Everton Independent Research Data

 

PLYMOUTH ARGYLE 2 EVERTON 3
September 1 st 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
First step to promotion
Everton please at Plymouth
Clever play in attractive game
Leslie the First Black player to score against Everton
Three headers assists by Dean
By "Bee"
Everton have begun well by winning the first game of their new football sphere. They knew the difficulty of success at Plymouth. They knew from information of mangers, players, and others that Argyle played "their sort of game," and that very rarely indeed did a side ever leave the ground with even the consolation of a point. Everton began to reminate about these remembrances when they left the field at half-time with a goal deficit. The game took three distinct and complete parts. First, the goal by the extreme wingmen, made by the left winger and scored by the right winger. Second, an Everton revival immediately after half-time –three goals scored through the agency of Dean's amazing head –White getting two goals, and Martin one. Apparently the game was over; Plymouth floundered, but never foundered. They might have scored an equaliser in the last five minutes for at that stroke Leslie, their coloured player, reduced the total to 3-2, and Everton felt that last season's bogey was about. However Cresswell, in this period, played a masterly defensive game, and Williams, the new captain strove mightily to hold the first victory of the season. Anyway a victory is a matter for congratulation, any side winning away from home after being out of the lead for nearly one hour merits praise. But with all their faults –and it is natural that the new Everton is merely the old one in a new lease of influence –Everton managed to win this.
A Great Asset
The effect of a win where one could hardly be expected will be a tremendous asset. Everton's greatest failing for a season was lack of belief or confidence. Here they started to play against a good class side, with scheming inner forwards with a fine free style. Dean struck the upright, it should have been a goal –it was worth a goal. Time went on, the sun went down a great breeze began to blow on the 34,000 spectators, who gave greetings to two new clubs so far as the second Division was concerned, and Everton felt the benefit of the breeze in the second half. At once they got into shots stride and into the Titmass and Cann defence. They came to the second half a new team, a refreshed team, a practical side. Argyle defence could not hold them! At last Dean nodded the ball to White, who scored. White scored again –as crispy as ever, and from a place that made his task easy. Martin did likewise, and each time Dean gave the ball by means of a header. Argyle did not look the same side. They blundered. Their idea of nice combination, rather than sweeping movement, liad left them. The thought of a draw never entered anyone's head until five minutes from the finish when Leslie scored a neat goal, but not quite so charming as the first goal of the afternoon, which was a winging matter between Black and Crozier. Coggins merely flicking the ball without being able to stay its progress.
Display of Coggins
Coggins was not quite the sure man we have known since March. He had not a great deal to do, and there were times when one wondered whether the right tactics were being adopted by one wing half back and the centre half-back. However, Everton plainly stayed the heat and distance better than Argyle, who probably ran themselves out early on and helped their own downfall. Certainly the well-boomed Black, at outside left, never gave a sign of his prowess. He was not convincing, chiefly through his habit of treading on the ball or kicking outside. He had goodly chances to score, but failed to respond to the subtle play of Leslie, who lies back a good deal and works himself out for the benefit of the other players. Vidler as a centre is a plodding type –a very strong shot. I liked Mackenzie, the home pivot, and Titmuss was always a good level headed back, and now has a good sound goalkeeper in Cann.
High Praise.
Argyle declared they had met the best side they had ever known. That is too high praise perhaps, because it might lead Everton to forget their goal-area faults, and the remembrance that most of their brilliance combined with deadliness was centred into moments that passed between the forty-sixth minute and the sixth-ninth. I don't want Everton to miss their due mead of praise, but I do not want to lead them astray. They had faults in defence. For a long spell their half-back was strangely unable to get to grips with the enlivening schemer Sloan, possibly the best forward on the field. There was a time when the half-back against Crozier had left far too big a gap and his full back did not combine with his half-back. By degrees Cresswell went soaring over to his old position of right back, and he did a fund of good work, at the finish earning much applause. He stood rocklike what time Williams, overworked, had began to tire. In the end Griffiths revealed his best pivotal work; McPherson played the best game I have seen from this merurial member. He was a sheer delight in the way he delivered the ball to his wing. White and Rigby were not seen until well after half-time yet one scored two goals, and got a knock out blow, while the other began to delve into the goal area.
Joyous Football
Critchley played a quiet swift, unassuming game, and Thomson was a half-back who was not prepared to waste the ball when he had worked so hard for it. It was joyous football; it fluctuated considerably; it showed Everton as continuing their one long run that brought them nine points out of a possible ten last season. It showed Arygle as a very interesting side, a side of personality, built on good lines, and played on well thought-out lines. It was a brilliant day (almost too much so). It had little shooting for a while and then a glut –what more could one wish for? Argyle people certainly showed great sporting inclinations when they gave Everton a wonderful reception, and finally voted them a brilliant side, "happy to meet you again –you're the best side we have seen at this home."
Everton have made their first step towards promotion. The road is long the honour is a long way off, so is some of the attackers idea of how goals can be obtained. Teams; - Plymouth Argyle; - Cann, goal; Bland and Titmuss, backs; Mackay, McKenzie and Hardie, half-backs; Crozier, Sloan, Vidler, Leslie, and Black, forwards. Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell backs; McPherson, Griffiths, and Thomson, half-backs; Citchley, White, Dean, Martin, and Rigby, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 LEEDS UNITED RESERVES 1
September 1 st 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central league (Game 1)
Dunn penalty miss
Everton opened the season with a victory that was hard earned, for Leeds made a desperate fight. Everton had to contend with a sterling defence that included Townsley Milburn and Menzies. The United, without being as pretty in their attacks were decidedly effective, and Sagar O'Donnell Lowe, and Gee had some gruelling spells. Leeds took the lead when Sagar was off with a knee injury –O'Donnell having gone into goal –Brockbank opening the score from close in. McCambridge took a pass from Dunn to level the scores, and the same player added a second from a Wilkinson centre. Other incident were a penalty miss from Dunn that struck the crossbar and a shot from Jennings that hit the upright. Everton were a nicely-balanced side, the halves doing particularly well, and Lowe Gee, Towers, and Robson impressed. McCambridge was a great worker. Everton; - Sagar, goal; O'Donnell and Lowe, backs; Robson, Gee (captain) and Towers, half-backs; Wilkinson, Dunn, McCambridge, Webster and Stein, forwards.
Rhyl 7 Everton "A" 2
Liverpool County combination
Rhyl's entry into the Liverpool County Combination was marked by a 7-2 victory over Everton "A". The success was achieved by crisp and virile football. Cowan got though for Rhyl after 3 minutes, J. Hughes putting them further ahead. After Fryer had reduced the lead, Hughes score again. The turning point of the game was reached early in the second half, Hughes completing the hat trick. Dyke score Everton's second goal, and Cowan Roy and Peters put though for Rhyl. Geddas was outstanding in defence, and Hughes and Peters were speedy and virile forwards in a well balanced Rhyl attack. J.C. Jones shone in a solace half-back line.

EVERTON TURNED DEFICIT TO JOYFUL VICTORY
Liverpool Echo - Monday 01 September 1930
THEIR OUTLOOK FOR THE SEASON
Bee’s Notes
Here again in the old village, having cut my way through Plymouth and Princetown for the West Ham game (v. Liverpool) to-night. The mileage of the early season is stupendous—so far I have had eighteen hours of travel!  But it was worth the trouble to see Plymouth play Everton for forty-five minutes and then to see Everton play Plymouth for half an hour, the wind-up being a rally by Argyle, squeezed into about the last five minutes. The visit to Home Park was eminently successful.  The 34,000 spectators said “Well, we give you best; our outside left gave his worst; you hit back and won cleverly. You are the best team we have seen here."  Very kindly thoughts that may turn the heads of the Everton club and players. Let us be more ruthless in reviewing the game. For Everton have met the gentlemen of the party; there are others who will not stand on ceremony and will not allow Everton players to wheel around and deaden a ball before they make an ankle pass.  It is true Argyle play the same sort of football" and I do not wonder they are popular everywhere. They have pep, personality and punch—they have a coloured artist of rare stamina, an outside left who, on his day, is said to be the best the game has known—vide Bob Jack, the former player and present manager—and confirmation by Mr. John Chapman, ex-manager of Manchester United and Airdrie, who was present at the game and gave us due warning what to expect from the Argyle. Indeed, this was a meeting of meetings. The three Everton secretaries were there —Messrs. Cuff, Sawyer, and McIntosh, and they were joined by Director Green in due course. We just missed Mr. Jack Hayes at the hotel—he had been to prison, but it was not he who was responsible for the news spreading like wild fire in the famous goal that Everton were there.  One old lag said, as some of the team walked by, "Give it to Dixie." They are up-to-date with their football news in the confines of this dreary place.  At night I was asked the way to Mill Bay. I said: "Sorry, I've no idea; I’m from Liverpool. The man replied: “I’m from Litherland. Now mess that about."  I walked away, but was followed by the man, who wanted to know why I should want to take a rise out of him!  Explanations followed, and then we realized that we were “townies," and there had been no leg-pulling.  I must dig into the football text, and forget the surrounding happenings, except to point out that Plymouth, with a continental ground-look, should bar the foreign notion of letting everyone trapee on to the ground after the game, passing through a channel of policemen.  It is a dangerous proceeding.  GRIT AND A GLUT 
Everton had to forget last season's luckless experiences. They had to forget the bogey of the football course. When Dean headed against the upright one could sense the side saying, "There you are, we're for it again."  They felt there was no luck in the house.  Then came a winning goal—a neat goal; Coggins tipped without touching out. Everton played on desperately, yet fearing the wing men right up to the half-time mark. The half backs had been wrong, tactically, up to this point. Griff, seemed to be out of the  game—hardly seen; Thomson lay too far back, and had no working arrangement  with his full back, so that Crozier  could prance through freely and at will.  The second half was a revelation and, I think, a tribute to Trainer Harry Cooke. They played Argyle to a stand-still for twenty minutes, and from the hour they took three goals. They were the real Everton fresh- carefree, able, and very fascinating to watch.  The locals said "This is bad for our team, but good to look at." There was a fine spirit and a freshness in the manner of using the ball that made Everton look a very fine side.  I would not curb the valve of a 3-2 verdict away from home, against a goodish side for world's, but I would band out a warning signal that "so far so good" should not prevent Everton realizing that near goal there were some wretched misses that could not be excused. It was only when Everton showed their greatest grit and shot in front of goal that they had their famous ten minutes, in which Tom White got two goals and Martin got a clincher. Prior to that the work leading up to the goalmouth was excellent, at that point there was a slowness in realizing the need of the day or a shot or loft that did not pay compliment to the shooter for his inability to keep the ball down. 
THE DEFENCE 
Coggins had not a great deal to do.  He ought to have had a lot, but the Black man on the extreme left lost his ideas of shooting and generally trod on the ball or stewed it outside. His partner and Sloan, schemers both, were worn out with working for the other members of the attack. Vidler will do well at centre, and possibly the real secret of Argyle's failure lay in the Everton full back division. Williams was all powerful in this his first day’s captaincy of the side. He was all for practicability, and the bigness of this boxing man probably had something to do with Black's fall away. Add to it some very deep thoughts on the part of “Cressey,” who fought many lone battles, and you have the key to this victory. Cresswell is plainly not comfy on the left flank; he keeps going over to the right to give a hand there, and that means the right wing of the opposition is placed rather handsomely if Thomson doesn't fall back. Cresswell cut in and thus cut out the Argyle fury near the end. Leslie's goal five minutes from the finish inspired the gallant Argyle to “have one intensive spell of attack to gain a half." It was then that Cresswell, yes, and Coggins were at their best. The game, you will see, was a quartette:— 
1.—Natural disappointment that a ball touches " wood. 
2.—Argyle score; Everton sore and not insistent near goal. 
3.—Everton " twitted " and not rattled. Brilliant spell of fifteen minutes—three solid goals; no quibble:  no argument about offside. 
4.—Argyle's “slip” a goal and fight back to the final whistle. 
All through the game had been clean and good, and Mersey people no doubt are yearning to know the possibilities and prospects of the side. Gather what you will from the foregoing and add this: McPherson played the best game I have seen from him. Every pass meant an attack; Critchley and White “got to know him" and knew where the ball would come with his sure touch.  Griffiths rallied, like the forwards, in the second half, and Thomson was very helpful in attack. Forward—that is the question! Dean missed an easy chance and was slow to the stride for another; but against that I mark an intensiveness and fitness that suggest he is going to have a good season.  We cannot judge him by the goal, account these days; his presentation of goals to his co-forwards is the line of approbation. Each of the goals was due in part to Dean's work with his head. He has been doing this work for five years, and it is only now that the full benefit is being reaped. White near goal is perhaps our happiest shooter. He has a fine drive, and he will take the ball as it comes. The others are not inclined that way; they want to hold, to delay, to tip the ball, to tap it. The need is driving force instantly the chance arises. That being accomplished, I should say Everton will definitely come back to Division 1. with a leap. They have started brilliantly because they have won away against a good side; the trek is long, the trouble is severe; let than proceed on their even way, and not imagine this Second Division battle is won.  It can be and will be if the same enthusiasm and spirit is shown, and if the forwards are more earnest to take the goal-shooting chance instead of meandering around to make “just one more move." The best move of all is- to Division 1.  We shall never meet a more sporting side, nor yet more sporting officials of a club.  Plymouth is noteworthy for its swimmers, its Hoe, and its football sports. Long may they reign and succeed! 
Everton v Preston North End, Goodison Park, Wednesday evening.  Coggins; Williams (Capt), Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby. 

PRESTON NORTH END AT GOODISON
September 2 nd 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
After the opening victory over Plymouth Argyle the Everton team should be welcomed by a big crowd tomorrow evening when the opening game of the season at Goodison Park will be played against Preston North End. Both clubs, now in the second Division of the league, were among the original twelve clubs that formed the League when the competition was inaugurated in the 1888-89 season. Preston were the champions in the first two seasons, with the runners up on the second occasion, Everton were beaten by two points in that occasion, but in the third season the positions were reversed, Everton beating North End by a couple of points for the championship. In those days Everton played at Anfield, now the home of the Liverpool club.
A Championship Memory
Everton celebrated that Championship by holding a concert at the College Hall, Shaw Street, on Friday, May 8 th 1881; "on the occasion of presenting medals and League cup" I have a programme of that event. The artististes were Miss Fanny Bauffleur Madama E. Young, and Messrs T. Barlow, Eaton Batty, T. Shaw and Leslie Harris. There was an interval of fifteen minutes during which the medals were presented.

FORWARDS WHO FETCHED
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 02 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
The attack did well enough at the outset.  Then it seemed to tire of fetching the ball, the second half showing them in an altogether different light.  Urmson was mildly barracked.  He is used to this kind of thing, but since becoming an inside forward he has played well enough to cause the crowd to change their tune.  Now, in a wing position, he seems to be out of his best position.  Kennedy (J.) who takes the inside left position, is so satisfactory that there is no room for Urmson.  Kennedy roamed and roved last night with great effect; his snapshot goal of the first half was a much more satisfactory affair than Dixon’s, which was from the penalty spot, and which was literally, the last kick of the game.  Meston did a lot of excellent work, and Watts made some fine close dribbles without always being strong enough to retain his foot grip on the ball.  The best half-back on the field was the former Everton player, Jerry Kelly, who has knitted the Carlisle side.  With a few youngsters of the Cape “school” in the team, there are bright prospects.  Hutchinson is a good sharp-shooter, and McConnell clever enough a schemer to lead the line cleverly. 

EVERTON TEST TODAY
September 3 rd 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton will open their home Second Division programme this evening, when old friends and rivals Preston North End, will provide the opposition. What is second Division football like? I Fancy I hear many enthusiasts asking this question. They will gain a good idea this evening, when the kick off, is at 6-30. Club life in the lower ranks is undoubtedly an adventure, and though Everton made a good start at Plymouth, the way is long and beset with pitfalls and the players must set themselves for an arduous campaign. Preston on Saturday demonstrated that they have a good side, for they beat Southampton well, and it is plain that the old club is out to make a bid it will be like old times to see the clubs clashing once again, even if their present stated is nothing like it used to be. The two former Everton players Harrison and Kerr are assured of a particularly warm welcome, for the dashing play always pleased at Goodison Park. Harrison is still a powerful shot, and he is seen at his best with Penalties or free kicks near goal. The teams are unchanged, and the men will line up as follows. : - Coggins, Williams, Cresswell, McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson, Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, and Rigby. Preston North End; - Hampling, Ward, Kerr, Mesbitt, Craven, Crawford, Reid, Scott, Smith, McClelland, Harrison.

EVERTON'S GAME WITH PRESTON NORTH END TO-NIGHT;
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 03 September 1930
A NEW HEART IN THE GOODISON PARK SIDE;
Bee’s Notes
Liverpool will be able to judge Everton F.C. to-night. The game with  Preston North End is a refreshing  memory, because it is only two years ago since Everton beat Preston in an English  Cup-tie at Deepdale and added a Lancashire  Cup victory over the same side.  Then we do not forget our history book, which tells us that Preston and Everton  were " original " members of the Football  League, whose handbook, loaned to  me by Mr. Patterson yesterday, still bears as a frontispiece the face of my  football godfather, Mr. Williams  McGregor, generally styled " Pa"  McGregor, for he was indeed a veritable father of the game of football—a Scot  who took up business in Birmingham,  and whose memory is ever ripe to me  because he took charge of me in a football  field and taught me many great  lessons what time partisanship was rife and view-points on football were very ragged.  So I shall not forget the old gentleman when the teams turn out at Goodison Park to-night. Already some sour grapes have said, "Everton have played one, won one, and—it was against a Third Division side just promoted."  You see, they don't give any credit.  First of all, any away victory is a performance these even days, and if you add the fact that Plymouth is good-class  side the cynic says, " Ah, but  Plymouth play Everton's sort of game:  wait till they meet the rugged sort of Second Division types we know abound."  Well, we must wait; there is nothing else to do, but at least the opening win was a clean one, without the complaint of the locals, who with one voice agreed that Everton had played well and had won well. More one could not expect  from the harassed visiting side, who, I  think, will show more heartiness this season than they vouchsafed to us last season. They have got the feeling of success and an instant return to the senior class. Spurs have similar ideas, and the battle is bound to be a long one. 
PLAN OF THE FIELD 
Everton Coggins; Williams (capt.), Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby. Preston;-
It will be good to feast our eyes upon two former Everton players who have served Preston so well, Jasper Kerr was released to Deepdale a shade too early, I fear; his appearance in the home side would have had a stiffening effect.  Preston paid about 3,000 pounds for him and showed some patience, too, in his early efforts.  Now they recognize him as a stout heart and a good player.  George Harrison is a similar type.  He left Leicester for Goodison Park so long ago that it seems an eternity.  I think he has been with Preston seven seasons, and is still going strong and making many goals with that pile-driver of his that has hardly an equal from any forward in the land.  It is odd to remember Harrison and Thompson the braw back, coming from Leicester to Everton.  Thompson packed up long since; Harrison still treads the left path with considerable success.  McLelland is the Middlesbrough-Bolton Wanderers player, whom Everton sought three years ago, and were narrowly beaten in a transfer deal of some poignancy! Then the Scott at inside right is the former Anfield and Darlington player, so that to-night’s game has quite a Merseyside ring about it.  I think the greatest right to-night will be the spectatorial ring, because the Everton spectators are yearning to see the side, and to form an opinion about the centre-forward.  Dean is truly the centre of the Everton picture; people are asking.  “How is he playing?  Is he sharper than a year ago?  They mean faster, of course.  To my mind, he is fresher than for two years, and he is likely to have a great season in this sense;-
Dean is heading the ball with all his old-time accuracy; he is getting up to a ball in a heading-leap where last season he was a not short; he is nodding the ball backward to his inside forwards- and the other forwards by being up sides their centre are able to take instant shots at goal.  In an effort to get back to Division 1, home points must be all won all along the line without exception.  Tonight’s the night for the first home victory against old rivals.  But Everton must show a heartiness against rugged players who know exactly which man or men to mark- the need for practicability tonight is more urgent than on Saturday last – call is for the players to be up and doing- without undue show and without the fanciful frittering foible that was a barrier to success last season. 
“CHIMMING BELLS”
“it is very flattering to read in your columns that “Custard,’ and I hope, others, are interested in knowing what has become of me,’ and to have my views of the football prospect.  “In response I beg to state that, for reasons not wholly unconnected with the necessity to earn a modest income, I have been, and shall be, prevented from remaining in English long enough to keep in touch with the football situation as it affects the Everton Football Club.  “About January last ‘Custard’ predicated for Everton a descent into Second Division, and I ventured to contradict him.  I regret to say that he was right and that I was wrong.  It is by no means the first time I have chanced a prophecy, and it is by any means the first time I have been wrong.  As I become older I become more wary, and upon this occasion I purpose to leave it to ‘Custard’: and as the money, and the opportunity I hope his present forecast will prove as accurate as his last one did.  “Custard’ can see no reason why they should not win the Second Division Shield’; for my part I can think of twenty-one perfectly good reasons, and ‘Custard’ will find every one of them in any reliable list of Second Division clubs;- “Chiming Bells.”  

