EVERTON AT HOME
Liverpool Echo - Friday 01 September 1905
Bee
What of Everton?  They seem extremely hopeful, and in having the rather weak opposition to set off against should not hold their opponents too lightly. Middlesbrough will not allow themselves to easily roll into the hole they did last season, and guided by the sharpshooter, Common, they will give out their very best work to rake in the points early on, and thus wind up the season with complacent minds, worries of being thrown into the lower division not being in their category. That is their idea. Everton’s must be different. They have a loyal and large crowd of supporters to please, and they cannot do better than burst off with determination and firmly root their minds on going a step nearer than a year ago in the championship honours. They have been thereabouts so often that it would only be their due reward were they to succeed this time. They were second in 1890, third in 1893, second in 1895, third in 1896, second in 1902, third in 1903, and second in 1904. Along with Woolwich and Manchester United they are the generally “just beaten by a head.” It is not generally known that Preston North End three years in succession were the runners-up. The great hope I have in mind at present is that Everton will not reserve their goals for the second half of the game. Against the men of iron last March they simply scraped through with the aid of a penalty goal. Such things should not be; the men should strive sternly throughout unless holding a lead of four goals. Rankin has his chance to shine, and so has R. Balmer, and it is everyone’s wish that they should have a fair trial. If either unfortunately fails, I hope the booing element will be charitable and postpone their demonstration till after the match. Given a fine day, there will be a tremendous crowd- and here’s luck to the home players for a sound win.
Among the Everton Reserves due at Accrington are Hill (Southampton), Hannan (Celtic), Wright (Sittingbourne), Platt (Celtic), Birnie (Kent), Oliver (Brentford), and Cook (Seacombe). On Monday the team (to be found on page 7) will appear at home to Liverpool in the Combination match; kick-off 5.30.
Page 7
Everton v Middlesbrough
League match at Goodison Park, kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Scott, goal; R Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Accrington Stanley v Everton Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Accrington; 3.30.
Everton.- Kelly, goal; Hill and Hannan, backs; Chadwick, Wright, and Black, half-backs; Birnie, McLoughlin, Oliver, Cooke, and Dilly, forwards.

FOOTBALL AND OTHER SPORTS
September 2, 1905 The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton are looking forward to a big crowd and a good win. Rankin has his chance, and so has R. Balmer, and it is everyone's wish that they should have a fair trial. Among the Everton Reserves due at Accrington are Hill (Southampton), Hannan (Celtic), Wright (Sittingbourne), Platt (Celtic), Birnie (Ke Thanks to Kjell Hanssen for this
nt), Oliver (Brentford), and Cook (Seacombe).

ACCRINGTON IN FORM.
Lancashire Evening Post-Saturday 2 September 1905
Hollow Victory over Everton Reserve.
From three o'clock the spectators commenced to roll up on Moorhead Park, and the time start was made the attendance reached 4.000 spectators. The ground was in splendid condition, except for one bare patch in the centre while various improvements had been made round the barriers for the benefit of the onlookers. Teams; Accrington Stanley; Turner, goal; Stevenson and Hampson, backs; Rigby, Bradshaw, and Brindle, half-backs; Smith, Dempley, F. Chatburn, Morris, and Scott, forwards. Everton Reserve; Kelly, goal; Hill and Hannon, backs; Chadwick, Wright, and Black, half-backs; Birnie, McLoughlin, Oliver, Cooke, and Hill, forwards. Referee; Mr. R. Wild, Bury. Stanley won the toss, and Bradshaw decided to play with the wind, but against the slope. The visitors looked the livelier lot. McLoughlin at once ran the ball out of play. After a very brief visit to the Everton terrority, McLaughlin again dashed forward and gave Turner a grounder, which he smartly picked up and landed into midfield. The pace was a scorcher, and from a free kick Davison landed the ball up to Stott who had a near shave with lively shot, which travelled across the goal. Morris was outpaced by Hill, but he struck to the ball even when he came a cropper, Stott afterwards shooting feebly. The venue was quickly changed, and Stevenson miskicked at the expense of an abortive corner, Stanley made tracks for the Everton fortress but a hugh kick by Hannon set the visiting forwards going in a body. Oliver shot rather weakly from eight yards' range, but Taylor's length came in useful and the ball went round the post. Bradshaw had a similar fate in front of the other goal, Kelly affecting a timely save. The Reds warmed to their work, Smith and Dempsey showing pretty combination. Brindle had hard lines with a terrific shot, which Hannan headed away but directly afterwards Chatburn got past Kelly with a daisy cutter 20 minutes after the start. Rousing cheers greeted this performance, but a few minutes later the homsters held their breath while McLoughlin dribbled down to Turner. The backs were yards away, but when the Evertonian was three yards off the custodian he evidently lost his head, for the ball went peacefully round the post. After this Turner was several times applauded for effective clearances. Bain descended heavily now, and threatened to spoil the game. The homesters had the best of matters and Smith caused Kelly to fist away a rasper. Oliver was winded, and then the game became much tamer. Chapman was in the way of a shot from Morris, but the greasy ball spoiled the play. A fine shot was put into the goal, but it was kicked away. Shortly afterwards Chatburn tipped the ball over the bar when he had Kelly at his mercy. Morris was applauded for a clever run on his own, and Dempsey after clever tackling missed his kick when straight in front of goal. The homesters pressed on the interval. Half-time-Accrington Stanley 1, Everton reserves 0. Not more than three minutes from the restart Stott got down the left, and tempted Killick to come out to meet him. He then gave to Morris, who found the net, Hill making a futile effort to save. A couple of minutes later Bradshaw shaved the goal post on the wrong side. Turner was again applauded, and at the other end Brindle was tripped in the penalty area, but the referee did not penalize the offender. Brindle was cheered for pulling up Birnie who went racing away, on his own, and Stevenson by a determined effort, got the ball down again into the Toffeemen's territory. The Reds got a fruitless corner, and Kelly misjudged a flying shot, which however, sailed outside, Stott forced another corner, and Hampson had a shot, but was yards wide. Everton pressed for a spell, and McLoughlin was facing the goal with only Turner to beat when he handled. The home forwards then got going at a good pace, and Dempsey sprinting ahead scored a third goal with a rasping diagonal shot, which grazed the underside of the crossbar. Turner was hard pressed about 10 minutes before the finish, but he kept his lines clear. Dempsey by a splendid effort, scored two goals in the last five minutes. The gate was $55. Result; Accrington Stanley 5, Everton Reserves 0.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Saturday 02 September 1905
Everton are looking forward to a big crowd and a good win. Rankin has his chance, and so has R. Balmer, and it is everyone’s wish that they should have a fair trial.
Among the Everton Reserve due at Accrington are Hill (Southampton), Hannan (Celtic), Wright (Sittingbourne), Platt (Celtic), Birnie (Kent), Oliver (Brentford), and Cook (Seacombe).
Everton v Middlesbrough
League match at Goodison Park, kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Scott, goal; R Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Accrington Stanley v Everton Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Accrington; 3.30.
Everton.- Kelly, goal; Hill and Hannan, backs; Chadwick, Wright, and Black, half-backs; Birnie, McLoughlin, Oliver, Cooke, and Dilly, forwards.

TOM BOOTH
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday September 2 1905
It is an interesting coincidence that the skippers of the Everton and Liverpool clubs are both centre half-backs, and no doubt their respective admirers are justified in claiming that they are the finest exponents of that arduous and responsible position. Tom Booth has captained the Everton team for some years now, and the club has flourished and always occupied honourable positions without reaching premier honours. Although Booth had a large show of bad luck last year, and which need not be enlarged upon, he is still young and vigorous and sure to distinguish himself in the future as much as in the past, when he gained international honours and was the darling of the crowd. Luckily for Everton, their captain’s suspension will terminate at the end of the present month, after which he will reoccupy his old position. It is specially worthy of mention that the gallant Everton captain is of English birth, and first came into prominence as a member of the Blackburn Rovers.
FOOTBALL CARDS
Liverpool football followers, by asking will be given a card which will be found useful throughout the season, as it contains the Everton and Liverpool Clubs’ fixtures and lasts season’s results and space is left for this season’s results to be filled in. Call at the “Echo” office, the Crosshall-street entrance, or nay of the local branch offices for your copy.

EVERTON v  MIDDLESBROUGH
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 02 September 1905
LEAGUE MATCH AT GOODISON PARK
YOUNG GETS THE FIRST GOAL FOR EVERTON
SETTLE ADDS A SECOND
The Blues commenced the League campaign at Goodison Park this afternoon, where they were deputed to entertain Middlesbrough. There was nothing in Everton’s initial task to cause them much anxiety, as not only did the Yorkshiremen perform ingloriously last season, but they have so far absolutely failed to score a goal at Merseyopolis although they have made three visits to Goodison Park. Just at the fag-end of last season Middlesbrough transferred Common from Sheffield United at a sensational fee, and the new man at once improved the status of the Yorkshire club. There have also been a trio of importations during the close season, and consequently it was anticipated the Ironfounders would put up a good “fite.” Since last season Everton have lost the services of Roose, and to-day R. Balmer defended in place of his brother. On the right wing Sharp was an absentee as the result of his cricket exertions, but Everton are fortunate in having a brillaint substitute in Rankin, who seems to improve at every appearance, and has a host of admirers. Mr. G.D. Ashworth superintended operations, and the players took the field as follows;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; R. Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Middlesbrough.- Williamson, goal; McCallum, and Agnew, backs; Aitken, Jones, and Davidson, half backs; Cassidy, Reid, Green, Common, and Hewitt, forwards.
Following this there was a great struggle in front of the Everton goal, but at last Crelly was lucky enough to clear. The visitors took another corner, but this caused the defending party no trouble, and Everton broke away smartly. A free kick helped them on, and Williamson saved from Settle as the referee sounded his whistle for an informality. After the free kick Cassidy made off, but was closely pressed and kicked out, and Green also failed to come down the centre. Then followed a free kick for the Blues, which Agnew cleared cleverly. After the free kick Cassidy made an effort, but was closely pressed, and kicked out, and Green was failed to come down the centre. Then followed a free kick for the Blues, which Agnew cleared cleverly McDermott had worked in a good opening, when he shoved McCallum, and spoiled the whole movement through being penalised. The Ironops made a brief move down their left when Jock possession, and had a long shot. Smart interchanges followed in midfield, and then Hardman sent in a lightning pass, which proved too swift for Settle. The Middlesbrough men made a raid on the right, but were troubled by Crelly, and then Everton became busy on the left. Hardman crossing finely, and McDermott and Rankin continuing the move but they failed to get anywhere near Williamson, Agnew proving too much for the attacking party. Hewitt got away and made a great run, at the end of which he had rather the better of Crelly, but Balmer came to his partner’s assistance, and the Everton lines were soon cleared. A bit of fine play by Taylor stopped a further rush by the visitors, Makepeace being also instrumental in checking the visitors on several occasions. A free kick for the Tykes left play in midfield, when Young took the leather cleverly and passed on to Rankin, who, however, was check-mated by Agnew. The Blues stuck to their work grimly and the Yorkshire warden had to respond to a warm couple from Taylor and Young. Williamson accounted for his shots very ably, but Everton were unlucky not to score, so close and persistent was the attack. Still, there was a lack of cohesion which was noticeable. The visitors made two batten attacks, and then Young sped down the centre, but on being pressed he passed to Settle, who lost the ball. A free kick was then given against Abbott, but this did not avail the visitors much, although a little later on Green returned and made a grand effort, with which Scott was lucky enough to deal successfully. Everton replied with a fine attack, at the end of which the three inside men were all in front of Williamson, and Young was rather unlucky in not scoring. A moment later the ball was placed over the Middlesbrough crossbar, and afterwards Everton kept up a persistent attack. This was a lucky escape indeed for Williamson, and only accentuated the hard lines from which the Blues were suffering. Settle received a pass sharply, and very expertly headed on to Young, who only just missed in turn heading into Williamson’s net. The visitors’ right now broke away, and exerted very keen pressure, during which Makepeace almost headed into his own net.  But he afterwards made amends by relieving the pressure. Up to this point the attacks of the Ironfounders were distinctly of a dangerous favour. Some ten minutes prior to the interval the ball was passed up to the home left, who hustled the Middlesbrough defence about and then passed to the centre, Young scoring a somewhat easy goal. The Evertonians were now going strongly, and a couple of minutes later Settle found an opening and registered a second point. During an attack on the Everton goal there was a bully in front of Scott, and from the ball came and struck the goalpost, then rebounded into play. A free kick was given against Everton, and Scott saved from Cassidy. Before half-time came the Everton goal had several narrow escapes.
Half-time score; Everton 2 goals Middlesbrough Nil
COMMON SCORES FOR THE VISITORS
RANKION SCORES A THIRD
SETTLE GOES STRONG
Young restarted, and the home players at once made their way to close quarters, when Settle slipped just as he was about to shoot for goal. Hardman followed up a centre of his own, and put the ball over the crossbar. Afterwards the visitors made two distinct attacks. The first one was spoiled by the ball being run over the line. The second was very cleverly checked by Crelly, and on a third occasion Green was threading his way through very smartly when he was brought to book by Balmer. The home forwards were now worming their way cleverly through the Tykes’ defence, but just at the critical moment, as McDermott put Young in possession within shooting distance, McCallum intercepted, and cleared smartly. The visitors’ right now took possession, and made a fine sweeping movement, Common dashing the ball clean through Crelly’s legs, and Scott only just cleared in time, for which he was heartily applauded by the crowd. Everton lost no time in taking up the attack again, and clever work on the line by Rankin led to Williamson conceding a corner, but it did not prove beneficial. Middlesbrough now took a turn at attack, and Cassidy sent in a pretty centre, but Scott proved smarter than Green, and ran out to effect a neat clearance. Twenty minutes after the restart Everton had worked themselves into a very favourable position, and the three inside men fairly puzzled the Middlesbrough defence, McCallum ultimately falling in tackling Settle, who swung round and defeated Williamson with a fine screw shot. Some five minutes later Commons scored for his side, this being the first score registered by Middlesbrough in Liverpool since their inclusion in the League. Rankin scored a goal from the centre by passing. Final;- Everton 4 goals, Middlesbrough 1 goal.

ACCRINGTON STANLEY v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday September 2 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV 1
Everton opened at Accrington against Stanley. The visitors included several new players. Stanley won the toss, and Oliver started, and went down with a nice passing movement. Then McLoughlin sent in a fast low shot, which Turner ably dealt with. Stott made a smart effort to get through, but his centre was fruitless. Everton forced a corner, but nothing resulted. The teams appeared splendidly matched. Dilly and Cooke were noticeable for a fine passing run, and from the former’s centre Oliver gained a corner.
Half-time.- Accrington 1, Everton nil.

EVERTON v. MIDDLESBROUGH.
Leeds Mercury - Monday 04 September 1905
There was a crowd of well over 20,000 spectators the opening game Goodison Park. Thanks to the admirable goal-keeping of Williamson, the visitors repelled some early attacks by Everton. Everton, however, asserted themselves in uncertain fashion, Young opening the scoring for them, and Settle putting on second point. Everton at once pressed when the players returned the field, Williamson having to save from Settle, and Young shooting just over the bar. A miskick by Crelly "afforded Common a splendid opportunity, but the latter player, with only the goal -Keeper to beat, sent his shot which Scott saved. Settle .increased the home team’s lead, and after Common had got through for Middlesbrough, Rankin, added a further point for Everton, who thus won by four goals one.

EVERTON OPEN STRONGLY
London Daily News - Monday 04 September 1905
In the opening match of the season at Goodison Park Everton defeated Middlesbrough by four goals to one. The visitors were full strength, but Everton were without W. Balmer and Sharp, their places being taken by R. Balmer and Rankin. At the start Everton attacked, and Williamson, the Middlesbrough goalkeeper, had to save quite early. Then Hewitt, of Middlesbrough, got clean away, but ended his effort with a bad shot. For the rest of the first half Everton pressed, and scored through Young and Settle. Vigorous play was seen on resuming, but for the most part Everton easily held their own. Once, however, Common had a fine opportunity of scoring after a mistake by Crelly, but he sent the ball straight at the goalkeeper. Settle and Rankin subsequently added further goals for Everton, and Common got through for Middlesbrough.

THE SAME STORY FOR MIDDLESBROUGH
Athletic News - Monday 4th September 1905
By Tityrus
Goodison Park has never been a lucky ground for Middlesbrough. They have never won a match on that enclosure. Indeed they have never garnered a single point. Until Saturday they had never even scored at the home of Everton. So when Common did notch a goal late in the second half the men from Tees-side broke a record, but with the least luck the Northern contingent would have had the stimulus of a point in the first half. But even so they could not have won, for the Everton eleven, even without William Balmer, who is not yet fit for football, and Sharp, who required a week’s rest after arduous cricket campaign, were so aggressive that they beat “Tim” Williamson four times.  Thus the Everton executive and their legion of followers were quite joyous as evening approached on Saturday. The defence of Middlesbrough was arranged on the same lines as when the team were last at Everton, but the forward line was entirely novel. About 20,000 people watched the game, admired the condition of the ground, and seemed very pleased with the extensive alterations which have been carried out since last season at considerable expanse.  The Middleborough men to jump into their game as soon as they heard the signal, little Hewitt, at outside right, threatening to be quite a stormy petrel, for he flitted o'er the ground and centred and shot in ominous fashion. The visitors were so aggressive that they forced comer-kicks from Abbott and Makepeace. Once they drew Scott out of his goal. But the wearers of the red jersey were gradually forced back, and evidently Everton had a word to say, but time after time when the home players threatened to become really dangerous their plans went awry, chiefly because they could not keep the ball well under control. Once Settle, sturdy and skillful, kept Aitken at bay, while Hardman ran round McCullum and screwed right across the mouth of the goal. The ball just went wide of the far post. This was undoubtedly the best effort, although Young once lofted over the bar. Again Common and Hewitt boded trouble and it was as well that Makepeace intervened when the outside right’s centre dropped before Cassidy and Reid. Abbott at length gave Hardman an opening. M'Callum was at fault, and Hardman buzzed past him very neatly. As he looked Like being hampered Hardman tapped the ball along a straight line Young, who scored, and so Everton were a goal up at the end of 36 minutes. Two minutes later Young, by an admirable bit of work, placed Settle in possession, and the inside left took the liberty of scoring. The Tees-siders were in no way distressed, and Cassidy crowned some strenuous work on the wing by a very fine shot, He had little room and hardly any angle, the leather passing off Common’s head and coming into contact with the foot of a goal post, whence it rebounded into play. Following a free kick against Taylor, Abe Jones plied Cassidy, whose effort passed along the front of goal, and Scott jumping up handed out to the wings. Green gave Hewitt the ball, and the latter middled so nicely that I thought Reid would score. But he found himself in front of the ball, and Makepeace gave a corner kick, which was non-productive. So Everton led at the interval by a couple of goals. Early in the second half it looked as If Middlesbrough were certain to score, for Common took the ball from Crelley’s toe and, with da clear course, sailed away for goal. There was only Scott in front of him, but the Irishman contrived to dart out his right hand and turn Common’s parting shot wide at the expense of corner. Crelley rushed up and shook Scott heartily by the hand. The compliment was deserved. For a long time Everton exerted the more pressure, although the visitors occasionally asserted themselves, particularly in one prolonged bout of heading. But twenty-five minutes after crossing over the combination of Makepeace and Abbott afforded Settle an opportunity, and with a well-placed ball he gave his club a third goal. Still Middlesbrough persevered, and Common took a surprise shot from a considerable range, but the pace on the ball was just too fast for Scott, who fell full length. But the leather went under his arms. He was too late! Thus did Middlesbrough score their first goal at Everton!  But Scott was not the only custodian who was taken unawares.  The Evertonians attacked by the left, and from right near the corner-flag, when it seemed odds on the ball going over the goal line, Hardman made a wonderful centre.  Really I did not think that Williamson expected such a visitor.  He dashed out, and jumping up merely turned the shot aside to Rankin, who hooked the ball into an untenanted goal.  Scott had the opportunity of distinguishing himself on one or two occasions in the last quarter of an hour, especially in parrying a ball from Jones- but in the end Everton won by four goals to one.  I cannot say that the game was a thrilling, pulse-stirring battle.  It was just an ordinary League match, sternly fought at a strong place.  If we did not see brilliant football, we consoled ourselves with the refection that there was plenty of time before April-and that players had hardly become accustomed to their boots.  The form was typical of last season, and Everton seem as difficult to master on their own ground as ever.  But the players were so many units; not a team endowed with perfect understanding.  In other words there was more individual effort than collective merit, and when we did see a little combination we were all Oliver Twists asking for more.  But, as I say, there is time.  Scott kept goal in a style that augurs well.  Now that Roose has gone he will rise to his responsibility.  This will be heavy, not merely because the Welshman has returned to his old love, but because the backs betrayed hesitation and were apt to balloon the ball too much.  Indeed, this was a fault were all plodders and never beaten, the most conspicuous of the three being Abbott, Settle and Young were clever on the ball, and that near goal, which is a happy omen, but McDermott was inclined to dalliance when within the shooting zone.  When Hardman had his chances he made the most of them – but there were times when he was not too well plied-there being a tendency to try an inside game.  In goal Williamson did not show to such advantage as I have seen him.  May he had not any sensational shots to fly at.  The Everton forwards placed beyond his reach.  The backs are fearless and strong kickers, but did not strike me as resourceful.  The middle line was fairly reliable, Jones being the most galliant in defence.  But they kept the ball too much in the air, and do not push it on the ground to their forwards as high-class artists should.  Mediocrity is the word which best describes the front line.  Most initiative was shown by Common, the best man on his side, and next to him I should place Joe Cassidy, who does not yet lag superfluous.  Hewitt started in surprising fashion, but could not maintain the standard he set.  Reid struck me as lacking in speed and finesse, and Green wants coaching.  The game was splendidly referred by a little man called D.G. Ashworth, who rolls up the cuffs of his sleeves, wades into the battle, and keeps a grip on the players.  I do not think I have come across Ashworth before, but if he is the kind of referee the Lancashire Combination can train and turn out, we want more.  I hope Mr. Ashworth will not see these remarks, and if he does that he will still wear the same size of hat when he takes his walks abroad.  He disdains even a cap when officiating.  Everton; Scott; Balmer (R.), Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Middlesbrough; Williamson; McCallum, Agnew; Aitkens, Jones, Davidson; Hewitt, Common, Green, Reid and Cassidy.  Referee; D.G. Ashworth, Rossendale. 

EVERTON 4 MIDDLESBROUGH 1
September 4, 1905. The Liverpool Courier.
FINE FORWARD PLAY.
Everton opened the season in a matter, which, delighted their supporters. True, Middlesbrough are not one of the strongest teams in the League, but still a victory by four goals to one over any club in the charmed circle is a performance which is districtly gratifying. The weather during the match was fine, there was a big crowd- 25,000 at least- and the ground itself was in really wonderful conditions. All these considerations coupled with the fact that the Everton sharp shooters were in a happy vein, rendered the opening of another season of strenuous football of the most agreeable description.
INCIDENTS OF THE GAME.
It was not their full team, which Everton placed in field. Tom Booth, the captain, was perforce an absentee in view of the Football Association's decision. Then L.R.Roose, the brilliant goalkeeper has cast in his lot with his old club (Stoke). Sharp was having a rest after an arduous and successful season's cricket, and W.Balmer was on the sick list. Thus we had Scott, in goal, Rankin at outside tight, and R.Balmer at right back. Under the circumstances Everton's pronounced victory is all the more creditable. Still it not gained without a keen struggle. In fact, from the determined manner in which the Middlesbrough men started, it looked as if they meant to gain their first League point of the city. Fully half an hour's play had pass before Everton's attack met with an success. To Young fell the honour of registered the first goal at Goodison-park in the season 1905-06, and within another couple of minutes Settle very cleverly steered the ball past the alert custodian, Williamson. Two goals to nothing at half-time placed the crowd in a rare good humour. But there was more to follow, Settle, who never failed to seize an opportunity, put on a third goal, and then somewhat unexpectedly, Common, after missing several times by merest margin sent in a long shot that quite compared with the best efforts on the Everton side. This, singularly enough, is the first goal, which Middlesbrough have obtained in this city. It looked, too, just about this period as if the visiting side would be rewarded with another goal, but when Hardman raced down and placed the ball beautifully across the goalmouth, with the result that Rankin took full advantage of his chance. Middlesbrough's prospects had vanished. Thus it was that Everton won by four goals to one.
MIDDLESBROUGH BAD LUCK.
On the actual run of the game, not even the most blassed followers could suggest that such a wide margin as the score indicates represented the difference in merit of the two sides. There were occasions when the Everton backs were hopelessly beaten, and the slightest luck might have enabled Middlesbrough to secure the first goal, which, as everyone knows, is a great incentive to a side. Once Cassidy had the bad fortune, when Scott had no chance of saving his charge, to bang the ball against the upright off which it rebounded into play. Common, too, was equally unlucky on at least two occasions missing by the merest shave. As a matter of fact, had there been any weakness displayed in goal the question of superiority might have been an open one.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS.
Scott, on his play, quite demonstrated that the club need look no further for a capital and resourceful custodian. The shots he had to deal with were varled, but high and low were disposed of with consummate east, and the Irish International's display must be written down as a great success. The backs R.Balmer and Crelly were occasionally unsteady, especially in the earlier stages, when the Middlesbrough forwards were seen at their best, they improved later on, but at the same time the old Everton standard of back play was by no means attained. Taylor, Abbott and Makepeace were more conspicuous by reason of sound hard work than by anything approaching brilliance. Still little exception could be taken to their all-round display, and there were occasions when several movements between them and the forwards quite reminded one of their best achievements last season. The forwards as a line were a district success. Young controlled his wings with skill, and when making for goal his methods were quite of the best. He was unfortunately well shadowed, but it is questionable if this paid the visiting sides, for the artful Settle anticipated almost every movement in this direction, and demonstrated to a nicety that he has lost none of his old dexterity. The wing men did what came their way in satisfactory fashion. As for Middlesbrough, the team as a whole did not shape badly, and when they have settled down is likely to prove a formidable lot. Common in the same hard grafter of old, and it will require a watchful half to keep this enterprising forward in check. Teams: - Everton: - Scott goal, R.Balmer and Crelly backs, Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Rankin, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Middlesbrough: - Williamson goal, McCallanm, Agnew, backs, Aitkens, Jones, and Davidson half-backs, Cassidy Reid, Green, Common, and Hewitt forwards. Referee G.D.Ashworth.

