May 1891

EVERTON 9 BLACKBURN ROVERS 0
May 1 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
This game the last of the season with the exception of the two charity matches, was played on the Anfield ground last evening, in the presence of quite 4,000 spectators. Both teams lacked their strength. The Rovers trying Naylor from Higher Walton, and Brown from Cumbland in place of Brandon and Forbes at back. Everton were without Greay, Holt, Brady and Hannah. Teams as follows: - Everton: - Jardine, goal, McLean, and Doyle backs, Campbell, Jones (r), and Kirkwood halfbacks, Latta, Gordon, Elliott, Chadwick, and Milward, forwards. Blackburn Rovers: - Gow, goal, Naylor and Brown, backs, Barton, Dewar, and Forrest, halfbacks Haydock, Walsh, Dewar (g), Hall, and Townley forwards. Losing the toss, Elliott started for Everton, Milward and Chadwick, being at once away on the left when Naylor returned by lobbing over to the visitors right wing, and Walsh getting down, forced Doyle to concede a corner, when was correctly placed by Townley, but eventually put outside by Dewar. The Rovers slightly held the upperhand and than Latta put in a clever run along on the turn, an passing across to Chadwick, the latter tried a shot, which went wide. Hands again allowed the cupholders to get near Jardine, but without effect. From the goal kick Latta got under way, and sent the ball whistling over the bar. A free kick to the visitors was sent through the goal without being tested. Coming again to the attack, the Evertonians rushed prettly through all opponents and, Gordon testing Gow, Elliott met the clearance and cleverly banged past the custodian, this scoring the first point. After this Rovers had made a temporary visit to the other end the Anfielders again went to the fore, and Gordon giving to Latta the Dumbarton man ran the leather through, Gow having no chance, whatever to stop it. This success followed by a couple of near things by Gordon and Latta, and then Doyle was called upon to clear a beauty from Haydock. Just on the interval when the score stood two goals to nil in favour of Everton.
Resuming, the homesters were the first to show up, when the game had to be suspended for a short time, owing to Latta and Brown colliding. Restarting, the Evertonians surrounded Gow, and Latta from a tip from Chadwick, scored the third point, and a minute later Elliott scored a fourth. The Rovers were faily outclassed, as they never passed the midline. Free combination, among the Everton forwards, resulted in another downfall from Gow, Latta again doing the tricky. A free kick against Everton was grandly headed out of goal by McLean, and then Gordon from a long range tried a high attempt which, Gow cleared with great ease. Continuing to hold matters much in their own hands, the League Champions went at it, with great vigour and beating the visitors defence, R.Jones scored with a sixth point, and then Latta added another-his fourth of the match. Bent on wiping out Saturday's defeat in a splendid fashion the Anfiedlers were not long in notching the eight goal, this time from the foot of Chadwick. Elliott finishing up this lively game by scoring the ninth, and Everton after a very one sided game, retired victors by 9 goals to nil. Mr. Molyneux informs us that a musical gathering will take place in the College Hall, Shaw Street on Friday evening, May 8. Under the auspices of the Everton Club, when the medals for the League and Liverpool district competitions will be presented to the players.

BLUE REVIEW
May 2 nd 1891. The Liverpool Courier.
And so the irresistible Evertonians have by virtue of a decisive victory over Bootle of four goals to one, taken an additional twelvemonth's issue of the Liverpool Association Cup, which, with the Athletic Shield and noble League Cup, will adorn the sideboard of the Sandon Hotel. No one expected such a signal victory and least of all the leaders of the club; but although the Evertonians were not in full strength they proved themselves champions by their excellent play. The Everton season will close with a charity match today, when Paisley Abarcorn will be the visiting team; and at the close of the League meeting on Monday next the League Cup will be presented.

FOOTBALL CHIPS.
The Liverpool Football Echo.
