determination and dash, and they succeeded in keeping up the attack, notwithstanding the efforts of the home defence. Finally Sharp, from a corner, passed across to Settle, who sent the ball to Dilly, and the latter from an offside position placed it into the net. The referee, after consulting the linesmen, disallowed the point. The game allowing for the inevitable changes of fortune, had latterly been in favour of the visitors, and they experienced hard luck in losing Sharp for several minutes. An injury to the knee forced this player to leave the ground, and though he ultimately returned he was not in his previous form. The dampness of the ground, which rendered the ball slippery and heavy, had a telling effect on the play, which suffered in consequence. Spencer was nothing like so successful in his kicking as is usually the case, and the home half-backs and forwards were not combining so well as might have been expected. Taken altogether, the Villa display was poor, and when in front of goal there was a lamentable lack of initiative and waste of time in shooting. Brawn got in one centre, which Garraty almost converted, but on the whole the Everton goalkeeper had an easy time. Leake, of the half-backs, performed well, but of the two teams the visitors were the more alert and quicker on the ball. The score at halt-time was- Villa 0 Everton 0
In the second half the Villa were a much improved team, and gave a far superior display as compared with their previous efforts. The forwards played with greater freedom and spirit, and on several occasions subjected the Everton goal to a hot bombardment. They received more help from the half-backs, who were seen to better advantage, both in tackling the opposing forwards and in passing to their own attack. Very early Brawn returned to his old form, and delighted the spectators with some of his fast runs, which quite altered the aspect of the game. Time after time he changed the venue to the visitors’ half, and enabled his side to obtain the advantage. Excellent as the Villa eleven played, there was still a weak spot in the centre of the attack, with the result that the work of the outside men was frequently nullified. Gray placed in a splendid shot, which just skimmed the crossbar, and this was followed a moment later by a hot fusillade on the Everton goal. Hard as the Villa men tried, they could not manage to beat Scott, and bad luck was experienced more than once. The Everton left wing were responsible for some skilful play, which carried the ball to the Villa half, but, notwithstanding the spirited efforts pf Dilly and Settle, it was not often that George was troubled. During the last quarter of an hour the game assumed an exciting aspect, and went in favour of the Villa. Brawn and Noon sent in splendid shots, which deserved a better fate, and it seemed as if the game would end in a pointless draw. Just on time, however, Brawn obtaining the winning point for the Villa with a fast shot, which Scott failed to stop.
Result- Villa 1, Everton 0
The play in the two halves was of a very different character. In the first the Villa were far below their customary form, and appeared to disadvantage when compared with their opponents. In the latter stages they exhibited their old staying power, and quite wore out the Everton men, and with a little more dash in front of goal the winning point would have been more quickly forthcoming. The honours of the forward line were easily carried off by Brawn, while Garraty also accomplished much hard work. Leake and Noon tackled well, and no doubt the damp condition of the ground greatly interfered with the kicking of the backs. The Everton team as a whole gave the Villa a good game, but were outplayed in the second half.

EVERTON v  ASTON VILLA
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 13 September 1904
The Everton team were due at Birmingham yesterday in order to fulfil the first of their engagements with Aston Villa. The meeting of these two formidable rivals is always of exceptional interest, and this was demonstrated yesterday by the fact that several thousand people travelled to the Midland city in order to see the match. Neither team unfortunately, was at full strength, injuries having already made themselves felt thus early in the season. From the Everton ranks Hardman, Abbott, and Booth were all absentees. The amateur is suffering from a sore throat; Abbott wrenched his knee very badly on Saturday; and Booth’s damaged toe still unfitted him for service. On the other hand, the Villa were without the assistance of Wilkes, Evans, and Johnson. The weather was wet and miserable, and there was a very sparse attendance when the teams lined up as follows;-
Aston Villa.- George, goal; Spencer and Miles, backs; Noon, Gray, and Leake, half-backs; Brawn, Hall, Watkins, Bache, and Garraty, forwards.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Dilly, forwards.
Referee, Mr. W. Nunnerley (Wrexham).
The Villa lost the toss, and Watkins started in the face of a fresh breeze. They at once made progress on the left, and Garraty, running in, put in a hot shot, which caused Scott to fist out. The visitors attempted to make ground on the right, but they were well checked, and then a free kick to the home side gave them a likely opening. This was capitally placed, and Bache, dashing in, gave the Everton custodian an exceedingly warm handful. Scott cleared, and the Goodison Park forwards moved along in promising style, and Settle was well within shooting range when Spencer jumped in and cleared at the expense of a slightly damaged leg. He was soon all right, however, and the game proceeded at a fast and exciting pace. A few moments later the Evertonians returned to the attack, and Sharp beating Miles, centred grandly, but Young was unable to direct the ball into the net. At this period the visitors were doing the bulk of the pressing, and a very clever forward movement was spoiled at the last minute through Settle being off-side. The home team then made ground in nice order, and from a free kick Spencer put in a fine shot, which struck the crossbar. It was not long before the Evertonians resumed the aggressive, and the whole forward line were concerned in an attack upon George’s charge. The Villa custodian, however, was splendidly supported by the two backs, and shots from McDermott, Young, and Settle were all cleared. At this time the visitors were distinctly playing the better game, their passing being neater and their footwork generally of superior quality to their opponents. Sharp on one occasion raced down and forced a corner. This was admirably placed, and from the tussle that ensued Settle headed the leather into the net, but Mr. Nunnerley, after consulting both linesmen, ruled the Evertonian off-side. Nothing daunted, the visitors proceeded to exert increased pressure, and another brilliant sprint by Sharp gave Young possession, but the latter was too slow, and before he could steady himself and shoot Spencer dashed in and cleared his lines. The Goodison Park contingent, however, still persisted, and hot shots were sent in by McDermott and Young, but all to no purpose. Sharp then tried another run on his own account, and in centring strained his knee, with the result that he had to leave the field, but he was soon back again. The game was now going all in favour of the visitors, and an exceedingly clever forward movement terminated in Settle netting a second time, but on this occasion the international was obviously offside. Nearing the interval both sides put on double pressure, but in each instance the defence proved, thoroughly sound, though McDermott once had very hard lines in failing to find the net. Brawn then dashed down in his most dangerous fashion, but Balmer cleared just in the nick of time, and a second or two later Scott greatly distinguished himself by saving a swift ground shot from Watkins.
Half-time- Everton nil, Aston Villa, nil.
The second half of the game ruled strongly in favour of the Villa, who showed much better football, a couple of corners were forced in rapid succession, but they came to nothing, and then Garraty put in a couple of shots which brought out all the qualities of the Everton keeper. Breakaway by Sharp and Dilly ended in the ball being well centred, but the home backs met them, and on both occasions the threatened danger was cleared. After a spell of midfield work Noon got possession, and put in a lightning shot, which was sailing into the net when Chadwick luckily got his foot to it, and so saved an otherwise certain goal. Honours were easy up to within a minute of time, when the home forwards advanced on the right, and Brawn scored with a swift shot. A few seconds later the whistle sounded, leaving the result –
Aston Villa 1 Everton 0

EVERTON BEATEN ON TIME
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 13 September 1904
By Bee.
Aston Villa defeated Everton in the last minute of the game. Up to that point it had looked long odds on a pointless draw, for both goals had been defended with great resolution. Neither side was up to full strength. Booth, Abbott, and Hardman were all away from the visitors’ ranks owing to injuries. The Villa on paper appeared a very curious blend. Noon played right half-back, Watkins centre forward, and Garratty outside left. In the first half Everton were by far the smarter, and they worked hard for a goal which never came. Once the ball was put through but Settle was offside. After reversing the Villa woke up in wonderful fashion, especially in the last thirty minutes. They were quick on the ball, they worked hard, and some of the passing was excellent. The feature of the Everton play was the defence. Scott could not be blamed for the goal, and he did some smart things; but Balmer and Crelly covered him admirably, they were capital, and they had heaps of opportunities of demonstrating the fact. The reserve halves were not up to the Everton standard. The forwards were better at the outset than during the later stages and Sharp and McDermott made some very dangerous dashes. It was unfortunate that Everton with so weak a team, should hold out so well only to be robbed of a point in the final minute.

EDWARD HUGHES (half-back)
Tottenham and Edmonton Weekly Herald - Wednesday 14 September 1904
Known to his friends as “Ted,” is a Taffy, having been born in Ruabon some 24 years ago, but most of his life has been spent in and around Liverpool. His first club of note was Formby, for whom he played two seasons. Everton, ever on the prowl, soon spotted him, and he has played during the last three seasons for them. Last year he got a chance of distinguishing himself in several of the first league matches, which he did to the satisfaction of everybody. Gallant little Wales though they could only honour him by picking him for all their three internationals last season. He played against Ireland and Scotland, but owing to injury in the last match, had to stand down against England. Ted is a dashing half, fears nothing, strong at head play, and shoots well. He stands 5ft 8in., and weights 11st 4lbs. there seems to be a bright future before him, and he can play in any position in the half back line, although left half is his favourite place.

FOOTBALL CHATTER
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 14 September 1904
By Bee
Everton make the journey to Newcastle on Saturday and perhaps will find the United a hard nut to crack. One of their forwards is Templeton, who is a player of moods- a young fellow I sympathise with, because if he were to put his best foot forward he would be the most prominent outside left in the county. However, he goes by fits and starts this versatile player of 5ft 9in. McCombie the United back, was born in Inverness, and was six season with Sunderland. Everyone knows the trouble which led to his leaving the Wearsiders. Twice he has been capped for the Scots. Orr is the United’s most prolific goal-getter. Taylor will possibly make a mental note of this fact.

NELSON S IMPORTANT CAPTURE
Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 15 September 1904
The Nelson Football Committee have to-day signed Simpson, who last season played with Everton Reserve. and who also acted as pro. to the heywood Cricket Club. He formerly played with Leicester Fosse, and a transfer fee of £2OO was paid when he went to Everton. He will be included in the Nelson team at outside left on Saturday in the friendly match.

EVERTON’S SICK LIST
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 15 September 1904
CAPTAIN AND HARDMAN MAY TURN OUT ON SATURDAY
By Bee
Hardman, nasty cold; Abbott, twisted knee; Booth, kick on the calf of the leg. These are the present “casualties” in the Everton ranks. Abbott is a doubtful starter for Saturday. However, Hardman and Booth will probably be fit enough to turn out against Newcastle United. The tea, leave to-morrow afternoon, and break the journey at Harrogate. The kick-off is three o’clock-a variance from other matches.
The Combination encounter at Goodison Park, promises to be more than usually interesting. Southport Central were last season champions of the “B” Division, and Everton, head of the “A” set, fought a tie with them at the Park enclosure. As they could not beat them then, the result of Saturday’s match will be worth noting.

EVERTON MINUS SHARP AND ABBOTT
Liverpool Echo - Friday 16 September 1904
By Bee
The Everton Football Club are now on their journey to Harrogate, where they put up for a night, completing the journey tomorrow morning to Newcastle, where they meet the United. The Liverpool team have never yet gone to St. James’s Park and won a match where points have been in question. That is bad enough an omen, but when you remember that to-morrow’s team is a weak one you will agree that if they make a draw it will be a meritorious performance. Though Booth and Hardman are back with the team again there are disappointments, for Sharp who is making a centre in the game at Aston on Monday sprained his knee, and Abbott, who wrenched his knee in the Sheffield match, are unable to play. This is most unfortunate for the club can ill spare two such capital players. Rankin and Makepeace will fill the vacant spots, and all the supporters will hope that the team will provide a pleasing surprise for them.

OUTDOORS SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 17 September 1904
Everton have another hard task on hand this afternoon in having to tackle Newcastle United at St. Jame’s Park. Two away matches in succession like Aston Villa and Newcastle, within the space of five days, is very trying to a club, even when able to utilise its fullest resources, but when these capable teams have to be tackled with a weakened side, the outlook becomes decidedly gloomy. This is Everton’s position at the present time. They were only beaten by a goal to nil at Birmingham on Monday last, with Abbott, Booth, and Hardman away. To-day Abbotts will still be an absentee, and Sharp, who strained one of the muscles of his leg last week, will likewise be unable to travel north. Makepeace and Rankin will fill the respective vacancies thus created and under these circumstances Everton will have all their work cut out to avert defeat. Last season, in the corresponding game, Everton were beaten by a goal to nil, a result which seems the most likely issue to this afternoon’s struggle.
Newcastle United v Everton… H. Ward, T.E Thompson and J.A Scott.
Everton.- Scott. Goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P Hardman, forwards. Reserve Chadwick.
The Lancashire Combination Division A
Everton v Southport Central, Goodison Park
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Muir, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Tutt, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Reserve McCartney.

