Everton Independent Research Data
INJURY BOGY DOGS EVERTON
January 3, 1948. The Evening Express
Lose Tommy Jones in Six Minutes
Then Blackpool ‘Cash in’ On Improving Goals Record
Pilot’s Log
Everton suffered their heaviest defeat of the season when going down at Bloomfield-road today, to give Blackpool the “double.” But there was a concrete reason for they failure, apart from the excellent football played by Blackpool. Everton played 82 minutes with only ten men, for after six minutes and before a goal had been scored Tommy Jones was taken to the dressing room –with a bad injury to his right ankle. In two minutes after this Blackpool started their avalanche of goals. Everton took plenty of supporters to Blackpool but the chairman Dr. Baxter, was not present, so the ex chairman Mr. W.C. Gibbins, was in charge of the team, accompanied by Messrs R.E. Searle, J.S. Sharp, and H.R. Williams. Blackpool; Wallace, goal; Shimwell and Suart, backs; Johnston, Hayward and Kelly, half-backs; Matthews, Mortensen, McIntosh, Dick and Munro, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Farrell, Jones and Watson (captain), half-backs; grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fielding, and Higgins, forwards. Referee; Mr. R. Duerden, Lancaster.
Everton suffered a shock opening, being reduced to ten men in six minutes and two goals down in 15 minutes, both goals being scored by Dick, who has just regained his place in the Blackpool team. The Blues started promisingly enough, Grant centre being headed inside to Dodds before Grant forced a corner. Fielding’s long range effort was off the mark before Blackpool began to take charge, Johnston and Kelly prompting their forwards delightfully. Sagar dived among a crowd of players to dispose of Munro’s corner, and then when Jones went to tackle McIntosh at the sixth minute he injured his right ankle. Jones had to go off Watson going to centre half and Grant moving back to left half. Give Blackpool full credit for cashing in on their advantage immediately. They stormed the Everton goal but this times Dugdale put paid to Matthews’ raids and then Johnston slipped the ball far across to Munro. He ran to the line and midfield a choice centre to the unmarked Dick, who had time to pull the ball down and place it into the net from short range. This goal came in eight minutes, and Blackpool piled on the pressure, the Everton defence seemed somewhat bewildered by the speed of the home passing. It was common to see Everton defenders repeatedly doubling back and they had been led into false positions. For Matthews was getting no change at all out of young Dugdale. In 15 minutes a delicious through pass by Johnston saw Dick from the centre forward position move to his left, draw Sagar from goal and cleverly place the ball back into the corner of the net for a second goal. Mortensen sprang through with a grand shot, which flashed outside and then Matthews wandered to inside left to try a long range shot which however, only made a hole in the crowd. This Everton injury bogey was becoming almost too bad to be true, in no game this season have the Blues escaped with 11 sound men. And the lose of Jones seemed in knock all the heart out of them although goodness knows they tried hard enough.
Sagar’s Great Save
Wainwright made two galliant attempts to get through before the short pass by Matthews saw Mortensen head in at point blank range, Sagar making a brilliant save. Higgins out inside cleverly only to be crowded out and then Sagar wide down to hold low centres by Munro. However gallaint as were the Everton defenders they were cut to ribbons by the precision passing of his forceful Blackpool. At the 27th minute, McIntosh cleverly flicked the ball over the head of Watson and Mortensen run on to place into the net as Sagar run out on what was at the start a complete mission. Three goals down in 27 minutes against a side whose trouble this season has been that they could not score goals at home! One had to see this to fully appreciate what the loss of Jones really meant to Everton. Away forwards strove manfully, and Dodds glided the ball along lovely for Higgins to cut inside and left go a right foot shot. Wallace saved at full length, and then Sagar was injured after making brilliant catch off Matthews corner but was able to continue. Dodds was just off the mark before Blackpool had the luckiest escape in the world when Wainwright raced in after judicious feeding by Dodds. Higgins surprised everyone by kicking the ball out of Wallace’s hands towards goal but the goalkeeper dived back to save it just as it was rolling over the line. Away came Blackpool to make it four in 40 minutes. McIntosh had moved away from the main attack and when the ball came out to him he shot through a crowd of players. The ball touched an outstretched boot and rolled on into the corner of the net, Sagar unable to change directions in time. Everton’s cup of bitterness was still not full for while Jones was in the dressing room awaiting the arrival of the doctor, Watson was injured and resumed limping after attention. Four goals and three injured players, this was tough. Sea mist began to roll over the ground, and this seemed to be Everton’s one hope on this unhappy start to the New Year.
Half-time; Blackpool 4, Everton 0.
The mist turned to rain and if that didn’t end any slender hopes Everton had a fifth goal at 62 minutes did. Everton had played some nice football, Wainwright being brilliant in the way he tried to do work of two men on the right wing. When he burst away to inside left and slipped the ball back to Dodds whose quick right foot shot flashed in across goal. Wainwright then burst through at inside left, beating three men in turn, but he could not get the ball across because of weight of numbers. In 62 minutes Blackpool who had not looked dangerous made a winner of a throw-in near the corner flag. Munro doubled back to centre accurately beyond the far post, and Mortesen leapt high to head into the net. A choice low centre from Wainwright found Dodds had moved too far forward and although Higgins and Fielding both tried to ram home the ball, it struck defenders. Wainwright went through again Wainwright went through again and slipped the back to Fielding who instantly found himself tackled by three men and so could not get in a shot. Sagar made a fine save off Dick’s header before Dodds and Higgins went through at top speed, Hayward just managing to kick the ball off Dodd’s foot as he was about to place it into the net. Then Farrell’s full-powered shot struck Hayward on the head, and knocked him clean out, but he soon recovered. The tantalising part was that every time Dodds went for the ball the referee penalised him, whereas it was Hayward who should have been pulled up. Sagar came out to make a brilliant save at point blank range off Mortensen to put the seal of brilliant on this galliant Everton defence. Final; Blackpool 5, Everton 0.
EVERTON R. V. BLACKPBURN R
January 3, 1948. The Evening Express
Everton fielded a strong side and were soon on the offensive and Pinchbeck was unlucky on two occasions. The Rovers were up to this period outclassed, Humphreys being the mainstay of the home defence. In 28 minutes Everton went ahead through Pinchbeck. Gardner increased the score later. Half-time; Everton Res 2, Blackburn Res 0.
After resuming, Hayburst, the Blackburn keeper, saved from Pinchbeck and Stevenson. Stevenson increased the home lead with a great shot. Final; Everton Res 4, Blackburn Rovers Res 1.
Ellesmere Port v. Everton “A”
Everton was the dominating side, but their forwards were held up by a strong defence. Waring opened the home score from a fine centre by Jones. Half-time; Ellesmere Port, 1, Everton “A” 0.
A HAMMERING FOR EVERTON
January 3, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Tom Jones Hurt Early in Game
Blues’ Ten Men Overwhelmed
Biggest Blow
Blackpool 5, Everton 0
By Stork
An injury to Jones in six minutes was too big a handicap for Everton to shoulder. From the moment it practically became a matter between Everton’s defence and Blackpool’s attack. Despite the latter’s five guest the Everton defence stood up manfully against odds. Blackpool; Wallace, goal; Shimwell and Suart, backs; Johnston, Hayward and Kelly, half-backs; Matthews, Mortensen, McIntosh, Dick and Munro, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Farrell, Jones and Watson (captain), half-backs; grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fielding, and Higgins, forwards. Referee; Mr. R. Duerden, Lancaster. Everton were in search of away points at Bloomfield Road today. Not since they won at Middlesbrough in October have they scored a victory on foreign turf. In the matter of points and goals Blackpool and Everton are very close together with neither side claiming to be prolific scorers. There was no change in either side, which is uncommon these days, and there was a fair crowd to see the opening exchanges. Everton made a bid for a quick goal and Blackpool replied with an advance on the left, which produced a corner from which Sagar made a good catch from Munro. The danger was cleared for a second or two but Blackpool came back and Mortensen was not far off the mark with a nice effort.
Blow for Everton
Dugdale and Matthews were soon at grips and the young Everton full back came out of the duel with credit but immediately afterwards Everton suffered one of the worst blows possible for they lost the services of T.G. Jones who suffered a leg injury and had to go to a dressing room. It was while Jones was off that Blackpool secured the opening goal. It was a lovely movement that sent them on their post quest for five man, particularly in it before Dick got through to score at eight minutes. Everton reorganised their forces. Watson went centre-half and Grant to left half, and they felt the full weight of the Blackpool attack which was, at this point cutting its way through with precision-like passes. Matthews and Johnston played no small part in their success. The disorganised Everton defence had not had trifle to gather its forces and at 14 minutes further damage befell Everton, for Dick went through to score a second a second goal. McIntosh made the pass and Dick cleverly beat Sagar, who had run out and then steered the ball into the empty net. Blackpool were rampant and Everton had to put in some sound defence to prevent further goals.
Will o’ the Wisp
Matthews was a real will-o-the-wisp, and from the inside left position, he made one shot which sped like an arrow just outside the upright. Mortensen with his quick-silver darts was ever a menace and he made one great header from a Matthews pass which Sagar only just managed to stop. The trouble for Everton was not over and at 28 minutes McIntosh made a forward pass to Mortensen who ran through and flicked the ball beyond Sagar and into the net. Of the few attacks which Everton were able to make Wallace made a fine save from a shot by Higgins, but the Pool were soon back on the attack. Munro with a long sweeping centre, dropped the ball just under the Everton cross-bar, but Sagar was just able to get away. Towards the interval in an Everton attack Dodds made a shot which travelled wide. It was immediately after this that Blackpool got that fourth goal through McIntosh, whose shot appeared to strike someone left foot. At all events it landed in the net. I hear that Tommy Jones has twisted his right ankle and it is problematic whether he will resume.
Half-time; Blackpool 4, Everton 0
Jones did not appear with his colleagues for the second half. Nevertheless Everton opened with an attack but it was short liven and Blackpool were soon hammering the Everton defence. Matthews with a long cross from the right offered McIntosh a chance to head a goal, but Sagar fouled him, and when Mortensen flashed through –how this fellow can dart –he was pulled up only just in time. When Dodds got a ball out on the right he tried one of his Shamrock Rovers shots. It had the power, but not quite the direction but it showed that Everton with a full complement would have had a much greater say in the run of the game. Higgins, for instance had to be carefully looked after on one occasion when he threatened trouble for Wallace but Blackpool with their attack not covered due to Jones absence framed an attack which produced a fifth goal. Munro dropped across a centre which simply called out to be nodded into the net and Mortensen did it. Time 62 minutes. Wainwright centred to Dodds who however, could not gather the ball as it passed by, and Hayward simply kicked clear and sent Blackpool off again.
Grand Save
Mortensen hit the side netting and then McIntosh from an angled position force Sagar for a grand save. Everton, although so heavily in arrears’ had no intention of giving up and they attacked with a heartiness that was pleasing even though their prospect of beating down the Blackpool defence were decidedly small. After Mortensen had headed wide, Wainwright tried to find Dodds. He did so but the former Blackpool centre was well covered and was unable to get in his shot. Sagar made a save low down and then Higgins went through but Dodds again surrounded Farrell went up amongst the forwards and shot fiercely to the far side of the goal. Finally Everton got a corner.
Galliant Display
Sagar had played splendid. In fact the Everton defence as a whole must be given credit for a galliant display against adversity. Mortensen gave Sagar a nasty one to deal with but at this point much of the fire had gone out of Blackpool, they perhaps thought five goals were enough. At all events Mortensen made one feeble attempt at a shot which normally he would have probably crashed to the back of the net. This he hooked tamely to Sagar’s hands. Almost with the final whistle Mortensen bounded through, and seemed a certain scorer, but shot straight at Sagar. Final; Blackpool 5, Everton 0.
• Liverpool drew 0-0 with Stoke City.
CUP BLOW FOR EVERTON
January 5, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
Jones Doubtful for Grimsby Match
By Stork
Blackpool 5, Everton 0
It is almost certain that Tom Jones will be unable to play for Everton in the cup-tie at Grimsby on Saturday. His early injury in this game –a twisted ankle –makes him a very doubtful starter. Jack Humphreys played in the Central League side at Goodison Park and may be fit to take over his fellow Welsh international. Everton virtually started with ten men. Only six minutes had gone when Jones, in a clash with McIntosh suffered a bad twist of his right ankle and a lip injury. Jones left the field and did not return and whatever chances Everton had were reduced to a minimum. Blackpool played beautiful football and the reorganised Everton side was forced in the defence. With three forwards there was little hope for Everton to break down the Blackpool defence. It was too much to expect. Two goals in fourteen minutes was only the beginning of Blackpool’s greatness, Matthews is still the greatest footballer the world has ever known. Young Dugdale fared no worse against this magician than many others with greater experience.
Great Goal
The first goal emanated from Matthews, but it was five-point affair. Practically the whole forward line and half-back Johnston passed and passed again until finally Dick got his chance. With Jones absent there was a pathway down the middle and Blackpool exploited it to the full. With speed and accurate combination they overwhelmed the Everton defence. When Dick snapped up a past by McIntosh and beat Sagar to finally slip the ball into the empty net, one began to wonder what the final result would be. Mortensen’s speed enabled him to nip in and, with a side flick turn the ball into the Everton goal at twenty-eight minutes. Five minutes before half-time when McIntosh shot, Sagar had the ball covered but it struck Saunders on the leg and was diverted a yard –sufficient to put Sagar out of position. In the second half rampant Blackpool forwards would not be checked and Mortensen standing at the far post scored a neat goal from Munro’s centre. That was the conclusion of the scoring but there were more simple chances scorned. Mortensen missed two –one due to Sagar –which normally be would have taken. Blackpool; Wallace, goal; Shimwell and Suart, backs; Johnston, Hayward and Kelly, half-backs; Matthews, Mortensen, McIntosh, Dick and Munro, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Farrell, Jones and Watson (captain), half-backs; grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fielding, and Higgins, forwards. Referee; Mr. R. Duerden, Lancaster.
• Everton Reserves beat Blackburn 4-1.
• Ellesmere Port 1, Everton “A” 1
• Knowsley 0, Everton Colts 7
EVERTON’S BAD LUCK
January 5, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton were out of the Blackpool game from the moment of Jones’s departure with an ankle injury after six minutes for, to be deprived by a centre half against a team with a Mortensen and a Matthews in the attack is almost able to taking away the rudder of a ship. Therefore they can be excused for their heavy defeat. All Everton could hope to do was defend with might and main, and this they did although that die was heavily loaded against them. That they kept the score down to five was somewhat of a triumph for Blackpool played lovely football somewhat reminiscent of their war-time greatness and having built up a five goal lead played as though they were perfectly satisfied and were content to rest on their oars. (writes Stork). Such chances as came their way in the second half, when they did almost as they liked. Those who prefer Finney to the greatest of all soccer magicians had only to see Matthews perform to have changed their minds, for Stan was perfection and was more of a team man in this game than an individualist. That role was left to Mortensen. Gordon Dugdale told me some times ago that he would like to get his skill against the “wizard” with experience at the back of him, I asked Gordon what he thought about Matthews. This was his reply. “A marvellous player. He does not need to work at the ball –he knows where it is, so he keeps his eye on you.” Nevertheless Dugdale adjourn his tilt at the gresto. Mortensen was the individualist, for he was hardly a ink but what speed off the mark. His first goal was due to his amazing acceration which took him to the ball before Sagar could get there, but the forward line as a whole was well nigh perfect and ably backed up by progressive half-backs of whom Johnston was outstanding –England could do worse than pick the Johnston, Mortensen wing on nice. One of Blackpool’s goals stands but for it followed one of the most lovely movements I have seen for an age. The ball was carried right across field by five players before Dick sent it into the net. Need I say that Matthews had a hand in it. Higgins is filling the outside left portion with satisfaction. He almost brought about the downfall of the Blackpool goal with a shot that Wallace was content to pal down and out. Some said the ball was over the line. The Blackpool Press stand is not the best for seeing goalmouth incidents especially on gloomy days such as we had on Saturday. So I won’t be emphatic.