Football must be fairly “done to death” down Blackburn way when 1,000 spectators cannot be gathered to witness the champions of the League and English Cup holders. Ewood Park presented appearance last Saturday, and it is quite evident that the close season has arrived none to soon. The terms was half net gate, and Mr. Molyneux received the magnificent sum of his half as the Everton share of the spoils. The game was contested in a very half-hearted manner, and was almost entirely, devoid of exciting incidents. It will be gratifying to Liverpoolians to know that the Everton Committee have received a letter from the Queen's Park officials, in which they speak in high terms of admiration of the reception accorded the Park players, on the occasion of the recent match with Everton. They say the game was the most pleasant they have ever participated in, that the crowd was the largest and most impartial they have met for years, and offer fixtures for next season, which we have no doubt well be accepted. Such a praise as this, coming from a great organisation like Queen's Park is a distinct feather in the caps of the Evertonians, but no one who witnessed the match will deny them any congratulation that may belavished upon them. Everton Reserves came down to St. Helens to oppose a district team on Monday night. About 1,500 persons made their way to the Park-road ground, and considering that the Association is not so much pationised in this district as the Rugby, this was a large crowd. The quick passing movements of the Evertonians were very much applauded. The district team worked very hard, Brown and Lawrenson in the forwards, and Stoddart and Scanlon back, being the most prominent. Brown also kept goal very well. The score at the close stood Everton 1, District nil.
UNFOLDING THE CURTAIN.
Probably the most successful club of the season has been Everton. Out of 65 matches (66 matches) played they have only been defeated on ten occasions (11 occasions) and when it is remembered the majority of their opponents have been drawn from the best organisations in the United Kingdom, the Liverpool club and its players deserved the highest praise for their work. The season's results read as : Played 65 won 49 lost 10, drawn 6, for 190, against 72
(Blue Correspondence Results is: - Played 66 won 49, Lost 11, Drawn 6, For 193, Against 74)
And their spoils represent two challenge cups: - the League and the Liverpool District. In the competition for the Lancashire Trophy Everton met with a severe defeat (0-6) from Bolton Wanderers (who ultimately proved the winners), which was altogether a reversal of League form, as in these particular contest Everton proved themselves superior in both engagements, as they also did in home and home club fixtures. Their defeat, therefore, on this special occasion was quite unaccountable, and caused much surprise. In the Association Cup Competition Everton had the misfortune to be drawn against Sunderland, and whenever eminent football combinations have had to journey to the “far north” they have generally been presented with cards bearing the impress of “death's heads” and “cross bones” it is no wonder the Liverpool men were defeated. Disaster, too, overtook them at a period when their best men were rendered useless by injury; but they have finished the season as they commenced –amidst a flourish of triumphs. The executive of the club have also endeavoured to “do to others as they would be done themselves” –that is, they have extended the hand of charity pretty freely. May Everton succeed in the future as they have in the part. Their triumphs under M. Molyneux's reign have been great, and with him as secretary, their successes will be greater.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT FOOTBALL
Athletic News - Monday 04 May 1891
PAISLEY AT EVERTON
This Scottish League club played Everton in aid of the Saturday Hospital Fund. The game resulted in win for Everton by six goals to one. I am inclined to quarrel with the said result, as I think it is not correct one. Possibly Everton may be five goals better than the Scotchmen, but when you come to weigh the play up, they were not so in this match. On the whole, I should say Jardine had quite as much to do his vis-a-vis and the only difference is that he did it better. A great difference I grant. But there were more to blame than the goalkeeper. The backs were sturdy enough, especially the left, but not agile enough for the home forwards, and that accounts for the six goals. The halves, too, were not any great shakes, but when it came to close quarters the Everton forwards had all the best it. The Abercon forwards were good, all of them, but especially the outside right and inside left. The former is not over big, but tackled Doyle in a refreshing manner, and this, coupled with some speedy runs, made him quite a favourite; and if he leaves Liverpool without some tempting offers, then I don't think much of our judges of the game. We have not quite done with football yet. Next Saturday the League team tackle Swifts, and as the proceeds go to the Stanley Hospital I hope we shall have a good “gate.”
This will be a busy week, as the League meeting is to-night, followed by a grand concert and public presentation of the League cup and medals to the Everton players. College Hall will hold 3,000, and I fancy it will be full. Splendid talent has been engaged -fully up to League standard.
If there is one gentleman more than another, in connection with the Everton Club who is entitled to be at the League banquet that gentleman is Mr. Nisbet, the late secretary.  He was one of the founders of the League, and I fancy would like to review and point out to some of the members their deviation from the original course. And no one can do it better.
There is quite a mania amongst our players for the* sea. If he has act missed his ship Kilner is now on the briny, and Dunning and Hastings are likely to follow.  Milward, too, is talking that way. I don't think it will do them any harm.
I had nearly forgotten the final for the Liverpool Cup.  Of course, Everton won, but Bootle gave them a good game.  The feature of the match was a splendid run down the centre by Hammond, and if this youth will only keep his head right on he should do well for Sheffield United.  His effort took immense with the company present, and you can say what you like about your passing, but there is nothing raises the enthusiasm of the spectators like a good dribble-if it comes off. 

