September 1887

LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 September 1887
AMONGST THE COWBOYS
No better proof of the growing popularity of the winter game at Everton is wanting than the large crowd-5,000 is under the mark—which lined the ropes at Anfield-road ground on Saturday. The defeat of Everton by Witton by five goals to three was received with astonishment by their supporters. Belying on the new composition of the team, a deal of “cock-sureness” was exhibited. Of course, a little latitude must be allowed in that the new importations can hardly have got into each other’s style of play, which was plainly observable on Saturday. Everything augured a good game, and the bright sunshine gave animation to the surroundings. Amongst the spectators was a significant group—Mexican Joe and his troupe from the Exhibition. The company arrived at the ground in their “Tombstone Carriage,” just before the game started, and they walked to the stand were greeted with rounds of applause. Of course, Mexican Joe and his “wee wifie” came in for special notice. The cow-boys, hardy-looking fellows, and a jovial crew withal, seemed to take great interest in the game, the various points of which were explained to them. Perhaps Mexican Joe will take it into his head to introduce this kind of sport in prairie-land when he returns. The party did not witness the whole of the game, but left at half-time. With regard to the quality of the teams there were one or two deviations from the published list on the Witton side, whilst Joliffe, the trusted goalkeeper, appeared for the first time in the Everton ranks.
A LATE START
Five o’clock is not a convenient nor reasonable time to commence a football match, especially on a Saturday afternoon, and what didn’t mend matters the players failed to get at it until twenty minutes later. Horsfield started the leather for Witton, whose superior play soon manifested itself. Once started their forwards rushed down upon their opponents’ goal as if they had been summoned to a banquet, and before many minutes had elapsed Horsfield had scored the first goal. Everton had one or two corners, which, however, were badly placed, and then Farmer shot behind. About the nicest bit of passing here took place between Haresnape and Grimshaw, which was speedily recognised by the spectators, whose expressions seemed to denote a wish that their men could do the same. Everton forwards please copy. The Wittonians still pressed, but at length their opponents broke through, and Fleming most unluckily struck the cross-bar. Matters became a little exciting at the mouth of the Witton goal, and it is impossible to say what would have occurred but for some good back play. At this point the two visitors’ left wingers were uninterrupted in a smart run, and placing the leather midfield Horsfield scored a second time. .Play alternated somewhat up to half-time, though before this arrived Jolifife failed to save one from Almond, Watson just managing to open the Everton score. Witton 3, Everton 1.
A POOR LOOK OUT
The prospect of victory for the homesters was not worth much at this stage. Hostilities were resumed and bang went another goal for the visitors. It was now that the Evertonians really showed fight, for the forwards buckled on their armour and set to work with a will. Sharpies was soon called upon to repel, which did and after flying visit to both ends the leather found its way through the visitors’ goal.  Neat short passing told with effect in the play of the Liverpool man, one result being that Cassidy notched the third and last point for them.  Another point for Witton, and then play ceased after a tough fight the visitors being victorious by five to three.  Their splendid passing contributed to this result to a great degree, and was the theme of admiration by the spectators.  Horsfield was the beat in the bunch, though all the Witton forwards are entitled to a little praise. The agile Sharples was, as usual, active in goal, and put his compeer, Joliffe, who hardly came up to expectations, in the shade. Let the Everton players exhibit more combination and their chances of victory will improved.
HOME CRITICISM
Our Liverpool correspondent, writing on the game, says:—This will not do. It is a long time since Everton have been seen to so little advantage at the opening of their season as has been the case this year. The followers of the club are asking, ‘Are we past the zenith? Surely no. There is a great future in store for Everton; a few defeats like those recently sustained will be of the greatest assistance to the club’s managers, if only viewed from a proper standpoint. No time must be lost in at once dealing with the situation. For some reason or other Joliffe seems to have lost confidence in himself. This is a pity, as everyone knows he has rare ability as a custodian, and this fact was recognised in the most enthusiastic reception accorded him as he appeared in his old place in the team. There is no getting away from the fact that Gibson’s style is quite unsuited to the Everton play, and he does not show signs of assimilation; rather the other way. Higgins is still good, but not brilliant as of old, and Murray did not improve on his first display. Thus the whole line of half-backs, though not absolutely poor, is by no means what it should be for a team like Everton. Forward, all will be well if Cassidy be a little more inclined to seek play, instead of waiting for it to be made for him. He certainly proved of little service to Farmer in last Saturday's match. Disappointing as the opening matches have proved, there is little fear that the big crowds will be sent home to tea in bad humour with things in general during the coming reason. The team which represented Witton was a most admirable combination. During the coming season they must be held in great respect by the very best clubs in the county. The ability of Sharples as a goalkeeper needs no mention here. Frank Shorrocks and Smith are two sturdy and safe backs. The halves are young, active and clever, and the forwards combine speed, individual skill and power of combination in a very high degree.

EVERTON V BURY
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 September 1887
The sun shone out after heavy rain, this afternoon at Liverpool.  There were 4,000 spectators present.  Everton won the toss and Bury kicked off.  The Bury goal was soon in danger, and Wolstenholme then relieved.  Everton came with a rush and Farmer headed over.  After ten minutes play Gibson scored the first for Everton and a pass by Goudie, and Watson notched a second goal, Dick a third and Fleming a fourth.  Half-time; Everton 4, Bury nil. 

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 03 September 1887

  • Everton spectators know well how to behave themselves.
  • Why do Everton kick-off at the mongrel hour of five o’clock?
  • Everton v Witton was patronized by Mexican Joe’s cowboys.
  • Witton are apparently well coached this season.  Their passing quite won the Everton spectators.
  • Everton will have to smarten up.  To lose all their practice matches is not the way to fetch the crowd.
  • The Everton Executive have at length learned that it is necessary to provide suitable accommodation. 