HUMPHREYS FIT FOR GRIMSBY CUP-TIE
January 5, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
The loss of international centre-half Tommy Jones on the eve of the F.A. Cup-ties is a sad blow to Everton, but there is still a brighter side to the picture as effecting next Saturday’s match at Grimsby. Jack Humphreys another Welsh international, and Tommy Eglington, Irish international, are fit again, Jones may be on the injured list for a long time for at Blackpool on Saturday, on Saturday he injured the right ankle side so that war time injury which kept him inactive so long. The exact extent of the damage is not known, but Tommy was under treatment for nearly two hours at Goodison on Saturday night after the return from Blackpool and Everton will not hesitate to place Tommy under a specialists. Humphreys has had several games with the reserve and has come through okay, so while Everton directors, like those of Liverpool, do not meet until tomorrow evening to select their Cup team. It is certain that Humphreys will play at Grimsby. Lucky that Everton have two such great players for this one berth, and this present position emphasise how wise were the club rulers in not parting with either. A nice situation the Blues would have been in had they let either Jones or Humphreys go. Eglington came through Saturday’s run with the Reserves all right without unduly extending himself, but Alex Stevenson who scored three goals, was injured again before the end.
Wanted to Play
Tommy Jones was having attention at the touchline at Bloomfield-road when the first of Blackpool’s five winning goals went in, and when later in the dressing-room he heard the cheers greet the second goal he asked to go back on the field just to fill a position. Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly, who was there as ever so zealously ruling the Everton team, went to the dressing room with Jones and said to me later! “Tommy could hardly hobble and yet he would have gone back on the field had I said yes. That typifies the spirit of our lads, just as the injury shows the ill-luck you run against. Jones never has played better than in the last few weeks, and now it may be weeks before he plays again. Thank goodness we have such a grand lad as Jack Humphreys to step in again.” Everton were beaten by a brilliant Blackpool side, and but for the gallantry of the defence it might have been by ten goals. At the same time Everton put up a fighting display which thrilled. How those lads did work to overcome their handicap. No wonder the home supporters cheered them on to get a goal. On such a day one could not criticise but merely say “Well done everyone.” The far-seeing Sagar, I thought did a great tactical move to save the legs of over-worked defenders and which stamped him as a master-mind and real clubman. Sagar insisted on coming out to take every free kick even yards beyond the penalty area. It was a little thing in its way but so helpful to the team as a whole. This was just one of those days which can be written off the ledger.
EVERTON’S TASK
January 6, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
In having to tackle Grimsby Town at Grimsby, Everton have a rather difficult obstacle to surmount more especially so in view of the absence of Jones. The club however, are fortunate to have Humphreys fit again, and he will step into the breach. The Fisherman are expecting a lean time this season, and so far have gained only 15 points from 25 League matches, and have registered only 10 goals in 13 home games. Like Liverpool, the Everton players will have ordinary training at home.
EVERTON
January 6, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
At Bellefield which the Everton club is fast creating into one of the finest sports grounds in the north of England, I found Everton having a full “rehearsal” under the eye of Trainer Harry Cooke. This was an eleven a-side practise but with no tackling, and the teams blended cleverly, the Blues attack of Mcllhatton, Wainwright, Dodds, Fielding and Higgins, being opposed by Farrell-Humphreys-Watson, half-backs. Jackie Grant was not present for he is still working, while injured lads like Tommy Jones and Alex Stevenson were absentees. Definitely Humphreys and Eglington are absolutely fit again and Tommy even survived a dive through the “ropes” over the floor-covering as he went to retrieve the ball. Mcllhatton showed few signs of his recent cartilage operation. I had my first view of the well-built Pinchbeck, who certainly shaped like a “gold un” in this so valuable trial in which speed in passing is the essential. There can be nothing for producing accuracy of ball distribution at high pace, Everton will work at Goodison Park tomorrow, and then go back to Bellefield on Thursday’s morning to complete the preparation.
EVERTON TWO CHANGES
January 7, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Apart from the obvious recall of Humphreys in place of the injured Jones, Everton’s only change for the game at Grimsby is the return of Irish International Tommy Eglington who displaces Higgins on the left wing. Eglington has been out of the side since December 20 and Humphreys of course has not played since his injury in the Burnley game on November 15. The team is;; Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Farrell, Humphreys, Watson; Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fielding, Eglington.
Latest news of Tom Jones is that while his ankle is badly swallow, there is no indication of any broken bones.
Everton Reserves have no game on Saturday but the “A” team meet New Brighton Reserves at Goodison Park in the third round of the Liverpool challenge cup, the fixture having 2.30 not 2.45 as advertised. Team; Jones (JA); Hedley, Ireland; Griffiths, Falder, Dunroe; Owen, Cooks, Pinchbeck, Lello, Brazier.
EVERTON WANT TO BE CLLED THE ‘TOFFEES’
January 8, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton are to make an all-out effort to bring sentiment back into steam-lined 1948 football. Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly is of the opinion that football was more closely linked with the public when clubs were known by their nicknames, and he wants Everton in future to be known as the “Toffees” or “Toffee Boys.” There is much to be said for Mr. Kelly’s desire for in the old days everyone knew Everton as the “Toffees” whereas the more modern name of Blues does not necessarily identify Everton. Blues is the name used by Birmingham City, and some other clubs wearing blue. “I should like everyone in football to refer to Everton as the “Toffees” said Mr. Kelly. “It is the traditional name of the club just as that of Pensioners is to Chelsea and Gunners is to Arsenal. Why should we forget these old names which, after all, breathe the very spirit of football. While we must necessarily move with the times, let us not break all the links with the glorious past. Bring back the old names which after all breathe the very spirit of football. While we must necessarily with the time, let us not break all the links with the glorious past. Bring back the old name to give a touch of tradition to a modern setting. Let the cry of our supporters at Grimsby on Saturday be “Up the Toffee.” It is curious that so many old nicknames have died out while some have survived the years. In this class, apart from Arsenal and Chelsea, can be placed Liverpool (The Reds), Tottenham Hotspurs (The Spurs), Bolton Wanderers (Trotters), Bury (The Shalkers), Derby County (The Rams), Notts County (The Lambs), Brentford )The Bees), and Cardiff City (The Bluebirds). We can carry on with Coventry City (The Peepers), Hull City (The Tigers), Leeds United (The Peacocks), Leicester City (The Knuts), Luton Town (Hatters), Millwall (The Lions), Sheffield United (The Blades), the Wednesday (The Owls), Southampton (Saints), Stoke City (Potters), West Bromwich Albions (Throstles), while in Scotland they have some curious but likeable names such as Clyde (Bully West), Ary United (Honest Men), Arbroath (Red Lichties), Aberdeen (Dons), and so on, yes there is a lot in traditional names so let us co-operate in the Everton urge to bring the old revival.
HAT-TRICK BID
January 9, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton at Blundell Park against Grimsby Town, will make a bid for a hat-trick of cup wins over the Fisherman. In 1931 the “Toffees” beat Town 5-3 at Goodison Park and in 1935 they won 6-3 at Goodison. Even if they do not make it a “three-timers” tomorrow I feel quite confident that I shall see the Everton survive. Grimsby are bottom of the First Division, although that is no guilde in the Cup. Grimsby’s main trouble has been lack of goal-scoring forwards and so with the Everton defence so sound I doubt Town’s ability to stage a forward revel. In attack Everton hold the balance with their clever combinations of the short and long game, and if they escape the injury “bogy” I think Everton can advance to the length stage at the first time of asking. Grimsby Town who had hoped to field the side beaten by Sunderland are completed to make a change in the centre-half position owing to injury. Blenkinsopp twisted a knee shortly before half-time last Saturday, and hopes entertained of him being able to play were dispelled yesterday when he failed to pass a fitness test. Taylor (R.) regular centre half in the early part of the season, who lost his place after injury, is recalled as pivot. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Farrell, Humphreys, Watson; Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fielding, Eglington. Grimsby; Tweedy; Sibley, Fisher; Galley, Taylor (P), Reeve (Fred); Burnett, Whitheld, Briggs, Cairns, Wardle.
EVERTON’S CHANCES
January 9, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
If Everton visit to Grimsby was a League encounter, I should be inclined to forecast victory outright. Is a cup-tie anything can happen and while I’m still hopeful of a win a draw would be a useful performance. As with Nottingham Forest, we must ignore Grimsby’s poor League record. Cast your mind back, and you’ll recollect that more often than not some of the loveliest clubs have a good cup run. If League standing determined cup progress much of the thrill would depart from the various rounds. Everton are fortunate to have a pivot of the capability of Humphreys to take Tommy Jones place, and there will be no difficulties at defensive solidarity through the enforced change. Cairns is the man Everton will have to watch most closely even though he has not latterly been getting goals with his earlier frequency. In attack the Blues will have more punch now that Eglington is fit again and on the opposite wing Grant is not only dovetailing man the scheme of things beautifully but has been getting goals with encouraging regularity. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Farrell, Humphreys, Watson; Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fielding, Eglington.
EVERTON THROUGH
January 10, 1948. The Evening Express
‘Toffees’ Sparkle After Dull Spell
Wainwright Inspires Dodds and Farrell
Pilot’s Points
Pilot’s Points Everton scored a great F.A. Cup victory against Grimsby Town at Blundell Park after an indifferent first half, during which Town should have made certain of the tie. After grand Everton defence work their forwards cut the Grimsby defence to ribbons, and even after Wainwright’s opening goal had been equalised by Whitefield’s. Everton revealed such great fighting spirit that they were ahead again in the space of two minutes. Then the mighty Sagar stepped into the breach with the two wonder saves, to break the heart of Grimsby. Dodds and Wainwright scored in the space of a minute as Everton literally walked through the Grimsby defence. The game had everything from thrills good football, to fine goals, and Everton’s great skill and staying powers were reflected in the results. A hard game became easy to a fine team which had to be reshuffled just before the game because of an injury to Dugdale. Many Everton supporters made the journey, some travelling throughout the night and others coming by early morning motor-coach. The ground was soft on top, but had drained well following heavy overnight rain. Grimsby Town;- Tweedy, goal; Sidley and Fisher, backs; Galley, Taylor and Reeve (Fred), half-backs; Burnett, Whitfield, Briggs, Cairns, and Wardle, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Watson, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys, and Farrell, half-backs; Farrell, Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fieldings, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. A.E. Ellis (Halifax).
Strangely enough, Everton got the better reception from the 25,000 spectators, and straight away Grant robbed Fisher and tried to find Dodds. But the opening raid by Wardle was much more dangerous until Fielding double-backed to take command.
Chance Missed
Burnett gained a corner off Watson and from this the Town should have scored, for Cairns had all the time in the world to place his shot. But he tapped if across for Briggs to crash in from a yard, Watson managing to baulk the ball, which shot high into the air before being whisked away for another corner. The Town kept hammering away at the “Toffee” defence, which was bewildered and haphazard. Grimsby were exceptionally fast on the ball and Wardle went to the corner flag, where he was fouled, Sagar dealing easily with the free kick.
At last Eglington got across a centre too fast for Grant, but back came Briggs with a fast run, to outwit Humphreys for a corner. From this Briggs shot well, but Saunders got the ball away. It was a scrambling defence, but effective. Sagar held a fast one from Burnett before Humphreys overlooked Briggs in thrilling fashion. The Toffees wasted a free kick before Humphreys tried to let one ball run dead, only to be surprised by Briggs so that the ball was whipped across to Burnett, who shot over on the volley. Grimsby had been the masters of the opening quarter, and with semblance of accuracy in front of goal must have gone ahead. Nothing had been seen of the Everton attack. At last Fieldings, Dodds and Grant participated in a promising raid, but Grant’s centre was deflected over. Away came the Town to force another corner, of which Sagar took charge. Wardle ran the legs off the Everton defence without making real progress, but when he lost the ball Cairns back heeled it, to give Whitfield a gilt-edged chance. It was the quick intervention of Humphreys which prevented a goal. Grant then almost snatched the lead for Everton, for he surprised Fisher in the penalty area, but just could not turn quickly enough to slip the ball past Tweedy. Fisher dashed over to kick clear as Wainwright tried to burst through and then Tweedy came out to fist away an Eglington centre as Everton gradually began to come into the game.
Delayed Too Long
Neat heading between Fielding and Eglington saw Town worried, but Grant delayed his centre too long, and the ball went over the dead line. Dodds went on from Fielding’s pass to burst into the penalty area, only for his shot to go outside, and when Watson fouled Wardle the winger threw the ball at Watson, and was admonished by the referee. Sagar was there to fist away the free kick, and then Everton had two close-up free kicks, which found Tweedy in the right spot. Tweedy next drew applause when he leapt upwards and outwards to make a wonder catch off a goal laden centre from Eglington. We had a thrill in the Press-box when Reeves booted the ball among us, but there were no casualties. It was good to see Fielding have a shot even if it was off the mark. Everton had not been having a go. This half had not shown Everton up in a good light for defensive covering and Town could count themselves unfortunate not to be in front. Dodds got Eglington away and Tweedy came out to smother the low centre as Grant ran in to connect. Eglington then returned the compliment but Dodds right footer from 18 yards went right out of the ground. It was a snap effort which might have come off. Wainwright won a corner from which Eglington shot in along the ground, Sibley kicking it off the goal line.
Half-time; Grimsby Town 0, Everton 0
A grand run by Fielding opened the second half, and then Tweedy took the ball right off the head of Dodds. Dodds and Eglington opened the way for Grant to cut in and shoot low, Tweedy diving to smoother the ball. This was a different Everton from the one we saw in the first half, for they were using the cross field pass cleverly, and had speeded up considerably and had speeded up considerably. Fielding went on with a shot which curled wide. The Toffee kept right on top of their job against a Grimsby unable to cope with quick passing movements. After 51 minutes, Wainwright gave Everton the lead. It was the enterprise of Grant in taking a quick throw-in which did the trick. Dodds hooking the ball across for Wainwright to bring it down with his chest move two yards forward, and glide the ball low into the far corner from close range. You could see Grimsby wilt visibly and Everton came right on top again Taylor just beating Dodds. It was in the 60th minute that Everton lost their lead to a brilliant goal by Whitfield. Everton had been cutting out the work when Wardle flashed across a fast centre from the left, and Whitfield leapt up to head into the top corner from a dozen yards. Sagar having no possible chance. The fighting spirit of Everton was reflected that within two minutes they had regained the lead through Farrell –Peter’s second goal for Everton since he joined the club. Wainwright was fouled just outside penalty area and Grimsby formed a barrier to Farrell’s 20 yards free kick. Farrell shot at the barrier and the ball touched Taylor and flashed into the net to the left of Tweedy who had moved to the right. Time 62 minutes. Dodds and Fielding made a galliant attempts to increase the lead before Watson cleared splendidly from the dangerous Whitfield. It was Sagar alone who saved Everton when Wardle let go a full volley from 20 yards. The ball was skidding into the net when Sagar flung himself to the foot of the post, to turn it round –an amazing save. The Everton forwards went across to pat Sagar’s back. The save was worth a goal, and so was another when Ted dived at the feet of Whitfield two yards from goal.