EVERTON MINUS SHARP AND ABBOTT
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 17 September 1904
The Everton team, who stayed last night at Harrogate, will complete their journey this morning to Newcastle, where they meet the United. The team has never yet gone to St. James’s Park and won a match where points have been in question. That is bad enough an omen, but when it is remembered that to-day’s team is a weak one, it will be agreed that if they make a draw it will be a meritorious performance. Though Booth and Hardman are back with the team again there are disappointments, for Sharp, who in making a centre in the game at Aston on Monday sprained his knee, and Abbott, who wrenched his knee in the Sheffield match, are unable to play. This is most unfortunate for the club can ill spare two such capital players. Rankin and Makepeace will fill the vacant spots, and all the supporters will hope that the team will provide a pleasing surprise for them.
Newcastle United v Everton
League match at Newcastle; kick-off 3. 
Everton.- Scott. Goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P Hardman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Southport Central
Lancashire Combination match at Goodison Park; kick-off 3.30.
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Hanlin, Muir, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Tutt, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON v  NEWCASTLE UNITED
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 17 September 1904
League Division 1
NEWCASTLE LEAD AT THE INTERVAL
In view of this highly important fixture at Tyneside, the Everton team journeyed north on Friday afternoon, breaking the tedium of travelling at Harrogate, where the night was quietly spent. The players proceeded thence to Newcastle in good time this morning, and all were reported as being fit and well. It was, however, distinctly unfortunate that the Goodison Park contingent were unable to put their full strength on the field. Abbott is still suffering from a wretched knee, and Sharp, having twisted a ligament at Birmingham on Monday, was debarred from taking part in the game. This weakness on the Everton side was the more regrettable, inasmuch as the club has never yet succeeded in beating the United at St. James’s Park, and the chances of doing so to-day were rendered comparatively remote. Nevertheless, a keen struggle was anticipated, and in Newcastle this morning the prospects of the game were eagerly discussed. The weather was beautifully mild and fine, and long before the time fixed for the start a steady stream of spectators set in towards that part of the town common now known as St. James’s Park. It had been hoped that Tom Booth would have been able to turn out for the side which he captains with such judgement, but at the last moment it was found advisable to let him rest further. Chadwick, therefore, did duty again in the centre half position, and Makepeace once more officiated for Abbott. Sharpe’s position was filled by Rankin, while at the opposite wing Hardman resumed his customary place. The home side were without the service of Appleyard and Orr, but otherwise they were at full strength, the men finally facing each other as follows;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Newcastle.- Watts, goal; McCracken and McCombie, backs; Gardiner, Aiken (Captain), and Carr, half-backs; Rutherford, Howie, Veitch, McWilliams, and Templeton, forwards.
Referee; H. Ward.
Aiken won the toss, and Everton started with their backs to the sun, in the presence of 25,000 spectators. After the preliminary exchanges the visitors ran down on the right, but McCombie checked and then Templeton and McWilliam made ground, the latter finally shooting tamely outside. Hardman and Settle then earned the plaudits of the crowd by reason of a smart sprint along the left, but the inside man lost possession, and Newcastle taking up the running, the Everton goal was subjected to a rather warm bombardment. Howie and Veitch both had shots, but they went wide, and then a corner was forced off Balmer. This came to nothing, but it was almost immediately followed by a second one, which caused the visitors’ defence anxious time. A clearance was eventually made, and Settle and Hardman again made ground, but only to be checked by McCracken. The home forwards gradually made ground again, and Taylor saved a shot from Veitch at the expense of another corner. This was splendidly placed, and from the bully which ensued Howie shot with terrific force just outside. Following this Everton got going in business-like fashion on the right, and some neat work by McDermott ended in Young getting possession, but he shot just wide of the mark. The visitors now began to assert themselves strongly, and the right wing was once more in evidence with some exceedingly clever footwork. Rankin, from the corner flag put in a glorious centre, and Hardman rushing up was just about to breast the leather into the net when McCracken jumped in and cleared with marvellous cleverness. Taking up the attack again, McWilliam raced down and put in a long shot, which Veitch tried to convert, but Scott rushed out and charged him, and while the pair were on the ground Crelly ran across and cleared. Then followed a most prominent onslaught on the Everton goal, McWilliam, Veitch, and Howie all having shots, but without success. The home forwards were now being very ably backed up by the halves and as a result the Evertonians were for a time literally penned within their own territory. Indeed at this period of the game the visitors were fairly outplayed, and it was only good luck that prevented them from being beaten more than once. A fine bit of work by Aitken gave Veitch possession, and the centre from ma short range sent in a terrific that which brought Scott to his knees. He succeeded in clearing, however, and a second later he also intercepted one from McWilliam. After a long spell of purely defensive work, the Evertonians made play on the right, and Rankin put in another grand centre, which Settle only just failed to meet. McCombie cleared and the Newcastle United right wing got down. Crelly was beaten by the pair, and Rutherford dashing up put in a splendid high shot, which struck the inside of the upright and glanced into the net without giving Scott any chance of saving. This success put the homesters in high good humour, and they now put on redoubled pressure. A forward movement by the visitors looked promising, but Young when in a good position was again found wanting, and it was not long before the United forwards were again swarming around Scott. So determined were their efforts that the Everton defence seemed momentarily paralysed and from a clinking centre by McWilliam Veitch banged the ball into the net with great force. This second goal was received with vociferous cheers by the great crowd the game proceeding at an even accelerated speed. There was a conspicuous lack of cohesion among the Everton front rank, and though they got within shooting range on several occasions they invariably lost the ball just at the crucial moment. The United men on the other hand showed much better combination, and as a result they were distinctly more dangerous when in front of goal. Rutherford ran down the wing, and from close range struck the side of the net. As the interval drew near, the Evertonians tried desperately hard to make up the leeway against them, and at length their efforts were rewarded. Rankin, who throughout had shown conspicuous dash, put in another of his crisp centres. This was headed away by McCracken but Hardman catching the return scored with a swift low shot which sent the leather into the corner of the net. The visitors now took heart of Grace, and for some time they enjoyed the bulk of the pressure, Young being within an ace of scoring when he was knocked off the ball by McCombie. A free kick gave them another opening, and from this Rankin put in a high dropping shot, which Watts saved at the expense of a fruitless corner. Just before half time United attacked again, but Balmer cleared, and at half time the score the score stood-Newcastle 2, Everton 1
A HARD GAME
EVERTON LOSE POINTS BY A GOAL
On restarting the home lot at once ran down, and Rutherford put in a beautiful shot which just failed to find its intended mark. A throw in near the Everton goal gave the home side a nice opening, but the ball was sent over the line. From the goal-kick Everton made play on the right, McDermott and Settle beating McCombie, but McCracken stepped in and cleared the United lines. After this play was of an open order, and in the stiff breeze that was blowing considerable difficulty was experienced in keeping the ball down. Hardman colliding with McCracken, hurt his foot badly, but in spite for an obvious limp he stuck gamely to his guns, and a moment later he put in a glorious long shot, which Watts threw out of the corner of the net. The Everton forwards now pressed hotly round the home goal, and Rankin had a shot on his own account, which passed across. The visitors, however, kept pegging away, and McDermott and Rankin were to the fore with some wonderfully smart work. It was all to no purpose, however, for both the United backs displayed consummate coolness. Having cleared their lines the home players made ground on the left, and Taylor, in checking the advance, came under the ban of the referee. Following upon this, the game ruled fast and exciting, and both goals were visited in rapid succession, but without success attending the efforts of either side. Four minutes from time Settle equalised for Everton, and then, two minutes later, Veitch scored a third goal for Newcastle.
Final result; Newcastle United 3 goals, Everton 2 goals.
Newcastle United won their home fixture last season against Everton by 1 goal to nil.

EVERTON v  SOUTHPORT CENTRAL
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 17 September 1904
Lancashire Combination -Div A
The weather was fine this afternoon at Everton, and there were about 5,000 present when the following teams turned out;-
Everton.- Dent. Goal; Wildman and McCartney, backs; Hutchinson, Balmer, and Hanlin half-backs; Tutt, Sheridan, McAdams; Caldwell and Dilly, forwards.
Central.- Garvey goal; Spink and Dodson, backs; half-backs; Sinclair, Turner, and Tickle, half-backs; Bradshaw, Edmonds, Smith, Dawson, and Danson, forwards.
McAdam opened on behalf of Everton, and the opening stages were of an even nature. The visitors, however, favoured by the wind, were soon in evidence, and Dawson scored in the first few minutes of the game. Everton made determined efforts to equalise, but the defence of the visitors was superb, Garvey had one or two ticklish shots to deal with, which he cleverly negotiated. Play became very fast either side putting in all they knew, but the score remained the same. Sheridan shot over the crossbar. The Central then got down to the other end, but nothing of note was done, and Everton made a brilliant run up the field on the left, Dilly shooting nicely across to McAdam, who equalised by heading into the net. A minute or two later Sheridan shot a few inches over the bar. Everton were pressing at the interval, when the score was 1 goal each.
Final Everton Combination 1, Southport Central 1

EVERTON AGAIN DEFEATED.
London Daily News - Monday 19 September 1904
Both Everton and Newcastle made several changes in this match at Newcastle, account players being injured. The United pressed from the start, and Scott had plenty of work to do. At length Rutherford scored for and Veitch increased the home lead. Before the interval Hardman got through for Everton. who were still one goal down when ends were changed. The visitors played strongly in the second half. Settle equalizing, but Veitch scored again for Newcastle, who won by three goals two.

EVERTON DRAW WITH SOUTHPORT
Athletic News - Monday 19 September 1904
Much interest was centred in the meeting of Everton Reserve with Southport Central at Goodison Park, and after a well-contested game the honours were shared, though on the play the visitors deserved to win.  Dawson opened the scoring for the Central, but before the interval McAdam equalized and as nothing was registered in the second half the final verdict was one goal each.  Everton were without Chadwick, Makepeace, Rankin and Kitchen, the three former being engaged at Newcastle with the premier eleven, and this of course, affected the chances of the “Blues,”  Though the game was hard fought the Central player gave a capital exhibition, and were more dangerous than the home side.  Dawson played a capital game forward, and Smith in the centre distributed the work along the line very judiciously.  Spink was the most prominent of the full backs, and Garvey, who had little to do in goal, saved one or two shots smartly.  On the other hand, his vis-à-vis, Dent, proved himself a very capable keeper. 

LUCKY WIN FOR NEWCASTLE
Athletic News - Monday 19 September 1904
By Northumbrian
At St. James’s Park, Newcastle United defeated Everton by three goals to two, and I venture to assert that the 22,000 spectators who passed through the turnstiles will readily confess that the Novocastrians were extremely lucky to appropriate the maximum points with a goal that was scored in the last three minutes.  The robust tactics of McAllister, the old Sunderland half-back who is now association with Derby County appears to have wrought havoc amongst Tyneside forwards on the occasion of their visit to Derby last Saturday, for both Appleyard and Orr were rendered incapable of figuring in their customary places in the team that opposed Everton on Saturday.  Newcastle United possess several powerful reserves for their defence, but they have not a single forward with any special pretensions to First League form, and consequently they selected Colin Veitch and McWilliams, two half-backs, to understudy Appleyard and Orr in the forward line.  It was a wise decision under the circumstances, and if McWilliam was not an ideal partner to Templeton, Colin Veitch signalized his first appearance for the “Magpies” this season by scoring a couple of goals, the all-important factors in deciding the issue in favour of Tyeside.   Everton. too, were similarly handicapped in being robbed of the services of two of their best men. Sharp and Abbott, whose positions were taken by Rankin and Chadwick. Newcastle United quickly settled down into their paces, and cleverly outplayed their guests in scientific footwork, the forwards and half-backs joining together in the execution several magnificent movements, which yielded three corners in quick succession, and from one of these Howie sent the ball only few inches wide of the uprights. Rankin and McDermott next furnished Young with a nice opening at close does range, and the visiting centre suffered rather hard lines with a swift low volley that grazed the foot of the upright. Though the Novocastrians always played the leading business by their superior pace on the extreme wings, Everton were the first to get nearest to a score. A masterly effort by Rankin led to Hardman testing Watts with a lightning shot, and Watts only partially clearing, the visitors nearly rushed the ball through before Watts could return between the sticks. After this narrow escape (due, I should add, to the heavy tackling of McCombie and Carr, who bowled over several opponents in the goal-mouth) the home forwards speedily transferred the venue of operations to the Everton lines, where Rutherford drew out in possession on the touch-line, from whence he dropped the ball into the goal-mouth, utterly deceiving Scott by its peculiar flight. Owing to the cross wind the ball hit the upright and rebounded into the net—a beautiful goal thus rewarding the Tynesiders for their large monopoly of the play at the end of twenty-three minutes. Five minutes later Colin Veitch smartly headed through a rocket-like centre from Templeton, and in the last quarter of an hour Everton fought with grim determination to get on level terms. A faulty clearance with the head by McCracken let in McDermott, who volleyed the ball into the net before the home custodian could really understand what had happened, and it seemed Lombard-street to a China orange upon another goal materializing when Young ran within the penalty area to an open goal. Watts, however, evoked the wildest enthusiasm when he dashed out and charged Young down before he could shoot. Newcastle United opened the second half tamely, and palpably under-estimated the abilities of their adversaries to wipe off the arrears of a single goal. The home backs were successful in keeping their opponents at bar, however, until four minutes from the close, when there was most sensational development. Settle stole round McCracken to send a cross from Taylor like a flash past Watts, and another minute saw the United snatch the verdict out the fire with a marvelous goal from the foot of Veitch. Newcastle United could not under any circumstances claim a victory over Everton any striking superiority in form. They certainly held the balance of power before the interval, but after wards Everton far surpassed them by their artistic manipulation of the ball, and were full value for one of the points at issue. Veitch operated successfully at centre forward, but was feebly supported by McWilliam and Howie. Rutherford revealed sterling form, and Templeton occasionally was conspicuous for his touch line dashes when properly supported by McWilliam. Neither Aitken nor Gardner was at his best, and it was fortunate for the United that McCombie, McCracken, and Watts were in such great form.  Hardman, Rankin, and Young were the most prominent of a dashing and resourceful forward line that was admirably fed by the halves, of whom Taylor was especially noteworthy for soundly tackling Templeton as well as opening out the game for his forwards. Balmer, Crelly, and Scott each rendered yeoman service to his side, the backs kicking with considerable judgment throughout a severe game. Newcastle United;- Watts; McCracken, and McCombie; Gardner, Aitken, and Carr; Rutherford, Howie, Veitch, McWilliam, and Templeton.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, and Crelley; Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman.  Referee; D. Hammond, Heywood. 