COWBOYS AND FOOTBALL
September 3, 1887. The Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser
On Saturday afternoon the Everton Football Club were favoured with a visit from Mexican Joe and his troupe. The Americans were driven (under the guidance of Mr. Ramsey) to the ground of the club. Anfield, in their “Tombstone Carriage,” and received a hearty welcome from the large number of people who assembled. A very interesting game of football was being played between members of Witton and Everton clubs. The features of the game were pointed out to the Americans, who appeared deeply interested in it. They seemed to think there was plenty of scope for its cultivation in American. Possibly if they return to their frontier life they may teach the young braves of the Wild West to play football; and the Uncas of the future may become as proficient in the “kicking game” as their forefathers were with the rifle.

Everton v Bury
September 5 th 1887. The Liverpool Mercury
This match took place on the Everton ground in the presence of about 3,000 spectators. It was a very one-sided affair all through, Everton doing pretty much as they liked. At 5-15 Bury kicked off against the wind. Everton immediately pressed, and after some rather poor play on both sides –Gibson scored with a low swift shot. Fleming now distinguishing himself by some fine play, his screwing in being very good, through nothing came from his efforts. Bury broke away, but Dobson, by some dashing work, again brought the ball into the visitors' quarters the downfall of whose goal was nearly brought about by a good shot from Fleming. A grand dribble of the Everton forwards resulted in the second goal being kicked, Watson doing the needful. Shots rained thick and fast for the next 20 minutes on the Bury fortress, Wright playing very smartly. Dick then kicked the third goal. A fourth was got immediately after, the forwards rushing the ball through. The visitors were now laterality trenched in and at this juncture one of the visitors full backs went in goal. Fleming's screw shot brought down great applause, and after this the Bury goal had narrow escapes. At last Goodie got the ball, and, with a daisy cutter lessened the visitors' colours for the fifth goal. The weakness of the Bury backs, Everton were now very apparent and their efforts to stay the rushes of the home forwards were futile. At half-time the game stood Everton 5 goals; Bury 0. On resuming play, Everton pressed, and Farmer sent in a beautiful shot, which struck the crossbar, but Fleming was in wait and his headed and scored the sixth goal. The visitor's custodian was next floored at stopping a good attempt on the part of Fleming. Directly afterwards Murray kicked the ball into the Bury goal mouth and the forwards rushed it through, scoring the seventh goal. The visitor's forwards broke away, but Dick, Dobson, and Gibson were too much for them. A word must be said, however, for the pluck of the Bury forwards, if not for their play. They worked hard, but were outclassed. A terrific scrimmage in the vicinity of the visitors' goal raised the excitement of the spectators to the highest pitch, and well it might, when on more than one occasion the ball might easily have been sent through the goal, but for some reason or other the Everton forwards could not kick it. The applause of the spectators was frequently given to the Bury goalkeeper, who was playing a rattling game. He stopped a hot shot from Cassidy. But Goodie beat him with a beauty, scoring the eight goal. Bury defence was very good at this point, but Higgins sent in one just out of the custodian's reach, and notched the ninth goal. Farmer here made a good attempt at scoring and then time was called, Everton being the winners of a one-sided game by 9 goals to nil. Teams; - Bury; - Goal, Wright; Backs, Rossand, and Gibent; half-backs, Wright Clark, and Malpas; forwards, Haworth, Les, Douglas, Pollack, and Hutchins. Everton; - Goal, Jolliffe; backs, Dick and Dobson (captain); half-backs, Higgins, Gibson and Murray; forwards, Cassidy, Farmer, Goodie, Watson and Fleming, forwards.

EVERTON V BURY
Athletic News - Tuesday 06 September 1887
At Anfield, before 4,000 spectators.  During the first half of the game Everton had a lot the best of the play, and succeeded in scoring five goals, Bury failing to notch a point.  During the second half the home team still held the lead, and scoring another four goals, won easily; score;- Everton 9 goals, Bury none. 
Everton after a series of reserveses, had a turn of good fortune on Saturday, when, however, they caught Bury napping.  The latter, unfortunately, were eight short of their advertised team, only three of their last year’s Fifteen turning up in Ross, sen, Ross Jun, and F. Wright.  Everton had a lot of the best of the game during the first period of play, scoring five goals to nothing, Joliffe not even touching the ball.  The second half was a repetition of the first-a constant bombardment of the Bury goal.  Four further goals were added and Bury were beaten pointless by nine goals to nothing. 

Football notes.
September 10 th 1887. The Liverpool Daily Post
Those who have not yet visited the Everton ground since last season cannot help being struck by the great changes for the better, both for the players and for the accommodation of the public. The field, which previously was very uneven, has been dug up and levelled. The railings at both goals each have been boarded to prevent crowding on the touchline. The low ground on the stand side has been raised, and last, but not least, a magnificent gallery erected, which will afford ample accommodation for the patrons of the Everton Football club to witness the game in comparative comfort. The opening matches of the season resulted disastrously to the Evertonians. Upon one occasion the faulty lay chiefly in the faulty shooting at goal, and the next there is no disguising the fact that the match was lost entirely through bad goalkeeping. Since, then however, the morale of the team has undergone a change, and the game against Bury last Saturday augurs well to the coming season upon which we are entering. The last addition to the team seems to be a most judicious one.