ACCRINGTON STANLEY 5 EVERTON RESERVES 0
September 4, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One. (Game 1)
The Everton reserves team have commenced the season in very disappointing fashion. Accrington Stanley, their opponents on Saturday, are a very difficult side to beat on their own ground, but in view, of the form shown by the Goodison-park team in the practice matches, it was hoped that they, would at least hold their own in their opening game. As a matter of fact, they never looked like making even a draw, and the East Lancashire side had the satisfaction of winning by the big margin of five goals to nothing. All through Everton were disappointing, and they never seemed to settle down. The bustling tactics of the opposition gave them few opportunities for combination and most of their attacks were the result of individual efforts. Stanley showed fine football, and were not long in taking the lead as the result of weak defence on the part of the visitors. Soon afterwards McLoughlin dribbled close to the home goal only to send the ball wide, and afterwards the Blues got few changes. Accrington on the other hand, played with confidence, and added four more goals. Everton falling to respond. The Goodison park team will have to show considerable improvement if they are to defeat their Anfield rivals to-day. Everton: -. Kelly goal, P.Hill, and J.Hannan, backs, Chadwick, J Wright, and W.Black, half-backs Bernie, McLioughlin, Oliver, Cooke, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON’S VICTORY
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Monday 4 September 1905
Everton opened their League campaign auspiciously at Goodison Park, when they trounced Middlesbrough by 4 goals to 1. The elder Balmer and Sharp did not turn out, and Scott was “the warden of the breach.” In the forenoon it looked as if the game would be contested under the most depressing conditions, as it was still raining, after coming down relentlessly during the night. But Jupiter Pluvius behaved decently at the finish, though the ground was terribly heavy and holding. On previous form the Ironfounders did not look dangerous opponents, but a man of Common’s personality may perform wonders in stimulating the others. And so it proved. From Green’s initial move Common commenced an extremely subtle attack, which was cleverly developed by Hewitt, who was to further distinguished himself. In the centre Green failed utterly to keep in touch with his wing, though he had a golden opportunity and Hewitt had perforce to let drive at Scott. It was a startling opening, and, indeed, with a little more luck the “Ironops” might have scored. The crowd breathed more freely when Yorkshire territory was invaded and Sandy Young tested the visiting warden with a smart low drive. This was but an early sample of an extremely clever exhibition of footwork to which the Everton centre afterwards treated the onlookers. The dangerous initial move of the Tykes was by no means a flash in the pan, as both their wings were responsible for numerous speedy and spirted movements which proved too much for the Everton halves. Green was very tardy in assisting his wings and the fruits of their good work was more often than not nullified. For some time the efforts of the Everton front rank were little superior to those of their opponents. There was even an absentee of method, and plenty of ragged passing so that McCallum and Agnew frustrated every attempt to draw them out of position. After thirty minutes’ finessing on both sides the Everton quintet had improved their combination immensely, though Hardman seemed “odd man out.” Settle, Young, and McDermott proved an incomprehensible trio to the Middlesbrough halves. Their footwork was a marvel of intricacy and dexterity, and the understanding between them worked with the precision of fine mechanism. One subtle move after another bewildered McCallum and Agnew, and kept Williamson on tenterhooks. At last hardman brought about the inevitable, after receiving a pass from Settle, who had been the mainspring of every advance. Young received Hardman’s centre, and a second later Williamson received his quetus. The tension was eased somewhat after Everton’s success as the Tykes had been very active and Scott had all his work cut out to respond successfully to well-directed shots from Common and Hewitt. The feeble efforts of Green were, however, in painful contrast to the masterly tactics of Young. Hardly had the excitement of the score died down when the Everton front came away in line, operating with splendid harmony. Deft worked enticed Williamson’s defenders forward, and then Young passed back to Settle, Williamson making a fruitless effort to keep out the little man’s terrific shot. When the spectators saw that second goal they knew victory was to the Blues. Not only that, but future victories loomed large on the horizon of their imagination. Such superlative cleverness in attack could only be neutralised by more clever defence. And where is the defence that can withstand Everton’s bewildering attack? Last season showed it to be well nigh irresistible. What a team would Everton be if the defence were equal to the attack!
It was an intensely interesting fifteen minutes which closed the first half. Although in the second half Everton clearly demonstrated their superiority, interest was maintained by the eagerness and pertinacity of the visitors. Beaten they were, clearly, but bent on scoring somehow or other. Some of their shots in the first half were quite good enough to score, but they could not bring any combined effort to an effective finish. This seemed the great weakness of the forward line, which has three real good men in Common, Hewitt, and Cassidy. McCallum and Agnew should make effectual resistance against less classy forwards than the Goodison Park quintet. The Middlesbrough halves were a mediocre lot. Both sides made great efforts to score in the first fifteen minutes of the second half, but the home attack was much more stylish and finished. Common and Cassidy gave Scott plenty of opportunity of displaying his quality before Settle notched the third goal. Three goals up by no means represented the true balance of play, and when Common scored in unexpected fashion his success was impartially cheered. This goal broke a singular spell of bad luck which has hitherto attended the Yorkshiremen’s visitors to Liverpool, as they have never even scored in the past. Everton’s future success will depend greatly on the defence, and though Crelly and R. Balmer both gave creditable exhibitions, they indulged in periods of laxity. Thus though Common shot from eighteen yards he was not interfered with. R. Balmer gave a stylish display and appears to have quite left the novitiate stage behind. He was wonderfully cool under pressure, and on several occasions showed commendable resource in extricating Crelly from difficulty. Crelly, too, was in excellent form, and it is regrettable that such sound ability should be marred occasionally by a tendency of both backs to rest on their laurels. A contemplative mood is no advantage to a full back. Rankin fully justified his inclusion in the font rank. His fourth goal was very appropriate, and cleverly executed. Although Middlesbrough attack was not very deadly or of a high class, Everton’s defence came through the ordeal with credit. What the Tykes lacked in style and cleverness they made up for in ceaseless activity and pertinacity. Scott had plenty of work to do, several shots being extremely difficult, and he was luck, perhaps to have only one goal registered against him. Of the Everton half backs nothing but praise must be given though Abbott could hardly be expected to show to advantage against such stalwarts as Common and Hewitt. Taylor worried the Ironops’ front unceasingly, and Makepeace was particularly clever and effective. In fact, the half-back play was worthy of the best traditions of the club.

EVERTON RESERVES 7 LIVERPOOL RESERVES 2
September 5, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 2)
LIVERPOOL PLAYERS INJURED.
This interesting Combination fixture was decided on the Goodison-park enclosure last evening. Everton made two changes in the team which fared so disastrously at Accrington on Saturday, Scott replacing Kelly, in goal and Rankin supplanting Cooke at inside left; whilst Liverpool relied upon the team that defeated Manchester United. The ground was in splendid conditions, and beautiful weather prevailed. There was an excellent attendance at the start, numbering about 8,000 spectators. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, Hill, and Hannan, backs, Chadwick, Wright, and Black, half-backs, Birnie, McLoughlin, Oliver Rankin, and Dilly forwards. Liverpool: - Hardy, goal, Wilson, and Murray, backs, Robinson, Latham, and James Hughes, half-back, Dudley, Gilberton, Carlin, Hewitt, and Garside, forwards. The Visitors were successful in the toss, and Oliver set the ball in motion. The Evertonians immediately assumed the aggressive, their forwards showing excellent dash, and operations were taken near the Liverpoolians goal. Dilly ran to obtain possession, and Hardy left his charge to clear, but tripped, Dilly then passed to McLoughlin, who with an open goal in front of him, easily registered the first goal. Hardy, who had evidently been badly hurt, retired, and Wilson took his position between the uprights. The game was resumed after a few minutes, and Liverpool, though handicapped by hardy's absence, did not resort to one back tactics. Garside and Hewitt got away on the left, making excellent progress, Scott, however, came out and put the ball out of danger. Chadwick securing a fine passing bout ensued among the home halves, who then gave to their right wing, Bernie being conspicuous. The latter passed right over to Dilly, who called upon Wilson who effected a good save. After this Liverpool commenced an incursion into their opponents territory. Dudley racing away and getting past Black and passing to Gilbertson, who succored the leather in an excellent position beating Scott with a fine effort, thus equalising. The Blues made a determined effort to obtain the lead again, but Murray effected some good clearance, and Wilson safely encountered shots from Ranlin and Oliver. Liverpool played up finely, and operations were again taken near Scott's charge, but Hill relieved the pressure. Hardy, who was greatly cheered appeared on the field, limping, and resumed his position in goal. After painfully limping out to secure the ball, throwing it over to Murray, he again left the field, Wilson once more going in goal. A minute later Dilly sent in a long swift shot, which Wilson dealt with effectively. Murray concerned a corner, which was immediately followed by another. This was splendidly taken, Wright securing the ball, and striking the corner of the upright with great force. The ball rebounded into play and after an exciting scrimmage in the goalmouth Wilson threw the leather out to Latham. Liverpool endeavoured to get away again, but another disaster overtook than Carlin tripping and having to retire. Reduced to nine the visitors were forced to adopt one back tactics. Notwithstanding their disadvantages, the Reds gave a good exhibition. They played four forwards, who acquitted themselves admirably. Garside after a fine run endeavored to centred to Gilbertson, Scott, running out, however, intercepted and averted the danger. The Liverpoolian citadel was again subjected to pressure, but Murray changed the venue with a fine clearance. Dudley and Gilbertson got away nicely, and succeeded in approaching the home goal, where during an exciting struggle Scott was floored just outside the penalty area. The game continued to be spiritedly contested to the interval, which arrived with the score Everton 1 goal, Liverpool 1. Liverpool resumed with only nine men. A foul against Everton gave the visitors an opportunity of approaching the home goal, but nothing accured. The Blues got going again, and their forwards admirably supported by an excellent half-back line. Once more assumed the offensive, Bernie finishing a fine movement by netting the ball. Immediately afterwards McLoughlin further increased the home majority. Liverpool despite their difficulties, and reverses struggled gamely. They were kept on the defensive for a time, but an opportunity eventually occurred, Garside and Latham getting away, Wright failed to stop the latter, who sent in a fine shot Scott just reaching it. A little later the Reds again had hard lines. An admirable effort by Garside was charged down, and after a scrimmage near the goalline, the Everton custodian cleared. Everton now began to practically monopolise play, and Rankin was responsible for another goal. Wilson was kept busy in saving from the home forwards, McLoughlin, Oliver and Bernie shooting well. He did verily well considering the weakness of the visiting defence. Oliver registered a fifth goal for the homesters, and Bernie a sixth. The Blues efforts now relaxed considerably, and Hewitt succeeded in defeating Scott. This reverse had a stimulating effects on the Evertonians, who again began to press, and Oliver was responsible for the last goal of the match, which terminated – Everton 7, goals, Liverpool 2.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV 1
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Tuesday 05 September 1905
EVERTON RESERVE v  LIVERPOOL RESERVE
The meeting of the Combination teams of our premier football clubs is nowadays taken very seriously by the respective partisans of the Reds and Blues. Last evening 7,000 spectators lined the Goodison Park enclosure to witness the prowess of the reservists. Everton’s contingent was composed of Scott, Hill, Hannah, Chadwick, Wright, Black, Birnie, McLoughlin, Oliver, Rankin, and Dilly; and Liverpool’s, Hardy, Wilson, Murray, Robinson, Latham, Hughes, Dudley, Gilbertson, Carlin, Hewitt, and Garside.
The Blues opened with a spirited advance, and obtained a footing in Liverpool territory, where Dilly pressed hard, and Hardy forsook his charge only to be smartly outwitted, and McLoughlin netted in an undefended goal. The Everton men continued to exert pressure, Rankin and Dilly both failing to augment the score. Hardy had to retire with an injured leg, and Wilson became “warden of the breach.” The Reds exerted themselves vigorously to equalise, and a pretty movement by the left wing forced an opening for Gilbertson, who found the net without any hesitation. Just before the interval Everton forced three successive corners, from which Dudley and Carlin vainly attempted to stop the leather. Carlin had now to take leave of absence with an injured foot, and the Anfielders continued the game with nine men in a spirited manner until half-time, without any further addition to the score. When the teams reappeared Liverpool had only nine men, but this disadvantage seemed only to stimulate them, and they attacked vigorously. The home defence stood the attack well, and they then set to work in business-like fashion to gain a lead. The attack was carried well home, and Birnie placed under the bar well beyond Wilson’s reach. Resuming, the Blues dashed off in line, and within a minute Wilson was beaten once more by McLoughlin. The remnant of Liverpool did not despair, but strove desperately to retrieve the fortunes of war. Dudley and Carlin had hard lines with splendid drives. Wilson was again hotly assailed, and after three narrow escapes he was left uncovered by his backs, and Rankin slipped through, and scored the fourth goal. The pace and sustained pressure had told on the Liverpool men severely, and their play became more and more reckless and disjointed; even the one-back game availed them little, and Oliver and Birnie each succeeded in putting the leather past Wilson, who vacated the citadel in disgust. The desperate efforts of the Liverpool forwards were at last rewarded, as after Scott had saved smartly from Dudley. Hewitt dashed in and netted cleverly. The Reds fought stubbornly to the close, but Oliver managed to added another for Everton.
Result; Everton 7 goals, Liverpool 2.

LIVERPOOL CLUB’S CONTINUED LKUCKLESSNESS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 05 September 1905
Bee
There is no end to the Liverpool Club’s misfortunes. The old maxim tells us “it never rains but what it pours,” and the Anfield directors are, unfortunately, having it demonstrated in a terrible way. Their injured list roads;- Parkinson (broken), Dunlop, Robinson, Hardy and Carlin (injuries to legs). The last two came about last night- both pure accidents-through collision with Everton men in the always attractive Combination fixture. Hardy ran out to clear his lines, and crashed into an opposing forward, and had only been able to play a few minutes. He returned to his post in the second half, and had only been able to make one save ere he was forced to retire. This was a bad blow to the ‘Politans, who had given their Blues friends a rare time of it. When Carlin kicked the ball simultaneously with another player his ankle seemed to go, and he was carried off. The big Goodison crowd gave the depleted side much encouragement, and had not Hill, the light-haired Southampton man, been in real Spencerian form Scott would have had more than two goals recorded against him. Wilson took upon himself the position of custodian, and right well did he acquit himself, even though one point came about through his jumping up to a high ball, which hit the crossbar, bounced against the back of his hand, and went into the net. Murray was alone at back, and could be pardoned for ballooning repeatedly, for he had a very hot time. Then at half Lathom, a whole-hearted and capable player, was the best, and one follows his movements with interest. The right half was to the fore also, and among the forwards Dudley was of the best value. His partner Gilbertson, with more robustness would come on a deal. As it was, he showed a sound idea of knowing idea of knowing where lay the posts, beating Scott, who performed skilfully, even though his head was tramped on once. I have never before witnessed such splendid determination on the part of nine men against odds, and they deserved special eulogy. The most pointed failure of the winning side was Rankin. Operating at inside left, he scored a goal, and that was the only work he did well. His limping walk is due to a corn under his foot. That fiend must have been giving him pain; at any rate we will charitably put his failure down to that cause. Dilly was little better; but I congratulate the directors on their smart foresight in signing Hill (the back), who promises to prove “class” in time, as he had the sensible rule implanted in his mind that ‘tis of far greater worth to his side to pass the ball to a half or forward than aimlessly boot the ball to the opposing back’s toes. Hannan was pretty fair, and Black, the left half, can be safely trusted to fill Abbott’s place if needed. Birnie, even allowing that he had weak opposition to contend with, was in rattling form, and with McLoughlin, who seems in for a good season (McDermott please note), formed the best wing on the field. Oliver marred a good display by two unpardonable misses.
Goal-scorers for the winners; McLoughlin 2, Birnie 2, Oliver 2, Rankin 1. Although the match was sternly fought and most interesting to watch, some draughtboard-like combination of the Blues was nothing short of admirable.

SHARP AND W. BALMER IN EVERTON TEAM
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 07 September 1905
Bee
It will be with mixed feelings that Everton journey to Preston to play the North End on Saturday, for they meet an apparently good side, the North End having done well at the opening test and better at the second hurdle. Certainly they will enter the arena with every hope that is good, because the eleven to do duty will be that which did duty throughout almost all last season with every credit. Sharp and W. Balmer have been winding up their physical fragments, and will toe the mark in the pink of condition. These are the only changes from last week’s victorious crew.
From letters and postcards which reach me I am led to think that there is a vast amount of mystery huddled in the minds of Everton with regard to L.R. Roose leaving them. There is nothing mysterious about it at all, and Roose left the club on the best of terms, and has since expressed the hope that the Blues may win all along the line-until they meet Stoke! Roose is a medical student, and, living in London, he would have to set out every other Friday morning for Liverpool at an early hour, and return to the capital in the wee, small hours of the morning. Then when Everton were engaged on foreign soil it sometimes caused him to travel overnight. As at present, he can always get a convenient train to and from Stoke, in addition to which it must be remembered that Stoke is really his home.

L.R.ROOSE
September 8, 1905. The Liverpool Daily Post
There is a vast amount of mystery buddle in the minds of Everton with regard to L.R. Roose leaving them. There is nothing mysterious about it at all, and Roose left the club on the best of terms, and has since expressed the hope that the Blues may win all along the line –until they meet Stoke. Roose is a medical student and, living in London, he would have to set out every other Friday morning for Liverpool at an early hour, and return to the capital in the wee, small hours of the morning. Then when Everton were engaged on foreign soil it sometimes caused him to travel overnight. As at present he can always get a convenient train to and from Stoke in addition to which is must be remembered that Stoke is really his home.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Friday 08 September 1905
Everton journey to Preston to play the North End tomorrow. Certainly they will enter the arena with every hope that is good, because the eleven to do duty will be that which did duty throughout almost all last season with every credit. Sharp and W. Balmer have been winding up their physical fragments, and will toe the mark in the pink of condition. These are the only changes from last week’s victorious crew. There is a vast amount of mystery huddled in the minds of Everton with regard to L.R. Roose leaving them. There is nothing mysterious about it at all, and Roose left the club on the best of terms, and has since expressed the hope that the Blues may win all along the line-until they meet Stoke! Roose is a medical student, and, living in London, he would have to set out every other Friday morning for Liverpool at an early hour, and return to the capital in the wee, small hours of the morning. Then when Everton were engaged on foreign soil it sometimes caused him to travel overnight. As at present, he can always get a convenient train to and from Stoke, in addition to which it must be remembered that Stoke is really his home.

PRESTON NORTH END 1 EVERTON 1
September 9, 1905. The Liverpool Football Echo
The Evertonians played their first away match of the season by travelling to Preston to-day, in order to meet Preston North End on the famous Deepdale enclosure. The popular Liverpool organisation started the season so auspiciously on Saturday last, when they vanquished Middlesbrough very easily, that their performance against Preston was anticipated with more than ordinary interest, and in spite of wretched elemental conditions a large company of the club supporters travelled with the team to Preston. The weather on arrival was worse than ever, the rain falling with pitiless persistency, and the ground of the home club, if not pretty well swamped, was distinctly on the soft side. There were three changes in the Everton ranks from last week. Sharp having concluded his cricketing engagements, took his place at outside right, and Rankin was of course relieved. Settle owing to a chill, was unable to turn out, and his position was filled by McLoughlin, while W.Balmer come into the team in place of his brother Robert. The home side were at full strength, and despite the downpour, there was a capital crowd present when the teams lined out as follows: - Everton: - Scott, goal W.Balmer and Crelly, back, Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and Hardman, forwards. Preston North End: - McBride, goal, Derbyshire, and Rodway, backs, McLean, Hunter, and Lyon, half-backs, Bond, Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Lockett, forwards. Referee J.H.Smith. No more striking tribute to the popularity of the game could be found than the fact that fully 8,000 spectators, most of than unshethered were present when the rivals captains toss for choice of ends. Even those who occupied seats on the covered stands were not immune, and the Pressmen had to write their reports in a box, which might well have passed for a shower bath. Jack Taylor won the toss, and the home side started towards the town road. After the opening exchanges the Evertonians moved down smartly, and McLoughlin put in a long shot, which McBride had little difficulty in dealing with. The visitors continued to press, but a foul against Abbott let the home side in, and a dash down by the forwards ended in Smith shooting wide. Following upon this their was a spell of give and take play, both sets of forwards attacking in turn, and if not over scientific, the football was certainly most exciting. Smart work took place in midfield. Bond got possession, and running down, finished with a shot, which Scott dashed. The home side continued to face the pace, but the rain and wind were beating in their faces, and it was due to this that their shooting lacked string. On one occasion a pretty concerted movement took the leather to within a few yards of the Everton goal, and Wilson ought to have scored, when he shot over the bar. The Climatic conditions soon began to tell on the efforts of the homesters, and Everton taking the fullest advantage of the rain being at their backs, put on double pressure. Sharp ran down in his most characteristic way, and finished by putting in a beautiful oblique shot, which went across the goalmouth. Good work by Taylor gave the Everton forwards possession again and Young had a long shot at McBride's charge, but without success. All the time it was pouring in torrents, but not even this could damp the ardour of the crowd, and there was a tremendous enthusiasm when the North Enders bagan a series of systematic bombardment on the Everton goal. Twice Smith and Brown looked dangerous and it was the dash and vigour of Balmer that kept them at bay. In spite of this, however, the home front line kept pegging away, and the Everton half-backs were beaten time after time. An especially good move on the part of the three inside men ended in tremendous struggle in the goalmouth, and Brown came within an ace of scoring, but Scott just managed to throw clear. The Prestonians were not to be denied, however, and their efforts were at length rewarded, for as the result of an exceptionally clever combined movement the ball was sent across to Bond, who shot in, and the leather striking the inside of the crossbar entered the net. This success naturally infused new life into the players, and spectators a like, and they forgot their drenched conditions in anticipation of a victory. The visitors, however, were not to be overawed, and for a long time they kept the home defence busy. The work of the forwards was ragged, and both Sharp and McDermott managed to miss opportunities although showing anything like their form and cleverness, the Evertonians displayed strong resistance and the home goal was consistently in jeopardy. Makepeace who was playing a sound game, was especially promising, and on one occasion, and as a result of his efforts, a corner was forced. This was cleared by the Preston defenders, but the Evertonians still lingered on the vicinity of McBride charge and Sharp had the ball at his feet, and a fine chance of scoring when he shot yards wide. The game continued to be a ding-dong description, and it was really remarkable to note the cleverness with which the players raced along the heavy saturated turf. Accuracy of aim was, of course out of the question, and though both sets of forwards pressed in turn their final shots went woefully wide of the mark. A rather long spoil of attack on the part of North End was relieved by a free kick in favour of Everton and from this Rodway put the ball nicely forward, but it was so slippery that brown in trying to score, sent it skidding yards away. Following upon this there was an electrical sprint down the wing on the part of sharp, but it ended in a rather wild and aimless shot. Just before half time, the downpour became torrential, and the light was so bad that it was impossible to follow the finer points of the game. It was indeed an absolute farce to continue the match under such conditions and yet the players kept up the pace as merrily as ever, and though most of those present were by this time absolutely drenched there was no suggestion of stopping. As the interval approached the home forwards put on a great spurt, and Bond nearly added a second goal, but Crelly cleared, and at half-time the score read-Preston North End 1, goal, Everton nil. During the interval the weather cleared slightly, but the conditions were still distinctly uncomfortable. When play was resumed the players it was noticed had made a complete change of clothing and in this they were far more fortunate than the bulk of the spectators. The ground had been reduced to a veritable quagmire, and the suggestion of really first class football being shown was quite out of the question. The home side were the first to advance, but they floundered badly, and Brown missed the ball altogether when he was in a good position. The visitors took up the attack, and Young was prominent with a clever run through, but he failed at a critical moment. After this the North Enders pressed strongly, than followed a long period of midfield play. A mistake by Lockett gave the Everton forwards a openings, but the ball stuck in the mud and the danger was cleared. Good play was impossible with the ground a perfect puddles. Sharp beat Rodway in clever style, and swung in a lovely centre, which Hunter headed behind. Bond after beating Abbott shot straight at Scoot who cleared. Hardman raced away, and after a series of scrimmages the ball came out to Taylor who shot into a ruck of players, the ball passing through off Derbyshire's foot. On the call of time Scott cleared a flying shot by Lockett in beautiful style, Result Preston North End 1 goal, Everton 1.

TEAM ARRANGEMENTS FOR THIS DAY
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Saturday 09 September 1905
Everton v Preston North End.
League match at Preston; 3.30
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Rankin, and Hardman, forwards.
North End.- McBride, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Hunter, and Lyon, half-backs; Bond, Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Lockett, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Preston North End Reserve
Lancashire Combination match at Goodison Park; kick-off 3.30
Everton.- A.J. Kelly, goal; Hill and Hannan, backs; Chadwick, Wright, and Black, half-backs; Birnie, McLoughlin, Oliver, Cooke, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON v  PRESTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 09 September 1905
The Evertonians played their first away match of the season by travelling to Preston to-day, in order to meet Preston North End on the famous Deepdale enclosure. The popular Liverpool organisation started the season so auspiciously on Saturday last, when they vanquished Middlesbro’ very easily, that their performance against Preston was anticipated with more than ordinary interest and in spite of wretched elemental conditions a large company of the club supporters travelled with the team to Preston. The weather on arrival was worse than ever, the rain falling with pitiless persistency, and the ground of the home club, if not pretty well swamped, was distinctly on the soft side. There were three changes in the Everton ranks from last week. Sharp, having concluded his cricketing engagements, took his place at outside right, and Rankin was, of course, relieved. Settle, owing to a chill, was unable to turn out, and his position was filled by McLoughlin, while W. Balmer came into the team in place of his brother Robert. The home side were at full strength, and, despite the downpour, there was a capital crowd present when the team lined out as follow;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and Hutchinson, forwards.
Preston North End.- McBride, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Hunter, and Lyon, half-backs; Bond, Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Lockett, forwards.
Referee. J.H. Smith, of Doncaster.
No more striking tribute to the popularity of the game could be found than the fact that fully 8,000 spectators, most of them unsheltered, were present when the rival captains tossed for choice of ends. Even those who occupied seats on the covered stand were not immune and the Pressmen had to write their reports in a box which might well have passed for a shower bath. Jack Taylor won the toss, and the home side started towards the town end. After the opening exchanges the Evertonians moved down smartly, and McLoughlin put in a long shot, which McBride had little difficulty in dealing with. The visitors continued to press, but a foul against Abbott let the home side in, and a dash down by the forwards ended in Smith shooting wide. Following upon this there was a spell of give and take play, both sets of forwards attacking in turn, and if not over scientific, the football was certainly most exciting. Smart work took place in midfield. Bond got possession, and running down, finished with a shot which Scott cleared. The home side continued to force the pace, but the rain and wind were beating in their faces, and it was due to this that their shooting lacked sting. On one occasion a pretty concerted movement took the leather to within a few yards of the Everton goal, and Wilson ought to have scored when he shot over the bar. The climatic conditions soon began to tell on the efforts of the homesters, and Everton, taking the fullest advantage of the rain being at their backs, put on double pressure. Sharp ran down in his most characteristic way, and finished by putting in a beautiful oblique shot, which went across the goal mouth. Good work by Taylor gave the Everton forwards possession again, and Young had a long shot at McBride’s charge, but without success. All this time it was pouring in torrents, but not even this could damp the ardour of the crowd, and there was tremendous enthusiasm when the North-enders began a series of systematic bombardments on the Everton goal. Twice Smith and Brown looked dangerous and it was only the dash and vigour of Balmer that kept them at bay. In spite of this, however, the home front line kept pegging away, and the Everton half-backs were beaten time after time. An especially good move on the part of the three inside men ended in a tremendous struggle in the goalmouth, and Brown came within an ace of scoring, but Scott just managed to throw clear. The Prestonians were not to be denied, however, and their efforts were at length rewarded, for as the result of an exceptionally clever combined movement the ball was sent across to Bond, who shot in, and the leather striking the inside of the crossbar entered the net. This success naturally infused new life into the players and spectators alike, and they forgot their drenched condition in anticipation of a victory. The visitors, however, were not to be overawed, and for a long time they kept the home defenders busy. The work of the forwards was ragged, and both Sharp and ? managed to miss opportunities of showing anything like their customary cleverness, the Evertonians displayed cleverness and the home goal was constantly in jeopardy. Makepeace, who was playing a sound game, was especially prominent and on many occasion, and as a result of his work a corners was forced. This was cleared by the Preston defenders, but the Evertonians still lingered in the vicinity of McBridge’s charge, and Sharp had the ball at his foot and a fine chance of scoring when he shot yards wide. The game continued to be of a ding dong description, and it was really remarkable to note the celerity with which the players raced along the heavy saturated turf. Accuracy of aim was, of course, out of the question, and though both sets of forwards pressed in turn their final shots went woefully wide of the mark. A rather long spell of attack on the part of North End was relieved by a free kick in favour of Everton, and from this Rodway put the ball nicely forward, but it was so slippery that Brown, in trying to score, sent it skidding yards away. Following upon this there was an electrical sprint down the wing on the part of Sharp, but it ended in a rather wild and aimless shot. Just before half time the downpour became torrential, and the light was so bad that it was impossible to follow the finer phrases of the game. It was, indeed, an absolute farce to continue the match under such conditions, and yet the players kept up the pace as merrily as ever, and though most of those present were by this time absolutely drenched there was no suggestion of stopping. As the interval approached, the home forwards put on a great spurt, and Bond nearly added a second goal, but Crelly cleared, and at half-time the score read- Preston 1 goal, Everton Nil.
During the interval the weather cleared slightly, but the conditions were still distinctly uncomfortable. When play was resumed the players, it was noticed had made a complete change of clothing, and in this they were far more fortune than the bulk of the spectators. The ground had been reduced to a veritable quagmire, and any suggestion of really first-class football being shown was quite out of the question. The home side were the first to advance, but they floundered badly, and Brown missed the ball altogether when he was in a good position. The visitors took up the attack, and Young was prominent with a clever run through, but he failed at the crucial moment. After this, the North Ender’s pressed strongly, and Brown given us the chance of showing his however he made a miskick and them followed a long period of midfield play. A miskick by Lockett gave the Everton forwards a opening, but the ball stuck in the mud, and the danger was cleared. Sharp beat Rodway in clever style and swung in a lovely centre, which Hunter headed behind. Bond after beating Abbott shot straight at Scott, who cleared. Hardman raced away and after a series of scrimmages the ball came out to Taylor, who shot into a ruck of players, the ball passing through off Derbyshire’s foot. On the call of time Scott cleared a flying shot by Lockett in beautiful style.
Final Result Preston North End 1 goal, Everton 1 goal.