EVERTON 2 PRESTON NORTH END 1
September 4 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton gain points
Preston North End the sharper side
Critchley stands out in hard struggle
McPherson penalty miss
By "Bee"
Everton got their second win of the Second Division series and their first home win of the new series by a 2-1 victory over Preston North End. Frankly, they were favoured by fortune. Put it into a nutshell; Preston were the sharper, the more thorough, the more penetrating; and although lacking in reasonable shot the visitors so far outplayed Everton by speed and tactics that the home side had to fight very hard to the finish to keep the victory secure. The manner of the victory is uncommonly interesting. Griffiths a half back, headed a goal from a corner; Cresswell becoming a half-back or near outside-left for a moment, lobbed the ball onto White's head for the leading goal, Harrison, the ex-Everton player, having taken a goal through a magnificent drive which started Coggins by its ferocity of pace Coggins touched the ball –that and no more. Harrison has a habit of scoring against his old club, and his goal was welcomed by 30,000 spectators, though it put Everton into a nervous state that was a characteristic of their form last season.
A Penalty missed
To add to the oddities of the evening a linesman claimed a penalty kick for Everton for hands although the referee had seen nothing of the offence, and had allowed play to go on for some moments before the flag up caused his inquiry. Preston contested the spot kick, but could have saved their energy and temper, because McPherson taking the kick merely dug up a divot, and the ball barely reached the tall Preston goalkeeper, who by the way, was a safe handler of the cross ball and the attempted header.
Other than these incidents it is only necessary to state that Kerr, by falling back, prevented a headed goal to Dean; the goalkeeper was helpless, and Kerr made a flying leap and a great delivery-header. Preston had three-parts of the attacking portion of this hard game, and while it is quite true that the form of Everton was not a little bit balanced on the left flank, or in the inside forwards work, plus the difficulties of Thomson against Reid, one is left with the memory that Preston did not push home their advantage so that Coggins had quite an easy time was anxious because Cresswell and Williams were so persistently harassed by go-ahead forwards. Preston lost something of their deserts through McClelland lying too far back, and through the centre-forward Smith being unable to take the easy chance offered by Harrison.
Faulty play
There was an outburst of enthusiasm and doggedness in the second half that suggested Everton had as at Plymouth became a staying force, but this effort soon died away, and the home left wing never really got to grips with their game or the defence and with Thomson poor behind them, and White missing two or three easy chances offered him by the head of Dean the home attack was a badly timed wobbling affair. Critchley took on the major role of individal racer and dribbler and his centres were full of judgement. In addition Dean to whom the ball always came over six feet in the air, showed his energy had not left him, nor yet his precision in heading. He worked desperately just as did Critchley, and he mad many defenders to watch his step. It would be idle to deny that again Dean missed two chances of scoring, but one places the scale in his favour, through his position-play, his chase of a chance a wing man should have taken, and his persistent threat towards a defence that concentrated upon the home leader. It was not a good display by Everton, and so often did Preston attack that one generally forget that they had not a shot in their bag.
North End's Advance.
As a game it was quite a joyful thing to watch, if only because the Preston side showed an advancement upon past seasons that was welcomed by those who remember their past history. Their defence was excellent, and the form of Kerr, the ex-Everton, was particularly pleasing. He was hard on Critchley in the first half, as becomes this tousy son of Scotland, but Critchley never wavered in his endeavour, and footwork was close, clever, and speedy. The outside right earned the applause, he received as the teams left the ground. At centre half-back North End have a good young man, and on the wing Nesbit was all energy and some skill, while T. Scott, formerly of Liverpool and Bristol, was well in front of his previous displays, being sharper and more sound in his dribbles. Reid him an admirable partner yet there was the same lack of driving force near home with this member that applied to the visiting centre-forward and McClelland, Harrison was solid, convincing, and an able hooker of a centre added to which a half-chance of a shot and he forced the ball in at a terrific rate.
Cresswell Stands Firm
Through all tribuistions and trying periods Cresswell as a left back, stood firm, his kicking with the left foot was not always free off a slice or pull; however, this tactics, heading, and general defensive measures when Everton "needed holding up" was a power of use to the Everton side. It would seem that Goodison Park is still a bogey ground to the home team; the fear of defeat still reigns heavily upon the men. Maybe they well grow out of it in the Second Division games, but at least they must show most balanced forward play it they are to get out of the lower division at the first season of asking. Teams ; - Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Griffiths and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, and Rigby forwards. Preston North End; - Hampson, goal; Ward and Kerr, backs; Nisbet, Cvraven, and Crawford, half-backs; Reid Scott, Smith, McClelland, and Harrison, forwards. Referee Mr. Bateson.

WILL EYTON
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 04 September 1930
Mr. Will Eyton, the old-time footballer, sends me news of the passing away of Dickie Jones, an old footballer of the early eighties with Stanley Park, Oakfield Rovers and later Stanley Football Club.  He was tutor of the great half back Archie Goodall and Alex Dick, who came as a youth from Kilmarnock.  Dickie was a magnificent dribbler, and with Will Briscoe (Everton) completed for prizes at Hengler’s Circus, open to all England.  In later years he joined Bootle F.C., and won a gold medal, final Liverpool Cup, Bootle v. Everton.  At the time of death he was chief engineer, Liverpool Grain Elevating Co., Bootle. 

LESSONS EVERTON MUST LEARN
September 4 th 1930. Evening Express
More Snap In Forward Work
Narrow Win Over Preston
Brilliance of Cresswell
By The Pilot.
Everton, won but ….. Frankly they did not reproduce the form they showed at Plymouth, and there must be a general speeding up if they are to be serious rivals in the battle for promotion. Although losing 2-1 last night to the Goodison Park side Preston North End taught their rivals four things. That the first time pass is essential; that there must be no waiting back in hope that an opponent will miss the ball; that the sudden swinging pass to the far wing is a match winning move; that a player who cannot trap the ball first time, and cleanly, will be crowded out.
Preston were the quicker more electric combination, and deserved to share the spoils at least.
Dynamic Force.
There were times in the first half when Everton were swept off their feet by the dynamic fighting, sharp-thinking North Enders, and it was only for a period off some twenty minutes in the latter half that they produced the better football. Then they were definitely the masters. Snap was generally lacking in the combination of the Blues, however, and the majority of men required too much time in which to get the ball under control, decide on their move, and get their pass away. Their hesitancy was at times tantalising especially when one studied the instant methods of Preston. That they can operate with judgement and skill, allied with speed, was proved by many sharp and exhilarating raids in the second half, but there was not neatly enough of this material. Had it not been for the brilliance of Cresswell they would not have won. He was the outstanding player on the field and the manner in which he lobbed a quick thrown-in from Rigby to the head of White near the far post was the essence of judgement and ideal placing. Great Defence
It speaks wonders for the Everton defence that such an incisive attack as that of Preston was held at bay. There was purposeful covering and intrepid tackling by Cresswell and Williams, while Cresswell never wasted a ball-Griffiths was invaluable in stemming speedily executed moves, and his opening goal from Rigby's perfect corner was a fine one. McPherson pleased when distributing the ball, but gave Harrison too much room in which to operate, and Thomson was cramped in all be attempted. I Sympathize with Dean, who laboured along with the minimum of support. It was 65 minutes before he received a single pass on the ground. White and Martin wanted those extra seconds, which Preston would not allow them. Critchley had a splendid match and was always a thorn in the side of the visitors.
Sports Pie
Alec Troup and Harry Ritchie late of Everton, are proving the main men in Dundee's attack. Troup is playing almost as well as he did before he left Den's Park for Everton. Ritchie is blossoming into a first class inside right.

SCRAPING THROUGH; ILL-BALANCED ATTAK AT GOODISON PARK
The Liverpool Echo- Thursday, September 4, 1930
Bee’s Notes
The wind was in the Goodison valley last night, also some darkness.  The wind came upon a side that still looks upon Goodison Park as its bogey ground, and the darkness came upon 30,000 spectators as Smith stood near goal and skied a centre by one Harrison, an old man these days but still the same forceful shooter we knew when he played for Everton pre-war.  When the Jefferis-Thompson stock passed out Harrison just began to live his football life over again.  It is very remarkable, and those who marched the barrack square with him in the Guards, and those who travelled miles with him in the days of bygone Everton, remarked that he looked not a day older than first we saw him stroke a shot that positively frightened the goalkeepers.  I dare guess that Coggins has never had a hotter ball to touch than that which sizzed into the net to equal the good header made by Griffiths from a lucky corner kick.  Yet with all their passing and punch and persistence and nippiness, Preston were not good attackers, and the goalkeeper had little to do.  He should pass a vote of thanks to Cresswell and Williams for this.  They were the men, who, with Griffiths, held up the Everton side when they promised to fade out through nerves or some other reason.  Everton on this form won’t go far in Division 11 –said many people.  They had escaped; scraped through by 2-1.  Perhaps we feared Preston more than we need have feared them, remembering their lax methods near goal.  At any rate, that must not curb our praise for Cresswell in particular, Critchley in particular, and Griffiths in minor key.
BUSTLED OFF
Pace should never beat the real footballer.  Here pace was allied to a great heart and a great determination Preston thought nought of the famous names; they gave Everton a perfectly good sample of what other teams will level at the Goodison players; and it so happened that the Everton side were quite unbalanced.  The left wing could get nothing from Nisbet and his back, and the right wing was one-sided, White having a poor match, missing gift-offerings from Dean’s head, and not until the shades of night were falling did White keep Critchley moving with the onward, upward pass.  Critchley did sufficient in this game to warrant all the things I have said about him.  One of my readers reckons I am “Critchley-mad,” Well; it is in a good cause, and the outburst of applause for the plucky right-winger was well earned.  Kerr is not easily brushed past; Kerr is not shy about using the blessing of weight; but Critchley never ceased his vigilant chase of the ball, and his single-handed run-through with a shot at the end was a fine tribute to his big heart.  There is need of other such hearts, beating regularly and healthily.  Everton are at times too easily brushed aside, bustled up, raced off the ball; they make their passes and their dribbles too deliberately or too dainty.  The Second Division will teach them a great lessop in this direction. 
ODDLY ENOUGH
The game was quite interesting to the last kick, because Everton were so often on the collar and so near a drawn issue.  It was an odd game.  Everton were outpaced and outgeneraled for a long time; yet they had the scoring chances and shunned them.  Preston were worth a lot of things, and can blame themselves for not accepting them with their equally unbalanced forward line, in which McClelland lay too far back and Smith was a poor centre who was held tight by the ever-working Griffiths.  To think that the formerly lowly Preston side should be on top for three-parts of the game, and to think that a half back headed a goal and a back (Cresswell), because a half-half-back and half outside-left to make White’s goal does not suggest talent in our frontal portion.  Then there was a penalty kick which the linesman forced after the referee had seen nothing and allowed play to run for some time.  I glory in any linesman who has seen anything and by posting his flag refuses to let the game carry any effect until he has given his evidence.  Whether it was a penalty kick for hands doesn’t matter; because McPherson, who has been appointed the spot-kicker, failed as he did in the trail game with a similar kick.  He seemed to take too much note of the discussion and then half-turn, step forward one pace and crack the ball.  Actually he dug up some turf and the ball rolled to the goalkeeper.  Thus it was an unsettling experience, and Everton had to fight over again for a lead.  The lead came through a new idea of Everton’s that is worthy continued attention; Rigby took a quick throw-in to Cresswell, and a lob led to the lead.  However, our forward work was insipid. 
DEAN’S OFFERTORY
I would acquit Dean of his share in this matter, because he went for every ball that was within hail and his offer of goal per his head made him quite a force.  Others disagree with this view; it stands, however, as a considered view of what happened to a man who got the ball passed to him on the turf but twice during the game.  His heading is so deadly that I could not cavil at the perpetual height at which he had to take a “pass,” but I do say that his method is to present goals to those who should be at his side when they see him rise to a ball with his face towards his own goal.  The need for opening out a clustered goal-mouth is just Dean’s forte, but he can do no more than enlarge the position by his leap and header.  Preston deserves great praise for their general work.  Harrison was consistency and a strong shot; Reid was the usual veteran with his doggedness and his close dribbling- but he hit the side net too often for my liking; at half-back the club has grown strong by the introduction of Nesbit, and the centre half-back is a good type; add two powerful backs and a tall, able goalkeeper and you have a better balanced side than Preston has known for some years.  Incidentally Kerr played a masterly game and reveled in the duels with the right wing and his companion from Everton, “Duke” Hamilton, who has progressed till he has become captain of the second eleven.  Scott, ex-Liverpool, has also progressed and speeded up since he left Anfield.  Everton may feel more comfortable when the heavy turf comes upon them.  At the moment they are still nervy and fluctuating in their spirits.  Swansea is the next hurdle.  I don’t think they have ever played in our midst before. 
Everton make no change for Saturday v. Swansea.  Reserve team at West Brom; Sagar; O’Donnell, Lowe; Robson, Gee, Towers; Wilkinson, Dunn, McCambridge, Johnson, Stein. 
Johnson of Manchester City is hardly fit, and has only just resumed training owing to illness. 
Mr. Will Eyton, the old-time footballer, sends me news of the passing away of Dickie Jones, an old footballer of the early eighties with Stanley Park, Oakfield Rovers, and later Stanley Football Club.  He was tutor of the great half back Archie Goodall and Alex Dick, who came as a youth from Kilmarnock.  Dickie was a magnificent dribbler, and with Will Briscoe (Everton) competed for prizes at Hengler’s Circus, open to all England.  In later years he joined Bootle F.C, and won a gold medal, final Liverpool Cup, Bootle v. Everton.  At the time of death he was chief engineer, Liverpool Grain Elevating Co., Boottle. 

SWANSEA AT GOODISON
September 5 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
I was not impressed by Everton's form against Preston North End –there were faults at wing half and the inside forward positions –but having won their first two games in the second division, the side should fare better against Swansea Town at Goodison park tomorrow. Swansea opened with a 3-2 victory over Cardiff City, but were beaten 1-0 at Barnsley on Monday. Two Everton players in Williams and McPherson will be opposing their old club, while in the Swansea side will be Easton, who was last season at Goodison. The Everton team for tomorrow will be unchanged namely; - Coggans, Williams, Cresswell, McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson, Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, and Rigby.

WALES AT GOODISON PARK- FIRST SWANSEA, THEN CARDIFF CITY
Liverpool Echo - Friday 05 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
TACKLING THE CYMRU 
Everton have a Welsh flavour about their fixture that has been foreign to them for some years.  People have asked me whether Everton played better at Plymouth than against Preston. My answer is that there was a gulf between the two displays, and Plymouth stands top because of an all-round, able display, I compared with a scratchy, nervy exhibition at Goodison Park on Wednesday.  In tackling Swansea Everton break new ground. They follow with a night match against their old friends Cardiff City on Monday next—another nice journey for the writer!—and the return game with Cardiff is on the 17th—Marathon day - it is a night match, after much consideration of the circumstances, the Pageant, the Marathon, and what not.  Swansea had a glorious season three years ago when they got to the last stages of the English Cup. This was the period when Fowler was doing his “murdering “act—and song. Since then Swansea have taken Easton from Everton and Lindsay from Liverpool, so that once again we meet "old friends and new " in this Second Division spasm. Swansea are the Preston type  —they race on: they chase on; they do not let a player get the ball under  way without a short sharp tackle, and,  having got the ball, they put “beef “ into it, so that they live up to the principle  that " If the ball is in their quarter  they cannot score against us."  Bob Thompson, ex-Bury, is the astute manager of the side, and he will be certain to post his players as to the tactics to be employed. My own view is that the unbalanced form of some of the Everton players, this week, will be lost to view. The same team has been chosen and that side, to all intents and purposes, has lost but one point in the last offer of 14 points, only one of which was slipped. They should know each other by now; they should appreciate each other's needs by now. If Everton can get a solid home victory to-morrow I have no doubt about the confidence trick restoring them to a standard of play that shall be convincing and successful. 
Everton; Coggins; Williams (capt), Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby. 
EVERTON “A” TEAM
Everton “A” play Bootle C, at Stopgate-lane, 3.30, tomorrow.  Team;- Britt; Parker, Taylor; Chedgzoy, Keeley, Lloyd; Liggins, Cunliffe, Dyke, Webster, and Hanson.  Everton “A” play Liverpool “A” in the final of the Lord Wavertree Cup, at Goodison, on Monday; k-o. 6.15. 

SWANSEA TOWN AT EVERTON
September 6 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Despite their two victories so far, find a disposition on the part of Everton's supporters to shake their heads, and express the view that the side is not strong enough to get back at the first attempt, time will show. At any rate the team has gained full points so far, and that is the main object. Today Everton tackle Swansea Town, new visitors to Goodison Park, and, therefore, an attraction in themselves, Williams and McPherson will therefore, oppose their old club, and I have no doubt that the Welsh side will put up a bold show. They beat their rivals, Cardiff City, this week, and they are sure to try their utmost to lower the Everton colours. The attendance at Goodison Park have been well up to the standard, and there is likely to be another big crowd today. Everton will have the same team that won against Preston North End. The Preston team will include Easton, the former Everton player, and Bell, who used to play for Wrexham. The kick-off is at 3-15. The teams; - Everton; - Coggins, Williams, Cresswell, Mcpherson, Griffiths, Thomson, Critchley, White, Dean, Martin and Rigby. Swansea Town; - Ferguson, L Williams, Milner, Deacon, Handford, Sykes, McMillan, Easton, R Williams, Armand and Bell.

BASEBALL NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 06 September 1930
EVERTON CLUB’S SURPRISE DECISION TO CLOSE DOWN
By “Diamond”
After an existence of twenty-six years, Everton, the premier club in English baseball, is to close down.  This decision was made at the annual general meeting at the John Ambulance Brigade Rooms, Shaw-street.  Those intimately connected with the club thought right up to the last moment that such a catastrophe would be avoided, but the voting was indubitably in favour of the closure, and now the Everton Baseball Club is no more.  The reason for this sudden end is to be found in the balance sheet. A heavy deficit was brought forward from last season, but the officials gallantly hoped to retrieve their position this season.  They failed in the endeavour, for a further lose this season of over 9 pounds added weight to an already heavy burden, and clearly swayed the voting.  Every honour that baseball had to offer had come its way, and they have numbered among their players some of the most famous of men, including, recently, Jim Sullivan, the Wigan Rugby full-back, Donald Mackinlay, the Liverpool FC. Defender, Dai Williams, and others. 

EVERTON’S NEW PLAN OF CAMPAIGN
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 06 September 1930
THE OPEN GAME BRINGS TWO GOALS IN FOURTEEN MINUTES-DEAN AND MARTIN SCORE
By Stork
Everton; Coggins; Williams (Captain), Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby.  Swansea Town.- Ferguson; Williams (L.), Milne; Deadon, Handiford, Sykes; McMillian, Easton, Williams (R.), Armand, Bell.  Referee; Mr. T. Brian, of Willenhall.  The rain appeared on the scene just when it was least wanted, when people were preparing themselves to attend the match, a match, by the way, which had a special interest in that it was Swanea’s first appearance in our midst.  Also there was the fact that a former Everton player, Easton, was one of the leading lights in the South Wales team, and that Williams, the Everton cap, and McPherson, were formerly on the Swansea staff.  Considering everything the crowd was quite up to standard, but kept itself under every available covering.  Fortunately, the Goodison ground is well-supplied in that respect.  There were no changes, and the winning o the toss would not carry much weight, for it was a cross wind that blew.  Everton won the toss.  That Warney Cresswell’s game of Wednesday last was a keen effort was made manifest when he touched the ball for the first time, or the crowd immediately gave him vocal encouragement and called upon him to go forward and offer a centre as he did a few days ago, a centre, by the way, which culminated in a goal.  Cresswell did move up, but he had no intention of becoming an outside-left on this occasion.  It was early evident that Everton had adopted a new plan of campaign, and that was to play the open game, a style of play which is always disconcerting to an opponent, for to hold and hug a ball undoubtedly plays into the hands of a defender.
TIGHLY HELD
There was an incident, and the Everton left wing might easily have brought a goal when Rigby made a centre.  Williams, the full-back, deflected the ball and turned it into the side netting.  That ball might easily have become a danger to Ferguson, the goalkeeper.  Swansea, so far, had little chance to show their worth as an attacking force, for Cresswell, Williams and the Everton half-backs kept a tight hold on the forward line, but when they did make a move Easton struck a good blow against his old club mates, when Milne kept the ball in play and offered the inside-right a chance of opening his side’s account.  Coggins had to make a quick punch away to stop Easton’s effort from being put on the score board.  Straight from this Everton scored a goal. 
DEAN OPENS
Dean was the scorer, and the most pleasing feature about the whole thing was the terrific pace which Dixie put behind his drive.  How the goal originated is worth telling, for it showed to what extent Everton had taken charge.  White attempted to take a first-time effort when he got a pass from Critchley, but he failed to get a true hit at the ball.  The danger to Swansea appeared to have been averted, but Dean, ever-ready for a half chance, cut in and hit a ferocious shot which Ferguson got his hand to but was unable to hold.  This goal came at 6 minutes.  It led Everton to a belief in themselves, and for some time they had the Swansea defenders on the run, by some brilliant and effective passing and dribbling.  Still, one could not get away from the fact that Swansea could and did cause the Everton defence many anxious moments.  McMilne got away on his own, and cutting out all finery, levelled a blow at the Everton goal, and with Coggins throwing himself a shade too late the ball flashed past the far upright with very little daylight between it and the woodwork.  Just prior to this, Rigby delivered one of the strongest shots of the match so far, and he was unlucky to find it crash against the upright, with Ferguson in an unenviable position. 
FERGUSON’S FALL
However, another goal to Everton was not long coming, but this point should never have been, for Ferguson, the goalkeeper, was at fault.  When White scooped the ball into his hands all seemed well, all was not well, for, in the dismay of everybody, Ferguson allowed the ball to go in through his hands and roll into the back of the net.  Everton allowing that the ball was greasy, this was undoubtedly a tragic mistake, but it was not the only one, for Dean the centre-forward, should most decidedly have made a goal for himself when Bell shot across the goal. 
EASY FOR EVERTON
NEW PLAN OF PLAY PAYS
SWANSEA BEATEN
WHITE, DEAN, AND MARTIN GETS GOALS
Even then the prospect of a Swansea goal was in sight, for McMillian had kept close in on the of-chance of the ball coming to him.  It did, and all that was required was a shot low down to defeat Coggins.  McMillan, however, scooped it up high over the bar.  There was a quiet spell for a minute or two, and some haphazard kicking. 
MARTIN NO. 3
Cresswell was outstanding among the Everton defenders.  Critchly was a strong attacking force, and it was from one of his centres that Dean placed a header so that Martin could score.  It only went to prove that an inside man like Dean has only to keep in line with him to be sure of goal-scoring chances; 3-0 after thirty minutes was a serious state of affairs, and Everton did not show any desire to slacken off.  McPherson flashed the ball across the goalmouth, Critchley cleverly kept it in play, and the Everton attack was completed by a shot from Griffiths a few inches of the mark.  For Swansea, Milne, the left full-back played a staunch game, and he had much more to do than his partner Williams, but even Milne’s good work was put in the shade by the brilliance of Cresswell, who was a master of tactics whether it was in defence or whether it was feeding and getting his forwards.  Just on half-time Dean experienced the hardest of luck when he noddle the ball down, and found it bumping against the foot of the upright with Ferguson beat, and Rigby launched out with a shot which went cruising over the upright.  Coggins made a save from Easton, but Everton were always on top, and the half ended with Everton leading 3-0.  Half-time; Everton 3, Swansea 0. 
Everton, on the resumption, did not stress themselves for a time.  There was only one shooter in the Swansea side, Easton, the former Everton man, had two efforts, the first of which Coggins pulled from underneath the upright, the second was directed a yard wide.  Swansea lacked the craft of Everton.  They were keen and energetic, but that was all that could be said of them.  Hanford, the centre half, rarely left Dean’s side, but I am prepared to wager that the Everton man took nine out of every ten centres that were sent into the middle.  Dean was forever heading the ball in a manner that should bring goals.  Williams, the Welsh leader, was a poor marksman.  He had one or two chances which should have been tuned to better account.  So much on top were Everton that Cresswell came along with a shot that was only a shade too high. 
A SECOND FOR WHITE
When Critchley pulled one of the goal-line, and Ferguson made doubly sure, putting the ball over, it was the forerunner to goal No. 4, White being the scorer.  Some say that Dean nodded the goal, but my view of it was that White’s header touched a Swansea man standing alongside Dean, and went into the net.
WILLIAMS SCORES 
For a change Swansea made a raid, and Williams made a header which Coggins caught while on his knees, and Everton were soon back into their opponents half, but good work by Bell, the Swansea left-winger, brought a goal. He made two centres, the first of which was easily cleared but the second paved the way to a goal.  Williams beating Coggins, who only half-saved a fast attempt.  There was little enthusiasm shown by the Swansea players over this goal; in fact, it was the quietest goal that I have seen for a long time, but it had the effect of livening up the Swansea men.  Dean scored for Everton in the last minute.  The referee, however, would not listen to it. Dean had a lone shot that was not far off the mark, and centre-forward Williams was hurt as he was ploughing his way through to the Everton goal.  Rigby showed his power of boot, and forced Ferguson to make a good save.  On the other hand. Coggins, who had not been quite so safe as usual, fumbled a shot from the outside-right, but without, losing any time was able to recover and kick clear.  Rigby had another shot saved, and at this point Everton were doing all the attacking. With a minute to go, following some desultory play, the ball found its way to Dean, who from just inside the penalty area scored probably the best goal of the match. It had Ferguson beaten from the moment it left Dean's foot.  Dean had only got his deserts for he played well throughout.  Final:  Everton 5, Swansea 1