EVERTON IN RARE FORM
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 19 September 1904
Everton, whom North End oppose at Goodison Park next week, were admittedly unfortunate in losing at Newcastle by the odd goal out of five. The Tynesiders were minus Appleyard and Orr, but the Toffee men were even worse hit, for Booth, the captain, Abbott and Sharp were all absent. Nevertheless, The Everton team fought well to the end. Their defence was fairly stromng, but if Booth and Abbott are fit next Saturday, it will be infinitely stronger. The Everton outside wingers were fast and proved difficult to hold. McDermott and Settle were the scores of Everton's goals, and though the latter is not always prominent in the open, he has a rare eye and a ready foot for any chance near goal. In their last two League matches, Everton have been beaten in the last minute or two.

Ex Everton Player Eddie Hughes played for Everton between 1898-99

NEWCASTLE UNITED 3 EVERTON 2
September 19, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
In order to fulfil their engagement with the Tyneside club the Everton team made the journey North on Friday, and spent the night at Harrogate, entraining for Newcastle in good time on Saturday. Unfortunately for the prospects of the visitors the side ha, owning to injuries, to take the field without the services of such clever exponents as Sharp, Booth, and Abbott. There would be quite 25,000 spectators on the enclosure when the sides took the field as follows: - Newcastle United: - Watts, goal, McCracken and McCombie, backs, Gardner, Aitkens, and Carr, half-backs, Rutherford, Howie, Veitch (captain), McWilliams, and Templeton forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer (captain), and Crelly, backs Taylor, Chadwick and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. Referee H.Ward. Balmer lost the toss, and Young opened play against a fair breeze. The home left at once raced down, and Crelly had to kick back to Scott to prevent Veitch finding a likely opening. Some capital play then followed, in which Settle and Hardman took part, but unfortunately the Everton inside left over ran the ball when within a few yards of goal. A pretty piece of combined play by Aitken, Howie and Rurtherford ended in Taylor kicking over his own line. The resulting corner kick was well placed, and Howie, with a terrific just shaved the upright. Everton now had a turn at the attack, and a fine cross shot from Rankin troubled Gardner, who cleared after a tussle with Hardman. The Everton forwards came again, and Settle found an opening. Young, however, shot against the side of the net. Another fine centre from Rankin harassed Watts and his backs when a powerful kick by Aitken transferred the play to midfield. By steady stages the Tynesiders got within range of Scott, but both Balmer and Crelly attended well to their work, and repeatedly kept them out. Another severe pressure followed, and McWilliams, with a long shot, called out Scotts best work. Further pressure ended in two shots from Veitch and McWilliams in close succession and within six yards of goal the keeper somewhat luckily warding off both efforts. Two district chances fell to Everton, once when Watts was out of his goal, and again after a fine cross-shot by Rankin, but the inside men failed and Hardman made a poor attempt to cover. The United forwards then broke away, and after several smart touches Rutherford put in a high shot from the wing, which struck the inside of the upright, and quite defeated Scott, This success had scarcely been obtained when the home forwards again got under way, Taylor, however, checked their onward course and putting well ahead Young supplemented, only to find Aitkens in attendances. Templeton drew Balmer and Taylor round him and passed to Carr, who gave the ball to Veitch. The latter was in a fine position, and with a swift low shot drove into the net. The Everton forwards, the most, effective coming from Rankin, who several times got the better of McCombie, and put in a rasping centre. The breeze militated against accurate shooting, but one of Rankin's efforts met with success, as after a spirited run down the ball was sent across to Hardman, who, with a raising shot, completely defeated Watts. This infused more sting into the visitors methods and for a few minutes play hovered round the home goal. A sharp attack was levelled at the other end, when from a free kick, Young got clear away, and had only the keeper to beat. He, however, held on too long, and Watts fell at his feet, and this prevented an otherwise an otherwise certain goal. Half-time Newcastle United 2, Everton one. Immediately on resuming Rutherford and Howie raced along the wing, and the Everton goal was threatened with a capital cross shot from the winger. Balmer came to the rescue, and smart passing by Young Settle, and McDermott followed this up, but, as before, the United defenders offered a most stubborn resistance. Returning again Hardman drew out cheers from the crowd as the result of some very clever mancenrving, which culminated in a brilliant shot at goal. The ball was about to sail in at the corner of the net when Watts got to it, and conceded a corner. This was worked clear, but again the Evertonians with the strong wind behind them pressed severely, and were somewhat unlucky in not drawing level. Taylor was just now putting in some capital work in the tackling line, and it was mainly due to his efforts that the Everton forwards enjoyed the greater share of the play. At length Settle equalised for Everton, but shortly afterwards Veitch gained another goal for Newcastle. The game was most exciting in the closing stages, the equalising and winning goals being scored in the last five minutes. Newcastle United 3. Everton 2.

Archie Goodall a Pre Football League Ex Everton Player

EVERTON RESERVES 1 SOUTHPORT CENTRAL 1
September 19, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 3)
At Goodison park, before 5,000 spectators. The Central played well during the first half, Dawson scoring for them in ten minutes, while afterwards Dent had a bust time in goal. Everton pressed forward towards the interval and McAdams equalised. In the second half play was much more in favour towards Everton, who attacked with vigour, but found Platt in splendid form. Everton: - Dent, goal, Wildman and R.Balmer, backs, Hanlin, Muir, and Hutchinson half-back Tuft, Sheridan, McAdams, Caldwell, and Dilly forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 19,1904. The Liverpool Mercury
St. Jame's Park, Newcastle has never proved a happy hunting ground for Everton. Previous to Saturday they had on six occasions played a League match there without the satisfaction of a solitary victory. As a matter of fact, only twice have they succeeded in dividing the points. Consequently it was but in accordance with the fitness of things that the outcome of Evertoin's latest visit North was the loss of a couple of points. Even apart from past experienced-and it is curious even in football, how much environment affects certain teams-there were consideration which were scarcely suggestive of victory for the winning side. As has been pointed out, Everton's weak spot this season is undoubtedly centred in the half-back line. The defection of Wolstenholme meant a great deal to the team for it broke up admittedly the cleverness half back division possessed by any club in the League. The absence of an efficient substitute for such a pastmaster in right half-back play was bad enough in itself, and it only needed injuries which can hardly be obviated to reduce the Everton first line of defence to a position bordering upon ineptitude especially when compared with the wonderfully effective work of last season's remarkable trio, Wolstenholme, Booth, and Abbott.
In the game with Newcastle United, Taylor, Chadwick, and Makepeace filled the places to which reference has been made. No one for a moment would dream of suggesting that either of these players did anything but place their best talents at the disposal of the club. Taylor times without number has proved what a wholehearted enthusiast he is when on the field. He has won his spurs, and as for Chadwick and Makepeace, they had the stimulus, which buoys up the youthful aspirant to the highest honours of the football field. As a line they may be said to have creditably understudied more experienced and brilliant half-backs. It would not be fair to attribute Everton's defeat to any pronounced lack of ability on their play. At the same time, even a team like Everton cannot expect to make such a brave display when sat artists like Booth and Abbott are on the shelf owing to injuries. Chadwick improved upon his exhibition at Goodison Park against Sheffield United. He has many neat touches, and there is a certain degree of promise about his method which experience might bring to fruition. Makepeace was set a rather difficult task seeing that he was brought face to face with Rutherford, who was probably the most dangerous of the Newcastle forwards. While he did not some conspicuously, he certainly proved of considerable service to his side. Taylor, as ever, was a thoroughly worker, and it was largely owing to the close attentions that Templeton, the erst while Aston Villa winger and Scotch international, was for the most part quite out of the picture. The game considering the excessive heart, was contested throughout at a remarkable pace, although during the latter stages both sides gave evidence of fatigue. While Newcastle in the end claimed the minimum points, it is still a moot question as to whether they really deserved their win. Admittedly in the first half during which they scored twice to Everton once they were the superior side, and displaying the better football were at least a goal ahead of their opponents. After crossing over the advantage rested with the Evertonians, who had even more of the game than the United could claim in the opening portion, and considering their number and the accuracy of the centre which came from Rankin and Hardman, a perfect harvest of goals might have accrued had Young been in one of his happiest moods. As it was, while he never shirked work he somehow or another never seemed to get in the proper groove with the result that the loss of a second or two means all the difference between success and failure. It was a smart bit of judgement on the part of Settle, which led to Everton's equalising goal. He cleverly outwitted the Newcastle backs, and astonished them not a little by his deftness in diverting into the net a ball which McCracken and McCombie both imagined was going out of play. At this period everything pointed to a division of honours, and with a little more generalship and strengthening of the defence at the crucial moments Veitch's all-important goal might have been averted. Rankin proved an admirable substitute for Sharp, and was one of the most prominent men on the field. His fine turn of speed was of invaluable service to his side, particularly when one bears in mind the successful manner in which, he frequently centred the ball. Hardman too, gave another delightful exhibition. Although of slight build the Everton amateur is as plucky and fearless a forward as any engaged in First League football to day. His experience with McCracken was not always pleasant. but the invariably came up similing, and on one occasion after being somewhat severely dealt with, he surprised the Irish International by a quick recovery and a brilliant centre. Settle and McDermott rendered useful assistance to the outside men; while Scott was well protected by Balmer and Crelly, who were as usual reliable. Newcastle United gave one the impression that other teams besides Everton will fare badly at St.Jame's Park. The two Macs are a powerful pair of backs, and although the halves were scarcely as effective as the home supporters desired the forwards were always alive to any chance of scoring which came their way.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 19 September 1904
Everton were never nearer breaking their record at Newcastle than on Saturday. It is curious to note that during the six years which the United have enjoyed in the First League the Evertonians have never succeeded in beating them at St. James’s Park. At one period of the game on Saturday they looked almost certain of establishing themselves as victors, but luck was against them, and the home eleven snatched a winning goal just before the whistle finally sounded. Reviewing the game with strict impartiality -an attitude which we hope, we have always maintained -a draw would probably have best reflected the result, the game throughout was a very fast and exciting one, and the 25,000 spectators present were treated to an exceedingly good exposition of the Association code. In the first half the home team were distinctly the stronger lot. The forwards were smarter on the ball, and the backs showed a confidence and coolness that was always equal to the rather erratic rushes of the Everton quintet.
On changing ends, however, a remarkable transformation was witnessed. The visitors took up the attack with splendid energy, and they quite wore their opponents down. Under the sustained pressure both McCracken and McCombie became flurried, and when Settle four minutes from time scored an equalising goal it looked certain that honours would be divided. Fortune, however, was on the side of the St. James’s Park, for from the restart they raced down, and Veitch scored the winning goal amid a scene of indescribable enthusiasm. It must not be forgotten that Everton were handicapped by the absence of Sharp, Booth, and Abbott, but at the same time it is only fair to those who deputised for them to say that they gave a thoroughly excellent account of themselves. Rankin may not perhaps have the wonderful turn of speed that Sharp possesses, but nevertheless he is an admirable right winger, and his performance on Saturday was notably smart. His centre were splendid and had only a few of these been taken advantage of the balance of goals would undoubtedly be in favour of the visiting team. At the opposite wing Hardman played a lion-hearted game. He may be little, but there is no limited to his pluck, and it was at times distinctly amusing to notice the way in which he charged the lengthy and long-limbed McCracken. Both the inside men showed clever football, but Young was once again disappointing in the centre position. Jack Taylor the old warhorse, was as bustling as ever, and Chadwick and Makepeace both created highly favourable impressions by the sturdy way in which they stood up to the Newcastle attack. Balmer was the better of the backs though Crelly was really found lacking, and Scott could not be blamed for the three shots that beat him. Altogether the form of the Evertonians was distinctly good, and as already suggested they were undoubtedly unlucky in not returning to Liverpool with at least one point to their credit. Of the United team it is only necessary to say that they are a very formidable lot on their own ground. The forward line is both clever and speedy, and the backs are wonderfully safe. The half-way line might on Saturday’s form be improved but apart from this weakness the eleven is distinctly one of be reckoned with.