EVERTON v.  PRESTON NORTH END
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 09 September 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV 1
This match at Goodison Park was, unfortunately favoured with dull, showery weather, but, nevertheless, there was a very fair attendance. The team were as follows;-
Everton.- Kelly, goal; Hill and Hannan, backs; Chadwick, Wright, and Black, half-backs; Birnie, McLoughlin, Oliver, Jenkins, and Dilly, forwards.
Preston North End;- Taylor, goal; Blyth and Orrel, backs; McKie, Todd and Butterworth, half-backs; Rodgers, Maher, Turnbull, Bell, and Danson, forwards.
The visitors kicked off, but Everton soon got possession, and rushing down, narrowly missed scoring in the first minute, McLoughlin’s shot hitting the crossbar. After Preston’s goal had another narrow escape, Taylor saving his charge splendidly, the visitors rushed to the home goal, but Hannan returned finely. After another attack by the home forwards had been repulsed, the Prestonians rushed up, and from Dabson’s centre Turnbull scored. From the centre kick the Evertonians broke away, Oliver equalising with a fine shot. The rain at this time was coming down in torrents, and the players had great difficulty in keeping their feet. The play notwithstanding was very keen and interesting, and both goals had marvellous escapes- Preston’s goal in particular being splendid saved from Oliver’s shot. The rain was now so heavy that the referee stopped the game, and the players retired. It was still raining when the players returned to the field, but not so heavily. Preston were first to attack, but without result, and then Everton retaliated, but also without avail. The North End were the next to attack, and from Dawson, Turnbull put on a second goal for Preston. The visitors again attacked, and Todd sent in a fine shot from the half line, which Kelly just managed to keep out, falling in the attempt. A shot by Rodgers nearly came off, Kelly just managed to keep it out in time. At length Everton broke away nicely, and Birnie once more put the teams on equal terms. The cheers for thi9s feat had hardly died away when Turnbull running right through from the centre kick, put the North Enders ahead.
Half-time-Preston North End 3 goals, Everton Reserve 2 goals.

PRESTON v  EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 09 September 1905
VISITORS EQUALISE TEN MINUTES FROM THE FINISH
RAIN AND HEAVY GROUND SPOIL THE GAME
By “Perseus”
With Everton as visitors in their first Saturday match at home, North End had naturally looked forward to a grand “gate,” but when the weather, which has been so unsettled for several weeks, reached something approaching its worst to-day one had to realise that the hopes of a really big crowd were shattered. The downpour commenced in the middle of the morning and continued right into the afternoon without any intermission, and when spectators of the enthusiastic and hardy sort who are undeterred by any conditions, however, adverse, began to make their way to Deepdale the rain was still falling heavily. In these circumstances there was a demand for accommodation on the covered stands, and these sheltered parts were excellently patronised, but along the Skeffington-road side and behind the barrack’s goal there were comparatively few onlookers some of them striving to protect themselves with umbrellas, others huddling close up to the boards by way of securing some little protection, and all of them looking more or less miserable. The ground was, of course, fearfully wet, and there was every prospect of the teams having a very hard hour and a half. North End had precisely the same side as against Birmingham and Notts Forest but Everton made several changes from the eleven which defeated Middlesbrough by four goals to one. They were strengthened by the appearance of W. Balmer and Sharp in place of R. Balmer and Rankin, but the other alteration kept out one of their smartest forwards, viz., Settle, who is indisposed with a chill. In his absence McLoughlin, a clever Scotchman, was introduced. Teams;-
North End.- McBride, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; Mclean, Hunter, and Lyon, half-backs; Bond, Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Lockett, forwards.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer (W.), and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain) and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, McLoughlin, and H.P. Hardman, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.H. Smith, Doncaster.
When Taylor led out the visitors just in front of North End rain was sweeping down the ground. Everton, winning the toss, set the Prestonians to facer the storm. The Blues at once attacked, and McBride easily saved a shot from McLaughlin. From a free kick against Abbott for a foul on Smith the home team became dangerous, but Smith’s shot, all right in point of pace, was lacking in accuracy. The slippery ball and the treacherous ground made the conditions as adverse as they could possibly be, and the players experienced great difficulty in keeping the ball under anything like decent control. Everton were helped by the wind and rain, but they did not have any marked advantage. A pass from Smith started Bond, whose shot from long range was too slow to be troublesome. A little later Wilson had a glorious chance, but he shot over. A counter attack by Everton brought a dangerous centre from Sharp, but Derbyshire finally cleared. The same forward came again, but this time Hunter headed away smartly. By this time all the players must have been wet through, and the conditions involved a great handicap on North End. A corner on the left resulted in Sharp shooting just over, but a moment or two later the Lancashire cricketer secured possession again, and with a splendid shot, drove the ball close past the far post. The ball repeatedly went in direction contrary to the wishes of the players, but, nevertheless, the game was contested with considerable spirit. Everton were having the better of the play, as they were almost bound to do, but North End opposed them with a good deal of dash. Derbyshire was applauded for smartly bringing down Hardman when the left winger was going along the touch-line. After a while the Prestonians carried the war into the enemy’s country, and three times Lockett sent across splendid centres, and thrice the visitors’ goal was in grave danger. Scott saved on one occasion, and on another a swift drive by Wilson unluckily rebounded off one of his own side. A touch by Taylor put Brown onside in a fine position, but the wet ball slipped off the centre forward’s toe. North End again advanced in the teeth of the storm, and from a centre by Bond the goal escaped most narrowly, while an appeal for hands within the penalty line was strongly made, but without success. The attack was renewed, and at the psychological moment the ball was passed out to the right wing, with the result that Bond, lying well up, dashed in, and with a swift shot from close quarters, beat Scott, and opened the scoring. This success, which came After 16 minutes’ play, was enthusiastically received. Everton appealed for offside, but the referee immediately pointed to the centre, and thus the home team had secured a lead, despite the opposition of wind, rain and Everton. After this the visitors invaded Preston quarters, but they made no serious impression, and very soon the scene was changed, Balmer repelled Wilson and Lockett, and a free kick in midfield gave the visitors further assistance, only, however, for Rodway to kick into touch. A clever feed by Balmer gave the ball to Sharp, and the latter’s centre cannoned off Lyon for a corner, which, however, was unfruitful, Brown failed to take an opportunity of starting the home right, and very soon McDermott got close in at the other end, but luckily he was at an awkward angle, and put the ball behind. There was necessary a lot of wild kicking, and Sharp caused some laughter by shooting many yards wide, some of the spectators probably forgetting for the moment the wretched conditions. Crelly played into touch to stop McLean, but for all that North End were having a surprisingly good share of the play, for their work was fearfully hard. A long shot by Hunter was well saved by Scott and a centre from Wilson was safely cleared by Taylor. A long kick by Hunter started the left wing, and this was the commencement of an effort which ended in a shot from Bond, and a save by Scott. Some of the attempts a goal were palpably lacking in pace and accuracy as well, but this was in no way surprising, for it was well nigh impossible to get a grip of the ball. Rain was still falling thickly, but it was not beating in the faces of North End quite so much as before. Hunter was twice prominent for splendid work. One could admire the earnestness with which the players ploughed their way along. The sky became absolutely leaden and the rain fell faster than ever. A centre by Sharp was kicked wide by McDermott. The North End defenders all of them opposed the Evertonians with rare dash, and once at the other end Bond did some very clever work and looked like going through, but his foothold was not too secure, and at the last moment he was foiled. The Prestonians kept up their efforts with remarkable vigour. The rain now came down in sheers and when the referee sounded his whistle for a free kick the players were so anxious to get off the field that they started for the dressing-rooms, believing and hoping that the whistle had gone for the interval. Mr. Smith stopped their career, but within a few seconds the eagerly anticipated relief arrived, and the players trooped off, while the storm , increasing in violence, converted the track in front of the stand into a miniature river.
Half-time- North End 1, Everton 0
The interval was extended to a quarter of an hour, and in the meantime the rain had abated very considerably, but the surface of the ground was of course, more sloppy than ever. Both sets of players turned out in fresh attire. As soon as play was resumed they was one amusement, for two or three of the players splashed into a huge pool, and the water flew over their clothing, and even above their heads. Rodway checked the visitors, but a free kick was given against Lyon for fouling Young, and danger was threatening when the referee pulled up Young for offside. Derbyshire next extricated himself cleverly from a difficult position, and a dash by Smith and Bond presented a chance to Brown, who, however, shot weakly. Rodway took a free kick, but Balmer cleared finely, and subsequently Abbott did a capital piece of work. The rain was not beating in the faces of the Evertonians to the same extent as it had done in those of the North Enders earlier in the game. Brown allowed himself to be easily robbed by Taylor, and robbed by Taylor, and Balmer pulled up Bond when the latter looked very much like going through. Many of the players began to show signs of tiring, and no one could wonder, for seldom has one seen a more wicked day for football. Often when the ball pitched in a pool of water it was stopped absolutely dead. McBride saved when Young headed in from a long kick by Balmer, but he found it very difficult to gather, the slippery ball, and was probably pleased that the demands on him had not been very great. The ball was frequently in touch, but the interest in the game was fairly maintained. Rodway and Derbyshire best back Young and McLoughlin, and then Crelley did good work against Bond, who was not to anxious to face the burly Everton back. On both sides the defence was to the fore with vigorous play, but the forwards found combination totally impossible. An attempt to trip Brown, who at length looked like doing something noteworthy, failed, and the free kick was, of no avail. North End were having some advantage, but neither side was shaping very much like goal-getters, and as an exhibition of football the game was necessarily poor. It was mainly a question of stamina. One or two of the players were spoken to by the referee for improper tactics. Each end was visited, but the players seldom came to close quarters with the goalkeepers, Lyon, McLean, and Hunter were in turn prominent for lusty kicking, and Crelley again repelled the home right. A bad miskick by Derbyshire promised to let in Young and McLoughlin, but Hunter came to the rescue. Occasionally the ball flew among the spectators, who tried to dodge it as if it were some fatal missile, but there were players who dared to put their heads to the water-weighted leather. One of the most likely chances which fell to Everton came from a corner cleverly won and capitally taken by Sharp, but Derbyshire cleared, and right off the wing Bond sent in a splendid shot, which Scott caught in clean style. The visitors seldom looked like scoring, but with 11 minutes to go they did so, a shot from Taylor going into the goalmouth, where McLoughlin, in an offside position, hampered Derbyshire, who tipped the ball past McBride. The appeals of the Prestonians were unheeded, and with so short a time to go, a draw appeared highly probable. The succeeding play was fairly even, but for the most part the respective defences prevailed. North End secured a corner, and from this Derbyshire put just over. Hesitation by Derbyshire let in Hardman, and close on time Everton had a free kick in dangerous proximity to McBride. Again the defence came out best. Result;- North End 1 Everton 1.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION DIVISION 1
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 09 September 1905
EVERTON v.  PRESTON NORTH END
At Goodison Park, before a moderate crowd. During the forenoon the weather on the Merseyside was showery, and at the kick-off the same conditions prevailed. Everton were successful in naming the coin, and Oliver started. At the outset the home right appeared dangerous until Orrell relieved. Still maintaining the pressure, Everton the visitors’ defence an anxious time. From a free kick, North End advanced, but Bell shot over. Everton forced a corner off Orrell, but nothing occurred. Both ends were visited in quick succession, but there was little accurate shooting however. North End attacked, and from a centre by Rodger, Turnbull looked dangerous, but was robbed. Another corner fell to the home side, and Taylor was instrumental in saving in brilliant fashion. Turnbull scored, and at quarter time North End were leading by a goal. The home team equalised through Oliver, who gave Taylor no chance. Rain was now falling heavily. Despite this the game was fiercely contested, Taylor dealing with several shots in grand fashion. Play was suspended owing to the downpour, but was resumed after a few minutes. Turnbull placed Preston ahead. Birnie again equalised, and Turnbull scored a third goal for the visitors.
Half-time- North End Reserve 3, Everton Reserve 2

Resuming Preston were the first to show up prominently, Kelly saving twice in masterly style. North End forced several corners, but the home defence proved sound. Everton gave Taylor plenty of work. Neither side could claim any advantage, both ends being visited. Danson shot miserably when in a good position. The homesters stove hard to draw level. Everton maintained the pressure on the visitors’ goal, with the result that Chadwick levelled the score. The rain and slippery ground proved detrimental to the movements of the players. Turnbull broke away, but finished by shooting wide. Kelly repelled a good shot from Bell. Play was transferred, and Oliver missed an easy chance when under the bar. Result- North End Res 3, Everton R 3.

EVERTON DRAW AT DEEPDALE.
Athletic News - Monday 11 September 1905
By Pavo.
Preston North End will beat Everton someday. It must be eight or nine years since the Ribble-siders last extracted two points from the Goodison club. They and their supporters fondly hoped that the long lane was to have a turning on Saturday, for the North Enders secured the lead sixteen minutes after the commencement, and remained in front until ten minutes of the close, when their expectations were shattered by a goal which made the game a draw. It is a long time since we saw such a match at Deepdale. The fight was keen, and it is quite likely that had the weather and ground been favourable the display would have been particularly well worth watching. As it was the dash and stamina were admirable, and the mis-kicks were even less numerous than might have been expected under the circumstances. Taylor did a capital stroke of business for his side when he won the toss, for the wind and rain were sweeping towards the barracks goal, which the Everton captain, of course, set North End to defend, the consequence being that for half-an-hour or so the Prestonians were struggling in the teeth of the elements, the breeze afterwards dropping to a large extent and the rain coming nearly straight down. In this North End had the worst of the luck. It was rather curious, however, that they should have secured their goal when they were thus handicapped. The game had not been going long when a splendid opportunity was presented to Wilson, the Preston inside-left, and without doubt a goal should have been scored, but the ball went flying over the bar, to the immeasurable disappointment of the onlookers. Jack Sharp, playing for the first time since he doffed his flannels , was the most prominent man in one or two Everton movements, and from right on the wing he rattled in a swift oblique shot which went just past the far post, and would have been very dangerous on such a day had it happened to be quite straight. Several centres from Lockett, who was busy hereabouts, threatened danger, but the first goal came from the other wing, Bond snapping up a smart pass, running close in, and giving Scott no chance. It was a neat goal, not without a suspicion of off-side in the minds of the Evertonians, but the referee was confident.  A goal is a grand stimulant, and despite the rain, which opposed them for another fifteen minutes at least, North End were the better team up to the interval. Afterwards, the Prestonians scarcely did so well considering that they were then in no way handicapped. Possibly the pace of the first half had left its effect on some of them. In the second half, there was little to choose between the two sides, and defence was so far superior to attack that in ordinary circumstances it seemed likely that Bond’s goal would settle the issue.  But it didn’t, or ten minutes off time Taylor, the Everton centre half, sent in a shot which cannoned off Derbyshire into the net. There was a strong claim that the Preston back mentioned was hampered by a player in an off side position, but as in the case of North End’s goal Mr. Smith’s verdict favoured the attack. So the spoils were divided, as they were in the corresponding game last season.   Neither deserved to finish without something to show for such an arduous battle under wretched conditions, and consequently a draw was in one sense the best possible result. Yet on the play the Preston men were slightly the more meritorious team. I say this mainly because of the wonderful spirit and pertinacity they exhibited in the first half. Their backs and half backs played with rare resolution, and McBride was so well covered that the demands on him were by no means great. Derbyshire played a dashing game, and his little mishap the finish in putting through his own goal was a bit of bad lack. Rodway also performed well, and McLean, Hunter, and Lyon at half were magnificent in their energy, and energy was a great thing on Saturday. In attack there was, of course, little combination, and the outside wing men, Bond and Lockett, were best, for though the former has been more effective he scored his goal very smartly.  Brown was of little use on the heavy ground. Everton found the conditions little suited to their style of play, and the forwards certainly suffered, for the game was well advanced before they were at all successful.  A heady player like Settle, who was absent through a chill, might have been useful, for one except Sharp quite to realise the need for open passing. In defence there was a lot of excellent work. Taylor had the measure of the home centre forward completely, and both Makepeace and Abbott were thoroughly effective. W. Balmer and Crelley became stronger as the game advanced, and I especially liked the latter’s play against Bond. Scott, in goal, had more to do than McBride, if the shots were not as a rule difficult he did well to field the ball in such clean style, seeing that it was slippery, and the foothold insecure. Finally, neither set of forwards went for long shooting, as they might have done, for such shots are dangerous on wet day. Teams: — North End;- McBride; Derbyshire, Rodway;  McLean, Hunter,  Lyon; Bond, Smith, Brown, Wilson, and Lockett.  Everton-Scott : Balmer. W. Crelley ; Makepeace,  Taylor,  Abbott;   Sharp. McDermott, Young,  McLoughlin, and H. P. Hardman.  Referee. J. H- Smith. Doncaster.

PRESTON NORTH END v. EVERTON.
London Daily News - Monday 11 September 1905
Those teams met at Preston in wretched weather, the game ending in a draw of one goal each. Although facing the storm Preston had rather the best of matters throughout the first half and scored through Bond. Both sides showed good defence in the second half, but ten minutes before the close Taylor enabled the visitors to draw level. Three changes were made in the Everton team.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 3
September 11, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 3)
At Goodison-park on Saturday Everton only draw With Preston North End Reserves each side scoring on three occasions. They ought, however to have secured both points but a mistake on the part of the goalkeeper resulted in the visitors taking the lead, and it was only after repeated efforts that the Everton got on level terms. The home side started promisingly the Preston goal being almost captured in the first two minutes while Taylor the visiting custodian soon afterwards cleared finely from Oliver. The Prestonians however, opened the scoring through Turnbull, Kelly should have stopped the shot, but the ball rolled into the net off the foot of the upright. Oliver equalised with a fine shot, and then the play was stopped for some time owing to the deluge. On resuming Turnbull twice beat Kelly, who was handicapped by having to stand in a pool of water, but Birnie reduced the visitors lead before the interval. Afterwards Everton easily held the upper hand, but they could only score once, through Chadwick. As indicated, Everton deserved to win, but Taylor in the Preston goal gave a fine display, and to him and Turnbull the visitors chiefly owed their draw. Apart from his one mistake Kelly did well and immediately after the storm he made two clever saves. Hill was the better back. Chadwick did well at half, while Oliver and Birnie stood out well among the forwards. Teams: - Everton: - Kelly goal, Hill, and Hannon, backs, Chadwick Wright and Black half-backs Birnie, Rankin Oliver, Jenkins, and Dilly forwards. Preston North End: - Taylor, goal, Blythe, and Orral, backs, McKie, Todd, and Butterworthy, half-backs, Rodgers, Maher, Turnbull, Bell (j), and Danson, forwards.

EVERTON SHARE POINTS WITH PRESTON
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Monday 11 September 1905
The Evertonians are to be cordially congratulated upon bringing back a point from Preston. It is a wholesome dictum that the team that can gather laurels away from home with any degree of consistency is not likely to be far from the top of the |League table when the close of the season is reached. On Saturday the division of honours was about the only pleasant thing in connection with the game. For sheer discomfort of surroundings one will have to look back over many seasons. The rain poured down with a pitiless persistency that drenched players and spectators alike. Even those occupying seats on the covered stands did not escape, and the poor Pressman, thanks to a generously leaky roof, were altogether in a sorry plight. The North End organisation is not, we are aware, an over wealthy one, but they might easily afford to repair the Press-box roof. As to the game itself, it would be superfluous to enter into minute details. Anything in the nature of finished football was out of the question, for the rain swept across the enclosure in blinding volumes, and in the later stages of the engagement the men were helplessly floundering in a submerged quagmire. Although they had to face the wind, the North Enders pressed strongly from the start, and quite early on in the game W. Balmer and Crelly had all their work cut out to resist the impetuous rushes of the home forwards. They swung the ball across from side to side in the most dangerous way, and it was obvious that the policy of long passing was the correct one under such elemental conditions. Several long “pots” at Scott’s charge were admirably dealt with by the Irishman, and thanks to some capital work by the Everton halves, the visitors in turn enjoyed quite a considerable spell of pressure, in which Sharp and Young were especially prominent. However, they found themselves opposed by two sterling backs, and Rodway eventually succeeded in clearing them out. This paved the way to a further series of attacks on the part of the home brigade, and from a smart pass by Brown, Bond, the outside-right flyer, scored the first goal of the game. There was some disposition to regard Bond’s position at the time as offside, but the referee announced the goal a thoroughly legitimate one. After this setback the Evertonians put on greater strenuousness of style, and having the advantage of the storm at their backs they gave the North End defence a rare putting up. But as has already been said the Prestonians possess a clever pair in Rodway and Derbyshire, while McBride proved nimble and alert between the sticks. Just before the interval Makepeace, working through on his own account, came within an ace of putting the Blues on level terms, but the shot was saved and when half time arrived North End were meritorious leaders by the goal already indicated. It was generally thought that, having secured a lead under such adverse circumstances, the home side would retain it during the second portion of play. This opinion, however, was not justified, for the Evertonians, when they came to face the wind, proved as plucky and dashing as their opponents. At this point the ground was under water, and it was really remarkable how well and accurately the players sustained control of the now saturated and slippery ball. This they did, however, and many terrific rushes were made upon the home goal. It was not, of course, scientific football, but it was the acme of arduous endeavour. Ten minutes before the end came Everton reaped their due reward. It is true that they were helped to this through a pardonable slip of Derbyshire. In attempting to divert a shot from Taylor, the Preston back, unfortunately for his side, glanced into the net a ball which otherwise would have gone yards wide. Thus the game resulted in an honourable draw, and this may he said to indicate a true and proper reflex of a game fought with typical Lancastrian determination. The Everton forwards one and all showed commendable form, Sharp perhaps being the most brilliant of the quintet. Young too, gave evidence of the fact that he can keep his wings together, and the plucky way in which little Harold Hardman plugged through the mire was in its way a revelation. The absence of Settle was not materially felt owing to the downright hard work of McLoughlin. The half-back line substantiated the promising show made in the opening game of the season, and the backs were seen to much greater advantage than those that appeared against Middlesbrough, whilst Scott did his work deftly and well. Preston may not have a team of football giants, but on Saturday’s form they possess a distinctly useful and well-balanced side. Bond was at times very brilliant, and the other forwards worked well. The defence generally is sound, and Rodway on the occasion under notice played an exceptionally good game.
In the Lancashire Combination Everton met Preston North End at Goodison Park. Of the two teams Preston were decidedly the better, their combination being much superior especially in the first half, when they deservedly led by 3 goals to 2. Among their forwards was the old Everton favourite Jack Bell and judging from his display on Saturday, he was plenty of good football in him yet. The Everton forwards adopted the kick-and-rush game, and perhaps under the circumstances, it was the better way -at all events it came off, their goals being got from long shots. Both goalkeepers had plenty to do, and they both performed well under very trying conditions, though Kelly was very lucky on two occasions, the slippery nature of the ground preventing the Preston forwards getting up in time to take advantage of Kelly’s fumblings. There was only one goal scored in the second half, and that was from a long shot by Chadwick, which completely deceived the Preston goalkeeper. This made the scores equal, and the result was a draw of 3 goals each. The Evertonians played a much better game in the second half, and if they did not show the same science as their opponents, they worked hard, and fully deserved the goal they got. It transpired that Rankin was playing in place of Jenkins, but this was not known in the Press Box till well on in the second period of the game. We think, as a matter of courtesy, that when alterations take place in a team from that published in the official programme, the Press ought to be informed. Unless this sis done mistakes are bound to happen.

EVERTON HET HOLD-OFF A NEW GOALKEEPER
Liverpool Echo - Monday 11 September 1905
L.G. ROOSE
“Evertonian” writes;- I note with interest all you write in to-night’s “Echo” with reference to the Roose case. My grievance in the matter is not in Roose leaving Everton, but the way in which he has left. Personally I think he has left Everton in a hole, as far as goalkeepers are concerned; and to leave his decision until the last two weeks in the close season will, I think, leave rather a bad taste with the majority of the “Blues” supporters. If the directors had known earlier what Roose’s intentions were, I am sure they would not have parted with Kitchen, a really capital man, in my humble opinion. Everton have Scott on hand, thank goodness; but what are they going to do about a capable reserve to fill his place, should he meet with another accident like at Sheffield last year?
My Hale-road correspondent will be interested to learn that the Everton directors have been on the look-out to strengthen the portion that badly needed it, and they have come to a rather strange agreement. They parted with Kitchen to West Ham and now West Ham have sort of reciprocated; they have transferred Collins, their custodian, to Everton, who I fear have got the worst of the deal. Collins was formerly with Burnley, and he had his transfer fee reduced by the League from £250 to £75.
A personal friend of Scott sends the following;- Your reply to “Toffee” viz.-
“Scott, the Everton goalkeeper, has a brother who operates among the forwards with his school team-Arnot-street.” As a personal friend, and at his desire, I contradict this erroneous statement, which is calculated to mislead those of your readers who have ere this based many a heated argument and volcanic eruption on the valuable and instructive information furnished by “Bee.” Scott has no such brother and mourns his loss.

BARROW 4 EVERTON RESERVES 3
September 12, 1904. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 4)
At Barrow yesterday. The first half was stubbornly contested, both sides attacking strongly, but the defence was superb. The home side pressed hard, and Rea Ramsay, and Jones deserved success. After half an hour's play Everton attacked strongly, and Lawrie fumbling the ball, Rankin scored. The visitors maintained the lead until the interval. On resuming Barrow pushed and Jones equalised. Harvey gave Barrow the lead, and Walty Boyle scored, Black and Birnie than scored for Everton. Result Barrow 4, goals, Everton 3. Everton: - Collins, goal, Hill, and Hannon, backs Chadwick, Wright, and Black, half-backs Bernie McLoughlin, Oliver, Rankin, and Dilly, forwards.

BARROW v  EVERTON RESERVE
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Tuesday 12 September 1905
At Barrow. The first half was stubbornly contested, both sides attacking strongly, but the defence was superb. The home side pressed hard, and Rea, Ramsay, and Jones deserved success. The ball travelled fast from one end to the other. After half an hour’s play Everton attacked strongly, and Lawrie fumbling the ball, Rankin scored. The visitors maintained this lead until the interval. On resuming Barrow pressed and Jones equalised. Harvey gave Barrow the lead, and Watty and Boyle scored. Black and Birnie scored for Everton. Result; Barrow 4, Everton 3.

A McCONNELL
Derby Daily Telegraph-Wednesday 13 September 1905
Grimsby Town have resigned A. McConnell, who has played full back for them during the past two seasons. He has played with Everton, Woolwich Arsenal, and Queen's Park Rangers.

BEE
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 13 September 1905
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Thursday 14 September 1905
M.J. Earp the old full back, who was identified with Everton and Sheffield Wednesday with whom he finished his football career prior to going out to South Africa with the Imperial Yeomanry, has returned, and is following football now.
Everton have arranged to play Southport Central for the benefit of charity, and it is probable that the Lord Mayor of Liverpool and party will attend.

NORTHERN NOMADS 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
September 14, 1905.
The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
The Nomads were extremely fortunate in securing such an attractive fixture for their opening match of the New Brighton Tower Ground last evening. There was a good muster of spectators present when the teams lead as follows: - Northern Nomads: - Wilson, goal, Wallwork and Housefield, backs, Ashworth, Browne, and Duggan half-backs, McKenna, Gankridge, Edwards, Bell, and Forster, forwards. Everton: - Hoye, goal, Hill and Hannan backs, Wright Kerr and Donaldson, half-backs, Rankin, Jones, A.N.Other, Jenkins, and Cropper, forwards. The initial half was fairly evenly contested, and, despite clever work on the part of the Forster and McKenna, the Everton defence refused to be beaten, Hill and Hannan always presenting a bold defence. The interval arrived with a clean sheet. From the restart the homesters adopted a more business like attitude, and within fifteen minutes of the resumption, Edwards had no difficulty in nothing the first point from an accurate centre by Forster. At the other end Wright hit the inside of the crossbar and the ball rebounded into play- a marvelous escape for the Nomads. After midfield play Gaukridge sent in a long shot, which Hoye fumbled, and Edwards being close at hand, easily put the leather into the net for the second time. The Blues were awarded a penalty kick, which Donaldson sent over the bar. The Nomads were a better-balanced team throughout, and deserved their victory of two goals to nil.

SPORTING ITEMS
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Thursday 14 September 1905
M.J. Earp the old full back, who was identified with Everton and Sheffield Wednesday with whom he finished his football career prior to going out to South Africa with the Imperial Yeomanry, has returned, and is following football now.
Everton have arranged to play Southport Central for the benefit of charity, and it is probable that the Lord Mayor of Liverpool and party will attend.

EVERTON F.C. ANTICIPATIONS FOR SATURDAY
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 14 September 1905
Bee
Thus early on the Everton F.C officials are expectant of breaking their gate records. On Saturday, they are informed, there will be a large number of Geordies paying a visit to Goodison to see the holders of the championship cup try conclusions with the home side. Much enthusiasm has been aroused in Newcastle, even though their pets have played very moderately so far, and the supporters have been bound more closely to their club by reason of the interest taken in them by the directors, who have spent £12,000 on the enlargement of their St. James’s Park enclosure, which now covers five acres, and in improving accommodation. Poor Newcastle directors! They have £4,000 burning a hole in their pockets even after this expense. They deserve pity! So much for the visitors element. As for the local favours; well, Everton have now, according to Secretary W. Cuff, the finest covered accommodation, particularly for those gentry who form the popular portion, in the country. Whereas last year a crowd of 53,.000 could be accommodated, now 60,000 can be, and doubtless will be, put up when occasion demands- the local Derby Day, for example, a fortnight hence.
Regular followers of the fortunes of the Everton team will recollect how remarkably fine the game was between United and the Blues last season-a game that bristled with excitement for a full term of ninety minutes, and the issue of which was in doubt till the very last minute. I link that match in my memory to the famous cup final when Everton were laid low by 3-2 by Aston. These two were the finest games I have had the pleasure of witnessing, and there is, of course, a possibility of equally-attractive play being witnessed on Saturday. We seem to have had our share of the wet just recently, and the week-end should be fine, and if so the treasurer of Everton will wear a big smile at service on Sunday. The teams will be at tiptop strength. Settle has managed to get right again, and allowing him to replace McLoughlin, there is no change in the side that draw with Preston.
Everton Reserve are out at Rossendale this week-end, and with their half-dozen backs at liberty, they have given Wildman a place in preference to Hill, while Collins the ex-West Ham and Burnley custodian, will do duty instead of A.J. Kelly. Then there is a left half of whom the club expect something above the ordinary. He is one Donaldson, and he comes fra’ Stirling. Rankin will operate at inside right, and McLoughlin on the left of Oliver.
Bert Sharp, the former Everton footballer, who figured with Stabley Cricket Club during the season just ended, has signed on as a Saturday afternoon professional for Prescot C.C. for next season. His batting will be found by his new club of extreme value.