WEST BROM RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Echo- Saturday, September 6 1930
There were 5,000 spectators present when Albion won the toss, but during the first half Everton were the better side.  The home team were rarely dangerous, and lacked the necessary finishing power.  Just on half-time, however, Fitton netted for Albion from Richardson’s pass.  Everton opened brisky in the second half, and Stein hit the bar after a good solo effort. 

CATCH ‘EM YOUNG
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 06 September 1930
By Bee’s
Liverpool “A” side is working towards a definite end.  It is attempting to provide the man of the future from the “babes of the wood,” The team meet Everton “A” at Goodison Park on Monday evening for the final tie of the Wavertree Cup, and the ages of the side make the team-sheet very interesting.  Goalkeeper, Aitken (20); backs, Wilson (19), and A.N. Other; half-backs, Ree (20), Lawrey (20), and Donnachie (17); forwards, Burke (17), Chamberlain (17), Thomas (17), Roberts (17), and Lawrence (15 ½).  The forward line is surely the youngest that has ever sported the Anfield jerseys.  Donnachie is a son of Joe Donnachie, the former Mersey player. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 06 September 1930
By Louis T. Kelly

EVERTON 5 SWANSEA TOWN 1
September 8 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Dean returning to his best
Everton too good for Swansea Town
Goalkeeping error lead to goals
By Stock.
Everton, who last season could not lay claim to many of dame fortune's smiles defeated Swansea 5-1. Some will say that the opposition was only feeble. It was, but Everton could do no more than win, and they did this handsome and well, even though two opening goals were grits from the goalkeeper. It must not be overlooked that Everton had two efforts at goal negatived by the intervention of the woodwork, so the balance was fairly even. Still those first goals must have had a moral effort upon the Swansea men, for up to the time of White's first goal they had enjoyed quite a good percentage of the play territorially, but after that Everton took complete charge of the game. They had a strangehold on their rivals, and although the Welsh team were able to obtain a consolation point well on the second half there was never any suggestion that they would make Everton fight for the points, which at half-time were practically in safe keeping. It is the weakest opposition Everton have had to meet to date and it would be well to remember that fact when it comes to weighting up future games for on Saturday's display there can be few weaker teams than Swansea. So far Dean has done well, for although he did not score his first goal until the third match, he has displayed form far and above anything he served up last season. For one thing he is fit –he was not that for many game last term –and a fit Dean could not possibly be subdued for all time, for his enthusiasm for the game it tremendous. He made goals in the game as he has so often done before without getting anything tangible from his efforts, but at long last his inside men have come to the realiisation that to be up-side with him is to be offered goal scoring chances.
Dean takes his chances
Handford, the Swansea centre-half, had a mission to perform, and that was to stay with Dean. That is easier said than done. Others, more famous, have tried and failed and Handford could be placed among that latter, for I can assure you that Dean took eight of every ten centres with his head, scored two goals, and played his best game for many a long day. His heading was truly magnificent. He nodded them here and glided them there, so that forwards with an eye to the need of the day should have had goals, Martin's goal was the result of a Dean header, and for a moment I thought the inside-left was going to delay the shot all too long, for it seemed an age before he actually drove the ball into the net. So much for Dean.
Energetic Swansea
Swansea were energetic enough. They tried all they known to probe the Everton rear line, but there was not the craft the subtle movements, which could outwit such a general as Cresswell and the determined defence of Williams. They were straightforward methods, easily defined by a skilful back, and although there were times when the Swansea attack worried their way through they rarely got the better of their duels with Griffiths, Cresswell and Williams.
Cresswell has never played better. His tackling was deadly, his positional play first class, and his clearance clean and crisp, and he even entered his list of shooters, and was not many inches off the mark. There were times when the Everton's passing movements were magnificent Swansea's defence battled against it with a purpose but they were more often than not chasing their opponents with little rewards for their endeavours, Everton were masters. What effect those two early goals had upon them may readily be imagined, but that apart I liked the Everton wingers, especially in the first half. Critchley, White, and McPherson combined splendidly, and Rigby, who suffered a leg injury early on in the game with Preston North End, had a fine first half, and was unlucky not to score, for he was a rare shooter. The honours of the Everton team, however, must go to Dean and Cresswell. I thought Coggins was faulty in Some of his work due no doubt to the greasy nature of the ball.
Milne's Work.
There were few successes on the Swansea side the man to stand out above his colleagues being Milne, the left full-back. He had a heap of hard work to do, but did it calmly and well. Secondly on the list was Deacon, the half-back. He was responsible for the good display of McMillian, who was making his debut for the senior side. He is but a youth, but he should be highly pleased with his display. Easton, formerly with Everton did not come to his best until late on when he levelled a couple of shots at Coggins. Armand and Bell were useful raiders, but Williams, the centre-forward, was too closely watched by Griffiths to be a success. Dean's second goal was a real Dean effort, and was the best of the match. He took up a pass by White and flashed the ball into the net. His first, too bore a lot of power so much so that Ferguson could not hold it. White's opening goal was more of a hook back to Dean. Ferguson caught it but in the act of turning round seemed to throw the ball into the net. Martin's goal was made for him, and White's second was helped into the net by Hanford, who was undoubtedly scared at the presence at his shoulder of Dean and to prevent the latter from getting the ball he (Hanford) deflected it into his own goal. William's goal was the outcome of two centres from Bell, the first of which was ably dealt with, but the second Coggins turned out to the oncoming centre-forward, who headed it into the net. Teams; - Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain), and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Griffiths, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin and Rigby, forwards. Swansea Town; - Ferguson, goal; L. Williams and Milne, backs; Deacon, Hanford, and Sykes, half-backs; McMillian, Easton, Williams, Armand, and Bell, forwards. Referee Mr. TG Bryon

WEST BROMWICH ALBION RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 0
September 8 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central league (Game 2)
Drizzling rain was not conducive to good football at the Hawthorns, but despite this the play between Albion and Everton reserves was both brisk and interesting. Everton, for the greater part of the game, were aggressive, and on several occasions deserved better luck than they had. Albion were rarely dangerous but Fitton scored for them during one of these moments.
Everton "A" 1 Bootle Celtic 2
Liverpool County Combination
At Strawsberry-Lane. The visitors had the better of the opening. After fifteen minutes' play, Haycock scored for the visitors. Dyke levelled the scores, and before the interval Lindsay had regained the lead for Bootle. The second half was contested mostly in midfield, but neither side scored

EVERTON SWAMP SWANSEA
Liverpool Echo - Monday 08 September 1930
By Stork
DEAN’S GREAT GAME
GETTING BACK TO HIS REAL FORM
Everton have won every point to date, and points gained at this period of the season are double their worth, for not only do they keep a side at the right half of the chart but they bring a confidence to a side which is greatly needed at the opening of the season.  Swansea were expected to "shake up” Everton’s dainty methods, to upset the close plans of their adversaries by their open play and a dint of heavy pressure. Swansea did no such thing; in fact, it was Everton who called the tune by their open tactics, and never at any point did the Welshmen position themselves a victory, even the first fifteen minutes when they were at their brightest.  It may seem strange in view of the fact that Everton led by two goals at the fifteenth minute to say that Swansea were they at their beat, but those two goals should never have been scored, for it was entirely due to the errors on the part of the visitors' goal keeper that Everton were in such a handsome position, a position that enabled them to look upon their match in an entirely different.  Those two errors snuffed out any chance Swansea may have had of springing a surprise at Goodison Park, for they laid a bogey at their feet and they really never got over the tragedies, whereas Everton could afford to smile at the turn of fortune's wheel, for they have many times experienced the heavy blows which this self-same " Dame” had laid at their door. 
DEAN'S COME-BACK 
The opposition to Everton was weak, but Everton could do no more than win, and this they did in a manner which brooks of no denial. They might with ordinary luck have had two or three more goals, but luck was with the other side when the woodwork came to their aid.  One thing the season has already told us is that the Everton management need not worry their heads any further  concerning the centre-forward position, for Dean is showing form which bodes well for the future.  The filling of this position last season was a nightmare to the selection committee, but if Dean maintains his present form, and think he will, that is one position which need not be reviewed any further.  He may not be scoring so many goals, but as he is making gilt-edged opportunities for others it is almost as good; in fact, it is better for it is not right that the goal scoring business should devolve on one man, as it did a few years ago.  I was mighty pleased with Dean’s play against Swansea.  Harford tried to act the “traffic cop” to him, but was only successful in a measure, and that was his ability to keep close up to the Everton man.  He did little else, for Dean took practically all the centres that came into the middle, and distributed them to his comrade as if Hanford was not there.  Hanford got nervy over Dean, so much so that he deflected a pass from White into the own net rather than let Dean, standing shoulder to shoulder with him, make contact with the ball, for he had had a sample of what would happen if he did.  Dean has come back.  His heading was brilliantly done, and his shooting-he did not do a lot –was deadly.
CRESSWELL’S GREANESS
Swansea found the Everton defence one too good for them.  It had too many tricks up its sleeve and was never at a loss as to how to deal with their straightforward rushes which, however, were lacking in guile.  Cresswell knew the instant an attack was launched the course it would take and stationed himself so that the doorway to goal was closed to them, and if Cresswell was wrong in his judgement, which he seldom was, Griffiths and Williams stood sentinel and barred the way.  I am not going to say that Swansea’s attack did not cause any trouble, for that would be an untruth, for I can recall McMillan flashing the ball across the goal-face, Coggins making his dive a fraction too late and must have been thankful to see the ball travel six inches past the upright.  Then I thought Coggins erred when he patted two balls out when he should have gripped them and thrown clear.  Coggins has been so safe in the Everton goal that it was a strange sight to see him fumbling the ball.  His confrere Ferguson fumbled and fell.  Such is the luck of the game.  Some of Everton’s passing movements were brilliant to behold, but they were more, they were an effective mode of initiating an attack.  In previous years little ground was gained, but an onward plan has been adopted which is all to the good.  The Everton men very often had the Swansea half-backs running willy nilly without making contact, but in face of all this pressing it cannot be said that there was a glut of shooting.  Cresswell has never played better.  He has taken on a new lease of life.  Is it that the cares of captaincy were wearing heavily on his shoulders?  He has no worries nowadays.  He worries others- the opposing forwards, by his canny judgement and keen anticipation.  The great difference in the side was that Everton’s attack was supported.  Swansea’s had to work out its own salvation.
WALES WILL BE THERE
“Capstick” writes;-
On Wednesday, September 17, Cardiff City F.C, will be here, playing Everton at Goodison Park.  There are thousands of Welsh football “fans:” in Liverpool and district who would like to see this game.  But if the match commences in the afternoon at about 3.15 p.m. many of us Cardiff supporters will be unable to see the game.  The “gate” at Goodison Park would be considerably increased if the match kicked off at about 6 p.m, this would enable many excursionists to arrive here in time.  I wonder if such an arrangement would be at all possible?  Perhaps you will pass on this suggestion.  The kick-off will be in the evening, sir. 
Walter Rooney, the Everton player, is now in Westminster-road (cigarettes, &c).  He is anxious of play with some team “not very far away.” 

EVERTON "A" 2 LIVERPOOL "A" 3
September 9 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Lord Wavertree Cup Final
At Goodison Park. The opening play was evenly fought. During pressure on the home goal Kelly fouled in the penalty area, and the same player from the kick gave Liverpool the lead. Everton however, were soon on level terms Dyke scoring. The Liverpool left wing proved a source of danger. It was through splendid footwork that Wicklow put Liverpool ahead. In the second half both defences were kept fully extended. Liverpool increased their score when Britt partially stopped a hot shot from Thomas, Wicklow netting. During the closing stages Everton rallied, and Hanson reduced the deficit. Everton; - Britt, goal; Sephton and Parker backs; Chedgzoy, Keeley and Bryan, half-backs; Higgins, Dyke, Wallen, Webster, and Hanson forwards.

CARDIFF CITY 1 EVERTON 2
September 9 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton's Fourth Victory
Winners' Play fails to Satisfy
By "Bees"
Everton duly fulfilled their fourth successive match of the season of Second Division football with a victory over Cardiff City, at Ninian Park, by 2 goals to 1. The result is the most satisfying feature of the latest victory. They were meeting a team which is in the course of reconstruction, a team that has suffered much through injuries and lack of financial strength, and it is only necessary to point out that only two of the old brigade of the Cardiff side remain from their Cup memories, and that five boys played in the forward line to show that Everton's experience and ability should have been more definite than the 2 goals to 1 victory. Ordinarily it is a more than useful feat for any away side to win after being a goal down, but only the 13,000 spectators who gathered ion the gloom at Cardiff could realise what a needless struggle Everton made for this close victory. There was a frailty near goal and a lack of direct marksmanship that was somewhat appalling, because Everton were quite competent to formulate attacks which became a waste of energy when there was a paltry finish.
Keenor's Call
Everton should have taken a bagfull of goals, with the chances they had, yet at the hour there was a revival meeting on the ground and Keenor, the veteran captain urged his men to attempt to take a heart, shouting "come on boys, there's a chance even yet." It suited Everton's paucity of ideas when there was a clear passage for goal. Allowing that Farqharson kept a good goal, one is still left with the memory that he should not have been allowed to escape with two goals. Moreover, there was a definite enterprise on the part of the home side 20 minutes from the end, which thoroughly rattled the Everton side, and only the superb judgement and cool concentration of the veteran Cresswell kept Coggins safe. Cresswell revelled in this match, with head, with feet that dribbled, and with free kicks and twice he covered his captain when Williams had missed his kick.
White's Equaliser.
The first point we arrive at is that Everton had nothing to beat, and eventually played down to the level of their adversaries. Cardiff scored in the nine-teenth minute from Bird after another forward had put the ball against Coggins, from whom it went to the upright, leaving Bird with an open goal. White equalised in one minute through the agency of an all-round bit of passing with the ball kept along the turf and Dean applying the final pass. Just before time Rigby twice tried to beat Farquharson, failing each time through the ability of the goalkeeper, who eventually tipped the ball round the post for a corner that was fatal. White being unmarked and scoring with ease. Griffiths came near further goals from corner kicks, and Dean again missed one "sitter," but generally played a "heady" game. One of his headers, from a very strong centre by Critchley, was perfectly judged but the ball went over the bar. Another time Dean headed on to the bar. When Everton beat Preston they beat a rousing, racing side, but at Cardiff they beat Cardiff everywhere except in the matter of goals, and this was a serious fault in the hour of victory. It was also unnecessary because Cardiff have not had such a poor side for many years. Their centre-forward, Williams of Colwyn Bay, showed great promise, but lacked support on all sides. Keenor inspired his men by forcefulness, but the years have taken toll of this warrior and he does not stay the course, while his shooting has no direction. So far so good. But Everton in the hour of victory must remember they have no right to ease up top the class of play of the opposition. Teams; - Cardiff City; - Farquharson, goal; Roberts and John, backs; Helsby, Keenor (captain) and Blackburn, half-backs; Emmerson, Jones, Williams, Robbins, and Bird, forwards. Everton; - Coggins goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Griffiths, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin and Rigby, forwards. Referee Mr. Perks, West Bromwich

EVERTON'S ADVANCE
September 9 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
The race for promotion, even at this early stage of the proceedings, appears likely to develop into a thrilling affair. Three clubs so far have gained maximum points from four matches and I am glad to note that Everton are among them, though their victory at Cardiff, last night, was not so pronounced as it ought to have been, seeing that Cardiff City had lost all their matches and seemingly have a very poor side. Everton's form is not such as to send their friends into ecstasies, but the main fact is that their keep on winning, and after all, that is the main object in view, and no doubt Everton will improve as they settle down to the type of game required in the Second Division. I note with pleasure that Cresswell has settled down in his best form, and his game just now is as good as ever it was. Now that he is not burdened by the duty of captaincy he seems to revel in the game, and last night he played particularly well.

ONE TWO, THREE-FOUR
September 9 th 1930. Evening Express
Everton's Victory March.
Cardiff Lesson.
Risks That Spell Danger.
By The Pilot
Everton's victory march continues, but they must watch their step. The march must not become a shuffle-as it almost did last night. True, the Blues did beat Cardiff 2-1, but there was a period near the close when the home team might easily have run off with a valuable point. There was too much of the casual attitude about the Goodison Park men. They took risks, they assumed a "well-over" air. This will not do. Cardiff City are the poorest team I have seen for many a day. Everton should have won by five goals yet Cardiff scored first. The Blues quickly retaliated and went ahead. Two fine goals by White, who has now scored seven times in four matches, gave Everton the points. He played a useful game, but Critchley was Everton's outstanding forward. He always distributed the ball well. Dean again had to plod along with scant support, but was hardly the force he was against Swansea and missed too many easy chances. Martin was on the slow side but suffered in the second half through being struck in the head by the ball. Rigby, therefore, had to play a lone hand, but accomplished many good things. Griffiths was the pick of a strong half back line his defensive play being brilliant. McPherson gave some lovely passes, and Thomson was the keenest tackler on the ground. Cresswell again carried off defensive honours, and though it was a mistake by him, which led to Bird's opening goal, he ended may awkward situations. Williams his partner, and Coggins, in goal did well. The match was another lesson for Everton –they must not treat their opponents lightly it they want to go on winning. It was all so much plain sailing for them, and in such circumstances they should have kept on a full stretch of canvas. They should have thought of goal average as well as points. It was not a really enjoyable game, because of Cardiff's ineptitude and Everton's easy manner. Except for a spirited rally near the end and one bright period in the second half Cardiff were not in the picture. Mr. Fred Stewart Cardiff's secretary, told me that they wanted a good full back. On last night's showing this was not the only weakness.
Mr. Tom McIntosh
Mr., Tom McIntish, the Everton secretary is confined to his house by illness. The Goodison Park players sent a telegram from Cardiff yesterday wishing him a speedy recovery. Mr. McIntosh's reply was; "The best tonic for me is a win tonight." He received his tonic, and it is hoped he will soon be able to resume his duties again free from the worries associated with having to find a winning team.