NEWCASTLE v  EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 19 September 1904
At Newcastle before 24,000 spectators. Everton kicked off with a strong wind behind them, and after some fast open play in midfield Rutherford cleverly forced a corner off Crelly. The flag kick resulted in an exciting bully in the goalmouth, and though Balmer and Crelly, with some powerful work, relieved their lines, the home forwards returned to the attack and were awarded two corners. Again the United attacked, and Rutehrford scored in twenty-two minutes. The visitors responded with some dashing work, the forwards manoeuvring the ball right within the penalty line, where Watts was drawn out with a splendid shot by Rankin, and Carr, falling back in goal, kicked out a hard shot from Settle. Veitch headed through a second goal. Following a dashing effort, Hardman scored for Everton. Half-time score; Newcastle United 2 goals, Everton 1 goal.
Upon changing ends the home forwards at once rushed down the field, and a long dropping shot by Rutherford nearly deceived Scott. The game opened out in favour of the visitors, who were faster on the ball. In the last four minutes Settle equalised, and in a tremendous finish Veitch captured the winning goal.
Result; Newcastle United 3 goals, Everton 2 goals.

NEWCASTLE UNITED v  EVERTON
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 19 September 1904
At Newcastle before 20,000 spectators. The home team were minus Appleyard and Carr, having McWilliams and Veitch substitutes, Everton had Chadwick vice Booth at centre half, and Makepeace played for Abbott. On the whole, Newcastle had the better of the first half, though Everton were often dangerous for brief periods. After 25 minutes Rutherford and Howie scored in quick succession, and then Hardman got through for Everton. Half-time -Newcastle 2 Everton 1.
The home side did not show up so well in the leading part of the second half, and Everton pressed hard, but could not score. Newcastle were kept on the defensive, but towards the close showed some improvement, and Scott had to deal with several shots. The closing stages were hard fought, and Settle equalised, but before the finish Veitch scored again with a magnificent effort. Result; Newcastle United 3 Everton 2
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Chadwick and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Newcastle United.- Watts, goal; McCracken and McCombie, backs; Gardner, Aitken (captain), and Carr, half-backs; Rutherford, Howie, Veitch, McWilliams, and Templeton, forwards. Referee H. Ward.

EVERTON v  SOUTHPORT CENTRAL
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 19 September 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION DIVISION A 
At Goodison Park, before 5,000 spectators. McAdam kicked off for Everton against the sun. Dawson opened the score for the Central ten minutes from the start. Everton made desperate efforts to equalise, and before the interval McAdam, from a centre by Dilly, made the score level. Resuming, the visitors pressed throughout and Dent gave a fine exhibition of goalkeeping. Result- One goal each.

NEWCASTLE UNITED v  EVERTON
Newcastle Daily Chronicle - Monday 19 September 1904
HOME TEAM WIN JUST ON TIME
It was a peculiar game that was decided at St. James’s Park, Newcastle, on Saturday, when Everton opposed Newcastle United for League points. It would have been almost impossible to have had a better day for football, for the weather was bright  with just sufficient breeze to temper the sun’s rays. The attendance was a good one, there being over 21,000 people present. Because of injuries, there were changes in both teams, Veitch and McWilliam taking the places of Appleyard and Orr at centre forward and inside left respectively; whilst the Everton team included Chadwick at centre half vice Booth. The game opened in bright fashion, for Rutherford immediately tested the “Toffees” defence, Scott saving well. Although the ground was cleared, the Novocastrians continued to have the bulk of the play, and how they failed to score on at least two occasions was a mystery. Howie, Veitch, and Gardner, and then Veitch, McWilliams, and Templeton led attacks on the Everton goal, and that no score came was not due to the excellent of the defence, but rather to Newcastle falling to accept openings which were made. Once McCracken proved his worth when Hardman had a clear run in for goal, the Newcastle back just heading out at the crucial moment. At the lower end an exciting incident occurred when Watts ran out a yard or two to save after a run down by Rankin and McDermott. In attempting to fist away he fell, and Settle, in his eagerness to get at the ball, fell over Watts, and sat on him. First Carr and then McCombie starved off attacks by Hardman and Young. Eventually Gardner made an opening for Rutherford who, with a long lightning shot, sent the ball into the net at the top corner for the first goal. It was quickly followed by a second, for, following a brief visit to the low end by Rankin and McDermott, Templeton received from Carr and centred Veitch was lying well up, and with a sharp turn of the head he sent the ball into the net for Newcastle’s second goal. But soon after this second success the home players received a check, for Rankin, who was always a source of danger, sprinted down and eluded Carr and McCombie. He then centred, and McCracken cleverly headed out only to send the ball to the feet of Hardman, who at ten yards range beat Watts with a hot shot. This the sides crossed over, the lead by Newcastle being deserved. The pace had been warm throughout, and whilst Everton adopted rushing tactics, but not without some good combination, the Novocastrians indulged in that short passing play which is so pretty and for which they are noted.
In the second half, however, the game was much teamer, for the wind, which had been very slight increased, and aided the Everton men considerably. Seldom did the Newcastle United players break away, and even when they did succeeded in crossing the half-way line their efforts were very poor. It was really a case of Everton v Newcastle defence; and to its credit he it said that the home defence was admirable. Watts, McCracken, and McCombie, and the halves worked hard to keep the Everton forwards out, chief attention being paid to Rankin and Settle. Two or three corners were conceded by Watts and when eventually Newcastle did get into better form Templeton forced a corner, from which Veitch almost headed through; whilst later the same player was tripped just outside the penalty line. McCracken took the kick but sent wide, and later, when Templeton took a free kick, he failed. At last, and just within a few minutes of time, Rankin raced off up the wing and centred beautifully. Settle ran in, and meeting the ball tipped it past Watts for the equaliser. Naturally, the home men seemed disappointed; but pulling themselves together, they made straight down, and Rutherford centred. A scrimmage ensued in the goalmouth, during which time the crowd was on tenter hooks, but eventually Veitch whipped the ball into the net with but a minute to go. There was a mighty cheer; whilst the successful marksman was congratulated by his colleagues. Just as the whistle blew McWilliam brough Scott to his knees, and the game then ended -a game which started well, and finished amidst great excitement but the middle of which was exceedingly tame.
Final; Newcastle United 3 goals, Everton 2 goals.

THE OFFICIAL COLLAPSED.
Scottish Referee - Monday 19 September 1904
A rather good story is told of the late N. J. Ross, the erstwhile brilliant Everton footballer. On ono occasion an Everton official was explaining to Ross, by means of eleven corks placed on a table, how the game ought to be played, and by following out his scheme how easy it was to score goals. Fancy the delightful impertinence of anyone trying to teach Ross the fine arts of football! Ross quietly looked on at the movements of the corks as if it were a game of draughts. and did not utter a word until the last touch. "There," said the official, "see how easy it is to get a goal on my system." " Yes," replied Ross, " but where the deuce is the other team?" The official collapsed.—Sent by H. C, Glasgow.

UNFORTUNATE EVERTON
September 20, 1904. The Lancashire Evening Post
Everton have started the League tourney badly by losing their first three matches –two away, one at home –to teams of which only Newcastle United can be said to be above an average. Apart from any natural inferiority of the Toffees to their rivals. Their failure, says “Tom Tiddler,” is due to the suspension of Secretary Cuff and Trainer Elliott during the off-season for “poaching.” Horace Wright is the acting scribe pro tem, and Toman is the provisional trainer until October 1 st ; but, as may be easily imagined, these changes paralyzed the attempts to get new blood, with the result that the stables contain far too large a proportion of “old crocks,” while the absence of the regular trainer has not allowed even the “old crocks” to be patched up, for work again. In other words Everton are deplorably short of being “fit” and by the time they have got into trim they may have lost their chance.

L.R. ROOSE AND EVERTON
London Daily News - Tuesday 20 September 1904
Rumours has lately been busy with the name of L.R. Roose, the Stoke and Welsh international goalkeeper. Roose is resting at present, but it has been stated that he will probably be found in the rans of a Southern League club before the season is much older. Roose informed a "Daily News" representative yesterday that he had no intention whatever of playing for any Southern League club. In fact he is thinking seriously of retiring from football altogether. \if he does play it will be for a First League club. We should not be surprised to find the ex-Stoke amateur becoming a member of the Everton team.

S.B. ASHWORTH
Nottingham Evening Post - Thursday 22 September 1904
It is stated on good authority that there is every probability of S. B. Ashworth, the ex-Stoke amateur, who played for Manchester City last season, turning out for Everton in the near future. Business connections will take him to Liverpool a good deal during the winter months.

ALL SORTS OF SPORTS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 22 September 1904
The Preston North End directors have an unenviable task in the selection of the team to meet Everton on Saturday. Jack Bell the captain, has recovered from the injury he received in the Sunderland match, but Bond, who deputised him at outside right, has played so well that eh can hardly be left out. Possibly the directors may decide to play Bell at outside left, or they may even refuse to disturb the team that did so well against Derby.
There is every probability that S.B. Ashworth, the ex-Stoke amateur, who did Manchester City such good service last year at left half, will not be seen again in the familiar blue shirt. Business will take him a good deal to Liverpool during the winter, and it is rumoured that he may turn out for the Goodison Park club. If this should turn out to be correct, Manchester City’s loss will undoubtedly be Everton’s gain.

“SPRING-HEEL JACK.”
Northern Daily Telegraph - Thursday 22 September 1904
The district of Everton, in Liverpool, is scared by the singular antics of ghost, whom the name of ’’ Spring-Heel Jack has been given, because of the facility with which he has escaped, by huge springe, all attempts of his would-be captors to arrest him. William Henry-street is the scene of his exploits, and crowds of people assemble nightly see them, bat only few have done so yet. He is said to pay particular attention to ladies.

HOSPITAL SATURDAY FUND
Liverpool Mercury - Thursday 22 September 1904
The honorary treasurer and committee of the Hospital Saturday Fund have tendered their sincere thanks to the directors of the Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs for their kindness in permitting proceeds of the practice matches to be devoted to the support of the medical charities. The results are- Liverpool (two matches), £115 5s, 2d.; Everton (one half of £123 15s 6d.), £61 17s 9d; total, £177 2s 11d. the above shows the wisdom of the new departures made by the Football Association in allowing a small charge for admission to be made at these matches. Last year the total amount collected was £49 0s 11d., against £239 0s 8d. received this year.

S.R. ASHWORTH THROWS IN HIS LOT WITH EVERTON
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Friday 23 September 1904
Owing to business reasons "Sam" Ashworth, the poular amateur left half back, who assisted Manchester City to win the English Cup last season, has severed his connection with the Hyde-road club. He has applied for his transfer, at the same time intimating that he is desirious of playing for Everton. The Goodison Park club are of course, only two pleased to secure the services of such a capable player. It will be remembered that he transfered his allegiance from Stoke to the City at the end of the season 1903. Last year, when not engaged with mancunians he occasionally turned out for Reading. That his departures will be distinct loss to the Cup-holders cannot be denied.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Friday 23 September 1904
S.B. ASshworth the well known amateur half-back, who has assisted Stoke and Manchester City among other clubs, has, it in stated, joined Everton.

S.B. ASHWORTH TO PLAY FOR EVERTON
September 23, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
For some time past, S.B.Ashworth, Stoke amateur, who helped Manchester City win the English Cup, has been connected with the club, and he has transfer intimating that it wants to play for Everton

EVERTON’S CAPTURE
Liverpool Echo - Friday 23 September 1904
ASHWORTH SIGNS ON TO-DAY
S.B. Ashworth the well-known amateur half-back of Manchester City has this morning been signed on by the Everton Football Club.
Preston directors difficulty
Though they met to-day for the purpose of selecting the team the North End directors were unable to decide who should fill the outside right position against Everton to-morrow. Jack Bell, the Preston captain, has recovered from the injury to his foot sustained in the Sunderland match, but Bond has shown capital form as his deputy. Both players will travel to Everton, and the final choice will be made on the ground to-morrow. The team is;- McBride, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Hunter, and Lyon, half-backs; Bond, or Bell, Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Bourne, forwards.
Team arrangements
Everton v Preston North End
League match at Goodison Park; kick-off 3,30
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Preston North End Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Preston; Exchange Station 1.30; Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Clayton, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Hanlin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

NORTH END AT GODOISON PARK
Lancashire Evening Post - Friday 23 September 1904
Everton are exceedingly keen on checking the success of the Prestonians, not because of any feeling against the North End team, but because of the special merit attaching to a defeat of the leaders. The Preston players are just as keen on their part to retain an unbeaten certificate and it is probable that the fight will be remarkably keen. Everton, of course, have an advantage in playing at home, familiarity with the ground and the encouragement afforded by thousands of spectators being of some account in weighting up the chance. North End, however, should not lack supporters, for special railway facilities are being provided, and though smaller numerically than the Everton followers, the well-wishers of Preston are not likely to be found wanting in enthusiasm. I have a communication from Mr. W.C. Cuff, the Everton secretary, informing me that, though Abbott and Sharp will still be absent. Booth is to reappear. Makepeace, Abbott’s understudy, is reputed to be a smart half-back, and Rankin, who plays in place of Sharp, is clever and very speedy and has played in an England International trial match. Scott, the Irish international is in goal, and at inside left we shall see the ex-Blackpool player, Hardman. Unquestionably North End have to face a real good team.
THE OUTSIDE RIGHT POSITION
In choosing the eleven to encounter the Evertonians, the North End directors, meeting this morning, were faced by the fact that Bell, absent from the games with Woolwich and Derby through injury, had reported himself sound again. The position was complicated by the excellent exhibition given last week by Bond, acting as Bell’s deputy. In these circumstances the directors have deferred the final selection of outside right until just before the match. Bond was really due a further chance on the strength of last week’s play, but, on the other hand, Bell’s experience would probably be valuable to-morrow in such nan important game. In addition to this, he is an old Everton player himself, and consequently knows something of the strengths and weaknesses of his former colleagues. Also, he would be wonderfully keen to shine against his old club. Both players will be on the ground. Mr. John Lewis is the referee.