NORTHERN NOMADS v  EVERTON COMBINATION
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Friday 15 September 1905
The Nomads were extremely fortunate in securing such an attractive fixture for their opening match at the New Brighton Tower Grounds, last evening. There was a good muster of spectators present when the teams faced as follows;-
Northern Nomads.- Wilson, goal; Wallwork, and Horsefield, backs; Ashworth, Browne, and Duggan, half-backs; McKenna, Gaukrodger, Edwards, Bell, and Forester, forwards.
Everton.- Hoye, goal; Hill and Hannan, backs; Wright, Carr, and Donaldson, half-backs; G. Rankin, Jones, A.N. Other, Jenkins, and Cropper, forwards.
The initial half was fairly evenly contested and despite clever work on the part of Forster, and McKenna, the Everton defence refused to be beaten, Hill and Hannan always presenting a bold front. The Interval arrived with a clean sheet. From the restart the homesters adopted a more business-like attitude, and within fifteen minutes of the resumption Edwards had no difficulty in notching their first point from an accurate centre by Forster. At the other end Wright hit the inside of the crossbar, and the ball rebounded into play-a marvellous escape for the Nomads. After midfield play Gaukrodger sent in a long shot, which Hoye fumbled and Edwards being close at hand, easily put the leather into the net for the second time. The Blues were awarded a penalty, which Donaldson sent over the bar. The Nomads were a better balanced team throughout, and deserved their victory of 2 goals to nil.

PROSPECTS POINT TO A GREAT DAY AT GOODISON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 15 September 1905
Bee
When the League form at a glance was studied last April it was found that Newcastle United headed the League, just one peg above Everton, and the United had made an advance of 4 points compared with the previous year. With United now failing-and unaccountably, toe, for they have their best men still with them- this advance of four is likely to come down a lump, even though the club has two extra matches to play in this season’s tournament. That their quartet of matches should have been so barren of points to them is a certain indication that when they line up before the great Goodison gathering with Mr. A.G. Hines as referee, they will be full of determination to give nothing away. Therefore, Everton must beware, and be on their best behaviour. The team the Blues have to meet has not yet been settled owing to the injuries McCombie and Appleyard received on Wednesday against the Wednesday of Sheffield, who, by the way, played four ex-Tynesiders in Lyall, Bartlett, Simpson and Stewart. However, Lawrence, the youngest custodian in the first standard of football is pretty certain to keep goal, and if McCombie has to drop out, then the Irish international McCracken, who is playing a good game after a period of idleness, will partner Carr. In their half-back line the United have undoubted power, especially at centre, where “Daddier” Aitken performs so constantly. Mind you, I would sooner have the Everton intermediate line of the two. Report has it that the United are playing the close-passing game excessively. Everton too, are “inclined that way,” and when you get two sides contesting whose forwards use similar methods and whose halves are very strong, then generally comes a tug-of-war worthy of watching. Colin Veitch may get his chance of helping the Novocastrains. I hope he does. He is one of those unfortunates in a team called “handymen”- which, being interpreted, means that he is called upon at any moment to fill any position the directors have vacant. Colin, who is best at centre half, formerly helped Rufford College. He and McCombie are able pianists, as is Parry, the wearer of the red jersey. Hardinge, the Kent cricket amateur, who has joined Newcastle, is also a musical man. He sings brilliantly to his own accompaniment. With the aid of Willis and Crumley as corner men, and Watts as “Mr. Johnson,” the players mentioned might provide a fine minstrel troupe.
McLoughlin, I am told was working hard the whole of the game through at Preston, and with every credit. With Settle ready to don his scoring boots, it is only natural that McLoughlin, “the foreign corr.,” drops out. Liverpool people will welcome their pet, Jack Sharp, for the first time this season, and hope to see him among the goalworkers and goal-getters. I have a presentiment that we shall have a capital day’s sport, and look to the home team to be the winning side.

GORDON
Falkirk Herald - Saturday 16 September 1905
Falkirk will turn out the same team against the Celtic as faced Aberdeen last week, with the exception that Gordon will play in place of D. Mitchell at back. Two years ago Gordon was one of the Everton reserve backs and last season he was with Southampton. He has both height and weight. His League transfer from Everton was received on Thursday morning.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Saturday 16 September 1905
When the League form at a glance was studied last April it was found that Newcastle United headed the League just one peg above Everton, and the United had made an advance of 4 points compared with the previous year. With United now failing-and unaccountably too, for they have their best men still with them- this advance of four is likely to come down a lamp, even though the club has two extra matches to play in the season’s tournament. That their quarter of matches should have been so barren of points to them is a certain indication that when they line up before the great Goodison gathering with Mr. A.G. Hines as referee, they will be full of determination to give nothing away. Report has it that the United are playing the close passing game excessively. Everton, too, are “inclined that way,” and when you get two sides contesting whose forwards use similar methods and whose halves are very strong, then generally comes a tug-of-war worthy of watching. Liverpool people will welcome their pet. Jack Sharp for the first time this season, and hope to see him among the goal-workers and goalgetters.
Everton v Newcastle United
League match at Goodison Park; kick-off 3.30.
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman, forwards.
Newcastle United.- Lawrence, goal; McCracken and McCombe, backs; Gardner, Veitch, and McWilliams, half-backs; Rutherford, Howie, Hardinge, Orr, and Gosnell, forwards.
Rossendale United v Everton at Rossendale

ROSSENDALE UNITED v  EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 16 September 1905
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV 1
Much interest was taken in this match, Everton never having beaten the United at Dark-lane. Collins, Everton’s new goalkeeper, saved brilliantly from a corner, and later saved from Flynn. Rossendale attacked splendidly, the forwards doing better than previously. Hall made a sharp run, but was beaten by Coat, and later Wright sent the ball wide. The game was very hotly contested. Half-time.- Rossendale 1, Everton nil.
Final.- Rossendale 1, Everton nil.

EVERTON v  NEWCASTLE UNITED
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 16 September 1905
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
HOWIE SCORES FIRST FOR NEWCASTLE
JACK SHARP EQUALISES
SPLENDID FORWARD TACTICS
CAPITAL CUSTODIANSHIP
SCOTT DISTINGUISHES HIMSELF
BLACK’S SUCCESSFUL DEBUT
A DETERMINED STRUGGLE
EVERTON BEATEN JUST ON TIME
Under ordinary circumstances the visit of the Novocastrians to Goodison Park would have aroused a great amount of enthusiasm in Liverpool, and made Everton’s partisans tremble on the score of points. But Newcastle, like other prominent clubs, with much more time honoured reputations, have so far sadly besmirched their championship escutcheon. As a matter of fact, the Geordies have lost a match away, one at home, and drawn two others on their own enclosure- a poor beginning surely for last season’s League champions and English Cup finalists. Still, the fact that the potentialities of the team might spring to life in to-day’s encounter led the spectators to anticipate a right royal struggle, with the issue hanging in the balance until the final note of the whistle proclaimed victory. The weather, although rather on the dull side, was pleasant enough to induce some 30,000 people to be present on the ground ten minutes from the start. The home team suffered from the absence of Makepeace, who has, unfortunately strained the muscles of his back, and his place was filled by Black, who hails from the Celtic club, this being his first appearance with the League eleven. The teams were heartily cheered when they made their appearance. Teams;-
Everton.- Scott; W. Balmer and J. Crelly, backs; Black, Taylor (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Newcastle United; Gosnell; Orr and Hardinge; Howie, Rutherford, and McWilliam; Veitch, Gardener, McCombie, McCracken, and Lawrence, forwards.
Referee.- Mr. A.G. Hines, Nottingham.
The Everton skipper lost the toss, and Young had the sun in his eyes when he kicked off towards the Stanley Park goal. Then initial moves were rather in favour of Everton, who, generally by means of the right wingers, were aggressive for some little time, but McCombie gave nothing away and cleared in very smart fashion. A battle royal between the Everton halves and the United forwards ended in favour of the latter, who got away on the right, only to fall victims to the home defence. Shortly afterwards the ball was swung out to Sharp, who, as he was racing for the ball, came a tremendous cropper, and McCombie cleared easily. Taylor was penalised, but he made amends by smartly heading away. McWilliam, however, enabled the Novos to renew the attack, and Gardner supported on the other wing, and though the Everton backs offered a gallant resistance, Newcastle persisted, and after Balmer had replied to a beauty from Hardinge, Rutherford looked particularly dangerous. Then Scott, summing up the situation to a nicety, rushed out and effected a very timely clearance. From this the Evertonians took the leather down in grand style, but McCombie proved equal to the occasion, although Everton occupied Newcastle territory for a few minutes. The ball went from the centre to Orr, who had the better of a tussle with Black, but Taylor came to the rescue, and Settle fastened on, but was pronounced offside as he gave a pass to Hardman. The United left wingers again made play and forced a corner, which was cleared by Abbott, who followed up smartly and passed to Hardman, who failed to take the ball. However, the Evertonians came again, and on this occasion Settle got in his shot, which was many yards wide. The United took up the attack once more, and by means of remarkably pretty play gained a foothold in Everton quarter from which point Orr netted the ball, but from an offside position. After this narrow escape the Blues responded with a very smart forward movement, which culminated in a stiff attack from their right. McCracken and McCombie were quite outwitted by the clever tactics of the Everton forwards, and after Lawrence had just managed to scrape one out from McDermott at exceedingly close quarters, and then Young was left with an open goal, but somehow he lost his balance and failed miserably to take the splendid opportunity but somehow he lost his balance and failed miserably to take the splendid opportunity offered. Meanwhile McCracken cleared. Then the visitors attacked in determined fashion and Scott effected a grand clearance from Hardinge. Then Gosnell worked round Balmer and sent in a lovely left footer, which was perfectly replied to by Scott, both shot and save being cheered to the echo. At the other end McCracken made a dash to stave off an attack by Young, and fell over him the result being that Young limped about for a short while. Crelly made a rather weak clearance, but the ball went out of play. Afterwards, however, he rendered yeoman service by going to the assistance of Balmer when the latter was twice beaten. A header from Abbott was captured by Gardner, who gave Rutherford a fine chance of centreing, which he did to a nicely, Balmer returning it in fine style. After Settle had failed to take a nice pass from McDermott, Abbott shot across to his left, but Hardman failed to trap the leather before it went out. Mutual exchanges followed. The Novocastrians attack was extremely dangerous and only really sterling defence on the part of the Blues staved off disaster. A clever move up the right wound up with Scott saving splendidly, from a very hard shot from Howie at close quarters. The visitors were now having rather the best of matters, and occupied Everton territory for some time, the efforts of the Blues a cross the line being very cleverly thwarted it. Last they got over the line and the ball sent out to Sharp whose centre was easily fluted by McCracken. When Gosnell tried to get away he was many yards offside, but the homesters gained nothing from the free kick. Young cleverly robbed Veitch and Gardiner, but could not bore his way through and although the Evertonians came again and gained a corner on the right, they failed to profit thereby. Very clever footwork was then shown by Settle, Young, and Sharp but again fortune declined to smile upon the homesters, McCombie putting his foot to the ball and checking the attacking party, the sphere afterwards rolling out of play. Misses by Abbott and Crelly let in the Novos right wing, but they frittered away a fine opportunity, Rutherford crossing to Goswell who returned recklessly out of play. But Newcastle were not to be denied and some extremely clever forward play was supplemented by a most judicious pass from Gardner to Howie and the Everton warden had no option but accept defeat. The Novocastrians deserved their goal, as it was but the culmination of many previous clever efforts. Everton did not accept this goal tamely, as they almost immediately swept down the field in line, and when within shooting distance excellent finessing made an opportunity for Sharp, who equalising cleverly.
Half-time; Everton 1 goal, Newcastle United 1 goal.
Resuming operations it was obvious the crowd had greatly increased and they numbered little short of 40,000. Skirmishing in the centre ended in Abbott, Settle and Young taking the leather into the Newcastle quarters when McCombie promptly turned out the intruders after Sharp had made an abortive effort to carry on the movement. The visitors responded with a serious incursion which was well maintained, and in which Gosnell was next prominent, and Scott thought it discreet to run out and clear from the outsider. This did not quench the Novos’ ardour, and as the close pressure had been exerted, Scott had to show his agility once again by saving a hot one from Howie. Some very clever passing was now shown by Hardman, Settle, and Young, but the last-named unfortunately was “packed” between McQuillian and McCombie and the ball was cleared. McQuillian, then let in Sharp, who made a dash in, but the defence fell back, and the Everton man’s centre went for nothing. Just afterwards Crelly went through the half backs, and tried a long shot on his own account but he was nowhere near the mark. Young and Settle made an opening for Sharp, who forced a corner. Orr had a beautiful opening in front of Scott, but he failed to take the ball, which was a lucky let off for Everton. The game continued to be wonderfully well balanced, both sides acquitting themselves admirably, and some pretty foot work being shown on both sides. Newcastle were rather the more dangerous, and Scott was tested by McWilliam and Rutherford. Then followed a well-conceived attack by the Blues, and it was not until the novice had passed through the ordeal of four corners that the attack terminated. Scott saved his goal twice once from a free kick and again from a centre by Gosnell. Taylor twice cleared his line, and then Newcastle gamed a corner. Scott again saving, but being forced to concede a further corner. This time Taylor cleared and Sharp dashed away, but was too well looked after to show much advantage. A foul against Crelly placed the Everton goal in danger but Taylor cleared, and a couple of free kicks against Newcastle carried the play to the other end, where Black made a grand attempt to score, Lawrence bringing off a smart save. Everton were exerting great pressure, and Sharp had the ball in a good position, but being closely attended passed in to Young, who only just failed to reach land. A breakaway by the visitors and a sharp shot from Howie tested Scott to the utmost, but he flung himself at the ball, and his goal escaped at the expense of a corner which was safely negotiated. At the other end Sharp, Settle and McDermott were very busy, and the last-named endeavoured to score, but Lawrence saved his side. Four minutes from time Orr scored cleverly with a brilliant shot, Scott having no chance. Final Result Newcastle United 2 goals Everton 1 goal.
Everton beat the Newcastle representatives last season by 2 goals to 1.
BEE’S SHAPSHOT
Having fixed up the apparatus, and having got the focus right, let me open out a commentary to you on the game of to-day. As I look through my impartial glasses from the - it is the first time I have accommodated myself in the new structure, as I am the proud possessor of a flash-looking season ticket, which enables me to get near the lady mascot of the club in the specially reserved stand. I see Lawrence trot out as custodian to the visiting side. About this young gentleman there is a strange report. A journalist let the cat out of the bag. He declares that Lawrence shows over anxiety in his movements and that he has not the support of the team, as might be imagined. Therefore, one was specially drawn to Larence, to seek any great save or palpable failure. The Press-box gives one a lovely view. The members of the Fourth Estate can see right over Stanley Park-when they get an opportunity of dropping the pencil though play being delayed a while. There is only one Press-box nearer the sky, and that is at Bramall lane, where the slight of the players bounding on to the field can be likened unto as marionette show.
It was hard luck that Makepeace sprained the muscles of his thigh in making a shot at Preston. Black ex Celtic was given his first trial with the senior rank. As play went, in the first quarter United displayed just slightly the better football. they gave us the best forward work one could wish to see, and it usually was originated by Rutherford, who led Crelly a lively dance. The triangle movements were executed with draughtboard like precision. And yet Goswell filled Temptletons place with excellent credit, and gave us next a delightful movement when he beat Black, and going along apace feinted to go towards the touchline and instead wended his way towards Scott. The visitors account was opened through Crelley apparently failing down and sitting on the ball. That Sharp should be responsible for the equaliser was quite a popular affair, and no doubt he offers his thanks to Young for a good centre, to McCombie for missing his mark, and to Lawrence for a palpable mistake. However, the goal came, and that was enough to think about. At half-time there was a level score of 1 each, a pretty accurate reflex of how the game went, though with anything like more accurate workmanship and less capable custodianship, United must have been in front. The second half was undoubtedly just a trifle more in favour of the home side than the hordes of the League Cup, but their marksmanship was at fault, and at centre-forward Young did not keep the wings going as well as did his vis-à-vis. The plucky county cricketer was always on the go, and compared very favourably with any of the men on the side, but the star that shone resplendently the whole afternoon was Rutherford, whose ability is simply remarkable. Football comes to him naturally. It is no effort to beat a man. He simply played a brainy game, and Crelley and Abbott will long remember the day he tumbled them so severely and with such persistence. The score just accurately tells the football world the merits of the sides, and yet one must extend a word of sympathy to the Evertonians, because they met a superior team, who played a rare good game against them. Still there is no getting away from the fact that Newcastle of the past three weeks were not the Newcastle of to-day. Their form is inexplicable. Individually Everton were best represented by Scott. W. Balmer, Sharp, Taylor, and Black. The last-named came with capital credentials, and he has justified them to the full. He displayed great “nous” in settling Gosnell and Orr. Taylor, for once in a way, was not accurate when he succeeded in getting possession of the ball. We expect a lot from Taylor. He is no persistently good. McCombie found his great long legs of the utmost value, and saved a certain goal, Lawrence being beaten. McCombie is not the McCombie of old; not at present, at any rate. The halves were all strong and the forward work was a treat to watch. To sum up, the better team got their deserts which, by the way, they did not get last year in the corresponding match, and both sides provided a glorious afternoon’s football, inglorious weather and on glorious turf.

NEWCASTLE’S CHANGE OF FORTUNE.
London Daily News - Monday 18 September 1905
Fine weather favoured the Everton v. Newcastle United match at Goodison Park. Everton made two changes from the previous Saturday, Settle and Black taking the places of McLoughlin and Makepeace. Harding played for the United instead Appleyard. During the opening half the exchanges wore fairly even. Howie scored for Newcastle, but Sharp equalised. For a time after the change of ends the United had the hotter of the play. But subsequently the exchanges were well fought out. Just before the finish Hogg got through, and Newcastle United won two goals to one.

SUCCESS OF THE NOVOCASTRIANS
Athletic News - Monday 18 September 1905
The success of the Novocastrians represents a gain of a couple of points on last season, and, having found their feet, it is not unreasonable to expect they will continue to make use of them.  It is a great achievement to vanquish a team like Everton on their own ground, but the triumph of the United had the merit of being well deserved.  It was gained by superior play, and was due in no small measure to the brilliant work of Rutherford, who played one of his finest games.  And when in from the international outside-right has few, if any, superiors.  Gosnell, too, was seen at his best, while the defence was of its old-time excellence.  Everton, on the other hand, were rather disappointing, the forwards being disappointed, but Scott kept a wonderful goal, and Taylor completely overshadowed Hardinge, the Kent cricketer, who made his first appearance in the Teesside team. However, many a player whose misfortune it was to suffer a partial or total eclipse neither similar circumstances has lived to become a celebrity, and Hardinge has seen too much of the luck which surrounds the game to be discouraged by Saturday’s failure. 
Everton were overplayed and beaten as thoroughly as the score against them would appear to demonstrate. Three men stood out prominently in the game - the two Irishmen, M'Cracken and Scott, and the right winger, Rutherford. If Scott can maintain the form exhibited since the season opened the departure of Roose will not be lamented. He has already shown his worth in the matches played during the present campaign, and some of his clearances against the Tynesiders were brilliant. The forwards have not yet got thoroughly into their stride. Sharp has not recovered from his cricketing experiences, and McDermott, up to the present, has failed to justify his selection. Everton appear to be a team not completely wound up, but the men are clever and capable, and they are not likely to cause the directorate much uneasiness as far as their League position is concerned. Whether they will prove as successful as was the case a year ago is a matter that cannot at present be satisfactorily answered.
Everton had to alter their intermediate line against Newcastle owing to Harry Makepeace spraining the muscles of his thigh at Preston week ago. This let in Black, a player signed on from the Celtic club during the close season.  He showed very promising form, and though somewhat on the slow side demonstrated that he had a capital idea of the game. In placing to his forwards he is extremely proficient, and only requires to become another yard or two speedier to develop into really good player.

REVIVAL OF THE CHAMPIONS.
Athletic News - Monday 18 September 1905
By Harricus.
There is one disadvantage in winning the Championship of the League—the high standard established is difficult to maintain over another season, and consequently disappointment follows. This is what Newcastle United have discovered, and, with never a victory accruing from their first four matches, it seemed hardly likely that they would commence winning matches at the home of the Everton club, who were only a point behind them in the Championship table last season. Yet this is what they did, for the score was 2—l in their favour at the finish, and I venture to predict that they will, notwithstanding their disappointing opening, win many more matches than they will lose. The attractiveness of the fixture, coupled with the fine weather, brought out a splendid attendance, the crowd numbering anything from 30,000 to 35,000, and though they must naturally have been very disappointed with the result, they could have no complaint as to the standard of the play, which was worthy of the reputations of the two teams. The Novocastrians lacked three of the Championship eleven, though only Hardinge, the Kent county cricketer, was an unknown quantity, Veitch coming in at centre half, while McCracken dropped in at right back, causing McCombie to cross over. On the Everton side Black, who came from the Celtic this season, displaced Makepeace, who has not recovered from his visit to Preston, though it was only at the eleventh hour that Black was introduced. From the very outset it was evident that we were in for a game of exceptionally high standard, though it was early evident that the visitors were the better balanced side, and the position of Lawrance was almost a sinecure. Just under fifteen minutes some beautiful inside play ended in Orr finding the net, but unfortunately he was just offside, and the referee did not possess sufficient sentiment to overlook the slight infringement. Directly afterwards Alexander Young had nothing to do but just touch the ball over the goal-line, with Lawrance away from his charge, but he was very slow, and M'Combie stepped in and kicked the ball away when it was lying almost under the cross bar. It was very annoying to the crowd. With eight minutes to go, the home defence was caught napping, and in a contest for the ball between Scott and Howie the Novocastrian won, and he placed his side ahead. They did not enjoy their lead long, however, for under three minutes the scores were equalized by Jack Sharp. Young sent the ball across to him, but M'Combie was certainly lax in his shadowing, with the result that Sharp had time to steady himself ere he dexterously slipped the ball past Lawrance. Everton made a better fight in the second half, with the result that the game was always open; indeed, everyone was prepared for a drawn game, but the last five minutes had just been entered upon when the Northerners recorded the goal which gave them both points. The trouble was inaugurated by Gosnell the Colchester young man who is so dangerous on the outside left. He found himself with the ball in a nice position, and just on-side. He made the most of his opportunity, and passing square to Hardinge, the centre forward in turn gave to Orr, who sent the ball across the goalmouth and into the far corner of the net out of the reach of Scott, who well beaten. Although it was rather hard on Everton to be beaten in the last five minutes, the Novocastrians must be given all credit for their victory, for undoubtedly they were the better side; indeed, I cannot understand their previous lack of success. However, on Saturday’s form they are not likely to make any more mistakes, and though I would rather some other club finished first for the good of the game, I am afraid that I shall not come across a better side. I was most favorably struck with the new men who have been brought into the team, and with a little encouragement McCracken and Veitch should develop into very capable players. I am reminded of the fact that one is an Irish International and the other a reserve English International, but for all that they are fighting for their places with the League champions. McCracken was the best full back on the field. He seems all legs, and his kicking in any position was good to see. He tackles well, too. Colin Veitch, who is used as a sort of handy man, is also worthy of regular participation in First Division football. He made Young appear quite an ordinary player, and their displays only go to show what a wonderful reserve the Newcastle United has on hand. Perhaps someday the pair will be regarded as regulars. The centre forward, Hardinge, is fresh to the team this season, and unlike the other two, has yet the win his spurs in the best class of football. In the first half he could do nothing right, but was simply helped along by the success of his colleagues. In the second half, however, he was an improved player. Early on he got in a pot shot which was decidedly dangerous, and again headed into the Everton goal like a real artist, while later on, after dodging his way past several opponents, he caused Scott to accomplish a brilliant save. Whilst not a startling success he may yet be polished as Appleyard was. At any rate, he possesses the knowledge. The display of Rutherford and Howie, on the right wing, was really entrancing, and the spectators could not help but admire them. A worthy international pair are they. Rutherford is a most natural player, and without apparent undue exertion gave Abbott and Crelley a worrying time. Howie and he have an understanding,  as had Gordon and Ross, Latta and Brady, Athersmith and Devey, Meredith and Finnerhan, and the Scotsman is a very dangerous shot. Orr was a very worrying inside left, and if Gosnell was not so prominent as I have seen him he put in excellent work. Gardner, at right half, was perhaps the pick of the half-backs, for McWilliam has done better, and the same may be said of McCombie, who has not that fire of old. Still there was not a weak man in the team, even if one or two were rather overshadowed by the brilliance of their colleagues. I am rather afraid that I have not left much room to criticize the Everton men. They lost, but they were not thrashed. They made the winners play for their points, though they certainly nave played better. The defence was good all round. Scott, like McCracken, is a living example of the injustice to Ireland, but with Roose out of the way his place in the team is assured. Balmer and Crelley kicked as hard as of yore, and are a very reliable pair. The star of the half-back line was John D. Taylor, a player whom I have seen take at least four positions with the club, and who is now the captain, despite his many years’ service. Hardinge found in him too great a stumbling block. Black was a most efficient substitute for Makepeace, his work being of the quiet, useful order rather than brilliant, and he is certainly a very useful man to fall back on. Settle was the best forward, and was a rare worker, often looking for it in the interests of his side. Jack Sharp did nothing in the first half, but put in some of his sparkling runs afterwards, and this pair, along with Hardman, formed the best of the Everton attackers, which, as a body, were much behind those of Newcastle. Everton;- Scott; Balmer,  Crelley;  Black, Taylor, Abbott;  Sharp, M'Dermott, Young, Settle, and H. P. Hardman. Newcastle United;- Lawrance; McCracken, McCombie; Gardner, Veitch, McWilliam; Rutherford, Howie, Hardinge, Orr, and Gosnell. Referee: A. G. Hines, Nottingham.

EVERTON 1 NEWCASTLE UNITED 2
September 18, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
EVERTON'S FIRST DEFEAT.
BRILLIANT DISPLAY BY THE LEAGUE CHAMPIONS.
Newcastle United on Saturday furnished a surprise at Goodison-park, which was not at all pleasant to Evertonians. In their previous matches the League champions had failed so lamentably to maintain their high standard of last season that few expected they would register their first victory on the Everton enclosure. AS a matter of fact in four games, three of which were at St.Jame's-park, they had only acquired two out of a possible eight points. Moreover, there were rumours of dissensions among the players, so that in the face of it everything pointed to a comfortable win for Everton. Unhappily for the latter the League champions returned to form in most astonishing fashion, and after one of the most brilliant expositions of the game seen in Liverpool for a considerable time past succeeded in obtaining their initial victory of the season. It is not the first occasion on which, the Novocastrians have specially reserved themselves for the Blues. Invariably they have been an absolutely their best behaviours at Goodison-park. The football public evidently had this in mind seeing that a great crowd, estimated at 35,000, witnessed the encounter. Certainly the League Champions did give of their beat, and on the day's play no one could begrudge them their success by two goals to one.
RUN OF THE PLAY.
Curiously enough this was the exact reverse of the result last season, when it will be remembered United had rather hard lines in being beaten. On Saturday the conditions were altogether favourable. The sun occasionally bothered the players, but it was an ideal afternoon for spectators, and as far as the state of the ground was concerned nothing could have been better. From the start it was evident that the spectators were in for a treat. First one side and then the other took up the running, but it was noticeable quite early on that the methods of the visiting team were superior to those of Everton, a feature being the remarkable understanding that prevailed between the United halves and forwards. The attacks of the champions were always incisive, and well directed, and it was fortunate for Everton that Scott was on the top of the form. On one occasion the Newcastle goal had a narrow escape from a centre by Hardman, but Lawrence as compared with Scott had a dull time. Most of the danger to Everton's goal came from the right wing. Rutherford in particular delights the crowd by masterly exhibitions. One really brilliant centre by him was badly mulled, but when a similar opportunity occurred Howie cleverly turned it to account. This was a damper to the Everton enthusiasts, but their spirits rose mightily when within a couple of minutes the ball came from left wing out to Sharp, who deceiving McCombie, equalised the score. With the teams on level terms there was a great struggle for supremacy during the second half. Everton were still unable to open out the play to their own particular liking, and their disjointed efforts were in marked contrast to the precision, which characterised their opponents. They exhibited plenty of dash, and at one period when four successive corners were awarded them it appeared as if the Newcastle goal must fall. However, the defence prevailed and again chiefly through Rutherford the Everton goal was subjected to severe pressure. Still it was not until five minutes from the finish, when everyone expected a draw, that Orr gave his the victory.
CRITCISMS OF THE PLAYERS.
It will be evident that the Everton men failed to do themselves justice. Perhaps the truer way of putting it would be that they met a team that fell into each other's methods with a minimum of efforts, and with remarkable success. On Saturday's display Newcastle United may still have hopes of retaining the championship, even although they were without such noted players as Appleyard, Veitch and Carr. In the centre Hardinge, the Kent centre cricketer, performed creditably, though he still has much to learn before he can lay claim to being a class centre forward. Gosnell on the outside left put in some pretty touches, but the bright star of the side was unquestionably Rutherford, whose exhibition on the right wing was one of the finest ever seen at Goodison-park. He seemed to be possessed of endless resource and on doubt Abbott and Crelly could ably testify this. The halves were excellent, and McCracken was the better of the two backs. As for Everton the forwards never really got going. They indulged in occasional brilliant flashes, but unfortunately those were not sustained. Young was not in the happiest vein, and for a wonder Hardman did not approximate his usual standard. The inside men, too, were uncertain, and Sharp were the pick of the bunch, although he was also in a fitful mood. Thus it was not surprising that the line as a whole did not produce good work. Black, the ex-Celtic player, made a creditable debut, as understudy to Makepeace, who was on the injured list, and once again Taylor, shone out most conspicuously in the half-way line. Taking into consideration the effective movements of the United forwards, Balmer and Crelly got through their work in fairly creditable fashion, and, as has been suggested, the display given by Scott could not have been excelled. Indeed, it was entirely due to his masterly exhibitions of goalkeeping that Everton did not suffer even a more pronounced defeat.
Teams: - Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Black, Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Newcastle United: - Gosnell, goal, Orr, Hardinge, backs, Howie, Rutherford, and McWilliams, half-backs, Veitch, Gardiner, McCombie, McCrackie, and Lawrence, forwards. Referee A.G.Hines.

