Everton Independent Research Data
EVERTON’S BASEBALL CUP
August 7, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
The county baseball at Goodison Park provided a thrilling encounter, with Everton just scraping home by a single run in the last innings. The cup was presented to Everton by the Liverpool F.C chairman Mr. W.H. McDonnell.
FOOTBALL CHAIRTY EFFORTS
August 15, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
“Liverton” Derby at Goodison
Though the football season proper does not start until Saturday week, the opportunity is being taken by several clubs to stage charity games this Saturday. The meeting of Everton and Liverpool, at Goodison Park, in aid of the Lord Mayor’s Fund, is sure to draw Soccer enthusiasts in goodly numbers. Last year’s game for the same cause was a real thriller, and the Liverton Derby never fails to make appeal. Though unavoidable, it is rather a pity the return between the R.A.F and the Western Command, arising out of the first encounter at Anfield, last May should be on the same at Blackpool, because it means the several stars who otherwise might have been at Goodison will be missing. With League fixtures filling every Saturday, however, and mid-week games taboo, the Service folk to seize the only free day that was going, and there should be a big holiday crowd for the Blackpool fixture, when the teams will contain a big sprinkling of internationals. The Western Command will include McInnes, Balmer and Kinghour (Liverpool), Liverpool’s gust star, Welsh and Lawton (Everton) with Ronnie Stuart, Blackpool’s reserve centre half, in the pivotal position. The R.A.F attack will be led by Joe Payne of Chelsea and will include Stan Matthews. I understand there is still a doubt about Balmer’s fitness.
Neither Liverpool nor Everton are yet able to announce their side for the Goodison game, but Everton’s eleven will include a newcomer in Sid Rawlings, of Millwall, so of Archie Rawlings, who has assisted Southport of recent seasons. Apart from him, Everton are not likely to set themselves out very much for guest stars, believing that it will be them better, with the end of the war more or less in sight, to concentrate on giving every opportunity to their own younger players of promise. I had a call yesterday from Joe Mercer, who is home on a week’s leave and will play on Saturday, but Tommy Jones isn’t likely to be fit to turn out for a few weeks. Lowe, Everton’s promising 18 years-old winger, who broke his leg last November has resumed training. Now that Preston North End are taking up the reins gain McIntosh will play for them his Services duties permit, but will be available for Everton occasionally. Tommy Lawton’s appearances will depend on representative calls and his job as P.T instructor to the Army cadets; when these permit he will turn out for Everton.
TEAMS FOR FIRST “DERBY” GAME
August 17, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
The Everton and Liverpool side to meet at Goodison Park on Saturday for the Lord Mayor’s War Fund are bound to put up a sound show. Everton have a good side including a number of stars, but Lawton is called on for the services teams match at Blackpool and of course T.G. Jones is on the injured list. Mr. George Kay has still a couple of vacancies to fill in the Liverpool team, Kaye, now recovered from his cartilage operation, resumes at right-half with Hughes and Pilling completing the line. The teams are –Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.E.), Greenhalgh; Mercer, M. McDonnell, Watson; Grant, Bentham, McIntosh, Stevenson, G. Makin (seventeen-year-old player of promise). Liverpool; Hobson; A.N. Other, Gulliver; Kaye, Hughes, Pilling; Eastman, Taylor, Done, A.N. Other, Campbell.
EVERTON F.C. CAPTAIN
August 17, 1944. The Evening Express
“Derby” Match Teams
Pilot’s Log
Tommy Lawton will captain Everton F.C. whenever he is available this season. In his absence Norman Greenhalgh, the former New Brighton player, will lead the side. Lawton will not be able to take in the “Derby” game with Liverpool, in aid of the Lord Mayor’s War Fund, at Goodison Park on Saturday, owing to the calls of the Western Command game at Blackpool, which also ties up McInnes, Balmer, and Kinghorn, all Liverpool players. Consequently, Greenhalgh will captain the Blues, who will field a team of last season’s strength including one “guest” player –McIntosh, of Preston –and two amateurs –M. McDonnell and G. Makin. McDonnell will be a centre half in place of Tommy Jones, the Welsh international, and Makin will be at outside left partnering Stevenson. Incidentally, Makin played in the corresponding game last season. While Everton have fixed up their eleven two positions in the Liverpool team remain to be filled. One is at right back and the other at inside left. Kaye will resume at right half following his cartilage operation. Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.E.), Greenhalgh; Mercer, M. McDonnell, Watson; Grant, Bentham, McIntosh, Stevenson, G. Makin (seventeen-year-old player of promise). Liverpool; Hobson; A.N. Other, Gulliver; Kaye, Hughes, Pilling; Eastman, Taylor, Done, A.N. Other, Campbell.
LIVERTON DERBY
August 17, 1944, The Liverpool Echo
Kaye Returns to Anfield Side
Ranger’s Notes
Though the Services representative game at Blackpool, on Saturday has robbed the Everton-Liverpool match, at Goodison, of some of its stars, the Liverton sides are still attractive, and the game will be a grand preliminary to the season. On the home side there is additional interest because of one of the nowadays rare appearances of Joe Mercer, regarded by many good judges as the finest left half England has had this generation. McDonnell is at centre half in the absence of the injured Tommy Jones and McIntosh is at centre forward, Lawton being at Blackpool. Grant one of Everton’s best war-time discoveries goes to outside right, where he had previously had several outings, and Makin a 17-year-old lad of promise is outside left. When he is available Lawton will captain the Everton side this season, Greenhalgh being deputy captain. Feature of Liverpool’s team is that it marks the first game since last January of right half George Kaye, who has undergone a cartilage operation and thus restores the intermediate line which was so long the backbone of the side. With Westby wanted by his own club and Welsh playing for the Army, there are two places still to be filled in the team. Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.E.), Greenhalgh; Mercer, M. McDonnell, Watson; Grant, Bentham, McIntosh, Stevenson, G. Makin (seventeen-year-old player of promise). Liverpool; Hobson; A.N. Other, Gulliver; Kaye, Hughes, Pilling; Eastman, Taylor, Done, A.N. Other, Campbell.