EVERTON SMILE AGAIN
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 September 1887
A TURN IN THE TIDE
By “Evertonian”
It is hardly too much to assert that satisfaction general and genuine reigned supreme at Everton on Saturday night.  The strong ebb of adversity which had set against the Liverpool Cup holders since the opening of the season, suddenly changed to a spring tide in the other direction; hence jubilation of no mean order in and around the Sandon was the order of the day.  A fact, the indefatigable “Alec” face was a feature.  There was certainly a great change in the Bury team from what it was last year, but a drubbing of nine goals to none is a caution.  The favoured the start of the game, and we have ever seen the Everton ground look so well.  The immense gallery at the Walton Breck-road was well filled, the sides ditto, and the beautiful green of the young grass which is springing up, lent a warm to the whole. 
THE START
About ten minutes after the advertised time a start was made, Parkinson for Bury doing the needful, and in less time than it takes to write the fact it became manifest that Everton were fairly on the job, and that poor Bury had come a week too late.  Everton had a new man in the centre, Gouldie, and for a first performance he certainly justified his selection.  The whole team played in rare form, and it was not therefore surprising to find that the game was almost entirely confined to the visitors’ half.  Fleming was the first to cause Bury some anxiety, but the sturdy little half-back Wolstenholme repelled the shot very smartly.  The ball was sent to the centre of the field, but, being returned by the halves to the forwards, the latter almost nonplussed the visitors’ back division by their very clever passing but again the ball was cleared.  The respite was but short as Gibson got on the ball, and, at the second time of asking, got the ball through amidst great cheering.  It soon became apparent that Everton had Bury at their own price, and Murray created considerable amusement through his peculiar but effective style of keeping the man off by appearing to be going for him like a bull at a gate, a proceeding which at once secured a wide berth, the visitors apparently fighting shy of a sturdy half-back.  We were much pleased, however, by his very judicious kicking. 
CORNERS AT A DISCOUNT
The Everton back division rarely allowed the ball to get beyond midfield, and by the aid of the halves, who were keenly alive to the necessity for doing something desperate, the forwards were splendidly fed, and corner after corner fell to their lot, but the defence being good, no improvement was made on the advantages thus gained.  At length Goudie receiving the ball darted off, and when within a few yards of the goal passed to Watson, and without a pause went straight for the Bury custodian, whilst his wing man dashed the leather through.  It is hardly necessary to follow the game through the different stages any further, as Everton scored three more goals before half-time, Dick, Fleming and Gouldie in turn putting the ball under; and again in the second half, Fleming, Watson, Gouldie, and Higgins being the executants. 
THE VISITORS TEAM
We have noticed a statement that only two or three of the advertised team were present at Everton, which might account for the great defeat.  The fact appears to be that Bury failed to furnish the names of their men, and last year’s lot were but on the card.  There was not much combination, and the first man tried in goal was a decided failure; but it was generally admitted that Wolstenholme, who was tried in the second half, was a great improvement.  If the Evertonians continue to play in the form which they displayed on Saturday, it will be quite safe to predict a most successful season. 

LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 September 1887
A DISAPPOINTMENT
In the Everton list of fixtures, perhaps Bury occupied a lower position amongst the clubs of the day than any others to be met with.  But they have always created such a very favourable impression at Anfield, that a match with them proves very attractive.  At least such has been the case up till now, but I am afraid by their display last Saturday they have considerably lost in this particular neighbood.  True, the eleven which did duty was the merest shadow of that by which Bury has hitherto been represented.  This was very discouraging to those who looked for something more than a procession, but it enabled the home eleven to put on a big score, a record of nine to nil being a very satisfactory opening to the season proper so far as records are concerned. 
A ONE-SIDED GAME
Everton were playing a new centre, Gouldie, and he created a most favourable impression.  Indeed the whole team showed to far greater advantage than in any of the opening games, but the game with Darwen today will be a far better gauge of their form, as there was not much opposition to face in the match under notice.  It had been a most unfavorable day, but cleared up wonderfully by the time for starting, and there was another big gate, something like 6,000.  Everton soon got to work and goals were rapidly scored, no less than five having been taken at the interval.  Dick was responsible for one of these and Gibson for another, so that it will be conceived there was not much defence going on in the Everton quarter.  Four more goals were afterwards scored, and this against much better defence than in the first half, for the Everton forwards passed in their very best style and indeed showed vast improvement on previous displays.  A very one-sided match then was won by Everton by nine to nil.
THE ASSOCIATION CUP
The committee of the Football Association met on Monday night at their offices, Holbern Viaduct, London.  It was generally understood that the draw would be made, but this was postponed until Monday next on what grounds we were unable to gather.  We believe the Committee arranged the electoral divisions, which are to come into operation this season according to the new rules of the Association.  Several cases of professional registration came on and were settled.  The following are the entries for the Cup.  It will been seen that the Scotch clubs are absent from the list consequent upon the new rules of the Scottish Association which forbids them to enter;-

EVERTON V DARWEN
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 September 1887
This match was played at Everton today, before 5,000 spectators.  Darwen was an hour late.  Darwen kicked-off against a strong oblique wind, which spoiled good play.  Everton gained a number of corners, but failed to improve on them.  A grand scuffle in front of Darwen goal caused great excitement, but an opening could not be found.  Rostron Joliffe made a fine run but just saved.  A corner followed, but at half-time, neither side had scored.  Final Result; Everton 1, Darwen 0.

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 10 September 1887

  • Everton still drawn the crowds.
  • ‘Still they come,” is the cry at Everton.
  • Davie Weir seems to be quite a favourite at Bootle.
  • “Weir” is J. Weir of the 3rd L.R.V! Enquire, Post Office, Bootle.
  • The only county match played in Lancashire will take place on October 22nd on the Everton ground.  Mr. Nisbet offered everything free.  The match is with Dumbartonshire.