ROSSENDALE UNITED 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
September 18, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 5)
Despite the fact that they had Collins in goal at Rossendale, Everton had to acknowledge another defeat, it may be said at once however, that the new custodian was by no means to blame for this latest reverse. As a matter of fact, he kept goal in fine fashion, and it was chiefly owing to his good work combined with sturdy defence on the part of Wildman, that the United were only one goal ahead at half-time. Everton quite failed to get going during the first half, and as a result their defence was kept busy, but Collins was only beaten once. Everton improved after the interval, but the forwards threw away some good openings although Rankin and Bernie made good efforts to secure the equalising goal. Play was very fast throughout, and some exciting play was witnessed in each goalmouth, but Everton could not get on terms. All though it was a case of the respective defences holding the upper hand of the attack, and in the end Rossendale claimed both points by reason of a goal to nil majority. Collins gave a good display, and on his form in this match should considerably strengthen the side. Everton: - Collins goal, Hill, and Hannan, backs, Chadwick, Wright, and Black half-backs Berbnie, McLoughlin, Oliver, Rankin and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON’S SENSATIONAL DEFEAT
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Monday 18 September 1905
HOW EVERTON WERE OUTED
Everton’s supporters were no doubt hugely disappointed at the victory of Newcastle United but as good sportsman, they would admit the better side won, and appreciate a well-contested and high-class game, the leading characteristics of which were highly scientific footwork, brilliant shooting of the Novocastrians a plethora of corners, and Scott’s superb custodianship. From the very outset the pace was hot, and it was obvious that the “Geordies” had thrown aside the inertness which had so far robbed them of valuable points. At any rate they kept at once into their stride, and showed subtle combination, power of finesse, and rapidity of movement, which was most exhilarating. Everton took up the challenge at once, and worthily. The defence on both sides was vigorous and energetic and attacks were rapidly conceived and carried out, and as rapidly repulsed. Seldom did either side show marked supremacy or maintain a lengthened attack. Yet the game never flagged nor was there a dull moment, as the leather was manoeuvred rapidly and deftly point to point. In the open field there was little to choose between either set of forwards; their command of the ball was of the superlative degree. But as the game progressed the superiority of the Novos became more marked. They showed more decision, and brought their plan of attack to a more rapid conclusion. They were always dangerous in finishing, and their final shots were made without delay and with remarkable precision. Such a correct understanding existed that frequently the quintet moved along from end to end as one man. On these occasions nothing could be more perfect than their method of attack. The defence on both sides naturally had a very busy time of it, and here, again, was shown workmanship of the highest order. Crelly was led a merry dance by Rutherford, who was in superb form, and is no doubt the most wonderful outside right in England. Abbott was in great form, too, and is to be congratulated on his successful efforts to outwit Rutherford and his clever partner. But the glory of the defence belongs to Scott. He was always alert, quick, and resourceful. Time after time Crelly and Balmer were circumvented by the rapid tactics of the Novocastrians front, but through every phase of the attack Scott never failed once. True, he was twice defeated, but no goalkeeper living could have done anything with Orr’s winning shot. Although the Blues were somewhat inferior, they might easily enough, with a little luck, have gained a couple of points. No member of the eleven exercises a more potent influence than Young. When the centre forward is going strong the Everton attack is irresistible. On Saturday he was off colour, and the Everton attack was proportionately out of gear. Soon after the start Hardman had Lawrence in difficulties and Young had the goal at his mercy; but somehow or other he failed to do the trick. Perhaps “Sandy” was so chagrined that he never got over it. On another occasion the Blues forced four successive corners and from the first Sharp shot, but McCracken in a manner which looked quite impossible, lifted the ball over the crossbar. But, though Everton maintained a fairly high level all through they never seemed to be quite sure when they had an opportunity, and invariably failed to complete their moves effectively. When Orr scored the winning goal no one expected him to shoot. Newcastle’s inside left must have summed up the possibilities in the fraction of a second and acted accordingly. As a matter of fact, the Newcastle left and centre had come away with a rare burst of speed, and in travelling Hardinge passed in to Orr. Words cannot adequately describe the rapidity and precision with which that pass was converted into a goal. Scott saw his danger, but the insider’s action was a masterpiece of purpose accurately and rapidly effected. Black is by no means a Makepeace, but he made his debut under trying circumstances, and showed that he is a half back of resource and quality. In the initial half he was probably nervous, but in the concluding half he was seen to very considerable advantage and like Abbott, will prove to be at unexpected moments a dangerous sharpshooter. To sum up, there is very little room for improvement on the Newcastle side, and they have probably commenced a series of victories such as made them a great reputation last year, and will soon carry them into the front rank again. To be beaten by such opponents is no disgrace, but with Settle and Young particularly in their usual dangerous form, we might expect Everton to be seen to more advantage in the future under similar conditions.
Combination Game
Everton had to put up with defeat in the Rossendale Valley district by an odd goal. Therefore, they will be able to sympathise all the greater with their seniors over the Newcastle defeat.

NEWCASTLE UNITED v  EVERTON
Newcastle Daily Chronicle - Monday 18 September 1905
TYNESIDERS BACK TO FORM
A WELL-MERITED SUCCESS
Newcastle United was engaged at Goodison Park, Liverpool, on Saturday afternoon, their opponents being the famous Everton team. It was the thirteenth contest between the clubs. Of the previous twelve Newcastle had won six, to Everton’s three, the remaining three being drawn. The performance of the teams up to Saturday were much different, for Everton, after beating Middlesbrough a fortnight ago at Liverpool by 4 to 1, draw last week at Preston; whilst Newcastle had lost to Sunderland and Sheffield and drawn with Manchester and Birmingham. Thus in two matches Everton had accrued three points, against two points in four games by United. The match was played off in glorious weather. There would be 18,000 spectators present when the rival teams turned out to a hearty burst of cheering. The spin of the coin fell in favour of Newcastle, and Young had to kick off against the wind and sun. after Gosnell had got the better of Makepeace, and put the ball across for Hardinge to miss his kick, the forwards of the home lot sprinted off in fine style, and, the right wing working through the opposing halves, the outside man got nicely into his corner, and swung the leather well in front of goal. Young dashed forward, but in his haste only succeeded in lifting the ball over the bar. The game was fast and furious, but slightly in favour of Everton. Makepeace had the misfortune after five minutes’ play to strain the muscle of his thigh. He kept pluckily on the field, however. The home forwards were going nicely together, when McDermott was tripped up, and a foul ensued. Although Everton made a vigorous onslaught on the Newcastle goal, they could not force the ball into the net, and at length McCracken relieved the pressure with a huge kick. Newcastle in turn attacked, and Orr, receiving a favourable pass from his partner, sent in a good shot. He almost forced Scott to his knees. Keeping up the pressure, Newcastle kept the Everton defence busy till an erratic shot from the toe of Hardinge relieved the pressure. From the kick Everton came away, but were checked by Veitch. Newcastle were again forging ahead, when Abbott interposed, and kicked out to the right wing pair, who covered some ground before they were robbed by McCracken. A foul in favour of Everton let the homesters in nicely, but McCracken and McCombie were all there, and repulsed the repeated efforts of the Evertonians. At length the visitors took up the running, and for a time were very aggressive. Hardinge was conspicuous for a good shot, which was heartily cheered by the crowd, who waxed enthusiastic as the home forwards swarmed round Lawrence’s charge. But the defence prevailed, and the homesters being driven out, Newcastle took up the running for a time. Although they got in several times, they failed to find the net. End to end play, in which both goals were pressed ion turn, proved very exciting. Young looked like scoring, when he got through, and when he ahd only the goalkeeper in front of him. But he shot right into Lawrence’s hands, and although the shot came fast, it was easily cleared. The visitors returned to the assault a minute later, and Rutherford seemed likely to get through and score when he was tripped just outside the penalty line. The free kick was not turned to advantage, Taylor kicking clear. The visitors were playing a dashing game, and time after time carried the ball into their opponents’ end of the field, but were invariably met by a good defence which, however, it must be conceded, on more than one occasion was favoured by fortune. Once, for instance, the ball was shot in by Rutherford, when Scott was out of goal; but one of the home backs deflected it outside, and the corner was unproductive. Then a grand shot by Newcastle was only partially cleared by Scott, but the ball, instead of going into the net struck the post, and cannoned back into play. In the majority of cases the shot would have scored. The next few minutes saw the homesters pressing, and, persevering, they gained a corner, which was no more successful than those that had preceded it. Again Everton was on the move, but could not drive their attack home, and a free kick was all that availed for their energy. Newcastle once more got close in, but when in front of goal they seemed uncertain what to do, with the result that they lost more than one good opportunity in making up their minds. Everton pulled themselves together, and their forwards worked strenuously to score, but for some time, try as they would, they failed to make any possible impression on the Newcastle goal. They made run after run, and shot after shot, but Lawrence was not to be beaten, and Gosnell created a kind of diversion by a rapid run along the wing. He was, however, successfully tackled by Makepeace, and the ball was returned to mid-field, Newcastle were combining brilliantly, and reward was bound to crown their efforts. At length Howie did the trick, beating Scott with a good shot. Everton retaliated, and hardly had the cheers died away after the first goal than Sharp threaded his way through all opposition and equalised. McCracken was prominent for some fine defensive work, and at length he managed to clear the danger, and for a time play hovered in the vicinity of the centre line. Then a smart run by Sharp enlivened things up. He passed when close in, and Settle tried to more with a shot which went wide. After this McCombie transferred play, and some undecisive work ended in favour of the defenders, who got clean away, only to be brought to a standstill. After several throws-in, the visitors resumed the attack, but the home defence was steady, and repulsed every effort. Some smart interchanges followed, and for a time play was brisk. A good passing movement by the visitors culminated in a corner, but, although this was well played by Gosnell, Hardinge could only head the ball over. Hardinge was going through on his own, but Crelly intercepted, and kicked away to Sharp, who in turn ran down, but his centre was not utilised. A corner to Everton, and also a foul close to Newcastle’s goal, were of little avail, for Lawrence punched away a good shot from Young, and the ball was rapidly carried to the other end. Here Scott had to meet some dangerous shots, but he got through his task very creditably. McWilliam robbed McDermott, just as he was getting dangerous and “hands” against Balmer let the visitors in; and but for the timely interposition of Crelly a goal might have occurred.
Half-time; Everton 1 goal, Newcastle United 1 goal.
Crossing over, Everton brought steady pressure to bear on the Newcastle goal, and for a time monopolised the play; but their shooting was none of the best, and at length they were forced to retire without scoring. Again came the visitors, and some splendid passing carried them right into their opponents’ quarters, where they proved to be very dangerous. Orr hit the upright with a rasping shot, and, after Scott had twice handled the attack was concluded by the ball going outside. Everton were next to the fore, and Settle forced McWilliam to concede a corner. Hardman dropped the ball just in front, and Young, getting his head to it, headed right on to the top of the net. Midfield play followed, and several fouls marred the progress of the game, but at length the Everton right wing got going, and Sharp, receiving a well-timed pass from his inside man, got into his corner and centred across; but Lawrence rushing out, kicked away. With a rush the visitors came away, and Gosnell was getting very dangerous when he was bowled over by Balmer. The Newcastle halves were now prominent in breaking up several promising rushes by the home front line, and then, after a short spell, Everton got to business, and, passing nicely along the line, they swept down in brilliant fashion on the Newcastle goal. Settle was the one to get in position, but he shot too rashly, and some good work was thrown away.  “Hands” against Crelly changed the venue, and this time Scott was called upon to handle a warm shot from the toe of Hardinge. Again was he called upon by Hardinge, and again did he clear well. Play slowed down somewhat for a time and nothing of moment occurred. Once or twice Newcastle got away, but a long while they made no tangible impression. Then at last, pulling themselves together, Orr, amid cheers from the visitors in the crowd, gave Newcastle the lead.
Final;- Newcastle United 2 goals, Everton 1 goal.
Everton.- Scott; W. Balmer and J. Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Newcastle United; Lawrence, goal; McCracken and McCombie, backs; Gardner, Veitch, and McWilliam, half-backs; Rutherford, Howie, Hardinge, Orr, and Gosnell, forwards.

GENUINE SURPRISES
Liverpool Echo - Monday 18 September 1905
Bee
‘Tis seldom in life one comes across a man who can do what he ought to do when he ought to, whether he likes it or not. Saturday’s entrancing football at Goodison Park showed us one player who could satisfactorily fulfil the above problem. He is Rutherford, the outside right of Newcastle United. He has a grand conception of his duties as extreme wing man, and I never wish to witness finer footwork than that which he gave the huge crowd on Saturday. There is no labour, no apparent effort on his part to beat the opposing half or back. He beats his adversary with his brain work, and yet does not dwell at any time. He would seem to forecast his movement as the ball travels towards him. His object lesson, let us hope, was not lost on the home club, who cannot complain that they did not have opportunities.
Newcastle found Scott in finest form. The Irish international has so far shown himself every bit as good as Roose, and I like his manner of doing his work better than L.R’s fanciful style. Roose was a grand custodian, and made his saves sometimes more difficult than they really were, besides which- and most important of all-he exceeded the bounds of reason when he ran out yards and an unguarded goal yawned before his opponents. Scott is cool as a cucumber, and accurately anticipates where a forward’s shot will be likely to drop. His manner of saving the hand-high shot from Rutherford in the first half, and when he threw himself full length to tap out one from Howie was something to be remembered for seasons to come. Bravo, Scott !
Newcastle by using their opportunities got two goals through, and Everton have only themselves to blame for letting slip by the most glorious chances. Young needs rest. We must not expect him to play satisfactorily if he is being patched up for colds and achings. McDermott is not giving us anything to enthuse about. He can- if he will- and he will when he learns that United style of receiving the ball on the run- not waiting for the ball to reach him-dashing off and occasionally shooting at goal. Inside forwards have greater opportunities of scoring than a pivot, and I fail to recollect that McDermott even tried more than one shot on Saturday. Hardman and Settle had an off-day, which is unusual, and therefore further comment is not deserved.
Sharp was a moderate “best” of an irregular line that gave Lawrence a shot worthy the name of a shot in ninety minutes! A contemporary said in its report that both goalkeepers were severely teste. Why, Lawrence only handled the ball five times all told!
Coming to the halves, I think Everton have found a plum in Black. He is the very opposite class to Makepeace, and in leading up attacks and forcing them to success he was a trifle slow. The fact was Black was playing a typical Scotch game; that game that is more methodical and carefully planned than swift and sprightly and flashlike. His first appearance may be rightly writ down as “very fine indeed.” The backs were good and had in turn, Balmer being the better on the day. Newcastle have a fine body of fellows of sound physique and with a good average height, and every man of them showed a great idea of how to pass the ball to his neighbour with advantage. McCracken was better than McCombie by far, and his great forte is ability to clear at awkward angles. Those long-striding legs seemed everywhere at the right moment. It was a delightful exhibition of football as it should be played, and the result was a nice representation of the merits of the sides.
ANSWERS TO READERS
Liverpool Supporter- Everton playing pitch is 118 yards by 75 yards, and Liverpool 115 by 71 ½

ASHERTON CHURCH HOUSE 2 EVERTON RESERVES 4
September 19 1905. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 6)
Played at Atherton. The home side pressed at the start, but the visitor's better combination enabled them to clear the danger and get to the other end. Horrous headed through from a pass by Owen, and another goal fell to Atherton, a little later, the ball rebounding through off Hamner. Rankin scored for Everton, after fine forward work. Interval Atherton 2 goals, Everton 1. Ten minutes after the resumption Oliver equalised, and Hamer put Everton ahead near the close, and Everton eventually winning by four goals to two.

LANCASHIRE COMBINATION DIVISION A
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Tuesday 19 September 1905
ATHERTON CHURCH HOUSE v  EVERTON RESERVE
At Atherton, before a capital attendance. The home side made play from the kick-off and Short headed through after three minutes’ play. Jackson repelled an attack by the Everton forwards and Collins saved a capital shot by Lucas. At the other end Horrocks got a second for Atherton, and Rankin scored for the visitors.
Interval; Atherton 2 goals, Everton 1 goal.
Rankin equalised ten minutes after the resumption, and Wright got a third.
Result Everton 4 goals, Atherton 2 goals.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 19 September 1905
“Spectator’s” version of the Everton v. Newcastle match- Could anyone present at this match have any faith in the eleven (bar Scott) representing Everton making much progress in the League journey? The defeat of Everton was really the best thing that could have happened, as it cannot fail to bring home to the committee the absolute necessary of introducing fresh blood into the team. Certainly a club with such “gates” and finances should give better value to their supporters! But money evidently is not everything. It seems to me that the committee overlooked the fact that Roose was the great mainstay last season and without him the deficiencies of the others ten are now glaringly apparent. It is my chief object in writing to ask you to point out and to criticise freely the men’s shortcomings. The public look for you, sir to give an unprejudiced view and point the remedy. I have before now, although the season is quite in its infancy pointed out that the increase of the number of the League clubs points to the axiom that the clubs best served with reserve talent will come out on top at the end of the competition. Look at the composition of the teams to which reference is made. Newcastle had three reserves doing duty one an Irish international, another chosen as first ‘national reserve, the other an unknown. The first McCracken, could not have been improved upon; the second Veitch, did most useful work; and Hardinge, for so young a footballer, played a creditable centre forward game. A Newcastle friend said to me, Hardinge is playing badly, and wasting good work” Ah, yes. In the first half he did not do marvellous works, and in the second he improved appreciably. My friend must have had Appleyard looming greatly in his eye. Would Hardinge have made any difference to the home forwards, supposing he had played for them? I fancy he would. Now, Everton had one reserve, Black, who contributed very useful work. What would have happened had Everton to find substitutes for the left back, centre forward, and centre half? Would they have had men they could have dropped in as United did, without fear of their disorganising the eleven? No. Everton want two class forwards to draw on- players of good build, and with some height about them. The reserve talent at hand- judging by the reserves’ results-does not suggest great possibilities. Teams will have to draw largely on their reserve sources, for very few players will last out the whole of the forty engagements even barring accidents. As for “Spectator’s” request to “criticise freely,” I have only to remark that my aim has been, and will be, to criticise fairly, and give condemnation or praise as the play may merit.

A TRADE DISPUTE.
Sheffield Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 20 September 1905
Yesterday at Liverpool, Frank Sugg, the ex- Lancashire county cricketer, and Jack Sharp, the Everton footballer and Lancashire county cricketer, ' both dealers in athletic accessories were plaintiff and defendant respectively in a case dealing with the sale of footballs. Counsel for plaintiff said that Sugg sought an injunction to restrain the defendant, his servants or agents, from advertising or offering for sale under the name of Zug,” or under any other description of like character, any football of other goods which have not been manufactured by the plaintiff, or front passing off or attempting to pass off any football or other goods not of plaintiff s manufacture as of the plaintiff s manufacture, or in any way representing such articles as being manufactured the plaintiff. He explained that an order was sent to Mr. Sharp for a "Sugg" football, and one was sent in return which was not of plaintiff's manufacture, but which had the words, "Zug" registered," upon it. It was a trap order, bit it had succeeded. The defendant admitted in an affidavit having misread the order, and raised some question as to a right to use the word "Zug: because it was applied to leather. He pressed for an interim injunction, because the football season had just commenced, but the motion would have to stand over until he could reply to an affidavit. Sharp's counsel was prepared to give an undertaking not to pass off any goods not of plaintiff's manufacture as of his manufacture. He would give that with pleasure on the understanding that it was not used for advertisement purposes. On these conditions the motion was adjourned for a fortnight the understanding to stand for that period. Another action of a similar nature, Sugg b. Wills and Co, of Oldham, was also postponed on the same terms.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 20 September 1905
A letter from “One of the Crowd”- I would like to say a word or two on “Spectator’s” letter re the Everton club. While agreeing with him that Saturday’s defeat will perhaps be a blessing in disguise, is he not rather inconsistent in exonerating Scott from all blame, and in the next breath remarking that Roose was the mainstay of the team last season, and that his absence has the effect of showing up the deficiencies of the other ten players? Does he mean this as a reflection upon Scott? If so, I am afraid I cannot agree with him. I consider Scott one of the finest keepers in English football to-day. Not so flashy as Roose, perhaps, but every bit as reliable, and in some respects decidedly superior. I do not think it fair to start blaming the committee at so early an hour. Let us give them a proper chance. Last Saturday’s display has had the effect of pointing out the weak spots in the team, and I have sufficient confidence in the committee to trust them to find the necessary remedy. With regard to your own criticism I have always found them perfectly fair and outspoken in every branch of sport, and it is quite superfluous for “Spectator” to appeal to you in this respect.

CHARITY AT SOUTHPORT
Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 21 September 1905
At Southport Central ground yesterday afternoon a gala was organized in aid of the local infirmary. Among the attractions was a football match between Central and Everton which had been arranged principally through the good offices of the Mayor Councilor Trounson, whose special fund for the institution supported by yesterday's fete has reached $400. It will be largely swelled by the proceeds of admission money yesterday. Little seriousness could be attached to the football which all through was unattended with exciting phrases. Chorlton opened the scoring for the Sandgrounders. To those who delight in recording coincidences it may be of interest to mention that the arrival of the Lord Major of Liverpool on the grandstand was immediately signalized by a goal for Everton, who had wholly a reserve side -the latter detail a circumstance of much disappointment after a First League side had been advertised. Oliver was responsible for the point and before the interval the same player gave Everton the lead. Subsequently this was neutralized by Willie and when the end came honours were even with two goals each.

EVERTON TEAMS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 21 September 1905
Bee
There will simultaneously be a great contest at Aston Villa’s ground, where Everton will be the visitors. The selection of the team  will not be surprising to the Liverpool public. The directors have wisely decided to rest McDermott, and give McLoughlin another opportunity. McDermott’s play for three matches has not warranted his inclusion. There was a time when he could be depended on to feed Sharp accurately, but after last Saturday even this good point is an uncertain quantity. There is another alteration, inasmuch as Makepeace is sound in limb again, and causes the dropping of Black the Celt. A prominent official told me after Saturday’s deserved defeat that the Villa would have a warm time on Saturday as a consequence of two points being stolen from Goodison. I trust they will win, and this repay for that unlucky loss in the corresponding match last year.
“I feel that in writing to you I have an opportunity of ventilating what I think is a grievance,” says Liverpolitan.” “I was present at the Everton match on Saturday, and was pleased to notice from the scores placed on the notice-board that Liverpool were holding their own at half-time, and at the end of the match noticed that the score was put up as 1-1; but subsequently found out on leaving the ground that Liverpool won by 2 goals to 1. This is not the first occasion by many when I have observed the same thing done.” 
I happen to know that the officials have, inquired into the error, and there is little fear of a similar occurrence.

ST HELENS RECREATIONS 3 EVERTON RESERVES 2
September 22, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Senior Cup Round One.
Everton sent a strong reserves team to St.Helens last night to take part in the first round of the Lancashire Senior Cup. The start was sensational, as Everton, who had the assistance of the wind, soon got into strides, and the ball was placed out to Rankin, who had a clear course, and dribbling to the goal line, he centred to Oliver, who neatly put the leather past Roughley. Straight away from the kick off weak back play by the visitors gave Clarke an opportunity, of which he took full advantage, and centring under the posts, Dagnall neatly headed through, thus equalising the scores five minutes from the start. A capital run and shot by Dilly was the nest item of interest, but Roughley cleverly diverted the ball over the bar. For some time play was confined principally to the Rec's half, but Roughley kept a capable goal. The Recs temporarily lost the services of Martin, who was laid hors de combat in a collision with Dilly. A race for possession between R.Balmer and Evans resulted in favour of the Recs man, who rattled the side of the net with a terrific shot. Then Dilly centred across, and Oliver neatly hooked the ball into the net out of Roughley's reach, giving Everton the lead. Roberts had a chance of equalising, but shot high over the bar. Evans also headed over from a centre by Clarke, At the interval Everton led by 2 goals to 1. On restarting Evans lost a beautiful opportunity by shooting wide from a clever centre by Clarke. Oliver had a clear run through, but Roughley neatly intercepted his shot and cleared. The game was very evenly contested, but after thirty minutes play the Recs lost Evans, who met with an injury to the leg. The Recs, however, soon afterwards equalised, Roberts putting through after Collins had left his goal, and three minutes from the close Dagnall defeated Collins at close quarters. Final Result St Helen's Recs 3 goals, Everton 2. Teams: - St Helens Recreations: - Roughley, goal, Burden and Clegg, backs, Hunter, Martin, and Patten half-backs, Clarke, Kearns, Roberts, Dagnell, and Evans, forwards. Everton: - Collins goal, R.Balmer, and Hannan, backs, Black, Chadwick, and Abbott, half-backs, Rankin McLoughlin, Oliver, Cooke, and Dilly, forwards. Referee T.P.Campbell.

EVERTON FAIL IN A CUP TIE
London Daily News - Friday 22 September 1905
Everton paid a visit to St. Helens, and there met the Recreation team in the first round of the Lancashire Cup competition. Playing with the wind, Everton started well, Oliver scoring in two minutes, but directly afterwards Dagnall equalized. Everton pressed hard several times, but were met by a strong defence. Eventually Oliver scored again, Everton leading at the interval by two goals to one. Thanks to the fine play of their goalkeeper, the home team prevented any further score, and Roberts and Dagnall adding two points for them, St. Helens Recreation won by three goals to two.

LANCASHIRE SENIOR CUP
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Friday 22 September 1905
ST. HELENS RECREATION v.  EVERTON
Everton sent their Combination team to St. Helens yesterday afternoon, to meet the Recreation team in the first round of the competition for the Lancashire Senior Cup, with the addition of Abbott at left half. There were about 1,000 spectators present when the match started, but before it finished the number had considerably increased. The teams were as follows;-
Recreation.- Roughley, goal; Burden and Clegg, backs; Patten, Martin, and Hunter, half-backs; Clarke, Kearns, Roberts, Dagnall, and Evans, forwards.
Everton.- Collins, goal; R. Balmer and Hannan, backs; Black, Chadwick, and Abbott, half-backs; Rankin, McLoughlin, Oliver, Cooke, and Dilly, forwards.
Referee, Mr. T.P. Campbell, Blackburn.
Everton played with the slope in their favour at the commencement, and after a brief visit to their half by the home forwards Rankin visit to their half by the home forwards Rankin got away, and found an opening for Oliver, who banged the ball into the net. This early success for the visitors apparently had no effect on the Recs, as they went off with great dash, and Clarke centred to Dagnall, who gave Collins no chance with a smart header. Matters were thus equal, and Dilly then became dangerous, but Martin stopped the ball, being laid out for a few minutes in consequence. Rankin got in some clever work, and sent the ball across to Cooke, who shot, but Roughly cleared. The home forwards got going, and Dagnall passed to Clarke, who was upset when he had reached a nice position. Although the home team were obviously not as smart as their opponents, they made up for this by their determination and hard work, Evans on one wing and Clarke on the other being repeatedly prominent. Clarke got away, but when he seemed to have a nice opening he fell. Evans next had a chance, but Balmer tackled him in fine style, and the visitors forwards went away with a nice passing run, which ended in McLoughlin shooting wide. They returned to the attacks, and some pretty work between Abbott and Oliver resulted in the latter putting Everton ahead. The Recs, strove hard to improve their position and made some dangerous movements, but the defence was too good for them; while on the other hand, Everton had the hardest luck more than once. On one occasion Cooke had the goal at his mercy, but stepped on the ball, which he lost. Just before the interval the Recs attacked with great spirit, and Clarke put in a magnificent shot which Collins fisted away. Evans met the ball, but sent it over the bar, and half-time came with Everton leading by 2 goals to 1.
Resuming, with the slope in their favour, the Recs went off at a merry bat, but they were repulsed and Rankin broke away again, giving the ball to Oliver, who tried to head into the net. Durden clearing. Roughley was now called on several times, but he proved perfectly safe, getting away some hot shots. The home front rank against became dangerous, and Clarke sending the ball across to Evans he had the goal practically at his mercy, but sent the leather wide. Oliver then tested the Recs,’ custodian with a stinging shot, but he safely dealt with it. The Recs, lost the services of Evans, whose knee was injured, and after this the visitors’ forwards made their appearance in front of goal, McLoughlin having a ridiculously easy chance, but he shot wide. The next instant the Recs’ forwards were at the other end, and Collins failing to fist out a hot shot Roberts banged the ball into the net, thus equalising. A few minutes before the finish the Recs again attacked and Dagnall scored a fine goal.
Final; St. Helens Recreation 3 goals, Everton 2.