DO YOU KNOW HIM?
August 17, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Mr. Theo Kelly Everton’s secretary, asks if any reader can help him? He’s had a letter from the patients of the a airman enclosing a photograph of two R.A.F lads, with the request that he should pass a message on to one of them, named Joe, who in the early days of the war was on Everton’s books as an amateur. So many young players have passed through his hands since then that Mr. Kelly cannot recall this lad from his picture. The senders of the messages don’t know his surname but do know that he joined the R.A.F about two years ago, went to the Middle East last November as a wireless operator, and air gunner and was laid up with pleurisy in Cairo. If these details enable anyone to identity him, will they please write Mr. Kelly?
WAR FUND GOODISON “DERBY”
August 18, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Football again in all its glory tomorrow. The “preliminary canter” for the 1944-45 season will feature a Merseyside “Derby” between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park for the Lord Mayor of Liverpool’s War Fund, and I anticipate that this will mean another £1,000 for the Fund, for even should the “gate” fall below that mark I think the clubs will, as in the past, make up the round figure. While the Blues and Reds are at grips, other of our Merseyside clubs will be holding their final trial games in readiness for the Football League start a week hence. Tranmere Rovers as a matter of fact, are holding two trial games, while there be practice games at Southport, Wrexham, Chester and Crewe. It is a pity that the Blackpool charity game should draw so many stars from the Goodison Park encounter and we shall miss Tommy Lawton, Jack Balmer and Don Welsh, but fortunately there are other high-powered personalities to ensure this being as exciting as all the many local “Derby” matches of the war. Each and every war-time “Derby” has been a thriller, and last season’s War Fund match, despite the absence of points lure, was one of the most enthralling, for did not Liverpool peg back a two-goal lead to pile on five in the closing minutes to win? Liverpool had the better of last season’s “arguments,” and paper teams suggest that they will again dominate locally, but that is no certainty by any means, and the Everton of concentrating on their own players rather than including too many “guest” players should bear fruit in the future.
Per-War Stars
We shall see plenty of per-war stars on parade tomorrow, for in the Everton side there will be Joe Mercer, Alex Stevenson, Jack Jones (internationals these), Greenhalgh, Bentham, Watson and Burnett. With the Reds will be Harry Eastham, Phil Taylor, and Cyril Done, besides the “prodigal” Alf Hobson. Watime discoveries in George Kaye, Laurie Hughes, and Jack Campbell appear for Liverpool and Everton give to Matt McDonnell and George Makin, the 17-year-old winger, the chance to show whether a year has made the advancement expected. Grant will be at outside right, where Syd Rawlings will later be appearing as a “guest” so that Everton’s only “guest” will be Jim McIntosh, of Preston North End, who leads the attack for Lawton. McIntosh will be playing for Everton whenever he cannot get away to help his own club. Liverpool feature Geoff Gulliver, of Reading as their only “gust” but right back and inside left are positions which need to be filled, and maybe Manager Mr. George Kay has an “ace” up his sleeve. This may prove to be Ronnie Dix, of Spurs, who is being sought by other clubs. The match starts at 3 o’clock, and despite the fact that Summer sports other connect-attractions there should be at least 15,000 spectators present to help this excellent cause. Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.E.), Greenhalgh; Mercer, M. McDonnell, Watson; Grant, Bentham, McIntosh, Stevenson, G. Makin (seventeen-year-old player of promise). Liverpool; Hobson; A.N. Other, Gulliver; Kaye, Hughes, Pilling; Eastman, Taylor, Done, A.N. Other, Campbell.
WAR FUND GAME AT GOODISON
August 18, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Football enthusiasts of Merseyside, now girding up their lenis for the real start next week, have some pre season charity games for their delectation tomorrow. Although Everton-Liverpool game at Goodison Park suffers a little because some Services stats have been requisitioned for the R.A.F v. Western Command match at Blackpool, there was never yet a Liverton Derby which didn’t pail in a worthy crowd, and the Lord Mayor’s War Fund, and should benefit by something apt encroaching four figures. The absence of Lawton, and T.G. Jones is partily balanced by the appearance of Joe Mercer, and the Liverpool fans are who is relishing the return after his cartilage trouble of George King Kaye, as well as the inclusion of Harry Eastham and Phil Taylor, who are likely to be available this season. Manager George Kay is still minus a right back and inside left. I understand from an outside source, there is chance that Ronnie Dix may after all play for Liverpool this season instead of Wrexham. Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.E.), Greenhalgh; Mercer, M. McDonnell, Watson; Grant, Bentham, McIntosh, Stevenson, G. Makin (seventeen-year-old player of promise). Liverpool; Hobson; A.N. Other, Gulliver; Kaye, Hughes, Pilling; Eastman, Taylor, Done, A.N. Other, Campbell.
EASY GOALS FOR BOTH SIDES
August 19, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Everton-Liverpool Help War Fund
By Ranger.