A Grand Save
Then Tweedy came to Grimsby’s rescue with a grand one-handled save off a Dodd’s pile-driver which was going home. Dodds worked his way into the penalty area and turned the ball back for Grant to hook over. In 78 minutes Dodds placed the Goodison boys in a nice position, for he cleverly flicked though a pass from Eglington and almost went mad with delight. Two minutes later Eglington ran right up the goal line, and slipped the ball back along the ground for Wainwright to score a fourth, and send Everton into the fourth round. Eglington was brilliant and now he again kept Sibley standing, only to be touched over as he went to shoot. Dodds hit one on the drop and the ball skidded outside. Everton did not let up for a second but proceeded to show Grimsby that there was no fluke about their win. Bentham was in the wards again for the third time, but came back full of fight to create the impression that Everton must not be forgotten when we are trying to find cup winners. A grand show Everton You all did splendidly. Final; Grimsby Town 1, Everton 4
• Everton “A” 4, New Brighton Res 0
SECOND HALF FIREWORKS BY EVERTON
January 10, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Final Two Goals Scored in One Minute
Farrell’s Great Free Kick
Grimsby Town 1, Everton 4
By Stork
A fine win –Grimsby’s shoot tactics did not bring the needed game, but it took some brilliant defence to thwart them. Finally Everton’s pressure caused the Town defence in crack –two goals in a minute. A victory well won by combined efforts. Grimsby Town;- Tweedy, goal; Sidley and Fisher, backs; Galley, Taylor and Reeve (Fred), half-backs; Burnett, Whitfield, Briggs, Cairns, and Wardle, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Watson, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys, and Farrell, half-backs; Farrell, Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fieldings, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. A.E. Ellis (Halifax). Grimsby was in a fever over the cup-tie with Everton at Blundell Park, and all tickets were taken up immediately, so that there would be a capacity crowd. Yesterday the ground was under water, but it had been so well forked that it looked in good condition at lunch-time. Last time I was here they were shovelling ice the pitch. There was a last-minute change in the Everton man. Gordon Dugdale travelled with the team yesterday but was limping as a result of his toss at Blackpool last week, when he injured his hip. It was decided not to take any risks in so important a match, so Gordon Watson dropped back to left back. Farrell crossed over to his original position on the left, and Bentham came in at right half. Grimsby also made a chance Blenkinsopp suffering from a heavy cold gave away to Taylor at centre half.
Lively Start
There was a lively start, for Everton immediately attacked Grimsby were not found wanting and from the clearance they set up such a hot attack that the Everton defence was soon on the collar. The Grimsby attack worked speedily and very much together. A Cairns shot was clearly but Briggs took it up and Watson, standing on the goal line, kicked clear when all seemed lost. Another Briggs shot looked a certainty for goal until Saunders –sprang up and headed out. Everton had little chance to attack but one round of passing deserved a better fate the final centre passing over to waiting Everton inside men. Having held off Grimsby’s shock tactics Everton started to do things and by nice combination took play in Grimsby quarters but there were no calls on Tweedy. On the other hand Sagar in handle a Burnett effort from the wing and Cairns tried a shot which slewed off his boots to pass very much wide of the goal.
Grand Chance
Fielding and Dodds tried to make an opening and although the Everton winger got in his centre it passed over. Whitfield had a grand opportunity but foolish shot wide. Fielding with a wide pass over to Eglington set the Grimsby people wondering for the Irishman put the ball bang in front of goal, Grant and Taylor had little duel on their own before the Grimsby man tapped the ball back in Tweedy. I rated this a possible chance for Grant. Everton were now getting their teeth into the game, and the Town had simmered down somewhat. Tweedy got there just in time to punch the ball off Dodds head Grant took up Dodds far-flung cross right on the line. He pulled the ball back and Wainwright coming up a great speed shot outside. Grimsby had missed three “possibes” and had taken a lot put of themselves. Everton on the other hand were coming to themselves and Tweedy had to dive out to an Eglington centre.
Box of Tricks
Wardle was a box of tricks but the Everton defence did not give an inch, although often severely tested. Fielding worked his way through but did not but his full power into his shot –neither was the direction right. Eglington, running on to a pass from Dodds, hit the ball with great power and accuracy, but Tweedy was not to be beaten in that way, he had advanced to close down the angle and bounced on the ball. Near the interval Grant was Eglington collaborated to make a chance for Dodds. The Everton centre forward however shot hurriedly and the ball went yards over Everton fans expected something better and should have had it. Everton were playing strongly and almost on half-time Sibley kicked an Eglington effort off the goal line. Half-time Grimsby nil, Everton Nil.
Grimsby opened the second half with an attack on the right, which was cut short by Farrell’s determined work. An Everton thrust brought out a save by Tweedy from Eglington –a high centre and a long ground shot from Grant. Everton had now got the measure of Grimsby.
First Goal
Fielding opened a way and Dodds carried on the good work with a nice ball to Grant. The winger closed in and appeared to be pushed as he was striding along to what might have been a goal. However, a goal was not long delayed, for at 61 minutes, Everton took the lead. It all came from a throw in by Grant. Dodds lobbed the ball over to Wainwright who, although angled swept it into the net well wide of Tweedy. It was a staggering blow to the Grimsby folk, who had been calling for one; but not against Fielding after cleverly getting the ball under control pushed the ball out to Eglington, who, however, did not get enough loft on the ball, and it went to a defender. It was an exceptionally hard game, and the Town’s spirits were lifted when Whitfield steered at 60 minutes. His header from Wardle’s centre was a peach. The thrills continuing, and when Everton were awarded a free kick for a foul on Wainwright, Farrell scooped the ball over the line of defenders and, with Tweedy moving to his right, the ball dropped to his left and into the net. Time, 63 minutes. Grimsby were still full of fight and Sagar had to make an amazing save to prevent Wardle marking up the equaliser. The Everton keeper made another save, when diving at the feet of Bunrett. Humphreys and his colleagues have never put in better work than this, for the Town attack was still a menace. Dodd’s made one fiery drive which Tweedy turned over his bar. Grimsby found their way barred time and again by sterling defence, whereas their defence was being riddled time and again. Eglington provided Dodds with a beautiful pass which the Scot neatly slipped into the net (75 minutes), one minute later Eglington provided another centre from which Wainwright scored. Everton were now dangerous every time they advanced, and Dodds was not far off with a shot from Grant’s pass. Dodd’s almost took another Grimsby never gave up trying, but Everton were completely in command. Final; Grimsby 1, Everton 4.
SURVIVED EARLY SHOCKS
January 12, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton’s Defence’s Part
By Stork
Grimsby Town, 1 Everton 4
Why did a side which promised much in their first-half display fall to such depths that they were ultimately rendered impotent and made to look a decidedly poor team? The things of age was probably the root cause. Older members of the side could not raise a gallop when Everton got into their stride. There were weary Grimsby legs and bellows to mend” long before the end. Before they were completely snuffed out Grimsby had given Everton cause for anxiety. For half an hour they were like greyhounds and before Everton had settled down they promised to hit them damaging blows. Everton supporters, could not help but visualise a healthy. Apart from their great pace Grimsby brought much “grey matter” to bear, and the Everton defence has never been called upon to weather such a fierce storm. Such shock tactics could have paid a high dividend had Grimsby’s finishing seen on a par with their approach work, but it was not and Everton survived many perilous moments.
Took The Weight
But before the interval Everton showed signs that they had “taken the weight” of the opposition. Not until 51 minutes did Everton assert their superiority with a goal, which had its starting point was a Grant throw-in which Wainwright cleverly slipped beyond Tweedy, despite the awkward angle. Within nine minutes Grimsby had equalised with a bonny headed goal by Whitfield. One naturally expected Town to become a rejuvenated force, but they had shot their bolt. They had no answer to the brilliant football produced by their rivals. Under pressure they could not master the intricate produced by Everton’s forwards and the longer the game progressed the more apparent it became that victory would be Everton’s portion. There was nothing to stop them, for the Town from being a live collection, were now a thing of shreds and patches. It was a complete turnabout, when Farrell restored the lead with a free kick, that was deflected beyond Tweedy, the match was as good as won. Everton were riding comfortably and with all the confidence in the world.
Eglington Speed
Eglington used his speed to such devastating effect that he left Sibley flat-footed to produce the centre from which Dodds flicked the ball beyond Tweedy for the third goal, and then Wainwright snapped on a pass from Fielding to mark up number 4. In such a victory it would be difficult to angle out any one player for praise. It was sound team work which made victory possible. I think that it was the defence in the first place which broke the hearts of the Town attack. Grimsby Town;- Tweedy, goal; Sidley and Fisher, backs; Galley, Taylor and Reeve (Fred), half-backs; Burnett, Whitfield, Briggs, Cairns, and Wardle, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Watson, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys, and Farrell, half-backs; Farrell, Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fieldings, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. A.E. Ellis (Halifax).
GREAT DEFENCE, THEN –
January 12, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Never has the Everton defence battled so courageously –and it has done some fine work this season –without suffering a damaging blow. For twenty minutes the Grimsby forwards were encamped to the Everton penalty area, but the “Toffee” defenders would, now yield an inch to the attack, which levelled its heavy shots at their attack. Three minutes were the testing point, for Everton. If they could come out unshaved I had no fear for them (write Storks). They came through with flying colours yet for all that the Town should have scored with opportunities at their disposal. Twice they came within an inch of landing the ball in the net, and it was only brilliant cover which saved the Everton goal. First Watson full back to clear a shot that had goal written all over it then Saunders did, something similar and Cairns missed from a glorious position. Words of mine cannot pay full tribute to the work of Humphreys and his co-partners. They were magnificent for make no mistakes. Grimsby strudel there blows ad they were mighty blows – before the Everton defence had become settled. A goal or two then would have set Everton a tremendous task. It was grim work subduing those rampant –Fishermen but the Everton defence saved this one at a little when Grimsby were making their efforts. They will not be called upon to show a solid front in ably future game. What would the Town defence do when they were asked the question? The answer comes “pet” They cracked and crashed. A team that cannot travel the full 90 minutes can have little hope of success. Once Everton turned on the tap the Town defence collapsed. It was completely “blown out” It was often left flat-footed with no hope whatever of checking a team had got into full stream. A long throw-in by Grant to well inside the penalty area saw Wainwright pop in and but a first-timer to the back of the net. Nine minutes later Whitfield equalised but the expected Grimsby revived, did not materialise. They fell further behind, whereas Everton went from strength to strength and goals followed from Farrell –free kick which was deflected away from Tweedy – a neat Dodds flick from Eglington’s centre and finally another goal to Wainwright from Fielding pass.
GRIT AND SKILL
January 12, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
On this day of “how are the mighty fallen” with the two favourites Arsenal and Burnley not to lesser lights –Liverpool incidentally had a hand in Burnley’s downfall for George Kays and George Paterson, two ex-Anfielders were in Swindon’s team which has been built-up a Liverpool man, Mr. Louis Page –it was a delight to see Everton give an exhibition of grit and skill which drew generous praise from Grimsby chairman, Mr. George Pearo, and his colleagues, and also to find that the half-time scoreboard at Blundell was wrong when it announced Forest as winning at Anfield. This was an Everton of two distinct moods, each in its own particular way indicating trouble to all their cup rivals. To a certain extent it was a changed Everton, too. Gone was that of apparent easing up, once a lead had been established. This Everton forced home its advantage to the chagrin of Town. The two moods sent the Evertonians home delighted. The first was fighting defiance of a Grimsby who flung everything into attack for 30 minutes in the hope of crushing the “Toffee” by sheer weight of pressure. Then we saw the might of the Goodison defence with its intrepid intervention; tenacious tackling, resolute clearance; and complete covering. From the complete “stopper” machine Everton switched to delicate, rhythmic attack which blast wide the Grimsby defence at slowly but surely ripped it into shreds. Even when Whitfield wiped out Wainwright’s leading goal there was no Everton panic, but a relentless determination while restored the advantage per Farrell’s neatly-lobs free kicks. For a flash Grimsby fought like demons and it was than that Ted Sagar virtually won the tie with saves I shall never forget not because they were so spectacular, but because they were so vital. They broke the heart of Grimsby, and away went Everton to complete the victory goals from Dodds and Wainwright. Yes, it was Wainwright who got two and not Dodds. Eglington provided the first and Fielding the second, as fitting a left wing which brought back memories of the old Stevenson-Coulter days but in a different way. Everton produced various attacking plans, eventually settling down to the accuracy of the “scissors” pass to exploit grand wingers and enable Dodds to “kid” the life out of Town. Praise goes to each and every Everton player, and to single any one would be rather injust. I must just say, however, what a happy return had Bentham; that Gordon Watson did a great job as an emergency left-back and that to. Let us make this a tribute to a grand team of lads who paid Ted Sagar a great honour on Saturday night by going along to his native Thorpe again for “joint celebrations. “ It was Ted’s hour.
HOMELESS CUP-TIE GOES TO GOODISON
January 14, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
And United will Play in Red
By Leslie Edwards
The cup-tie without a home is homeless no longer. Liverpool and Manchester United will play their fourth round tie at Goodison Park, a truly magnificent prefabricated dwelling even for the match of the round. United will play in their normal colours, red, and Liverpool will change into white. Decision to take the match to Goodison Park came amicably after telephone talks between the respective boards last night. United reaction to choice of ground may have been influenced by the fact that they are playing so well. It had been suggested that if Liverpool had proposed taking the fixture to the North Pole, United would have agreed, because they feel so cock-a-hoop over their winning chances.
POISON PEN STABS AT PLAYERS
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 14 January 1948
Poison-pen letters sent to four Mill wall F.C. players have been handed to the police. The letters, posted in London, were nddressed to Ted Smith, Tom Brolly, Len Tyler and George Fisher. " The letters have come during the last three weeks," Mr Jack Cock. Millwall manager, said yesterday. " They are ghastly things, and must have been written by lunatic. " Normally we do not take any notice of anonymous letters, but the players have been so upset that I decided to report the matter."