S. B. ASHWORTH GOES TO EVERTON
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Saturday 24 September 1904
For business reasons, S. B. Ashworth, the wellknown amateur left half-back, of .Manchester City, has severed his connection with the Hyde Road club. He has applied for his transfer, at the same time intimating that he desirous of playing for Everton. The Goodison Park club, are, of course, only too pleased to secure, the services of such a. capable player. Ashworth is by profession an architect. ]t will remembered that he transferred his allegiance from Stoke to the City at the end of the season 1903.

STALYBRIDGE ROVERS.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 24 September 1904
Boardman the ex-Everton player, is not expected to play again for the Rovers, he having signified his intention of retiring from the game.

NORTH END RES V. EVERTON RES.
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 24 September 1904
The second home match of North End Reserve saw the team once more altered in its constitution, this being in consquence of trials given to Rodgers, of Newcastle, and Knibbs, from Burton-on-Trent district. Tod also appeared at right half and at the other end a ppalce was given to a local player named Butterworth. The visitors brought a fairly strong eleven, including Dilly, an Irish international. teams; North End; Taylor, goal; Warner and Orrell, backs; Tod, Rowe, and Butterworth, half-backs; Rodgers, Wilcox, McKie, Carterall and Knibbs, forwards. Everton Reserve; Dent, goal; Wildman and Balmer, backs; Clifton, Chadwick and Hutchinson, half-backs; Hanlon, Sheridan, Adams, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards. Referee; Mr. C.H. Turner. The visitors kicked off before about 4,000 spectators, and the first serious attempt came from Dilly, whose shot was stopped by Orrell, while a later one by the same player was intercepted by warner. Then the ball was worked up the right by Rodgers, and a dangerous atatck ensued on the Everton goal. Catterall sent over the bar. Dent saved a swift, low shot from Rowe, and later Wilcox sent in a teaser which the custodian in falling just saved on the line, and although McKie rushed up the ball was got away. In a temporary visit to the other end, Taylor had to save from Dilly, while an attempt from the Everton right went wide. North End maintained a hot pressure and were admirably fed. Dent saved on inmunerable occasions, and once when danger threatened Balmer gave a strong clearance. A free kick just outside the penalty area was awarded, North End, but Wilcox shot over the bar, and following this Dent, who was playing capitally in goal, was injured. on play being resumed the visitors began to exert pressure, and Dilly, who was the most prominent player among the forward line, forced Taylor to give a corner, which, however, was of no avail. Play opened out more, and both ends were visited alternateltys. Five minutes from he interval Rowe nicely dribbled up and gave to Wilcox, who entirely defeated Wildman, and found the net. Following a corner fell to North End, but was placed behind by Knibbs. Succeeding play was in favour of the homesters. half-time; North End Res 1, Everton Res 0.
On the restart Everton had the advantage of a slight breeze. North End were the first to atatck, good work being done by Butterworth and Knibbs, Hutchinson sent in a long shot which Taylor threw away, and from a succeeding corner the North End goal was saved. The visitors were anxious to change the state of the score, and put more effort into their work in the opening stages. Taylor was found safe on several occasions, and another shot from Hutchinson went over the bar. Butterworth was applauded for smart play, and in him Sheridan and Hanlon for smart play, and in him Sheridan and Hanlon found a formidable opponent. Criticism and Rogers for not passing to his colleagues and turned into applause, when it was seen that he outplayed nearly half of the opposing side, but his shot at goal was weak. North End once more applied pressure, and several threatening atatcks were made, Dent admirably saving from Wilcox when close in front of goal, and although the North Ender headed in a swift return, it was cleared. Following this Tod hit the bar, and Rogers also tried a shot at shot. On play going to the other end Hanlon sent in a beautiful shot from near the corner flag, but this Taylor neatly caught and on play being one more transfered Knibbs was prominent and a hot melee ensued near the Everton goal. Dent, however, played a fine game and saved his saved his side on several occasions Wilcox made a splendid run, outpacing his opponents, but the custodian was again safe. Other shots from Rodgers and Tod went wide, and on play once more travelling to the Preston half Sheridan had a splendid opportunity of equalising had a splendid opportunity of equalising, but the shot was miserably wide. In their efforts to equalise the visitors changed their forward line, Dilly going centrre, and in the later stages of the game the Everton men applied pressure, and Taylor saved on two occasions are smartly fisting out from a corner kick taken by Adams. In the last few minutes of the game the North End forwards rushed up the field, and Carterall scored a second goal. Result; North End Res 2, Everton Res 0.

ASHWORTH SIGNS FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 24 September 1904
S.B Ashworth the well-known amateur half back of Manchester City, was yesterday morning signed on by the Everton Club.
Team arrangements
Everton v Preston North End
League match at Goodison Park; kick-off 3,30
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Preston North End Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Preston; Exchange Station 1.30; Kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Clayton, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Hanlin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards.

OUTDOOR SPORTS
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 24 September 1904
Everton have a most attractive fixture to decide this afternoon at Goodison Park, their opponents being Preston North End. Three years have elapsed since the latter played a First Division League game in Liverpool, since which time they have experienced many vicissitudes of fortune. Their promotion from the Second into the premier League does not appear to have lessened their efficiency, and they meet Everton with an untarnished record out of four games played. As two of these have been decided away from home, there is some excuse for them feeling fairly confident concerning the issue to day, though locally there are justifiable expectations that Everton will put the first check on the conquering carcer of the North Enders. Fortunately Booth is able to resume in his accustomed position at centre half, and this means much in estimating the efficiency of the intermediate line. Makepeace will fill the place usually occupied by Abbott, whilst Rankin will substitute Sharp, who is still unfit for active warfare. North End will have to fight hard to avert defeat, and if Everton display their customary form they should inflict a fairly decisive reverse on their visitors. But a team that can trounce Aston Villa and Sunderland will require reckoning with, and Preston will certainly go all the way. This style of play is apt to upset more sedate methods, and it will behove the Everton players to adapt themselves to the prevailing conditions.
Everton v Preston North End…. J. Lewis, J.A Kay and T. Lomax.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and HP Hardman, forwards.
Everton Combination v Preston North End Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Preston;
Everton.- Kitchen, goal; Wildman and R. Balmer, backs; Clayton, Chadwick, and Hutchinson, half-backs; Hanlin, Sheridan, McAdam, Caldwell, and Dilly, forwards

EVERTON v  NORTH END
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 24 September 1904
FIRST DEFEAT OF THE SEASON
By “Perseus.”
The game at Goodison Park this afternoon promised to prove the hardest task North End have had to face since their reappearance in the select circle. Four points gained in as many games might not suggest that Everton are particularly formidable, but their record improves on close acquaintance. Three of the four matches were played away, and of this trio one was won, while the other two-against the Villa and Newcastle United -were only lost by unexpected goals in the last minute or two of play. On the occasion of their one previous appearance at home Everton were much too good for Sheffield United, and consequently the North Enders had every reason to expect a severe struggle. The rivalry between the clubs is of old standing, for Everton were runners-up to North End in the second season of the League’s existence, while on the third they ousted the Prestonians by securing the championship themselves. In all, 26 League matches have been fought by the clubs, and the fact that prior to this afternoon each could claim the same number of victories intensified the desire for success to-day. The North End directors chose twelve players, from whom to make the final selection, the outside right position lying between Bond who played so well last week, and Bell, who reported himself recovered from the injury to his foot, sustained in the encounter with Sunderland. Leaving Preston about one o’clock, the North Enders were on the ground over an hour before starting time, and there Bell, who lives at Liverpool, joined his comrades. As he felt quite sound, he was included.
Everton had a capital side, Booth reappearing at centre half. Sharp and Abbott, it is true, were absent, but in Rankin and Makepeace there were substitutes who have proved themselves most efficient footballers. The gates were opened about 2.30, and the turnstiles at once began to click merrily. In a short time thousands of spectators had taken up their position, and the crowd increased rapidly. The attendance was estimated at over 25,000 when the team appeared, and the warm reception accorded the North Enders suggested that a large number of Preston supporters had taken advantage of the cheap bookings. The weather was bright. Teams;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
North End.- McBride, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Hunter and Lyon, half-backs; Bell (Jack)(captain), Smith, Brown, Wilson and Bourne, forwards.
Referee; Mr. J. Lewis, Blackburn.

Bell won the toss, and North End played with the breeze behind them and the sun in their faces. The Prestonians made the first movement of note, and some neat passing brought a centre from Bourne. This was placed outside, but a few minutes later the left winger lifted the ball across again. Wilson, however, could not get sufficient force behind the ball, being rather awkwardly placed, and his effort also lacked direction. A swift dash by Settle and Hardman showed the ex-Blackpool player’s speed in a favourable light, but the attack was quickly repulsed, and North End received a corner, which Bourne placed excellent and Smith weighted in with a clean header, which went perilously close. Settle and Hardman again co-operated in a smart run, and Rankin also put in a sprint, but the Preston defence prevailed, and Smith sent along a well-judged pass out to Bell, who might have become very dangerous indeed had Crelly not been his superior in print of speed. There was a shout of disappointment as Booth drove wide from a centre by Hardman. The game was fairly even, play going rapidly from goal to goal. Balmer was glad to put the ball back to Scott in order to spoil Bourne, and at the other end Rodway dashed across and tackled Hardman just when the latter was going to shoot at close range., Gradually the Everton players secured a small advantage, but the Preston men took to their work finely, and sound play by Hunter and Lyon started the left wing. Wilson passed neatly in small space, and from Bourne’s centre there was a volley in the goal mouth, culminating in a free kick against North End. Some clever passing by the home halves and forwards brought peril to McBride’s charge, and once the Preston goalkeeper ran some distance towards the corner flag to deprive Rankin of an opportunity of shooting. The Everton right wing was again to the fore, and the North End defenders had a warm time. After a short stoppage owing to an injury to Smith, who quickly resumed. McDermott failed to shoot accurately, but the Toffies were having much the larger share of the game. Settle passed beautifully to Rankin, who rather weakly struck the side of the net. A breakaway by North End enabled Crelly to foil Bell by kicking into touch. Everton resumed the attack. In midfield they were very clever, and opening were made in capital style, but the shooting was distinctly poor. After nearly half-an-hour’s play however, the home team met with success. A centre from Hardman cannoned off one of the defenders to Young. The last named passed to McDermott, who gave McBride no chance with an oblique shot, which went into the net at a rare pace. Thus Everton secured the first goal obtained against North End since the Sunderland match. The play immediately following favoured the Preston team, and Bell made a dashing yet unsuccessful effort to convert a free kick. Then the Toffies took up the pressure again, and the Preston halves, though playing a hard game, were badly put to it. Lyon brought down Rankin when the latter was on one of his flying sprints. Derbyshire and Rodway cleared at a critical moment, but the pressure was severe and almost continuous. Hardman only just missed with a cross shot, and McBride made a magnificent save from a fine drive by Booth. A bad miskick by Derbyshire brought danger, but Rodway covered his partner splendidly. Five minutes before the interval Hunter and Lyon started Wilson, and a promising movement brought a centre from Bourne, but Smith coming along full pelt, lifted the ball too high. Brown was very close just afterwards. Half-time; Everton 1, North End 0.
Everton well deserved their lead of a goal, though their form in front of McBride had not been nearly so effective as in the open. Their passing was clever, but they were inclined to overdo it when within the shooting zone. North End started well enough, and during the first ten or 15 minutes were perhaps a bit of better side, but as the game advanced their forwards had made fewer attacks, the right wing being rather weak, and this had placed a very large share of work on the defenders, who had more to do than they cared for. When play was resumed, before 26,000 spectators, the Everton left-wingers speedily got into their stride, and Hardman’s centre brought about an interesting situation. Settle finally failing to get in a shot. Wilson and Bourne participated in a smart attack which the latter finished by sending behind. A corner to the Everton left was safely cleared, and with North End away Bell lifted the ball across to Smith, who sent in a dropping shot, which Scott saved in the coolest fashion. The Prestonians remained in the Everton half for several minutes, and Brown tried hard to find an opening. The game was next transferred to midfield, and was not of a stirring character. There was enthusiasm as Balmer forced the ball into touch when Bourne looked like getting clear away. Rankin jumped off towards the other end of the field, but McLean beat him finely, and a centre from Bell brought trouble to the Everton defenders. North End were decidedly the more aggressive side, and the spectators became somewhat impatient over the turn of events. A quarter of an hour after the resumption Booth hurt his knee, and was carried from the field. This caused a rearrangement of the home team. Taylor going centre half and Rankin dropping back to right half. North End continued the attack, but Balmer and Crelly defended resolutely. A free kick resulted in Scott passing to Hardman who was unmarked but the outside left’s shot lacked precision. Then followed the best effort the Evertonians had made since the interval, and McBride and Rodway both saved splendidly. The Prestonians again entered their opponents’ territory, but were hampered by one-back tactics. Everton were, of course, justified in trying to place the Preston forwards offside, and they had more of the play than they had earlier in the second half, when they had eleven men on the field. Though the football was somewhat moderate in science, there were exciting play at either end. McBride saved after Settle had broken though and had sent in a swift shot, while Smith who was by no means at his best, missed a good chance. A little later Smith made a magnificent effort to retrieve himself, for he dashed between the backs and from a most difficult position put in a grand shot. Scott bounced the ball down and then cleared, but the effort was worthy the applause it received. Everton, however, did not mean to risk anything and they carried the play into Preston quarters, where Hardman and Settle had rather the better of several sharp passages. There were now only ten minutes left for play, and the chance of North End averting defeat were small. Settle had an opportunity of making the game absolutely safe, but he passed when he should have shot. Bell once looked to have an opportunity for a sharp run and a shot. He refused to pass, however, and the ball was kicked up the field. McBride was again tested with a fast one, but he tipped the ball over the bar with masterly skill. The concluding stages were characterised by keen efforts, but the play was more or less ragged and no further scoring took place, so that North End sustained defeat by the narrowest possible margin a result with which no one can quarrel, for Everton were value for the victory and no Prestonian can complain at losing by a single goal at Goodison Park. Result; Everton 1, North End 0