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (J.E.), and Greenhalgh (captain) backs; Mercer, McDonnell (M.), and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Bentham, McIntosh (Preston), Stevenson, and Makin (G.), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Jackson (Everton) and Gulliver (Reading), backs; Kaye, Hughes, and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Taylor (P.) (captain), Done, Milam (Doncaster Rovers)(ex-Blue), Hooligan, forward. Referee; Mr. J.N. Brown, Royal Marines. Two goals in the first eight minutes was an enlivening introduction to the season for 17,000 at Goodison Park, today, for the meeting of Everton and Liverpool in aid of the Lord Mayor’s Fund. The first goal came after five minutes when McIntosh put the ball nicely to Stevenson, who lofted it goalwards in somewhat leisurely fashion. He was probably as surprised as most people to see Hobson fail to effect what could have been a simple save, the ball passing just under the bar. Three minutes late Done had equalised, also in slightly fortunate fashion, for when he jumped up at the same time as Burnett to connect with Campbell’s long pass from the wing, Done just got his head there for the goalkeeper. The best shot of the match so far was a real pile-driver from Hulligan which brought forth a brilliant save from Burnett.
Penalty Goal
When Hulligan was brought down in the penalty area Referee Brown had no hesitation in awarding a spot kick, despite Everton’s strong protest, from which Done put Liverpool ahead at the 18th minute. The thrills were still coming fast and furious and within a minute Stevenson almost dashed through; only a quick run out by Hobson preventing the equaliser. Two long dribbles followed from the respective right halves, first Mercer and than Kaye, but in neither case did the move produce a shot. A prolonged bout of dribbling just inside the Liverpool penalty area got everybody in a tangible until Jackson who had come to Liverpool’s rescue and was playing right back for the visitors cleared with one of his characteristic hefty kicks.
Disallowed
Another thrill for the spectators arose in a neat move between Watson, Makin, and McIntosh, which ended with the letter netting from the winger’s pass, but Referee Brown disallowed the point on the score of offside. There could have been only a foot or so in it.
TWO GOALS IN EIGHT MINUTES
August 19, 1944. The Evening Express
Goodison “Derby.”
By Pilot.
Everton had to loan George Jackson to Liverpool for the Derby match at Goodison Park today, in aid of the Lord Mayor of Liverpool’s War Fund and which gave soccer its send-off for the season on Merseyside. Liverpool had to make changes Campbell going to outside right with Malam of Doncaster Rovers, at inside right. Phil Taylor was at inside left, captaining the team, with Hulligan at outside left. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (J.E.), and Greenhalgh (captain) backs; Mercer, McDonnell (M.), and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Bentham, McIntosh (Preston), Stevenson, and Makin (G.), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Jackson (Everton) and Gulliver (Reading), backs; Kaye, Hughes, and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Taylor (P.) (captain), Done, Milam (Doncaster Rovers)(ex-Blue), Hooligan, forward. Referee; Mr. J.N. Brown, Royal Marines. Taylor was the first to show his paces, beating two men as he raced to goal, but Jack Jones held up as he tried to find Done. Mercer treated the 15,000 spectators to one of his electric dribbles, and the ball was pushed back to Stevenson whose shot was too high. Campbell got away and centred accurately. Burnett seemed to be beaten, but he flung himself out and pulled the ball down with one hand. Hulligan dashed in with one of his surprises shots but the ball swung away from goal. In five minutes Everton took the lead through Stevenson. The ball was pushed up the middle to McIntosh, who neatly headed it aside and downwards for Stevenson to take it in his stride and score with a left foot shot from 18 yards. The ball swerved into the net as Hobson was moving to come out.
Scores Level
In four minutes Liverpool were level, thanks to the enterprising Done. From a goal kick the ball went to Done who fed Campbell. The winger placed to the centre, and as Burnett came out to gather, Done leapt up and headed the ball over the goalkeeper and into the net. This was a case of head beating hands. Two goals in eight minutes was merry going and set the spectators on their toes. Hulligan took a short on the full volley as he was speeding for goal, Burnett flinging himself out to make a sensational one-handed save. Liverpool kept up the pressure, Burnett coming out to pull down a dangerous centre from Taylor. In 18 minutes Liverpool were awarded a penalty for a foul on Hulligan and Done gave them the lead, after taking the kick twice. Both teams were playing fats football, with Liverpool’s defence steadier and the forwards consequently more dangerous. McIntosh got the ball into the net from Makin’s pass, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
CONTRAST IN STYLES
August 21, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 2, Liverpool 5
Liverpool’s Speed Decides
By Ranger
The Lord Mayor of Liverpool ‘s war fund will benefit by £1,150 from the pre-season game between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park, won 5-2 by Liverpool. They deserved their victory, for they were a yard quicker to the ball every time, produced three shots to every one of Everton’s and were sounder in defence. In contrast to Liverpool’s direct methods, Everton frequently nullified their attack by over-doing the short passing game. Too often a bout of combination meandered aimlessly until it finished up almost where it had started, and too often moves which promised well broken down became an Everton man passed the ball tamely to an opponent. The home attack never got going sweetly as a combined force, and though Mercer tried hard to point the way to goal, the half-back line missed the commanding presence of T.G. Jones. Stevenson scored the first and last goals of the day, sandwiched between being two from Done, and one from Malam in the first half, and two from Done in the second. Done, a quick moving and strong shooting opportunist was well supported by his co-forwards while Liverpool’s half-back line was a potent force in the victory. Kaye showed no sign of his eight months absence, and played a grand game. Hughes was brilliant at centre-half. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (J.E.), and Greenhalgh (captain) backs; Mercer, McDonnell (M.), and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Bentham, McIntosh (Preston), Stevenson, and Makin (G.), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Jackson (Everton) and Gulliver (Reading), backs; Kaye, Hughes, and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Taylor (P.) (captain), Done, Milam (Doncaster Rovers)(ex-Blue), Hooligan, forward. Referee; Mr. J.N. Brown, Royal Marines.
• Tommy Lawton scored twice for Western Command in a 2-2 draw with the R.A.F at Blackpool in front of 40,000.