EVERTON 6 PAISLEY ABERCORN 1
May 4 1891. The Liverpool mercury
This match, which was for the benefit of the Hospital Fund, was played at Anfield on Saturday, and the executions of the Everton executive met with a fair support from the public. No doubt but the trade's processions and other attractions there would have been a much large attendance. Nevertheless the turn out was satisfactory, as besides the private disposal of a large number of tickets about 5,000 lined the ropes. The honorary treasurer of the Hospital Fund (Mr. Langton) witnessed the contest, which throughout was the most pleasing and agreeable description, and it is to be hoped that the Paisley club will be asked to visit Anfield next season. Winning the toss, the Everton men gained a decided advantage in the first portion of the game by having the strong breeze at their backs. After a short passing movement by the Paisley forwards had been nullified by Campbell, the Anfielders were not long in showing their prowess by a lively attack on the Abercorn goal, and Brady, with a finely directed shot was the first to cause Fleming uneasiness. The Scotchmen cleared capitally, and then his side made tracks towards the other end in very pretty style, where some spirited play took place, Jardine doing the needful twice, and Mclean conceding a corner. Thus being got rid of by Doyle, Milward and Chadwick worked their way along on the line, and the former, with a fine centre enabled Latta to head the first goal for Everton 15 minutes from the start. After the visitors had been sent back by Doyle, Brady soon put through the second point, and coming again Elliott added the third. A bot of hard luck now fell to the Paisley lads, as it was only a few inches that McLaren missed scoring with a fast grounder. The game proceeds fast and clever on both sides, and was thoroughly predicated by the assembly. A sterling movement by the Everton van in which, Chadwick was the most conspicuous resulted in another downfall for fleming, and then Wallace and Nicol became troublesome to Doyle. The little right winger managed to elude his burly opponents, and dribbling down towards Jardine, sent in a ‘'flier'' which gave the home custodian no chance whatever. This brought about the interval, with the score Everton 4 goals, Paisley 1. On resuming the Vistors by the aid of the wind endeavored to force pass the home backs, but without effect and then Elliott had a very near thing with a header as has also Bonnar at the other end. Both goalkeepers were in turn visited. Jardine saving twice in a capital fashion, while the brothers Cuthbertson along with the halfbacks had all their work cut out to stem of the warm attacks of the home forwards. A corner failing to Milward, Chadwick placed the ball right down in goal, and Latta headed the fifth pint for his side. Splendid work by Latta and Brady enabled Chadwick to score the sixth and this was followed by an irregular goal from the foot of Latta. From now to the finish there was little to choose between the play of either team and no further goals were scored. Everton thus retiring with a victory of 6 goals to 1.

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB
Liverpool Mercury - Friday 08 May 1891
At a concert to be given this evening under the auspices of the Everton Club, in the College Hall, Shaw-Street, the medals won in the League and Liverpool and District Cup competitions will be presented.  Tomorrow Everton play Moss End Swifts in aid of Stanley Hospital –a deserving object much in need of funds.  The annual meeting will be held on Friday next at the College Hall.  From the statement of accounts just to hand it appears that the receipts amount to no less than £8398 14s 8d, expenditure £6606 6s 7d; giving the handsome balance of £1792 8s 1d. 

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB
May 9 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
The presentation of the League and Liverpool Cups and medals to the Everton team was made the occasion of a great demonstration last night at the College Hall Shaw Street when Mr.John Houlding presided, and was supported by Mr. Molyneux Mr. Jackson, Mr. A.Clayton, Mr. H. Heard, Mr. R. Wilson, Mr. Lythgoe, and Mr. Hull. The musical portion of the programme opened the proceedings, Mr. Eaton Batty commencing with ‘'comrades to Arms'' which was song with all the flush which charcterics this vocalist's efforts. Several of the Everton players now began to arrive, and as each one took his seat he was met with a round of applause. The next feature was the rendition of ‘'The Maid of the Mill'' by Mr. T. Barlow whose fine tenor voice was heard to great advantage in this somewhat backasyed. Madame Emile Young narrowly escaped an encore in Wallace's delightful son.'' Alas those chimes''and Miss Fanny Bonffleur was heard at her best in ‘'The Dashing White Sargeant.'' Mr. Leslie Harris's humorous sketches a la Gressmith received such recognition that he was compelled to come forth a second time to satisfy the audience. The first halt of the musical programme being now completed Mr. R.Wilson came forward and said his duty was a simple and a pleasant one-it was to present the League Cup, which had been handed over to him on Monday by Mr. McGregor, the presentative of the League, to Mr. Houlding at their president. Everton had done it work nobly and well and he sincerely hoped they would never let it fall into other hands.