Everton V. Darwen
September 12, 1887. The Liverpool Mercury
This match took place on the Anfield-road ground in the presence of about 5,000 spectators. Both teams were well represented. The ground as in good condition, but good play was spoiled by a strong gusty wind, which blew diagonally across the ground. The visitors arrived late and play was commenced at five o'clock, an hour after the advertised time. Thompson kicked off for Darwen with the wind against them. The Everton forwards got the ball, and good dribble resulted in Watson shooting wide. They resumed the attack, but some good kicking on J. Marsden's part retrieved the pressure. Cassidy now earned applause by sending in a nice shot, but the ball was kicked out, and two corners fell in succession to Everton. Goudie here distinguished himself with a shot which just skimmed the bar, and then heading the ball just- over a narrow shave. The Everton forwards dribbed in grand style, notably Macpherson and Watson but their efforts to send the ball through the Darwen goals were futile. Many times the ball was emotionless for a few seconds a short distance in front of the visitors' fortress, but luck was against Everton and they could not score. Everton were pressing now very much but the monotony was somewhat relieved when the Darwen forwards broke away, and caused Joliffe to throw out. Holden now saved some good attempts by Farmer and Goudie, and at this juncture a Darwen forward was hurt, and had to leave the field. This had a great effect on the visitors front division, as they played very disjoint for the rest of the game, Higgins was conspicuous just now by sending in a grand corner kick, which went high in the air, and being carried by the wind, dropped right in the middle of the visitors' goal; but it was cleared magnificently, the play of the backs and goalkeeper being a treat. Undoubtedly, it was the strong defence of the backs which stopped Everton from scoring. Half-time was called, both teams crossing over with a clean sheet. It was thought that Darwen would do the pressing now, but throughout this half Everton had considerably the best of the game, the visitors' forwards only occasionally showing up, and then they were very nearly scoring. Joliffe surprising many by his agility. A splendid scrimmage in front of the Darwen goal plainly showed the ability of Holden, and the way in which he repelled shots from Farmer and Murray, and then finally gave Watson a premature “header” over his back caused the crowd to fairly roar with excitement. A miss-kick by Dobson followed by a wild flying attempt by Joliffe, caused the hearts of the home supporters to beat pretty fast, judging from the excitement then apparent. Darwen were doing a little pressing, and Joliffe had all his time occupied in stopping some good shots, one, which was just going under the bar, being well saved. The Everton forwards here dribbled the length of the field, and Farmer sent in a splendid shot, which Holden caught, and so fumbled that it went through, thus giving the first point to Everton. The home forwards played up with renewed ardour and the saves of Holden were surprising, the backs seconding his efforts well. When time was called Everton were left the victors by one goal to nil. Teams; Darwen;- Holden, goal; J. Marsden and T. Marsden, backs; Thornber, Owen and Dearden, half-backs; Rostron, Strachan, Thompson, Cawson, and Shorrock, forwards. Everton;- Joliffe, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins Gibson and Murray, half-backs; Cassidy, Farmer, Gougie, McPherson, and Watson, forwards.

Everton v Darwen
September 12 th 1887. The Liverpool Daily Post
The above clubs met at Everton on Saturday, this bring the first meeting for a couple of seasons. Darwen brought down their full strength, but owing to the want of promptitude on the part of the Lancashire and Yorkshire the team were almost an hour late. The Everton players were in the field a few minutes after the appointed time, and thus had a tedious wait. Everton won the toss and turned their backs to the oblique wind, which gave them a certain amount of advantage, but which upset their best efforts at combined play. Thompson, for Darwen, kicked off, and the visitors' end was taken possession of by the home players, Watson put in a nice run and passed to his wingman. Goudie returned it to him again, but the former, who had a fair good opening shot very wide. Shorrock and Carson worked the leather back, but were stopped by Gibson who touched the ball to the left. Cassidy from this point centred nicely; but J. Mardsen kicked clear, Murray met the ball and again Mardesn defended smartly, and sending to the right gave, Rostron a chance of getting off. His career was brought to a sudden stop by Murray, which allowed the Everton captain to sent the ball first to the right wing. Dearden got in a timely kick, however, and in repling to Dick shot over the crossbar. The next movement of interest was brought about by Goudie and McPherson, the latter heading into the goalmouth, Holden saving at the cost of a corner. The visitors' backs cleared well, Dobson replied, and Watson again had a shy at goal. Another unproductive corner followed, and then the unlucky McPherson skimmed the bar, the ball passing over. From the kickout the Darwen left got away, but were splendidly folled by Dick, and McPherson headed over. Darwen then paid a fleeting visit to the other end, and in reply Goudie, Watson and McPherson put in a pretty run back. A corner followed, but without advantage. Goudie next tried a long shot, Holden fisted out, and McPherson meeting the ball again headed over. A fierce scuffle soon followed in the Darwen goalmouth but the defenders kept their charge intact, the escape being marvellous. Roustron at last got well under way, and raced along the right wing and shot in, Joliffe saved and Everton were soon at the other end, where McPherson was again very unfortunate in his shooting, and immediately afterwards changed places with Goudie. This player at once got well up, and Holden hit out a splendid shot from him. McPherson and Higgins also sent in good shots, but the Darwen goalkeeper played in rare form. half-time was reached without either side scoring. After the change of ends Goudie kicked off, Darwen playing a man short, Cawson having retired lame. The visitors now had the advantage of the breeze, but the superior passing of the home team was now seen to advantage, and, despite the difficulties of working the ball against the wind, it gradually but surely came towards the Darwen goal, and Holden had to fist out two shots which came in quick succession. Hands against Everton eased the pressure, and Darwen made play on the left. Farmer retaliated by a magnificent dribble and shot which was just saved at the cost of a corner. Darwen now had a warn couple of minutes, corner after corner falling to Everton, but nothing came of them. For the first time J. Marsden missed his kick, and Holden was only just in time to save. Strachan and Rontron got clear, and in attempting an overhead kick Murray gave a corner. Dobson cleared, Thornber returned the ball, which was beautifully met within a yard of the home goal by Higgins who kicked clear. Darwen however, returned to the charge, Shorrock shot in, Joliffe fisted clear, and Cassidy aided by Farmer worked along the left. Owen pulled them up, and sent in a fine shot, which was well hit out by Jollife. The Evertonians now made strenuous efforts to get down the field and Farmer receiving the ball from Higgins sent in a terrific shot, which Holden appeared to stop, but the ball twisted out of his hands, fell under the bat, and, amidst tremendous cheers the first and only goal was announced. After the kick off Cassidy kicked the wrong way, Murray corrected the error, and Higgins sent in a warm one, Farmer doing likewise a little later on, but both shots were well saved. Hands against Everton relieved for a few minutes, until McPherson and Watson executed a smart run down the right Marsden kicking out to save the danger. Time soon afterwards was called, leaving Everton winners of a hard fight by one goal to nil. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins Gibson and Murray, half-backs; Cassidy, Farmer, Gougie, McPherson, and Watson, forwards. Darwen; - Holden, goal; J and T. Marsden, backs; Dearden, Owen and Thornber, half-backs; Shorrock, Cowson, Thompson, Strachan, and Rothron, forwards.