FEATURES OF FOOTBALL
Liverpool Echo - Friday 22 September 1905
Bee
Everton go to the famous Villa Park, where they will be met by thirteen persons donning the claret and blue jerseys, the difference of two being made up by the young gents who stand at the back of the goalposts, so that the goalkeeper will not have to sprint twenty yards each time the ball passes outside. The visitors will not lack support, for there will be some hundreds making the journey to Birmingham to see what is always a capitally contested game, and somewhat similar to that seen last week at Everton. In the forward lines operating are some of the trickiest players in the country. Everton’s attacking portion includes four internationals, and the Villa have Brawn, Bache, and Garratty.
These facts are not overlooked by the football follower and a game out of the ordinary class will be looked forward to. One of the Everton officials says pretty confidently that the result of Newcastle’s surprise will be Everton’s surprise on the Villa. He formerly assisted the club valiantly and were he able to turn out again, one could reply on him at least putting extraordinary dash into the game. However, his playing days are over, and he must need much to go on the greensward and help to get goals without being able to satisfy his longings. Villa have a fine side, the same that carried through at the Crystal Palace and last week’s form will yet be proved all wrong. When local rivals meet anything may happen. This just reminds me that the Liverpool Derby Day (first offences or fence, whichever you like) comes off on Saturday week, and the Everton club are already actively engaged in making elaborate arrangements to rope with a monster crowd. In response to many applications, they are reserving the whole of the 2s 6d seats these are reserved and numbered on the grand stand, and an resulting a limited number of tickets for the shareholders stand at 4s each. The gates will opened at 1.30.
Important alterations in the team come to hand as this page foes to press. As Abbott was hurt last night, Black as in the halves; and McLoughlin has caught a cold, so that Rankin is to partner Sharp.
At Goodison to-morrow Ripley Athletic will make their first appearance. They are a good side from Derbyshire, and the County and Villa generally contrive to pluck their ripe plums. Collins, ex-West Ham, will appear before the home critics for the first time.
Everton like Liverpool, have said “Goodbye” to the Lancashire Senior Cup. They took a Combination team to St. Helens and included Abbott in the ranks. Recs were one behind at the interval, and Roberts equalised later, Collins falling in fisting a shot. The Recs quite surprised the Blues towards the end with their determination, and Dagnall at length beat Collins and settled matters, which ended with the score 3-2 Oliver gained both Everton goals.
Another letter about custodianship “Neutral” a nom de plume I wish many more readers would quality for sends me the following.-
“I have read with interest the letters which have appeared in your column this week from “Spectator” and “One of the Crowd” re the Everton team. Whilst not wishing to enter at all seriously into the matter, it would nevertheless not be uninteresting to know how “One of the Crowd” accounts for the committee, in whom he appears to place his confidence, giving last season he preference to Roose over Scott to guard the breach, if in his estimation the latter is in some respects decidedly superior to Roose. From his version it would seem the better man was left out, and yet “One of the Crowd” pins his faith in the committee.
Teams arrangements
Aston Villa v Everton
League game, at Birmingham, kick-off 3.30
Everton leave Lime-street at 10.5
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Black, half-backs; Sharp, Rankin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Ripley Athletic
At Goodison Park 3.30
Everton.- Collins, goal; Hill and Hannan, backs; Ritchie, Dodd, and Donaldson, half-backs; Birnie, G. Rankin, Oliver, Jenkins, and McCartney, forwards.

CHARITY FETE SOUTHPORT.
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Saturday 23 September 1905
A SUCCESSFUL FUNCTION.
On Wednesday on the Southport Central football ground, there was fete and gala in aid the local Infirmary. The festivities were organized by influential committee of local ladies, headed the Mayoress, Mrs. Trounson, and Lady Pilkington. A ‘large and fashionable gathering, which included the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, the Mayor of Birkenhead, and Sir George and Lady Pilkington. Occupied the grand stand. The proceedings included football match between Everton and Central, ending draw two goals each. A mixed hockey match between sides selected by Miss Hamar. Daughter of the Town Clerk Preston, and Mr. Jack Holden, was won by the latter team two goals one. In cricket match between team of ladies-and eleven gentlemen, the ladies declared 38 for one wicket. Miss Leach making not out, while the gentlemen scored for four wickets. An exhibition of gymnastic drill and Morris dancing the boys the Birkdale Farm School, who brought their band, elicited hearty approval, did some. Costume dances girls from Holy Trinity School. The band the 3rd V.B.K.L.R. also enlivened the proceedings with music. Apart from the amount realized admission money, the Mayor's special fund has how reached £400.' Mrs. Barker, of the Queen's Hotel, provided afternoon tea, and the receipts therefrom were added to the funds. In the evening Sit George Pilkington entertained the football teams and officials at dinner.

FOOTBALL GOSSIP
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Saturday 23 September 1905
Everton go to Villa Park to-day with a very weak side. Abbott was hurt at St. Helens his ankle being kicked, and McLoughlin has a bad cold. Black will be given another trial, this time at left half, and Rankin will play outside right.
Liverpool Derby Day comes off on Saturday week, and the Everton club are already actively engaged in making elaborate arrangements to cope with a monster crowd. In response to many applications they are reserving the whole of the 2s 6d seats-these are reserved and numbered on the grand stand- and are issuing a limited number of tickets for the shareholders’ stand, at 4s each. The gate will be opened at 1.30.
At Goodison Park Ripley Athletic will make their first appearance. They are a good side from Derbyshire, and the County and Villa generally contrive to pluck their ripe plums. Collins, ex-West Ham, will appear before the home critics for the first time.
Aston Villa v Everton
League game, at Birmingham, kick-off 3.30
Everton leave Lime-street at 10.5
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and Crelley, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Black, half-backs; Sharp, Rankin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Everton Reserve v Ripley Athletic
At Goodison Park 3.30
Everton.- Collins, goal; Hill and Hannan, backs; Ritchie, Dodd, and Donaldson, half-backs; Birnie, G. Rankin, Oliver, Jenkins, and McCartney, forwards.

EVERTON v  ASTON VILLA
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 23 September 1905
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
ANOTHER DEFEAT FOR EVERTON
The meeting of Everton and Aston Villa are very properly looked upon as being among the principal fixtures of the season, both teams having great records and having fought each other on many memorable occasions. The Evertonians were due at Villa Park this afternoon and an exceptionally interesting game was anticipated, especially in view of the fact that both clubs suffered defeat last week. It was generally held that each side would to-day try to make some amends, and a stiff fight was therefore certain. The Evertonians left home early this morning, and Birmingham was reached at noon. There was a reshuffling of the team owing to the dropping of McDermott and an injury to Abbott. The former’s place was filled by Rankin, and Black who deputised for Makepeace last week, crossed over and did similar service for Abbott this afternoon. The Villa were at full strength, Pearson reappearing for Wilkes. The weather though fine was rather cold and gloomy, but this did not prevent a great crowd from putting in an appearance, and the famous enclosure was well filled when the men faced each other in the following order;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain) and Black, halves; Sharp, Rankin, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Villa.- George, goal; Spencer (captain) and Miles, backs; Pearson, Leake, and Windmill, halves; Brown, Garratty, Hampton, Bache, and Hall, forwards.
Referee; Mr. M. Whittaker, of London.
25,000 people were present when the rival captains tossed for choice of end. Jack Taylor named the coin correctly, and the Villa started against a slight breeze. The visitors got the better of the opening exchanges, and Hardman and Settle at once responded with some clever play on the left. The amateur, after being carefully checked by Pearson, swung the ball across to Sharp, but the Lancashire cricketer was offside when he shot. The home side immediately made ground, and the three inside men looked exceedingly dangerous when Taylor fell back to the assistance of Balmer and Crelly, who cleared. Young getting possession ran down well, and the home defence was troubled for a time. Spencer, however, cleared his lines, and the Villans moved away in splendid style. The ball was centred magnificently by Hall, and Garratty rushing in headed it into Scott’s hands, but was offside when he did so. There then followed a long and sustained attack upon the Everton goal, the home forwards showing great keenness and determination, but the Everton defence was thoroughly sound, and after a time Sharp and Rankin broke away. The latter put into the goalmouth, but Miles cleared finely, and when the visitors returned to the attack a moment later Spencer saved the situation by a magnificent individual effort. Play so far had been very even in character, neither side enjoying any particularly advantage, and both goals were visited in rapid succession, but without anything of importance happening. The Villa however, were a little cleverer than their opponents, and once Hampton, after completely beating Balmer, shot outside. The Evertonians then took up the attack, and for a time both Spencer and Miles were hard pressed, but there was too much hesitation when in front of goal, and many fine opportunities of scoring were thus lost. Still the visitors kept pegging away, and a pretty movement on the right ended in Rankin’s striking the cross-bar, Settle dashed up to catch the rebound, but Pearson was too quick for him, and cleared the danger with a huge punt. After this there was a spell of midfield work, in which honours were pretty evenly divided. The Everton men gradually gained ground, and Hardman put the leather to Young, but the centre was obviously offside when he shot into George’s arms.  A clever move on the part of Bache and Hall kept Balmer and Makepeace busy, but the latter was very tricky, and several times he stopped the progress of the Villa left wing. From a throw in by Makepeace the visitors were afforded an excellent opportunity, but Hardman shot ridiculously wide of the mark. The pace was now much slower than before, and there was a lot of fiddling near the centre line. The Villa at length moved forward in good order, but Hampton was offside when he attempted to net the ball. Coming to the attack again, Brown was too clever for both Black and Crelly, and, moving round the latter, centred beautifully, but before Hampton could reach the ball Balmer had stepped in and cleared. Taylor then gave his forwards possession, and some exceedingly pretty footwork was seen on the part of the Everton quintette. Hardman, running down the wing, gave to Rankin, but the latter was pulled over by Leake just as he was about to shoot. At this time the Evertonians were enjoying the best of the argument, but they invariably finished badly. A neat movement by the three inside men completely baffled the home backs, and Settle had an open goal in front of him, when he shot yards wide. A free kick to the visitors let them in again, and after Sharp had lost possession Settle tried to work his way through, but Windmill stepped in and punched clear. The Villa then made play on the left, and this time their efforts were crowned with success, though there was a great element of luck in it. Following upon a throw-in near the corner flag, Bache lobbed the ball into the goalmouth. Balmer rushed at it to clear, but in doing so he only turned the leather aside, which flanked off him into the net. Scott having no chance of dealing with it. This success put the home side in fine feather, and they at once made another dangerous onslaught. Hampton had the ball at his foot, and looked very dangerous when he was grassed by Balmer, and the game was momentarily delayed. On resuming Everton worked down on the right, but the Villa defence was astonishingly good, and Miles quickly gave relief. This was followed by an advance on the part of the home front rank, and Garrity, when in a fine position for shooting, put in a very feeble attempt, causing Scott no trouble. Good work by Hardman and Settle looked promising for Everton, and then the amateur centred well, out Rankin was just too late to reach the pass, with the result that Leake solved the difficulty. Towards half-time the Villa attacked strenuously, and fine work by the left wing ended in a corner. This was well place, and a terrific scrimmage in front of Scott ensued, the custodian finally clearing in brilliant fashion. Still the home forwards pressed strongly, and Hampton put in a splendid shot, which the visitors’ goalkeeper cleared marvellously. Spencer who had been previously damaged, at this point left the field, and Pearson fell back to partner Miles, though not before the home side had tried a spell of the one-back game. A series of free kicks to the Villa caused the Everton defence great anxiety, and twice Taylor came to the rescue in his own inimitable way. A free kick close in gave Everton the advantage, but Crelly had only just despatched the leather towards George when the whistle sounded for half-time, and a very fine forty-five minutes’ play found the Villa leading by 1 goal to nil.
Half-time score Aston Villa 1 Goal, Everton Nil.
When the game was resumed, Spencer was able to come out again. The home side began in sensational fashion, for they broke away on the right, and Brown putting to Bache, the latter had a clear goal before him, when he missed the chance. Everton at once took up the running, and for a time the home goal was in jeopardy, and the whole forward line worked the leather down in capital style, and they were within short range, when the whole movement was spoiled through Ranking sending wide. At this time the sun came out, and the spectacle of the crowded arena was a most imposing one. The Villa persisted in their attacks on the Everton goal, and clever work landed in Hampton shooting with tremendous force, but Scott was not to be caught napping, and he threw clear. It was not long, however, before the home forwards were again in the vicinity of the Everton goal, and Garratty might easily have scored, but in his anxiety he sent the ball high over the bar. At this point the Evertonians re-arranged their front rank, Sharp and Rankin changing places. The alteration promised well, for Sharp was instrumental in running the ball into the home goalmouth. Following upon this the Villa made a desperate onslaught, on the visitors’ goal, and Hampton looked like getting through when he was grassed by Balmer. The Everton back was more strong than polite, and it was some time before the Villa man was able to resume play. The Villa continued to hold a slight advantage over Everton, and after a long spell of attack further success attended their efforts, Garratty heading the ball into the net. Scott just managed to touch the ball, but did not arrest its progress. After this the Evertonians became very demoralised, and as a result of weakness on the part of Crelly, Hampton coolly ran in and scored with a grand shot right out of Scott’s reach. Five minutes from time Hall scored a fourth goal for the Villa. Final result Aston Villa 4 goals Everton nil
Last season the Villa won by 1 goal to nil.
“F.E.H” IN THE DUMPS
Everton have suffered this afternoon the severest defeat they have sustained for many a long day. Aston Villa 5, Liverpool nothing was bad enough but his is worse. Liverpool had some excuse on account of the paucity of their reserve forces. Can this be urged in the case of Everton? I think not. Still, so far as Liverpool football is concerned the result of the two encounters at Aston Park are dismal in the extreme. Nine goals to nothing against Everton and Liverpool is a record which even the Villa may strive for years to equal. The trend of play in the first half was exceptionally fine in character. Narrow as the margin was it might easily have been narrower. Everton’s foot work was exceedingly clever, but there was the old, old complaint of missed opportunities in front of goal. What, I ask, is the use of treating the spectators to smart and attractive footwork if it fails at the critical moment? In football masterly inactivity is simply ruinous, and it is high time the Everton forwards took this truism to heart. At the same time it is only fair to say that the Goodison Park contingent experienced in more than one instance mortifying ill-luck. For instance, one movement of great cleverness and promise ended in Rankin striking the crossbar and the ball rebounding into play. Another inch nearer and a goal must have accrued. Had Everton scored then the subsequent history of the game might have been written differently. There is much virtue in a first goal.
Ill-luck being on the Everton side it was not surprising to find fortune favouring the wearers of the claret and blue. Although enjoying very little more of the game than their opponents the Villa managed to draw first blood after rather less than half an hour’s play, and the irony of it is that Balmer put the ball into the net. In his anxiety to clear his line the Everton back rushed at the ball and glanced it into the net, Scott, whose view was obscured having no chance of coping with it. Before the half-time came Everton tried desperately hard to make amends, but it was not to be, and when the referee called a halt we were one down and forty-five minutes to play.
Of the second half it is painful to write. Whether the first slip had a demoralising effect or not it is not for me to say, but the fact remains that the Villa were all over us. In every department they were infinitely superior. Scott might have saved his goal had he paid more attention to the ball than watching Hampton, but with the two other goals claimed by Hampton and Hall he was powerless. Altogether, it has been a bitter experience for those of us who journeyed to the Midlands.

EVERTON RES v  RIPLEY ATHLETIC
The Liverpool Football Echo-Saturday, September 23, 1905.
Final -Everton Reserve 2 Ripley nil
NOTES ON THE GAME
There was a mere handful of spectators present when proceedings commenced. Collins, late of West Ham, made his debut as Custodian of the Everton team. The opening moves favoured the homesters, but their good work in the open was spoiled by their inability to force home the attack. Play remained tame and uninteresting, and not a sound was heard from the crowd. Earnshaw was penalised, and from the free-kick Rankin drew first blood for the Evertonians. Rankin was responsible for a good acrobatic feat endeavouring to score with an overhead kick while lying prone on the ground. The Ripley halves failed to hold the lively Everton forwards, who literally swarmed around the visiting custodian’s charge, while the backs were kept fully employed. A clever run and centre by McCartney elicited warms applause from the spectators, whose numbers had considerably increased. The Ripley forwards miserably failed to appreciate the situation, and their lukewarmness was remarkable. At the end of the initial forty-five minutes Everton led by 1 goal to nil. They had proved themselves the better side, and deserved their lead. The visitors opened the second half in promising fashion, and Collins cleared after Hannan had miskicked. Everton retaliated and occupied the ground adjacent to Radnell’s charge for some time. Oliver scored a second goal for Everton, and the crowd cheered lustily. Play livened up considerably, and the spectators looked more cheerful than they had done for some time. There was no denying the superiority of the home forwards. The visitors’ centre placed the ball high over the bar from a well-directed corner-kick. Clever run and shot by Birnie was well saved by Radnell.  A long shot which finished yards wide of the post was the best Mee could get. Jenkins made rings round the visiting defence, and finished up with a brilliant effort which went a few inches the wrong side of the post. Everton had the best of the argument to the finish and thoroughly deserved their 2 goals to nil victory.

VIVE LA VILLA!
Sports Argus - Saturday 23 September 1905
“CLARETEERS” MAKE AMENDS FOR COVENTRY-ROAD DISPLAY
BY THRASHING EVERTON IN A HARD, FAST GAME, THOUGH “TOFFEE” DEFENCE GIVES HALF THE GOALS
VILLA V EVERTON
HEAVY DEFEAT ON THE MERSEY MEN
HAMPTON IN FORM
By “Argus Junior”
Aston Villa and Everton are names to conjure with, and the meetings of the pair in League warfare may always be relied upon to produce excellent exhibitions of the great winter pastime. Both have been connected with the tourney since its inception, and the record of each will bear the closest scrutiny. The claret and blues have during their association with the League collected the huge number of 627 points, while Everton have chalked up a total of 588. These figures convey in a nutshell the pre-eminent position each team has held throughout their careers. Last season the Villa won the game at Aston Park by a goal to nil, and they were hopeful of being able to repeat the doze, but it was fully recognised that they were confronted with a formidable task. It was satisfactory to see the home team again at full strength. Pearson having recovered from his injuries, and being included in the eleven. Everton made two changes, Rankin and Black appearing instead of McLoughlin and Abbott. The Scotchman’s form has hitherto disappointed expectation, and apparently Rankin was considered a better man. Abbott’s absence was due to an injury. The Goodison Park contingent are always great favourites in Birmingham, and there was a splendid attendance, 30,000 persons seeing the start. In every corner the crowd looked to be packed solid. The Villa were first to appear and after a little preliminary ball practice the men lined out in the following order;-
Aston Villa.- George; Spencer (captain), Miles; Pearson, Leake, Windmill; Brawn, Garratty, Hampton, Bache, Hall.
Everton.- Scott; W. Balmer, Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), Black; Sharp, Rankin, Young, Settle, Hardman.
Referee; Mr. W. Whittaker, London. Linesmen; Messrs A.G. Neale and A. Shallcross.
Spencer’s luck in the matter of the toss continued, and the Villa played with the breeze from the goal which has the Aston Park trees as a background. Everton opened smartly, Settle immediately becoming prominent, bringing the home captain into play in clearing his lines. Garratty and Brawn circumvented Black, and the opening looked promising until Crelley dashed in and sent up the field. Play was nippy, both sets of forwards being quick on the ball. Everton fed their front men very cleverly, but at length Hall outwitted Makepeace, and racing to the corner flag planked in a fine centre, which Garratty headed into Scott’s arms. Under hot pressure the visiting custodian found some difficulty in throwing the ball out of harm’s way. The Villa were still active round goal, and Bache gave Balmer considerable anxiety. The latter at length placed Young in possession, and a sweeping rush down the field forced Spencer to put back to George for safety. After this play went in Everton’s favour, chiefly owing to some brilliant work by Sharp, who was sprinting in his best form. Young should have scored from one of his centres, but just failed to reach the ball in time. From another, Settle, following up, struck the crossbar. Hampton was finding Taylor a hard nut to crack, and was twice checked in midfield, but Hardman and Young spoilt opportunities by lying offside. At the other end Crelly checked a rush. With the Villa forwards improving somewhat, the attack was persisted in, and Brawn squared from the goal line with all the other forwards well placed. It was Balmer’s tightest corner so far, but he leaped to the ball and cleared with a wonderful overhead half-volley. The Villa were now more aggressive, and only fine work by the opposing halves kept them at bay. The Everton vanguard had become straggling, and Miles had the right wing well in check. Bache dashed through, and the Villa crowded into goal in bustling fashion, with Makepeace in difficulties on the left wing. The half-back extricated himself, but Leake drove hard back at goal. Scott, in flinging out Bache’s shot, stuck Balmer, and the ball rebounded into the net. It was a lucky point, but it counted, and amid a roar the Villa renewed their attacks with redoubled energy. Hampton, however, came to grief in the melee, and the referee stopped the game while he recovered his wind. Everton were evidently well in the hunt, and Young led a spirited onslaught, from which Settle might have equalised had he not attempted to bring the ball over his head. As it was Miles reached the leather before Rankin and placed it out of danger. With Bache going well, the Villa went in and Scott cleared just as Hampton bundled into him. Windmill a minute later tested the opposing goalkeeper with a shot which he grasped just beneath the bar. The Villa made nothing out of a free kick just outside the penalty area, and Everton were on the aggressive when the interval was sounded. It had been a gruelling first half, with very little to choose between the sides. Half-time;- Aston Villa 1 Everton 0
Brawn opened the second half with a rattling run which brought the Villa at once into association with Scott. Bache was within a yard of the goal, and seemed to have it at his mercy as the ball came over from the wing, but he bungled. There was a chorus of chagrin from the folk behind the net. Then it was Everton’s turn, and shaping very prettily in front, they looked all over scorers when Rankin missed at close range by half a dozen yards. Spencer, who had to retire for a few minutes just before the interval, was still far from being himself, and Everton were evidently alive to the source of weakness in the home defence. They had to reckon, however, with some vigorous halves, and with the home lot working together well Balmer had his share of anxious moments. Garratty came very near the mark with one excellent effort, while an instant later Hampton taxed Scott with a fast shot in the far corner. The custodian was cheered for a clever save. With the sun coming out, the visitors had a new factor to contend with, and Scott shaded his eyes as the Villa bore down the field, with Hampton, as usual, in the thick of the fray. Taylor floored the youthful centre in very questionable fashion, and the crowd, under the impression that the Everton man had used his fists, yelled for the offender to be turned off. After a slight delay Hampton resumed, and the Villa went in for another sustained attack. Leake was feeding his forwards with grand judgement, and eventually Garratty found himself in possession, and, levelling the ball straight before him, scored the second goal. Scott handled the shot, but in trying to elude Hampton’s vigorous attentions, allowed the ball to slip into the net. This was when the game was sixty minutes old. Now practically masters of the situation, the Villa were continually in the Everton quarters. Brawn’s sprints were particularly noticeable, and the outside right was even more dangerous than Sharp had been over the same ground in the earlier stages. Crelley intercepted once at a critical moment, but the Villa were irresistible, and Hampton came through and, drawing Scott out, touched the third goal into the net. Though beaten, Everton were not disorganised, and Hardman tried hard to stern the tide by leading a scamper towards George. Spencer ran across and was about to give a corner, when Brawn, in a new role, raced back and kicked into touch. It was only a spasmodic effort, and another rush by the Villa forwards ended with Hampton rolling into the net, but without the ball. Everton were tryers, but their shooting was sadly at fault. Taylor, with a clear opening, sent yards behind, and then another chance was spolit by Settle getting offside. The visitors were incapable of testing George. Once again Hampton was in the wars, as the Villa streamed in Scott’s direction, Crelley this time being his antagonist. The latter’s head came in contact with the impulsive Villa man’s nose. Resuming, Hall ran round Makepeace, and hit the near upright with a terrific left footer. Given another opening the same player threaded his way through and scored the Villa’s fourth goal. Everton’s half backs seemed to have crumpled up, and it was a case of the home forwards versus Scott, Crelley, and Balmer. Fouls were rather frequent, Taylor being the prime offender, and the number of interruptions marred the closing stages. The Villa pressed till the end, but failed to odd to their score. Taylor was hooted by a section of the crowd, as the players left the field. The Villa earned their victory by dashing forward work in the second half, and to have registered 9 goals against two Liverpool clubs is a performance which few teams are likely to surpass this season.
Result- Aston Villa 4 Everton 0
THE GAME AT A GLANCE
After 29 minutes’ play;- Villa 1 Everton 0
(Bache shot, the ball going through off Balmer)
After 67 minutes;- Villa 3 Everton 0
(Hampton scored)
After eight-five minutes;- Villa 4 Everton 0
(Hall scored)

GOSSIP ON THE GAME
Villa’s discomfiture at Coventry-road last week had not dampened the patriotism of the faithful. At least, there was no perceptible falling-off in the usual Villa attendance, and fully half an hour before the band tucked up its music and made room for the players 20,000 would not be an exaggerated estimate of “those present.”
The Everton directors must have been greatly exercised during the week in the selection of to-day’s cast. Persevering Pressmen as late as yesterday were sent away by Secretary Cuff with the intimation that the team had not been chosen. The selection was left as late as possible, and the result showed the Everton side to bear a very different complexions to that which fought with Villa so tenaciously on two occasions last season for the Crystal Palace honours.
In goal, Scott, the Irish international, faced the Villa forwards in place of Kitchen. Balmer and Crelly were the unchanged pair of backs, but in the midway line a recruit named Black did duty for that good old war-horse Abbott. Four of the forwards who gave George such a gruelling half hour in that memorable replayed semi-final at Nottingham were ready for duty again to-day. McDermott, who was superseded by Rankin, is an International player-too often relegated to the reserves -being the only absentee from the doughty line of Nottingham fame.
What has Hampton been doing to his once luxuriant tremors? To-day his scalp showed almost through its thin thatch, and made one wonder if he had visited the barber’s with a fell purpose to prevent the goalkeeper having something to clutch when the Villa centre goes a-not-hunting.
The Villa started bravely, and the game was not many minutes old before the slim, sinewy Scott was tested. Hall flung the ball across to Garratty who headed into the Irishman’s hands. Then Hampton just failed to turn a beautiful centre by Brawn -and the lengthy one can centre when he career to-between the posts. The Leake tried a long-range effort, which cleared through the air only a foot or two above the cross-plane.
Last it be though from this comments that Everton had been acting the part of passive resistance, it may be said that the Villa following had already enjoyed two or three shoots. One came when Spencer put back dangerously near to George, but the Old Reliable was at his post.
Of the forwards in blue the outside wing men were the most aggressive. Jack Sharp has last none of the nippiness and dash that characterised him in his Villa days, and young Harold Hardman-a future K.C if he can choose between the rival masters of football and the law- was always posturing Pearson, but the latter merely lessened the collar of his jersey and did his best to circumvent the enemy.
Hereabout there came a succession of mis-kick. Leake sent the ball unerringly to the feet of Balmer with a long punt, and we all smiled. But the Everton captain did infinitely worse for he kicked towards his own goal, and Hampton was upon the ball while one could say “knife.” But in turn he miskicked, so it was proved that even star players can err. We had to applaud an excellent shot from Settle, which made the cross-bar rattle again, but, generally speaking, the shooting of both sides was not of a kind calculated to give the goalkeepers many apprehensive moments. The backs and half-backs of either side were too good for the forwards and the result, though perhaps gratifying to the cold-blooded student of football, detracted from the spectatorial element.
One was just going to write the phrase, “Half an hour had passed, and there had been no scoring,” when we were provided with a little sensation. There was a hurly-bury round the Everton goal, following on a useful punt from Alex Leake. Bache filliped the ball into the goal mouth, and Scott in clearing knocked the ball against Balmer, from whom it rebounded into the net. The Everton back was over unlucky in this respect, and almost every season figures among the list of goal scorers-of other clubs. But when we had recovered from the surprise, how we cheered! 
Only two corners had been given up to date, a fact which speaks eloquently of the nature of the game. It seemed as if Hampton had been badly hurt when he fell prone, and a crowd of solicitous players gathered round. Three minutes later he was wriggling among the meshes of the net, in the true Hamptonian style! The Villa centre has a feline plurality of lives.
In taking of a free kick, Leake exhibited a characteristic piece of humour. He sprang at the ball as if to kick it, but jumped over it, and allowed Miles to propel the shot. The Little plot failed, for the referee had to order the kick to be retaken. 
The record of further events on this side of the interval is scarcely worth the telling.
The sun shone brilliantly in the second half. County cricket matches have been played in less congenial weather-just a few!
The Villa ought really to have scored from that centre of Brawn’s, but all the other forwards looked on. A little later Garratty put in a good one, which deserved better luck than it received. A discreditable piece of business was seen on the part of the Everton centre-half, and for once the crowd were justified in expressing their disapproval of happenings on the field. Hampton was making a bee-line for goal, and had beaten Taylor, when the latter fisted the Villa centre in the ribs. He fell like a log, and it was at least two minutes before the game could be resumed. Referee Whittaker doubtless knows his business but a free kick was by no means adequate punishment for the offence. But Hampton had a prime revenge soon after. He bundled the ball across to Garratty, who shot. Scott ought easily to have saved, but probably because Hampton was bearing down upon him like a torpedo- he finished his career in the net, of course-he got flustered, and put the ball through his own goal.
What the Everton supporters thought at this second costly blunder we cannot say, but here ignorance is bliss, for it would be unprintable.
But there was yet worse to come-from the Everton point of view. Six minutes after Hampton crashed in a shot which had Scott beaten all the way. There wasn’t even the suspicion of luck about this point, whatever may be said about the others.
Everton were now fighting a forlorn hope, and when Hall, all on his own, beat Scott a fourth time it was all over but the shouting. Villa started scrappily, but when they got a two goals’ lead they were irresistible.
Some of the Everton players tried tactics of a most reprehensible character, and Mr. Whittaker ought to have made a glaring example to the football world of at least one of the visitors. It was an off-day for Spencer, who did not seem at all fit, for once he left the field. But most of the Villa players shone-Miles, Leake, Hampton, and Hall particularly so. We take the Vlla back to our honours. A side that can beat the two Mersey teams by nine goals to none is going to push something over this season.