Mr Houlding than asked the various members of the League team who were present to come up the platform and as each mounted the stage the cheering was terrific. Mr. Hull, president of the Liverpool and District Football Association next presented the Liverpool Cup. He was proud that Liverpool had shown up so well in the great contest of the year and hoped that twelve months hence the English Cup would stand next to it. Mr. Houlding said he received the trophy with grat pleasure. Since the Everton Club had been started they had scored many brilliant victors, the crowing point was reached when they brought home the League Championship. It was only by continued perseverance and pluck that this cup could be won. The committee had surprised him by the knowledge they displayed not only as regards the game but also as regards players. If a good player were to be had they would capture him, and when they had them it was their duty to keep them. In conclusion he said he would always do the best he could to assist the club. As the committee was of opinion that the various players should receive a memento of the occasion, he had now the pleasant duty of presenting each one with a gold medal. Unfortunately several of their best players could not, from various causes attend. Holt had not yet quite recovered from the accident he met with. Hannah had gone back to his business in Scotland; Kirkwood was ill from inflenza; Parry who was injured in the international match, was still in Wales, and Milward had gone to sea, but all well, would be back with them again on the 1 ST of September. Angus was the first to come to the front for his medal, and Doyle and Campbell followed him in quick succession. Latta, who came next, met with a tremendous reception and so did Chadwick and Geary. In connection with the Liverpool Cup, Mr. Hull presented medals to the following players: - Angus Mclead, Doyle, Campbell, Lochhead, Latta, Hammond, Chadwick, and R.Jones. The chairman then said it was intended on a future occasion to present medals to those members, who had played in the qualifying matches. After a few word's from Mr. Hull, the presentation proceedings closed, and the second portion of the concert was proceeded with. The following statement of receipts and expenditure for the past season has been issued by this club: - (Liverpool Football Echo) Receipts, Balance in hand £478 7s 0d, Gate receipts £6263 6s 11d, Members £241 14s 6d, season tickets £83 2s 6d, Hoarding contractors £10, 0s, 0d, Insurance claims, £55, 0s 0d, Away matches, £846 2s 11d, Programmes £91 10s 2d, Bank interest £6 8s 5d, Proportion of wages to be debited to season 1892 £318 0s 0d, total £8,398 14s 8d,
Expenditure Players wages £2,548 11s 4d, Advanced to players £318 0s 0d, causties £142 6s 4d, Secretary salary £144 0s, 0d, groundsmen £47 8s 0d, Trainer £74, 5s, 0d, Training expenses £43, 11s, 1d, general expenses £17 9s, 7d, Advertising £59, 17s, 4d, Flagstaff Telegraphs £32, 15s, 1d, Printing and Stationary £112, 3s, 0d, General accounts, £344, 6s 5d, Visiting clubs £793 15s, 6d, Referee £50, 3s 6, League Association, £11, 16s, 2d, Travelling expenses £745, 11s, 11d, Medical expenses £47, 13s 7d, Gate expenses £261 16s, 3d, rent £250, 0s 0d, Rates and taxes £47, 6s 4d, Clothing and Materials £138, 0s 0d, Insurance's £38, 16s, 6d, Entertaining visitors, £32, 13s, 0d, Balance £1792, 8s, 1d, Interest account £1, 19s, 5d. Total £8,393, 14s, 5d.
The annual meeting of the members will be held at Colleage Hall, Shaw-street, on Friday evening, the 15 th inst.

EVERTON BALANCE-SHEET
Athletic News - Monday 11 May 1891
Everton Club has issued its balance sheet, and very interesting document it is. When club has £8,080 14s. 8d. to deal with in the course of a season, it means business on a large scale, and the detailed figures will be read with interest. Here they are: — Receipts June 1, 1890: To balance in hand, £478 7s. April 30. 1891: To receipts, £5.258 8s 11d; members’ subscriptions, £241 14s. 6d;  season tickets  subscription, £33 2s 6d.; amount received from hoarding contractor, £10; accident insurance claims, £55; amount received for matches  played away, £846 2s. 11dl  programmes, £91 10a. 2d.; bank interest, £6 8s. 8d; proportion of wages to be debited 1892, £318.  Total, £3.398 14s 8d. 