EVERTON V DARWEN
Athletic News - Tuesday 13 September 1887
At Liverpool, 5,000 spectators.  Everton had choice of ends, and played with the wind.  Nothing was scored in the first half, though Everton had many chances.  When half through the second portion Farmer scored well for Everton.  This was the only goal scored.  Result; Everton one goal, Darwen none.
EVERTON IN THE ASCENDANT.
Everton took the measure of Darwen on Saturday, and after somewhat tame and not very skillful display, got the verdict of one goal nil. The strong oblique wind was against clever play, and during the first half Everton, with the breeze behind them, though they did all the pressure, were far from at home, many of the shots being ludicrously flighty.  Holden, the Darwen keeper, during the trying ordeal, was very cool and worked cleverly, the brothers Marsden giving excellent assistance, and were changed with a clean sheet.  Later on, facing the wind, the home forwards steadied down, whilst the visitors attack improved and the contest generally was more equal; but a grand forward movement-the only one of the day- culminated twenty minutes before “Time” in Farmer shooting past Holden, and gave Egerton what turned out to be the winning notch.  The winners’ strong points were centre and left wing Fleming’s substitute being not always so sure, while Darwen, who played a man short part of the time, reveled in defence. 

WITH THE LIVERPOOL CLUBS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 September 1887
MORE CHANGES AT EVERTON
The gradual changes in the Everton team were further developed last week, when Macpherson, another player from the Land-o-Cakes, displaced Fleming on the right wing in the match against Darwen.  With four new forwards the Everton attack has undergone a complete change, and it remains to be seen to what effect.  There is one thing to be noticed, and that is the change in the mode of attack which in former seasons consisted of sudden and startling rushes, by which the opposing defence was at times completely overborne.  Individual brilliance is now merged in methodical but perhaps more effective combination, and the new mode affords indications of the adoption of that unselfish, close and effective passing which has made such clubs as Aston Villa and Preston North End famous.  All the new players are distinguished by complete self-abnegation, and the only survivor of the old gang has apparently become imbued with the same spirit.  Saturday last was anything but a good day for the forwards, but there were not lacking indications of the new style of play to which we are to be treated in the future.  Murray improves on acquaintance, and will no doubt falsify some adverse first impressions. 
DARWEN AT EVERTON
An hour late, Darwen got a warm welcome appearing at Anfield-road, for the five or six thousand assembled spectators were very eager for the game, which, however, turned out somewhat of a disappointment.  Everton won by a goal to nil, but had far more of the attack than this would indicate.  In the first half Everton played with a strong wind, and the wind played with their shots for goal.  They were numerous indeed, but Holden had not many to negotiate, whilst the Marsdens intercepted a good many well-directed shies.  Thus the first half passed, and there was just a little quickening of the Everton pulse when they faced the stiff breeze without an account.  But Darwen were now a forward short, through the retirement of Cawson, and the others did not make up in energy for their diminution did far more of the pressing again, although the game was well advanced before Holden just failed to deal with one of Farmer’s hottest, and Everton secured the long looked for and anxiously awaited goal.  Joliffe had not quite a sinecure in the Everton goal, and Thompson troubled their defenders somewhat persistently.  There was too much of the veteran in the Darwen attack, which was wanting in vim, and they were ultimately beaten by one to nil. 
THE CUP DRAW
The draws for the Lancashire and English Cups have produced a big task for each of the three principal local clubs.  Everton have to face Witton for the Lancashire trophy and Bolton Wanderers for the national.  The former is to be played at home, the latter away. 