EVERTON WIN YET CREATE SOME DISSATISFACTION
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 09 September 1930
At the end of forty-four hours of travel in eight days one is apt to be weary of football and carriages.  Yet both offer their compensation.  For instance, yesterday we travelled down with a cub lion and with a cub boy, aged ten years.  The boy duly produced a case of cigarettes and asked his elders did they smoke and would they join him.  Ain’t life queer?  One felt that there was a missing link in the Everton side when Secretary McIntosh was absent through “schreumatics,” albeit Director W.J. Sawyer was in charge.  The Everton players sent Mr. McIntosh a telegram wishing him a speedy recovery, and his reply was to the effect that the best tonic he could have was a victory at Cardiff.  Well, Mr. McIntosh had his wish and his tonic, and one can say that, so far (this has no connection with tonics), Everton have results which suggest they have done all that was needful.  It would be jolly to live in a fool’s paradise.  That is the reason for my very emphatic declaration that Everton have got the points without being completely satisfactory in their endeavours.  It may strike the average reader as impertinence to decry or deny a side that has taken four wins, which include two games away from home; but perhaps it would be more logical to summarize the matches they have won; (1) at Plymouth, an excellent display and a goal rubbed out; the football of the winners very good; (2) against Preston, hard work, an ill-balanced attack, Cresswell the star; (3) v. Swansea, an easy victory over a very poor side according to information received; and (4) at Cardiff, the second victory away from home against a team shorn of its old-time brilliance and rousing enterprise, and a victory by a solitary goal where the margin should have been ix. 
PERSISTENT WHITE 
That is a fair unbiased statement of facts, and in the last case, the Cardiff case, I am left wondering whether Everton quits realize that they cannot hope to meet Cardiff, and Swansea’s at future dates. The business on hand will be much more fierce, beginning on Saturday, when the all-conquering West Bromwich is tackled at the Hawthorns.  Everton last night suffered a silly sort of a goal, scored by Bird, in nine minutes, and this surprise spiked them into earnest action, with the result that  the persistent and regular goal-getter White, who has now a total of seven, made the scores level in one minute.  At forty minutes Everton took the lead through the same man, and that was the end of the day, as far as scoring was concerned.  But the great folly of the match was the apparent indifference in front of goal of the Everton forwards. They appeared to imagine that one goal was always sufficient margin “for this side,” forgetful that Cardiff, even in these days, can be inspired by a captain who is always calling them on to increased effort. Cardiff had their inspired moments from the sixty-fifth minute, and for ten minutes Everton were quaking. Then, having run themselves out, Cardiff faded away until the last kick of all, when they might easily have equalized from a corner kick. 
ROUSING REVIVAL 
Throughout the rousing revival of Cardiff there stood a parallel case of James Jackson.  Cresswell played as dominating a game as he played against Preston, but this time the talent opposed to him was easy meat. Cardiff have an excellent centre in Williams, of Colwyn  Bay, but for the rest the line is packed  with boys of inexperience, and Cresswell seemed to call them to his hold and  apply the closure. Cresswell was so often heading, dribbling, passing, and outstanding that one of those rare shilling spectators rechristened him “Good old Bernard Shaw and think that name will stick to him from now onwards.  It must not be thought that in my severe criticism of a victorious side I am forgetful of the spirit of the opposition and their endeavours, nor am I unmindful of some of the Everton successes.  For instance, McLachlan and McPherson had a good hand in this victory, and Griffiths merely put his countrymen in his pocket. On the left Thomson, who made his debut at Everton the day that his last kiddie was born, was very sound, but in front of him was a man who played in a dazed condition throughout the second half?  Martin had a knock-out blow to the head, and had not the raintest notion of what he was doing in the second half.  He was ill at night, but fortunately this morning he is much better.  Along that line Rigby, with his quick  throw in, nearly brought an extra goal  as in an earlier match, and it was  through his hammering at Farquharson that the corner arose which led to White scoring.  The prettier goal was White’s first point, which was the result of good connected passing along the ground, Dean applying the final pass.  White did little else except that he did not take further easy chances.  Critchley, well primed by McPherson, dribbled in close season corners and only once centred out of place.  The forward line should have had more respect for their own defence and less respect for Cardiff, for the Welsh side is frightfully placed in regard to right back.  Dean missed a “sitter” as he had done at Plymouth and against Preston, but he headed against the crossbar; got down to a very fast cross-centre, turning the ball just over the bar, and finally shot round the post.  Cardiff are hanging on thin threads, only Farquharson and Keenor remaining of the Cup side.  Len Davies is still out of harness through a fear of appendicitis and ptomaine poisoning, and altogether one felt sorry for our good old friends at Ninian.  By taking eight points out of the four opening games, Everton had done well-nigh everything one could hope for.  However, that does not prevent me declaring that the need for the future is emphatic and plain to see.  There is just a trifle lacking in the attack, a question of balance and practicability in front of goal. 

EVERTON TASK
September 10 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
Everton are set their hardest task in the early stage of the Second Division on Saturday, when they visit West Bromwich Albion. The Throstles and Everton are old League opponents, and the game should be a fine one, as they play a similar type of football. Both clubs have opened with four victories, and the Albion head the table by reason of a superior goal average. Everton beat Plymouth (away) 3-2, Preston (hone) 2-1, Swansea (home) 5-1, and Cardiff (away) 2-1, while the Albion have defeated Bristol City (home) 3-0. Charlton (away) 4-0, Cardiff (away) 6-3, and Bradford City (home), 1-0. Thus only Cardiff City, at Ninian Park, have scored against the Albion. The Everton team will be the same as in the four previous games, namely; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby.

MOVEMENTS OF FOOTBALLERS AND MARATHON MEN
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 10 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
The movement in sport is incessant.  This night-saving spell leads clubs to take a risk where kicks-offs are concerned.  At Cardiff the final moments of play were darkened, and the goalkeeper Coggins, like some others who were working for their living at the same match, found the light so bad that it was positively irksome.  We have now reached a point where everything is crowded in; the game to-night against Bolton Wanderers, at Anfield, is the last but one of the mid-week rush-tactics.  The next is Everton at home to Cardiff a week to-day, a game that clashes with the Marathon’s night, and then we may settle down to a more normal state of football affairs, with fewer engagements per week and probably a heavier ball, which will be welcome by so many players, who are at the moment suffering sore feet and a bounding ball.  The transfer deals during the out-season were the smallest ever known in the game, but there has been an outburst now that Robson has been collared by Hudersfield.  Robson, the man who slammed four against Coggins at the latter’s debut (and thus sent Everton to Division 11) has linked up with an eleven that has been fearless for some seasons.  The idea of trying Alec Jackson as a leader of attack was merely a method for the moment.  Jackson could never be kept in the hurly burly of leadership; in fact, it spoiled the possibility of his best work on the wing, with occasional darts to the centre post, unnoticed –the very charm and success of the man.  However Robson will do what Lewis did not do for the Yorks side.  Lewis lost his nerve and football strength through an unfortunate operation a week or so after he left Swansea, and he never really recovered his Welsh form.  Huddersfield were very patient, but they always felt that their great failing was a central man.  They sought Robson last season, when we were visiting Grimsby, but the Town would not part company- then.  Now they are more content to part company with a money-spinner (8,000 pounds), because they have a Coleman and another youngster who, while not so beefy as Robson, nor yet so well known, are known to be very able leaders.  Robson will suit Huddersfield, and the money will suit Grimsby.
Everton are set their hardest task in the early stage of the Second Division on Saturday, when they visit West Bromwich Albion.  The Throstles and Everton are old League opponents, and the game should be a fine one, as they play a similar type o football.   Both clubs have opened with four victories, and the Albion head the table by reason of a superior goal average.  Everton beat Plymouth Arygle (away), 3-2 Preston North End (home), 2-1, Swansea Town (home) 5-1, and Cardiff City (away), 2-1, while the Albion have defeated Bristol City (home) 3-0, Charlton Athletic (away), 4-0, Cardiff City (away), 6-3, and Bradford City (home), 1-0.  Thus, only Cardiff City, at Ninian Park, have scored against the Albion.  The Everton team will be the same as in the four previous games, namely; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby. 

WEST BROM HELD UP 
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 11 September 1930 
West Bromwich Albion are unable to select their team to oppose Everton at the Hawthorns, on Saturday, owing to Glidden being uncertain. He injured his leg against Bradford City.  Finch and Rix are fit again and the team will be selected from:—Pearson, Finch, Shaw, Trentham, Magee, Richardson, Rix, Edwards, Boston, Glidden, Carter, Wood.
RUNCORN AND ROONEY
Runcorn F.C., play Rooney (late Everton) at centre against Ashton National at Ashton.  Delves displaces Gratton. 

EVERTON TO BE FULLY TESTED
Liverpool Echo - Friday 12 September 1930
By Bee’s
Everton have had very few games in recent years with their good old friends West Bromwich Albion.  And in meeting the Albion at this inconvenient time Everton realise that they have stumbled on the biggest effort of the season thus far.  Albion have always been a side that eschewed the purchase of high-priced players; they look upon the fat cheque with scorn; they look upon the defensive style as few other clubs look at it- the half back marks the extreme wing men; they draw upon home talent.  Like Everton they could not do anything right for a long stretch, and as a result served their “stretch” in the Second Division.  These noughts in the defeats columns are to become crosses very shortly; one or other more tomorrow bow to the inevitable.  Albion have been treading very rosy paths this season, and unbeaten teams are to meet at a ground that houses more than most grounds, having a banking scheme that is unequalled by any football club.  Gone are the Keys to success; but the remaining officials have drawn to their side another member of the Keys family and also an Everiss.  We can be sure of good honest football at West Brom.  They have never courted any other type, and I go to the Midland town tomorrow to see whether the Everton side can continue its rather starting succession of successes.  They took nine out of ten points at the end of last season, and now have eight points from four games they have won.  Their form has been very good; then a trifle too complacent against Preston; followed by poor opposition last Saturday, and an almost seeming indifference to the margins of success at Cardiff.  But they continue to triumph, and nothing succeeds like success if the inside forwards are better target men than on Monday, and if the team realizes that there is need for a sharpening up process against Joe Carter, Magee, and company.  In fact, I think this visit to West Brom, will provide Everton with a real test of their championship hopes.  May they keep the victory –pot boiling.  Everton; Coggins; Williams (Capt), Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby. 
A tribute from a New Brighton reader;- Thanks so much for a most interesting report of the Everton match.  Your account gave a “moving picture” description with a clarity and accuracy peculiar only to “Bee.” And I am greatly obliged therefor.  Long may your pen run along for us. 
EVERTON A”
Everton (v. Shell Mex, at Ellesmere Port, 3.30) Britt; Parker, Taylor; Chedgoy, Keeley, Lloyd (J.), from Liggins, Cunliffe, Dyke, Walton, Webster, Hanson. 

REAL TEST FOR EVERTON
September 13 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
By John Peel
At this early stage it is pretty certain that the race for promotion is going to be a thrilling one. The quartet of teams that have gained the full points so far are likely to find their early start of the utmost value when the other end of the campaign is reached. Bury, West Bromwich, Everton, and the Wolves have won all their four games to date, but two of these meet today at the Hawthorns. This game is regarded as the real acid test for Everton so far. In their four previous games, although victory went their way, the standard of play was not up to expectations. We should be able to draw a line on the real merit of the side today, for it is expected that the Albion will prove one of the strongest combinations in the tourney. After a lean period the Midland club appear to have found a good side, and Everton must needs go all the way today if they are to triumph. It will be a great performance if they secure both points. The teams to do duty are; - Everton; - Coggins; Williams Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby. West Bromwich Albion; - Pearson; Finch, Shaw; Magee, Richardson, Rix; Boston, Glidden, Cookson, Carter, Wood.

SPOTTER CONTINUES HIS SEARCH
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 13 September 1930
By reason of the fact that the majority of the Zingari clubs take it as their principle to fill their ranks with players who are likely to turn down “offers,” the Zingari League is not a happy hunting ground for the scouts from the professional clubs, though Cyril Webster, Everton, and Alan Scott, Liverpool, are two Zingari players who have decided to adopt professional football as a career, and are at present doing well with our senior clubs. 
EARLE FULL-BACK IN THE LIMELIGHT
Harold Leyland, the left full-back of the Earle Club, is an example of a player who has made his progress in the game steadily, but very surely.  One can see the result of study and definite plan in Leyland's game, though I think this player will be the first to agree that his tutors claim credit for the' base of his improvement.  For three years he was in the Lawrence-road school team, though not always at full-back. Sunday school football then claimed his attention, and it was from St. Bridget's, Wavertree, at the age of seventeen, that he joined the Earle club. A consistently good season with the Combination team, in which a championship medal was obtained, found his form demanding promotion to the senior eleven.  A few games with the seniors saw him playing many fine games but lacking the polish necessary to lift a player from the ordinary.  An invitation from Everton was accepted and he was soon a popular captain with the "A" team's officials and players. His play both improved and impressed. One game with the Central League team at Goodison Park again proved that he could hold his own in better company. An offer of  “terms" shortly followed, but as for  business reasons these were refused, it  was a pleasant surprise to the Earle  followers to find him back again this  season. Leyland, who is twenty-one years of age, 5ft. 8ins. in height, and over eleven  stone, can be said to be well-blessed by  nature for his position. His tackles are a feature of his game, and he is equally sure with either foot. It is a pleasure to see him find his man after recovering from the tackle.  How often do we hear the amateur full-back praised for his hefty punting of the ball? Often indiscrinate kicking, giving the advantage to the opponents! By quick and direct passes to the unmarked half or forward, sometimes only a few yards distant; I saw Leyland open many attacking moves for his side. Amateurs, especially those in the rear divisions, would improve by giving some study to this side of their game. Anticipation and heading must also be strong points with the outstanding full-back, and Leyland has little to learn on these points.  If Harold Leyland continues his present form, this season should see him  representing his county in the intercounty  games, but if fortune does not  smile on him in this direction his name  will be added to those of Halsall, Tomkinson , Prescott, Morris, and  Threlfall, as the outstanding full-backs  in a club of proved ability.  "SPOTTER." 

UNBEATEN SIDES IN THE MIDLANDS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 13 September 1930
ONE GOAL IN IT AT HALF-TIME AT WEST BROM –
EVERTON DOWN BY GOAL TO COOKSON
By Bee
Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thompson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby.  West Bromwich Albion;- Pearson; Finch, Shaw; Magee, Richardson, Edwards; Boston, Gildden, Cookson, Carter, Wood.  Referee; Mr. W. Walden, of Derby.   It was most unfortunate that there should be a real good solid downpour of rain at West Bromwich today, because the home club were banking on this meeting of unbeaten sides as the big drew of the season.  Albion knew the difficulty of their task, and as the local folk had not had the chance to see Dean since he appeared here in a trial game, they were keen to see him, also the remainder of the side.  Everton were unchanged, the eleven that has stood for them in the last four games was present and welcomed the change of circumstances, the heat having given way to rather wet turf and a cool atmosphere.  The Albion ground is a very beautiful one these days, and compares favourably with the old-time Stoney-lane ground. 
COMING BOLTON SENSATION
I hear of a first-class sensation in football.  I learn that there is to be a remarkable change of front in the Bolton side.  George Gibson, the Scottish inside left, is to be put on transfer, and his going will create as much consternation as Jackson’s leaving of Huddersfield.  Gibson has been their keyman for three years and he has taken umbrage at some criticism.  This is yet another “Football Echo” exclusive.  Add to this the possibility of a deal by Everton regarding one of their full backs, and you have the latest news of the day.  A famous Bolton official was at West Bromwich today.  I wonder whether he was looking at an Albion player in the attacking portion.  Everton was given a good reception from the 18,000 spectators present.  Everton lost the toss.  This meant fighting against a little wind.  McPherson at once got busy with a cross-pass and some dribbles, but little Tom Magee, who comes from Lancasheer, made an overhead hit that stopped the idea.  The ball was crossed by Boston too smartly.  It sped on across to the outside left, and finally Edwards took a first-time shot that fled over the bar-poor shooting.  McPherson sized up the situation and set Critchley going, so that White had a long shot.  It was really too far out, but the scorer-in-general had a pot, and the shot was easily saved. 
A GREASY BALL 
Rigby delayed his centre a trifle too long so that a nice chance went by.  Coggins had to go down prompt to time to save a Boston shot, and with a greasy ball one always had a sort of fear at the back of the mind. Coggins repeated the dose when Cookson shot. Griffiths started in a manner that was rather too long drawn out, but when he realised this fault he came to with a brilliant pass to Rigby, whose centre was headed out.  A free kick for a push on Griffiths was always helpful, although it struck me that Everton had no preconceived notion of how to use these kicks.  Albion were, as over, a nippy and small side, but they had been held reasonably well and easily by the Everton defence, who were glad to see Wood centre outside.  Carter was a bone of contention—he was so able in his dribble. He it was who put Boston wide to a goal. Boston's  shot was well taken by Coggins,  and for a considerable time Everton  were harassed, to say the least, just as they bad been against Preston and  Plymouth early on.
SOME GOOD SAVES
Coggins made one of the best saves I have seen him make.  He was near the left-hand post, and Boston was placed so well that he should have given the goalkeeper no chance.  He drove in hard and low, and Coggins caught the ball as well as a severe bump rom a forward.  Cresswell came to the goalkeeper’s aid, and seemed to kick his hand in trying to clear.  Coggins got up with the ball in his possession and got it away. Albion gave us something similar at the other end. Critchley started the raid. Martin headed the ball upwards and forwards for Dean, who went inside right, and, though angled, hit a first-time drive, the ball rising sharply.  Pearson stretched out one hand and turned the ball for a corner. This was a great save.  Pearson, by the way, is a son of the old Albion goalkeeper. Coggins had to make another great save low down, Cookson being the trouble once again.  He hit one very hard and sure.  Everton had a fine-formed attack without a shot to finish it, and then Albion went right ahead with only one back to face the three forwards, who kept in such a line that they could not possibly be offside. The forward elected to shoot instead of pass, and the ball went right across the goal. A race between Pearson and Dean was won by the goalkeeper.  Everton struck me as trying to do too much finessing against a side that was a bundle of energy and endeavour. It was good, hard going, with Everton playing the prettier.  COOKSON SCORES 
Wood tried a chance shot and Cookson scored after twenty minutes from a centre by Boston, who seemed just nicely off-side to my good view of the incident. Play was in a line with me for this move. The referee allowed play to go on, and Cookson's shot seemed to have been caught and covered by Coggins, who, however, at the handling, found the ball spin on and travel just over the line by the goalpost, Coggins making a frantic effort to get the ball for a second nibble.  Finch and Ben Williams in turn produced some stern defence, and the Finch move brought a chance to the home side, but two of their forwards fell down near goal.  These were typical Albion efforts, ideals and ideas. Speed, clever sharp dribbling and worrying tactics, and Everton defenders were getting little rest from their own forwards. Coggins had a difficult task because he was half k.o.'ed in a scramble, and later got a shake charge from Cookson.  Everton's inside trio had been out of the picture and consequently the extreme right wingers had little chance.  Dean made a perfect swinging pus, per his bead, and Critchley neither got the ball right for a shot nor kept his feet when centring.  Dean made a full-blooded charge into the home defence, and the referee spoke to him about it. The crowd, now about 25,000 strong, boo-ed the famous centre for some minutes. Every time Dean went near the ball he suffered the crowd’s indignation.
CRESSWELL PLEASES
Cresswell pleased them with his judgment and his intricate footwork when a forward thought he would blaze at the ball. Everton got a bit of relief just now per throws-in, and a free-kick which Griffiths headed inches off the upright.  Martin made Critchley go ahead, and when the winger had escaped a lunge by a full-back he centred. White headed the ball tenderly, and then took a chance from the visiting centre, who was waiting the drop of the ball to make a gift goal. No one made a more perfect dribble than Carter, yet he wasted the centre. Wood went round Williams like lightning, but more practical and pretty was a brilliant round of combination by the Everton forward line and their halves, which the crowd duly appreciated.  It had no test for Pearson, who had really had but one trial all afternoon.    Albion had gone back a bit, so had the general standard of play, and there was at this point a good chance of  Everton wearing the side down, just as they had done at Plymouth and Cardiff.  Creswell earned big marks for defence.  Rigby offered a goal chance with the last kick of the first half. White headed the ball on to Dean, who claimed that he was charged in the back when shooting.  The referee allowed no penalty, and thus Everton went off one down. 
Half-time.—West Bromwich Albion 1, Everton 0.
EVERTON RALLY TO WIN
AFTER ALBION HAD LED
FITH WINNING NOTCH
Everton had hard work to win their fifth match.  It was Albion’s first defeat.  Albion reckoned the score should have been the other way round.  Everton rallied at the hour and got two goals in two minutes through Dean and White.  It was a tremendous task to win.  Everton are to be congratulated upon their steady stride, which should be added to on Wednesday, when they meet Cardiff. 
Everton opened better than in the first half. Cookson shot badly in the rain, which was incessant; and Dean’s header to Rigby led the latter to screw the ball to goal almost too definitely.  Pearson picked up with ease.  Rigby turned in to surprise the defence again, and Dean did not expect the inward pass effort. More awkward looking was the centre by the home right, Carter heading in finely.  Coggins saving. Everton had a crying chance. Magee made an awful blunder, and let in Rigby six yards out; yet Pearson was allowed to handle the shot. This was a gift pitched away.  Martin's best effort was a great header from Critchley's centre. Pearson took this like a cricketer. Griffiths tried a long one, while the Albion were being penned in. In a breakaway Albion had ill-luck. Wood hitting the upright after Coggins had saved from Boston. Albion's greatest move was an inward hook by Magee which Cookson took brilliantly, the ball flying past the post.
DEAN AND WHITE 
Griffiths wasted a shot or two, probably because his forwards were not having a pop at goal. McPherson also tried a shot of some power. White tried to force a way through, was beaten, but got the ball a second time. He passed to Critchley, who seemed offside, just as the Albion winger had been earlier in the game.  Critchley's centre was headed in by Dean beyond Pearson.  Time 65 minutes.  One minute later White took Martin's pass, turned the ball to Critchley, who curled the ball up, and White scored, to take the lead in a sensational rally, in which the home goalkeeper was hurt. White had to merely turn the ball into the net.  Albion scored what seemed to be a perfect goal near time, and the referee emphatically refused it. I know no reason for his refusal.  It had been very hard going, and Everton had had their fortune. Their inside forwards had not been satisfactory.  Final; West Brom 1, Everton 2.