Expenditure.-April 30, 1891: By players’ wages. £2,848  11s. 4d. amount advanced players (season 1892) £318; gratuities, £142 6s 3d. secretary’s salary. £144; groundman's wages, £47 8s; trainer’s wages, £74 5s; trainer's expenses, £43 11s. Id.; general expenses £17 9s 7d. advertising, £59 17s. 4d. postage and telegrams, £32 15s. Id.; printing and stationery. £112 3s. ground account, £314 6s. 5d.; amount paid visiting clubs, £793 15s. 6d.: subscriptions (League and Association), £11 15s. 8d.; referees, £50 3s. 6d. travelling expenses, £746 11s. 11d.: medical expenses, £47 13s. 7d. gate expenses (police, commissionaires, and tellers), £261 18s 3d. rent, £250; rates and taxes, £47 6s. 4d.: clothing and material, £138 0s. 8d;  insurance of players. £39 15s. 6d... entertaining visiting clubs, &c., £32 13s. 2d.; Interest account, £1 19s. 3d.; balance, £1,792 8s. Id.; total. £8,398 14s. 8d.
The Lancashire League will hold its annual meeting at the Scarisbrick Hotel, Southport, on Saturday next. Several important alterations are proposed in the rules, including the extension of the League to 14 clubs. West Manchester and Oswaldtwistle (with the defunct Union Star) are the clubs to retire, but are applying for re-election; and Gorton Villa, Hindley, South Shore, Witton, Halliwell, Irwell Springs, Everton, Bolton Wanderers Reserve, Burnley Reserve, and Brierfield are also anxious to join.
Before the election of clubs was proceeded with it was deemed desirable to consider this rule, and also the one relating to the increase of clubs to fourteen, the latter being the idea of Mr. Barclay, of Everton at the Sheffield meeting.  The only opponent to it was Mr. Marr, of Sunderland; but even he only objected to it on the ground that dates could not be found.  This argument was easily refuted and the alteration was carried. 
The dinner given by the Everton club was a very enjoyable affair, and the occasion was taken advantage of to hand over the League cup.  This rather formal ceremony was performed by Mr. McGregor, and there is no doubt the Everton club fully deserve the honour of holding the trophy, for they have played consistently well throughout the season. 
In the following two lines we have food for reflection during the summer months;-
   Everton bank balance £1,7933
   Accrington deficit on the season £250
If ever money commanded success it was surely in the case of Everton during the season.  For their expenditure of upwards of £6,600 they can show the League and Liverpool cups.  A team that carries off in wages £2,848 ought to be a bit above the common article, to say nothing of the immense amount of time and labour thrown into the work by the men at the helm. 

THE FINAL MATCH EVERTON.
Athletic News - Monday 11 May 1891
The Moss End Swifts assisted in hauling down the curtain of football for the season of 1890-1. The match was a charitable one, the proceeds being for the benefit of that splendid institution. Stanley Hospital. There was a poor attendance of spectators -probably not more than a couple of thousand —and they witnessed only a moderate game. Although Everton were indifferently represented, they had considerably the best matters. On their play, the colliers from West Calder are only of third-class calibre, and although occasionally individuals shone, their play was more of a plucky and nature than a scientific display. Such is football, and at times pluck and determination, with a little luck thrown in, gets the better of science. But in this case the win was on the popular side, though only to the extent of two goals to none. As I have said, the Moss End men depended principally on the kick and rush business, and the only man who had any method at all about his play was the centre half. And so ended the last lesson. I shall leave such minor items as the formal presentation of the League Cup Mr. McGregor to Mr. Wilson to another pen, but the B.P. had the opportunity of witnessing the public presentation of the cup, at the College Hall, on Friday evening. The public, like myself, did not evince any great desire for the ceremony, but, nevertheless, everything passed off well. In the first place we had a capital lot of artistes, and in the next we had our popular president, Mr. Houlding, looking hale and hearty from his trip; and next we had Mr. Wilson presenting Mr. Houlding with the handsome League cup. The players then came on view for the medals, the most popular being Latta, Chadwick, and Geary. The final scene will be on Friday night, in the same hall, when the annual meeting will held.
