DECEMBER 1899
EVERTON 3 DERBY COUNTY 0 (Game 319)
December 4 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
Steve Bloomer of Derby order off
The recent failures of the Everton team left the managers of the club no other alterations than to adopt drastic changes for last Saturdays game and as subsequently events turned out their judgment was not misdirected. It had become apparent that Taylor's best services are rendered in the forward department and he with J.Sharp inside, formed the right wing. Toman was reintroduced to the centre forward position and Gee was dropped for Gray, who had been playing a very successful game in the combination team. At halfback Abbott filled the position vacated by Taylor, and B.Sharp was given a first trial with the League team in the position of right full back. Derby County came with their full strength, and at 2-30 the sides lined up as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Sharp (b) and Balmer, backs, Wolstenholmes Boyle, and Abbott, halfbacks, Taylor (captain), Sharp (j), Toman, Settle, and Gray forwards. Derby County: - Fryer goal, Methvan, and Leiper, backs, Leckie, Goodall (a) and May halfbacks, Wombwell, Bloomer, Boag, Arkesden, and Cooke forwards. There would be about 10,000 spectators present when Toman opened the game for Everton. play was at the outset spiritedly contested both ends being visited in rapid succession, and one dangerous movements by the County looked like bring about successful result, when Wolstenholmes cleverly chipped in and cleared in effective fashion. A movement to the other end finished up with Taylor passing splendidly to Settle and the international was only a trifle faulty with his shot. The home forwards continued to command the ball clever work coming from Gray, and once again in favorable opening was found for Settle , with no better success. Wombwell and Bloomer the County right wing pair, then caused some uneasiness to the Everton defence, and under difficulties the latter player sent in a rasping shot, which Muir justed managed to fist away. There was now on mistaking the earnestness of the Everton van in their efforts to score, and following one of several attempts to get through. Toman headed in from Taylor, and the latter rushing up met a shot from Settle and opened the scoring account. The home forwards most capably backed up by the halves kept a firm footing in the Derby half, where several tough tussles ensued for possession. Twice A.Goodall was penalised for unfair methods the second of which nearly cost his side a goal, as Boyle almost grazed the crossbar with a clever shot. Occasionally the County forwards got under weight but could exact no quarter from the home defenders. Another spurt by the right wing ended in Settle taking the ball from Sharp, and defeating Fryer with a shot that the custodian apparently misjudged. Nothing further was scored up to the interval, when Everton led by 2 goals to nil. Immediately after the resumption Toman narrowly missed scoring and following an incursion into the Everton half Taylor, replied with a clever shot that Fryer got away with difficulty. The pace did not diminish in the least. Everton having slightly the better of matters though had more attention been bestowed on the left wing pair, they must certainly have increased their lead. Retaliating a determination onslaught was made on Muir's charge, when a regrettable incident took place. Bloomer fouled B.Sharp in such a matter that the referee took extreme measures , and ordered the delinquent to leave the field , and the subsequent proceedings were consequently robbed of much of much of their attractiveness. With the County attack weakened. Everton continued to monopolise the bulk of the play, which however, proceeded in but half hearted fashion, and it was only at intervals that there was a really decided efforts made a break through. Taylor at this juncture was busy in trying to effect a downfall of the County goal, but his shots were from long ranges, and Fryer had no difficulty in dealing with them. On one occasion however, the custodian dealt splendidly with a shot from the skipper, and immediately afterwards with another from Settle close in. crooke wretched his leg and retired ten minutes from the finish and thus Everton had now to contend with but nine men. The Derby defenders bore up pluckily and repeatedly kept out the Evertonians but a few minutes from time J.Sharp met one of Gray's centres and had no difficulty in defeatening Fryer. This was the last point scored, and Everton winning by 3 goals to nil.
HURST RAMBLERS 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
December 4 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
At Hurst. Barlow finished a good run by the Hurst forwards with a wide shot from a good position. Molyneux retired hurt and Hurst had two excellent chances of scoring but missed. Robinson and Kitchen both saved difficult shots when at half time nothing had been scored. Five minutes after resuming Barlow scored for the Ramblers from a pass by Brown. From a free kick Everton hit the post, and Kitchen saved by running out. Everton could not get a footing in the Hurst terriority. Kitchen saving an ably shot, and Hurst winning by a goal to nil. (Game 15) Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Crelly, and Molyneux backs, Murphy, Gordon and Blythe, halfbacks Roche, Proudfoot, Oldham, Dawson, and Schofield, forwards .