EVERTON RES V. BIRMINGHAM RES
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 13 September 1930
Everton were decidedly the more dangerous in the first half and heavily worked the Birmingham defence, Dunn in the home attack was in great form, and in the last half-hour had two fierce drives cleverly saved by Tewkesbury.  The home attack combined effectively and Stein was having some stern tussles with Randle, whilst a shot from Johnson required a full-length drive from the Birmingham custodian to clear.  Everton launched attack after attack but the defence was remarkably steady.  On resuming Everton carried on the attacking, but the Birmingham defence remained firm. 
Stein and McCambridge scored goals for Everton.  Final; Everton Res 2, Birmingham Res 0.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 13 September 1930
By Louis T. Kelly

WEST BROMWICH ALBION 1 EVERTON 2
September 15 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton's run of Triumph
Two Debated goals at West Brom
Staying power Tells
Critchley gets two assists
By Bee."
Everton have taken their fifth successive victory, and, as they took the latest win at the West Bromwich ground against a side that had not been beaten in as many games, it is, only natural that this should be looked upon as a test match of its kind. Everton won-, which in itself is a satisfactory business, especially when they won against an early goal –as at Cardiff. It would appear that the Second Division sides testing Everton, races off with a dash they cannot hope to keep up, and Everton are staying the distance far better than the majority of the sides. It is certain that save their legs a good deal, by wise play rather than rugged attack, Yet it must be confessed that this game gave Everton something to ponder over. West Bromwich Albion, with their locals and a boy named Boston, from Bolton, were nippy as ever and they played some very good football, notably per Carter and Magee and Boston, with Wood generally a good raider and Cookson a willing hard shooter at centre forward. West Bromwich complained that the result should have been reversed for two reasons –first, they were superior, second a lovely goal through Carter late on in the game, and it was refused on the score of offside. The home crowd said this was the best goal of the day, and a good one in law; the referee said otherwise. Certainly one is bound to say that, placed, as I was, I could see neither the first goal nor Critchley's provider of a point as a goal –both were offside. We do not rule the issue, which is perhaps as well.
Win at will spirit.
It is plain Everton are taking most from off these sides in a half-hearted manner, believing they can win at will. West Bromwich are just the side to revel in such tactics. In the first half the home side gave their 30,000 spectators many pleasant moments in spite of the continual rainfall, and if Coggins should have stopped the shot that was scored by Cookson he certainly kept a great goal afterwards and stopped many fine drives, whereas his vis-à-vis (Pearson, son of the former Albion goalkeeper) only had one telling save –from Dean. Coggins got there when the fire and fury were most dangerous. The only time he was saved by fortune was when a ball was crossed and struck the upright –good fortune. But Everton have suffered the reverse side of the meal for quite a season so they have not been blessed out of their turn. When Everton started the second half they had the wind and water behind them, and they made a hot pace, just as they had in previous games. It was their hectic period and Critchley had a good deal to do with their goal gains. He it was who provided goals for Dean and White in successive minutes, scored about the hour Dean with a forced header and White with a tap-in while Pearson was ground (hurt). Then Everton revealed their best forward work. Until then they had been too delayed in their thoughts and actions. They had planned cute movements, and the little Albion half-backs cut in with their snappy snarling methods and snatched the ball. Behind them two stout-hearted backs, both good-Shaw and Finch –kept a tight rein on the over-pressing Dean, use caused the crowd to boo him for some time. Still, Dean went on with his work and his dash caused the defence to waver. In addition, the inner forwards at his side began to get the ball across where they intended it-previously they had been vexing by the shortness of their passes –and the visitors' attack was something more than a name. Two goals in two minutes seemed to satisfy Everton, who have great confidence in Cresswell and company, and with Coggins keeping a safe goal West Bromwich went out 2-1, their first defeat –an honourable defeat –and a further lesson to the visitors that this championship will not be won without strife long, and heavy. Everton have not yet caught the Second Division species; they feel they can win any time.
More Speed Needed.
West Bromwich came near showing them their folly. It is mainly in attack that the team has faltered; goals have been there if the inner forwards were sharp enough and willing to take a first time notion. But they preferred to daily and delay, which is a fatal course in due course. Griffiths, like Cresswell and Williams did his best work in the late stages of the game, for Albion crowded on a lot of attacks in the last twenty minutes, so that there was an open fear about the final result. Little more need be said except that any victory away is a performance, and this victory was a greater test than the previous visit (to Cardiff). It showed that Everton can rouse themselves. There is a slowness on the left, not only in the attacking line, that needs speeding up, and the absence of definite shooting from the forwards is noticeable in spite of White's continued success as a goalkeeper . Teams; - West Bromwich Albion; - Pearson, goal; Finch and Shaw backs; Magee, Richards, and Edwards, half-backs; Boston, Glidden, Cookson, Carter, and Wood, forwards. Everton; - Coggins, goal; William (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Griffiths, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, and Rigby, forwards. Referee Mr. Walden, of Derby.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 BIRMINGHAM RESERVES 0
September 15 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 3)
An outstanding feature of this encounter wherein goals from Stein and McCambridge gave Everton a deserved victory, was the sterling defensive work of the Birmingham rearguard. The winners were persistent attackers practically throughout, utilising open combination that was decidedly effective and against a team not possessing defenders of the calibre of Sabins, Bandle, Stainton and Yewkesbury. Everton would have had a heavy goal crop victory. The home attack against a formidable trio of halves were convincing –even allowing for the tendency for too much finesse –and Dunn and Johnson had a particularly good match. The former excelled with intricate footwork, and had two fierce drives at goal saved by the keeper. Johnson cleverly schemed in drawing defenders, and had one fine shot that necessitated Tewkesbury diving at full length to save. Gee,McCambridge, Robson, Bryan and the defenders were hard workers. Everton; - Sagar, goal; O'Donnell and Lowe, backs; Robson Gee (captain) and Bryan half-backs; Wilkinson, Dunn, McCambridge, Johnson and Stein, forwards.
Shell-Mex 2 Everton "A" 4
Liverpool County Combination
Everton sprang a surprise on the Shell-Mex at Whitby and deserved their win, which was achieved by better combination quicker play, and keener shooting Webster again proved a dominant leader for the visitors and scored twice in the first half with Hughes responding for the Shell-Mex. Everton maintained their superiority in the second half and Webster increased their score. Roberts reduced the lead, but Jones beat Railton, who kept a fine goal under somewhat difficult conditions.

EVERTON’S FIFTH –MORE TO FOLLOW
Liverpool Echo - Monday 15 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
This is the night that New Brighton meet Gateshead, the renamed South Shields side, an eleven that has by changing its name and crossing the bar turned into a new financial possibility after years of struggle. It is a good chance for you and to see to the Rake-lane side and take stock of them. They merit our attention and our help; so to-night we can fill in a sports evening by watching the two keen sides. I saw two really earnest sides at West Bromwich. The verdict was handsome; some say it was merited; Albion say the verdict should have been turned round; the arguments about referees would fill a book; two goals to my mind were offside; a linesman stopped the ball with his hand when it was still in play -which is all wrong—and finally Carter scored a goal the local folk said was a gem. It seemed a gem, but the Everton players and others nearby aver that it was well offside. We cannot get unanimity on these matters; we must take the official verdict, and that said Everton had taken a further victory—making five in all. The latest was the best, because it was a Test match, and against the sort of side that is just typical of Albion's history—a team that doesn't lie down to stars of fame and name. Albion fought really hard and well; they made the game a great joy, for they went into battle with a sharpness and ruggedness that was tinged with Careerism and Magee’s sound ways—save one slip. The balance of the Albion side is mainly in  their speed—allied to little tricks, such as deadening the ball when they are in  full flight; they are a goodly little side,  with some star defenders—Bolton looked  at two and made due inquiries. Finch is now plum ripe; Shaw is also very good. But neither was so good as Cresswell, who has been the surprise packet of the season—a hard dog for an old road. 
GOING AHEAD 
To come through Edge Hill Station and hear the cheers for the players is more like old times. At West Bromwich I met the other streak of football running  through the Dean family—his uncle,  Mr. Brett, played for West Bromwich  in my time—which seems to be a long  time. I met an old Heath player who has haunted me for years—Bennett by name. It appeared that he gave up football through a broken leg in which Bert Sharp had an accidental “boot."  En route we met Liverpool Reserves and Directors Cartwright and Webb, together with Trainer Hewitt, who has been with the club almost as long as I have been in your midst. This getting about brings one into old association.  Everton's associations in Division 1 often said that the club did not hit back—their style was against them.  Well, they have twice shown us this season that the heart is improving upon last year's work; the continued run to victory and the bank has brought them into a confidence that works wonders.  They have their faults, even yet; the  inside work is pretty, but a shade overdone,  and there is a slowness inside that  means a sharp defence can cut through  and take the ball from their feet. The absence of direct shot. White continues to get goals, yet he himself would admit that he has not played well. While one calls for shooters, one cannot be hard upon the man who continues to get goals with regularity. Critchley was level-headed and a thorn; Rigby did not get many chances, yet, like Critchley, his centreing was marked with fine judgment and length. Dean ploughed the fields and scattered opponents to the ground with the use of his big body; he persevered, and needed a lot of attention from the defence. That being so, I hoped the inner-wing forwards would have fared better.
THE FIGHT GROWS THICKER 
The tight for points grew very testy in the last fifteen minutes, and it was then Coggins did very solid work; he flung himself at the ball and turned it; he caught it well; he raced on judiciously.  Perhaps the memory of the greasy ball slipping beyond him for the Cookson goal stirred him. Once he had his streak of fortune—the ball hit an upright.  However, Everton are worthy a touch of fortune's wand: they have had the stick long enough. The work of Williams and Griffiths was exceedingly valuable late on, and Cresswell all through was a model of gentility and forethought. He is having a great season. Albion thus lost their first game, and perhaps they lost their temper, too, with the referee. Sometimes the growls from one quarter are frequent that you begin to distrust them when they have a genuine case.  The Albion have a bonny young side, and one can do them no better justice than to say they played tiptop football, hard, fast, rousing, and good shooting included and Everton wore them down as they had worn Plymouth and Cardiff.  They are staying the full 90 minutes like giants, and their heart is good.  They had not the backbone necessary to fight back last season; so far they have shown resoluteness and a heartiness that bodes well for the future.  I merely want to see certain attackers more definite in front of goal and taking the joy of a shot.  It is to be Cardiff City at Goodison Park on Wednesday, and if two more points come Everton’s way the Goodison Park prospect will be richer than ever, financially and in football points.  The race is a long one, however, and nothing mist be “taken for granted.”  Mr. John Fare was in charge of the party in the absence of Mr. McIntosh, who is, fortunately, improving, and among the spectators I noticed the Minister for Pensions, Mr. F.O. Roberts. 

BLACKPOOL RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 7
September 16 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 4)
In a Central League match at Blackpool last night Everton Reserves indulged in quite a riot of scoring against the home side and won by 7 goals to 2. The feature of the sensational game was the scoring of five goals by McCambridge, the Irish International at centre-forward for Everton. Blackpool, playing an experienced side, held the upper hand in the earlier stages, but when McCambridge, Wilkinson and Gee got going they frequently had the home defenders in difficulties. In the first half McCambridge scored twice, and Smalley replied for Blackpool. After the interval Everton partically overwhelmed Blackpool. McCambridge completed his hat-trick and after Dunn had added the fourth, McCambridge scored twice and Wilkinson once Lauderdale scored Blackpool's second goal.

McCAMBRIDGE GOES NAP
September 16 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Even in these days of high scoring it is something for a forward to score five goals from his own boot, and the performance of McCambridge, Everton's Irish forward at Blackpool suggest that the Goodison club have an excellent marksman here when the chances come along in the Central League match, which Everton won 7-2. McCambridge found his shooting boots, and the merit of his performance is not likely to be lost sight of McCambridge is an Irish International, and was secured in March last from Ballmena. Well built and very clever he promises, with the experience he is gaining in the Central League to develop into a very useful forward.

EVERTON AND CARDIFF SIDES CHOSEN
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 16 September 1930
TOMORROW’S NIGHT MARCH AND NIGHT MATCH
Bee’s Notes
Cardiff City are taking advantage of their game against Everton at Goodison Park, on Wednesday, to make a number of bold changes.  Sentiment has been sacrificed in a determined effort to build up a new side, with youth as the basis.  The veterans of happier days. Fred Keenor and Len Davies, have been dropped, this being the first game Keenor has missed for some time. His place as pivot will be taken by John, a product of Rhondda Valley football, who made a few casual appearances in the League side last season.  Another notable change is the introduction of Helsby, a half-back, in the forward line. Apparently this has been done in the hope that Helsby, who is a determined type of player, will add to the virility of the attack, which has been very weak.  Emmerson and Wake, having recovered from injuries, also return to the side.  The call to the ball re per Cardiff City at Goodison Park—another night match.  The previous game was won a week or so ago by a goal margin, which in itself is not exactly satisfying. Cardiff City had but need to find a goal to have heroine “Keenor." And when the Welsh sides make enthusiasm into a point they may readily go ahead and push their claims for both points. You have read all I said of the Cardiff side a week ago, so I do not propose to go into details about the Welsh side. Their greatest trouble so far has been in defence and through lack of experience in the attacking division.  I should love to see Williams, the Colwyn bay centre, again, but another sporting call prevents me.  You spectator, can see him and them (Cardiff) for yourself.  Williams has the build, the enterprise, and the shot of a true centre, but around him are mere minnows- young men who may take a year or two to become ripe for the business on hand. 
THE CONTINUED SUCCESS
Everton as a year ago have kept their best for “the other spectators.”  They have not yet shown the home crowd what they showed Plymouth people, for instance.  Which is only in keeping with the remembrance of their utter incompetence to win at home last season and the season before.  Home was not home to them!  Now Everton have sung their way home right through the season; they are swinging along the highway to success.  The last win was perhaps the most urgent and it showed that the side while successful had its limitations.  The call for insistent attack and solid shooting is still as great as ever.  There was not sufficient evidence of piston shooting at West Brom; the weaving and wavering were locked up together.  It always appeared that someone wanted to Part Company rather than pot-shot.  The goals obtained were not of the direct order.  I am not decrying them- they merely formed a snapping of the West Bromwich defensive chain.  I am anxious to see more driving force from all the members of the attacking line. Everton; Coggins; Williams (capt), Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby.  Cardiff City; Farquharson; Smith, Roberts; Wake, John, Blackburn; Emmerson, Helsby, Williams, Robbins, Bird. 
GOODISON PARK MUSIC
Aigburth Silver Prize Band (Conductor); Mr. Harry Wearing). –A Lawrence Wright programme;- March, “Crowning of the Cotton Queen”: foxtrot, “Lucky Me Lovable You”: waltz, “Silver Moon” foxtrot, “Army”: foxtrot, “Jollity Farm; waltz.  “Bye and Bye, Sweetheart”: novely two-step,. “Bunley Doodle, I Doh”, waltz, “Molly”; foxtrot, “Mickey Mouse.” 

TO SCOTLAND FOR PLAYERS.
September 17 th 1930. Evening Express
Representatives of both Liverpool and Everton have been in Scotland over the week-end. An Everton scout attended the Greennock Morton v Cowdenbeath League match. He took particular note of the play of "Hookey" Leonard, Cowdenbeath's inside left.
Tramere's Bid
Representatives of Tranmere Rovers attended the board meeting of the Everton F.C last night. They were anxious to secure the transfer of McClure, the centre half-back, who has played in the League team. Everton, however, were not inclined to part with this player.
Transfer of O'Donnell
Early Development Expected.
Early development are expected following the placing on the transfer list of Jack O'Donnell, Everton's left full back, the Evening Express understands. O'Donnell was placed on the transfer list at his own request. It is understood that inquires have already been made for his services by the Cardiff City club. He joined Everton from Darlington in February 1925, but was reported to have had a difference with the management before the start of the season, and did not appear in the practice matches. He was a member of the team, which won the championship in 1927-28, and last season missed only one game. At the end of last season he was granted a benefit. He has played in all central League matches this season, and his form has been good. A native of Gateshead, standing 5ft 8 and half inches and weighing 12st. 6lbs, he attracted Everton while playing at inside left for Darlington in a cup-tie against Liverpool at Anfield.
Forward to back.
He appeared at inside left in many matches for the Blues, but it was a happy thought which made the directors try him at left back, for he proved an instant success and since then has only missed three or four matches. He is a dashing defender and keen tackler.
Sports Pie
Fred Geary the former Everton player, has reached the second round in both the Talbot and Waterloo bowling handicaps.

O’DONNELL’S RETURN FOR LEAVING EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 17 September 1930
Bee's Notes
There are some announcements to make O'Donnell's desire to leave Everton is not surprising. He had a domestic affair with the club, which should have been left to the privacy of the club and player. It was not, and the consequence is that the player is anxious to leave the city. He came here five years ago from Darlington, and was one of the few men Everton rarely left out. He played for the side at outside left, inside left, centre forward, left half-back, and left back. His only playing fault was a tendency to juggle with the ball when on or about his own goal-line, but no one could deny his heartiness, and he had made friends with the supporters through this enlivening, hearty display. Now he desires to leave and the club is accommodating him. Another leave-taking is suggested, I knew at the beginning of the season, but was asked not to mention it. 
Everton have started in a fashion which raises hope of ultimate success.  True there is a long way to go, but the victories so far obtained will undoubtedly smooth the path and make the final stretch easier.  Today Everton tackle Cardiff City, the Welsh club which has been shorn of its former glory, and we find the club at present floundering at the foot of the table without a point to their credit from six matches.  Everton won at Cardiff recently and they should do so again tonight.  The Welsh club have made drastic changes in an effort to stop the rot, and Keenor and Len Davies will be missing from the ranks this evening.  The directors are banking on youthful players to pull them through and Everton may expect lively opposition.  The home side is unchanged and the kick-off is at 6, and the teams are;- Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, Rigby.  Cardiff City.- Farquharson; Smith, Roberts; Wake, John, Blackburn; Emmerson, Helsby, Williams, Robbins, Bird. 
“Custard” writes; - I have duly noted “Chiming Bell’s” letter and tender many thanks.  If not yet departed from the city, I wish him the best of luck.  Unfortunately, “C.B.” can see 21 reasons why Everton may not win the championship.  Well, for my part I fail to see more than three.  I would like to point out that Everton during the last nine matches have secured 17 out of a possible 18 points.  This speaks for itself, and shows the team spirit.  In conclusion, dear, “Bee,” it’s nice to know that the lads are “painting ‘em blue.” 

EVERTON 1 CARDIFF CITY 1
September 18 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
A Surprise Check
Everton Held by Cardiff City
Youthful Team By Leaders To Draw
By "Stork."
Cardiff City the wooden-spoonist of the Second Division, appeared easy victims for the leaders, Everton, for they are acknowledge one of the weakest sides in the country, and after Everton's victory at Ninian Park, in the early days of the season, most people had booked two points for Everton. The Goodison Park side, however, had to be content with a point, and Cardiff City were, no doubt, pleased that their youthful experienced team gained a half share. Not for a long time have I seen such a poor display of football. Everton should have had at least two goals in the first ten minutes, when the Cardiff youths were hurrying and scurrying after the Everton men in their effort to get possession of the ball. It seemed that the City were in for a severe drubbing, but as time wore on, and the City came to the realisation that Everton were not invincible side their position denoted, Cardiff City took heart and put up a solid front to the League leaders.
Passes Go Astray
The conditions were not of the best for football, for the turf carried a top wet which made it difficult to turn so that many well-known passes went astray, but Everton's team taken man for man, was of such superior calibre that one naturally expected them to overcome the difficulties more easily. Everton's failure to win was due to the ineffectiveness of the inside forwards. This has been their troubles ever since the opening of the season, and one began to wonder how White had qualified for the position of top goal scorer of the team, for in this game he missed great chances.
Dean's Injury
Dean offered innumerable passes to him, but White wasted the opportunities. When Dean hurt his leg and went outside-right. Everton's prospect of scoring went to its lowest abb. He had been the one bright spot in the forward line. His passes were choice. No man could have wished for better, but Critchley alone of his colleagues took them up, and once cracked a rare shot up against the Cardiff goalpost. The City's efforts in front of goal were frail, yet they might have had a goal when Williams, their centre-forward headed on to the upright. It was a narrow escape. The second half was a chapter of accidents. In some cases players were hurt through their own folly, and once when White charged Farquharson, he suffered for his daring. Then Cardiff had their two full-backs off the field at the same time but even with this advantage Everton could not score, and it was left to the lame Dean, who was off the field for more than ten minutes, to bring it goal, Critchley work led up to it, and when Dean took the ball he steadied himself and scored with a hard drive. In doing so he again hurt his foot, and hobbled back to the centre line. It had take Everton just an hour to score, whereas they should have held a commanding lead, and they had to fight tooth and nail instead of being in a comfortable position against a striving lot of young players, who went the straightest course for goal and had a shot whenever an opening presented itself, and they only got their deserts when Williams scored after good work by Bird and Emerson.
A Great Struggle
It might have been Everton who had scored, judging by the roar which greeted the goal. It then became a tremendous struggle, Everton trying to retrieve their fortune, and Cardiff well content with a point away from home putting in all they knew to hold what they had. They had to do great battle to do so, for Everton had seen the errors of their ways and pressed the Cardiff defence. How Farquharson's charge did not fall again in the last ten minutes was amazing. The goalkeeper had a hectic time, and once saved by the crossbar. The pressure Everton brought to bear was enough to crack up any defence, let alone one that was minus a back, but the Welshmen held out until the bitter end, and well deserved their point if only because of their plucky fight against odds. I have already referred to White's misses, but he was no more to blame than Martin who had a good chance towards the end. He had the ball at his toe four yards out of goal, but seemed thunderstruck as to what to do with the ball waiting to be placed into the net, and while he was making up his mind a defender rushed in and took the ball off his toe. Critchley was the best Everton forward, for Dean could not do himself justice, and Thomson and Griffiths the best half-backs Cresswell and Williams were safe, especially the former, who is at the top of his form. If Everton are to retain their position at the head of the table the inside forwards must not allow gilt-edged opportunities to slip by them, as was the case last night.
Cardiff City Players.
Cardiff City were figurers Farquharson was agrand goalkeeper, and Smith and Roberts did well until the latter retired. Wake and Blackburn were workers, and John found time to shoot. Of the forwards Williams showed a good idea of the requirements of a centre forward, and Emerson struck me as likely to progress at outside right. Bird was variable, and Helsby brought spirit into the workings, but the best way to size up the uncommon Cardiff team is to say they were workers all. Teams ; - Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Griffiths, and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, White, Dean, Martin, and Rigby, forwards. Cardiff City; - Farquharson, goal; Smith and Roberts, backs; Wake, John and Blackburn, half-backs; Emerson, Helsby, Williams, Robbins and Bird, forwards. Referee Mr. Perks, West Bromwich.