In connection with this there does not seem to be the same excitement as was the case last year. Everything is so satisfactory that there is no occasion for a preliminary meeting, and the only opposition, if I may use the term, will over the treasurership. Mr. Jackson intends standing by the club, as he has done from its very commencement, and seeing the grand testimonial which the auditors gave him last year, there should be no difficulty in voting him to the position again. Under the able guidance of Mr. Wilson, the balance in favour of the club has come out wonderfully. It must be borne in mind we have a month’s less revenue this year, and to have clear balance of £1,474 8s. Id. is something to be proud of. This is financially, but the working of the team is every bit as satisfactory. The Echo gave statistics of the season’s work last week, and altogether things are in favourable way.
And next year has not been lost sight of. Everton don’t believe in any might have beens. However promising players are they prefer players positive. With this view they have engaged Sam Thompson, who is yet good enough providing he is in good company. I also saw Bob Kelso knocking about Everton this week end, and, as he practically holds a free license from the North End, I have no doubt he will have been secured ere this. Next comes the ground. It is generally acknowledged that at present it is too small, and often our visitors have expressed surprise that the adjacent plot on the north side has not been acquired. I am given to understand that our friend Mr. Jackson has got so far in his negotiations with the owners, that it is nearly certain to be acquired at an early date. Then it will be a grand enclosure—worthy of such club as Everton—and no telling where we shall land at the finish—probably a racing track the rest of it.

EVERTON 2 MOSS END SWIFTS 0
May 11 1891. The Liverpool Mercury
This match which, was the last in which the Evertonians will take part this season was played on the Anfield ground in aid of the Stanley Hospital. Considering the strong efforts of the Everton excutive to hand over a good sum to this deserving institution the turn out of spectators was most disappointing, as there was only little over 2,000 presented. The Swifts brought their full strength, while Everton were short of six of their League team. During the first portion of the game the Anfielders were early on the attack, Latta after cleverly spin along on the right, causing hamilton to fist a couple of well aimed shotss and then Gordon had a grand opening, but failed to break advantage of it. Mackays was the most dangerous in the visitors van, he bring a source of trouble to Doyle and Jardine on more than one occasion. After some good defensive work by Howison and Ellis had been witnessed, Ellis got clear away on the home left, and centring capital over to Latta, the Latter scored a fine goal in rather easily fashion. Before half time, Jardine was busy keeping his charge intact, but no further points were scored. On resuming the visitors for a while held the upper hand, but their shots at goal were of wretched description, and when sent in straight were easily got rid of by Jardine. Lochhead neatly pass to Latta, who hit the crossbar, and than a lively scrimmage followed in the Scotchmen's end, from which Hammond rushed through Everton's second point. Evans now ensued, both goals in turn being visited, but on the call of time a tame and uninteresting contest ended in a win for Everton by 2 goals to nil.

ANNUAL MEETING.
May 16 th 1891. The Liverpool Football Echo.
The annual meeting of the club was held last night at College Hall, Shaw-street, there being a large number of members present. Mr. John Houlding was in the chair, supported by Messrs R.Wilson, Molyneux, Woodcock, W. Jackson, A.T. Coates, and J. Williams. The first business to be transacted was the secretary's report, which was read by Mr. Molyneux. In this it was stated that the twelve months ago they had a balance of over £400, but this had been greatly exceeded this year. As regards the goal average this season would perhaps not compare favorably with last years, but there were certain circumstances to account for this. This season they had played with superior clubs, and as a result had brought to the club superior honours. Last year they were second to Preston North End, for the League championship, being beaten by 2 points; but this season they had improved on that, and won the championship right out (applause). The League championship was far more difficult to win than the Association Cup, for if they made one slip in the latter event they were beaten, whereas they had many chances in the other, where it was a case of the “survival of the fittest.” The selection of four of their players for an International match was a great honour to Everton (applause). He hoped that the next year they would win the national trophy, and they would not be content until they had both the great prizes in the football would, side by side. The Queen's Park fixture brought credit to Everton, and added greatly to the interest of the game in Liverpool. Queen's Park badly wanted them to go to Scotland, but they could not see their way to accede to their reguest, as their dates for next season prevented this. However, they would once more have the pleasure of seeing Queen's Park enter into friendly rivalry on the Everton ground. The players engaged for next season are: - Jardine, Angus, and Smalley, goal; Marsden, Doyle, McLean, and A. Chadwick. Backs, Kelso (late of Preston North End), Holt, Lochhead, Kirkwood, R. Jones, Parry and Campbell, half-backs, Latta, Brady, Geary, E. Chadwick, Milward, Wyllie, Gordon, S. Thompson (late of Wolverhampton Wanderers), McMillian, Eliott, Murray, and Robertson, forwards. The balance sheet, which has already been published, was next read. Mr. Blundell then called attention to one or two items in the list of expenses, especially one as to a bath, which had been erected for the one of the players in Mr. Houlding's hotel, at the expense of £14. The Chairman in reply to other inquires stated that Lochhead had been advanced £130, and Marsden £50, and after a number of members had spoken on vacious questions affecting the club, he said that he simply received 4 per cent of the money he had invested in the ground -£6,000. When the club first started he only got 1 per cent and looking at its flourishing condition now, he naturally expected more. It was not his duty to provide baths, etc, under the existing circumstances.
