Everton Independent Research Data
NOW FOR THE COTTAGERS
February 2, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Everton Through After A Struggle
Ranger’s Notes
Let Everton reproduce the same fighting spirit and teamwork against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday as they did in the thrill-packed replay against Wolves and they should get through to the sixth round at the first time of asking. Everton’s victory was a triumph for mainly own the mumbo-jumbo of secret plans and maybe mascots. The only “instructions” the Toffees received was to go out and play their natural game, and do their best. Everton’s players will have a few days at Weybridge before the Fulham game, but this is for relaxation, not special training. Manager Jack Peart of Fulham says his boys also will have no special preparation, bar a visit to Brighton on Wednesday for brine baths. The Fulham team may not be finally chosen until Saturday morning, owing to doubts about Shepherds and Ayres the left wing pair. It used to e Liverpool who took the palm for fighting back against odds. Now Everton have a turn. To pull a cup-tie out of the fire after twice being in arrears is a good performance against any opposition. Against such a strong and well-knit side as Wolves it is doubly meritorious. This game had nearly everything –thrills galore, wonderful saves by both goalkeepers, narrow escapes, kicking-off-the-line incidents, defensive blunders, and an 89 minute equaliser which saved Everton’s bacon when all seemed lost. No wonder the Goodison supporters invaded the pitch at the finish and cleared Jackie Grant main instrument of Everton’s success. Curious feature about this match was that while both defences struck it well under heavy pressure except for the period in the second half when Everton were a trifle shaky, four of the goals came from defensive errors, and three of them by Wolves. Humphreys baulked Sagar he had the ball covered which led to Wolves first goal and errors of judgement by Shorthouse. Williams and Mclean were directly responsible for Everton’s goals. These were Wolves only slips. It was cruel luck that they should have been so heavily punished yet Everton must be given full credit for setting the gifts so smartly. Wolves could also count themselves unlucky through having to carry Mullen as a virtual passenger after the first ten minutes. McLean and Williams were also injured, though in neither case was the handicap unduly severe. To balance that Grant also limped badly for a long spell. Bar that ragged period early in the second half, when the smoothness and polish temporarily left them, the whole side worked as a well-balanced until. Special mention should be made of Fielding and Grant; the main architects of victory; of Wainwright for the lighting dashes and Catterick for his forcefulness. Humphreys for his solidity, Bentham and Watson for good all-round work, and Sagar for those two magnificent saves soon after the interval which crowned another brilliant display. Wolves’ best were Wright, Westcott, Williams, McLean and Dunn. Goodison supporters who indeed going to Fulham should note that only postal applications for tickets will e entertained. As Fulham’s seeking accommodation is extremely limited. Everton’s allocation will be very small. Prices of seat’s 5/- 7/6 and 10/6 and there are a few paddock tickets at 3/-.
IT’S ‘SOUTHWARD HO’ FOR EVERTON
February 2, 1948 The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton players will have a few day’s special relaxation at Weybridge this week in readiness for their F.A. Cup fifth round tie with Fulham at craven Cottage on Saturday following their sensational and dramatic victory over the Wolves in Saturday’s replay at Goodison Park. The Toffees are getting away to a quiet hotel now under our old friend of the Victoria days. Mr. Joe Baldwin, who looked after Everton’s “inner man” during the 1933 cup winning year. This a designed not so much for special training as for a rest and tonic and the avoidances of a long journey just before the tie. Before paying my tribute to the Everton lads let me just say a word about the Fulham game. Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly reemphasise that stand tickets are in short supply, in fact Everton have only 800 to satisfy all who want to visit London with prices at 10s, 6d; 7s, 6d, and 5s. There are some 3s paddock tickets. All applications must be by post with stamped addressed envelopes.