ASTON VILLA ROUT EVERTON.
London Daily News - Monday 25 September 1905
A Lucky Goal, and What Followed.
It would be difficult to recall series of games between two great clubs which have the aggregate produced finer football than the League matches between Aston Villa and Everton. With few exceptions, those games have been free from anything savouring of roughness ; in fact, the Birmingham crowd have come to look upon the meeting Aston Villa and Everton the match of the year, because experience has taught them that in that engagement they were likely to witness football of an exhilarating and yet delightful character. unfortunately, Saturday’s game Aston did not maintain the high traditions of which we have 'spoken. For the first forty-five minutes the play was of the best type. It was keen and well fought, and Aston Villa had great stroke of luck when a shot from the foot of Bache struck Balmer, who was trying to cover the goalkeeper, Scott, and the ball deflected off the Everton full back into his own not. The Villa had put on plenty of pressure prior this, and deserved to score, but not in the manner in which the goal came. However, such things happen in football, and Aston Villa do not often score more goals than they deserve. When the teams crossed over there was everything to suggest a close finish, and nothing to hint that Aston Villa were destined to have runaway victory. But the unexpected happened. From this point to the finish of the game the Villa practically swamped the Everton defence—and it was a good defence, too. At any rate, the halves did sound work, and the backs acquitted themselves manfully. But Garratty put on a second goal; then Hampton ran up, and, tempting Scott out, scored with the greatest ease; while before the finish Hall obtained fourth, and the Villa won four goals to nil. Everton deserve to have a vote of condolence passed with them in the loss of Roose, for assuredly Scott is not in the same class as the Welshman. Indeed, it is doubtful if there is a finer goalkeeper in the world than Roose. Scott is not convincing; for instance, he gave a free kick, not on the goal line, but on the touch line, which suggests that is of errant disposition. Balmer played well, more especially in the first half. He is very fine back indeed. Makepeace was clever at half, but Abbott was missed in that line. The forwards were moderate. Sharp and Hardman lacked opportunities, Young clinging to the ball too much. For the Villa Spencer, although injured, was always safe, the throe halves were untiring, and skilful withal. Brawn was better than Hall, but the three inside men were exceptionally clever. Garratty is a consistent performer for Aston Villa this season.

ASTON VILLA 4 EVERTON 0
September 25, 1905. The Liverpool Courier
EVERTON'S DECISIVE DEFEAT
BITTER EXPERIENCE AT BIRMINGHAM
The outcome of Everton's visit to Aston Villa was a great shock to the club's vast army of supporters. There is never any disgrace in being beaten on the Villa's ground, but invariably the struggle between the two clubs have been exceedingly close. A thrashing by four clear goals is an indignity which, the Evertonians will not forget for some time to come. Moreover, it came almost on top of an even more decisive defeat (5-0), which the Villa inflicted upon Liverpool. Thus early in the season the cupholders have taken four points out of out two clubs by the very substantial margin of nine goals to nothing. There ought to be reckoning when the return visits are paid to this city. If memory services in the long series of League encounters between Everton and the Villa, this four goals to nil is about the most pronounced which has been recorded. And the worst of it is, there was noting like such a disparity between the teams. The Villa's first and second goals had more than an element of luck about them, but the other two were all right and let it be at once be admitted, the Villa fully earned their couple of points.
EVEN FIRST HALF.
It was a very enjoyable opening half from the point of view of the spectators. The great rivals gave of their best, and with the grand in excellent conditions the pace was terrific while the rapid changes in the fortunes of the side made the game intensely interesting. Everton if anything played rather more attractive football than the Cup holders, but the determination of the home team was always threatening danger. Quite early on Everton experienced a stroke of rank bad luck. Sharp's pace enabled him to outwit both Windmill and Miles, and from his centre, Rankin banged in a dazzlingly shot, which had George beaten all the way. Unfortunately for Everton the Ball rebound from underpart of the crossbar andHoward Spencer in a twinkling had it cleared. The half-way line, who knows what would have happened if only that ball had bounded the way into the net. Still it all in the game, and it was Aston Villa who got the first point, when scoring from a rebound off Balmer, with Scott in a helpless position, was distinctly as lucky as Rankin's effort had been otherwise. Up to the interval Everton fought hard to obtain an equaliser, but, though Spencer hurt his knee and had to retire, they could make no impression on the home defence.
EVERTON'S DISCOMFITURE.
The second half was in striking contrast to the earlier position of the proceedings. The Villa started off with exhilarating dash, and in the very first minute both Bache and Hall missed an open goal. Still only a few minutes claused and the home team were two goals up. This time Scott was evidently caught napping by Hampton; as a matter of fact, if he had paid more attentions Garratty's shot and less to the centre forward the goal might have been saved. With fortune on their side the Villa after this were irresistible, while the effects of their opponents were singularly disjointed. Even when Sharp and Rankin changed places, there was little improvement and when Hampton with a brilliant effort put on a third goal, Everton's doom was sealed. They gave occasional glimpse of their old form, but they were merely flashes in the pan. One hoped that they might reproduce a little of the magnificent display in the closing stages of the memorable semi-final replay at Nottingham, instead of which, as the saying goes, they could not raise a gallop, and their discomfiture was complete when Hall registered the fourth goal. THE PLAYERS.
With only three points out of four games, the Everton representatives will have to look to their laurels. So far they have failed to attain their standard of last season. This will not do if the club are to maintain the position they have so long held. Although Booth is perforce standing down, the class of players at command surely ought to practice better results. Granting the ill-luck which was their portion against the Villa, the falling away in the second half was not at all pleasant for the may supporters who travlled to Birmingham to witness the game. Scott was not so successful as in previous games this season, but beyond his lack of judgement in dealing with the shot which led in the second gaol, he was not to blame for the defeat. The backs were far from safe when subjected to severe pressure, and Balmer, as also Taylor seemed to lose his temper somewhat unnecessarily, with the result that the comments of the crowd were very outspoken. The halves were singularily uneven. At times their work was excellent, but in the later stages they were unable to cope with the brilliant combination of the Villa attacking forces. The forwards were good and bad by turns. Sharp and Hardman got in some capital centres, and Settle at times was as clever as ever. Young was responsible for some smart bits of work, but Rankin is obviously unfitted for an inside position. Apart from that one shot, which certainly deserved to score, his display presented little merit. At the same time it must be remembered that he has few opportunities of gaining experience in first-class company. As for the Villa, when once their position was safe they played their typical cup tie game. The forwards have a happy knack of going for goal for all they are worth. They have two fine outside men, in Brawn and Hall, and in Hampton a centre forward who is as daring as he is resourceful. Windmill was the pick of the halves, while in view of Spencer's injured knee, Miles was the shining light at full back. It is to be hoped that when Abbott and McLoughlin are again available, Everton will come back to their old form. Teams: - Aston Villa: - George, goal, Spencer, and Miles, backs Pearson Leake, and Windmill half-backs, Brown, Garratty, Hampton Bache and Hall, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs, Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Black half-backs, Sharp, Rankin Young, Settle, and Hardman forwards. Referee Mr. Whittaker.

EVERTON ENERVATED
Athletic News - Monday 25 September 1905
By Junius
Both our League elevens have experienced a rough time in Birmingham at the hands of the Villa this season.  Liverpool’s defeat by five clear goals was astounding, but the reverse sustained by Everton was nearly as bad.  The “Blues” had a weakened team, for Abbott was hurt at St. Helens on the previous Thursday in the Lancashire Cup-tie, and McDermott was omitted.  They could well have done with Booth, who has yet another week to remain in idleness, for Everton are now beginning to feel the pinch.  The decision to leave McDermott in idleness has been one of the sensations of the week, but modern football demands all the energy and concentration of every player.  The idea of playing Rankin inside-right to Sharp has been often mooted and the experiment is certainly worth repeating.  But the team as a whole is not settling down to that effective football they exhibited last year.  The forwards are uneven, and the defence is inclined to be erratic.  These defects have an effort will be necessary to bring about a change of fortune.  There has been a marked difference in the feelings of the respective supporters of Everton and Liverpool during the past fortnight. 

EVERTON’S EXTRAORDINARY COLLAPSE
Athletic News - Monday 25 September 1905
By Brum
Meetings between Aston Villa and Everton have long been invested not only with special interest, but even with a special charm.  I have ever watched has been afforded by league games between these historic clubs.  What wonderful left wing play we used to get when Edgar Chadwick and Milward were in the Liverpool side and Dennis Hodgetts and Allen or Steve Smith formed the Villa wing.  One exhibition which Chadwick and Milward gave at the old Perry Barr ground was a revelation eve to those who had seen all the best wings since football became the game of the masses.  Then who does not recall the most brilliant of all cup finals, that of 1897, then the Villa, then at their best, were practically no better than Everton.  Looking backwards one has to revert to the very early days of the League to recall the time when Hodgetts and a gentleman named Dick got at loggerheads, with an unfortunate result (officially), for one of the fairest men that ever wore the Aston jersey.  I do not recall any rough game between Aston Villa and Everton since that time until Saturday.  Now I am not given to making a fuss over rough play, because fair shoulder to shoulder charging is an integral portion of Association football.  Saturday’s game, indeed, was beyond reproach until after the interval.  No one need wish to see better football than the teams played in the first forty-five minutes.  Then there was a disposition on the part of the Everton backs to go for Hampton and he was laid out four of five times.  Of course, we know that Hampton courts these sort of things.  He is daring to the verge of recklessness (even if he does not get over the line), but I am bound to declare that he was not fairly treated in Saturday’s match. Possibly a few of the Everton men were a trifle sore over the ridiculously lucky goal which Balmer unintentionally gave to the home side. Mind, I am not condemning the Everton team, because practically the undue vigour shown was exhibited by two men only, Taylor and Balmer. Relatively it was not a rough game, by any means, but one is constrained to point out defects in a Villa- Everton match because, as I hinted before, the standard of play has invariably been so high. Please do not run away with the impression that it was a bashing match; it was nothing of the kind. It was a very fine match, indeed, although towards the end the Villa took a pronounced lead and finally won with far greater ease than anyone ventured to think possible at the end of the first half. Their win, in fact, was not quite so easy as the scores would indicate. There was not much between the sides; a little luck would have given Everton a couple of goals. Still the Villa thoroughly deserved their win; there was more method about their forward work. Rankin, who took the place of the injured McLaughlin, who in turn displaced the unsuccessful McDermott, was a source of weakness to the Everton attack. He missed two or three simple chances, but he was not the only sinner. I did not like Young’s work; in fact, speaking of my own personal tastes  I thought Young played into the hands of the Villa in those two Cup-ties we saw between the sides last season.  He keeps the ball far too close for my liking, and is the very Antithesis of Hampton, who delights in flinging the ball out to the wing as widely as possible. I know which is the better game, but Young is a clever player, and perhaps he will think this suggestion over. Everton also missed Abbott at left half. Not only is Abbott a skilful tackier but he is a deadly shot goal, as he was indeed when he was so distinguished an ornament of the Small Heath forward line. Black, late of the Celtic, was not quite so efficient as the old Coventry-road man would have been. The first half was well advanced when a shot from Bache troubled the Everton defenders. The ball hovered about a little, then struck Balmer, and finally found its way into the net. Lucky Villa! Said most of us, but there was no luck about the work of the home team in the second portion. They obtained three goals, and they gained them by sheer merit, or rather, by dash and merit combined, but then the first quality is as meritorious as anything in football.  Garratty obtained a second, Hampton a third, Scott coming out in a vain effort to save, and Hall brought the total up to four goals to none. There was a sharp contrast between the two styles of forward play. With the Villa the game was always open and the ball was constantly on the move. The three Everton inside men played a cramped game. Young was the chief sinner, but Settle was not altogether guiltless, although, he put in many clever touches, but the net result of the style adopted was that the clever wing men, John Sharp and Hardman, had comparatively little to do. What Sharp had do he did fairly well, although Windmill showed more judgment than I had ever seen him manifest. He constantly intercepted the ball as it came from Rankin, Taylor, or Makepeace to Sharp. The Everton half back play was good, and the backs were sound until the Villa’s “dash” upset their equanimity. Scott is not a Roose on Saturday’s showing. For the Villa, Spencer (although injured early on) played a masterly game. Miles was full of pluck, and the half-back trio did admirable work. Pearson and Windmill are coming on apace. Hall was not quite at his best, but Brawn worked harder than usual, though the forwards par excellence in the game were Garratty, Hampton, and Bache, and none did better than that splendid veteran, William Garratty. There was a crowd of thirty thousand, and they witnessed some good sport. It was a heavy defeat, but Everton should remember that the Villa, at their best, are unbeatable. How different the show the Villa men gave compared with the sorry figure they cut at Coventry-road, only a short week ago. Aston Villa:—George: Spencer, Miles; Pearson,  Leake, Windmill: Brawn, Garratly, Hampton, Bache, and Hall.  Everton:—Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Makepeace,  Taylor, Black; Sharp,  Rankin, Young, Settle, and Hardman. Referee: N. Whittaker,  London.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 RIPLEY ATHLETIC 0
September 25 1905. The Liverpool Football Echo.
There was a mere handful of spectators present when proceedings commenced. Collins Late of West Ham made his debut as custodian of the Everton team. The opening moves favoured the homesters, but their good work in the open was spoiled by their inability to force home the attack. Play remained tame and uninteresting and not a sound was heard from the crowd. Earnshaw was penalised, and from the free kick Rankin drew first blood for the Evertonians. Rankin was responsible for a good acrobatic feat endeavoring to score with an overhead kick while lying prone on the ground. The Ripley halves failed to hold the lively Everton forwards, who literally swarmed around the visiting custodian's charge, while the backs were kept fully, employed. A clever run and centre by Mccartney elected warm applause from the spectators, whose number had considerably increased. The Ripley forwards miserably failed to appreciate the situation and their luckwarnances was remarkable. At the end of the initial forty-five minutes Everton led by 1 goal to nil. They had proved themselves the better side and deserved their lead. The visitors opened the second half in promising fashion, and Collins cleared after Hannan had miskick. Everton retaliated and occupied the ground adjacent to Radnell's charge for some time. Oliver scored a second goal for Everton, and the crowd cheered lustily. Play livened up considerably and the spectators looked more cheerful that they had done for some time. There was no denying the superiority of the home forwards. The visitors centre placed the ball high over the bar from a well-directed corner kick. clever run and shot by Birnie was well saved by Radnell. A long shot which finished yards wide of the post was the best their could get. Jenkins made rings round the visiting defence and finished up with a brilliant effort, which went a few inches, the wrong side of the post. Everton had the best of the argument to the finish and thoroughly deserved their 2 goals to nil victory. Everton: - Collins, goal, Hill, and Hannan, backs, Ritchie, Dodd and Donaldson, half-backs, Hamer, Rankin, Oliver, Jenkins and A.N.Other, forwards.

ALAS! POOR EVERTON
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Monday 25 September 1905
The Everton team would seem to have struck a bad patch, and their overwhelming defeat at the hands-or rather feet-of Aston Villa was distinctly disappointing. It speaks volumes for the popularity of the Goodison Park organisation that several thousand people travelled to Birmingham to see the game. Their feelings when the whistle finally sounded may be better imagined than described. For, looking the game fair and square in the face, so to speak, the margin of excellence between the contestants was not so great as the result would appear to indicate. In the first half the Evertonians were quite as good as their opponents. The forwards were fast, clever, and persistent, which the defence was thoroughly sound and reliable. Dame Fortune, however, was in sullen mood, so far as the visitors were concerned, and, after experiencing a rebuff in the first portion of the game, the Evertonians metaphorically fell all to pieces in the second half. The rebuff alluded to was, no doubt, the turning point of the whole match. From a throw-in close to the corner flag, Bache lobbed the ball into the goal-mouth, and Balmer, in trying to intercept it, put it into the net. This slice of good luck seemed to act as a tonic to the Villa team, and, having thus gained a lead, they proceeded to give the spectators a taste of their true quality. In ratio to their improvement Everton deteriorated, and the last stages of a fast and exciting march were altogether in favour of the wearers of the claret and the blue jerseys. There can, of course be little excuse for this falling from grace on the part of the Blues, for in the first half-hour’s play they had emphatically demonstrated their ability in all departments. Their weakness lay in hesitancy in front of goal. We are told that the man who hesitates is lost, and the same dictum evidently applies to football forwards.
It is estimated that 30,000 people witnessed the encounter, and they were certainly rewarded by a really scientific display of the Association code. Both Everton and Aston Villa are noted exponents of the most accomplished form of football. speaking generally, they invariably adopt the same methods, and the consequence is that when they meet the game is almost always an ideal one. Saturday’s meeting for the first forty-five minutes was no exception to the rule, but, as already indicated the closing stages were decidedly monopolised by the Villa. The primary reason for this was that they did not dally with the ball when within shooting range. Whenever there was an opportunity to shoot the opportunity was taken advantage of, and though many attempts failed, four at least found the net. Had the Evertonians shown anything like the same keenness and determination when they were swarming round George we might have had a different tale to tell. Without pursuing an apologetic attitude, it is only fair to point out that Everton was handicapped by an unusual right wing and by the absence of Abbott. Sharp and Rankin worked together with willing eagerness, but the latter is obviously not an inside man, and this was shown when in the course of the second half Sharp took the inside berth. It was then, however too late to pull up the leeway. Young, for the most part, was very disappointing in the centre position, and the left wing pair by no means played up to their best form. Hardman it is true, made several capital sprints along the wing, but they invariably ended in an easy clearance by one or other of the backs. The half back line was also scarcely up to the average. Black proved himself a ready and versatile player, and Makepeace was neat and nimble; but there were many occasions on which the Villa forwards quite outstripped them. Balmer was the best of the backs, but there were times when he was caught napping, while his unfortunate mistake had a direct bearing on the ultimate issue of the game. Scott once more showed that he is a custodian of first class ability, and he can scarcely be blamed for the shots which told against him. Of Aston Villa it is only necessary to say that they won by reason of superior dash. The eleven just now-in spite of its previous reverse- is going great guns. The forward line is one of the most powerful and dangerous in the League, and Garratty, Bache, and Hampton have rarely been seen to better advantage. The half back line was infinitely better than that of Everton, Pearson being particularly prominent. The backs both did their duty with celerity and despatch, and George coped with the few really dangerous shots he had to deal with in his best manner.

DEFENCE THAT FAILED
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 25 September 1905
Villa forwards demoralise the enemy
By “Astonian.”
If Saturday’s match proved anything at all, beyond the fact that their weak-kneed exhibition of the previous week was not symptomatic of the Villa’s true form, it was this- that it is just as possible for a “rot” to seize the defence of a football team as the rear end of a first-class county cricket eleven. Up to the moment, soon after the interval, when Scott gave away a second goal for Everton-Balmer had similarly distinguished himself in the first half-it cannot be said that the Villa had given more than a brief promise of eventual superiority; but once the visitors found themselves two goals in arrears, there was only one team in it. And that team was not Everton. Probably the Goodison executive now more than ever deplore the secession of Roose. One cannot imagine the amateur goalkeeper, now doing such brilliant service for his old love in the Potteries, letting his side down so easily. And yet Scott is an Irish international, and came to Everton with the most flattering credentials.
OPPORTUNIST HAMPTON
All this does not detract one whit from the merit of the Villa performance. Led by Hampton, who is an opportunist of the very front rank, they threw scarce a chance away. One may quote only that incident in which Scott, with any amount of “fairway,” as the sailors call it, picked up the ball and prepared leisurely to punt it down the field. Like a harlequin through a start trap shot up Hampton, and so flustered was Scott that he nearly dropped the ball like a hot potato. It is that alertness to seize the most spectral of chances that makes Hampton so dangerous when it does not happen, as at Coventry-road, that the opposing half-backs tread on his heels and toes at every turn.
Mr. McGregor deals with the varying phases of the game, and it remains only for me to review it as a whole. Whether the complexion of the match would have been materially altered had the Everton defence not been guilty of two most costly blunders is neither here nor there. The defence is part of the team, and if it crumble so badly as to permit such happenings, so must the virtue of the whole side be affected.
SPENCER A PASSENGER
In the first half-hour there was no marked discrepancy between the skill of either side. In the period of time mentioned there were only two corners, and it seemed as if we were to be treated to a game in which the defence (including the half-backs) of either side was to smother and render futile the opposing attack. Scrimmages in the goal-mouth were painfully rare, and this the efforts of the rival sharpshooters were confined mainly to blind, long-range shooting. Villa, too, were labouring under a distinct disadvantage through the excusable ineptitude of Spencer, usually one of the most aggressive figures of the side. His leg was so “groggy” that he dare hardly trust it, and time after time Miles had to cover his partner, a help that he rendered most nobly. The towering supremacy of the home side in the last half-hour, under the circumstances, was all the more remarkable, having regard to the reputation of their rivals, and the gruelling game the latter gave the Villa in their last meeting-that historical replayed semi-final at Nottingham. Everton were not only outstripped, but outclassed, and the Villa were in such irresistible mood in the dying moments of the game that they could have gone on piling up goals in sensational fashion but for the arbitrary limitation of time.
Hampton was a very different figure on Saturday to the Hampton of the previous week. While he actually scored only one goal, it is impossible to over-estimate the value of his dashing work in upsetting the morale of the visiting defence. It is regrettable to have to say that the tactics of one or two of the Everton players in trying to rid themselves of his attentions were extremely discreditable, and a firmer referee than Mr. Whittaker would have meted out sterner punishment to the offenders than the granting of a free kick. It was a great day for all the Villa front five, while the halves, with Leake and Windmill especially prominent, and Miles and George very safe behind shared in the general triumph. The Liverpool clubs have reason to remember Villa Park, for in the first month of the season they have there lost nine goals, or nearly half their total adverse record; but with a continuance of such form as that of the Villa on Saturday, other clubs will have reason to look upon the Witton-road enclosure as a cemetery of their hopes.

EVERTON DECISIVELY DEFEATED
Birmingham Daily Post - Monday 25 September 1905
The visit of Everton to Aston usually furnishes one of the finest and most skilful expositions of the game seen on the ground throughout the season. Local enthusiasts regard it as one of the tit-bits of the tournament. Both teams are scientific, and contests between them are generally fought out in a capital spirit, with more of skill and less of force than is noticeable in some contests. The fixture has consequently secured a high place in the affections of the football public, and it was not surprising to see about 35,000 spectators present at Aston on Saturday. It may be stated at once, however, that much better games have been witnessed between the teams, games in which the play has reached a higher standard of excellence, and in which the struggle for supremacy has been more prolonged. When little more than an hour had passed on Saturday the contest was all over bar the shouting, as the saying goes, and in the end the Villa were left victorious by four goals to nil, the most decisive victory of the afternoon- that is, of course, so far as the first division tournament is concerned. Then there were one or two incidents which could well have been dispensed with. Hampton was brought down unfairly, as it appeared, on several occasions, and was shaken up rather badly, although he pluckily stuck to his guns and played on to the finish. Still, taken throughout it was not at all a rough game, and at times some excellent football was witnessed though the quality of excellence was not as sustained as one expected. During the first half hour there was little to choose between the teams. Some capital attacks were witnessed on the part of both sets of forwards whose play, however, in front of goal lacked something in finish. Of course, both attacking lines were opposed to resolute defenders, but there was scarcely that satisfactory finish about the attacks that one could have wished for. “The side that scores first will win” said one enthusiasts, and the remark came true, for the Villa obtained the first goal, and ultimately won by four goals to nothing. Everton were distinctly unfortunate that they were a goal to the bad at the end of half-an-hour’s play. In the first place, Settle had experienced hard lines with a shot which struck the underside of the crossbar, in the second it was Balmer who obtained the goal for the home team. He tried to clear away a long shot, but only succeeded in diverting the ball out of the Everton goalkeeper’s reach. But for Balmer’s action Scott might have saved the shot. Just prior to the interval Spencer had left the field suffering from a strained muscle in one of his legs, but he took up his position at right back after the adjournment, and though he could not run fast rendered useful service to his side, who were the better players in the last forty-five minutes. A quarter of an hour after resuming Garratty headed a goal from a centre from the left wing, Scott catching the ball and then dropping it, whilst a few minutes later Hampton finished up a characteristic run with a well-placed shot and credited himself with the best goal of the afternoon, though the one that Hall subsequently obtained was the result of a beautiful bit of work. The Villa, as stated, deserved their victory. Their defence was sound, Miles being very prominent at back, whilst their half-backs performed more satisfactorily than they have done in any previous match this season, though they are not yet revealing that admirable form which was such an important factor in the club’s success at Crystal Palace. Windmill is to be praised for the excellent manner in which he looked after Sharp, though it must be confessed that the latter’s partner scarcely rendered him that assistance necessary to enable him to shine. At the interval Sharp went into the inside position, but he was no more successful than before- indeed, as indicated, Everton were generally outplayed in the second half, when the Villa forwards performed in a manner reminiscent of the back end of last season. There was more method and precision about their work than there had been previously. We have seen Brawn play better than he did on Saturday, but Garratty and Hampton were both hard and successful workers, whilst Bache and Hall were a clever left wing. Settle and Hardman were the most prominent forwards on the visiting side, and Taylor did some excellent work at centre half, though in one or two instances his tactics were not above suspicion. Both Balmer and Crelly played well at back, whilst Scott kept goal satisfactorily, save in the one instance when he allowed the ball to fall out of his hands and cross the goal line. The Villa, it should be added, were fully represented whereas Everton were without McLaughlin and Abbott, and the absence of the latter undoubtedly affected the strength of the visiting half-back line.