EVERTON REVIEW
December 4 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
Everton administered a severe check to the successful progress of Derby County, with a team that was of an experience character, and had therefore to be tested before its real worth could be estimated. The result was such that the selection committee will be thoroughly justified, with it is to be hoped, equally satisfactory credit to the club being achieved. Everton however appear to be regulating their doings in the League tournament in monthly series. The instance through out October they were never on the losing side despite the fact that three of the four games took place away from home. November however, produced an exactly opposite result, not a victory being obtained. Then no sooner has December appeared than success again crowns their efforts, and the question that now arises is will the year be finished without being beaten. Derby County have experienced a royal time since September 30, and the re0introduction of Archie Goodall into the team on the date seems to have been partly responsible for their immunity from defeat in their last seven games. They met more than their match at Goodison Park, however though it should be stated it fair justice that they finished with three forwards only; but on the other hand, Everton scored two goals and demonstrated their superiority in most marked fashion, when the Peakites had their full complement of players. This was in the first half, during which period the home forwards showed more ability and efficiency man has been before witnessed this season. The chief feature was the capable work accomplished by the left wing, where Settle had Gray for a partner. Straight away the pair tumbled to each other's play, and some of the nearest titbits of the game were the direct outcome of their clever combination. If Gray who passes very judiciously and centres equally well, can maintain this form than Settle has obtained at last a suitable auxiliary, and this wing should regain the prestige achieved during the Chadwick-Milward regimes. Toman was passable in the centre, but he has yet to electrify the crowd, and good play alternated with much that was only moderate. The right wing display any amount of dash and by the exercise of more discretion when the ball has been carried up to an opponent's goal greater efficiency in the matter of scoring would ensue. There was such a distinct advance all along the line on previous displays that the future performances of the front rank will be awaited with more equanimity. At half-back, the new comer Abbott filled the position most creditably and with his weight should develop into one of the useful, bustling sort of halves that upset the finer combination of an opposing wing. Boyle and Wolstenholmes were in their particular spheres very successful, the cool effective methods of the latter and the occasional pops at goal of the centre interceperesed amongst other smart work, being equally conspicuous. Further behind B.Sharp very well and has only to retained a tendency to rashness to make a capable partner to Balmer who gave a rare display of resolute defence. So sound was the play of the division that Muir was rarely called upon, and was never in difficulties out his vis-à-vis. Fryer, had much to contend against and many were the splendid saves that the clever Derby custodian manipulated. The visitor's backs and halves were not particularly prominent, but the forwards gave glimpses of cleverness that under more advantageous conditions might have led to a greater strain on the Everton defence. It was a distinctly unfortunate occurrence for the County when Bloomer had to be summarily dealt with by the referee. The right winger had been previously cautioned, though Goodall was the more prominent in this respect and when he deliberately attacked B.Sharp the extreme penalty of the law had to be brought into operation. Also it is equally to be regretted that some of the habitues of the reserved side of the ground should have so far forgotten their dignity, and sportsmanship as to level epithets at the unfortunate player, unfit for publication as he wended his way towards the dressing room. It this state of affairs prevails where the most dangerous congregate what can be expected from the popular sides of the ground. But in this respect it must be admitted that spectators at both Anfield and Goodison Park might with advantage to themselves, the officials and players engaged, and to the game in general adopt a more chivalrous attitude. There can surely be no greater degradation to a player than to have to wander off the ground, amidst the gaze of thousands of onlookers, without needless insult being added. The misfortunate of the visitors did not end here, for Cooke had to leave the field ten minutes from time with an injured leg, in that comment on the play of the remainder would be unnecessary. Everton thoroughly deserved their victory, and there can be little doubt but that the new combination will be allowed an extended trail to test whether Saturday's display was but a flash in the pan or the demonstration of what may be perhaps intensified in future games. Nous Verrons.
BURY 4 EVERTON 1 (Game 320)
December 11 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
The first of the season's engagements between these took place at Bury on Saturday, before close upon 8,000 spectators. The directors of the Everton club placed the same team in the field that defeated Derby County so decisively on the previous Sarturday, and on the Bury side Woods was absentes in the forward line. At 2-30 the sides turned out as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Sharp (b), and Balmer (w), backs Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Abbott, halfbacks, Taylor (captain), Sharp, Toman, Settle, and Gray forwards. Bury: - Thompson, goal, Darroch, and Davidson, backs, Pray, Leeming, and Ross, halfbacks Richards, Brimblecombe, McKuchie, Sagar and Plant, forwards. Bury won the toss, and had the assistance of a slight breeze, and were quickly within range of Everton goal. Sharp eventually effected relief, and Gray, with Settle carried play to the other end, where however, their career was brought to a close by the timely attentions of Darroch, who cleared in powerful fashion. Sharp next tried to get through, but to no purpose, and Balmer who was at this period playing a most effective game promptly accounted for several efforts by McLuckie. By steady stages Everton worked down to the home goal, when faulty passing nullified previous good work, and relief came from a poor attempt to score by Wolstenholmes. The Bury forwards then raced away, and when in good position McLuckie was pulled up for offside, though a few minutes later Darroch with a long shot from a free kick was only a trifle faulty in elevation. Following this several exchanges took place in front of the Bury goal, which eventually fell to Taylor, who opened the scoring after play had been in progress half an hour. Everton's success however was not short lived, as a few minutes later Boyle failed to tackle McLuckie and the latter sent in a low swift shot that gave Muir no chance to save. Play was exceptionally keen up to the interval, when score stood one goal each. The second half opened with Bury pressing in persistent fashion, and from a misunderstanding between B.Sharp and Boyle, Sagar pounced upon the ball and easily gave his side the lead. The Bury forwards now infused any amount of dash into their work, and for some little time the Everton defenders had considerable difficulty in contending with the Bury onslaughts several times however the Evertonians got well down, only to be faulty with the final touches, and following a series of raids on Muir charge. Richards scored a third goal with Muir making a poor attempt to save. Everton were now completely outplayed and towards the close Muir saved but partially from Richards, and Sagar rushing up added a fourth goal. And Bury winning by 4 goals to 1.
EVERTON RESERVES 1 BURY RESERVES 0
December 11 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
At Goodison Park, before 2,000 spectators. Oldham started for Everton, the play at the start being evenly conducted. Bury got a corner, which proved useless. Everton taking play to the other end, where Gee nearly headed through. Everton were weak in front of goal, several chances being lost. Half time no score. Bury restarted and had a player winded soon after, but he continued to play. Everton continued to press, as in the initial half, but shot miserably, though Bury's defence was keen. Two minutes before time Crofton standing offside put the ball through and though Bury protested the goal was allowed. This proved to be the only point and Everton winning by 1 goal to nil. (Game 16) Everton: - Kitchen goal, Eccles, and Crelly, backs Proudfoot, Gordon and Blythe halfbacks Roche Dawson, Oldham Crofton, and Gee, forwards.