PINCHBECK’S DEBUT
January 16, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Leads Everton Attack Against Derby
Ranger’s Notes
Clifford Pinchbeck, the 24-year-old centre forward whom Everton signed six weeks ago from Scunthorpe United, makes his debut in the senior side tomorrow, when he will lead the Everton attack against Derby County. Pinchbeck gets his chance through Jock Dodds and Harry Catterick having colds. His debut will be watched with particular interest but so far as Cup games are concerned Pinchbeck is “Cup-Tired” having played for Scunthorpe in the prelimary rounds. Like Dodds, Pinchbeck is strong and powerfully built. He stands just over 6 feet and weighs round about 13 stone and he has impressed with his promise to reserve team games since joining the Goodison side. Up to noon today there was a doubt whether Reich Carter, one of the key men of the Derby County side, would be fit. He had to miss the Cup-tie against Chesterfield last week owing to a pulled muscle, and when he had a test yesterday it gave him an occasional twinge. After a thoroughly try out this morning, however, Carter declared himself satisfied and will be in the side. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, Watson; Bentham, Humphreys, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Pinchbeck, Fielding, Eglington. Derby County; Townsend; Mosley, Howe; Antonia, Bentley, Musson; Harrison, Carter, Stamps, Steel, Morrison.
INCHBECK’S SENIOR DEBUT FOR EVERTON
January 16, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Cliff Pinchbeck’s the 23-year-old Yorkshire boy, who little more than a month ago was in Midland League Football, will make his Football League debut tomorrow, when he leads the Everton attack at Goodison Park against Derby County. Pinchbeck who is from “the Ted Sagar country,” and was secured by Everton from Scunthorpe United. Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly saw this 6ft lad twice, the last time in a cup-tie at Runcorn were believe it or not, Pinchbeck then moved to outside-right. That was on November 29, still here on January 17 Pinchback will face international Leuty. Reason for the change in the cup team is that Dodds is a victim of influenza – he was able to get up today but is still weak –and first choice deputy Harry Catterick the was the 12th man at Grimsby is in bed with influenza. Everton will have to fight hard to hold star-studded Derby with their £15,500 Billy Steel, but I think they will record their fifth successive home win. Not since losing to Burnley on November 15 have the Blues lost at Goodison. This game offers a terrific task, for Derby had the distinction of being the first team this season to defeat both Burnley and Arsenal. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, Watson; Bentham, Humphreys, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Pinchbeck, Fielding, Eglington. Derby County; Townsend; Mosley, Howe; Antonia, Bentley, Musson; Harrison, Carter, Stamps, Steel, Morrison.
WIZARDRY IN MUD AT GOODISON
December 17, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Derby Were Lucky with Two Goals
Home Defence Hard Pressed
New Centre Shone
Everton 1, Derby County 3
By Stork.
Admitting that Derby had great forward line it must be said that two of their goals were without doubt of the “fluky” vintage, for up to the scoring of the last two goals Everton had given as much as they had received. Carter and Steel however were brilliant, and to the Everton defences must go the laurels particular in the first half. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Watson, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys, and Farrell, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Pinchbeck, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Derby County; Townsend, goal; Mozley, and Howe, backs; Antonia, Leuty, and Musson, half-backs; Harrison, Carter, Stamps, Steel, and Morrison, forwards. Referee; Mr. H. Beary (Huddersfield). It was of great interest to Liverpool people to see Pinchbeck making his debut in the senior side. He has only been here a matter of weeks, yet here he is leading the famous Everton, and what a task he was set against the strength of Derby County, and Leuty in particular. He was the only change in the Everton team owing to Dodds and Catterick being laid low with heavy colds. Derby’s only alterations was Antonia for Ward. Antonio, of course, is the former Stoke City inside forward, who was making his first appearance in the half back line. The 30,000 people, brave souls they were, saw a lightning start, and almost a Derby goal in the first second. Steel and Carter between them worked an opening which prised open Everton defence, and allowed Carter to make one, of his famous drives. He found Sagar a barrier to success for the Everton goalkeeper made a wonderful save. At this point the County were sounding the Everton defence pretty severely and a defensive kick by an Everton man became a corner from which Morrison headed over. It now became Everton’s turn, and Pinchbeck with the first opportunity he got, made an impression among his followers. He beat his man before he finally shot against the side netting from a difficult angle. This was the forerunner to a sustained Everton attack, and Leuty had to watch Pinchbeck very carefully, when this big young man made an effort to brush his way through.
Miss by Wainwright
Eglington acting on one of the few clear spots, put across a rather low centre, and Wainwright, in his anxiety to turn it into a goal, missed the ball completely. But one could forgive errors under such circumstances. The County, although they did not have quite so much of the attack, were dangerous when they were anywhere near goal, but the goal they got in 16 minutes bore all the traces of good fortune. Morrison had put over a centre, and while I admit that Steel’s scoring position was a bonny one, I am certain that Sagar had the shot covered, but it struck Watson and was deflected right to the other side of the goal. Derby County’s football was entrancing. Their passing was often a puzzle to the Everton defence, which was playing quite well, but the County understanding was such that any defence could have been riddled by Derby’s clever moves. Carter and Steel were the key men in this football wizardly. Wainwright covered in mud, was ever on the lookout for a possible opening, one eventually came, and he went dashing through to goal and got in his shot, but it was turned away for a corner. Then at long last came an Everton goal, and the equaliser sent the boys and the remainder of the crowd roaring. It was a good goal, too, and it was Pinchbeck who supplied the pass from which Wainwright finally lobbed the ball over the advancing Townsend and it dropped comfortably into the Derby goal. All things considered the football on both sides had been excellent, and Sagar once again showed his brilliance when he turned aside an oblique by Harrison.
Half-time Everton 1, Derby County 1
Everton started the second half in promising fashion and after two tussles with the County defence Eglington ultimately broke through and was going at hot pace for what most people hoped would be a goal. Just as he was about to shoot he was tackled successfully by Howe, so that the looked for shot did not arrive. Carter like most of us, must have taker such a liking to Pinchbeck that he actually helped to keep him away from the ball. A free kick was automatic, and from this Fielding and Townsend had a race for the ball, with the goalkeeper winning. Naturally the pace of the first half could not be maintained, but the football was still there, and it was not all Derby County. In fact some of the Everton ball play was quite up to their opponents. The only difference was that Carter was such a crafty workman that it seemed as if he could make his way through any time he chose.
Pinchbeck’s “Flicks.”
Pinchbeck showed some Dodds flicks and he took all the watching that Leuty could give. He was only just beaten by a fraction of a second by the Derby centre half when he was a yard or two away from goal. Farrell was responsible for one intricate piece of work in defence which got his side out of a difficulty. The County got a second goal at 71 minutes and again there was a great slice of luck about it. A goal kick was the all-important starting point of the goal, Sagar put it right to the foot of Stamps just outside the penalty area, and the former New Brighton centre-forward crashed the ball into the net. Sagar simply stood and watched it as if flew by him. Four minutes later the same player scored again. This time it was Harrison who made the opening. Actually the County winger moved into make a fine shot to the right of Sagar, which the goalkeeper could not get to, and the ball crashed against the upright and rebounded back into play straight to Stamps, who again shot with power into the Everton net. Two such quick goals were enough to knock the heart out of any side. It certainly put more into the County who had for a time been well held by Everton. Occasionally Everton broke away but Townsend had nothing to worry about. Stamps completely missed the ball after Harrison had virtually put it on a plate for him. Just before the final whistle Farrell suffered a head injury and had to leave the field. Farrell was taken off the field on a stretchers. Final; Everton 1, Derby County 3. Attendances 51,766.
BLACKPOOL RESERVES V EVERTON RESERVES
January 17, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton were displaying good ball control of treacherous surface. After 15 minutes Jackson, gave them the lead from Higgins’s centre. The Blackpool forwards were halted several times by the offside trap. Half-time; Blackpool Res nil, Everton Res 1.
Everton were playing well to keep out repeated raids from the aggressive Blackpool forwards. Burnett was often in action, saving well from Rickett, Gifillan and McCall. Final; Blackpool Res 0, Everton Res 1
• Everton “A” 3, Prescot B.I 5
GOODISON WAS RICH IN INSIDE FORWARD PLAY
January 19, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Ernest Edwards (“Bee”)
Everton 1, Derby County 3
At a time when we weep over the lack of star inside forwards, let us give praise to four of the best. In order of merit; Steele, Carter, Wainwright, and Fielding. Each with individual ideas, differing methods but all with great subtlety. A pity, therefore, the referee delivered on Fielding the only cautionary note of an entrancing game. The crowd of 51,766 was unbelievable to one who studies such things. It makes certain that Goodison Park will hold 80,000 and has never been taxed to its capacity. The weather was appalling, making forwards the more praiseworthy when working the ball in mud-laden conditions. The opening bout by the G.O.M. of football. Carter, would have produced a record in quick scoring but for the alertness of Sagar. Add the touch of a new hand in Pinchbeck and a level pegging at the hour and this game had everything for which the spectators had yearned for months. If the crowd, had not been advised that Pinchbeck of Scunthorpe was making his league debut, they could have been forgiven thinking Dodds was operating down the middle, floating out to the wings, and dancing in lights fantastic manner. Pinchbeck in spite of his 6ft 1in and 13 stones was graceful, rigorously dashing, and astonished the people who thought fancy steps were the copyright of Dodds.
A Solid Win
Pinchbeck must beware that if the ball can be used without scissors-trickery it should be used the practical way. Lovely to look at the crowd does not forgive when the trick does not quite “come off” I am almost afraid to state how well Pinchbeck played last he fail to repeat it at a later date. He has strength will, ball control and terrific driving force apart from his shots. Derby County did not get on top until Sagar made a goal-kick goal possible –a unique one “direct” from Sagar who was not physically fit through having saved a Stamps drive. Derby threatened to lead so long it was no surprise to find them travel on to 3-1. Harrison’s shot struck the upright and Stamps, taking the return “pass” got his second goal. There was no disgrace in defeat. Everton had battled bravely and completely against a persistent and compelling attack, and fortune had not been theirs when Steel’s opening shot cannoned from Watson’s foot. Wainwright equalised and then a well-ordered Derby swept forward to victory by all-round competency guilded by the inner wheel of football’s fortune, Steel and Cater.
Impudence
Nothing in my football memory equals the dignity and impudence of two stanzas. Watson found his goalkeeper far away, received the ball on the goalline and with Harrison racing up to score, the Everton back executed one of his daintiest dribbling, feinting moves and cleared. The operative words; “On the goal-line” would that some forwards would emulate Watson’s sang froid on or near goal. That was impudence. The dignified setting of Carter and Steel was the feature. Carter many times used the negative “dummy” –he allowed the ball to travel on –a simple old fashioned notion and workable if the intent is known. Small unhurried Steel, weaving and worrying, made a great impression upon our minds. He is less of self today than he was at Anfield, hence an increased value to his side. Even Homer nodded. Steel made the miss of a century; This humanising incident helped to keep Derby from a “sweep” victory, even allowing for the fortuitous nature of two goals. Derby won worthily –the losers lost worthily and bravely. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Watson, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys, and Farrell, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Pinchbeck, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Derby County; Townsend, goal; Mozley, and Howe, backs; Antonia, Leuty, and Musson, half-backs; Harrison, Carter, Stamps, Steel, and Morrison, forwards. Referee; Mr. H. Beary (Huddersfield).
FARRELL INJURY IS X-RAY SECRET UNTIL TODAY
January 19, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Dr. Cecil Baxter, chairman of Everton F.C., told me last night that the club is anxiously awaiting today’s verdict on the X-ray examination of Peter Farrell’s jaw injury. Farrell sheet anchor Everton half-back, kicked in the face in the match against Derby County lost one tooth, had five others loosened, and at worst might have a fractured jaw. In this case of course, he would not be able to play in the Cup-tie at Wolverhampton.
BUT PINCHBECK PLEASES
January 19, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Brightest spot in a day when not a single Merseyside club registered a victory was the promising debut of Clifford Pinchbeck. Everton’s new centre forward from Scunthorpe United. Tall and beautifully built with a slightly mincing step reminiscent of Llew Ashcroft, Pinchbeck not only has physical attributes for the job but showed that he has much football talent as well. He has something to learn yet of course, and requires a bit of speeding up, but he did enough on Saturday –and against one of the finest pivots in the game –to prove that Everton have made a bargain. I liked the way he “killed” the bouncing ball and his attempts to open up the game on the comparatively few occasions he was in a position to do so. He will soon learn not to wait for the ball to come to him, which allowed Leuty to his round him so often but to go out towards it. He will also learn to position himself a little more namely as time goes on. As for his shooting the powerful shot he cracked up against the woodwork in the first few minutes showed that he can hit em while his header a few moments later was a real gem. While we shall have to wait before forming final judgement on this showing against such opposition on such a tricky surface. Pinchbeck more than satisfied. I think we shall be nearing and seeing a great deal about him in the future –and maybe not the very distant future either. Although Derby deserved to win they were a trifle fortunate in getting two grit goals, the first by Steel cannoning in off Watson and the second being prevented to Stamps on a platter when Humphreys misunderstood Sagar (S.O.S) to take a goal kick after the goalkeeper had been laid out, and Sagar could only put the ball as Stamps feet on the edge of the penalty area. Against this, however we must remember the times when grand Derby shots just missed the target by a yard or so, as well as excellent saved made by Sagar. Merseyside air seems to suit Steel. He followed up his brilliant Anfield display by another equally as good while Carter was just carter -elusive tricky and always dangerous. Everton’s defence was not disgraced. Against a less resolute rearguard, Derby’s approach work and swift positional inner- changes might have brought a much bigger crop of goals. I rated Farrell the best half back on view, with Musson running him close. It was a thousand pities Farrell should have received such a severe facial injury in the last minute. Wainwright worked like a man possessed; Fielding was as full of tricks as anybody on the field and Humphreys did notably against heavy odds, any supported by Watson, whose classic dribble on the goal-line after Sagar had been beaten was the clearest thing I have stem for ages. Even Tommy Jones in his most impish mood could not have bettered it. The only blot on Fielding’s display was an early incident which drew official reprimand. There may have been a contributing cause; if there was, I didn’t see it, put in any case Fielding is too talented to require to descend to such tactics. As part of their training for next Saturday’s Cup game the Wolves players today visited the Worcestershire Spa, Druwick for brine baths and a round of golf.
FARRELL HAS A FRACTURED JAWBONE
January 19, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Peter Farrell, Everton’s Irish international left half-back, is suffering from a fractured jaw, which is now in splints, and from a badly spilt mouth. Farrell must be put down as doubtful for Saturday’s F.A. Cup-tie with Wolverhampton Wanderers, although Everton take an optimistic view. Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly said to me today that the injuries were subject to X-ray and, although the broken jaw is serious, he is not without hope that Peter will be able to the spilt mouth, which necessitated stitches, is giving me more worry. We all have to wait until Saturday before we can give anything definite.” Dugdale who was suffering from a bruised thigh, is quite fit again if needed, while all the others are sound.