TEAM PROBLEMS FOR REDS AND BLUES
August 21, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Problems face the Liverpool and Everton football clubs. Yes, this despite the fact that at Goodison Park on Saturday they gave a particularly bright exhibition to delight 16,228 spectators who responded with nearly £1,200 in cash for the Lord Mayor of Liverpool’s War Fund, bring total contributions for such games to more than £4,000. One can appreciate from the fact that Liverpool won 5-2 (yes, 1943 history repeated itself) that their worries are not quite as pressing as those of Everton, in fact, I hasten to emphasise that I consider, Liverpool will prove one of the great teams of the season which opens on Saturday, I mean great in every sense of the word. Yet Liverpool are solely troubled about the right back position, for Westby has left the area, and Ken Seddon, out of football since before Christmas, is only just playing himself in again. Everton generously loaned Jackson to the Reds on Saturday, and no doubt Manager Mr. George Kay is hoping that the Blues can spare the enthusiastic George for future matches. Liverpool may solve their troubles by drafting seasoned players into strange positions. The players are willing, and a true football contention is that a good player can play anywhere. Certain it is that Liverpool will have a wonder attack especially if they get permission to play Dix. Such a happening would release versatile Phil Taylor for right back, and believe me Phil can play there with distinction. Everton’s worries are pronounced, and pre-knowledge and actual match form clearly indicate that the Blues need a first class centre-half as deputy to injured Tommy Jones, and as in the past couple of years, wingers. Of course, with Syd Rawlings, of Millwall, coming along for outside-right. Everton will be well served there, but what is to happen on the left when Jimmy McIntosh is called on to play for Preston? Makin needs more experience, and I feel that another season with the reserves will be the makings of this lad. That goes for Matt McDonnell who played centre-half. Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly experimented with McDonnell as a full back late last season, and from what I saw of Matt on Saturday I think he is destined to gain his honours as a back and not a half back. His whole style of play is that of a full back.
They’re Fit
The most gratifying feature of Saturday’s rousing game was that the two players injured last season were found to be 100 per cent fit. I refer to Alex Stevenson and George Kaye. Congratulations to both and for their excellent display. Stevenson and indefatigable Joe Mercer, whom it was a delight to see again, were the two men who redeemed the Everton side. Stevenson shared forward honours with Cyril Done (effectiveness personified), while Mercer was the man who strove so valiantly for 90 minutes to weld Everton into a team and get it moving. Burnett made some sensational saves in goal yet could be faulted like Hobson when it came to picking the right moment for coming out. Watson was fine for an hour and McIntosh a grand trier, but in all other matters Everton were outshone and out-played by a mighty Liverpool driving force which may easily prove the outstanding team in the north. They played as a team with an enthusiasm and speed to be envied. Apart from the opening ten minutes they were always better than the Blues, being faster to possession and in development. That super half-back line of Kaye, Hughes and Pilling was the unshakable hub around with revolved a high-powered soccer machine which spelled goals every time it moved. Led by the boisterous, sharp shooting Done, who got four goals, the Reds made Everton’s defence slow and uncertain, for McDonnell could not hold Done. On the other hand Hughes –yes here is an England player of the future without doubt –kept a tight rein on McIntosh, who got no shooting chances, Malam, the loose-ball finder, got the Reds’ other point, while two spontaneous shots by Stevenson produced the Everton’s goals, Jackson was the game’s best back; Campbell did well up to the time of an injury, which may make him an absentee next week; Pilling was a wonder worker; Taylor, the unostentatious general; and Hulligan (on leave, so ready for Saturday) the crackerjack raider Jack Jones and Greenhalgh had too much thrown on to them, and Grant and Bentham have been happier. I think Bentham is happier these days in the half-back line, and I suggest that the Everton directors consider making Stan, a player with inbounded enthusiasm and energy, their centre-half until Tommy Jones returns. It was Liverpool’s laurels on this happy reunion between two directorates of good fellows, led by chairman Mr. Will Gibbins, of the Blues, and Mr. Billy McConnell, of the Reds, a fine lot of players’ and many cherished soccer friends. The perfect conditions of the playing area was concrete proof that baseball does no harm to a football field. Groundsman Ted Storey and his workers presented a picture pitch.
THREE TO ONE
August 21, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Liverpool’s Shooting Won The Day
Ranger’s Notes
Though it didn’t produce anything wilding exciting, the pre-season game between Everton and Liverpool was a pleasant introduction to Soccer joys ahead, and provided a nice little windfall of £1,150 for the Lord Mayor’s War Fund. It also showed that Everton have some spots to strengthened if they are to improve on last season’s performances, though it would be unfair to judge to harshly on the basis of this single test. Once again the home side forgot the Euclidian truism that the quickest method of progression between two given points is in a straight line. Too often they indulged their fondness for the roundabout route, bouts of “get-you-nowehere” passing frequently finishing up no nearer the opposition goal than when they started. What was worse, attacking efforts of some promise were ruined time after time by a direct pass from an Everton forward to a Liverpool defender. The winners deserved their success because they cut out the circumstances and made a bee-line for goal, and because they never stood upon the order of their shooting, but shot whenever they had the slightest opportunity. Everton didn’t even shoot when they could see the whites of Hobson’s eye –they wanted to get close enough to count his eyelashes. At a conservative estimate Liverpool had at least three shots to Everton’s one, and the side which produces that proportion is in variously on the winning end at the final whistle. It was well for Everton that Burnett was in brilliant form, or the margin might have been larger than 5-2. Stevenson got a couple of good goals, the first of which ought to have been saved, and the second a gift from McIntosh. Apart from that, Mercer often looked the most dangerous though the ball didn’t run kindly for him in his characteristic dribbles. Those Liverpool fans who watched Kaye with anxious eyes must have been gratified to see that his operation and long lay-off hadn’t affected his form. Done again proved what an opportunist he is. He might lack something in one or two directions, but he’s a glutton for work, rattles the defence; and gets the goals, and when all’s said and done that’s the main object. A bag of four to start the season is good going, even if one was a penalty. Talking of the penalty, Referee Brown of bellringer fame, rang another kind of bell when he gave the award against Jack Jones under the new rules which was introduced just before the war, whereby, the man in the middle is empowered to penalise what would otherwise be a fair charge if it is delivered when the player concerned is not attempting to play the ball. Mr. Brown was quite right though many referees today wink a blind eye at this rule.