EVERTON v  PRESTON NORTH END
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 24 September 1904
McDERMOTT OPENS THE SCORING
EVERTON LEAD AT THE INTERVAL
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
The losses suffered by Everton of late owing to disabilities have evoked the warm sympathies of their supporters, who turned up today in full force to witness the encounter with Preston North End, whose present position in League affairs is more commensurate with past achievements than their sojourn in the second division last season suggests. The deeds of the North Enders so far recall those efforts which in the past won them renown and a hearty welcome to Liverpool. Preston claim seven points out of four games played, and they have yet to taste the sting of defeat, and in consequence the North Enders head the League table, though the home supporters felt sanguine that the Blues would rise to the occasion and bring about the fall of their old-time opponents. The teams were as follow;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
North End.- McBride, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Hunter and Lyon, half-backs; Bell (Jack)(captain), Smith, Brown, Wilson and Bourne, forwards.
Referee; Mr. J. Lewis, Blackburn.
There were about 20,000 spectators present when the teams appeared, North End coming in for a most hearty reception. The Preston skipper won the toss, and set his opponents to face a stiff breeze. Young kicked off, and for a few moments Everton had the best of matters, fine work by the forwards being spoiled by a bad pass on the part of Settle. A very good spell of work was then put in by the North Enders, who broke away on the left, Bourne gave Brown a rare chance of scoring, but he tamely put the ball behind. A moment later a further chance came to Brown, but again he was at fault. Balmer checked the left wingers, and Everton showed up better, going down in rare style until a misunderstanding among the forwards gave an opening to Rodway, who cleared handsomely. A corner by North End was foiled by a pass from Booth to Hardman, the latter racing the length of the field, and then clumsily shot to Young. The latter passed on the leather again to Hardman, but nothing secured. A few clever moves by the home team called forth the approbation of the spectators. Wilson, Brown, and Smith tried to shift play to the other end. A lovely run was hereabouts made by Rankin and McDermott, but Rodway stepped in and checked at the crucial moment. Everton then had a free kick, but failed to improve on it. The game became very tame for some time, North End being the first to put any life into the play. They went down on the left, and after the ball had been forced out of play the Preston forwards crowded the Everton goal. Scott appeared to be in a fight place after Settle and Booth had tried to check, and Smith had a rare opening, but fouled the goalkeeper, the consequent free kick landing the game in midfield. The Everton forwards made tracks for the Preston goal, but before they could get within shooting distance Hunter broke up the attack. The game was very fast, and the Prestonians showed themselves smart and tricky in forward play. Their advances were rapid and well-conceived but in all cases Balmer and Crelly offered stern opposition. Rodway and Derbyshire were equally defensible for Preston, and frequently broke up promising incursions by Everton wings. Good efforts by Rankin and Young were successfully negotiated, but McBride had to concede a corner to a very swift shot from Young. The Blues continued the pressure, and Rankin followed up a very smart run by a shot which carried the leather behind. So far the combination of the home lot was not very enthusing, and a great amount of raggedness and indecision characterised their finishing efforts. After Booth had put across neatly to Hardman, Derbyshire neutralised the effort by smart tackling. The Blues remained in Preston territory, but Young failed to take a pass from Settle. A long pass from the centre was captured by Hardman, who raced down and forced a barren corner, after which the home forwards were well served by Booth and Makepeace. A most finished exhibition of passing was then given, at the end of which McDermott sent wide. A minute later Hardman had possession, and raced down his wing, afterwards dropping the ball into the centre. Here McDermott was handy, and although somewhat badly placed he drove the ball into the net, giving McBride no chance whatever. Everton’s goal came after about thirty minutes’ play, and McDermott was heartily congratulated on his achievement. The North Enders responded to the Evertonian success with a smart advance. Bell had a capital chance of centreing, but only managed to put the leather behind Young, Settle, and Hardman next made promising attack but at the critical moment Rodway intercepted Young as he was about to shoot. The Blue would not be denied, and came again on the left, where Lyon was penalised, and from the free kick McDermott only missed McBride’s goal by a foot. Everton continued to be decidedly aggressive, and Harker had to respond to a promising header from Hardman, Preston failed to get away, and Booth had a long shot, which turned out very well directed, McBride took it from just under the bar. McBride followed this smart save up with another, which was the outcome of the corner which he had just conceded. Booth captured the ball before it reached the half-way line, and a rare place from this player gave his front rank a good opening. Rodway responded and then a foul against one of the Evertonians gave the ball to Bell, who got right down the field, but at the last moment, in endeavouring to centre, sent the ball over the crossbar. After a spell of play in midfield Bourne skied the leather, and Smith made no better use of an opportunity which presented itself. Some determined rushes by the North End left wingers were met in very cool style time after time by Balmer, who beat Bourne and his partner every time. Preston made a sharp attack on their left which might easily have been successful had they followed it up energetically. A centre from Bourne was not cleared by the home backs, and both Wilson and Brown tried to obtain possession, but not to their mutual advantage. Balmer and Crelly joined in the fray, and to such purpose that Wilson made a very feeble effort, putting well over the bar. The North Enders were not driven out, and when the whistle announced the interval they were still in Everton’s territory.
Half-time;- Everton 1 goal, Preston North End nil.
BOOTH RETIRES HURT
EVERTON’S GREAT EFFORT SETTLE IN FORM
After changing ends, Brown re-started in the presence of 25,000 spectators. The Evertonians soon found their way to the front, where Settle and McDermott got befogged, and a likely opening was lost. Coming again, Settle passed out to Hardman, who was promptly ruled off-side. Bourne and Wilson next made a smart advance who had Makepeace now beaten, but the Preston wing failed miserably at an attempt to centre. Everton responded with a rapid move down their left, but opposition came from McLean and Derbyshire, and Hardman lost his equilibrium. After Makepeace had failed to check Bell and Smith, Crelly succeeded, but operations were still carried on in Everton territory. Everton, however, persisted, and came down their left wing, and a bully followed adjacent to McBride, when Makepeace put the ball a yard outside McBride’s sticks. Bourne and Wilson travelled down their wing, and showed excellent combination, but their attack was beautifully broken up by Booth, and during the subsequent advance into North End’s territory Young and McDermott came into collision. Wilson was pulled up when he was close in, and when the visitors came down again and looked like equalising Balmer made a grand clearance. Here, Booth was injured and had to be carried off, leaving Everton seriously handicapped. Taylor went centre half and Rankin right half. North End attacked strongly, but Balmer beat them, and the ball was passed on to Hardman, who raced away, but failed  to pass Derbyshire who returned to the half-way line. Shortly afterwards Settle got placed, and passed to Hardman, who sent a foot wide. A long attack by Everton followed, in which all the forwards took part. McBride saved from Rankin.
Final Result Everton 1 goal Preston North End nil.

PRESTON NORTH END v  EVERTON COMBINATION
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 24 September 1904
LANCASHIRE COMBIANTION -DIV A
At Deepdale, in the first half both goals were jeopardised but the attacks were repulsed. Play was in favour of the home team, and five minutes from the interval Wilcox scored with a good low swift shot. North End had the best of matters towards the close, and Warner nearly scored from a free kick. Everton got away, but Taylor did all required. Score at half-time- North End 1 goal, Everton Res nil.

PRESTON LOSE AT COODISON PARK
London Daily News - Monday 26 September 1904
For the first time in four years Everton and Preston North End met in a league match. Evcrton were still without Sharp and Abbott, Booth reappearing; while Bell played instead of Bond for Preston. Fast, though by no means exciting, football was seen in the first half. Both sides pressed in turn, and McDermott scoring Everton led by one goal to nothing at the interval. The home side lost Booth early in the second half, but still Everton had the better of the game. Both goalkeepers did good work, and nothing further was scored. Everton winning by one goal to none.

EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 26 September 1904
Nowhere was there such an assembly as at Everton, for no fewer than 32.000 people watched the Goodison Park Club renew their struggles with Preston North End. Prior to Saturday these foemen had played 26 League matches since December 22,1888, and each side had won ten, while Preston had obtained 48 goals and Everton 42. Three times, namely, in 1888-89, 1890-91, and in 1896- 97. Have the Prestonians carried off the spoils in both matches of the season, while Everton have had the same pleasure in two campaigns. Only once have Preston prevailed at Park, and that on February 6, 1897, when the North End conquered by 4—3, the winning goal being scored in the last minute or so. Only on Saturday Mr. T. Houghton, of Preston, declared that this was one of the best games he ever saw. * * Usually speaking, the goal-getting has been small when these rivals have met of late years, and Saturday was no exception, for the public paid into the Everton exchequer over 768 pounds to see one goal placed on the books. Still that sufficed to decide a very hard struggle, in which there often some clever football. Everton richly deserved the victory which McDermott's goal gave them.
This is particularly so when we recollect that for the last half hour Booth, the Everton captain, was in the dressing room nursing a kicked and slightly sprained ankle. Booth played against Notts on September 3, when he injured the calf of his leg. After missing three matches he was very anxious to play against Preston, and this is the result—a most unfortunate incident when one remembers that it will probably keep him out of football for two or three weeks, and that when Abbott has a damaged knee joint and when Sharp is incapacitated by an injury to the hamstring muscles. At a time like this Everton are fortunate to secure the transfer of Sam Ashworth, late of Stoke and Manchester City. As a matter of fact, Ashworth wanted to join Everton when he left Stoke, and now his wish is gratified. In addition to this sterling little player, Everton have good half-backs in Makepeace and Rankin—both Liverpool youths—for Rankin seems more like half-back than a forward. One of the best displays on Saturday was given by John Taylor, the old Dumbarton utility footballer, who now assisted Everton for twelve successive seasons, and will, stand comparison with many of the great players. All being well Ever ton have a desire to reward this faithful soldier with a second benefit next season. We trust that he will live to enjoy a bumper, and in the meanwhile he well do his best to insure the successes of the testimonial matches to Abbott and Sharp, Kitchen and Settle, four who have been rewarded with the League matches against Bury and Aston Villa this season. Everton do not believe in doing these things in a half-hearted manner.  If a man is worth a benefit they will see that it is a fitting solatium for many hard knocks, as Taylor can testify. Preston would have been quite content with a drawn game, but their forwards were too remiss in front of goal to deserve half the points involved. 