DEAN OUT FOR PORT VALE
September 18 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton dropped their first point of the season yesterday, when Cardiff City created a surprise by drawing at Goodison Park. Dean was injured in the first half of yesterday's match and will be unable to play against port Vale at Goodison Park on Saturday. This is the first time the Everton team has been altered this season. In Dean's absence White has been selected to lead the attack, his place at inside-right being filled by Martin the latter's position at inside left being taken by Johnson. The International thus makes his first appearance of the season in the League side. Team is; - Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, White, Johnson, Rigby.

EVERTON CHANGES FOR SATURDAY’S GAME
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 18 September 1930
NEVER EVERTON
A DISMAL DISPLAY AGAINST CARDIFF CITY
By Stork
Everton’s triumphal march received a nasty jolt last night when Cardiff City, the poorest side seen at Goodison Park this season, not excluding Swansea, took a point from them, after one of the most dismal games it has been my ill-fortunate to witness.  Cardiff have thrown overboard the old brigade and trusted to youth; and although they showed a heap of enthusiasm there was no skill in their play; yet Everton could not beat these striving youths.  Was it that the leaders fell to the standard of their foe?  I say no.  It was due to the ineptitude of the inside forwards, forwards who have shown a weakness all through the season so far.  They lacked definition and they would not shoot instanter.  If they had, they must have had goals, for the chances were there- but, one again, Everton’s attack was not convincing.  True, the ground was treacherous, but Everton should have profited from this, for they were the more experienced players, but the longer the game went on the worse they got, and the game ended in a tame fashion, with Everton fighting for a winning goal and Cardiff struggling to hold what they had a point. 
“UP THE PATH’
The first ten minutes led us up the path.  Everton promised a big win, but as gift goals were refused, Cardiff took heart, and overcame their bad spell.  Everton went from bad to worse, and it was not until the fleeting minutes that they tightened up their belts and set out to retrieve a game they had at one time well in hand.  Dean was hurt early on in the contest, but up to the time of his injury he had offered enough goal-laden passes to his colleagues that a victory should never have been out of sight.  It was galling to see such gilt-edged opportunities thrown to the wind by rank bad shooting, and there must be a big change in future games if Everton are to retain their position at the head of affairs.  Everton played as if they could go out and win any old time, but these Welsh opponents are not easily brushed aside, but really and truly it was not due to any brilliant efforts on Cardiff’s part (Farquharson accepted) that they carried off a half.  Cardiff were mere workers, carrying no great skill.  They booted the ball up the middle and chased it, but I must give them credit for their goal, which was perfectly engineered.  Everton pressed their defence incessantly, but where were the shots?  Either on to the woodwork or straight into the goalkeeper’s hands.  Farquharson was only too pleased to accept them, for he knew that he should have been beaten, but the Everton inside men were particularly kind to him. 
A POINT LOST 
White missed two sitters made for him by Dean, and Martin late on in the game missed a four-yarder through his hesitancy. He was not more than four yards out of goal, but seemed unable to make up his mind as to what to do with the ball at his feet.  All that was required was a shot, and a goal was assured, but his delay cost Everton a point, for a defender rushed in and took the ball from his toe. It was a sad miss.  Accidents were plentiful. At one period Cardiff had both full backs off the field, but even then Everton could not find the net, and it was left to a limping Dean, who had been off for ten minutes, to score the goal. He suffered for his daring, for he took his shot with his injured leg, and simply hobbled back to the centre line.  Everton will have to do better than this. Cardiff City have a poor team, aye, the poorest in the competition, but they rustled Everton out of a point, and this should serve the Goodison Park team as a warning as to what they must expect as time goes on. The bright outlook will soon become a black one if they engage in many games of this character, but I refuse, to believe that this was Everton's real form.  I have now seen them three times, and have not been convinced with their play, but this was the worst ever, and is best forgotten. The defence was sound, with Cresswell again a great back, and the half backs cannot he criticized, and the whole of the blame for this poor display can be placed on the shoulders of the inside forwards.  Critchley was easily the "star” man of the line. Dean never put a pass wrong until he went lame.
EVERTON’S CHANGE
On Saturday, at Goodison Park, in Dean’s absence White has been selected to lead the attack, his place at inside-right being filled by Martin, the latter’s position at inside-left being taken by Johnson.  The international thus makes his first appearance of the season in the League side.  The team is; - Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, White, Johnson, Rigby. 
PORT VALE TEAM AT GOODISON PARK
The Port Vale team to visit Everton will be; Davies; Shenton, Oakes; Sherlock, Round, Jones; Griffiths, Pynegar, Jennings, Anstiss, Baxter.  The only change from the side which defeated Cardiff is Sherlock for Cope, the former Bolton Wanderers player suffering from groin trouble. 

BRADFORD CITY 0 EVERTON 3
September 19 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Class Will Till
Why Everton Won at Bradford
Critchley's Speed and Skill
By "Bee."
Everton have resumed their winning ways away from home. They won at Bradford City's ground by 3-0, and though the margin may give a wrong impression, there can be no denying the difference between the type of game and the class of football served up by both sides. Everton were distinctly classier than their rivals, who depended to a great degree upon rush and shock tactics yet beat themselves in the matter of goal-getting by the rash manner in which they used, of misused, the ball in the neighborhood of goals.
Critchley in the Wars.
Bradford City went a long way towards beating themselves when they started to "rough it" –there is no other term for the offences –with Critchley, who began to dance in and out his rival half-back and suffered three trips that lamed him. He went off the field the third time of the offensive but came back and then kept pretty clear of the dangerous force. He hugged the wing, and with Dunn and McPherson sending the ball far up the field, Critchley was able to run his undoubted speed and discretion.
Only once did Critchley centre the ball wastefully, and he came to his deserts when he got a perfect goal near the end to settle the issue that had stood at 2-0 for Everton for a long period, albeit Bradford had done so much pressing that it was really remarkable they had nothing to show for their labours. They could blame themselves for missing the easy chances and they could also join me in paying tribute to the wonderful Coggins in goal and Cresswell and his captain.
Experience Counts.
Williams has never defended more stoutly and Griffiths has never kept so near his backs as in this game, yet to my mind it was Cresswell who gain's the big honours of the day. After their lapses against Cardiff and Port Vale, Everton decided to introduce new blood to their anemic attack. Dunne's experience counted for a lot, and he did much earnest work in the matter of foraging. McCambridge, at centre forward was taking the Dean-White place –this was the Irishman's debut –and it can be said that McCambridge did well considering his few opportunities. It was he who made Rigby's goal –the second of the day –by a wise move towards the right flank and a good hook towards the centre, Rigby's task was an easy one. Before this Griffiths had scored another of his invaluable goals –a long drive that was a goal from the moment he took the ball as it came eighteen yards out. Griffiths make and breaks goals with his reach and head, and his shot is more powerful than most of the Everton shooting stars. Actually the game at valley Parade was not nearly so one-sided as the score suggests.
When Bradford Were On Top.
There were long spells when Bradford were on top of their rivals, Bradford were noticeable clever on the left wing where Scriven was quite a thorn in the side that has still definite marching to regard to its first line –Johnson had not a good match and McCambridge was without a chance this showing that the line did not act as a line, but merely was ever dribbling unit. Stein was not impressive, yet like the remainder of the line was always willing to work and act. The trouble with the attack was not a new one –they always wanted to work a ball by one more dribble or pass, what time the Second Division defences cut in and intervenes with relenticeness as is their want.
Danger Ahead
That is where one begins to fear that this latest victory may lead Everton into a wrong channel of confidence, a belief and thought about their merits. To win away from home 3-0 should be sufficient for anyone, yet I would again counsel the warming that while the defence is still doing its great work; there is need for something more practical and resolute than Everton have served up. The ground was in favour of good football, and only a gushy wind troubled the players. The crowd of about 18,000 enjoyed the fare, and were not slow to show appreciation of the work of the defensive giants. Everton had occasional rounds of pressing that were quite a joy to see, and the ground passing of Dunn and McPherson was a thing of special beauty. Bradford found Hall, their centre, in very good form, but Cairns and Summers must have tired under the pace set by both sides. Bradford were unbalanced, and very uncertain in front of goal –otherwise they must have shaken Everton's goal lead very perceptibly.
Rushing Sides
These rushing rousing Second Division sides often look to be more dangerous in front of goal than is actually the case –it would seem so from our experience of Second Division sides. It is not a new feature that Everton win at their visits and fall at home –this has been the case of over two seasons, and the latest victory merely confirms it. With Charlton who play as Everton style of game, as visitors to Goodison Park next Saturday, Everton may regain their homely feeling. Teams; - Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, half-backs; McPherson, Griffiths and Thomson, half-backs; Critchley, Dunn, McCambridge, Johnson, and Rigby, forwards. Bradford City; - Gill, goal; Bicknell and Watson, backs; Berkas, Summers, and Gauld half-backs; Woodhouse, Moore Hall, Cairn (captain) and Scrivan, forwards.

EVERTON IN FULL SWING FOR THE SIXTH WIN?
Liverpool Echo - Friday 19 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
THEIR FIRST VISIT TO THE CITY 
Port Vale Football Club have never been to our city before except to pass through to New Brighton and Tranmere, where they gave us a delightful exhibition of football. Port Vale is not an age-old side; they have had many troubles since Mr. John McKenna was at the opening performance. Burslem suffers through the name of Port Vale and vice versa; just as people mix the title Bournemouth which is an amateur side) and Boscombe and Bournemouth.  Some time ago they moved their ground and there was talk of going back to the old spot, where they could always get good attendances. This further change has not come about just yet because Port Vale have been moving ahead steadily in their new circles and have proved that the Third Division is not their class or standing.  They play good football, have always been built on those lines and merit our attention, for that reason alone. Everton have realized that their football fare was good enough, if they had allied to it a certain definiteness and punch in front of goal. A good start is half the battle; that's an old, true saying, which can be knocked down instantly by the remembrance that " half the battle " may be won but the effect of winning early matches is that the team rises almost too fast to the top rung and every club it meets is desirous of knocking the club off its lofty perch. Everton, in short, have from now on a series of cup-ties to contend with. They have beaten one or two good sides, and drawn once at home, and have won away against three clubs, but the chart shows that some of the sides from which they have taken full toll are footing the chart. This should be a lesson to us to take the form as it stands and not believe that Everton are walking back to the First Division status.  It needs a very urgent pull of every player.  They should move ahead to-morrow,  aided by the enthusiasm of a huge  crowd that is certain to line up with the players when this team takes the field; Everton; Coggins; Williams (capt), Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, White, Johnson, Rigby.  Port Vale; Davies; Shenton, Oakes; Sherlock, Round, Jones; Griffiths, Pynegar, Jennings, Anstss, Baxter. 
EVERTON A TEAM
Everton A (v. High Park, Southport, 3.30); From; Brookfield; Parker, Taylor; B. Lloyd, Towers, Keeley, and J. Llody; Liggins, Cunliffe, Walton, Simpson, and Hanson.

PORT VALE VISIT EVERTON
September 20 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Grounds are likely to be a trifle holding, but I always believe that scientific play is more fully brought out under such conditions. The chief attraction today is the visit of Port Vale to Goodison Park. Everton's Second Division career means new visitors and the team, which gained promotion last term will try their skill against their more famous opponents. Everton sustained their first check in the promotion race during the week and they must, if at all possible, making up for that false step today. The loss of Dean will be severely felt, for the centre-forward appeared to be regaining some of his old form. In his absence, though the injury sustained in the Cardiff match. White will take up the centre-forward berth and Johnson comes in at inside left, this being the first alteration in the side this season. The Potteries team will make a good fight but Everton should prove successful. They cannot afford to drop home points. The kick-off is at 3-15, and the teams are; - Everton; - Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, White, Johnson, Rigby. Port Vale; - Davies; Shonton, Oakes; Sherlock, Round, Jones; Griffiths, Pynegar, Jennings, Anstiss, Baxter.

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo – Saturday September 20 1930
By Louis T. Kelly

STOCKPORT RES V EVERTON RES
Liverpool Echo – Saturday September 20 1930
McCAMBRIDGE CONTINUES IN A SCORING VEIN
Everton were the first to score, Dunn working the ball from midfield and passing to Webster, who put in some combination work with McCambridge.  They worked their way through the County defence, and McCambridge scored.  Stockport were not long in equalizing, Keating beating Sagar after the latter had cleared a terrific shot from the same player.  There was little to choose between the play of the two teams.  Half-time- 1 each. 

WHITE GETS USUAL FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 20 September 1930
WHEN THE CROWD ROARED THE OTHER WAY – PORT VALE PUSHFULNESS
By “Buzz”
Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Martin, White, Johnson, Rigby.  Port Vale; Davies; Shenton, Oakes; Sherlock, Round; Jones, Griffiths, Pynegar, Jennings, Anstiss, Baxter.  Referee; Mr. G.C. Smith of Ashton-under-Lynn. 
Considering it is only a mere fraction  of a season since a Port Vale were  members of the glorious Third Division,  it was kind, nay, rather pessimistic of  Everton F.C.'s following to deign to grace the proceedings at Goodison to-day  with their presence.  Not a few of them were apprehensive of the battle between the what-must-be-high-class  and not-so-high-class in view  of the way Everton had played two or  three days before against Cardiff.  The weather was ideal so that the crowd was, for this fixture, unusually large it only goes to show that a winning team can command a following irrespective of its sphere of activity.  There were no changes.  Port Vale got a special cheer for what must be their first League appearance at this ground, and while they tested their shooting boots at one end the Everton Blues, plus their mascot, showed they knew the way to goal at the other end.
DEAN IN SPLINTS 
At the outset it will be of interest to Everton folk to know that Dean has strained a main ligament in his ankle, and is to have it in splints for a week.  The opening was sharp and to the point, and in two minutes we had seen a danger move at both ends. Everton took part in the first, and Critchley slipped the ball past his man with perfect judgment, shouldered off what a defender had advertised as a shoulder charge, and delivered an unlucky centre. Which was brushed aside by Oakes.  Jennings, within a half-minute, narrowly failed to get an opening. Everton moved up again, only to find that Oakes was at his best, and not only was content to tackle and retain the ball, but make progress yards up the field before he decided to put it to good use. What should have produced a goal was an unselfish pass made by White for the benefit of Martin, but the latter took pot luck with his chance, and sliced the ball outside when a goal looked almost a certainty.  McPherson became outside right, and, although he should never have been allowed to do so, nearly got the better of Oakes in a duel, then seemed to return the Port Vale man’s compliments by allowing him a fairly easy clearance.  The ex-Balton, Round, stopped a real snorter with jaw, but unlike the prevailing heavyweight, he did not adopt a horizontal position, but merely fingered his chin for some time afterwards.  Port Vale seemed to have lost their pointedness, for which they have substituted a finer and more classic football, but against Critchley in particular they found a man on whom tackling was as elusive as possible.  Critchly had been well worked so far, and he was successful until he made a rank bad centre of the ball when the way seemed paved for a goal.  It was hard to understand why Everton should be so tied up by the offside tactics employed against them, but the fact remains that there were times when the forward line stood still, and were at a complete loss as tp the correct procedure in the emergency of being made to be offside.  So far Port Vale had not finished any too well, but they improved, and the work by which Griffiths was enabled to make a low shot at an acute angle was quite good.
WHITE AGAIN
Still they made some very expensive mistakes in attempting to play the game as it should be played rather than in a way to upset the opposition.  As evidencing the fickleness of football and its following, it is only necessary to say that a matter of seconds after critchly had been openly criticized for passing back to Cresswell the ball was in the net as a result of this move, McPherson providing White with a splendid pass from which the scorer hooked the ball past the oncoming Shenton and into right hand corner.  White and Round got at loggerheads, and there was a suggestion of some kicking, the position not being helped by the fact that Davies was injured through Martin running on to enthusiastically, and dangerously.  However, the trouble soon went below the surface, and Critchley sent up high hopes and almost as high a shot in an effort to improve the shinning hour.  Baxter was offside when he received a square pass, but he was not aware of the fact, or rather he did not seem to be aware of the fact, and attempted a flashy kind of volley, whereas White tried a glancing header, which was never near the mark.  Just on show how keen were the visiting side, the example when Critchley was covered out by no fewer than three men was typical of others.  Warney Cresswell’s bald pate hobbed up to head away for a corner, a centre which would otherwise have carried a weight of trouble for Everton’s defence, and this was the only relief Port Vale got for their defence.  Half-time- Everton 1, Port Vale 0. 
At the close of the Everton game Davies, the Port Vale goalkeeper, was given an ovation. This might have been applied to each one of the successful visiting side who won in a great recovery after being two goals down.  Port Vale never looked like winning until they scored at the 70th minute.  Once on level terms they soon produced a match-winning shot.  Everton had chances, but failed to push them to the last gasp. The winners were determined, and it their football skill was not equal to that of Everton's, they were worth the points if only for their spirit and punchful finishing.
The rain had stopped by the time the second half began, and Critchley and Griffiths soon made their presence felt with two good shots, while Johnson made a good header just wide of the mark and well covered by a flying dive by Oakes.  Port Vale plodded on and were nearly rewarded from a corner kick put over by Baxter, Jennings back-heeling the ball against Coggins, when the latter was on the ground. 
A MINOR SCARE 
It was a distinct let-off for Everton, and they showed their appreciation by going straight to the other end, where Griffiths made a splendid header, and one of the sequels was a minor scene, Davies falling to the ground with the ball and, being challenged for possession, bringing to his aid the two full backs, who unceremoniously barged White out of the landscape.  A wise judge of football law gave it as his opinion that the correct decision would have been a penalty kick for Everton.  After Everton had attacked for long spells with some poor finishing, Rigby, who had been a persistent shooter, squeezed the ball between the posts and Davies, at the 64th minute, to the great joy of the crowd.  Port Vale's recovery was sharp, and caused a great sensation. Baxter banged in the bill for his side's first goal at 70 minutes. Pynegar got another grand goal, to make the score level, and Anstiss at the 77th minute completed Everton's downfall.  The cheers which greeted this turn round might have been for goals scored by Everton. It was an amazing recovery, and quite unexpected by even the most pessimistic Evertonian.  The winners deserved their success if only for their determination in the face of odds. Everton had had chances, and had failed to use them, whereas Port Vale had had few, and had to work tremendously hard for their victory.  Final:—  Everton 2 Port Vale 3

EVERTON 2 PORT VALE 3
September 22 nd 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
The Pluck of Port Vale
Recovery Which Won Two Points
Everton's Weak Finishing
Everton's first fall this term was a blow at a point which confidence in the side pointed to anything rather than a home defeat. That Port Vale should win by 3 goals to 2 after being two down in the second half only added bitterness to an expense throwing away of points. Unlike so many of the comparatively minor sides that have upset Everon Port Vale did not shock the opposition out of playing their usual game. They merely scored three fine goals when three chances offered. Everton had move of the game had scoring chances in plenty, and never looked like yielding to a supposedly weak eleven. In that comparison Everton are shown to have lost their way by their own mistakes. It was galling to see the hard work, which preceded an opening being so uselessly ended by finishing which suggested that the forward line could score at a word of command. Given the persistence and patience, which carried the day for the winners who can say to what extent Everton would have triumphed? Certainly they would have placed themselves, in forty-five minutes beyond reach of any recovery Port Vale were capable of putting up. In fact White's shot which hooked round a full back and earned a goal was the only real result of long periods of attacking in which Port Vale were made to look almost hopelessly outclassed, and at least not worthy of a win.
Skidding Surface.
With a heavy fall of rain, the ground became a skating ring. The fact that the surface gave the ball a skidding motion had no bearing on the change about, as Rigby squeezed the ball past Davies soon after the restart. How valuable a goal is to Port Vale's type of persevering eleven was proved when Baxter's goal transformed them from dreary strugglers on to triumphant teachers of the method of correct attacking. Pynegar and Anstiss each scored a great goal, and although Everton were sometimes near equalising they failed.
Ovation For Goalkeeper.
Davies, the Port vale keeper, was rightly given an ovation at the close. His display deserved something of this manner, and it was good to see a crowd, which must have been disappointed act so generous. The goalkeeper made at least three magnificent saves. Critchley had two shots to everyone's one, but his centring of the ball was not always in accord with the excellent way be beat his man. The only fault one could lay on the shoulders of the attacks was the most important one any five men can be guilty of. Otherwise their work was good. As showing Everton's pointed superiority for the biggest part of the match, as is only necessary to say that Coggins was tamely troubled at any time, but he was beaten three times on shots he could not be expected to touch. Not a little of the winners' success was due to Oakes, who played for Port Vale since Perk was there. In the main however, it was pluck and doggedness, which made a win possible, and in this respect Port Vale, as a team, showed a superabundance of both assets. Teams ; - Everton; - Coggins, goal; Williams (captain) and Cresswell, backs; McPherson, Griffiths, and Thomson half-backs; Critchley, Martin, White, Johnson and Rigby, forwards. Port Vale; - Davies goal; Shenton and Oakes, backs; Sherlock, Round and Jones half-backs; Griffiths, Pynegar, Jenkins, Anstiss and Baxter, forwards. Referee Mr. J.C. Smith.