EVERTON REVIEW
December 11 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
Following upon the excellent performance by the Everton team at Goodison road, against Derby County on Saturday week, the result of the game at Bury must have come as a big surprise to the numerous followers of the club. Let it be said at once that they were beaten by a better team in so far as downright dogged determination can play a part, but at the same time a result of four goals to one was not at all in keeping with the actual run of the game. Those who followed closely the vicissitudes of play could not but arrive at any other conclusion than that the Bury eleven was distinctly fortunate to win by so wide a margin; indeed, they were greatly assisted in obtaining so handsome a result in a manner the is not likely to serve them again to such pronounced advantage. Every close follower of the game, must by this time be ready to admit that the Bury eleven are a force difficult to contended against, and defeatt at their hands would cost no stigma upon the most pretentious club at he present time. Yet it could not but be admitted by even the most enthusiastic followers of the East Lancashire club that Everton on Saturday for the greater portion of the game, played the more attractive football and were likely to at least share the honours of the day. They were the first to score-a success that was fully merited and it was distinctly unfortunate that their centre half allowed McLuckie to put in a parting shot, especially as the Evertonians had previously dealt with everything that came his way in successful; fashion. At the interval honours were diverted though on the exposition of the nicer points the visitors certainly deserved to take the lead, but on resuming disaster followed disaster with a result already well known. A misunderstanding between Boyle and B.Sharp, either of whom could have cleared the ball with considerable ease, led to the Bury inside left chipping in and scoring at a time when such was little dreamt of, and from this point on, the Everton players showed once again their inability to play an uphill game. The Bury forwards encouraged on taking the lead fairly stopped at nothing. Sheer desperation carried them through, and their superior Wright played more than an ordinary part in the after proceedings. At the same time the scoring should have ended, and with a result of two goals to one, every right-minded sportsman must have admitted that this was an accurate reflection on the general run of the game. The third and fourth goals were about absolutely given to them, and for once in a way it is a very unpleasant task to chronicle the fact that Muir was at fault. His attempts to save the third goal were extremely feeble and the fourth was the outcome of a partial save from the right wing. Though the results seem to point the fact that the preceding Saturday's display with a reorganised team was altogether a flash in the pan, it must be received with the utmost caution. Mistakes was made by certain members of the team, and these practically the only ones in the game, was attended with fatal results. So far as one can judge, the directors will be well advised in giving the present team an extended trial, for in antagonising Bury at Gigg Lane, it must be admitted that they had no hand the stiffest task of the day. Unfortunately Settle was the object of very close attention from his old clubmates, for the international was shadowed at every turn by at least a trio of opponents, and if this had been their only ‘'mission'' they accomplished it with district success. Under the circumstances it would have been far more advantageous had play been directed in other quarters, as it was evident that little could be expected from Settle under such difficult conditions and his comparatively light partner was no match for the burly Bury defenders. Toman at the centre did little towards effecting success, and the wings were generally left to make play for themselves. In the halfbacks line, Abbott got through his work in very capable fashion as no doubt Richards and Brimblecome will ably testify, and it is unfortunate that Boyle should have been temporarily at fault after playing a sterling game for the greater part of the proceedings. Wolstenholmes has played many a finer game, and at full back while Balmer did well, Sharp did not give a very promising display and was practically to blame for the second downfall. In McLuckie the Bury club posses a centre forward of the best class. He was always ready to take advantage of the slightest intake on the part on the visiting team and he tricky play and dangerous shooting were among the foremost features of the game. Sagar was also a difficult player to contend with, but the whole line were full of determination and backed up as they were by their halves they formed an attack that would provided plent of work for the best defenders. Leeming, at centre half firmly outwitted Toman and for solid defensive work none did better than Darroch though his partner Davidson suffered little by comparison. The pair were not most unstiring in their efforts, and when at times they were beaten Thompson, in goal was a reliable custodian to fall back upon. Taking the game all through Everton in point of skill, except when in front of goal, were not one whit deficient, but in weight and persistent go-a headedness their visitors gave than a long start.