EVERTON ECLIPSE PRESTON.
Athletic News - Monday 26 September 1904
By Tityrus.
SO far as this season has progressed Preston North End had a novel experience on Saturday at Everton, as they had to endure the bitter experience of reverse. It was their first offence. When Midshipman Easy had to apologies for his baby he pleaded that it was very small one. So Preston can urge that they could not have suffered less-for the only goal of a desperately fought game was credited to the Evertonians. At the same time, the gallant Prestonians never conveyed the impression that they would maintain their sequence of successes.  Although the North End were vanquished they gave us purer and finer football than when they overcame Sunderland at Deepdale. The visitors to Goodison Park need not make any excuses. They have not much to reproach themselves for. The explanation of their downfall is perfectly simple. They met a more evenly balanced and a cleverer combination. Any sound critic of the game could not escape from this conclusion. At the outset there were several prettily executed movements, and for twenty minutes the Prestonians did not suffer by comparison. But the only attack of the match which was brought to a happy consummation—the climax of all striving—was made by Everton. McDermott had wandered to the left wing, and when he was in possession I wondered why he did not pass out to Rankin, who was quite unmarked, for Lyon had also deserted his wing. This was a fatal error, as it happened. For when McDermott eventually transferred to Hardman the leather rolled over the touch-line. From the throw in Booth made a swinging pass, and McDermott, who had returned to his place as inside-right, shot with such splendid pace and precision that McBride was unable to cope with the ball as it flew neath the bar. Thus at the end of half an hour the “Blues” took a lead of which they were never deprived. Had Lyon been back on his wing perhaps McDermott would never have had his chance. Still, one never knows. Of course, the North End tried desperately to get on terms with their opponents. Following rapidly on this goal there was a foul which helped Preston considerably, but Scott was on the alert. In the second portion of the game the visitors could not complain for want of opportunity, for Booth was so badly kicked on the ankle that he had to be carried off the field. So for quite half an hour the Evertonians had only ten men. Taylor went to centre half-back, and Rankin was called from outside-right to the middle line on the same wing. But the ten “Blues” seemed to exert themselves just a little more. It might have been one-tenth more of energy on the part of each player. Ten-tenths would atone in a large measure for even Booth.   But Everton had the better of the combat, for the middlemen kept swinging the ball out to Hardman, who kept Derbyshire everlastingly on the stretch by his runs and centres. McBride had many an anxious moment, but such a master was equal to very strain. This could not be said of Percy Smith, who had one superb chance of equalizing, for Scott had been drawn out, and had not recovered his position when Smith had the whole mouth of the netted haven to fire at, and then was guilty of an “outer.” But indifferent shooting was one of the features of the game, and it is really difficult to say who were the greatest sinners in this respect.  Still, one goal covers a multitude of sins—both omission and commission—when the other fellows go empty away. As a display of League football the game was rather above the average, especially when we consider that the lively ball often bothered the teams, and was really difficult to keep on the grass. The least touch and it was away up in the air, and too frequently over the cross bar. When we remember that Sharp was absent, and that Abbott was also away, as well the injury to Booth, Everton deserve to be heartily congratulated on their performance. The victory gave unalloyed pleasure to 32,000 spectators. Everton look like developing into a strong side. They nearly always do at the beginning of a season, and then they too often disappoint when most is expected of them. Let us hope that this season will bring compensation. They have had more than their share of ill-luck at the outset with players like Booth, Abbott, and Sharp in the wars. Therefore their present rank is the more creditable to them. Judging by what I saw, I should say that the only faults to correct are in the haphazard returns of the backs and the lack of systematic feeding of the forwards. The two are intimately related, for the good back is he who picks out attackers well placed and tries to drop the ball to them. Scott, the Irish International goal keeper, fields beautifully, and it occurred to me that his handwork is better than his footwork in clearing. Balmer and Crelley were, as I have suggested, rather loose and impulsive. Quite early in the game it seemed as if they could out-maneuvered, and yet the Preston vanguard never quite grasped the situation. Incidentally I may add that I have seen both of them more accurate in their returns.  Strategy was the keynote of Booth's play, and his transferences were oft an object lesson. Tis a pity he is again incapacitated, and probably for two or three weeks. Taylor is simply a wonder considering the many years that he has worn the Everton jersey. Always fit, he reminds one of the Scot who declared that he would play until he “drapped.” His experience admirably served his side when Booth was laid by. In Henry Makepeace, the cricketer, Everton have discovered a recruit of great promise. He plays honest football and plays it well both in attack and defence. There is no denying the ability of the Everton forwards, even admitting the fact that they are prone to overelaboration and would be the more effective if they went straighter for goal and, having arrived, shot on the ground without delay. Settle retains all his cleverness, and he is difficult to dispossess. Indeed he might often pass sooner with advantage, but really he and Makepeace gave Harold Hardman countless opportunities.  But they never seemed able to overwork the Blackpool youth.  Ever willing, and always ready, Hardman has a happy knack of receiving the ball and hooking it with him.  Very quick into his stride his pace is most serviceable and his centres good, although they can be improved, and he would benefit by making them earlier. In these days, when outside lefts of capacity are comparatively rare, Hardman is a wiry youth who is likely to go far. It seems impossible to give him too much to do, and he led Derbyshire a dance, especially during the last half hour. Young and McDermott are above the average in merit, and the latter is certainly an artist in midfield; but Rankin struck me as likely to develop into a sterling half-back.  With so many accidents, he may have his chance. Preston made a fatal mistake in reintroducing John Bell, as outside right.  He was seldom seen, and when he did get possession I felt inclined to sympathize with him, for youth will be served especially in speed.  Bond should surely have been allowed to retain his place.  Percy Smith made one good run, but he was handicapped by a kick just above the right knee and was not in his sharp shooting mood. And yet I should describe him as dividing the honours with Wilson in the attack for Brown was often cumbrous near goal and seemed irritated by Balmer, while Bourne was too often off-ide.  The half-backs are unquestionably the strongest section of the Preston team, and as a body they played a hard but not a brilliant game, Lyon being the most accomplished of the three.  Rodway was the sturdier and more resourceful back.  I liked him much better than against Sunderland.  In all that he had to do McBride defied criticism.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Taylor, Booth (Captain), Makepeace; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P.Hardman.  Preston North End; McBride; Derbyshire, Rodway; Mclean, Hunter, Lyon; Bell, Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Bourne.  Referee; John Lewis, Blackburn.

EVERTON’S LATEST CAPTURE
Athletic News - Monday 26 September 1904
By Junius
The signature of S.B. Ashworth was secured by the Everton secretary on Friday and he will probably turn out for his new club a fortnight hence, when the “Wolves” visit Goodison Park.  Everton have experienced bad luck in their half-back line this season, for following the defection of Wolstenholme, Booth and Abbott have already been in the wars, and the former received a severe kick above the ankle on Saturday, which necessitated his removal from the field just after the interval.  The acquisition of Ashworth therefore, comes at a most opportune moment, and he should strengthen the intermediate line. 

NORTH END'S FIRST REVERSE
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 26 September 1904
In reviewing the game at Goodison Park, I shall make no attempt to conceal the fact that the victory of Everton was a fair result of the actual play. On the contrary, let me start with the statememnt that thir success was the legitimate issue of the game; they were the smarter side. At the same time I have not the slightest intention of putting on the cap of the captious critic in regard to the play of the Preston team. There is not the tiniest atom of disgrace in going down on the Goodison ground, and in losing by a single goal only. North End improved on the performance of the only other team who have visted Everton this season, that is on Sheffield United, who were sent away defeated by two goals to nothing. It is easy to imagine that the reverse would be galling to those optimistic enthusasts who have conjred up visions of a similar sequence of successes to last season, when the Prestonians ran to the middle of December before they finished a game on the wrong side. Those who look at the matter calmly and sensibly will recognise the vast difference in the calibre of the teams North End are having to face in the First Division, and will be highly delighted that the first five games, three of them away against Aston Villa, Woolwich Arsenal and Everton, have produced seven points. Despite the defeat at Everton, North End have this season performed splendidly, and I take, perhaps a peculiar pleasure in making this remark in the hour of their first reverse.
Fitting Result
The match attrached a magnificent crowd, which must have exceeded 30,000 at its strongest, and North End had a capital following from Preston. The game as a whole did not reach the standard the majority of these spectators must have expected. There was a spirited commencement, and for a quarter of an hour the vistors were equal to their opponents in some sharp exchanges which kept the crowd thoroughly alive with interest, and even excitement. Afterwards the pace slowed down and Everton began to have the larger share of play. Bad shooting, however, was a distinct failing in their football, but some time before the interval McDermot seized a chance, which good luck had a part in providing and Everton were a goal to the good. On turning round, North End almost recalled their lead off by some clever football, and when Booth, the Everton centre half, was carried off half an hour before the close with an injured knee, there seemed a really considerable chance for the Prestonians. The Everton defence was strengthened by drawing Rankin back into the half-back line, and the backs showed some skill in placing the visiting forwards offside. In point of fact, Everton did better after the retirement of Booth than they had done in the second half when he was on the field. Play was somewhat straggling, and on the whole the home team looked rather more likely to increase their lead than North End did to draw level. In point of fact, however, McDermott's goal remained in "Splendid isloation" to the end.
Where Everton Were Superior
In seeking to set out the points in which Everton were superior to their opponents, i give a prominent place to their quickness on the ball. They were particularly smart and for the first time this season North End found themselves inferior to the other side in this matter. This was especially the case with the forwards. Everton's atatck, too, was rather more skilful in the open than that of the Preston team, and at all events it was better ablanced, both wings doing a fair share of clever work, and both outside men showing plenty of speed. I think, too, that there was more co-operation between their halves and forwards. So much for the strengths of the Everton eleven, There were weaknesse's and the greatest of all was the signal failure of the forwards to follow up their neat passing in the opening with effective shooting. despite the soundness of much of the Preston defence the home forwards had more chances than were accepted, and it was near the finish before they really exhibited anything like good form near goal. Settle and Hardman were the smartly wing, ythough the former has often been sharper at close quarters. Rankin and McDermot, the outside man being very fleet footed, werew a useful pair, but of Young I did not think a great deal. He lies right on the backs waiting for chances, and then neglects to take them when they come. The halves were a really good line, and Crelly was the better back, Scott in goal, had an easy afternoon.
Prestonian Points
Having admitted that Everton deserved their victory, let me say that they did not play such a game as would have achieved success had North End shown the same form as against Aston Villa, Sunderland, and Derby county. I think the game might have gone differently if North End had not been latally weak on the right wing. Bell, who felt perfectly fit, reappeared, and he was exceedingly anxious to do well against his old club. Probably he would be the first to admit that he had a bad day. His speed was by no means equal to Crelley's and he has seldon played less effectively. Then Smith, his partner, was entirely off colour. A nasty kick early in the game certainly made him limp badly for a little time and it may have influenced his game all through. At any rate, he was very poor for Smith. When you have one wing totally "off" the atatck, and indeed the whole team, is bound to suffer. The other three forwards played about as well as could be expected under the circumstances, and Borne certainly improved on recent form. There were some bouts of good passing, and had the right wingers been in form I think the atatck might easily have settled down all right. As it was, there was unmistalenable weakness. This threw additional work on the defence. All the halves put in all they knew, though they bhad more running about than they could have cared for. Hunter was the best of the trio, with McLean next. I place Lyon in the unaccustomed position of third man, not because he lacked skill of energy, but because he failed to keep his palce and gave the home right wing too much rope. Both backs did valuable work, with Rodway, who played a game unexcelled by anyone on the side, the safer of the two. Derbyshire hardly playing vigorously enough on Hardman. In spite of Everton's frequent failure in shooting, McBride was severely tested on several occasions, and was clean and certain as could be. It certainly speaks well for the Preston defenders this season that fewer goals have been scored against them than against any other club in the division.

NORTH END'S SECOND VICTORY
Lancashire Evening Post - Monday 26 September 1904
North End Reserve, in their second home match, again secured the full points by a victory of 2-0 over Everton. The first goal was secured by Wilcox just before the interval, and the second came from the foot of Catterall in the last few minutes of the game. On the whole the homesters were the better team and had most of the play. While Everton atatcked it was with no little energy and wim, and Taylor was seen at his best, which is saying a great deal for the North End custodian. Both the home backs played a capital game. In the half-back line Tod was below his form, and this, perhaps, might be accounted for in some measure by the fact that he was not in his customary position, and that fact that he was opposed to so capable a player as Dilly, an Irish international, who was the pick of the Everton forwards. Rowe defended and fed his forwards well, and at left half Butterworth, who comes from Liverpool district, and who made his second appearance, and looks as if he has the making of a good player in him. Two new men were tried in the forward line, these being Rodgers, of Newcastle, and Knibbs of Burton-on-Trent.