ANOTHER VIEW OF THE EVERTON VICTORY
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 September 1887
HOPES AND FEARS
By “Mickey Free”
Speculation was rife on the heights of Everton during the week as to how their pets would perform against the strong team which it was known Darwen were going to bring.  The croakers, who are to found like bad coin, almost everywhere, were not slow in predicting a big defeat, chiefly because the committee had not seen their way to soap poor Joliffe’s hands and knees and slide him out, to make room for a better man- they forgot to say where the better man was to come from.  Well, many a time and oft have I seen the unpresuming Charley keep goal as well as any of our Lancashire cracks.  It must be admitted however, that his form is not consistent-more’s the pity.  Another growl was that Fleming was away on his holidays, but the substitute (Macpherson), although he had been travelling all night, performed very well in the field, and so the grumblers were sat on. 
LANCASHIRE YORKSHIRE LIGHTNING EXPRESS
The spectators, who numbered perhaps a little over 5,000, were much beholden to the L. and Y. for their magnificent express service.  The journey from Darwen only occupied something like three and a half hours, which enabled the team to land at Everton just one hour behind the advertised time.  Fortunately the weather was fine, and the home team kept the spectators amused, but an hour’s practice, even though it be of the skylarking stamp, does not help players to stand well out for ninety minutes’ hard play. 
A BIG BREEZE AND BAD SHOOTING
Everton won the toss and availed themselves of the advantage of a strong Nor’-Wester, which caused the Darwen defence no end of trouble, but it also had the effect of upsetting all the best efforts of the home forwards at combination and bad shooting.  Watson was the first who had a chance, but unlike his usual style the kick was weak and the direction bad.  Gibson then stopped an attempt by the Darwen left, and Cassidy put in a neat centre, but the fair-haired Marsden, who played as hard game throughout, was all there and sending to the right one of the “tots” made off, but found Murray (as they afterwards did many times during the game) a kind of Mull of Cantyre to get round, and before this operation could be satisfactorily performed Dobson put an end to the necessity for it by sending the ball to the right, from which point Goudie and Macpherson in turn headed in, but the breeze lifting the ball, it passed beautifully over the bar.  Several corners followed, and “Mac” again just cleared the bar.  After a momentary visit to the home end, Gouldie, Watson, and “Mac” came again with a rush, but there “was nae luck at a’, “as” Mac’s” shot met the same fate as its predecessors.  Following a corner kick, a prodigious bully ensued in front of the Darwen goal, and the escapes from a downfall were simply marvelous. 
A CLEVER DRIBBLE
Rostron at last got a chance, and dashing off with all his old impetuosity, was soon in the home end, where Joliffe just turned the shot away at the cost of a corner.  The ball was worked behind.  From the kick off Everton again commenced to press, and the unlucky Macpherson sent in two wretched shots, and evidently feeling annoyed, changed places with the little Motherwell flyer.  Gouldie was not long before he had a try, and nothing but the excellent goalkeeping of Holden could have avoided a score.  Macpherson at length did himself justice by a beauty from the wing; this also was well taken care of.  Close on half time I was sorry to notice Cawson going off lame. 
COBBLER ON THE JOB
Gouldie re-started, Gibson kicked to Farmer, he in turn let in Watson, but just as this player was getting round for a shot his hands got in the way, and a free kick gave a temporary relief to the visitors, Everton, who played a much prettier game against the wind, were soon in front of the Darwen uprights, and Holden had to hit out shots from the left and right, and then, as the ball reached midfield, Thompson’s professional eye caught sight of studs on a player’s boots.  The usual examination followed, and one man was found to be wearing these preventives to slipping.  It appears that the Association have considered it wise to order the wearing of transverse bar in lieu of studs, but as the order has not yet been issued there was no infringement, and the contest proceeded.  
THE GAME WAXES WARM
The Darwen left made a good attempt and then Cassidy and farmer put in a fine run, Holden just saving his charge.  A few corners followed, and for once in a way J. Marsden missed his kick, which nearly proved fatal.  Holden met the leather, however, and hit out and Darwen worked up, gaining a corner, which Dobson cleared.  Thornber replied, and Higgins saved splendidly.  Shorrock next made it hot for Joliffe but Master Charles hit out well.  Owens kept the sport going and sent in a long one, which made the Evertonians feel queer, but again Joliffe hit out.  Farmer then received the ball from Higgins, and after a short spurt sent in a terrific shot.  Holden caught the ball, but it proved too hot to hold, as it twisted out of his hands, and before he could recover himself it rolled under the bar amidst tremendous cheering.  Both sides now spurted up, corners followed on both sides, but no openings could be found, and when Mr. Brownlow blew his whistle Everton were left victors by one to nil. 

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 17 September 1887

  • Mr. Nisbet does not go by newspaper reports for alteration of rules.  He wants the officials intimation before he discards studs.  Quite right out. 
  • Everton and the Wanderers will be about the warmest cup tie in this division.

Everton v Church
September 19, 1887. The Liverpool Mercury
Played at Church, on Saturday, before about 1000 spectators. After the start, Everton experienced hard lines, Farmer, on the inside left, sending in magnificently right across the goal, but Thorpe saved splendidly. A corner now fell to the visitors, which Gibson headed through, six minutes after the start. Seven minutes later, Watson, from the outside right, during some severe pressing, scored a second time for the visitors. Everton continued to press, but the home team offered a good defence. The home team got away, but Everton obtained possession of the ball, and again pressed their opponents, and hands to Church in front of goal followed, but Everton cleared. The visitors' right wing then ran smartly down the field, but Robinson relieved the pressure. Everton then failed, Cassidy kicking outside. The home team got well up, and Smith centred, but Joliffe fisted, and danger was averted. Resuming, Church became aggressive, and Bolton sent in a well directed shot, which Joliffe made little effort to stop, evidently thinking it would pass outside. However, it just passed through the posts. The visitors now pressed, and had hard lines; but Church broke loose, and kept up a severe pressure. The Everton right wing cleverly evaded their opponents, but shot over the bar. Taylor, with a magnificent shot, shortly afterwards equalised for Church, amidst the applause of the spectators, the result being a draw2 goals each.

Everton v Church
September 19 th 1887. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton paid a visit to Church on Saturday, and a well-contested game resulted in a draw of two goals each; Dobson having won the toss, Everton started, the ball, with the ground in their favour and pressed their opponents. Before half-time the visitors scored twice. Gibson and Watson doing the necessary, the former heading the ball through from a corner. After changing ends the home side were fortunate and twice beat Joliffe, and though Everton strove hard to take the lead again and had much the best of the play, the home defence was good, “time” leaving the game a drawn-two goals each. Teams; - Everton; - Joliffe, goal; Dick and Dobson (captain), backs; Higgins, Gibson, and Murray, half-backs; Cassidy, Farmer, Goudie, McPherson, and Walton, forwards. Church; - Thorpe, goal; Robinson and J. Woods, backs; Singleton, Taylor, and Tattersall, half-backs; Walker, Smith, Bolton, Sowerbutts, and Holden, forwards.
Bromborough Pool v Everton Reserves
The Everton team having journeyed to Church, the reserves team met Bromborough Pool at the Everton enclosure on Saturday, about 2,000 spectators lining the rails. Roy kicked off at ten minutes past four, R. Jones defending the Stanley Park goal. The home team were not long before they put the Cheshire representatives on the defensive and Jones sent in a shot which struck the post. Bromborough caused the Evertonians to retire but only temporarily and the globe having been well placed, Roy made a poor attempt to score. Each side conceded a corner, the result in each instance proving fruitless. The yellow and black stripes now began to press their opponents, and a corner having been conceded them, the visitors had hard lines in endeavouring to lower the blue and white colours, the ball striking the crossbar. At length E. Jones cleared, and the Everton forwards rushed the ball down to the Oakfield-road, Gilder and Mcleod being most prominent in this movement. From this point up to half time nothing noticeable occurred, neither side having scored. On crossing over, Jones restarted for Bromborough, and the home team at once made an onslaught on the Cheshire citadel, securing two corners in quick succession, both of which proved nil. For some minutes play became very slow, each side having what appeared to be easy opportunities of scoring, but the shots at goal were very tame. The Poolities now charged down on the Oakfield-road goal, and caused the Everton custodian some little anxiety, but the latter'' conduct between the uprights brought out quite an ovation from the spectators. At length the home right wing got away, and passing to the left, Douglas, who had previously been shooting somewhat faulty, got one past Williams, those putting the Evertonians in high glee. After the ball had been kicked off from the centre, play became of an even character, the glode travelling backwards and forwards in rapid succession. At last Brombourough swooped down on the home goal, and for a time the Everton goalkeeper defied every attempt to lower his club's colours, but about ten minutes before the finish White, on the visitors right wing eventually equalised matters by sending one past Jones. The play from this point to the whistle blowing does not call for remark, the game ending in a draw of one goal each. For the home team E. Jones, Houldstone, and Dyke, showed best form; while Worthington, White, Adams, and Keen were most conspicuous for the visitors. Teams; - Brombourugh; - R. Williams, goal; W. Adams and C. Keen, backs; Thomas, Lally, and Elburn, half-backs; Worthington, White, Jones, J. Lunt, and Brierley, forwards. Everton Reserves; - E. Jones, goal; Johnson and Huuldworth, backs; Jones, Whittle, and Dyke, half-backs; Costley, Douglas, Roy, Glider, and McLeod, forwards.