MORE TURN-UPS IN THE LEAGUE TOURNAMENT
Liverpool Echo - Monday 25 September 1905
Bee
It is but Monday morn, yet a reader has been so impressed by Everton’s failure that he has written me under the shadow of “True Blue” suggesting the following team as the most likely to beat Liverpool next Saturday;-
Scott; R. Balmer and Crelly; Makepeace, Black, and Abbott, Sharp, Young, Taylor, Settle, and Hardman. 
He commends this selection to the consideration of the Everton executive. Good, “True Blue” -and now let us turn to criticism of the match, which can best be described as “Vive la Villa,” and leave the selection of the eleven to the directors. It is agreed by all at the match that the margin gained by those Villans does not accurately tell those people not present the merits of the Blues. Everton were beaten deservedly and decisively, yet no one could suggest that 4 goals to nil was a merited margin for the home lot. Settle had experienced hard lines with a shot that struck the underside of the crossbar, and Balmer obtained the first goal for the home team. He tried to clear away a long shot, but only succeeded in diverting the ball out of Scott’s reach. Garratty headed a goal from a centre from the left wing, Scott catching the ball and then dropping it, whilst a few minutes later Hampton finished up a characteristic run with a well-placed shot and credited himself with the best goal of the afternoon, although the one that Hall subsequently obtained was the result of a beautiful bit of work. That the right wing was throwing the line out of gear was very apparent. Rankin was disappointing at inside right, failing to render Sharp that assistance necessary to enable him to shine. At the interval Sharp went into the inside position, but he was no more successful than before-indeed, Everton were generally outplayed in the second half, when the Villa forwards performed in a manner reminiscent of the back-end of last season. Settle and Hardman were the most prominent forwards on the visiting side, and Taylor did some excellent work at centre-half. Both Balmer and Crelly played well at back, whilst Scott kept goal satisfactorily save in the one instance.- a qualification applying to Balmer also. Black did creditably under the circumstances. The front line needs brushing up, and I can see no means of this being accomplished unless it be by the aid of Jock Taylor, who betwixt Young and Sharp would add a spirit of dash that is very necessary.  Liverpool will give them a game of a fierce description next week unless the forwards attack with more persistency and by so doing rest the defenders. One thing is certain; Everton are short of two class forwards. Till they get them they will lose more points than they obtain. Did you hear that McDermott was on the transfer list? It is so. No need for enlarging on the statement.

FOOTBALL FRAGMENTS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 26 September 1905
Bee
Neither of the Liverpool clubs has gone into special training in view of the great event of Saturday next at Goodison. Home-work, as usual, is the order, and among supporters speculation is very rife. Spectators will be wise if they take note of the declaration from the secretary; Admission to the reserved and shareholders stand is by ticket only, to be had, prices 4s and 2s 6d, from Sugg’s Lord-street; Sharp’s Whitechapel; and the office, Goodison-road. Season ticket holders are requested to be in their seats not later than 3.15. Soon after one o’clock the checkers and turnstile operators will be in their places to deal with the long stream of spectators, and there will be a merry clicking of the thirty-five turn-stiles, let it hail or rain, for the lowly position of the Blues and the return to form of the Reds has made the issue extremely open.
The arguments regarding the merits of Scott and Roose continues. One can get no further with the matter, and the subject-correspondents please note! -is now passed over.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 27 September 1905
There will be many in Liverpool who will say that the announcement that Mr. Arthur Kingscott is retiring is not at all a bad thing for Everton, who somehow or other were incapable of winning matches in which he officiated. Mr. Kingscott, who has twenty-six years’ record, has been promoted by the Midland Railway Company, and his business is of more importance to him than referee’s fees. He has been abused left and right, and has a book full of audacious and sarcastic Press cuttings that he taken up to read when he is out of sorts and wants to be put into a good humour. He holds the record of having officiated before the biggest crowd that ever watched a football match- the Tottenham-United final of 1901 at the Crystal Palace.

MR. ARTHUR KINGSCOTT
September 28, 1905. The Liverpool Daily Post
There will be many in Liverpool who will say that the announcement that Mr. Arthur Kingscott is retiring is not at all a bad thing for Everton, who somehow or other were incapable of winning matches in which he officiated. Mr. Kingscott, who has twenty six years record, has been promoted by the Midland Railway Company, and his business is of more importance to him than referee's fees. He holds the record of having officiated before the biggest crowd that ever watched a football match –the Tottenham-Sheffield United final of 1901 at Crystal Palace.

EVERTON GOALKEEPER CLEARS THIS MATRIMONLAL FENCE
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 28 September 1905
McDERMOTT’S POSITION
Bee
Things in the Liverpool football area are very brisk now. All the fuss is about the match on Saturday. Everton have not had any out of the ordinary practice, the well-tried course of training being adopted. All the men are well, and, after last week’s defeat and the previous blurred play, something sensational in the matter of choice of players may be recorded. Certain players have not given satisfaction; that is common property, and I question if it will not be policy to make a change in the defence and attack. Young Robert Balmer may oust his brother, and in the half back line Abbott, of course would have preference over Black, while in the forwards McDermott is ready for service again.
About this player there is this to be said (unless I am inaccurately informed by a usually worthy source); McDermott has completed a term of enforced idleness extending over a fortnight, and the club are prepared to part with him or keep him as they think fit. McLoughlin is well again, and may be chosen when the selectors meet on Friday evening.
The Everton “boys” have been anxiously asking when Scott, their goalkeeper, intended to join the Benedicts.  They have known the event was imminent and good-humouredly teased Scott about it, but not an inkling would he give them of the time and place. Several of them had vowed determination to witness the ceremony and accord the “leather-handler” a right royal greeting. Well, it will be news to them to learn that Scott was quietly married to Miss Carlisle, of Everton, yesterday at St. Anne’s Church, Aigburth road, in the presence of just a very few friends.
Not a footballer was there; Bill Parry, now Scott’s brother-in-law, was best man. By the time this paragraph meets the eye of his club-mates Scott will be in Blackpool on his honey-moon. Scott has cleared the matrimonial fence, and those members of the club who turned up at St. Saviour’s Church a week ago and others whop anticipated seeing the happy event next week are sorely disappointed.
My heartiest congratulations to Scott in his latest match. Long life and prosperity to Mr and Mrs. Scott!
PATRICK HANLIN
Thickett, the ex-Sheffield United player, who has taken over the managership of Bristol City, has angled round Liverpool with effect, as he has signed on Patrick Hanlin, who performed promisingly for Everton Combination team. Hanlin had to compete with first-class halves to a good number when with the Blues, and the bare fact that he held his position regularly is sufficient evidence of his ability, for at half-back the club was very fortunate both numerically and from a playing point of view. Hanlin can get up a good pace, being a smart sprinter-an essential to a half back- and he should serve the citizens well. He is related, by the way, to Jack Elliott, who has served the club so creditably, and he was one of the Burnbank players when that club won the Scottish Junior Cup.
Keep an especial mem, regarding the Stockport County- Everton Reserve match on October 21, at Goodison. The proceeds go towards the late George Farmer’s widow and children. Tickets for admittance to the match are now ready, and the committee-Messrs Alex Nisbet, George Dobson, and others -will deal them out.
Yesterday I reported the retirement of Mr. Kingscott. Here is a note concerning another referee.
The Welsh Football Association is about to sustain a serious loss in the person of its excellent secretary Mr. W. Nunnerley, who has tendered his recognition. Mr. Nunnerley, who is a First League referee, has discharged secretarial duties for the past two years, and during that time he has made himself exceedingly popular with all sections of the football community in the Principality. The news of his resignation has been received with the utmost regret.

SPORTING GOSSIP
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Friday 29 September 1905
Things in the Liverpool football area are very brisk now. Everton have not had any out of the ordinary practice, the well-tried course of training being adopted. All the men are well, and, after last week’s defeat and the previous blurred play, something sensational in the matter of choice of players may be recorded. Certain players have not given satisfaction; that is common property. Robert Balmer may oust his brother and in the half back line Abbott, of course would have preference over Black, while in the forwards McDermott is ready for service again. McLoughlin is well again, and may be chosen when the selectors meet this evening.
The Everton “boys” have been anxiously asking when Scott, their goalkeeper, intended to join the Benedicts. They have known the event was imminent and good-humouredly teased Scott about it, but not an inkling would he give them of the time and place. Several of them had vowed determination to witness the ceremony and accord the “leather handler” a right royal greeting. Well, it will be news to them to learn that Scott was quietly married to Miss Carlisle, of Everton, on Wednesday, at St. Anne’s Church, Aigburth-road.
PATRICK HANLIN
Liverpool with effect, as he has signed on Patrick Hanlin, who performed promisingly for Everton Combination team.

LIVERPOOL v  EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 29 September 1905
THE REDS’ TEAM IS THE SAME AS LAST WEEK
WHAT’LL HAPPEN?
Bee
There is a philosophic feather of my acquaintance. He bears his little girl cry out from another room, “Father, our Archie’s pulling my hair.” Archie mumbles a reply, and the father, in a gruff voice, exclaims; “If both of you don’t stop your antics I will whack you both.” This is philosophy, and the equal of it is found in Poet Craig’s remark on each occasion as that to be seen at Goodison Park to-morrow. “I hope both teams win.” Really I am somewhat troubled by my task to-day, for I am like Craig; I would like to see both Everton and Liverpool the victorious team; but local sportsmen are so partisans that one has to write with extreme care in case someone should be grievously offended.
Everton v Liverpool! The announcement will draw a crowd to the Park enclosure which has probably never before been equalled. From the time the one o’clock gun has sung out people will make their way to the enclosure and get a good position. Woe betide the stragglers who leave everything till the last moment; they will be locked out. And shareholders and season ticket holders are also warned that they must be in seats by three o’clock. The Politan patriot will proudly boast of the fact that his side had the credit of beating the formidable Northern contingent at Roker, and that the Blackburn black day was to a large degree due to the extensive rainfall, and, furthermore, that they beat the side that beat Villa, who in turn beat the Blues by 4-0. The Everton enthusiast will reply that such form is nothing to go on, and besides did not Villa lay Liverpool low by a bigger margin than four clear goals? This will be followed up by the old proverb that it is a long lane that has no turning, and the Goodison arguer will declare that Saturday is the day appointed when the Blues shall make the bend round the long lane they have been traversing. Then the Everton man will dive into history and trot out the scores of the most recent games which are as follow;-
1904-5-Everton won at the Park, 2-1
1903-4-Everton won at the Park, 5-2, and at Anfield drew 2-2
1902-3-Everton won at the Park, 3-1; and at Anfield drew 3-3
1901-2-Everton won at the Park 4-0; and at Anfield drew 2-2
1900-1-A draw of 3 goals each at the Park; and at Anfield Liverpool won 2-1.
1899-00-Everton won at the Park 3-1; and at Anfield, 2-1
Here the Blue followers will mediate a while, and the Liverpool man will chime in with, “Yes; and the year before that we beat you both times. And going a stage further in the past you will find us sharing the 4 points possible, as also in 1896-7.” And so ends the heated argument, which brings them little nearer to the spot from whence they started.
These points have no bearing on the game of 1905-6, Spectators are in for a rousing time- ninety minutes of exacting football, more vigorous than scientific, perhaps. That’s the worst of the local fight, Zeal we can do with-any amount of it; but recollect that we must consider our neighbours as ourselves. Everyone will sincerely trust that the tactics of the men will be such as will commend themselves to all fair-minded sportsmen.
Everton have a goodly number of players to choose from, and to-night will be set the task of selecting eleven men-a particularly difficult task this week. They have McDermott, McLoughlin, and Rankin open for duty as partner to Sharp. They cannot do better than give the second-named a trial. The other pair have had their trail, and have not justified their positions. Then at back W. Balmer needs a rest. I fancy the younger brother will be given an opportunity, and of course Abbott will displace Black now that his injury is healed.
Liverpool have decided that the eleven that did really good work against Birmingham is best left alone, and so Hewitt will operate at centre, Carlin returning after a long absence through injury to the second team. This policy is an advisable one, and will commend itself to the supporters of the club. There was little to cavil at in their work of last week, and Everton will have their work cut out to keep Liverpool from, scoring if they display similar earnestness and skill. On the other hand, Everton in one of their old-time moods, in which long passing was the instruction to their forwards instead of that cramped play which makes the opposing half-backs’ work easy, would make even Parry, Raisbeck, and Bradley sweat profusely.
  “A.V”.- not Aston Villa, but the initials of a Bootle correspondent-has lapsed into poetry over the Blues and Reds struggle. His rhyme runs like this;-
   When they don the jerseys
      Of the Red and Blue,
    They’re in trim for fighting
    Earnestly and true.
 
  From the throats of thousands
   Cheers will ring on high
   When they see their heroes
   On the field draw nigh

   “Boys! Are we downhearted
       When there’s work to do!”
   “No!” will be the answer
   From the knickered crew.

   Tackling in grim earnest
   Each in turn will try
   Who shall notch a goal first
  To bring victory nigh

  Should the Blues get beaten
    Won’t the Livers crow;
  If the Reds go under
  Won’t the Toffees blow
 
 May the best be victors,
 Whether Red or Blue;
  If the spoil’s divided,
    Honours to the two!

To the tune of “Little drops of water”!!!
Everton second team will be watching the game of the day.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury - Saturday 30 September 1905
Everton v Liverpool! The announcement will draw a crowd to the Park enclosure which has probably never before been equalled. From the time the one o’clock gun has sung out people will make their way to the enclosure and got a good position. Woe betide the stragglers who leave everything till the last moment; they will be looked out. And shareholders and season ticket holders are also warned that they must be in seats by three o’clock. Spectators are in for a rousing time- ninety minutes of exacting football, more vigorous then scientific, perhaps. That’s the worst of the local fight. Zeal we can do with -any amount of it; but recollect that we must consider our neighbours as ourselves. The Everton team will be;- Scott, goal; R. Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Harrison, forwards.
Liverpool have decided that the eleven that did really good work against Birmingham is best left alone, and so Hewitt will operate at centre. Carlin returning after a long absence through injury to the second team. This policy is an advisable one, and will commend itself to the supporters of the club.
Everton second team will be watching the game of the day
Everton v Liverpool
League match at Goodison Park; gates open at 1.30 kick-off 3.30
Everton;- Scott, goal; R. Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Liverpool.- Doig, goal; West and Dunlop, backs; Parry, Raisbeck, and Bradley, half-backs; Goddard, Robinson, Hewitt, Raybould, and Cox, forwards.

GREAT STRUGGLE AT GOODISON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 30 September 1905
EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
EVERTON 2-1 AT INTERVAL
AND FINISH UP VICTORS 4-2
LIVERPOOL’S UNLUCKY SHOOTING
SCOTT TRIUMPHANT
EVERTON FORWARDS BRILLIANT
“F,E,H.” ON THE GAME
GATE MONEY £1,200
Time was when the feeling between adherents of Reds and Blues ran high as ‘twist Capulet and Montague, but now the vendetta is nothing more serious than a mental reservation on the part of each follower that come what may, their own side may win. Apart from the dua; meeting in League fixtures and a possible English Cup encounter, both sides in these days may easily even sympathise with each other’s misfortunes, as they have no grounds for being jealous of each other’s successes.
Today’s encounter between Anfielders and Goodisonian gave promise of providing a game full of incident and excitement, and the result of which-if victory to either side-might give a great flllip to the fortunes of the winning club. Although the teams met in a League encounter in 1894, Liverpool never succeeded in beating Everton until September 25, 1897. But in the 1898-9 season they beat them twice. In the nine engagements which have been decided at Goodison Park, Everton have won seven, lost one, and drawn one, with a goal record of 25 for and 8 against, so that the Reds have been distinctly inferior at Goodison Park. Despite these rather depressing figures the Anfielders’ supporters felt particularly sanguine to-day that their men, being on the top of their form, would succeed in turning the tide which has run steadily against them for seven years. Everton were at their full strength, as Makepeace was in his accustomed place, and McDermott once more partnered Sharp. The Liverpool directors had good reason to be satisfied with Hewitt last week in the centre-forward position which he occupied again to-day. So that, with the exception of the absence of Parkinson, two more representative sides of Reds and Blues could not take the field.
At the last moment Murray was substituted for Dunlop, and the teams turned out as follow;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; R. Balmer and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, McDermott, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Liverpool.- Doig, goal; West and Murray, backs; Parry, Raisbeck (captain), and Bradley, half-back; Goddard, Robinson, Hewitt, Raybould, and Cox, forwards.
Referee; A. Green. Linesmen; H.C. Parr and W. Archer.
After about fifteen minutes’ play Settle scored for Everton.
The weather prior to the match was delightfully fine, although as the time for the kick-off drew near it became somewhat overcast, and long before the commencement of the game there was an enormous crowd present, and at half-past three there were something like 50,000 present. Amongst the company in the directors’ stars was the Lord Mayor of Liverpool. The teams, who came out ten minutes before time, Liverpool leading, were enthusiastically cheered. The home captain lost the toss, and Young had to kick-off, facing the sun. the first move came from the Everton right, Sharp getting down, but being beaten by Murray. Then Cox and Raybould put in some tricky work; but on the first named centring, the ball was captured by Young. Play now settled down on the Everton left, where Hardman was making excellent progress when fouled by Parry.  Abbott’s free kick landed the ball clean in the goal-mouth, but Doig fisted out valiantly. Liverpool now sped off with a splendid rush down their left, and a grand drive by Cox made the leather strike the upright. Scott was well beaten, and had Robinson not failed to get his head to the leather the Reds must have scored. The game now became fast and furious, and there were rapid incursions on both sides. Doig being once more tested. Exchanges in midfield saw Reynolds in possession, but just as Cox secured the leather he was cleverly robbed by Makepeace. A foul against Robinson was taken by Crelley, but just the Blues were closing in Raisbeck checked very finely. The ball went to Cox, who was pronounced offside, and from the free kick Hardman passed to Young, who shot wide. Just afterwards Cox got away, only to be beaten by Balmer, but almost immediately the Liverpool forwards dashed into the Everton territory. A good centre came from Cox, and then Hewitt tested Scott, who put the ball over the bar and gave a corner. This was beautifully place, and Scott had to give a further corner to save the Goddard. The second corner led to a struggle in goal, but finally Parry shot wide. An Everton attack all along the line followed, but just as Everton were driving it home Raisbeck kicked clear. Notwithstanding, the homesters came again. Just when the pressure on the Liverpool lines was becoming dangerous Raybould nipped away smartly with the leather and gave to Cox very comfortably, but the winger got too much speed on the ball, and put it out, much to the chagrin of the Red’s supporters. The Anfielders were very soon in possession once more but failed to make much impression on the Everton defence, although Cox and Raybould put in several telling shots. A nice pass in by Cox gave a sort of opportunity to both Cox and Hewitt, but the home defence was too keen, and later, when Goddard netted with a grand shot he was given offside. Now Everton gained a corner, but this was placed away by Bradley. However, when Cox obtained possession he lost the ball over the touch line. Then Doig saved from Hardman, who had received a beautiful pass from Little. When the game had been in progress some fifteen minutes the three inside men of Everton commenced to work the ball down, and finally flustered Murray to such an extent that Settle found a beautiful opening, of which he was not slow to avail himself. Shooting from mid-range, he sent a low shot straight into the Liverpool net, Doig making a gallant attempt to save, but coming to earth in consequence thereof. The success of the home team raised the enthusiasm of the spectators to a great pitch, the cheering being loud and long continued. Restarting, Bradley sent across to Cox, but Makepeace proved too tricky, and hustled “the speedy one” into touch. Then Young got off only to be pulled up by the referee. Everton now attacked on the other wing, and Murray made a bad miss which Doig coolly retrieved. Raisbeck cleared and from the centre Liverpool made ground on the left, and the leather was once more worked into the centre, when a rattling shot from Raybould forced Cox to concede a corner, which, however, without proving very dangerous, led up to a resumption of the Anfield attack, and once more Scott proved himself in brilliant form by saving from Raybould and Hewitt. Liverpool were now hanging out signals of distress in a line of defence and Murray was outwitted once or twice. Ultimately, pressed back by Settle, he passed back rather erratically to Doig, who was unprepared, and handed the leather past his goal-line, thus conceding an unnecessary corner, which led to the undoing of the Reds as their ball was nicely placed, and Doig was hemmed in with his backs, who were quite unable to get the leather away, and after several attempts had failed Abbott did the trick as he was practically in the goalmouth, and poor Doig was practically helpless. For a while after the second goal had been scored, the vicinity of the Everton goal was the scene of operation, but nothing particularly startling transpired, Cox blundering several times. Suddenly Young broke away and passed out to Hardman, whose centre was somewhat hesitated at by Young, but Sharp came on the scene and shot with tremendous force against the cross bar, the ball then bouncing right over. Just afterwards McDermott followed with a shot with which Doig had no trouble, and then Sharp had a free kick, from which he placed the ball behind the goal. Play continued to be much in favour of Everton, but at length Liverpool broke away, Cox and Raybould working well. But Hewitt being too late to receive from Cox. Liverpool then forced a corner, but failed to improve upon it, and then the home contingent took up the attack once more, Young working round Bradley and making a bold bid for goal. Again Young looked like scoring when Murray brought him down heavily close to goal, but the free kick came to nothing. McDermott, Young, Sharp, and Taylor made matters warm for the Liverpool men, and Raybould in trying to rob Sharp, gave a corner to his opponents. However, Everton failed to improve this advantage, and slowly, but surely, the Reds worked down to the front of the Everton goal, where for some time they kept the home defence in tenterhooks. The Reds were now in the Evertonian territory, but their efforts seemed so weak that no tangible result seemed imminent. Suddenly, however, Cox put in an electric centre which was too quick for Robinson, but Goddard trapped the leather cleverly and returned into the goalmouth, the Liverpool forwards rapidly closing in, and after Scott and Balmer had made ineffectual efforts to reach the leather, Hewitt got at it, and in a trice Scott was beaten. Restarting, the Blues paid their rivals a visit, but for the moment the dash and life of the game had subsided and matters were proceeding quietly when the whistle announced the interval.
Half-time score; Everton 2 Goals, Liverpool 1 Goal.
Commencing the second half, a pass back to Raisbeck to give Liverpool an opening, but the ball coming back to Bradley he enabled his side to attack from right and left, and finally Scott handled a beauty from Goddard. Cox next tried the Everton warder, who cleared just as Raybould made a determined effort to rush him through. Taylor fed his men, and they rushed off merrily, the ball travelling speedily up the right, from whence it was put across by McDermott to Hardman, who was placed well up, and he headed past, Doig scoring the easiest goal imaginable. Strong pressure by the Anfielders nearly resulted in the downfall of the Everton goal. After Cox had been sadly hampered by Balmer he managed to get in his centre, and then a rare struggle commenced for possession, Cox coming in again at the finish and sending in as very fine shot which Scott saved at the corner of the goal. Everton broke away, but were immediately penalised for offside, and a free-kick led up to a further onslaught on the Everton goal. The attacking party were extraordinarily eager, but the defence was tenacious, and gave nothing away. Scott tripped over bar a shot which came from a throng of players. Parry sent in a weak one, and a fierce shot came from Robinson which gained another corner, but neither from this nor the previous one could the Anfielders gain any further advantage, although the close assault was maintained for at least five minutes. The Blues now rushed away in line, circumventing the Liverpool half back line completely, and Murray advanced to meet Sharp, who was in possession, but he made only a wrenched effort to check the cricketer, who beat him easily, and then “Jack” went full steam ahead. At the last moment Doig left his goal, but without altering his course Sharp shot straight, and then found the net. Cox raced along his wing, but was beaten by Makepeace and a somewhat easy attack was then made on the Liverpool goal, at the end of which Young shot eventually, and Doig had no difficulty in saving. Makepeace fouled Cox, and from the free kick Robinson shot a foot wide; then Goddard presented Hewitt with a fine centre, but the Liverpool centre was again too late to take advantage. A few moments’ delay occurred through McDermott being injured, but when the game was resumed the Liverpool men kept up the attack. The homesters broke away, and Young worked through and then passed out to Sharp, who shot with great force straight at Doig, who brought off an easy save. The Liverpool men were soon back at the other end, and here Goddard shot for goal for all he was worth. The ball sailed away towards the mark, and cannoned off Hewitt into the net, the Evertonians making a vain appeal for offside. Play slackened down to some extent for a while, only occasional bursts being made by either side. On one occasion Young made an easy passage, and had no one but Doig to beat, but he again shot weakly, and Doig had an easy clearance. A little more life was put into the game by some pretty passing by the Everton front rank, and, owing to a weak clearance by Murray, the ball forced its way to the front of the goal, from which point Young shot over the crossbar. Another delay occurred owing to an accident to Crelly, and when the game was resumed Taylor and McDermott each made futile attempts at goal-potting. Then Robinson turned Settle over, but from the free kick the ball went across the goalmouth. Good work by Goddard gave Robinson a chance; but although a corner was gained, it stopped at that. Just afterwards Cox sent the ball across, and Parry headed into goal, Scott saving very smartly. Liverpool put on further pressure, and a fine passing movement landed them in front of the Everton post, they being unlucky in not getting through. Abbott gave a barren corner, and after a long return by Murray, Parry neatly headed the ball into goal, Scott again saving. Everton broke away, Liverpool made a return move, and the game ended in midfield.
Final Result; Everton 4 Goals, Liverpool 2 Goals.
BEE’S SNAPSHOT
It was a great day. Everything was on the large scale for the match of the season. The band whiled away the time so preciously spared by the early enthusiast who took up his stand at Goodison Park from 1.30, the time when the gates were opened, to the time of kick-off. Favours of Blue and Red was in great demand, and so were the rattles who which to make the whelkin ring when the favourite team scored- if they did manage to perform this all-important feat. The great green sward looked absolutely perfect, and the ground was absolutely packed. Hundreds of tons of ashes have been deposited on the Everton  banks, and the increase of accommodation is material besides which the crowd on the sixpenny side appreciate the best view with which they are now provided. The crowd grew by leaps and bounds. At two o’clock there were some 5,000 people present, at 2.30 there would be 15,000, at three o’clock 20,000, at 3.15 the number was something like 25,000, and at the kick-off 30,000 with the legend. “Still they come demonstrated. The thirty-five entrances are in full swing. It was a mammoth gathering, and neither players nor spectators yielded sunshades, for after a glorious morning of sunshine the weather broke a little and black clouds hovered round. The rain held off, however, and a haze-seemed like to lift. News cam to hand of an unfortunate character for the ‘Politans. Their steward Dunlop was away. He twisted his knee at Woolwich, then stood out of the team against Blackburn and Villa. When he resumed last week it was early seen that his knee had one again, and though he lasted through the ninety minutes it was only his pluck that enabled him to do so. Murray filled the vacancy. It will set a number of friends at rest if I give the holding capacity of the ground since it rearrangement. It is computed by the officials that they can squeeze 55,000 into the enclosure. Among the vast crowd to-day were the Lord Major of Liverpool, and a number of City Councillors. Liverpool were out first, and soon after their friend appeared. R. Balmer it is said, the lucky man of the team, and when he partners Crelley it is a good sigh, raid the Evertonian hopefully. Raisbeck won the toss just as the sun shone out brilliantly, and straightway the Blues plied Sharp, who could not do better than put outside. A foul through Hardman being tripped, and Abbott was testing Doig with the free kick. The compliment was returned, Cox dropping in a characteristic centre. Off went the home forward again towards Doig, and they had not been near Doig a moment ere Cox received, and middling past Balmer, careered off. Crelley cut across and tripped him. However, he kept on his feet, and the referee let him carried on, but he did not improve on the advantage. Now Scott received plaudits of the most loudly, he saved magnificently from Hewitt, and Goddard, both hot shots and well directed. Everton were not going to sit quietly and under this pressure, and Sharp put in a delightful touch and run and lifted the ball towards Doig. Young was not there! In the distance we saw Hardman tearing along, and as he got his chest to the ball so Doig tapped it clear. Goddard scored as the result of a move contributed by Bradley and Parry, and the linesmen and were referee were agreed that the outside right was offside when he received the ball. So it didn’t count. Three corners to the Blues were not improved upon, and the old-time brilliance in the matter of heading was missing.  Everton opened their account after a quarter of an hour’s fierce fighting. Settle received after Murray had been slack, and with a low hard drive was able to see Doig lying full length and the ball resting in the desired haven. A finer shot from four yards from the penalty area could not be imagined. Ding-Dong is the best description of play, and though one down, the Reds  off with as much, if not more, determination, and from one of Goddard accurate centres Hewitt had a good chance. He tried to place his ball, the ball, and saved what was a more certainty. A second goal! Dunlop was missed and Murray, in a flurry, passed back to Doig wide of the mark, and from the former Abbott got his foot to the ball in a ruck, and the total two. The Politans, didn’t known what to think of it. They had been playing better football, and yet were two down. Furthermore, Murray stood still while Hardman centre Sharp banged one in from a few yards range, and hit the crossbar, with Doig beaten. The two goals to the Blues was invigorating medicine upon them, and attacked with renewed vigour, once Doig’s left handed punches as safe as he though he was surrounded by players. Young had been quietly plodding along, and after he had shown them he was still playing, shooting just wide of the mark and at slow rate, he walked through and led to Young and Raisbeck were injured, and the referee giving a throw up under the new regulations it was a down. Everton now had a reverse-the resulting play well worked movement which originated by Raisbeck, and was continued by Cox, and Goddard and beautifully completed by Hewitt, who did not hesitate. He improves almost in the shooting department, does Hewitt.
Half-time came just as Murray give a corner needlessly. It had been a really good half, and the score (2-1) just about gave the clubs their deserts. The general opinion was shared by friend and foe of each side that Everton were the better eleven, inasmuch as they took all they chances that came their way, and they was pretty numerous, with Murray so ineffective and uncertain. To Everton congratulations and to Liverpool sympathies. To both sides thanks for providing a fine struggle with introduction of any shady tactics.