EVERTON 0 NOTTS COUNTY 2 (Game 321)
December 18 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
The first of the season's engagements between these clubs took place at Goodison Park on Saturday, but the wintry conditions that prevailed failed to attract the usual gathering of spectators. Everton relied upon the same team that met with defeat with Bury on the previous Saturday, and at 2-15 the sides took their position as follows: - Everton: - Muir goal, Sharp (b) and Balmer (w) backs Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Abbott halfbacks Taylor (captain), Sharp, Toman, Settle and Gray forwards. Notts County: - Suter goal, Montogomery, and Lewis, backs, McDonald, Bull and Ball halfbacks Hadley, McConnachie, McMain, Goss and Chalmers, forwards . The Notts set the ball in motion but Everton were the first to getb down, and Gray was not far from the mark with a clever shot. When the game resumed there were several unverting incidents due to the slippery nature of the ground, and during a period in which Everton players appeared to be taking particular care with regard to sustaining their equnbrium the Notts left caused through and sending across to Hadley the latter registered a goal after the game had been in progress for five minutes. This reverse did not at a rouse the Evertonians to put forward better efforts and play for some little time was slightly in favour of the visitors breaking away. Toman headed in and Suter just managed to get the ball away in time, but the exchanges were of the tamest description and indeed faulty, so far as Everton were concern. Most danger came from the Notts front line, long kicking and close following up being tactics that stood out prominently, and had they been at all proficient when within shooting range they must have increased their lead handsomely. On one occasion Chalmers had an open goal, but shot outside, and this was followed by other attempts from McMain and Hadley. The Everton forwards eventually roused themselves but there was no stirring in their attack and the County backs were always enabled to clear with ease. A corner kick was well taken by Sharp though little effort was made to utilise it, and the interval arrived, Muir had to put forward his best efforts to prevent further disaster from Chalmers and McConnachie, both of whom making clever attempts to convert centres from Hadley. Nothing further was added up to the interval when the score stood Notts County 1 goal Everton nil. On resuming Notts continued to be the more aggressive the wingmen being by comparison with their opponents, very smart in timing their centres. Both fore and alt the Evertonians were showing very poor form, and taking full advantage, the Notts forwards swooped down on the home goal. From a corner kick Goss placed the ball into the net, without it however touching a second player though on returning again a similar concess on led to McMain scoring a second goal giving Muir no chance of scoring. The Everton team had by this time became quite disorganised, and but for the plucky defence of Muir between the uprights heavy scoring must have been recorded against them. At intervals Gray and Settle cut out the pace, but they were always accounted for by the visitors backs who in conjunction with their confreres, were determined to maintain their advantage. A further attack culminated in a fine shot from Bull which, Muir cleverly dealt with, and during the next few minutes the Everton goal was subjected to several measures, and would easily have been captured had not the custodian been in one of his best moods. Everton never looked like reducing the lead and when the end came with Notts pressing the score stood Notts 2 goals, Everton nil.
MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
December 18 1899. The Liverpool Mercury at Manchester. Smith started, and strong pressure was put on the visiting goal, but the insecure foothold prevented accurate play. Gee than had a splendid chance, but shot very wide. Threlfall and Gee were each other stoopped in turn for offside. The City men were having the major portion of play, but both sets of forwarsds combined well. The Everton backs were not too safe and time after time Smith and his forwards worked through, only to shoot badly at the critical moments. Kitchen miskicked at a long shot from Dunn, and almost put the ball through his own goal. A subsqently attack by the visitors led to nothing Bowman twice coming to the rescue after Gee had beaten Howarth. Gee put in a good run, Chappel only just saving. The interval came with a blank score sheet. Everton recommenced with a very determined rush, Chappell saving at the expense of a fruitless corner. The home defence were now troubled, the breeze assisting Everton. Chappell was again called upon but not seriously and the game continued fast and very even. Hunter sent wide with a long shot, and Gee was forced out when in a caital position. Poor shooting by the Everton forwards prevent a probable score though Chappell had to handle a few times. Each side strove desperately hard for the lead, and eventually Smith scored the first goal for the City from a penalty kick. The first time the kick was taken, Kitchen saved, but for some reason or other the kick was ordered to be taken again and Manchester City winning by a goal to nil. (Game 17) Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Eccles and Crelly, backs Murphy, Gordon and Blythe, halfbacks Roche, Dawson Oldham Proudfoot and Gee forwards.
EVERTON REVIEW
December 18 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
The display of the high priced and much belauded Everton team against notts County was about as bad as anything that has been witnessed in Liverpool since the formation of the club and following the equally feeble exhibition at Anfield the previous week by the Liverpool eleven, and the general inefficiently of boths clubs since the season opened one can only wonder how much further the clubs are going to sink into the mire. One thing is certain, that unless is tremendous improvement in play takes places and immediately too, the support of the public will assuredly be withdrawn though this is already occurring to an alarming extent, for the tremble sixpence is too great a price for the enjoyment of 90 minutes excruciating agony. Half the season has almost passed, and the only return obtained thus far a an extreme likelihood of relegation to the Second Division. Truly not a very encouraging receipts for the amount of attention that has been bestowed upon the man, whilst worst of all is the fact that there appears to be no likelihood of an unprovement. The weak half-hearted tactics of the Everton team were never as forcibly paraded before an expectant crowd than was the case on Saturday. They had to meet Notts County a team that for inefficiency and feebleness could scarcely be exceeded by any combination in the County. Under such conditions and the additional advantage of playing at home Everton were naturally expected to score a decisive victory. What was the result ? Not only defeat, but absolute rourt: toyed with by an admittedly weak combination, one of the feeblest attacking forces in the league, and held up to ridicule and derision by a team that has had more goals scored against it than any other team, either in the first or second division of the league. No wonder men rubbed their eyes and gazed in astonishment at the display dished up for their benefit and approval. Not only was it in a single department of the eleven that weakness and downright inability were displayed, but with the exception of Muir, every branch of the team shuffled about in a style alike cruds and elementary; the best they could accomplish being to arouse applause erratic and the ridicule of the majority of the crowd. It is useless as to single out any particular individual as being better or worse than his fellow, for all were bemeared with the same taint of Stewian blackness. Muir alone prevented the rout from becoming a wholesale disaster and whilst the men in front of him were wallowing in a fathomless depth of blundering, he alone held his own in splendid fashion. Of the pautry passing, which almost invariably led to a Notts man obtaining possession of the half hearted movements throughout the game, of the absent shooting; of the clumsily abortive attempts to make headway against a well known feeble defence; nothing need to be said except that all these weaknesses were presented on an entirely that could have been exceeded by very few teams with any pretensions whatever to ability. Notts deserved to win fully, by the two clear goals, and at their present precarious position the points would be extremely welcome. Their half backs played determined game, as did also the full backs, and the forwards at times-in the last twenty minutes particularly-showed fairly smart play, which improved as the deterioration of the home team became more pronounced. The fact that Suter had not a decent shot to stop throughout the game is sufficient evidence of the jurodiness of the Everton forwards, and those who witnessed the custodian display at Anfield. A few weeks ago when any sort of shot seemed likely to beat him, must have experienced some curious feelings respecting the home front rank. What to do with the Everton team is a mystery, but one thing seems assured that they are not a combination that can be relied upon, and they are just as likely to play a downright good game as an out, and bad one. They displayed the latter side of their character against Notts, and it will require some starling success to rehabilitate them in the good graces of their supporters.