GOODISON PARK’S PARADE OF YOUTH
August 24, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Everton’s fixed determination to give youth its fling rather than overload their team with players from other clubs is reflected in the selection of their team to meet Manchester United at Goodison Park on Saturday. Changes were expected following the defeat at the hands of Liverpool, but it is pleasing to think that encouragement is being given to juniors to make the grade. Alterations might have been made at centre-half and outside-left, but there is no denying that the juniors concerned –Matt McDonnell and George Makin –will receive all the encouragement in the world from the fact that they are to be given extended trials. Many a promising soccer career has been ruined on its early stages by hasty decisions. Given time and experience I think these players will turn out winners. McDonnell is the lad who came from Haydock B and C, Social, while Makin is a local boy. Definitely they have the right material and it only needs development. I certainly think Syd Rawlings will prove an asset for outside-right has been a worry spot for the Blues, for the past three seasons. Rawlings may be the one guest player although Harold Bell, the vastly-improved Tranmere Rovers player, may be along as reserve if he cannot get to Manchester with the Rovers. It is a typical Tranmere gesture that they should offer Bell. This should be a game with youth stealing the headlines for the United have decided that their juniors shall be given every chance. The United have Jack Smith and Warner injured and so they turn to their former Gosling. The Goslings is the United junior side which, last season, won all six competitions for which they entered and which is named after the man who runs the side –Mr. Abraham Gosling, a real United enthusiast. I am told to keen a sharp eye on 18-year-old Donald Walton, the right back, who is a Manchester plumber and whom United regard as their best discovery in the defensive line for years. Another outstanding youngster is Cockburn, the inside-right or right-half, who made his senior debut last Saturday and who did so well. Another junior is Mycock will be leading the attack, and my information is that here is a boy who is going to prove quite a big noise in the near future. Jimmy McInnes, of Liverpool, will play as a guest at inside-left. Manchester United; Breedon; Walton, Roughton; Cockburn, Porter, Whalley, McKay; Bryant, Currier (Bolton Wanderers), Mycock, McInnes (Liverpool), Bartholomew (Grimsby Town).
• Everton Reserve s go to Rootes Athletic , who have F. Sheppard back from Carlton.
EVERTON’S TWELVE
August 24, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton will have five of their pre-war championship side in the team which will open the season’s programme at Goodison Park against Manchester United, together with two amateurs and one guest. The latter is Rawlings, formerly with Southport, who figures at outside right. As Mercer has gone back to his unit, Grant takes over at right half, with Lawton returning to lead the attack. McIntosh has been recalled by Preston, so that the amateur Makin continues as partner to Stevenson. Jackson is at right back in place of Jones. Team; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, McDonnell, Watson; Forwards from Rawlings, Wainwright, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, G. Makin.
Everton and Liverpool will be well represented in the Army team to play Ireland at Belfast on September 9, Mercer, Lawton, Busby, Dix, and Welsh being among the fifteen players provisionally chosen.
• Former Wrexham Player killed. Relative of Fusilier William Bryan, a professional footballer, have been informed that he has been killed in action. in the 1938-39 season he played for Swindon and previously for Southend. Wrexham and Sunderland. Daily Post August 25, 1944.
• Mercer, the Everton and England half-back will play for Aldershot in their home game with Millwall.
GOODISON OPENING
August 25, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
It falls to the lot of Everton to set the ball rolling in Liverpool, and they have a prime attraction for Goodison Park in a visit from First Division colleagues Manchester United. Here is a match in which youth certainly captures the spotlight, for apart from McDonnell and Makin, of the Blues, the United bring along three of their wartime youngsters in Walton, Cockburn, and Mycock. Everton still have team doubts and their only guest will be Syd Rawlings, of Millwall, and a fine player at that. No fewer than six of Everton’s pre-war players are included in the side, while the United’s guests will be our Anfield friend Jimmy McInnes –operating at inside-left –Currier, deadly Bolton sharp-shooter, and Bartholomev, from Grimsby Town. I can tell you that If Lawton can play and evergreen Porter finds Tommy a little trouble-some the United will switch Walton to centre-half to deal with Lawton. That is a move the United have up their sleeves. Everton may not have quite the old glamour, but they have the spirit and may repeat last season’s shock when, many reserves, they defeated the United 6-1 at Goodison. However, whatever the result, we should see a grand struggle, starting at three o’clock. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, McDonnell (M.), Watson; forwards from; Rawling, Wainwright, Bentham, Lawton, A.N. Other, Stevenson, G. Makin. Manchester United; (from); Breedon; Walton, Roughton; Warner, Cockburn, Porter, Whalley, McKay, Bryant, Currier, Mycock, McInnes, Batholomew
A TOUCH NUT
August 25, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton set the ball rolling in the city with a visit from Manchester United, who last season were one of the best sides in the North. If they are anything like up to that standard again. Everton will find them a tough nut to crack. Unfortunately the home side are very likely to be without Lawton, who expects to be at an Army Cadet athletic meeting at St. Helens. Compared with last week, Everton have Rawling, ex-Southport, whom they hope will solve one of their wing problems. McDonell, who had a bad time against Done, remains at centre half, and Makin who also was below par, gets another chance. If the attack will beat two things in mind their chances will be brighter; first that approach work which isn’t rounded off with shots is unless; and second that the open game is likely to pay better than excessively close passing. United have eight of last season’s players in their thirteen probably, the remainder being three guests –McInnes (Liverpool), Currier (Bolton), and Bartholomew (Grimsby) –and two former “A” teamers, Cockburn and Mycock, who have distinguished themselves in trial matches. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, McDonnell (M.), Watson; forwards from; Rawling, Wainwright, Bentham, Lawton, A.N. Other, Stevenson, G. Makin. Manchester United; (from); Breedon; Walton, Roughton; Warner, Cockburn, Porter, Whalley, McKay, Bryant, Currier, Mycock, McInnes, Batholomew
EVERTON LOSE THE LEAD
August 26, 1944. The Evening Express
Burnett’s Penalty Save
By Pilot.