EVERTON 1 PRESTON NORTH END 0
September 26,1904. The Liverpool Courier.
The visit of the famous North End to Goodison Park on Saturday was favoured with fine weather, and there was a splendid attendance, about 25,000 people being present. Preston had a great reception on entering the enclosure. They were at full strength, but Everton were still without Abbott, and Sharp, their places being taken by Makepeace and Rankin. The teams were as follows: - Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Taylor, Booth (captain), and Makepeace, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Preston North End: - McBride, goal Derbyshire, and Rodway, backs, McLean, Hunter, and Lyon half-backs, J.Bell (captain), Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Bourne, forwards. Referee John Lewis. Bell won the toss and Young kicked off shortly before time. The home right were immediately prominent, but Lyon relieved. Smart passing by the Everton front line was nullified by Settle passing to an opponent. Then the North End left broke away but Brown shot wide, North End kept up the attack for some time, and a fine centre from Bourne was headed over by Smith. Makepeace smartly gave Settle possession and the latter passed out to Hardman, who ran the full length of the field. From his centre, however, the ball was placed high over the bar. Next Rankin tried a run on his own but Lyon sent the ball out to touch. Next Scott handled, and the Everton right raced away, an appeal for a corner being disregarded. Nice passing between Settle, Young, and Hardman brought no result, and in the course of a vigorous attack by the visiting side, Wilson was penalised for offside just as Brown shot strongly into the hands of Scott. In an attack on the Everton goal, Bell was penalised for bringing down the goalkeeper. Brown also fell under the ban of the referee for an unfair charge out Everton could make nothing out of the resulting free kick. They attacked strongly, but McBride was never in difficulties. Smith was temporarily disabled and when he recovered the Evertonians assumed the aggressive in real earnest. Rankin, McDermott, and Young were prominent and then Booth forced a corner which was admirably placed, McBride however, fisted it away, but still the Everton forwards were persistent. Settle provided a beautifully opening for Rankin, who however, quite failed to rise to the occasion. McDermott made a mull of an attempt to open the score, but he was by no means the only offender. A moment later the home inside right made ample amends for any previous shortcomings. Hardman initiated dangerous movements, and from his centre the ball cannoned off one of the Preston backs to Young. The latter tipped it over to McDermott, who then in an awkward position planted the ball in the net quite out of the reach of McBride. It was really brilliant goal, and was deservedly cheered to the echo. The visitors after this reverse played up with renewed energy, but without making much impression on the defence. From long range Booth sent in a fine shot which McBride only diverted at the expense of a corner. Hardman placed the ball splendidly, and after McBride had fisted away McDermott's shot was somewhat luckily charged down. It was a narrow escape for Notts End. Still the latter were not depressed, and working their way down Bell had a rare chance from a centre, but his effort was as wide as was that of Smith a few minutes later. Good play by Bourne caused Scott to come out of his goal, and kick away, and immediately afterwards Brown missed a rare chance of equalising. Half-time Everton 1, Preston North End nil.
On resuming Everton went off with rare dash, and a goal seemed likely to accrue in the first minute Rankin was conspicuous with an unexpected back pass which, however, neither Young nor Settle could turn to account. Suddenly the North End forwards dashed off to the other end, but Borne made a terrible mess of an attempt at goal. At the other end McBride conceded a corner, which proved to be useless. Next the visiting forwards with in evidence, but Scott had no difficulty in maintaining his charge intact. Wilson when well placed shot wildly the wrong side of the upright. Booth unfortunately injured his knee, and had to be carried off the field by Elliott, the trainer. This was a serious loss to Everton, and in the necessary rearrangement of their forces, Taylor went centre half, Rankin failing back to right half. The players, however, struck gallantly to their work, and had quite as much, if not more of the game than their opponents. The North End forwards seemed to have little idea of where the goal posts lay, while the Evertonians were quicker on the ball and had more methods in their movements. Everton were the better team to the finish, but could not added to their score. Result Everton 1, Preston North End nil.

PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
September 26, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination “A” Division (Game 4)
At Preston. Before 4,000 spectators. Play was well contested in the first half, both goalkeepers making some splendid saves. Dent particularly doing good work. After Sheridan had missed a fine opening, Wilcox scored for Preston. In the second half the home side added another goal, Everton failing to respond. Final Preston 2 Everton nil : - Everton: - Dent, goal, Wildman, and R.Balmer, backs, Clayton, Chadwick, and Hutchinson halfbacks, Hanlin, Sheridan, McAdams, Caldwell, and Dilly forwards.

EVERTON REVIEW
September 26 1904. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton administered the first check of the season to Preston North End, and as both Newcastle United and the Rovers were likewise sustaining their initial reverse at Small Heath and Nottingham respectively, Sheffield Wednesday now rank as the only unbeaten team in the First Division of the League. This defeat of the North Enders was the only occasion in which they had been on the losing side since March 12 last season, when they were trounced in a second League fixture with the City. Considering that Everton were still without Abbott, and that Booth was so badly kicked above the ankle shortly after the interval, that he had to retire permantely, their performance is a creditable one, and although their success was secured by the only goal of the match, obtained by McDermott, they were the better team and fully deserved to win. It cannot be said that the exposition of the football given by either side was particularly attractive, and in the first half especially it was utterly devoid of any incident worthy of note, with the solitary exception of the movement which, enabled McDermott to register the goal that won the game. The shot which he sent in was beautifully judged, and placed with accurate precision in the very spot which gave McBride the least chance of getting at the ball, the result being that the Keeper was hopelessly beaten. On both sides the forwards play was ragged, and there were weak spots noticeable which stood out in marked contrast, to the capital work accomplished by others in the front rank. Young was not seen at his best, and neither in midfield nor near goal did he exhibit the form which he produced in some of his earlier games. This is somewhat strange, for the man on either side of him were in a cunning vein, and frequently bluffed the Preston half-backs affording the centre ample opportunities of making headway. More dash and determination is necessary especially when going for goal. Rankin was not a success on the extreme right, and he failed to utilise several excellent chances of showing his speed, whilst he was easily dispossessed. Curiously enough when he retired to right half on the withdrawal of Booth he shaped exceedingly well, and altogether surpassed everything he had done in the forward line. A reproduction of such form would lead one to suggest that right half is his proper position, to which by the way he is no stranger. McDermott is an adept with the ball, and with the only exception that he was inclined at times to take matters too coolly played a capital game. His drawing of the Preston half-backs around him, and then flashing the ball to the right of left as the circumstances of the case demanded were most ably achieved and it was unfortunate that much of his good work was nullified by his partner. Settle seemed to have regained his pristine form, and the combined movements on the left wing constituted the most dangerous part of the Everton attack. Hardman was knocked about considerably by the Preston heavy weight, but he bore his grueling manfully, and in the last quarter of an hour got back some little satisfaction for his earlier trouble, for he ran Derbyshire almost to a standstill, which no doubt afforded him soothing consolation. But there was room for improvement in shooting taking the forwards as a body, and it was only in the closing stages that McBride was ever in difficulties. One terrific drive from Hardman, about five minutes from time was more artistically tipped over the bar, and with Taylor unable to keep away from the fighting line, the Preston defence was more severely taxed during this period than in any other portion of the game. In the half-back division an average level was reached by the trio, none of which, however, displayed particular prominence Booth was the most effective, though Taylor, in his characteristic fashion, entered into the fray with unabated vigour, and Makepeace in the second half gave a decidedly useful display. Prior to the interval he contented himself too much with defence, but later on he was more aggressive and his play improved vastly as a natural consequence. Crelly was the better of the backs, for Balmer was at times none too reliable in his kicking, and Scott who had little to do, maintained his charge intact. He should have been easily beaten in the second half after saving as shots form the right wing, which he failed to get clear away, but near the finish he repelled a beautiful drive from Smith, who had dribbled close in. Preston lost all chance of averting defeat by the feeble shooting, and some easy opportunities of equalising were allowed to pass unheeded. As was the case on the home side, the left wing was the most efficient part of the front line. Bourne running, and centring in excellent style. In midfield some defy footwork was witnessed at times, but the forwards seldom appeared likely to score, and were frequently at fault when within range off the home custodian. Rodway and Derbyshire proved a sturdy pair of backs kicking with commendable precision, but they fell away somewhat towards the close of the game. In the half-back division each of the three players proved expert in the adoption of worrying tactics. McLean being especially noticeable in this respect, whilst the old Liverpool player, Hunter, also got through a vast amount of harassing work. In goal McBride was like his vis-à-vis, seldom requisitioned, but he was never at fault with what he had to deal with, and could not possibly be held responsible for the shot that did take effect. Judging from their form in this match, North End will acquit themselves with credit in the first division, but the attack does not seen as reliable as the defensive portion of the team.

SATURDAY’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 26 September 1904
Supporters of Everton could hardly have expected their team to prove formidable opponents with Sharp and Abbott absent, and more particularly in the second half when they were minus Booth, who had to be carried off with a twisted foot.
The game was singularly lacking in incident. There was no want of energy shown by either set of forwards, though the work in front of goal was very careless at times. Preston were the chief offenders, as their attacks showed lamentable want of method and finish. Neither was their shooting creditable; on occasions it was even execrable. If the attack was scraggy it may have been because of the stern and energetic opposition offered to the backs on both sides. Seldom indeed could Hardman get the best of Derbyshire, who frequently bowled him clean over. Settle was much more successful, and was in very tricky mood; indeed, he has not shown such smart and resourceful form for a long time, and it may be the left wing will prove this season to be as effective as the right. Young was not happy, as Rodway and Derbyshire made a point of sandwiching him. The Everton centre had no fancy for the close attentions of the burly pair opposed to him, and he constantly flinched from the ordeal. McDermott scored the only goal, but the situation was opened up by Hardman. It was a beautiful piece of work combining energy, quickness and decision. McBride was bewildered and helpless before the electrical attack of Hardman, Settle, and McDermott. Unfortunately this highly successful flash in the pan was not repeated, although Everton’s advances were much more frequent and dangerous than those of the North-enders’ vanguard. Rankin was not at his best, and though speedy enough displayed little method, Balmer and Crelly acquitted themselves splendidly, and Scott was seldom really hard pressed, but when in danger he gave evidence of brilliant custodianship. At present Everton’s half-back line is disarranging the balance of the whole team, but it is very probable the inclusion of Ashworth will soon remedy this disability, and then we shall see what a clever lot the Goodison Park contingent really are. Had North End made a special effort when Everton were left with only ten men early in the second half, they might easily have equalised; but, as a matter of fact, they did not appear to recognise the advantage they had, and played on as if it was not a very important matter to penetrate Scott’s defence.

EVERTON v  PRESTON NORTH END
Liverpool Mercury - Monday 26 September 1904
There were about 23,000 spectators at this League match at Goodison Park. North End played Bell for Bond, and Everton were still without Shap and Abbott. Play in the first half was not very high class. Everton, however, had rather the best of matters, and a really splendid effort by McDermott gave them a well deserved lead.
Interval-Everton, 1; Preston, nil.
In the second half, Everton after 15 minutes play, lost the services of Booth, who hurt his knee, and had to be carried off the field. Still, they outplayed their opponents, and McBride was kept busily engaged. Young missed when under the goalpost, and once Scott saved brilliantly from Smith. Everton were pressing at the finish.
Result- Everton 1, Preston 0.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Makepeace, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
North End.- McBride, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Hunter and Lyon, half-backs; Bell (Jack)(captain), Smith, Brown, Wilson and Bourne, forwards.

THE GARRETT MEMORIAL HALL
Liverpool Mercury - Wednesday 28 September 1904
LIVERPOOL WESLEYAN MISSION
To-day there will be placed the foundation-stone of the new Central Hall of the Liverpool Wesleyan mission, erected as a memorial to the Rev. Charles Garrett. It is barely four years since the Wesleyan body lost its illustrious leader, and the life work of the great philanthropist, preacher, and temperance advocate, is so fresh in the minds of everyone that few words are need to commend to the public the enterprise by which the Liverpool Wesleyan Mission Committee are about to perpetuate his memory. Charles Garrett might have been truly described as one of the nature’s noblemen. His successful labours in Preston (at the time of the cotton famine) and Manchester are imperishable; but in Liverpool he worked for the last 25 years of his life. The Liverpool Mission now comprises eight chapels and halls in different parts of the city, three boys’ and three girls’ homes, and special work connected with lodging-house men, factory girls, and police courts, &c. By the erection of the Memorial Hall, of which we gibe a sketch, the headquarters of the Mission will be transferred from Mount-pleasant to Renshaw-street, where an admirable site has been obtained for the new premises by negotiation with the Corporation. The new building has been designed by Messrs, Bradshaw and Gass, F.R.I.B.A., of Bolton, and will contain two halls, one to accommodate 2500 people in full view of the platform, and the other to seat about 750. The latter will be arranged with terraced seats at the back, and will be adaptable for Sunday school work. There will also be reception and crush halls, class-rooms, rooms for social work amongst both sexes, a drill hall, and administration offices. The main approach is to be through a wide vestibule beneath the central tower, and the two others from the Corporation gardens to be laid out on the site of the Unitarian Burial Ground in Mount-pleasant and from Upper Newington-street.  Provision is made in main hall for large organ.   Shops with fine showrooms and offices will be place in the main portion of Renshaw-street and Upper Newington frontages, and will provide a permanent source of income to the Mission. The total cost with furnishings and organ is estimated at £37,250. In addition to this there has been an expenditure of £4750 in connection with the half-coast of houses in Upper Newington, and debt transferred from the Mount-pleasant site; and, further, there is a sum of £3000 required for the enlargement and improvement of Boys’ Homes, and the erection of a training home.  Towards this total of £45,000 the committee have in contributions paid and promised, together with a grant of £7500 from the Wesleyan Twentieth Century Fund, the sum of £21,000. By a district to be held in April next, the committee hope to raise £5000 in aid of the new hall.  To-day’s ceremony will be presided over by the Lord Mayor (Sir Robert Hampson) In the evening a public meeting will be held in the Philharmonic Hall, when the chair will be occupied by Mr R. W. Perks, M.P.  To-morrow (Thursday) there will be the very interesting children’s ceremony Donors of one guinea are entitled to lay a stone bearing their initials, and for five guineas stones may be laid containing family names.  Mrs W. W. Rutherford will present silver mementoes to contributors.