BURNLEY 2 EVERTON 1
December 19 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
Lancashire Senior Cup
The above clubs met in the first round of the Lancashire Cup at Burnley yesterday, the weather, after a foggy morning, turning out beautiful fine. There however was only a meagre attendance. There was only one change on either side, Eccles taking Crelly's place at full back in the Everton team whilst for Burnley Woolfall resumes his old position. Everton: - Kitchen goal Eccles and Balmer backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle and Abbott halfbacks Taylor (captain), Proudfoot Toman Settle, and Gray forwards. Burnley: - Hillman, goal, Woolfall and McLintock, backs Jenkinson Taylor, and Livingston halfbacks, Morrison Watkins, Chadwick Bowan and Miller forwards. It was ten minutes after the advertised time when the Referee Mr.T.Holmes (Faunworth) ‘'piped'' for the commencement of hostilities. Everton started and after disatory opening phases, Toman was pulled up on account of officials play. The subsequent free kick gave no advantage to Burnley, as Balmer returned and Taylor shot in only to find Hillman in readiness. A second free kick to the home side was followed by a hot attack in the Everton goal the ball being headed in success, vely by Bowes Millar and Chadwick the ex-Evertonian, sending outside on the last occasion. An attack on the Burnley goal was frustrated by the vigilance of Mclintock, and in close following Chadwick shot from short range, Kitchen effecting a fine clearance from a ‘'grounder'' A corner kick was the result, but Taylor shot was cleared by Balmer and Abbott placed his forwards in possession the movement being spoiled by Taylor, who at this period was displaying excellent form, repeatedly breaking up the many efforts of the Everton forwards. Upon Burnley had a fine chance of opening their scoring account, Morrison and Watkins working down nicely only to find the former placed offside after receiving a faulty pass from his partner Settle and Gray next moved away and with a free kick accruing matters assumed an ominous aspect for Burnley until Chadwick intercepted, and got the ball out of danger. A moment later the Burnley right broke off, and Morrison after tricking Balmer turned round shooting securately and forcibly a fine save coming from Eccles Burnley continued turned round shooting continued to have the best of matters and after Livingstone had cleared an attack, some capital combination on the part of Morrison. Watkin and Chadwick ended in the latter scoring the first point for the home side, Kitchen having no posible chance. Nettled by the reverse, the ‘'Blues'' played up desperately but their efforts lacked the necessary finish and as a rule the Burnley backs, and no difficulty in staving off disaster, McLintock however, being communally on the alert. Once Toman broke through and shot, but the ball hit the outside of the net, and on kicking out Burnley moved to the other end where Miller recorded their second point, the auditional success being received with delight by the partisans of the home club. Everton now had a turn in which Taylor and Proudfoot did good services but their efforts were successfully parried and following futile shot at the winning goal by Millar and Bowes, half time was announced with Burnley leading by two goals to nil. On resuming Everton took the initiative and Taylor shot, the ball going wide of the post. At the other end, Kitchen was troubled by Chadwick, but the custodian cleared and Taylor and Proudfoot worked down only to be checked by Woolfall, who sent across to Bowes and Millar to trouble Eccles. The latter cleared and Everton forced a corner, which resulted in a goal, Settle heading beautifully past Hillman, after play had been in progress ten minutes. A few minutes later the international had another try, but without success this time attending his efforts. End to end play followed, but the game slowed down somewhat, neither side exerting themselves to any great extent. Everton, however, had a glorious opportunity on one occasion, when Taylor sent across to Toman who preferred to leave the final attempt to Settle the latter with a clever goal, making a wild attempt which went high and wide. Taylor then made a praiseworthy attempt from Gray's pass, after which the Burnley forwards made fine headway, Kitchen having to clear successfully from Morrison and Watkins. On the latter occasion the ball went to Bowes, and in conjunction with Millar the former initiated a further attack on the Everton citadel. Wolstenholmes coming to the relief of his side in the nick of time. Taylor and Proudfoot was next in evidence but Settle shot yards wide, and a prolonged attack by Burnley was ended by a faulty shot from Bowes. From this point, Evertonians tried hard to lower the home colours again but the opposing defences was sound, and Burnley entered the next round by virtue of a victory of two goals to one.