STOCKPORT COUNTY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVRS 2
September 22 nd 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 5)
Stockport penalty miss
At Stockport on greasy turf, both sides missed chances. Stockport did most attacking, but the Everton backs were sound. McCambridge scored for Everton after twenty-five minutes, and Keating equalised seven minutes later, but Dunn gave the visitors the lead again. In the second half Keating failed with a penalty kick. Rathbone played a good game for Everton.
Southport High Park 4 Everton "A" 4
Liverpool County Combination.
Everton took the lead through Simpson owing to a slip by the home goalkeeper. Afterwards Hanson increased their lead, but towards half-time Park improved, and Vicars and Rimmer (Penalty) put their side level. In the second half Liggin and Towers scored for the visitors while Parker netted twice for High Park.

BLOWS FOR MERSEYSIDE
Liverpool Echo –Monday, September 22, 1930
HOME DEFEAT THAT SHAKES THE CONFIDENCE
By Buzz
The Stein Song has been cast aside by Everton. 
Their song to-day is” When You Go Down the Vale.”
The biggest things of Saturday were defeat of Everton at home and the absence of success of the Chelsea star attackers, Wrexham’s fine margin, Liverpool’s skill and brilliance at Aston, and Louis Page’s astounding record of registering his 101st goal for Burnley in five years’ service, with only one change of scoring position-centre forward, when he got six in one game.  Louis is today showing his wares at Linacre-road, opposite Bryant & May’s; brother Tom is at 100, Bridge-road, Litherland, looking for a football job near home.  And to think these Pages were our own city boys, and that Louis yearned to play for our teams and was turned away! Funny game, football.  Doubt me?  Then ask the Everton club; yet he who reads these notes could run through the criticism of the last few matches and find that a storm was browing-a home defeat was lurking through the very urgent reason that the inside forwards were not playing well; easy chances of scoring were cast away in the belief that any old time would do.  Thus have three home points slipped out of their grip in this wet week.  Let me tell you of more pleasant things.  I yield to no one in commendation of the Aston Villa style of play over generations.  I was carried on a back to their Perry Bar performances, and I think I know their style.  Well, Liverpool not only played them at their own game, but really beat them at this on Saturday, before 34,000 admiring spectators.  If you doubt my word let me quote you men who know the game, having captained the Villa in their time.  Howard Spencer said; “I am content with the result, of course, but not with the home team’s display.  Your men played splendidly and without luck.” Mr. Devey said; “The result has gone the wrong way.  I admired the way your team played.”  I leave it at that, because these men are ardent students of football. 
BLESING THE BLUES
The type of Spoonerism that applies to Everton is “Tinkering teams their titles lose,” It was this tinkering, of which Everton have oft been guilty, which enabled Port Vale to turn the results sheet pink with embarrassment when the scorer wrote the result, Everton 2 Port Vale 3.  The reasons for defeat must be occupying the greatest attention of everyone.  Why should a hitherto unbeaten side fall, on their own ground –and top a side which last season played almost identically the same team in Third Division football?  It was an ironic blow, and knowing the value of iron to the system, it is possible that Everton will benefit by the shock to their system.  I mean a defeat of this kind will prevent their taking things too easily, too confidently, and too much in the way which suggests that promotion is a more matter of time.  A two goals lead in the second half was not sufficiently big to enable Everton to hold off the opposition.  In these days of football fury and recovery two goals represents a poor hurdle to a team which gets the air of victory into its head, and so Port Vale with three good shots put Everton’s chart back a point, and caused the biggest surprise of the day.  They won because they took chances.  Everton lost because instead of leading comfortably and convincingly they had shown such poor finishing form that a result which should have been safe long before the game ended was reversed in favour of the opposition. 
CALLING
It is an Everton spectator’s most galling experience to watch points thrown away in this-fashion.  The fact that Port Vale can succeed where other better teams have failed is only further evidence that the small-club bogey is still Everton’s chief bugbeer.  The game looked so good to Everton (and to us!) that they forgot the idea that football is secondary to goals, and played on giving us exhibitions of finessing and finery, when everyone could feel a dangerous atmosphere and an idea that this determined and over-played Port Vale side were mapped out as ideal shock-tacticians.  Well, they were.  Once they had the geeing-up influence of a goal they stopped only when two more had been added, and Everton’s discomfort completed.  All the rallies Everton put up were then unavailing.  So much for mascot, and so much for my first onlook at Everton this season! 
WHERE WAS THE SPUR?
On the score of team changing there are those who fail to see why one change in a winning side should mean three displacements and alternations.  But this is no excuse for the team, which must now its own forward failings.  The finishing was not abominably weak; it merely lacked an effort when one would have perhaps meant the difference between a goal and no goal.  Even offside tactics caused a hold-up, whereas the good forward likes the idea of the trap in that he has only to take the ball through and the offside game is likely to be unpopular for the remainder of the play.  Otherwise Everton played well enough, as proved by the case with which Coggins and company went through the match.  As against their ease, place the busy time Davies had- no wonder he received an ovation.  There should never have been doubt about an Everton win.  May the lesson be taken to heart, and may it prove a blessing in disguise. 

FORMER EVERTON CENTRE FORWARD.
Liverpool Echo Tuesday 23 September 1930
 Bobbie Parker sent greetings to me this week-end. The former Everton centre, nowadays trainer-manager of the amateurs, Bohemians, drew 2-2 with Dundalk in a fine game well-handled by a Liverpool referee, Mr. George Stephenson, who is growing in favour, and has been among the very hottest of Ores through his stern rebuke of players with famous names. George thinks nought of names; facts are his only concern.

CORRESPONDENTS CRACK THE WHIP ON EVERTON PLAYERS
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 23 September 1930
LEWIS –SOME HISTORY
Bee’s Notes
All Wrexham is agog with the rise of the Welsh side in the football world. The constant effort, the earnest endeavour of player and official, together with Manager Baynes, has led the side to a position of rare honour.  To me the side is interesting, especially as I was asked to interest myself in the club some weeks ago with their supporters’ club. Little did they know that Mr. Baynes, like many another manager, took counsel with the members of this Hive regarding the quality of Lewis, the son of a Wolverhampton man who trekked to Ellesmere Port with many other Midlanders. His son eventually left the Ellesmere club and became an Everton winger. He was a worrying outside left—hard at it, perhaps running himself out too early in his football career. Then he was tried as a wing half-back—he has bodily strength and great desire to rise in his profession.  When he was listed Mr. Baynes asked me for his birthmarks and has probabilities, and he was signed next day.  On Saturday, as the " Football Echo "  and " Daily Post " stated, Lewis scored  four goals from the outside-left position  —not five as has been stated. Needless to say, such form is sure to bring the scouts and managers to the Wrexham side, but the Welsh people are not keen to make deals; they are keen to keep their position to a point that shall bring them to the Everton level—they are yearning for a match with Everton before they leave the Second Division.  Talking of this Goodison affair reminds  me that at Hoylake they are running  some boxing shows of more than average merit, and they "bill " them in an unusual manner, as witness this saucy  little bit:—  " A smashing ten-round contest. Dick Grooms (Everton) v. Tommy Smith (Liverpool); two young boxers rapidly gaining recognition in their class. These two boys fought a draw at Kew Gardens, and the Press described the contest as the finest seen this season. This contest will be keener than any Everton v.  Liverpool local Derby. So be sure to see it. It will keep you talking until Everton come back.' Hoylake boxers meet at the Central Hall on Friday. 
FORMER EVERTON CENTRE-FORWARD
Bobbie Parker sent greetings to me this week-end.  The former Everton centre, nowadays trainer-manager of the amateurs, Bohemians, drew 2-2 with Dundalk in a fine game well-handled by a Liverpool referee, Mr. George Stephenson, who is growing in favour, and has been among the very hottest of fires through his stern rebuke of players with famous names.  George thinks nought of names; facts are his only concern. 
In the second round Hospital Cup, Orwell Wednesday play Post office.  As they are old rivals in the Cup it should be a good game, on Everton A team’s ground. 

EVERTON CHANGES
September 24 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
It was only to be expected after Everton's defeat at home by Port Vale that changes should be made in the side to meet Bradford City at Bradford, next Saturday. The directors at their meeting last night made two changes in the forward line, Martin and White who were at inside right and centre forward respectively last Saturday give way to Dunn and McCambridge. The latter scored five goals in a central league match at Blackpool on Monday week, and his league debut will be watched with interest. Dean is still on the injured list. The rest of the side is unchanged. It is of interest to note that, with the inclusion of Dunn and McCambridge there are seven internationals in the Everton side namely Williams and Griffiths (Wales), Cresswell, Johnson and Rigby (England) Dunn (Scotland) and McCambridge Ireland),
Meanwhile Britton the clever left back secured from Bristol Rovers who received a broken collar bone in the trail match, makes his first appearance on Saturday, for the Reserves, who meet Sheffield United reserves in the central league match at Goodison Park, kick off 3.15

EVERTON MAKE TWO FORWARD CHANGES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 24 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
It was necessary in the estimation of those who saw the game against Cardiff City and Port Vale that there should be changes in the Everton side.  Apparently the directors think so, too, because they have brought in Dunn and McCambridge to the inside forward berths, Dean still being absent.  It is early to be pessimistic, but it may be that we took too roseate a view of the victories that came early in the season, and believed the team would be good enough to return to the senior division.  There has been a lack of snap and shot in the inner-attacking berths, and the need for sharpness and shooting-joy has been proved an urgent necessity.  McCambridge makes his bow in English League football after a longish spell with the reserve side.  He is not without experience, though not, of course, having the years of learning that James Dunn can boast.  It does not follow that the selectors have solved their difficult problem, but we must take the team-sheet as it stands and see if the introductions at Bradford can bring about the needed improvement in the most import line of this eleven. 
From Hastings I get this one;- I have been a very keen supporter of the Blues or the last eight years, but owing to moving South I have not been able to see Everton play very often during the past eighteen months.  This last week-end, however, I was fortunate enough to be in Liverpool and decided to go to Goodison Park again and see the good old team.  What a surprise I received when they met more or less the babes of the Second Division.  Port Vale’s forwards showed the Everton five how to play.  They were a smarter set and deserved their win, as they took their chances, and Everton did not.  Everton’s forwards were very ragged.  Everton should give a few of the younger players in the reserves a trial; they would not appoint.  As things are at present they will be getting their chance when they are old men.  Here is my team; Coggins; Cresswell, Williams; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, Dean, McCambridge, and Stein.  Britton, the clever young half-back secured from Bristol Rovers, who received a broken collar-bone in the trail match, makes his first appearance on Saturday, when Everton Reserve meet Sheffield United Reserve in the Central league match at Goodison Park, kick-off 3.15.  White and Martin will also be in the side, the team being; Sagar; Lowe, O’Donnell; Britton, Gee, Bryan; Wilkinson, Martin, White, Webster, Stein. 
CALL UP THE RESERVES
“Bob Spec” writes;-
In spite of your hints to the directors of Everton F.C re the inside positions and the weakness shown in every match, they have refused to make any change, and the result is shown in the “Echo”  They have asked for it!  What has the reserve centre done that he did not get the vacant berth?  Are they afraid that he would score a goal or two?  Also that young local, Webster.  I take it he is too cheap and has not a class name- that is the only thing that counts with Everton.  Had you seen the chances missed on Saturday you would have had a fit and the remarks of the spectators would have turned you blue (red, I mean).  Will you have another howl at them? 
“Fed-up Blue” writes; - You are a wise guy, giving the Goodison Park farce a miss and going to Birmingham.  Why, oh! Why, does Dean get injured.  I hope he had the pleasure of seeing his colleagues playing pretty pretty football in midfield, but when they get near goal, why they couldn’t kick a hole in a wet “Echo.”  Will the Everton directors never learn a lesson.  Against Cardiff last Wednesday and now against Port Vale the same old messing about went on, while the other side score goals.  Get a few live boys who can score goals.  “A Loyal Everton Supporter” writes; it is high time directors learned what a reserve team is for.  When a first team man is injured it is the natural and proper procedure to bring in the reserve man for that particular position, especially if he is playing as well as McCambridge.  A player is injured, and then all the inside positions are altered.  “Dissatisfied” says; - Having witnessed Everton’s home games, I am unable to understand how they have secured the 11 points which have put them at the top of the League chart.  Luck has been the dominating factor in their early successes, but now a rapid decline is setting in which requires attention.  It is totally unfair to the supporters of the club to expect them to pay to see such football as that served up.  The most effective method of obtaining better-class football- although I hate to say it –would be a boycott.  “Three Blues” say; - To disorganize a whole forward line for the sake of including one man is to cry for defeat while there is a centre forward in the reserve side scoring goals every week. 

THE BIRTH OF A FOOTBALL NOTION
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 25 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
The letters of complaint regarding Everton continue.  I do not see much value in them, and have curbed most of them because the team has been chosen, and many of the letters merely state something that has been amended, by the directors so far as amendments can be carried!  All through this gamut of sport-gauging and player-baiting I feel a sort of need for something in the city that has never before been attempted.  We pride ourselves on our Derby games between Liverpool and Everton- we say these are an object lesson to all other cities who have severe rivalry, and sometimes server sequels on and off the field.  We pride ourselves on our football life in these parts.  I remember the days, twenty odd years ago, when a meeting of Blue and Red led to the fiercest of discussions, and the people did not seem to think it a match if they had not slandered a player or barged into a spectator at their elbow.  I call for a ring of sportsmanship, and today we have meetings that provide argument and discussion ad lib., but not nauseating.  I think the time is ripe for the city to take on a new guise; not a supporters’ club, but rather a sort of “Bee’s Sport Club,” Other teams go around the country once per annum and show their medals, whereas we, a city of football renown, have no such methods I have always claimed that it is only by the broadening process of travel to other football grounds that a men can realize what partisanship means and to what base ends a spectator will look at what he wants to see rather than what is actually occurring.  Travel to other grounds show us what intemperate language a spectator can use; what jaundiced views he can form.  Probably 88 per cent of the spectators at Goodison Park and Liverpool have never seen any other first division ground but their own. 
BRADFORD CITY’S CHANGE FOR EVERTON
Bradford City are making one change in their team to entertain Everton from that which drew at Cardiff, Summers taking the place of Peachey at centre-half.  The chosen are; Gill; Bicknell, Watson; Barkas, Summers, Bauld; Woolhouse, Moore, Hall, Cairns, Scriven. 

EVERTON’S CHANCE TO REFRESH THEIR SUPPORTERS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 26 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
Everton will not have all the Scottish thunder in their game, which brings together a rare collection of Scottish wares.  No, Tommy Cairns will be at Bradford City’s ground tomorrow, when we gather there to see “What about it.”  Everton have not been there for a long spell.  Time was when Everton went there for Cup-tie purposes-not to this ground, but the neighbours –and they lost.  In League matters against the City team one has to go back long stretches, for the Yorkshire side has had a varied career.  Just before the war they were known as the heartiest finishers in the game.  Their rise out of the bottom-dog position was more remarkable than the case of Grimsby or Sheffield Wednesday of four years gone by.  They had a Cup final experience and a vogue that never seemed possible to lose.  Yet by degrees the club fell from favour, and lost good men; collected little as they went a-mossing; and today they stand rather a memory of the past than a foretaste of a bright future.  Their management has changed its course in its time, and today it has new leaders, who are just about getting to know the necessities of this particular club.  What chance have Everton?  They have made vital changes in the forward line.  McCambridge is to say “How d’ye do” to League football after collecting a bag of goals for the reserve side.  Dunn’s presence suggests that the directors have not increased the speed of the line at the expense of experience and canny ball control.  Dunn is playing better today than he has played for a year or more; talk of his going to Scotland has fallen right out of the text books.  Everton’s main need seemed to me to be the general need of football; a shooter who will take the easy chance without making a labour of it!  The delayed shot is the smothered shot.  Everton have taken too long to get under weigh, and have taken too long the belief that they are sure to walk back to the old division.  A goal margin is not sufficient –save at the 90th minute.  Remember that, Everton.  Get in, get busy, get the goals offered.  Take a pleasure in making a first-time shot.  Everton; Coggins; Williams (Capt), Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, McCambridge, Johnson, Rigby.  Bradford; Gill; Bicknell, Watson; Barkas, Summers, Bauld; Woolhouse, Moore, Hall, Cairns, Scriven. 
EVERTON “A” DOUBTS
Everton “A” at Stoppage-lane, tomorrow, 3-30 versus Blundellsands, from Britt; Parker, Taylor; Sefton, Chedgzoy, D. Lloyd, Keely, J. Lloyd, Liggins, Cunliffe, Walton, Simpson, Jenkins, and Hanson.  Everton “A” require away match for Saturday, October 4. 

WILL EVERTON CHANGES PAY?
September 27 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Everton have already had a reminder that it is not plain sailing in the Second Division; indeed the directors and other connected with the club realise full well what a great task it is to get back to the upper house. They do not hold lightly the task at Bradford this afternoon, for the City side is a trustful one and Everton must improve if they are to prevail. It is hoped that the inclusion of McCambridge and Dunn will strengthen the forward line, which lacked finish last week, and in the absence of Dean, McCambridge is expected to prove a good leader. The Irish man has already shown his ability to get goals and if he is supported today he ought to lead the line well. Dunn, at his best is a clever schemer, it is hoped that the changes will prove the means of Everton striking the winning vein again. It will be a case of old rivals meeting, for Bradford City and Everton have in happier days classics first Division warfare. The teams are; - Everton; - Coggin; Williams Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, McCambridge, Johnson, Rigby. Bradford City; - Gill; Bicknell, Watson, Barkas, Summers; Bauld, Woodhouse, Moore, Hall, Cairns, Scriven.