Tommy Lawton, England’s leader, captained Everton for the first time when they entertained Manchester United at Goodison Park, today, in the opening Football league match of the season. Wainwright was at inside right in place of Bentham, and Syd Rawlings, of Millwall, made his debut for the Blues. The United had one change, for Warmer was found to be fit and able to play at right back. A notable absentee from the game was the secretary Mr. Theo Kelly, whose absence may mean important business for the club. It is a long time since Mr. Kelly missed an Everton match. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, McDonnell (M.), and Watson, half-backs; Rawlings (S.) (Millwall), Wainwright (E), Lawton, Stevenson, G. Makin, forwards. Manchester United;- Breedon, goal; Walton and Roughton, backs; Warner, Porter and Whalley, half-backs; Bryant, Currier (Bolton), Mycock, McInnes (Liverpool), and Batholomew (Grimsby), forwards. Referee; Mr. A. C. Denham. Everton started on a high note for Lawton swept-past Porter to force a corner which Wainwright headed against the far post. The ball rebounded to Makin. With all the goal to shoot at the Breedon out of position he drove a yard over. The thrills came thick and fast, for after Wainwright had twice opened up the attacks well for Everton. Bartholonew broke away and as he was about to centre he was force over the goal line.
Penalty Award
The referee awarded a free kick and as Bartholomew took if from the line Jackson jumped up to intercept but did so with his hand, so that in four minutes the United were awarded a penalty Roughton took the kick and drove hard and high a little to Burnett right. The Goalkeeper fisted the ball away with two hands amid tremendous excitement among the 15,000 spectators. The United’s clever interception worried the Blues and nipped several promising attacks in the bud. Wainwright had speeded up considerably from last year –his baptismal season –and he took over from Rawlings to let go a fast right foot rising shot, which Breedon beat away with one hand magnificently. Everton were fortunate to survive another Bartholomew raid; for Bryant and Currier had shots charged down before Jackson managed to clear the lines. Grant put Everton on the attack again and Lawton pivoted to let go a magnificent left-foot shot to which Breedon dived to turn around the post. This was a typical Lawton effort –a shot of accuracy and power, although he looked to be hemmed in.
Defences Sound.
A curling centre from Rawlings was turned aside by Breedon before Rawlings came inside for a shot which cannoned of Walton over the top. The keen tackling of the defences was bringing about a quick collapse of promising attacks, and there was little to choose between two keen, alert sides. Everton took the lead in 27 minutes Rawlings, but lost it in the next minute through Mycock. Rawlings broke away after the United had been pressing and took full advantage of the United’s vain appeal for off-side to run close in and score with an unstoppable shot. Straight from the kick-off the United attacked and Batholomew pushed the ball in along the floor, Burnett seemed to have it well covered. Mycock, however, nipped in and with his right foot, just flicked the ball over Burnett’s hand into the net. The game continued lively, with the United keeping a particularly close watch on Lawton. Everton were not opening out the game as cleverly as usual, and in 37 minutes found themselves a goal down, when Burnett came out to intercept a centre from Bartholomew but missed the ball which smacked Currier on the back and bounded into the net. Right on right on the interval Lawton let go a wonder shot from 20 yards, and with Breedon beaten all ends up, the ball crashed against the bar and away before the in-running Rawlings could take advantage.
Half-time; Everton 1, Manchester United 2.
The United served up some magnificent football on resuming, in fact the most precise inter-passing of the day, and they seemed to be playing full of confidence, whereas the Everton defence was not at all comfortable. Lawton rallied his forces and got the attack moving dangerous, but Makin twice failed with his finishing. Lawton had hard luck with a magnificent header which Breedon saved with one hand, although it seemed as if the ball had crossed the line, Mycock was giving McDonnell tons of worry and Whalley repeatedly frustrated the Everton forwards as they tried to developed. Rawlings got away and his centre came just a little too high for Lawton, whose quick shot was well held by Breendon. Makin came inside for a right foot shot which passed by the post, as Everton turned on the pressure, and then Breedon saved low down from Stevenson.
Breedon’s Saves.
Breedon dived and caught a shot from Rawlings on his feet, and then was lucky to intercept Wainwright almost on the goalline. Next forced Wainwright to shoot over the top. Breedon then came out to pull down a centre from Makin and next punched away a cross from Rawlings. Lawton gathered the ball on the touchline and beat four men as he came into the centre, only to find Walton there to baulk him as he shot. Bryant cut in and shot, Burnett punching away with one hand, and the Breedon saved a header from Lawton.