MANCHESTER CITY 1 EVERTON 2 (Game 322)
December 25 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
The first of the season's League engagements between these clubs took place at Hyde road on Saturday, before about 15,000 spectators. In the Everton ranks Proudfoot displaced Toman at centre-forward, and Eccles resumed his old position vice B.Sharp. The City were well represented and at 2-15 the sides faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Eccles and Balmer backs, Wolstenholmes, Boyle, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp, Taylor (captain), Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray, forwards. Manchester City: - Williams, goal, Read, and Jones backs, Moffatt, Smith and Holmes, halfbacks Meredith, Ross Gillespie, Williams, and Dougals, forwards. Everton commenced operations and being the first to make an incisive attack, Williams was called upon early to keep out a shot from Taylor. The City right wing then gave considerable trouble to Balmer, who, however, met all demands with confidences and with some fine clean kicking frequently placed his side in possession. Settle and Proudfoot led on a movement to the other end where however, the former was at fault at the finish, though returning again, sharp made a hold bid for the downfall of the home goal. The play was most spiritedly contested. Ross and Meredith on the City side being most conspicuous but opposed by Abbott they did not receive much quarter, and Muir was not seriously troubled. The Everton van infused plenty of dash into their play, and was particularly keen on the ball. The whole line passed and repassed in clever fashion, and had the final efforts been at all in keeping with the generally play they must have early opened the scoring. However, the City pulled themselves together, and for some time had much the greater share of the play. They were prevented from becoming dangerous by the close attentions of the Everton trio, though on one occasion Ross was only a trifle wide with a fast low shot. Toward the interval Meredith put in a capital cross shot which should have been converted, but nothing was scored upto half time. The second half opened with the City pressing smartly but they could not defeat Muir, and retaliating the Everton right wing became aggressive with the result that Sharp put in a swinging centre, which gray headed into net, play having been in progress twelve minutes from the resumption. Eccles smartly pulled up Dougal when defeat looked certain, and immediately afterwards Gray had an open goal, but made poor use of his opportunity. Boyle followed with a long shot, and for some time the Everton forwards were peppering at the City goal, which had several narrow escapes. Eventually Settle met a centre from sharp, and, eluding the backs sent in a low shot out of the reach of Williams. Fifteen minutes were left for play, and Everton looked like adding to the score, when the City put on a spurt and gave Muir an anxious time. Three minutes from the finish Smith put in a cross shot, which Meredith converted and when the end came Everton were victors of a hard and intestering game by two goals to one.
EVERTON RESERVES 3 WREXHAM 1
December 25 1899. The Liverpool mercury
This friendly was played at Goodison park before a poor crowd. Wrexham delayed the game half an hour owing to late arrival. Oldham started for Everton, and play was even at the outset. Wrexham forced a corner, which was cleared, and Oldham rushing the ball to the opposite end and beat Jardine and repeated the dose a minute or two later. Before the interval Schofield scored again. Half time Everton 3 goals, Wrexham nil. Result Everton 3 goals Wrexham 1. Everton; - Kitchen, goal, Dixon and Murphy backs, Gordon, Blythe, and Roche, halfbacks, Dawson, Oldham, Toman, Chadwick (a), and Schofield forwards.
EVERTON REVIEW
December 25 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
All those who are interested either in the fortunes or misfortunate of the Everton Football Club have had their minds exercised to a stretch almost beyond breaking point. It frequently happens that a football team will have a very disteroius experience during the first half of the season, and often reach it turning point at the turn of the year. We hope that this may be the case with the Everton Football Club. It has certainly not had much to congratulate itself upon in the first half of the season; but it has arrived at the Christmas holiday time, and judging by its initial performances there is reason to believe that its path will be much smoother than it has been. It is a singular that the two Liverpool Football clubs, which have been companious in distress upto the present moment, should in their rivalry to the water ‘'port'' have found no difficulty in being triumphant. Liverpool went to cottonopelis and obtained a welcome, though a most unexpected, couple of points. Everton have followed the example set them by their neigbours, and it must be admitted that on the top of their inglorious exhibition against such a feeble team as Notts County has been during the greater part of the season, their defeat of Manchester City is nothing less than a revelation. It must be accepted as an omen. There is not the slightest doubt that the team is now capable of fulfilling almost anything that is asked of it. Every member has been tried, and thoroughly understands his duty. It will not be a question of management if successes are not obtained in the near future it will be a question of individuals responsibility in the team itself. The Manchester City Football Club surprised not only its immediate supporters, but the whole football world by its sequence of successes in the preliminary portion of the season. Ross who as a man familiar to our own football enthusiasts, had a great deal to do with the advancements of the City club, and there is so no doubt that his judgement made the attack most dangerous. His incisive style of play made a marked impression, as the fruitless of the scoring in the earlier matches simply demonstrates. The Manchester men however have during the last couple of months found that First League football requires more than fillip. It depends, as they have discovered not merely dash, of skill, of conditions, but harmonious and thorough brotherly feelings. These latter qualities on Saturday stood out prominently in so far as the Everton players were concerted for, taking the game throughout there was a more general distribution of the work, which must eventually exames a considerable bearing upon the result of any game. Particularly was this the case among the forwards whose crisp low, and accurate passing stood out prominently during the greater portion of the game. They were certainly not as successful with their finishing touches as might be desired but at any rate of they exemplified to the full the necessity of free and concerted action as the essentials of success. The quintet were in a happy frames of mind all through the proceedings and to one who closely follows the fortunes of the club their display came as a most welcome surprise after the reverse of the previous week. The whole team to a man played excellent football so that individual mention would be altogether invidious. The City had slightly the better of matters during the initial molety in so far as opportunities to score were concerted, but on turning round there could be no question as to which was the better team, and the most gratifying feature of all was the exception-that the result was an accurate reflex upon the general run of the game. Though all played well, criticism of the game would not be complete without a passing mention of the work of Muir, whose clever custodianship, it can be confidently stated, has not been surpassed in the history of the Everton Football Club. Most of the home attack was levelled from the right wing, and shadowed as it was by very clever halfback play on the part of Abbott and Boyle, it was not at all advantageous. The left wing pair were practically onlookers of the game, for it was only on odd occasions that the ball came their way. Dougal and Williams may not be players for the highest order, but from what could be gathered when placed in possession they were certainly worthy of more recognition by the centre forwards. The halfbacks foremost among whom was Smith got through their work in a creditable fashion, and no fault could be found with the last lines of defence. Considering the heavy states of the ground, it was a capital game and having now made amends for they ugly reverse of the previous week, one may anticipate a revival of interest at Goodison Park today when the Stoke team appear in the return League engagement.