EVERTON V CHURCH
Athletic News - Tuesday 20 September 1887
Church had the strong Everton team down on Saturday, and made a draw of two goals each.  Everton were the first to score after five minutes play, and not long afterwards Watson obtained a second.  The first goal scored by Church was a rather simple one, but Taylor equalised with a grand shot, amidst great cheering.  On the whole Everton had the best of the game, and Robinson and the other defenders may be thanked for starving off defeat. 

WITH THE LIVERPOOL CLUBS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 September 1887
EVERTON ABROAD
 The first out match of the Everton season took place last Saturday, when they made the journey into East Lancashire to tackle the Church.  The form of this latter club has been anther peculiar when opposed to Liverpool clubs. Last season Bootle beat them by three to one at Hawthorne-road, but were beaten in the return at Church by two to one. Everton were beaten in their first fixture at the same place by five three, but in the return at Anfield road completely ran away from the same team and won by four to nil. On Saturday last the match at Church between the same clubs resulted a drawn game of two goals each, so that, judged from past events, the return on April 14th should mean a big beating for Church. From various sources I learn that the countrymen were somewhat fortunate in warding off defeat, as Everton had the best of the play. The Church men, however, pulled themselves together towards the finish, and this point got the upper hand.

EVERTON AT CHURCH
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 September 1887
A CHANGED TEAM
Church opened their “at home” season on Saturday, by playing what may be called the premier club of Liverpool. The day being fine, a goodly number of spectators lined the ropes, but their patience was sorely tried through the delay in starling. The match was advertised to start at 3-30, but it was fully half-an-hour after that time before the ball was kicked off. When the teams faced each other it was seen that Everton was not the Everton of last season.  As far as I can recollect, Farmer was the only player amongst the forwards who played against Church last season, the others—Cassidy, Goudie, Watson, and McPherson —being fresh men. Amongst the backs, also, I noticed new man in Murray. Church tried a new man (Singleton), a second eleven player; and C. Bolton, from West Manchester, assisted them for the day.
EVERTON TO THE FRONT
Playing downhill Everton were the first to show up, but the danger was relieved, and Sourbutts getting hold made good dribble up the left, but it came to nothing. From the goal kick Everton took the ball down, and being pressed Church gave them a corner. This was well placed, and Gibson bad no difficulty in heading the ball past Thorpe. Everton for some time after this had much the best of the game; the two wings were passing like clock-work, and causing the home backs any amount of trouble, with the result that shortly after they again scored, the ball being sent through from the left. Good defence on the part of Robinson and Woods prevented further damage, although it must be allowed that occasionally they had “hard lines.” Church likewise experienced the same, Walker on several occasions missing what would have been certain goals.
CHURCH PULL UP
The second half opened much better for the home team, for after a brief spell OF play in the Everton quarters, Sourbutts put the ball through for his side. Some said this was a mistake of Joliffe's, but if any mistake was made I think that Dick and Dobson are as much to blame as he. Church still continued to have more than their share the play, and kept the Everton backs fully employed. As result of some good play on the Church right, J. Taylor with a clinking shot made the game even. Kay after this very much deteriorated. The game ended in a tie of two goals each. Everton during the second half had one or two chances which they might have taken advantage of; indeed, one occasion it seemed impossible for Goudie miss scoring, as a touch would have sent the ball past Thorpe, but he dallied too long with it.
REFLECTIONS
The first portion of the game was pleasantly enough contested, but this cannot be said of the second.  Perhaps the Everton men after scoring twice thought they had an easy thing on, and felt rather “riled” when Church pulled up level. Anyhow there was a marked alteration their style of play during the second half, and it was not a style worthy imitation by imitation by any means. Gibson still keeps up his form. He was the principal Impediment to Church scoring last year, and he was the same on Saturday. I watched time after time, when Thorpe kicked off from goal, and invariably the head that sent it back was Gibson's. The Everton wings during the first half played a beautiful game, and they were ably assisted by the Hartford man in centre. Church did not play their usual game by a long This may be due to the fact Gregson and Woods being absent, and also because of the men being shifted about so and not being always played in the same place. Everton, will, however, find Church much more in evidence when they visit the Everton enclosure.

NUGGETS
Cricket and Football Field - Saturday 24 September 1887

  • Liverpool St. John’s think they have been hardly used by Everton.
  • Everton do not despair, by any means, of entertaining the second round of the English Cup ties.  They have all their team eligible. 
  • Everton went to church on Saturday-could not wait for Sunday, you know- but some of them got a bit mixed as to the correct deity to workship, and have a very hazy idea of how they came home.