Everton are the week-end issued a serious warning to the younger element who attend Goodison Park and especially those who let off fireworks during a game. Unless this practice is stopped the club threatens to withdraw from boys the privilege of using the goal double-decker stand. This follows quickly on Liverpool’s withdrawal of free ticket privileges for Central League games following bad conduct by some boys at Anfield. It is time Merseyside’s young fans changed their ways. Colleague Radar saw Everton’s 3-1 defeat by Derby County and he writes “One small ray of sunshine emerges from this defeat –a defeat which included two streaks Derby goals and finished with the injury to Farrell. I refer to the display of the well-built Cliff Pinchbeck, of whom it was asking a lot to face, at one time a centre half of Leon Leuty’s calibre and a 51,000 crowd. Pinchbeck did not score, but he did sufficient to indicate that in him Everton have the making of a man well qualified to carry on with the famous Goodison centre-forward traditions. Pinchbeck’s has yet to cure a tendency to be too often behind the centre half but he does possess a shot; can use his head; had definite ideas of leadership, and perhaps most important of all, he realises the value of the Lawton short pass. It was unfortunate for Everton that they ran up against strongly built Derby on an inspired day. Country I rated well worthy of victory, but it was a tragedy for the brilliant Sagar that his poorest goal kick should have offered Stamp a “gift” goal chance when the overworked Everton defence had stood up to the task gallantly. Key to the Derby success was the inability of Bentham and Farrell to cope with the dazzling Steel and Carter and the fact that Watson had an unhappy day against the fast Harrison.
CUP BLOW TO EVERTON
January 20, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
Farrell Doubtful
By John Peel
Everton, who visit Molineux Park to play Wolverhampton Wanderers in the fourth round of the F.A. cup competition next Saturday have suffered a big blow by the news that Farrell, their Irish international left half-back, has a fractured jaw and is doubtful for the game. The X-ray examination of Farrell’s injury –received in the game against Derby County last Saturday – discloses a slight fracture of the bone structure of the upper jaw. In spite of the player’s injuries – he has also a cut lip which necessitated four stitches –Mr. Theo Kelly says, following the medial report, that there is just a bare possibility that Farrell will be able to play on Saturday. A definite decision may not be made until the day of the match.
EVERTON
January 20, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Wolverhampton Wanderers home to Everton also have a clear bill of health, while Everton hope that both Dodds and Catterick will have fully recovered from their recent bout of influenza. Farrell of course, will have a big question against his name to the last moment. Peter wants to play, and Everton would like him to, but if there is any risk of aggravating his injury, obviously he will be ruled out. The Everton players trained today as usual at bellefield. They leave by the 11.40 from Woodside on Friday morning for Lemington Spa.
The Everton v Burscough tie is at Anfield on Saturday and in order to provide for any possible overflow from Goodison Park, the kick-off is 2.45.
Willie Cook For Sweden
Willie Cook, Everton’s former Irish International full back, has been appointed to a coaching lob, with Buskyarna F.C., a Swedish club. It is a lucrative summer-time job, extending from April to August. Cook earned high praise for his coaching work in Norway last year, and had several offers from continental sides for the coming season. The Swedes are unable to play during winter, owing to the severity of the weather so that the coaching job fits in ideally with Cook’s recent appointment as scout to Arsenal. The terms also include free passages and accommodation for his wife and two children who will accompany him.
EVERTON’S THIRTEEN
January 21, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Stork’s Notes
Everton will take thirteen players with them to Leamington Spa, where they will spend Friday evening prior to journeying to Wolverhampton on Saturday. Peter Farrell is included among them, and there are great hopes that he will be sufficiently recovered to take the place in the half-back line. Dugdale who has been out of the side since the Blackpool game on January 3, and Dodds and Catterick, who were down with the flu last week are also in the selected list, which is;- Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale, Watson, Bentham, Humphreys, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington. The Wolves team will not be chosen until Friday and it will be selected from the 15 players announced yesterday.
EVERTON DEFY SUPERSTITION
January 21, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton deft superstition for their F.A. Cup fourth round tie with Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Molineux Ground, on Saturday. They will take 13 players on the trip. Latest news upon Peter Farrell, who is suffering from a fractioned jaw, is that he is making excellent progress, and Secretary Manager Theo Kelly said to me today “I am more than hopeful that Farrell will be able to play. Our team will not be selected until Saturday morning before we leave Leamington Spa. The Everton players leave Woodside at 11.40 on Friday morning for Leamington, but because of restricted accommodation at the Spa some of the officials will be travelling through to Wolverhampton on Saturday morning. Everton (from); Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale, Watson, Bentham, Humphreys, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
IT WOULD BE RECORD WIN
January 23, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton Hopes
By Leslie Edwards
When the selected eleven of thirteen Everton players take the field at Wolverhampton tomorrow they have may achieve what no other Everton team has succeeded in doing these past sixty years –beat Wolverhampton Wanderers in a Cup tie. An Everton first tried in the 1893 final, at Fallowfield, and lost 1-0. Wolves won 1-0 at Goodison Park in 1921 and 2-0 at Molineux in 1939. Yet Everton recollection of Wolverhampton itself are not completely unpleasant. I recall the 1933 semi-final match against West Ham petering out in a draw when outside right Critchley weaved his way through to score the goal by which his side were able to continue to Final triumph. And though it is too long ago for me to remember, I am told an Everton, heavily beaten in a League match at Wolverhampton drew from the Times, no less, the distinction of praise for sportsmanship –and on the leader page. This may well have been among the beginning of Everton prestige which has stood nobly the test of time.
Memories
Though Everton may have had their moments of cup disgrace –clubs which have not should be thankful they have escaped so long –the club can point to two successes, 1906 and 1933 and innumerable other occasions on which if it has not been admitted to Wembley, it has at least been heard knocking for admittance. This may not seen a portentous year, but wait...
Much as everyone sympathises with Everton over the possibility of not being able to play Farrell, the greater sympathy is for the player. To lose a tooth and loosen five others and have a fractured jaw is injury at its most painful. The Everton board, with long experience in such matters, will doubtless have to consider whether (even with Farrell fit and willing to play) there is reason to doubt his complete effectiveness immediately after such an injury.
The Right Blend
The blending of wise, experienced players such as Sagar, Watson, Bentham, with the fresh intakes into Everton ranks makes it possible for Everton to win even though Farrell-less. Wolves, when I last saw them, were almost at the stage of despair. A good start, reasonable conformation of ability in later matches, and then one of those spells in which the side’s only consistency was in defeat. A damaged Westcott was then trying to regain confidence in the Reserves. The return to success was as unexpected as it was pronounced. They went all one way and are still progressing. In Manager Ted Vizard the club has a cup-tie expert (was he not one of the Bolton Wanderers who achieved much cup fame?) In left back Adam Mclean, they have the heaviest, certainly the most portly player in the game. Also they feature angular persistent Dennis Westcott, of Wallasey, a full time job for the best and most courageous of centre halves. Everton may not, even now, put a Wolverhampton notch on their cup escutcheon, but if they added a little lustre to themselves by losing sportingly and playing good football they will be remembered in failure.
ITS THEIR TURN
January 23, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
This is Everton’s Turn to beat the Wolves in the Cup. They’re never done it yet. At least I think these “Toffees” are good enough to force a draw to give us more cup thrills a week hence. The Everton team will not be known until tomorrow morning, when a final decision will be made at their Leamington headquarters regarding Peter Farrell, the Irish International, who fractured his jaw last week. Wolves forced a draw at Goodison, and the subtle manoeuvre and fine shooting which Everton showed when winning at Grimsby should prove too much for the Wolves’ defence. Good covering and tenacious tackling are the pillars on which can be erected an Everton victory or draw. I rate Everton as good as the Wanderers, although the Wolves have the better league records for they are the more versatile side and bonny fighters Everton should not lose. Everton (from) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale, Watson, Bentham, Humphreys, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
EVERTON AT MOLYNEUX
January 23, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Away to Wolverhampton Wanderers, Everton also have something on their plate which will not easily be demolished. Wolverhampton’s form has been very in-and-out this season, and though League results are little criterion, Everton can take what encouragement they like from that fact. The home club’s defence has shown signs of shakiness too frequently, for comfort, while the attack, after the sensational performance at the start of the season, has not been anything like so penetrative during recent months. Everton’s rearguard particularly at inside forward has plenty of individual skill and polish, and if Dodds gets the right service of praise the through ball in the open space when he can run on to it –the Blues will give Wolverhampton’s defence plenty to think about. Like the game at Goodison this tie looks to be six of one and half a dozen of the other. The first side to score may prove eventual winners. No further statement was valuable from Everton today –regarding Peter Farrell’s condition. Everton (from) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale, Watson, Bentham, Humphreys, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
WOLVES V. EVERTON
January 24, 1948. The Evening Express
Queues for the Wolves v. Everton Cup-tie began to form outside Molineux ground, Wolverhampton, at 11 a.m. Most of the fans in the queues were Everton supporters wearing blue and white favours, who had arrived in the town shortly before the train. Hundreds more travelled by charabanc. Two young Everton supporters had travelled through the night, having been given a lift on a lorry bound for Bristol from Liverpool.
CATTERICK SCORES LATE EQULAISER
January 24, 1948. The Evening Express
Sensational Penalty Save by Sagar
Radar’s Review
A tragic back-pass by Gordon Watson unable Wolves to take the lead in a grand Cup duel at Molyneux today. In the 26th minute, Westcott nipped in, to slip the ball past Sagar when Watson’s pass through the middle failed to reach it objective. The Everton’s attack disappointed in the first half, but the Toffees were a revitalised side after the interval and the Wolves’ defence was reduced to a state of near panic. Eglington struck the bar with a glorious shot from 15 yards. Sagar saved a penalty taken by Hancocks in the 61st minute. Catterick equalised for Everton after 80 minutes. Two disappointments awaited the strong Everton contingent. Peter Farrell’s broken jaw had not mended sufficiently to allow him to play. This was not surprising. The second blow fell, however, when we learned on arrival at the ground that Jock Dodds had strained a groin training, and it was decided not to risk him either. Everton of course, hoped to break their cup bogey as far as Wolves were concerned. Up to today they had never beaten them in a Cup-tie, and had not in fact, even scored a goal. The pitch was in excellent condition. The Molineux ground record of 61,000 did not seem likely to be broken, for there was plenty of room 20 minutes before the start. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Williams, goal; Kelly, Mclean, backs; Crook, Shorthouse, and Wright (captain), half-backs; Hancock, Pye, Westcott, Forbes, and Mullen, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. C. Fielding.
Everton were quickly away, Eglington nipping in smartly to dispossess Hancocks, but the Irishman’s through pass, intended for Catterick, lacked accuracy. Then, when Wolves attacked, Hancocks took over well out on the right, but screwed his first-timer wide of the far post. This was fast football, with the Wolves exceptionally nippy, and it was fortunate for Everton that Saunders came across with a grand winning tackle to dispossess Mutton after Westcott and Hancocks had collaborated neatly. A galliant attempt by Eglington to break through solo came to nothing. Catterick transferred in great style to Grant, but Grant’s cross swerved backwards and Catterick was unable to make contact. Everton were now giving as good as they received, if not better, and after Watson had swept into the goalmouth the ball came out to Bentham, who brought a gasp with a glorious right footer which flashed past the upright as Williams flung himself full length.
To The Rescue
Saunders came to Everton’s rescue to cut out Mullen, after which Fielding pushed through for Catterick, but again Williams was not tested. The first corner to Wolves produced a near thing for Everton, Sagar saving with some difficulty on the right when Westcott drove in from eight yards. Everton’s sturdy defence did well to survive a stern spell of Wolves’ pressure, relieved when Eglington used his speed to leave Kelly standing, only to fail with his intended short lob to Catterick. A neat move by Mullen during which he rounded Saunders, would have beaten a less vigilant goalkeeper than Sagar, who was alive to the danger and came out to catch Mullen’s short centre neatly. Then Sagar left his goal to thwart Mullen again by charging down a point blank shot. Wolves kept it up and Forbes neutralised fine progressive work by Pye and Hancocks by completely misplacing his pass forward, after which he took over from Mullen, to drive powerfully over the bar. Using the sweeping cross-pass effectively. Wolves kept the Everton defence at full strength. Little had been seen of the Everton attack, but when Wainwright did burst through, he seemed to be pulled down just inside the area.
Everton Appeal
A strong Everton appeal for a penalty received no acknowledgement from the referee. Most of Everton’s best work was coming from the left wing, with Fielding using all his tricks. Then tragedy befell Everton in the 26th minute. A powerful Wolves attack seemed to have been stemmed when Watson gained possession. He tried to pass back through a ruck of players to Sagar. The ball appeared to strike Humphreys when Westcott nipped in and drove past Sagar. It entered the net after striking the foot of the upright. Wolves deserved their lead, but the manner of its taking was a terrible blow to the “Toffee’s” Sagar showed his displeasure at the misfortune in no uncertain manner. Within a couple of minutes it was almost two, for Mullen took over from Westcott and crossed perfectly, for Hancock to head in from point blank range. Sagar had positioned himself ideally, however, and caught the ball brilliantly. After Grant had forced Wright to concede an unproductive corner, Sagar saved again magnificently by leaping high to take Hancock’s deceptive centre-cum-shot high in the air. One of Everton’s best efforts –they were few and far between –came when Wainwright, who had been peculiarly out of the picture so far, bore out to the left and gave Eglington the chance to shoot from a difficult position over the angle of the bar. Wolves broke away for Mullen to burst through, only to handle after his through shot had struck the advancing Sagar.
A Near Thing
Away went Everton –with Grant streaking out of the extreme left wing –and Catterick took Wainwright’s pass and forced Williams to save a well-directed grounder at full length –a near thing for Wolves. Everton showed distinctly more spirit towards the interval and Catterick almost equalised when he went through again from Wainwright’s pass but McLean diverted the ball behind at the vital moment slightly injuring himself in doing so. One could not say that the Everton line was moving sweetly, however. Brilliant work by Hancocks and Pye brought Mullen into action, and from the danger-laden cross. Pye headed against the post. Sagar was in position to catch Westcott’s header from the rebound.
Half-time; Wolves 1, Everton 0.
Everton resumed determinedly, Watson finding Eglington who slipped the ball inside for Fielding, in turn, to flick it sidewards to Wainwright. Williams was not troubled, however, for Wainwright’s pile driver was turned behind for a corner which came to nothing. Wolves were not slow to retaliate, and Forbes gave the 45,000 crowd a thrill when he flashed through and forced Sagar to go full length to deal with a low drive. Then came wretched luck for Everton when Fielding and Eglington paired off dangerous and Catterick leapt up, to send in a grand header from Eglington’s cross. Unfortunately however, it swept just wide of the near post. Again bad luck for the Blues when Eglington crack in a storming drive which almost snapped the bar while Williams was a helpless spectator. Everton at this point were showing up something of their real selves, and the Wolves defence was very much “on the collar.” Fielding and Eglington were making hay with the Wolves’ defence without being able to produce the vital shot, while Catterick was striving desperately to outwit the lanky Shorthouse. Again the Fielding-Eglington combine danced their way through and Grant gained possession. He brought the ball down to his liking and let go with his right foot from 20 yards. This was indeed a revitalised Everton and with Catterick running in, Crook almost repeated Watson’s pass back lapse.