EVERTON 2 STOKE 0 (Game 323)
December 26 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
Proudfoot Blast Penalty Over Bar.
Following upon the fine performance of the Everton team at Manchester on Saturday, the acquisition of a couple of points yesterday afternoon was looked forwards to with confidence. An injury to Wolstenholmes let in Blythe and on the visiting side Maxwell filled the centre forward position, with Jones on the inside left. At two o'clock the sides faced as follows : - Everton: - Muir, goal Eccles, and Balmer, backs, Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, halfbacks Sharp, Taylor (captain), Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray forwards Stoke: - Wilkes goal, Robertson, and Capewell, backs, Parsons, Wood, and Bradley halfbacks, Johnson, Kennedy, Maxwell, Jones and Turner forwards. Stoke commenced operations when the Everton forwards at once bounded into a capital stride, and during the first couple of minutes Wilkes was called upon to save two clinking shots from Gray. Maxwell eventually got through, but fouled Boyle and this resulted in play being again contested in the Stoke half. Robertson was hard pressed, and in kicking back to Wilkes gave a corner, which culminated in Blythe dropping the ball on the top of the net from a cross shot by Gray. There could be no mistaking the earnestness of the play of the Everton forwards, and under severe pressure the Stoke backs acquitted themselves in creditable fashion. The Stoke left wing was next in evidence, and when Turner looked like getting though Eccles came to the rescue and saved though at the expense of a free kick taken close in. balmer effected a clearance though for some minutes the Stoke forwards gave considerable trouble to the Everton defenders. Attacking again Settle shot on, only to find Wilkes swooping the ball out from the line, and on Gray centring the ball, Robertson conceded a corner, which came to nothing. Proudfoot and Settle was next prominent the latter being only a trifle wide after defeating a trio of opponents and a moment later Gray sent in a beautifully shot which Williams ably got away. An excellent opening was then made for Settle, but delaying his final efforts Capewell stepped across and removed danger. The pace, which had been maintained, at high pressure slackened down somewhat and for a little time the game was contested mainly in midfield. Johnson sent in a clever centre, which Jones failed to convert only by the merest shave, and returning again, Parson tested Muir with a long low shot, to which the custodian attended in his best style. Stoke kept up a steady pressure, but could exact no quarters from Eccles and Balmer, and during the next few minutes both Taylor and Proudfoot from good range were faulty in direction. Sharp put in several fine touches of play, which led to a bombardment of the Stoke goal. Among capital attempts to score was one by Balmer which troubled Wilkes and following further pressure in the goal mouth the home lot ought certainly to have opened the scoring account. Their finishing touches were in almost every instance rendered ineffective by dallying, with the result that the Stoke defenders were given every opportunity of earging down the ball. Following a breakaway by the visiting right wing, Abbott Settle, and Gray by a fine concerted movement brought the play once again in the vicinity of Wilkes charge, Settle then gave Taylor a splendid chance of scoring, the latter play having absolutely none to defeat but the custodian and to the surprise of the crowd the ball was put wide of the post. The Potters signalised their many escapes by playing up with greater spirit. On Everton attacking again, Aspinall foolishly handled the ball within the twelve yards line, when no opponents was near him, and the referee, after consulting the linesman, granted a penalty kick , which Proudfoot failed to convert, the ball travelling high over the bar. Half time was announced shortly afterwards, there being no score. On resuming, Everton immediately put on pressure, which ended with a magnificent shit from Settle the custodian bring, fortunate for his side, in the line of direction. The Stoke left then made play and forced a corner kick, which came to nothing, and following this Gray was conspicuous with some very fine passing to his partner. Play for a few minutes was kept well within the Stoke quarters where a couple of good openings were nullified by Gray lying offside. Neat passing between Maxwell and Turner enabled the former to get clean away, but Eccles cleverly kicked when the Stoke centre was about to shoot. Eccles was again prominent clearing a fine cross from Johnson, Everton initiate a smart attack on the left wing, and Gray sent across a beautiful centre, which enabled Taylor to headed into the net, the point being received with vociferous applause. Everton pressed, and from Sharp's centre Gray headed inches wide, whilst after a neat pass from Taylor to Sharp the latter raced down, centred, and a most exciting scrimmage followed near Wilkes, who luckily managed to get the ball away. He was however completely beaten by a shot from Taylor, which unfortunately for Everton, hit the upright. Everton attacked in vigorous fashion, and Stoke only broke away at intervals. Balmer on one occasions kicking away a dangerous centre from Turner. Maxwell made one or two determined efforts to break through, but was baulked, though his final efforts were extremely clever. Stoke played up vigorously, but a weak return by Robertson placed to Proudfoot in possession and passing to Settle, the latter scored a second goal. The ex-Bury man then left the field, and nothing further being scored. Everton gained a well-merited victory by 2 goals to nil.