Mr. G.M. Lindsey, an old Everton player said Mr. Houlding had lost nothing by his kindness and was proceeding to show how, when he was pulled up, and ruled out of order. Another gentleman made an inconsequential speech, amid cries of Balance sheets” and “sit down,” to which he replied amidst laughter, that he was not a “jack in the box.” The chairman next said that the committee intended to interview some of the prominent shopkeepers in church-street and Lord Street as to exhibiting the League Cup. Possibly it might be shown in Messes Elkington's window. It was next moved by Mr. Britton and ascended by Mr. Montgomery, that the accounts be passed. This was carried unanimously. Mr. Wilson said he thought they should husband the balance they had, and proposed that £300 should be placed as a reserve fund. Mr. Houlding though that this should not take effect until the 1 st September, as until that period they would be paying out. Mr. Wilson exceeded that the more money a committee had the more they would spend, but he was quite ready to accept Mr. Houlding;s suggestion. Mr. Houlding said that between £70 and £80 a week would be required for wages until September next. A member who had several complaints to air next got up and alluding to a gentleman sitting close to, who had made a remark, said “He spoke to himself, as Paddy spoke it, but I heard it “(loud laughter). He would say no more (tremendous applause). However, he still continued and although the chairman told him that he was wasting the time of the meeting, he persisted in making various suggestions, winding up with the expression of the belief that “He might be a laughing-stock.” His final announces that “he would now sit down” was again received with great applause. M. Wilson said would cost £65 or £70 to keep the players going, and this would mean £1,050 until September was reached. He pressed to withdraw his proposal; but the meeting showed its disapproval of this; and the motion that the money be at once invested was carried. Another motion that subscriptions in future paid on the 1 st September was also carried. Mr. Howarth in very eloquent terms, next moved that the meeting recommend to the committee that from the funds of the club the sum of £30 be expended in the purchase of a testimonial for their treasurer, in recognition of his past services to the club. Mr. G. Martin ascended, and it was carried amidst great applause. M. Wilson in reply said he never looked for any monetary recognition of his services, and he was deeply indebted to the members for the hearty manner in which they had passed the resolution; but he hoped, before they purchased the testimonial, they would consult Mrs. Wilson (applause). A vote of thanks to the committee followed. Mr. Pye them moved that a pavilion be built on the ground, or that one or two houses close to the ground should be rented. It was a disgrace to the club that the players should have to run the gauntlet in the manner they had in the past, and they should take precautions to prevent such scenes as occurred on the occasion of the Preston North End match. The Chairman said the committee had already had this question in hand, and it might safely be left to them. Mr. Wilson said plans were already made out, and the explanation being accepted by Mr. Pye, the motion was withdrawn. The election of officers next came on, Mr. Houlding being again elected president. In returning thanks, he said that seven or eight years ago £1 or £1 10s was considered a good gate. It was resolved that in future a public accountant be engaged to look after the accounts. The vice-chairman, the vice presidents, the hon treasurer, and the assistant-treasurer were all re-elected, and the re-election of the committee, for which there were eighteen candidates, the meeting terminated. The only alterations in the committee is that Mr. Nisbitt takes the place of Mr. Brookes, who has gone to Grimsby.

EVERTON NOTES
Athletic News - Monday 18 May 1891
So far as merit goes, I don’t think any of the League clubs can touch the team Everton could place in the field, and some of the objections to reserve teams were of a very peculiar nature.  In League circles it is considered that the better the team put on the field the better the “gate” but the Lancashire Leaguists were evidently afraid that the Reserves would include some of the first team players. 
The Everton club have almost fixed their team for next season, although they are anxious to get hold of a centre forward who belongs to another League club.  They have bene very fortunate indeed to secure R. Kelso, of North End, and Sam Thomson, of Wolverhampton Wanderers.  The old Renton man is one of the best half-backs I know, and with Holt and Lockwood, not to mention Parry and a few others, ought to make the Everton half-back line good enough for anything. 