BRADFORD CITY V EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 27 September 1930
MEMORIES OF BYGONE DAYS AT VALLEY PARADE GROUND- BY BEE
Everton; Coggins; Williams, Cresswell; McPherson, Griffiths, Thomson; Critchley, Dunn, McCambridge, Johnson, Rigby.  Bradford City;- Gill; Bicknell, Watson; Barkas, Summers, Bauld, Woodhouse, Moore, Hall, Cairns, Scriven.  Referee; Mr. Nunnerley, of Ellesmere. 
Everton have not made many visits to Bradford City's ground in the valley of Manningham. One remembers some tousy affairs here, and a memorable case when one of our captains was ordered off the field.  Times have changed, and Bradford City have gone through the football mill. To-day they have no Peter O'Rourke as manager, Jack Peart having taken his place. The team is naturally  in the transient stage, but, from an Everton point of view, the match had  to be a teat as to whether the changes  made in the attack would produce for  the side a scoring or shooting side that  had been absent for a week or so.  In short, the Everton attack were on trial, and they could complain none about the state of the ground and the day, both of which were fine and dry.  McCambridge, the Irishman, was making his debut in English League football, and Jaime Dunn reappeared after a long absence and much buffeting.  The visit was the usual draw to the “way” and Bradford reckoned they had one of their best gates, although it did not strike me as bigger than 15,000, which is quite good “for Bradford. 
CITY'S EARLY ESCAPE. 
Cairns, captain of the home side, looked like the rest of the side, a tilde on the heavy-built side. The gale of the morning had gone when the captains tossed, and Everton took advantage of the now slight wind.  Dunn's that effort was an attempted pass that turned the other way. McCambridge worried through, and when Critchley and Dunn placed him he slipped up, otherwise he could never have shot outside. This was a lucky escape for Bradford, who were thus early unnerved, yet Scriven, from Cairns, curled the ball to the goalmouth, where Coggins caught it.   Bradford, encouraged, came back with a good centre and an attack that might have meant anything but for Cairns slipping down in front of the goal. The crowd appreciated Everton's passing moves and Griffiths' long shots. Yet we from the Liver home wanted to see the attack in deadly shooting mood.  The wind was apparently helping the visitors more than we imagined could be the case. One of the most exciting things of the day came when Coggins ran out to a ball that had been left by the defence, who believed there must be an offside decision.  Coggins pitched at the ball and the legs of the forward Scriven and saved daringly. He followed up with another great catch; and then Moore hit a magnificent drive to the crossbar—an escape that balanced of McCambridge's. Critchley opened the goal-way, but Johnson and McCambridge could not squeeze the ball through in spite of their proximity in the goalmouth.  Bradford were go-ahead and practical, and when Cresswell fell Williams headed behind for a corner.  William cleared this with a huge kick, and this clearance started a lot of heading and crosspatch work on the right wing.
A GRIFFITHS GOAL 
Critchley was hurt unfairly, and the free kick brought a goal. The ball was taken by McPherson, and after being  headed about in front of goal Griffiths  got it some fifteen yards out and without delay showed how goals can be got—a grand low drive, unstoppable—a  real beauty. Time ten minutes.  Critchley got another bang from the same back as before, and he had to retire. Everton should have been two goals up because McCambridge did a fine dribble and the ball went out to Rigby, whose shot merely crossed the goalmouth rather tamely, for winger is a very hard shooter.  Ben Williams was playing harder than ever, and Everton had gained much-needed confidence through opening the score-sheet. It has generally been the other side that has started the scoring, and then Everton have won through.  It was good to see Critchley come back, although he limped. A third time Critchley was felled by Bauld, and this time the referee, Mr. Nunnerley, gave him a severe lecture. It meant that three runs by Critchley had cost him three blows.  Gill saved the free kick taken by McPherson at the top of the goalbar.   Summers handled in the box, but it was plainly an accident. Bradford moved along just now with precision, and Hall made a great shot that Coggins tipped over the bar.  Cresswell cleared the corner with as ease and almost indifference that showed his belief in himself. Hall came back with another shot—shot -time and slightly hooked. He is quite a deadly and tall centre-forward.  Bauld, the half-back, joined in the   shooting and nearly knocked Cresswell out when the latter headed away  Bradford had some chances, notable  when they had a free kick (inches outside the box) for hands, and when the defence became open and a header went near. 
CRITCHLEY A PASSENGER
More important was a home miss when Coggins misjudged the ball and Scriven put over the bar without excuse.  Critchley was practically use less through his injury, and there was a call to one man to “go up among the forwards.” The forwards seemed to object.  The Everton forwards rarely got going, and the left wing had been strangely quiet.  Scriven and Hall were impressive forwards, whereas Everton’s centre had hardly been seen nor had a chance to show himself. 
EVERTON’S AWAY FORM
STILL UNBEATEN ON TREK
CRITCHLEY DECIDES
Everton are still unbeaten away from home.  I have yet to see them lose this season.  They played as well as ever in defence at Bradford City’s ground, but the attack was again without a convincing way, although they got three goals.  Bradford had fewer chances of goal-getting. Despite Coggins and Cresswell putting up a bonny fight. 
A change came when Rigby scored.  It was a scrambled finish to a pretty movement after McCambridge had refused to be a slave to the centre berth. Critchley called for a pass, McCambridge went to the right, screwed the ball inwards and Johnson hit the ball to the upright—an escape for a mere second, as this ball.  The game had hardly restarted before Coggins made his best save—from one of his own men—a header by Williams.  Critchley went up to inside right, and with his left foot skimmed the crossbar.  Rigby offered an inward pass, and McCambridge did not shoot conclusively, nor yet did Gill save it scare it convincingly.  McCambridge went in again, and there was no stemming his enterprise and endeavour. Johnson's dribbles availed him nothing. Coggins had to make a punch or take a heavy charge.  Bradford was very keen on this form of attack, and Cresswell crowded out three of their efforts, while another attempt sent the bell across the goal.  Griffiths fell back and made a great tackle after Cresswell had slipped down.  Bradford got in each other's way when they were on top of the visitors. They ought to have scored.  Everton were hard pressed, and this half Dunn made some lovely centres to either wing. Cresswell had more kicks at, the ball than any other player on the field. Coggins and his co-partners in the overworked store were on the collar for full ten minutes.  Coggins in fact had one of his best days with punch, clearance, and catch.  Bradford were woeful near goal. Dunn relieved the tension by making Gill catch a high ball. Johnson had the bad luck to be pulled out of a goal through off-side.  Moore had the home side’s best scoring try. Coggins was saving Everton this half. It was not a good match, Bradford being too cumbersome near goal. Griffiths had a big drive to try to effect his second goal of the day, and McPherson made a delicious solo run and short pass. 
CRITCHLEY GOALS 
Matters came to a head when Williams punted hard and high. A half-back misjudged the flight, and Dunn pushed forward a lovely pass.  Critchley raced along and through and finally drove in a perfectly true ball.  Goal No. 3, time 81 minutes, and the home side now well beaten.  Final; Bradford City 0, Everton 3. 

EVERTOR RES V. SHEFF. UTD. 
Liverpool Echo- Saturday September 27 1930
WHITE AND STEIN SCORE GOOD GOALS 
Everton fully deserved their interval lead, for they had shown a constructiveness and thrust forward that the United had found decidedly difficult to hold.  White, Webster, and Martin, were a resourceful inside trio, ever ready to round off the speedy wing runs of Wilkinson and Stein.  The Yorkshire side, in contrast, lacked cohesion in attack, and, apart from Johnson, who frequently bothered the home defence, and made one great shot that made Sagar dive full length, the visitors were not too convincing, although Matthews, Birks, and Bennett defended sturdily.  White scored Everton's first goal from a Wilkinson centre, and Stein added number two following a brilliant solo run. Britton was playing well in a good Everton middle line.  Half-time.—Everton Res. 2. Sheffield  United Res. 0.  After the interval Johnson missed, and Oswald went near.  White scored third and fourth goals for Everton Res.  Final; Everton Res 4, Sheffield United Res 0

WHY NOT PROMOTE MORE CLUBS?
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 27 September 1930
BY JAMES DUNN, THE INTERNATIONAL FORWARD OF HIBERNIANS AND EVERTON
The suggestion has been put forward that the system of promotion and relegation should be extended. The idea is to relegate four bottom clubs in the First Division and to promote four in the Second. The same system would apply to the lesser leagues.  In this way promotion for an ambitious club would be rapid—provided the players were good enough—but, at the  same time, there would be a swifter  descent at the end of the season for  teams that had faltered. It was a coincidence that at the beginning of this season. Everton, previously stalwarts of the First Division, met Plymouth Argyle, known for years as the "unluckiest team in the Third Division,” because they were always near the top but just beaten in the climb.  Naturally, the visit of Everton to Plymouth aroused tremendous enthusiasm.  Given an extended system of promotion and relegation we should see more of such encounters.  A great Levelling process has been going on in football for years now.  That is one of the effects of promotion and relegation. In my brief experience of football in the Second Division I have quickly noticed this. There may be teams that are crude in their methods, but I have not met them yet. Everton will soon be back in their old sphere- we are all certain of that—but it will be because they will play football equal to the best.  Second Division football can, in a way, be fully as exciting as football in the big league.  It is a great honour for a team in the First Division to win the Championship, but is it as exciting for the players as winning promotion? There is real excitement about those last matches that decide whether or not you are going up.  There is the Cup-tie atmosphere about, except that the fact that you are playing for promotion proves that you have done consistently well throughout the season, and so is almost a greater tribute to the team than success in the knock-out tournament.  Of course, for sheer excitement, Cup-ties are in a class alone - I shall not easily forget the clay when Celtic beat the Hibernian, in the final of the Scottish Cup, and I have figured in some thrilling Cup-ties in England.  For good football, international matches take some beating, and I look forward to figuring again in a Scotland v. England tussle.  A personal view about football to-day  —though I know that many will not  agree with me—is that it would be a  more scientific game if it were played at  played at slower tempo. Half backs have a very difficult task to keep in touch with their forwards when the game is played at break-neck speed.  The result is that openings are missed and passes are apt to go astray. Worse still, inside forwards get into the way of playing too far back, with the result that they are sometimes not in shooting position when a scoring opportunity is presented.  I think that the " W" formation is  the best formation for the front line, but  it should not be stretched too far—that  is to say, the inside forwards should not  be too far behind the other three, and  the half-backs should be in close touch  with the forward line.  Nowadays, we do not see so many individual runs in football, nor so many neat triangle combinations. First-time kicking is the vogue of the moment.  An inside forward who achieved a feat of dribbling that many people will remember for a long time is Paddy Gallagher, late of Celtic. He received a centre and went right through a crowd of players with it, drew the goalkeeper out from between the uprights, and shot round him. Not a single player, except Paddy, touched the ball.  This is the sort of thing I should like to see more of in football.  Inside forwards in particular ought to know all there is to be known about dribbling. Young players are sometimes taught at school to consider dribbling selfish. They are told that football is a team game, and that they must pass. That is quite true, and inside forwards must give and take passes neatly and fluently, but dribbling is not selfish. On the contrary, it is just the opposite. If you dribble and are robbed of the ball, you get all the blame. It you pass hastily, or at the wrong time, the man for whom you intend your pass probably fails to take it, and he is blamed.  The right way is to dribble until you have made your opening, and then give the sort of pass that you would like to  receive—not too fast, but placed nicely ahead so that the ball can he gathered  up on the run.  When I learned the game I was shown how to dribble the ball in and out between posts until I could keep it at my tees while swerving and turning.  This is the way to dribble, the man who can seem to be swerving one way, and actually take the ball the other, will deceive most defenders. You can hardly give really good passes unless you can get adversaries who tackle you moving in the wrong direction, and that is why I recommend every player to master the knack of close dribbling, even though he does not himself indulge in long individual dribbles in play. 
KEENER COMPETITION 
But to come back to the suggested new system of promotion and relegation.  There would be keener competition between Second Division teams, because chances of promotion would be so much greater. There would be keener competition between First Division teams because chances of relegation would be greater. I don't know how this would appeal in the First Division, but it would certainly appeal in the Second.  You would continue the levelling-up process in football, too, get more Second Division players in international  teams, and improve Second Division gates .  Some people will tell me that It would be a “levelling down” instead of a “levelling up." but I think there is enough football talent to support two nearly equal leagues. The Cup-ties where all meet equally, prove this.

FOOTBALL RESULTS BOAR – NOT BOARD
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 27 September 1930
MR. CHARLES SUTCLIFFE SAYS THE RESULTS MAY BEWILDER BUT THEY ALSO ENTRANCE
TAKE STOCK, EVERTON; DON’T MAKE EXCUSES
I suppose that there is a great deal OF anxiety in Liverpool this over the doings of the Everton team, and a sense of security that the Liverpool team will look after itself.  That sense of anxiety is a great compliment to the Second Division teams, and the results of Everton's last two games, both played at Goodison Park, will intensify rather than appease the anxiety.   That Cardiff City, with depleted  ranks, should draw, and then Port Vale, the team promoted from the Third  Division at the end of last season, steal away with a full complement of points  must convince the Everton supporters  that even the lowliest teams and the clubs with the most limited resources are fighting forces to be reckoned with.  To talk about difference in style or method is merely to confess that presumed masters at the fame lack adaptability. I hear the apologists talk about kick and rush, first-time tackling, ruthless stopping, and so forth, but are we to be told that the clever exponents, baffled by a team that swings the ball about, gets it away from and to goal, that laughs at slow-moving methods, and  that stands up to the cleverest opponents,  are handicapped by their cleverness?    One thing can be counted on—Everton will get the necessary support.  I was at Bury last Saturday when they had West Bromwich Albion as visitors and the gate was £600.  How can a club expect to build up and maintain a promotion side on such rates?  Money is not all-powerful, but it is essential, and the first responsibility on the supporters of a club is to be prepared to pay for what they want, and the honest and indisputable excuse of a club is to be able to say. "We are providing as good a team or even a better team than you are prepared to support."  It may be brutal, but it is frankly true that it would be a calamity for a club that lacks support to have to undertake the responsibility of First Division football, for it would end in debt and disappointment.    Be that as it may, we admire the pluck and fighting spirit of clubs that face odds, and that, if only for a brief period, lay the giants low in the dust.  Some of the clubs of great promise and expectation have soon found holes in their sails.  It would be a wonder team that never lost a match, and a miserably incompetent team that never won one; yet we have Manchester United without a point, and Sunderland, Manchester City, and Grimsby Town hosting the S.0.S. signal. Sunderland and Manchester City can command gates of such magnitude as to indicate that they will soon be making trips with cheques also of considerable magnitude.  In fact, I saw the manager of Manchester City at Bury. I cannot conceive he was after a West Bromwich player, for I fancy my friend Billy Bassett will argue: "We can get the gates, and if only we can get back we have a team that will serve us for years to come." Hence, reading this and the preceding paragraph together you may arrive at the conclusion that if he was on a business Jaunt it was Bury rather than the Albion that attracted his attention. Still, while guessing is interesting, we so often hear the retort “Wrong again “that we will await events.   Support, however, does not always mean success, nor is criticism always justified. Chelsea has been one of this best supported clubs in the country, and has got together a collection of star forwards at a very considerable expense.  London is not a good football nursery, and the managers of London clubs must look elsewhere.  Football results may be bewildering, but they are also entrancing.  It is pleasing to see results, gratifying to players written down as duds, commendable to directors who are accused of not knowing their jobs and proving to the hostile cities that they have a lot to learn.  Early in the season criticism is never to be commended or relied on.  The wheel of fortune is ever turning.  We shall now settle down to normal times, and form will be more reliable. 

STUD MARKS
Liverpool Echo – Saturday September 27 1930
By Louis T. Kelly

“KID-GLOVE” PLAYERS
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 27 September 1930
ANDY DUCAT ON TAKING A KNOCK
An important game was lost a day or two ago because a full-back –a master of offside tactics- stopped in the middle of the game to appeal to the referee.  The referee could not agree with him, and the forward went on to score.  Later, the other back was knocked down and it seemed as though he had been fouled.  He clearly though so, for he waited for the whistle.  The whistle, however, did not come; the referee waved the game on, and the back was just too late to save a second goal.  “Kid glove footballers!” commented a spectator near me.  A very large number of people have this “kid glove” impression.  They have clearly never played in League football.  Unfortunately, the readiness of some players to appeal does give the impression that they are shouting before they are hurt, but it is equally a fact that a player can get badly damaged in the course of play without his injury being visible to all the world.  I once saw a player deliberately sacrifice a chance of a shot at goal because had he brought his foot down he might have hurt another player badly.  This was not “kid glove stuff.”  The player himself had recently been out of the game for a year, simply because he had been brought down by a clumsy tackle.  He saw no reason why he should make another player pay the same price.  Few players go through the season without a couple of bad knocks; injuries that can be treated without special attention are every minute occurrences.  True, fisticuffs are rare in Association football, and there is no systematic “marking” of adversaries with a view to putting key-men out of the game.  Anybody who wants that sort of football will not find it in the League game.  But there is a big difference between this and “kid glove” football.  The ordinary risks of soccer are sufficient to make the “kid glove” gibe ridiculous to anybody who has played soccer in the mud and on skating-rink surfaces. 

EVERTON RESERVES 4 SHEFFIELD UNITED RESERVES 0
September 29 th 1930. Liverpool Post and Mercury
Central League (Game 5)
At Goodison Park. The home combine perfectly, moving ahead by short accurate passing that at times completely nonplussed the United halves, and but for the sound defensive work of Birks, Bennett and Smith, the winners score must easily have been doubled. White got three of the goals, but the centre was much indebted to Martin and Webster who scheme and worked so industriously and cleverly, while Stein, who scored the other goal, and Wilkinson provides the speed and thrust on the wings. The back halves collaborated with the forwards with fine understudy. Sheffield were not a poor team, but their attack lacked the cohesion that characterized Everton's work. Johnson in the centre was always dangerous, but other them once really good effort, Sagar was not seriously troubled. It was Everton's best exhibition for some time and a worthy victory.
Everton "A" 5 Blunderlsands 2
Liverpool County Combination
At Stopgate-Lane. Aided by the wind, the visitors were aggressive Anderson scoring in the first minute. Hanson subsequently equalised. Roberts put the visitors ahead, but a couple of goals by Cunliffe gave Everton the interval lead. In the second half the home team were superior, the visitors being kept in their own half for the major portion. Further goals to Everton were obtained by Liggins, and Cuningham. Blundellsand only had ten men throughout.

EVERTON’S CLEAR MARGIN
Liverpool Echo - Monday 29 September 1930
By Bees
Everton have struck the vein again - away from home they are unbeaten, and so far I have not seen the club lose a point. To tackle Charlton at Goodison Park, on Saturday, means that they are up against a side with a style after Everton's own heart. So that the memory of the Cardiff and Port Vale visits should be forgotten and a new hope brought into the club. They won by a clear margin, they won against a rather clumsy side who left a deep impression upon the members of the visiting club—the marks are there as evidence if needs be. I hate to be a carping critic. In football, which has so many variable moves and so many debates, one must make allowances for what I call a "run of the green." It doesn't do to obsess yourself with the  home or the away club; just take the  matters as they come; ignore anyone's  opinion, otherwise you aril not being fair to your own considered view. That is a reason for my making these comments  every time immediately after the  game is played—actually they are being  made in a saloon kindly loaned to some Everton officials and ourselves by the Wrexham F.C. directors who are happy  to have made a draw at Halifax. I mention these matters of insistent-opinion because from the start of the season I have been giving Everton the credit due to them, but not giving them awards merely because the score sheet showed them as victors. I told you at Cardiff how they should have won with ease; the forwards kept this game in doubt; it was the same against Port Vale, I am told. Now the side has won 3-0, and I am out to tell you the fact. The forward line was lacking in certain defined qualities. The left wing didn't pair off; the inner man would try to dribble the ball through a rousing opponent’s body; McCambridge had little chance, but showed the customary vigour of his race in his endeavour—nothing was too far for him to attempt to " stretch it "; on the right wing Dunn, spite his idea of lying back and being a general feeder, was probably too far back to be totally effective, yet I would say he played  very hard football, and he and the skilled McPherson know how to get the best out of Critchley –it is by means of the pass that sends the ball beyond the half an back towards the corner flag so that Critchley can use his speed and discretion and centre ably.  This was a move done to perfection, and it was necessary because Critchley had been badly knocked about three times, and had been off the field as a consequence.  One could not wish to see anything brighter than the way Critchley completed the third goal of the day – a magnificent solo, following on a bright interlude by the captain, Ben Williams, and Dunn. 
BUT –
But prior to that Everton, enjoying a lead of two goals for nearly an hour, had been pestered.  They had been harried, parried and worried.  They had been brilliant in defence with Coggins positively marvelous in the amount of work he got through, with risk to life and limb, and nothing more troublesome than a bump and a lost cap Cresswell had another of his delightful innings; complacent; a header with a certitude; an intervener with a sharp eye to the next move; a great lobber of the ball, with length, strength and direction – a bonny display that even the Yorkshiremen had to admire.  Griffiths lay doggo for a time because the situation demanded it – the opposition centre forward struck me as truly great and lasting leader- Hall by name.  Hall-marked was his play.  Griffiths, however, played his part manfully, cutting through with the ball taken by means of his outstretched leg or his giraffe neck.  Griffiths did more- he got the opening goal, and McCambridge forced the second to Rigby’s name, although the jovial little left-winger’s task was an easy one.  It was then we saw the holes in the Everton attack; the defence stood up to its task rigidly, yet I say quite frankly and definitely that Bradford City should have scored goals, and had they started their account, I fear, there would have been a general collapse in the Everton ranks, which still tries to be hearty but finds a goal against a means by which they all lose their form in the tick of a clock.  Blame Bradford for not getting a goal and you are doing Everton no injustice.  Blame Everton’s attack, although they got three goals, because they merit this condemnation.
PRETTY, BUT INEFFECTIVE
Everton’s frontal line still hugs the belief that it is possible to weave a way through these rugged Second Division defences.  They imagine that their pattern of play will satisfy even if it does not produce combination-with-a-shot.  I have long been feared of the Everton attack because it seems to think a pretty pass suffices.  But the line, actually, is out of joint, and the way the half-backs all pass the ball up to the forwards there should be a better of guns in the front five.  It is not sufficient to be pretty; in effect it means good-looking football that becomes ineffective football when the goal range is reached.  Today the joy of football is the goal thereof.  That is the high calling of 1930.  Everton can enjoy this joy if their front line will decide that there is honour in having a shot, even if the ball pulls or slices out of the goal deck.  The ability is there; there is still a certain slowness of action in close dribbling in the inner position, and it is there that Everton have to take a microscope for the next six matches.  The habit of wheeling round to make a dribble counts for nought in this rugged Second Division football.  Everton’s superiority in combined play has been undoubted in all the games, I have seen this season; to “cry” over a 3-0 win away from home against a side that has beaten Port Vale 2-1 may strike some readers as mere habitual grumbling.  I am not grumbling, I felt awkward about this latest victory for an hour; Bradford had long stretches of powerful attack with cumbersome finishing; it was only when the damaged Critchley got up to make a bold solo stroke that one felt easy about the position.  The difficulty is forward.  McCambridge had little or no chance; Dunn worked very hard and passed to either wing with rare judgement.  The question keeps coming to my mind, after riddling the various lines of the team, where are the shooters coming from?  Who will be the shooters?  We cannot do without an answer to this query.  Gill, the home goalkeeper at Bradford, would agree with me that he had not a deal to do and that it needed a half-back to set an example that was not followed.  All the forwards should be shooters in their proper time and place.  Everton forwards do not shoot.  They get crowded out, or make one more pass or one more dribble.  This may eventually be their fatal illness! 

FIGURES OF SPEECH
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 30 September 1930
Bee’s Notes
“Yesrem” writes’- if you want any confirmation of your statements from time to time in regard to Everton’s forwards may I point out that six teams in the Second Division have scored more goals than Everton, and it might be well not to overlook the fact that three out of the six Everton victories were against clubs at present occupying the 18th, 19th and 21st positions.  Nuff said.
Mr. H.S. Day, a well-known Everton supporter, of Hillside near Southport, has lent a family touch to the scheme.  He says; “Please enroll my family, consisting of self, my wife, and two daughters. We are Blues, and as you are perhaps aware, never miss an Everton match, either away or at home.  We usually go by road, but will be pleased to join up with the rest by rail to Nottingham, and any other Everton trips you care to organize.  Wishing you and your scheme success, and kindest regards.”
This is the all-round family spirit; the more the ladies join the more certain am I that this will be an educating and enjoyable outing. 

 

September 1930