Panic
This time Williams was able to get there first. This was now completely two-way traffic. Everton flung everything into attack, and had the Wolves kicking anywhere for safely. But still the equaliser eluded Everton. Little was seen of the Wolves’ attack, although Sagar had to leave his goal in a hurry to prevent Westcott nipping in again. Everton tried a tentative long ranger in an effort to surprise Williams, but there was more power than accuracy about his shot. Wolves now struck back strongly, and it looked as if it were the end for Everton in the 61st minute, when Fielding was ruled to have uprooted Hancocks, and Wolves were awarded a penalty. Hancocks took the kick himself, only to see Sagar save sensationally at full length. The entire Everton team ran over to congratulate the brilliant Sagar. Again for a time it was Wolves who were on top, and Sagar had to dash out sharply to prevent Westcott gaining possession. Westcott went through again on his own when Humphreys slipped. It was a glorious chance, but Westcott hesitated sufficiently long to allow Sagar to position himself and save splendidly at the foot of the post. After 80 minutes, however, Everton gained their just reward. Further by-play between Fielding and Eglington enabled Fielding to lob the ball to the middle, for Catterick to head accurately into the top-right hand corner. At this time Wainwright was operating at outside-right. This was terrific stuff, and Wright went to inside left and broke through the Everton defence, to steer a ball inches wide of the post with Sagar beaten. Sagar and Williams saved brilliantly in turn. Full time; Wolves 1, Everton 1. Extra time being played.
• Sheffield Wednesday reserves 3, Everton Reserves 0
• Strangely Everton “A” were playing at Anfield against Bursclough, and Liverpool were playing at Goodison Park against Manchester United in the F.A Cup in front of 74,721, united winning 3-0. (This must be the first time this as happened).
EQUALISER AT 80 MINUTES
January 24, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Grimsby Tactics Win Extra Time for Everton
Sagar Saves Penalty
Wolves 1, Everton 1
By Stork
Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Williams, goal; Kelly, Mclean, backs; Crook, Shorthouse, and Wright (captain), half-backs; Hancock, Pye, Westcott, Forbes, and Mullen, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. C. Fielding.
Wolverhampton was suffering from Cup-tie itis; but for all that I did not think that the attendance would reach the ground record, which stood at 61,000. Of course there were many to come in, so that there was likely to be close on 60,000. The many Everton fans who made the trip were greatly disappointed when they heard the team announcement that either Farrell nor Dodds were playing. Farrell’s jaw injury is recovering, but was not well enough to allow him to play today. Dodds is suffering from a strained groin sustained during training, so that Everton brought in Catterick as centre-forward. Watson moved up to his original position at left half-back so that Dugdale could return at full back after his three weeks, spell on the injured list. Cyril Sidlow, the Liverpool goalkeeper, was at the match. He tells me he has resumed training and is feeling in splendid condition. Pye and Forbes returned to the Wolves side after a month’s absence. They put out two youngsters because the Wolves folk thought that their greater experience would be more beneficial.
Grand Recovery
Wolverhampton started playing towards the town end, and it was not long before they were on the attack. Dugdale was soon conspicuous with a grand piece or recovery work to check Hancock’s. Westcott soon found that Humphreys was going to be a difficult man to beat, for although he was able to collect a Hancocks centre he was unable to find a way passed Humphreys. Fielding and Eglington opened the way to a nice interchange of passing, the ball finally reaching Bentham, who from fully thirty yards, shot with tremendous power just outside the upright. Catterick had to give way to the weight of numbers and his shot was blocked just as he was about to shoot. Dugdale and Hancock were often at grips, and when the Everton man conceded a corner it created; for Everton a dangerous goalmouth incident. The ball eventually reached Westcott who shot low. Sagar made a grand save on his goal line. At this point the Wanderers were putting on full power and Sagar had to save again and the line was glad to get away with a corner award. Westcott was given a fine pass by Hancock, but the Wolves centre forward thought it advisable to offer the chance to Mullen, so he cracked the ball out to the wing. Saunders half intercepted, but the ball still went on to Mullen, whose centre was finally cleared by Humphreys.
Angled by Sagar
Wanderers pressed increasingly for the first fifteen minutes when Mullen was given the ball just inside the penalty area. We expected a shot we got one. But Sagar also had expected a shot and he came out to angle the shooter, who could do little else but shoot straight at Sagar. Everton’s right wing had not been seen, but in its very first effort Grant and Wainwright manoeuvred an opening which enabled the latter to move in, but he was brought down. He appealed for a penalty, I did not think it was worth a penalty. The Wolves had frittered some chances, but at 26 minutes they scored the first goal of the day. To help in the relief of his harassed defence Watson attempted a back-pass to Sagar –but Westcott got there first before the goalkeeper and shot. The ball struck the inside of the upright and went to the back of the net.
Miraculous Save
But for a miraculous save by Sagar to the short-range header by Pye, Wolves would have been two goals to the good. Sagar was again in the picture when he made a flying catch when Hancock’s centred right across the Everton goal. On the few occasions that Everton did make a raid they fine the Wolves defence holding stoutly. Hereabouts Everton heartened their followers when Catterick forced Williams to save. The Wolves goalkeeper only parried the ball, but before another Everton man could get in touch with it Williams had recovered.
Across the Goalmouth
Hancock and Pye worked an opening and when the ball came flashing across the goalmouth Pye seemed certain to score with a header, but the ball struck the woodwork, rebounded and Sagar had to make a quick catch.
Half-time; Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Everton nil.
Everton resumed with a bonny movement as had been seen thus far. The pity was that Wainwright’s fierce drive was deflected as it was speeding towards goal.
Brilliant Catches
Then followed two determined Wolverhampton attacks, Sagar held up the first with a flying save from Forbes. Two corners followed, but Sagar staggered the Wolverhampton people with two brilliant catches. The next 10 minutes found Everton testing the Wanderers defence to the full. It was the Grimsby tactics all over again. They had taken the Wolverhampton strain and now became an attacking force. Fielding with a long pass out to Eglington, saw the latter make a good-length centre which Catterick nodded just wide. It was a grand effort. The Wolverhampton goal had an even narrower escape when Eglington best everyone, the goalkeeper included only to see his shot crash against the crossbar. Everton were showing grand fighting spirit and they were using Eglington’s speed to a great effect, and Wolves had to strengthen their defence to check this new-born Everton. Wolves followers were surprised by the magnificent fight Everton were putting up attacks which tore holes in Wolves defensive plan. The youthful Shorthouse did not know where to station himself for the ball travelled from one man to another, so quickly; it must have made him dizzy.
Desperate Fight
Everton were undeniably making these Wolves fight desperately hard to hold their lead. Fielding who had all along been the key man, was keeping Eglington going with lovely passes. Wainwright tried a long shot but was off the mark.
Wonder Save
On the few occasions that the Wanderers raided the Everton stronghold they found Saunders, Humphreys and Dugdale ready for all emergencies. At 71 minutes, Wolves were awarded a penalty kick for a foul by Fielding on Hancocks. One naturally expects a goal from a penalty spot kick, but Sagar made a wonder save from Hancocks’s low drive. It was a blow to Wolverhampton but the Everton people including the players, gave Sagar a great rally. He had earned it. Wolverhampton made one or two incursions and Westcott when clean through, shot outside. At 80 minutes Everton equalised, and they were well worthy of it. Eglington took the ball, transferred it to Fielding, who lifted it into the goalmouth where Catterick neatly headed it into the net –Terrific cheer from the Everton fans. This was to say the least a magnificent tussle. Wright almost restored the lead when he broke through and shot only inches outside.
So near –
Catterick almost brought about the defeat of Wolverhampton. He rounded his man, but just as he shot Kelly’s foot got in the way and all Everton got was a corner. Thrills came one after the other and Sagar made yet another grand save in repelling a short-range shot from Wright.
Final; Wolverhampton 1, Everton 1
Extra-Time.
There was soon plenty of action in the first half of the extra time, Sagar making two saves the second a bonny one from Wright. He was well beaten by a Mullen shot; but the winger’s drive hit the far post and rebounded into play. Wolverhampton were pilling on all they had and the Everton goal escaped miraculously when Westcott shot from close in.
Glorious Chance
Hancock’s with a glorious chance, shot fiercely, but Dugdale standing on the line, kicked clear and hurt himself in the process. Humphreys who had been magnificent throughout was seen at his best in a duel with Westcott and he came out triumphant. From this clearance Everton swooped down and Williams had to go down smartly to keep out a Wainwright drive.
Eglington Hurt
Eglington was hurt in a tackle and had to go off the field. Eglington returned after a minute absence. Sagar again showed that he is still one of the best goalkeeper’s in the land when he saved from Hancock.
Half-time of extra time; Wolves 1, Everton 1.
SAGAR SAVES TOUCHED NEW PEAK AT MOLINEUX
January 26, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Everton 1 (After Extra Time)
People in Liverpool claim the best Cup-tie was the Goodison Park game between Everton and Sunderland a few years before the war. This match ran it close, the main difference being that the Sunderland match produced ten goals as against two on this occasion. The Wolverhampton game was packed with thrills, fine football and a display of goalkeeping such as Wolverhampton has never seen. Sagar broke their hearts by miraculous work. Sagar has never done anything better than this. He was a Hardy, Scott, and Swift rolled into one. The penalty save of Hancock’s low shot crowned his greatness. Sagar moved like lightning to make the save of the century. There were half-a-dozen other saves of almost equal merit. There were other reasons why Wolverhampton Wanderers have to pay a visit to Goodison Park on Saturday. One was the fighting spirit of the Everton defence. Humphreys was always there; Saunders, Dugdale, Bentham, and Watson giving their all when the Wolves were battering at the door to obtain a convincing first half lead.
Testing Period.
The most testing period throughout the whole of the match was to my mind, the first half of the extra time. Wolverhampton were then more menacing than at any other time. It was the most thrilling fifteen minutes it has been my duty to witness, but I was glad when it was over. This was a game of two phrases. It was all Wolverhampton in the first half, a duel between their attack and Everton’s defence, Wanderers had chances, but did not take them. Pye was sadly at fault with a header that struck the woodwork when he should have made no mistake, and the goal Westcott scored had an element of luck about it. The second half was a complete reversal of form. Everton did the dictating, and the change of front was due to Fielding opening the play with long sweeping passes, which had the Wanderers defence completely mastered. Eglington’s speed left Kelly and Wright standing still, yet there was still a dearth of Everton shots. Eglington slammed one in, the ball striking the bar, after Williams had fingered it up, and Catterick made a galliant effort toward’s goal only to miss by inches. Everton’s display in view of their first half efforts, astonished everyone. No one had anticipated such a turnabout. At long last Everton got their reward. They might have had it before had Fielding shot when he had made the opening, instead of preferring to pass Eglington and Fielding had played so well that it was only poetic justice that they should be concerned in this all important goal ten minutes from the end. Eglington flipped the ball to Fielding who scooped it up into the goalmouth and Catterick cleverly headed it away from Williams. Nine minutes before the Wanderers had been awarded the penalty which produced Sagar’s wonder save. The extra half hour was as brimful of thrills as the previous 90 minutes with Sagar at his best. On this display there is no better goalkeeper in the League. Wolverhampton are not the team they were but Wright was magnificent, as a half and forward. The Everton defence took most of the laurels, with Sagar standing high above all others. Wainwright was not himself for he received a nasty blow on the head and was dazed for a goodly part of the game. Eglington hurt an arm and was smitten for a time by cramp and Bentham and Humphreys were limping at times. But it was not a foul game even if it was a battle royal for 120 minutes. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Williams, goal; Kelly, Mclean, backs; Crook, Shorthouse, and Wright (captain), half-backs; Hancock, Pye, Westcott, Forbes, and Mullen, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. C. Fielding.
• Everton “A” 0, Burscough 2
SAGAR AND COMPANY
September 26, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
When Ted Sagar comes on to the field on Saturday next, see that you give him a special reception, for it was he who made this replay possible. I have seen some amazing exhibitions of goalkeeping in my time, but Sagar’s Molynuex display surpasses all games. (writes Stork). But don’t confine yourself entirely to Ted for he alone could not have done it. Without the aid of his co-defenders –Saunders, Dugdale, Bentham, Humphreys, Watson. They were all magnificent, never sparing themselves; always prepared to fight out the issue with the opposition. Nineteenth seasons ago Sagar came from Yorkshire to Goodison Park, yet here he is as agile and as teen-eyed as ever, he was with the experience which the years have brought him. Let me cite his penalty save – it was not a miss by Hancock, who made the perfect penalty shot, low and fierce to Sagar’s right side – as an example Sagar knew where Hancock would put that ball and moved that was to bring off a save in a million. He made half a dozen others at like quality especially in the extra time, the first fifteen minutes of which I rate the most hectic the Everton defence will have to go through. It was almost as exhausting for the strong Everton followers as for the players themselves, and that is saying something. The Wolves were in their most menacing mood, but Humphreys and his colleagues put up as galliant a front as the men of Cawn, it was defence magnifence; steady, strong and defiant. We saw it at Grimsby and Middlesbrough, so it’s becoming commonplace to we regulars. Even the goal which Wolves scored was something in the nature of a fluke, for it was a pass back to Watson to Sagar –Humphreys allowed the ball to pass between his legs to Sagar but the ball dragged and Westcott nipped in slightly ahead of Sagar, and shot into the net via the upright. I don’t think one single person around the ground expected Everton to raise the initiative from the Wolves, yet they did, so that the game was played in two phrase –Wolves first, Everton next, it was an amazing turnabout and the Wolves were just as much battered down to defence as Everton had been with the exception that their shooting was not so frequent, Williams had to “finger” one from Eglington and was fortunate to see the ball crash against his crossbar.
SAGAR KEEPS CUP LIGHT BURNING
January 26, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Ted Sagar, Britain’s oldest and greatest goalkeeper, is the man responsible for keeping the Merseyside cup light burning. Sagar’s mighty display at Wolverhampton on Saturday has injected cup-tie fever into the whole Merseyside, for next Saturday Everton and the Wolves renew, at Goodison Park, their battle which after 120 minutes on Saturday ended 1-1. Sagar, the man who three years ago wondered whether he would ever play in big time football again, has staged the greatest comeback” in football, and I am assured that the latest contribution to a lifetime of epic displays was perhaps the greatest of all. Colleague Radar, on his return from Milinoux, said to me, “Sagar was phenomenal,” I saw Sagar defy Grimsby Town in the fourth round, and now, backed by ten mighty team workers who so willingly sacrifice self for club, he has done it again to bring Everton a home tie which the fourth round draw fails to produce. Everton were splendidly led by Stan Bentham, the vice-captain. Everton’s luck with draw or toss is notoriously bad. After the game at Molyneux the clubs tossed up for ground in case of a second replay, for Everton suggested Maine-road and the Wolves Villa Park. Yes, as you may have expected the luck was against Everton, for Wolves won the toss, and so if the tie goes to a neutral ground –I do not anticipate such a happening –it will be at Villa Park next Monday. Everton’s draw was exactly what I expected and forecast in fact it was supreme confidence in the Toffees’ ability to bring Wolves to Goodison that a stayed home to see Liverpool and Manchester United in which a shadow Liverpool were beaten, oh so easily.