ST HELENS RECREATION 1 EVERTON RESERVES 3
December 26 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
These teams met at the ground of the first named at City road St Helens yesterday afternoon. There was a large holiday crowd present and a splendidly contested games was witnessed. The visitors won the toss and played with the ground and wind in their favour during the first half. The game was evenly contested at the start, but the visitors gradually were their opponents down and scored twice. Just before half time the Recs put in some good work, and after the goalkeeper had stopped some hot shots, Leigh scored for the Recs. Ends were changed with the visitors leading by two goals to one. The play was very even in the second half and the only point scored was by the Evertonians who won by three goals to one the Everton goals being scored by Gee, Dawson, and Oldham. Everton: - Kitchen, goal, Crelly, and Molyneux, backs, Murphy, Gordon, and Blythe, halfbacks Roche, Oldham, Toman, Dawson, and Gee forwards .
WEST BROMWICH ALBION 0 EVERTON 0 (Game 324)
December 27 1899. The Liverpool Mercury
The return League engagement between these clubs took place at Stoney-lane, yesterday in fine though cold weather, in the presence of some 12,000 spectators. Although, when at Goodison Park, the Throstles beat Everton decisively, there was reason, for hope in view of the excellent holiday performance of the Goodison road team coming successfully through the engagement. There was some uncertainly as to whether Settle would be able to play owing to a kick received in the Stoke match, and it was not until the last minute that it was decided to place him in the team, so that the side was unchanged. On the Albion side, Walker displaced Roberts, and at two o'clock the teams faced as follows: - Everton: - Muir, goal, Eccles, and Balmer, backs Blythe, Boyle, and Abbott, halfbacks, Sharp Taylor (captain), Proudfoot, Settle, and Gray forwards. West Bromwich Albion: - Reader, goal, Adams, and Williams, backs, Dunn, Jones, and Banks, halfbacks, Paddock, Perry, Simmonds, Walker, and Garfield, forwards. The Albion commenced play, and in the first couple of minutes, Muir was as many times tested, his second save, with a flying kick being nothing less than brilliant. The Everton left then get away, and sending across, Sharp was given a fairly easy chance of opening the scoring, but shot very high over the bar. Play was fast, and some very fine passages took place between the Everton forwards, these being most ably backed up by the halves, of whom Abbott was particularly effective. A collision between Blythe and Garfield resulted in a short delay, and on play being resumed the Albion centre put in good work and attending to his left wing, danger came from Garfield, who however drove too strongly ahead, the ball rolling harmlessly over the line. Directly afterwards Balmer pulled up Paddock and Perry in clever fashion, but gradually the Albion asserted themselves, and Walker with a capital opening was very faulty with his finishing touches. A free kick gave the Albion further advantage, but this was nullified by a smart kick from Taylor, who in conjunction with Sharp brought hostilities to the other end. End to end play followed in raid succession, and both sets of backs proved capable in every instance. Eccles had the greater share of defence, though on one occasion a header from Simmonds, the custodian eventually applying his fist to the ball at the right moment, might easily have beaten Muir. Play then took a turn in favour of Everton, for whom Taylor and Sharp made considerable headway, and nothing but the sterling defence of Williams could have prevented the winger from scoring. A moment later Eccles pulled up Perry, after Balmer had been beaten, and returning again Williams put the ball splendidly into goal from a free kick, Muir skillfully getting away from Garfield are being bundled into the net. Immediately after Walker looked like getting through, when the custodian again anticipated the direction of the Albionite's shot, and, aided by a couple of free kicks, the home goal was subjected to pressure. Gray forced a corner off Adams, but Taylor put the ball high over the bar. Then followed a really clever attempt on the part of the Everton centre, and right wing to score, several exchanges taking place, Boyle put in a capital effort that only just missed the mark. Returning again Settle sent in a terrific shot against the side of the net, and another from Gray called for Reader's best efforts to prevent downfall. Both Williams and Adams were playing a capital game and repeatedly cleared danger, and a dash to the other end found the Everton goal in jeopardy from hands by Eccles. However, the visiting defenders were equally capable and play again settled down in the home half. Sharp forced a corner, which came to nothing, and immediately afterwards Taylor taking advantage of a feeble attempt to clear by Banks was only a\ trifle too high with a clever shot. Towards the interval the Albion pressed, and simmonds after several attempts had been made by the right wing, missed an easy chance from close quarters. A free kick was awarded the Albion close on the penalty line, and Williams only just missed scoring by the merest shave. Half time was now announced, nothing having been scored. Immediately on resuming the Albion left forced a corner, which looked like bring about a tangible result, when Balmer came to the rescue, and on a further return Adams the home right full back, somewhat surprised the crowd with a capital shot that only justed missed the mark. The Everton left were then in evidence, but there was no getting through, and pulling themselves together there was a most determined attack upon the Everton goal, the ball on one occasion being put into the net from a free kick, without however touching a other player in transit. Playing with the slope, the Albion forwards were most aggressive, Muir saving from Paddock twice in succession, whilst Garfield only narrowly missed the mark with a swift shot across goal. At length Everton forwards made headway, and Taylor, being unable to steady himself, missed a chance of defeating Reader from close range. At this juncture Garfield strained his leg, and this caused his retirement for some few minutes. The Albion right wing again threatened danger, and one pass from Paddock to Walker resulted in the latter skimming the bar. The Albion missed several openings forwards. After sustaining a long spell of pressure, the Everton right wing raced away, only to find the home defenders thoroughly safe. Paddock then twice rounded Balmer in easy fashion, Perry meeting a beautiful centre, and with a swift low shot, looked like scoring, when Muir saved by throwing himself full length on the ground. In close following Taylor made a feeble attempt to score after some fine play by Gray and settle. Again danger threatened from the Albion right wing, Balmer being most ill at ease with the attack of Paddock and Perry. Boyle and Eccles however, were playing a superb game, and with the Throstles still pressing the game ended in a goalless draw.