GOODISON THRILLS
August 26, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
United Miss Penalty Against Everton
By Ranger
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, McDonnell (M.), and Watson, half-backs; Rawlings (S.) (Millwall), Wainwright (E), Lawton, Stevenson, G. Makin, forwards. Manchester United;- Breedon, goal; Walton and Roughton, backs; Warner, Porter and Whalley, half-backs; Bryant, Currier (Bolton), Mycock, McInnes (Liverpool), and Batholomew (Grimsby), forwards. Referee; Mr. A. C. Denham. Sixteen thousand spectators who attended Everton’s opening match today against Manchester United at Goodison Park had some early thrills. First of all Wainwright headed against the upright from a corner with Breedon well eaten, and Makin from the rebound missed a glorious chance of putting Everton in front, screwing the ball high over the bar from very close range. Two minutes later the home goal had an equally narrow escape when Roughton shot straight at Burnett from a penalty given against Jackson, who had handled the ball when United took a free kick from the edge of the area. The next incident of note was another good effort by Wainwright which produced a nice save by Breedon. A spell rather featureless play was followed by an assault by the visitors on the Everton goal, in which in quick succession, four shots were blocked –some a trifle fortunately by Everton defenders. At this period Lawton produced the best shot so far, a hefty left-footer which almost caught Breedon napping. Rawlings scored for Everton after 28 minutes.
LAWTON LACKS SUPPORT
August 28, 1944, The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 1, Manchester United 2
Chances Missed
By Rangers.
Everton were unfortunate not to get at least one point, for although the visitors were slightly the better in the first half, the second portion was nearly all Everton’s. Territorial superiority, however, was accompanied by strong shooting, wherein lay the reason for Everton’s failure to wide out United’s lead. Apart from Lawton, who was the only Everton forward to look likely to score the home attack produced no shots worthily of note in the second half, bar one angled effort by Rawling, which was gave Breedon’s spot of trouble in the first half, however, they had bad luck when Wainwright and Lawton each hit the woodwork with the visiting goalkeeper, well beaten, while Martin in the first minute, missed the easiest of chances from close range. Had the winger accepted this opening the outcome might have been different; for it would have given Everton confidence.
Penalty Missed
United also had their misses, including a penalty, taken by Roughton, for a rather doubtful decision against Jackson, and there was a tinge of fortune about both their goals. Rawlings opened the score for the home side after twenty-eight minutes, when Wainwright put him through with a long upward pass, and the spread-eagle United defence stood still awaiting the whilst. A minute later United were level, McDonnell having the misfortune to deflect the ball past Burnett who seemed to have it well covered and just before the interval Currier got a gift goal when Burnett misjudged the fight of an in-swinging corner kick and missed the ball completely, leaving Currier with an unguarded goal. Apart from the one slip, Burnett was excellent throughout. Everton’s attack could make little impression of United’s dour and solid defence, which stood up well to the home side’s second half pleasure, Lawton was poorly supported, seldom getting the type of pass, which gave him even a fifty-fifty chance against opposition. Nevertheless, he, managed to deliver some good efforts, including two magnificent drives which will deserved a goal each. United’s front line was more cohesive though here also shooting at a premium, Everton’s defence showed occasional signs of shakiness under pressure, due mainly to lack of understanding, between McDonnell and the backs –a weakness which time will remedy. The wing halves played well, Manchester have discovered a promising centre forward in Mycock and McInnes, the Liverpool half-back did well for them at inside-left, Porter was a tower of strength. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, McDonnell (M.), and Watson, half-backs; Rawlings (S.) (Millwall), Wainwright (E), Lawton, Stevenson, G. Makin, forwards. Manchester United;- Breedon, goal; Walton and Roughton, backs; Warner, Porter and Whalley, half-backs; Bryant, Currier (Bolton), Mycock, McInnes (Liverpool), and Batholomew (Grimsby), forwards. Referee; Mr. A. C. Denham.
• County Combination; Rootes 3, Everton Reserves 2
• Liverpool beat Stockport 3-2, Done (2), Welsh for Liverpool and Catterick and Gee for Stockport.
GOODISON LESSONS
August 28, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
There were lessons to be learned by Everton from their defeat at Goodison. While the Blues may be considered unlucky in that so many scoring shots were fortunately kept out, it cannot be denied that the United were the more immaculate football combination for the major portion. Neither of the Everton youngsters –McDonnell and Makin –quite made the grade. McDonnell can be excused to a certain extent fore he pulled a muscle in the opening minutes, and then things ran against him continually even in the scoring of the United’s equaliser after Rawlings had given Everton the lead. Burnett failed to gather the ball away coming out, and when Mycock nipped in with his flick McDonnell tried to stab the ball, but it bounced away into the net. It was Mycock’s goal, but actually the ball went in off Mac’s foot as he tried to stop it and so could not be blamed in any way. No, the error was Burnett’s and the credit Mycock’s. Makin missed an open goal in the first minute and then was out of touch. Everton need strengthening in these spots, although I think the Blues were right in giving the lads extended trials. Although Maurice Lindley, from Northampton, Charlie Gee, from Stockport, and Charlesworth, of Grimsby Town, were there ready to play centre half, Everton stuck loyally to McDonnell, and it should encourage a lad, who the build and the heart. It was just that McDonnell could not hold the defence together so that Everton conceded loopholes which one rarely saw in the United rearguard. Rawlings, definitely, is going to prove a big assert to Everton, and Wainwright showed in the opening half that he has made expected advancement.