Those Injuries
However, let the past bury it’s dead. Let us to the future and the prospect of the Everton-Wolves battle on Saturday with Everton, as usual, facing these never-ending injuries. Farrell is still injured; Dodds has a groin injury; Wainwright and Grant got knocks on Saturday and Humphreys pulled up sore, but fighting as hard and effectively as ever. Everton at one time had only nine fit men. Secretary-manager Theo Kelly takes an optimistic view and is confident that Trainer Harry Cooke can get the “casualties” fit by the week-end. Everton enthusiasts were queering at Goodison in the early hours of yesterday morning and some thousands were there by 11 0’clock when the sale of replay tickets began. About 4,000 of the available 12,000 odd stands tickets were sold nice and orderly. At stands seats are being sold at 10s, and 5s –Wolves take 25 per cent, remember –and shareholders and season-tickets holders can claim their tickets by postal applications with stamped-addressed envelops by Wednesday morning, marking the envelopes “shareholders” or “season ticket holders” as the case may be. Today’s post bag at Goodison was the heaviest for a long time and the office staff is now working at top pressure to meet the demands. It is possible that Saturday’s new ground record of 74,721 (£8,810 cash) will be broken.
Two Phases
Now to Radar review on this great draw by the Blues in a game be assures me has as many thrills as the famous 6-4 cup replay with Sunderland. The first person I saw after the game was Mr. Kelly “writes Radar” and his words to me were. He wondered isn’t he? That summed it up; no need for anyone to ask who the ‘he’ was for every-one knew it was Sagar. Ted display was the crowning glory of a brilliant fighting display by Everton in a game of two phases and bringing moments of joy and tense anxiety. During the first half Everton were very much on the ‘collar’ but the defence stood up manfully, and it was akin to a tragedy that Watson’s back pass should go astray and let in the menacing Westcott to give Wolves the lead. We felt thankful at half-time that it was only one against. Came the transformation. From a defensive combine Everton, in the second half, became a vital attacking force penning the Wanderers into their own half continuously so that the Wolves were almost frantic in their efforts to waste time and kick out. Fielding the best forward in the game, split the Wanderers defence open with his well-timed Wanderers defence open with his well-timed passes and just when it looked as if Everton must get level came a penalty against them. It seemed like the end, but “No” Sagar dived to the foot of the post to save Hancocks splendidly taken shot and find himself smothered by congratulatory colleagues. Truly a wonder save which had the effects of giving Everton even greater heart (not that they needed it) and so on to the 80th minute when Harry Catterick so brilliantly headed home Fielding’s centre for the well-earned equaliser. Extra time again saw the penduinm swing towards Wolves, who brought Wright up into the attack but Everton’s glorious defenders stood in the breech and just refused to be beaten. Gradually the Wolves were worn down until they themselves were worried, and maybe, as thankful as Everton when the final whistle went. Wolves had more of the game, but defence is part of a team ad for that quality alone the Toffees deserved to survive, I have seen the Everton attack in better light, but Grant and Eglington did well. The half-backs were grand and that goes for Saunders and Dugdale. How these boys did fight in front of the greatest of all goalkeepers, Sagar. No praise is too much for them and on this showing I fancy Everton will win the replay, for the forward work generally will be better next time.”
WOLVES’ “CLEAN BILL”
January 27, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Side Against Everton May be Unchanged
Goodison’s Busy Men
Wolverhampton Wanderers report a clean bill of health this morning and the probability is that there will be no change in their side to meet Everton in the cup replay at Goodison Park on Saturday. A couple of Wolves players received miner knocks, but Mr. Ted Vizard says they are all right. The team will be chosen on Wednesday evening and will travel to Liverpool by train from Wolverhampton on Saturday morning arriving about mid-day. Wolves are again training at home with brine baths and an occasional game of golf to lighten the more serious side of their preparation. Mr. Vizard asks me to warn Merseyside enthusiasm that it is pointless writing to Wolves for tickets as many have done. Wolverhampton’s share of the stand accommodation is nothing like sufficient to satisfy the request the club has had from their own followers. It would be difficult to say who is busiest official up at Goodison Park just now. Manager Theo Kelly has his hands full in several directions, assistant-secretary Bill Dickinson is similarly snowed under, and Trainer Harry Cooke has several players in need of extra special attention. Fortunately, apart from Peter Farrell, Everton’s injuries are not serious and Harry Cooke hopes to have everybody fit and well before the great day. Eglington has slight ankle and arm injuries, Stan Bentham a twisted ankle, also slight and Dodd’s a groin injury, sustained in training a week ago, which is improving. Grant is already fit again and Wainwright’s minor bruises have lost their painfulness. Everton are pursuing their normal routine. The majority of the players were out at Bellefield this morning for ball practice and later had sprinting and gym work at Goodison.
EVERTON CUP TEAM TALKS TONIGHT
January 27, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot Log (Don Kendall)
Everton directors meet this evening to discuss their team for the great F.A. Cup fourth round replay with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park on Saturday, but it may not be possible for them to decide on an exact eleven because of injuries. Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly can give no definite news regarding the injured players for he has to await the reports of the club doctor, Dr. W. Davies and Trainer Harry Cooke, in any event, the injury to Peter Farrell forces a delay, for with the passing of every hour the hopes that Peter will be available improve. There is no need for Everton to make up their minds early, with four days to go before the game. It is as well to wait, Mr. Kelly is quite optimistic about the whole position and that is good enough for me.
Inundated
Everton are absolutely inundated with applications for tickets and with the morning’s mail –heavier than even that of yesterday, -Mr. Kelly estimates that the club could have disposed of more than 40,000 tickets –further evidence that far from being on the wane the sports boom increases. People who have never seen a football match are struggling to get tickets for this epic, but Everton are ensuring that there is an even distribution so far as is humanly possible. One thing with Goodison is that, apart from the 15,000 stand seats, there is ample room for 13,000 people in the paddock -50 per cent, of them under cover –and for 48,000 in the ground. It may be that last Saturday’s 74,721 record will stand for this week-end.
EVERTON’S CUP TEAM
January 28, 1945. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton have one team doubt for their fourth round F.A. Cup replay with Wolves at Goodison Park on Saturday. This is in relation to the fitness of Peter Farrell, their Irish international Farrell is recovering from a fractioned jaw and loosened teeth, but the club hold out hopes that he will be able to play. If not the team will be the same as that which forced a 1-1 draw at Molineux on Saturday. Everton (from) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
EVERTON’S TWELVE
January 28, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Following last night’s meeting Everton announced twelve players from whom the team to meet Wolves in Saturday’s replay will be chosen. Minor knocks sustained at Molyneux have been successfully treated, and to last week’s eleven has been added the name of Peter Farrell the Irish international half back whose injured jaw has shown such rapid improvement that there is a possibility he may be able to resume this week. Dodds, however, has been reported unfit owing is a groin injury. The twelve players named are; Everton (from) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
EVERTON WOLVES EPIC CUP TIE
January 30, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers, the remaining F.A. Cup hopes of Merseyside and the Midlands, get to grips at Goodison Park, tomorrow, in their eagerly-awaited fourth round replay which will attract an attendance which may e a record for an Everton club game. It they win, will visit Fulham in the fifth round the following Saturday. Should there be no decision tomorrow after 120 minutes including 30 minutes extra time, the clubs will meet for the third time on Monday –at Villa Park. Everton on form should win, although the Wolves gained a point through a 1-1 draw at Goodison in the League. The fact that Everton held the Wanderers to a 1-1 draw last week, however indicates that the Toffees will succeed in a tough tussle tomorrow. This should be a great game with conditions suiting the constructionists of both teams, for they will be able to “hold and draw” before making their passes. Defensively I rate Everton the stronger side, but they may not have quite the same “punch” in attack as the Wolves, whose leader, Dennis Westcott, from Wallasey, seems to have a habit of finding accuracy in his shooting whenever he faces Everton. Main motive force behind the Wolves is England half-back Willie Wright who is skipper of the team, while interest will centre on the appearance of Jimmy Dunn, at inside-right for Jimmy’s father helped Everton to win the Cup in 1933. If Humphreys can hold Westcott and the backs keep right on top of Hancocks and Mullen, I have a feeling that Everton can snatch the vital victory goal. Free movement of the ball in the corner flags will give Grant and Eglington the opportunity to operate on solid ground. Everton have made ample arrangement for packing the crowd and if spectators will go to the ground early, from orderly queues; listen to the instructions of police and officials and move away from the feeding lanes once inside the grounds, there should be no more worry or fuss about housing the crowd than there was last Saturday, when 74,721 saw the United –Liverpool game. Everton (from) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Humphreys, Watson, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington. Wolves; Williams; Kelly, McLean; Crook, Shorthhouse, Wright (capt); Hancocks, Dunn, Westcott, Forbes, Mullen.
TELEVISION, SOCCER NEW LOOK
January 31, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
But Everton Board Prefers the Old Style
By Leslie Edwards
Whether it is Everton, as we know, or Wolverhampton Wanderers, Fulham want the fifth round tie next Saturday to have the New Look. They propose to televise it. London message last night suggested Everton nor Wolverhampton Wanderers had objected to Television. True in one sense, but misleading in another. Everton chairman, Dr. Cecil Baxter, told me last night; “We have not even considered such an offer. The board have previously voted themselves as opposed, in principle, to television.
EVERTON TIE WITH WOLVES
January 31, 1948. The Evening Express
Westcott Scores in First Half
By Pilot (Do Kendall)
Peter Farrell, Everton’s Irish international half-back had not made sufficient recovery from his fractured jaw to play against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the great F.A. Cup 4th round replay at Goodison Park today. I saw Farrell before the game, and he said that in the last two days he has shown immense improvement; can eat all right; and although the gold band is still on his upper teeth he is confident he will be fit in a week’s time. The teams drew 1-1 after extra time at Molineux last week and the same teams appeared with one exception, Jimmy Dunn the former St Teresa’s schoolboy was at inside right in place of Pye in the Wolves side. Dunn’s father was in Everton 1933 F.A. Cup winning team. The ground looked in splendid condition and the crowd assembled in orderly fashion, in fact not until a quarter of an hour before the kick-off was it found necessary to close two turnstiles in Goodison-road. The Everton mascot made merry while waiting for the teams to come out but although there were about 7,000 spectators from Wolverhampton there were no mascots to urge them on. Black and gold top hats were dotted throughout the crowd and the rattles which had helped Everton so much last week were much in evidence. The winners have been drawn to visit Fulham in the fifth round next Saturday, and if there is no decision today, after 120 minutes –that includes 30 minutes extra time –the teams will meet for the third time on Monday –at Villa Park, Birmingham. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, and Dugdale, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Williams, goal; Kelly and McLean, backs; Crook, Shorthouse, and Wright (captain), half-backs; Hancock, Dunn, Westcott, Forbes, and Mullen, forwards. Referee; Mr. C. Fletcher (Davenham, Cheshire). Ted Sagar was given a wonderful reception when he went to take up his spot under the new double-decker, Wright having eaten Bentham in the toss and forcing Everton to face the slanting sun and the curling wind. Wolves opening raid was held and away went Catterick at outside right to cross a ball which Williams fielded comfortably. The fast moving ball in which teeth of the wind twice prevented Mullen from taking advantage of good passes by Westcott, and Everton’s forwards, brilliantly led by Catterick, who was showing enterprising and virility, looked the more dangerous.
Dived to Save
After Dugdale had held up Westcott beautifully, Everton came through with a five point attack which ended in Fielding shooting low, but Williams dived across to save. Wainwright pushed the ball through the middle for Catterick, but Mclean got it away to touch. Then Wainwright’s overhead kick put Catterick clean through, and he shot well along the floor, beating Williams but Kelly had dropped to the goal line and he kicked the ball away. Eglington came far across to the right and with Grant’s aid they got Fielding bursting through to the line to centre magnificently, the ball being a split second too fast for the in running Catterick. This was grand stu by Everton, who were faster on the ball than the Wolves and developed their attacks quicker. Mullen shot outside in one brief raid before Williams having to dive to save a tapped shot. Wolves won the first corner of the day, and Hancock’s placed it far across to Mullen, who drove over. Mullen was injured, and had to go for the line for attention to the left thigh. Hancock’s won another corner which brought a narrow escape for Everton, a lucky escape in fact. Hancock’s dropped the corner short and Dunn raced in with a header which beat Sagar, but Saunders was right on the line to head away for another corner.
Sagar Again
Last week’s history of the Wolves goal was almost repeated when Westcott darted in to try and intercept Saunders’ back pass, but Sagar dashed out and dived on the ball. Westcott was fouled on the edge of the penalty area and from the free kick Westcott in strongly, but Sagar saved high up. For a quite a spell Everton were “on the collar” being unable to get the ball away against the fast-moving Wolves. The Wolves exerted heavy pressure, and Sagar was troubled by the sun, so that following yet another Wolves corner Dugdale headed off the line, but most of the players seemed to be ‘blinded.’ Another Wolves corner saw Sagar dash out ad fist the ball a quarter the length of the field. As the Wolves kept up the pressure Sagar saved low down from Westcott. It was 25 minutes before Everton gained their first corner, and this was effectively dealt with by shorthouse. Although Everton had opened so well they had for some time been playing second fiddle to the rampaging Wolves. However a sweeping centre by Watson saw Mclean just beat Grant to it as they went up.
Back Injured
Mclean was injured and Grant who had been hobbling, seized the chance for a little treatment as McLean went off with blood streaming from an eye. Everton won a corner on the left and this was taken by Fielding, Williams dashing out to fist the ball off the lead of Catterick. Williams was injured in the effort and for the fourth time a trainer was on, Williams having damaged his left hand. He resumed, but obviously he was in some pain. Fielding put in a magnificent run in which he came right up to the goal line before slipping the ball back for Wainwright to shoot first time, the ball striking Shorthouse before being whisked away. Catterick took up the attack with a shot which Williams saved magnificently. Everton claimed a penalty when Wainwright tried to brush past Shorthouse, but I thought the referee was right in declining it. Everton certainly were cashing in on the absence of Mclean, and Williams had to come out to prevent Catterick from taking advantage of Grant’s short pass. McLean came back after being absent for eight minutes, as this continued a fast, exciting game with little to choose and defences, so far holding the mastery. Dunn went through and Bentham was thankful to get away by conceding a corner, which Sagar caught magnificently under the bar. This was Wolves eight corner as compared with Everton’s two, the main reason being that Everton never hesitated to concede a corner, having the utmost faith in Sagar. In 42 minutes Wolves took the lead through Westcott, who kept up his record of always scoring against the Toffees. The goal emanated from a long clearance kick by Williams which was nodded forward by Dunn, and Westcott and Humphreys chased it. The ball, propelled by the wind, flashed across the goal and Sagar, who was unable to get back had the mortification of seeing Westcott run beyond him and tap the ball into the net. A simple goal, but once again emphasising the enterprise of Westcott. Everton responded with a brilliant shot by Fielding which, however, was headed over the top by Shorthouse.
Half-time; Everton 0, Wolves 1.
There is no doubt whatever, in my own mind that Westcott handled the ball in the scoring of the goal. It was Everton’s luck that on resuming the sun should go in. Everton raced away to take a corner and from this Wainwright slipped the ball inside but Grant could not reach it. The Wolves defenders covered magnificently as Everton tried to batter a way through. Hancock’s went through on his own to beat Saunders, but then found Dugdale too strong for him. Dunn was much too quick for Watson and Dugdale and he dashed through on his own only to place outside from 10 yards. Hancocks, deceived Watson cleverly in the corner and cut in towards goal, letting go a brilliant left-foot shot to which Sagar flung himself to turn the ball round the post.