LIVERPOOL CUP TIE –FIRST ROUND
September 26, 1887. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton v. Liverpool St. John's.
On Saturday, the first cup tie in the local competition was brought off at Anfield-road, Everton meeting St. John's, a young club, whose proper place should be in the junior competition. The Everton team was a very mixed lot, none of the new players being yet qualified, whilst Farmer and Fleming also stood out. The attendance was not, naturally, anything like so large as is usually the case, and the game was an utterly one-sided affair, the only part of the St. John's team which showed average ability being the full backs. St. John's started with a glaring sun in their eyes, and before the game was a minute old, Dick scored for Everton, amidst loud laugher. Re-starting, another visit was made to St. John's quarters, and Everton took a corner, following which the visitors' crossbar was struck twice in rapid succession. After a slight interruption, a St. John's player being hurt, Higgins missed an easy chance and then a diversion was created at the other end, where Joliffe kicked away, and the assault on St. John's goal was again renewed. The backs defended stoutly, but, after Higgins had again missed, Gibson shot the second goal. This was followed by a third from the foot of Richards, and after more pressure Dick added a fourth, and Gibson the fifth. Another flying visit was made so the other end, but that was all, the ball passing harmlessly over the goal line. Dobson was very conspicuous at half-back, and made many chances for his forwards, which were not turned to account, Costley got a sixth goal before half-time, when Everton were leading by 6 goals to nil. On resuming, St. John's played much better, but the Everton attack went on as before. Richards and Dick hit the upright, and it was only after considerable pressure that the visitors defence succumbed for the seventh time, Higgins shooting a good goal. The renewal of the game was followed by a momentary outburst of the Saints and Joliffe almost gave them a goal, but, back again, Higgins shot another –the eight for Everton. Again the visitors got into Everton quarters, only to be again driven back, and severe scrimmage in their goal brought out good play by the backs and goalkeeper. After St. John's had obtained a corner kick, Everton added four goals in quick succession, Higgins (2), Richards and Costley putting the final touch to the ball. Everton thus won a runaway game by 12 goals to nil. Teams; St. John's –Allsopp, goal; Shaw and Brumpton, backs; Kersley, Ackers, and Pierpoint, half-backs; Roberts, Butterworth, Baker, J. Brumpton, and Strangeways, forwards. Everton -Joliffe, goal; Marriott and Houldsworth, backs; Jones, Gibson and Dobson, half-backs; Costley, Higgins, Dick, Briscoe, and Richards, forwards.

Association and District Challenge Cup
Everton v St John's
September 26 th 1887. The Liverpool Daily Post.
The above clubs met at the Everton ground on Saturday in the first round of the Cup in the presence of about 2,000 spectators, while considering the attraction at Bootle (played Accrington 6,000 spectators) was an amount of patronage much greater than could reasonably be expected, as St. John's is a comparatively unknown cup, which has it ground is one of our parks. This fact may to a certain extent account for the very poor show which they made, as the parks are not open to footballers until the 1 st October. Consequently practice is almost out of the question, and this fact alone demonstrates the absurdity of the association insisting on the first round being completed by the 8 th October, St. John's posses one or two good man –notably J. Shaw, Ackers, and Roberts. In spite of the long score against Allsopp in goal, he performed very creditably indeed considering the amount of work, which he was called on to do. The home team were very much mixed up, Dick, the full back, playing centre forward and Higgins partnered Costley on the left, but the defence of their opponents was so weak that the Everton forwards did as they liked, the ball seldom passing beyond the half-backs. In this division Jones played a very good game indeed. Baker kicked off, Dobson passed to the left, Jones centred and in less than a minute Dick headed the first goal. Evan at this early stage of the game it became manifest that it would only be a question of the number of goals scored. Costley ran up on the left, screwed across to the right, and Dick again did the needful. About ten minutes later Richards, with a beauty, registered the third. Allsopp and Shaw now came in for applause for the manner in which they cleared shots from Dick, Costley, and Higgins, but half-time saw three more goals, put on –two by Dick and one by Costley. During the first half one of the St John's men retired hurt, but at half-time another man was allowed to take his place. Dick restarted after crossing over, and although for a few minutes the Saints spurted up and for the first time during the game; Jolliffe had necessity to use his hands, yet there was nothing in the play to the call for description, the end being that six more goals were added, four by Higgins, and Richards and Costley one each, leaving the cupholders winners by twelve to nil. Teams; - Everton; - Jolliffe, goal; Marriott and Houldstone, backs; Gibson, Dobson (captain), and W. Jones, half-backs; Briscoe Higgins, Dick, Richards, and Costley, forwards. St. John's; - Allsop, goal; C. Brumpton and J. Shaw, backs; Pierpont, Ackers, and Kersey, half-backs; Striagaway, J. Brumpton, Baker, Butterworth, and Roberts, forwards.

EVERTON'S FIRST MOVE FOR THE LIVERPOOL CUP
Athletic News - Tuesday 27 September 1887
The Liverpool Senior Cup Competition opened on Saturday, when Everton, who were bracketed in the first round with Liverpool St. John’s annihilated the visitors, at Anfteld, to the extent of 12 goals to nil. The Cup holders’ team was composed mainly of reserve men, two notable eligible (Fleming and Farmer) being absentees and the disposition the players was generally experimental kind. Dobson figured at half-back, whilst his fellow-back, Dick, made a sprightly centre forward, and popped five goals. The game, however, calls for little comment, especially when it is mentioned that Joliffe twice handled the ball; but it is only fair to say that the St. John’s now and again showed some good bits of play. The backs (J. Shaw in particular), A. Allsopp goal, and likewise Roberts as forward, showing great promise. The defeated, in addition to losing the services a player during portion of the game, have been handicapped owing the parks being still closed for football practice. The goals were obtained by Dick (5), Higgins (3), Costley (2), and Richards (2).