Brilliant Lawton
The man of the match –and a good match –was Tommy Lawton. The new captain was simply magnificent not only in shooting and general leadership, but in sheer grafting Lawton was never idle and literally drove his side on. Lawton has scored fives and fours in matches, but in none can he have played with more earnestness and brilliance than he did on Saturday. Tommy shot superbly, but found the woodwork and the grand goalkeeping of Breedon, defying him. Grant worked industriously and always recovered well, while Greenhalgh and the steadiest in a none too-sure rearguard. Everton can and will do better than this. There was a direct hint to Liverpool in the game. That is that Jimmy McInnes is right back to his best and fat too good to be allowed as a guest player for any club. Jimmy’s place is at Anfield right now.
EVERTON UNLUCKY
April 28, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton had 17,034 spectators which considering lack of transport and other things, compare favourably with the 25,017 who attended their opening in the last peace-time season. It was a pity they hadn’t Everton victory to cheer. In saying that Manchester had all the luck I’m not seeking to whitewash the home side’s weaknesses which were very apparent, United got a gilt when McDonnell scored their first goal for them thus equalising Rawlings’s opening one for Everton and another when Burnett usually so safe with his catches, misjudged the fight of a swerving corner and missed the ball altogether, leaving Currier an empty goal to head into. This was Burnett’s only error. Otherwise’s he was excellent. McDonnell’s slip was due to over-anxiety. He hasn’t yet got the understanding with his goalkeeper and backs that Tommy Jones has –it would be a miracle if he had so soon –with consequence that the defenders occasionally of in one another’s way in their anxiety to cover up, and were inclined to be nearly under pressure. Though Lawton didn’t score it wasn’t for want of trying. He delivered two terrific shots in the first half one of which hit the woodwork with Breedon beaten to the world as he was with Wainwright’s early header which suffered similar fate and in the second half when Everton had four-fifths of the game territorially Lawton was the only forward who ever looked likely to score. Unfortunately he was very poorly supported. Invariably passes were put right to him as Porter stood at his elbows instead of being sent to the open spaces where his speed and quick control would have given him at least an even chance. Grant and Watson were good at wing half but the former might try to guard against his propensity for wandering away to the other wing and leaving the opposition left flank a clear path to goal. United were sound in defence and more cohesive that Everton in attack. They’ve found a promising youngster in centre forward Mycock who is cast in the Grant mould for hard work and determination. McInnes the Liverpool half back made a useful inside forward. Everton have asked permission to play Bury original due at Goodison on September 16, in mid-week, in view of the Anfield international that day. Remembering the F.A.’s attitude to mid-week matches I’m not hopeful.
BOYES AND LINDLEY IN EVERTON TEAM
August 31, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Wally Boyes, and Maurice Lindley, two of Everton’s pre-war stars, will be on duty against Manchester United in the return Football League match at Maine-road on Saturday. These are the only changes in the side defeated 2-1 at Goodison Park, for Tommy Lawton will be able to lead the side and the attack. Boyes plated for Lincoln City last Saturday, and scored a goal, and his return to outside-left for the Blues will bring considerable strength to the attack for Makin needs that little extra experience. It is unfortunate that Lindley is free to play, for McDonnell will be out of the game for a couple of weeks because of the pulled muscle which handicapped him on Saturday, Lindley takes over at centre-half, although in pre-war days he was a wing, half-back. However, Maurice has had plenty of experience in the centre of late, operating there both of Bradford City and Northampton Town. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Lindley, Watson; Rawlings, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, Boyes
Stevenson may have to play for the R.A.F in which case Peters, of Doncaster Rovers, will deputise.
England’s Captain
Joe Mercer of Everton, has been elected captain of England in succession to Stan Cullis, and will lead the side against Wales at Anfield on Sept 16. Tommy Lawton, Joe’s Everton colleagues, has also been selected in the team.
Further news from Goodison Park is that Alex Stevenson has been released to play for Ireland against the Combined Services, in Belfast on Saturday, September 9, which means that Everton will be without two of their stars attackers that day, for Lawton also goes to Belfast.
Everton Reserves play Kirkby in the County Combination on Saturday.
EVERTON CHANGES
August 31, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Lindley, Centre Half
Everton have two changes in their side for the return game with Manchester United. Maurice Lindley, who was at Goodison last week, but wasn’t called upon, will be at centre half in place of the injured McDonnell, who is not likely to be fit for two or three weeks, and Walter Boyes home on leave, will revive old memories by partnering Stevenson. That is, if Stevenson is able to play. At the moment he is reserve for the R.A.F side to meet Wales at Wrexham, but Everton have asked for his release. We haven’t seen Lindsay in action at Goodison for a long time, in the early days of war he was Everton general utility man, and in twenty-seven appearances in the 1939-40 season filled no fewer than seven places in the side –all the half-back positions, right back, inside left, and outside right –doing himself credit in them all. Record for swops still belongs to George Jackson who in five successive games in 1941 appeared at right back, right half centre forward outside right, and goalkeeper. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant, Lindley, Watson; Rawlings, Wainwright, Lawton, Stevenson, Boyes. The club has released Alex Stevenson to play for Ireland against the Combined Services side at Belfast on Saturday week, and has also made the rearrangement of fixtures due to the international at Anfield on September 16 in addition to playing Bury, at Bury on September 9, Everton will also either for the return game the following week. Though the F.A. are shortly to reconsider the question of mid-week evening matches, the ban remains for the time being, and Everton’s request for a mid-week rearrangement was refused.
Everton will introduce three new comers to their reserve side for the game against Kirby at Goodison Park (3.p.m). They are Hull a centre half, strongly recommended by Hereford Town. McCormick an amateur from Bolton, and Craig a soldier stationed in this area, who has had a spell with Albion Rovers. Team; Birkett; Moore, Parkes; Parkin, Hull, McCormick; Kinsell, Daley, Wyles, Thomas, Craig.
Everton Colts play Birkenhead Sea Scouts at Birkenhead Park, 3.15.
August 1944