Narrow Escape
Everton had another narrow escape when, following a mistake by Eglington, Dunn was presented with the chance to go through, but his quick centre was beaten away direct to Mullen, who put the ball back into the goalmouth with Sagar already out. Sagar broke even time in rushing back, and he got there just in time to turn the ball over for yet another corner. There had been precious little Everton shooting, but now Wainwright tried a fast shot which Williams save comfortably. Everton equalised in 64 minutes with a magnificent goal by Fielding. The goal came as a real shock to the Wolves who seemed to be holding their mastery rather well. Away on the right Wainwright hooked the ball to Grant, who sent it forward for the enterprising Fielding who ran through at the inside right position. Shorthouse dashed across to tackle him on the goal line and it looked as if Shorthouse was succeeding, Catterick dashing over to dispossesses Shorthouse, and Fielding seized on the ball like a stoat seizing a rabbit and ran on to flash the ball past Williams into the far corner although he could have had no more than a yard in which to shoot, so narrow was the angle. Everton kept it up, Shorthouse heading off the goalline a short centre from Grant, while Wainwright almost got Catterick through. With 20 minutes to go the Wolves made their famous switch, Wright going to inside left and Forbes to left half, but it was Everton who called the tune, Williams saving well from Wainwright.
That Man Again!
In 74 minutes Westcott restored the lead, thanks to the enterprise of Mullen. Wright raced through and pushed the ball back to the unmarked Mullen, who took his time and then lobbed it neatly into the goalmouth where Dugdale was much too late in tackling Westcott, who stabbed the ball into the net. Thus was joy turned to disappointment. Once in the lead again Wright took the view that his job was done and he resumed his old position. Everton attacked purposefully and the ball came wide to Eglington, who shot well, but Williams kept across to place the ball behind. Kelly saved a certain equaliser when he headed away a great shot by Fielding. Everton brought Grant to centre forward in an effort to worry the Wolves defence, but there was no shots forthcoming, apart from one by Wainwright who passed by harmlessly. Sagar saved well from Forbes. There was a sensational finish, Grant equalising with only 30 secs to go. Eglington had been fouled, and from the free kick Williams came out as Grant rushed in. Williams managed to get the ball away for a corner and Fielding dashed across to take it on the left and he swerved the ball in cleverly. Wainwright and Catterick tried to get the ball through but it bounced back to Grant who slammed it into the net through a crowd of players –a coolly taken and thrilling effort. Score after 90 minutes; Everton 2, Wolverhampton 2.
Extra Time
Everton took up the running immediately and Wainwright dashed through to shoot powerfully, Williams dashing across goal to save. Grant just failed to get Catterick through on two occasions and then Sagar dashed out to fist away from the in running Westcott. Wright went to inside again and certainly brought plenty of life into the Wanderers line, but it was Everton who looked more dangerous although. Eglington when after outrunning the defence he skimmed the ball against the side netting. Wainwright dashed through to the line but placed straight into the hands of Williams and then Wright forced a corner off Humphreys which Sagar took charge of. Fielding’s high shot was well taken y Williams, who was badly handicapped with his injured hand. Humphreys had injured his chest, but twice he came through with magnificent interventions.
Half-time; of extra time; Everton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.
Everton were standing the pace better, and Fielding again scored. Fielding gave Everton the lead for the first time in the tie with a grand goal, in which a big vote of thanks is due to Grant. Grant robbed McLean and came through to place a perfect pass across to Fielding, who from 12 yards flashed it into the corner of the net with his right foot. Everton brought everybody back on defence as the Wolves tried hard to pull out of the fire a game which they seemed to have won long ago. Sagar magnificently fisted away a long fast free kick by Mclean.
Final; (after Extra time); Everton 3, Wolverhampton 2.
• Haydock 5, Everton “A” 2
CUP-TIE FEVER HITS CITY FOR SECOND WEEK
January 31, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
New Attendance Record is Possible
Soccer fans invaded Liverpool today for the F.A. Cup Four Round replay between Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Crowds converged on Goodison Park from all directions, and, as the queues lengthened, speculation about the possibility of a new ground attendance record was a major topic of conversation. The present record of 74,721 spectators was established only a week ago at the Liverpool-Manchester United match. It was a unique occasion in soccer history, with the ground staging the second F.A. Cup game in successive weeks –same ground, but different clubs. Among the estimated 7,500 Wolves supporters who arrived in Liverpool throughout the morning, were the Mayor and Town Clerk o Wolverhampton (Alderman H.E. Lane and Mr. J. Brock Allon). The civic chiefs travelled with the Wolves party which left Wolverhampton at 10.15 a.m. At 9.25 a special 10-coach through train had left for Lime-street, crowded with Wolves supporters prominently bedecked in the club colours. Early birds were the parties travelling by road, who left Wolverhampton in a steady stream between 8 and 9 this morning. Outside Wolverhampton’s main coach depot 32 vehicles were filling up. There was a good sprinkling of woman among the travellers. Street vendors impartially offered black and gold favours –for the Wolverhampton fans –and blue and white rosettes for the home supporters.
Rattles, Ribbins, Rosettes
For the second successive week the city was cup-tie enthusiasm. Armed with rattles, bedecked with blue ribbons and rosettes, and brimful of confidence, Everton supporters began to converge on Goodison at an early hour. Queues were entrenched in strategic positions outside the ground entrances short after 9 o’clock. From that time onwards the crowds grew steadily as the periodical ringing of bells, whirring of rattles and vociferous cheering heralded the arrival of a fresh group of Evertonians. “What price Wembley!” they shouted, amid good-humoured banter. The operation of the five-day working week facilitated the early arrival of many city workers. Absence of basic petrol resulted in hundreds of fans using bicycles to reach the ground, and parking space in the yards of nearby houses was in great demand. At the Everton F.C offices there was a last minute rush of callers hoping to get tickets for the game. The first Wolves fans began to arrive at the ground just before 11 a.m in a fleet of motor-coaches.
Black and Gold
In the city centre Lime-street station was submerged in a sea of black and gold when the 9.25 a.m. “cup-tie special” steamed in at 11.20. Every supporter had some emblem of his partisanship –giant umbrellas, top hats, scarves, bonnets –even complete “suits” all gaily bedecked in the Wanderers’ black and gold. A lone Everton supporter who bravely mingled with the invading fans was the victim of much good-natured banter and derisive cheering. A Liverpool Corporation Passenger Transport mobile relay van directed the “invasion” to Victoria-Street where queues of specially-scheduled football trams had formed.
EVERTON WIN IN EXTRA TIME
January 31, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Fielding Was Hero at the 106th Minute
A Snap Success From Wolves
Last-Kick Goal
Grant’s Equaliser Saved the Day
Everton 3, Wolves 2
By Stork
Everton did lay the Wolverhampton bogey –it took them a long time to do it, but it was done. The game was noteworthy for defensive slips, for four of the five goals could be attributed to errors of judgement. Everton stayed the extra time the better and Fielding got his winger at 106 minutes. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, and Dugdale, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Williams, goal; Kelly and McLean, backs; Crook, Shorthouse, and Wright (captain), half-backs; Hancock, Dunn, Westcott, Forbes, and Mullen, forwards. Referee; Mr. C. Fletcher (Davenham, Cheshire). This replay produced quite as much enthusiasm, if not more, than that of a week ago. Never have I seen so many private coaches. They streets from the ground almost to Queen’s Drive and 20 minutes before the start my estimation of the attendance was 50,000 with more to follow. I saw Peter Farrell just before the game. His lip is still slightly swollen, but he tells me he is making a good recovery. Although the gates were not closed at kick-off time I should say that there was well over 60,000 people present when the teams came out to a wonderful reception, the Wolves receiving just as big a cheer as Everton. There were plenty of enthusiasms as the two teams battled for supremacy. Each movement was closely followed and when Westcott again found the ball running for him. Humphreys closed in, took the ball from Westcott’s toes, and put it safely back to Sagar.
Fielding Tries One.
A week ago, at Molyeux, the Wolves had taken charge of the game at this stage. It was not like that today for Everton were having slightly more of the attack. From one bit of combination by Wainwright and Eglington, Fielding was able to get in a shot. But he was in the act of falling at the time so that there was no real power behind it, thus no real danger to Williams.
Kelly’s Save
It was hereabouts that the Wolves had their first escape. Catterick may have been slightly lucky to get the ball under control via his shoulder, but when he did shoot he had the Wolves goalkeeper well out of position and had it not been for Kelly standing in the goalmouth nothing on earth could have prevented that ball from entering the net. Kelly however, kicked clear.
Three Corners for Wolves
From the second Dugdale headed out from almost under the bar. A third corner taken by Mullen saw Sagar punch away in the calmest manner imaginable. Westcott had few chances but when he did get one he found Sagar barring the way to success. Wright was outstanding among the half-backs –and there were some good times afield –and one dribble by the international received cheers from friends and foe alike.
McLean Injured
The first stoppage came about when Grant and McLean went up for a ball together, the Wolverhampton full back suffering a head injury and having to leave the field for examination. This was at 25 minutes. The corner which resulted produced a punch-away by Williams who a few minutes later, became a casualty with a damaged wrist. It seemed a sort of delayed action affair. Mullen was limping as a result of a knock earlier on. Mclean came back after six minutes and while he was standing on the touchline he saw his forwards, through the right wing gain yet another corner.
Straight From Goal-Kick
With four minutes remaining of the half tragedy befell Everton. There had been some hot work in the Wanderers goalmouth and Williams clearing, put the ball almost to Westcott’s feet. “Thought Humphreys pulled it away from the Wolves centre forward just at the time Sagar had come out to save. This put the Everton goalkeeper in a helpless position, and Westcott simply went on to tap the ball into the empty net. This was a terrible blow. We had suffered something similar at Wolverhampton. However Everton struck back and McLean to deal very drastically with a centre from Eglington, otherwise his goal may have suffered a fall, for at this point Everton had set themselves a great effort to clear off that goal in arrears.
Half-time; Everton 0, Wolves 1.
Everton were a shade unlucky to be in arrears and they started the second half with much promise. But the Wolverhampton defence was determined not to give anything away and the Wolves were not long before they began a search for a second goal.
Superlative Sagar
Westcott was penalised for elbows against Dugdale but even the free kick did not give Everton much relief for the Midlanders were piling on pressure and Sagar hit the headlines once more by two superlative saves. He turned a Hancock drive round his upright and almost in the next moment he flapped over a header by Mullen, who was limping so badly that he could do no more than head the ball. The grand effort was no better than Wainwright shot, which was taken as he was tackled, yet Williams was wise to get his body behind the ball when making his low catch. Mullen’s handicap was a big one for I am sure had he been completely fit he would have been up to take Hancock’s fast centre which came right over to him.
The Equaliser
Everton were quite capable of carrying play into enemy quarters but they never looked nearly so dangerous as the Wolves. Eglington took a long shot from just outside the penalty line but the ball went outside. Then came the equalising goal by Everton and it was again due to the determination, for Shorthouse could well have put the ball away put give away a corner to avoid any risk. Fielding scoring the equaliser. This goal had put new life into Everton and Williams had to save from a corner aided by a co-defender.
Wolves Work The Switch
Wright, as a week ago, moved to inside left to bring further punch into the Wolverhampton attack. It was cut and thrust, and Everton were very frequently round, the Wolves goal without however striking a blow at Williams, but one same can be said of the Wolves.
The minutes were ticking away and many viewing the possibilities of a draw but at 75th minute Mullen slipped the ball into the Everton goalmouth and Westcott , running in, shot beyond Sagar and into the net.
An Eglington Effort
The referee twice waved play on when I thought he could justly have given Everton two free kicks. The Everton supporters had their hearts lifted when Eglington with great deliberation, shot for the near side of the goal, but Williams had moved instinctively to that point and turned the ball aside. Wolves had no idea of sitting on their lead and following a tussle between Dugdale and Hancock’s the Wolves winger closed in to deliver a pile-driver, when Sagar patted down with the greatest nonchalance and their went on to complete his clearance. Kelly almost brought about the downfall of his own goal when he took a ball he should have left to his own goalkeeper. This produced corner but the corners today and proved of little value and when Mullen, hobbling along, put a nice ball up field for Westcott, there was obvious danger for Everton until Dugdale got to grips with the Wolves leader.
Half-A-Minute Goal
Forbes was dead on the mark but Sagar was there to make the save and with only three minutes remaining there would have to be something spectacular on the part of Everton to save the day. They got a corner which was speedily dealt with by a consolidated Wolverhampton defence. A free kick led to an unusual clearance by Williams. Williams could easily have picked up the ball which was going out but he elected to kick away and sliced it over for a corner. This proved fatal for the Wolves for from the resultant corner kick there was a hectic struggle in the Wolves goalmouth, and finally Grant got the ball into the net. That was practically the last incident of the half.
Final; Everton 2, Wolves 2
After Extra Time
Everton opened the first half of the extra time with a shot by Wainwright. The ball appeared to be going out, but Williams decided on making a save, and this he did. There was a possibility when Eglington crossed the ball over to he oncoming Wainwright, but Grant went in to take it, which spoiled the whole action, for the little man could only make a pass to Catterick who was well covered.
Sagar’s Punch Away
Hancocks shot one well wide. I was still a dour affair and Wolveshampton were far from done with Sagar was only just in time to punch one away from off the head of Westcott. Wainwright and Fielding between then cut through the Wolves defence the latter ending his dribble with a pass out to Eglington, who shot against the side netting. A centre would have been greater value, for there were three Everton men up ready to accept a pass. Wainwright prompted by Grant tried to lift the ball over to Catterick but did not get enough loft to the ball which went straight to the goalkeeper’s hands.
Humphreys Hurt
Wright earned a corner, which have been very frequent in this game and just on the interval Humphreys was hurt and had to receive attention. Westcott only missed by a fraction to make contact with a Hancock’s centre and then Fielding tested Williams with a nice drive. When the Wolves goalkeeper was making another save Catterick tried to change him over the line when in possession. Sagar saved a header from Mullen and in another strong Everton advance Grant shot outside. Half-time of extra time- Everton 2, Wolves 2.
Fielding’s Winner
The second half of the extra time had only been in progress half a minute when Everton took the lead. Mclean, the Wolves full-back allowed himself to be robbed by Grant who pulled the ball back for Fielding who before he shot, had accepted and beaten a challenger. His shot beat everyone. Eglington made an effort to seal the game with an oblique shot but the ball went wide. Williams foiled Grant making a smart catch under his cross-bar, and a foul against Westcott took Everton inside the Wolves penalty area.
Catterick Shoots Wide
There was one spot of trouble in front of the Everton goalmouth, yet a goal was more likely to come at the other end when Catterick was put through. He defeated Shorthouse but then to his own and the crowd’s disappointment raised the ball wide. Wolverhampton produced a round of passing which looked good but got then nowhere, and more to the point was an Eglington effort which Williams saved. Wolves were still fighting but so were Everton and they held on to win a game which had been gripping from the moment it started at Molyneux a week ago. Final; Everton 3, Wolverhampton 2. After extra Time.
January 1948