EVERTON F.C. ANNUAL MEETING
Athletic News - Monday 18 May 1891
Compared with several previous meetings, the one under notice was a very tame affair, and I think you will agree with that there was little to take exception to. The team has done well, and the exchequer is satisfactory. And what do you wish for more? In the carping business. I fancy I recognise an old friend. He would not be put down, and had to listen to his grievances for about a quarter of an hour. Of course, during his innings he made a few hits (who could not), but, generally speaking, it was a mild affair. This was on the balance-sheet —Mr. Molyneux with his statement got scot-free.—A few other items in the balance-sheet were taken exception to, but they were satisfactorily explained. There are some members, however, who have pretentions this way, and a lot of useless talk was Indulged in.
The next move out of the ordinary course was a recommendation by Mr. Wilson that a sum of £500 should be treated as a reserve fund, and this was carried. My old friend was up again about members getting in on the “nod” at charity matches, but he did not make such a good case out of this. Then we got back to the reserve fund. You will observe we were rambling a little, but they are bad to manage. However, as I have said, that was settled, and then Tom Howarth caught the "speaker’s” eye. And the eloquence! The previous speakers were not in it. He spoke of Mr. Wilson’s services to the club, and finally proposed that a sum of £30 be voted to him in purchasing a testimonial. The worst part of it is that this eloquence was thrown away, as it is considered on all hand that Mr. Wilson has rendered good service to the club. There was no quibbling about the £30, and it goes without saying that Mr. Wilson was visibly affected on rising to respond.
Another member was a bit “thick” on having a dressing-room on the ground or renting a couple of houses for the purpose.  Several attempts were made to “shelve” him, but he stuck to his guns.  At last he collapsed when it was stated that the  committee had the matter in hand, and intended pushing it to the front. Next came the officers. The worth president and vice- presidents were duly elected, but for the treasurership a slight ruffle took place. It was only a feeble attempt on Mr. Jackson’s friends’ part, and Mr. Wilson was elected by an overwhelming majority. No exception was taken to Mr. Jackson being his assistant. A member discovered that the secretary had not been elected, but on the chairman pointing out that it was not usual for his appointment being rectified by such meetings in the ordinary course of business, the member said ho only wanted the meeting to show their confidence in Mr. Molyneux, and the matter ended. The only alteration in committee is Mr. Nesbit in place of Mr. Brooks, who has gone to Grimsby, and this is wise selection.
The Everton made a greet bid for entering their “Everton” team in the Lancashire League, but they were not successful. In connection with this League I am sure last year’s clubs, or at any rate the officials, will deeply regret the absence of Mr. James, the treasurer of the Southport Central.  He was kind, affable, and everything which makes one take to a man, and the cause of his absence was deplored all round.
A movement is on foot to present Hannah, who has returned to Renton, with testimonial, and subscriptions are coming in well.

EVERTON NOTES
Birmingham Mail - Monday 18 May 1891
The amnesty has drawn back to the Scotch League ranks Hannah (Everton), Harvie (Sunderland), J. Watts, A. Graham, and McKenzie (Newcastle West End), all of whom will go to recruit resuscitated Renton.
The Everton club have almost fixed their team for next season, although they are anxious to get hold of a centre forward who belongs to another League club.  They have bene very fortunate indeed to secure B. Kelso, of North End, and Sam Thompson, of Wolverhampton Wanderers.  The old Renton man is one of the best half-back and with Holt and Lockwood, not to mention Parry and a few others, ought to make the Everton half-back line good enough for anything. 

ANNUAL MEETINGS
Athletic News - Monday 25 May 1891
Liverpool and District Association held their animal meeting on Thursday night. The balance sheet, which was published in last week’ Athletic News, was passed, and there was only one alteration the committee. At the close, Mr. Molyueux, of Everton, got up and the clubs present to become members of the English Association, and thus merit better representation.
“Everton” have been elected members of the Combination. The team, I feel confident, will hold their own against any of the clubs forming this Combination. I dare say most of your readers have seen the list of players available, and these will be utilised as occasion, or, properly speaking, ability demands. I am confident the team Everton place in the field will quite good enough for the clubs forming this organisation, but it can only considered in the light of a reserve team. The Lancashire League would have none such, and I agree with them. If I had my way I would not have them. I am confident a strong league of Lancashire clubs could be formed, and perhaps the clubs that, hold aloof from it at present will recognise this before long. At any rate, there is no need to pander to reserve teams.