Potted Drama
If ever there was a football miracle we saw it on Saturday at Goodison Park –this great Goodison which in successive weeks has packed in 147,290 spectators including complimentary tickets) with cash receipts of £17,200. Yes it was a triumph for those who never lost faith in the great Everton battlers; the Sagars and the Bentham who to the last seconds urged on their team to...victory. Many a spectator is now sorry that he, too did not have that same faith in Everton. Hundreds left the ground, when Wolves were winning 2-1 and the seconds were flying. They thought more of homeward transport than football, and so missed the culminating thrills. I bet they will never forgive themselves. This is the potted drama of the flight-back. Everton opened grandly and looked well set for goals especially when Wolves had Mullen, McLean and Williams injured in turn but a tantalising misunderstanding and a tricky transformed a pass back into a gift goal for Westcott in 42 minutes. Everton continued a slight second best until Catterick robbed Shorthouse and Fielding came through with a grand equaliser in 64 minutes. The Wolves switched Wright the brilliant Wright to inside-left, and at the 74th minute, Wright and Mullen made Westcott’s second goal. It looked all over because Everton were not playing well. Came the vital moment. Mullen lobbed the ball towards the Everton goal with Sagar eight yards out. Sagar broke even time in dashing back, and he got there just in time to turn the ball over the top. That save was a message to Everton. There was hope and off they went to prove it. Grant was brought to centre-forward to worry Shorthouse. He did. Still no goals and hearts were in boots when Watson took a free kick from just inside the Everton half. The ball was headed wide and Williams ran out to it, but instead of making a catch he thought” waste a little time by kicking it. A corner and before Wolves could consolidate properly Fielding had the ball ready to kick. A swerving centre which Everton failed to get in and Wolves failed to clear and then the ball fell loose to little Grant who rammed it through a crowd of players into the net with ... 30 seconds to go by my stop watch snatched from them and they never recovered against an Everton whose every player must have left like a man reprieved on the morning of execution. Two reasonable chances were missed before Grant acted while Mclean hesitated and the low, square pass to Fielding at the 106th minute saw Fielding coolly pick his spot in Raich Carter manner and wham...the right foot shot never gave Williams a chance. It was all over, although the closing minutes were anxious enough in all conscience. Yet the Wolves, who hitherto had taken rather too much for “Grant” had to fight left in them and Everton might easily have had another goal had Catterick steadied himself just a fraction. Extra-time was all Everton. That is the brief story of a game we shall never forget, and in which ever Everton player played his vital part well at the right moment. Everton have that golden asset –the perfect team spirit and refusal to be beaten. Honestly, even I got excited as Everton rallied to win. One hesitates to individualise after such a game, but definitely the game was a triumph for the two mighty atoms –Fielding and Grant - for Sagar (modern miracle man who Everton assure us will play for England again this season); for three great battling half-backs for...yes everyone. The great opening half an hour of Cattetick and Dugdale; the unpretentious solidity of Saunders; the worrying work of Eglington and the storming finish of Wainwright once he played as a forward instead of a fourth half-backs. All these factors were welded together by a mightly spirit which keeps Merseyside bang in the Cup news. It needs only three more wins before Wembley.
EVERTON PREPARE FOR FULHAM HURDLE
February 3, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton’s fine run in the F.A. Cup competition is overshadowing all else. The Toffees are the main topic of conversation in train, tram and bus. Tonight the Everton directors meet to select the players for the game at Fulham on Saturday or, at least these who shall travel south. The club doctor’s report will be presented by Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly, for the players will be under the “medical eye” today in readiness for the meeting. Indications are that news is good regarding injuries. Peter Farrell, as I mentioned on Saturday, is making tremendous strides towards, complete fineness. Peter assured me he could eat all right and believe me if Peter can do that he is well night 100 per cent fit. Many is the time I have envied Farrell his hearty appetite. Humphreys received a blow in the chest during the closing stages of the game against Wolves, but was tough enough to carry on with the battle and Grant jarred a foot early on, but as you know well, he was there with the right touches at the vital moments. Tommy Jones is fit; in fact Mr. Kelly is quite cheerful about the outlook.
Bellefield Training
With the trip south as the main “item” on the Everton “menu” training at Bellefield will be rather restricted. The players were there today under Trainer Harry Cooke and his assistants having sprinting, ball-practices and the customary trial game in which the “heavy stuff” is barred.
Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly states that the Everton players will leave Liverpool for the south tomorrow afternoon. The number of tickets allocated to Everton have been over-subscribed and the club cannot entertain any more application. Farrell was out training with the other players today and heading the ball which is the best sign of his return to fitness that we have had since he fractured his jaw in the game with Derby County. Fulham are not having any special training but are working quietly at home. I have not seen Fulham this season, but an assured but someone who has seen them often that they are an exceptionally good side, playing last football along the floor much in the style of Tottenham Hotspur.
EVERTON’S CUP PREPARATION
February 3, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By John Peel
Starting today with medical examination to ascertain that they suffered no injuries in Saturday’s replay with the Wolves, the Everton players settle down to their-preparation for the fifth round F.A. Cup-tie against Fulham at Craven Cottage. After their ordinary training tomorrow they leave for Weybridge where they will remain until the day of the match, which, it was announced last night, is to be televised.
£2,700 TEAM
February 4, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Any follower of football who knows the pounds, shilling and pence of the game (and which of them does not?) will tell you that you cannot buy much in the football market with £2,700. Yet that is the total cost of the Everton side which beat Wolverhampton Wanderers. It is completely fallacious, of course to imagine anyone can go out and purchase a team for a similar sum and expect results because although £2,700 is ludicrously reasonable in one sense, the amount of effort put into producing these players as first-teamers is something beyond price.
Donations
It is impossible, to itemise the various Everton payments because such details are their own concern. Eglington cost something in the neighbourhood of £1,000; there were donations to junior clubs from which some others came. Sagar’s signing, long ago, was on a referee’s recommendation. It was a lucky stroke for Directors Will Gibbons and the late Tom McIntosh who signed Sagar in the restaurant of a Manchester station; an unlucky one for the referee who suffered a fate more damaging than a rap on the knuckles for disobeying (however well-intentioned he may have been) the law which forbids a referee to recommend anyone. Saunders was brought to the notice of Manager Theo Kelly by Dixie Dean, Humphreys of Llandudno, duly because of Everton and his club received a donation which enabled it to put a gale-damaged ground in good repair.
From Italy
Fielding, playing a lot of Army football in Italy, impressed Major Jack Sharp and after chasing his man over Southern counties the Everton secretary-manager eventually obtained his signature. Everton’s case is uncommon, but it is only fair to add that with Farrell and Dodds in the team, the story would be somewhat different. Few clubs are without one or more expensive buys. If there is a moral to be drawn from home production rather than preference for ready –made it is that a cheque book takes a club only part of the way, and no club can afford to be without the good will of many friends prepared to pass on information of what is considered to be a likely prospect.
Off-Today
Everton’s cup-tie at Fulham, is the next item of importance on the City’s football agenda. The players are being acclimatised by travelling to Weybridge today. There is no cup plan, except the one which dictates “Get the players fit; ask them to do their best, and leave them to work out their own salvation. Truth is stranger than fiction letter comes from a Wolverhampton Wanderers followers who attended Goodison Park on Saturday. He thanks the club for the way they handled the crowd, congratulates them on winning and wishes them well in the future. Now, there’s a rarity.
EVERTON’S 12 FOR FULHAM CUP BATTLE
February 4, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
The return of Peter Farrell, Everton’s Irish international half-back may be the only change in the team to oppose Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday in the F.A Cup Fifth Round. Farrell is included with the eleven players who defeated Wolves in the replay last Saturday and the side will not be selected until later –probably just before the match. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Farrell, Humphreys, Watson; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington,. The players went to Weybridge today to rest until the game.
THIRD TIME MAY BE LUCKY FOR EVERTON
February 6, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton are the sole survivors of the Merseyside clubs in the F.A. Cup competition, will endeavour to record their first-ever cup win over Fulham, when they meet in the fifth round at Craven Cottage tomorrow . This will be the second meeting in the Cup, but the clubs also clashed in the first war-time Cup- and Fulham had the laugh on both occasions –the first after forcing a replay. This is one of the occasions when I feel that third time will be lucky for the Toffees, for things are running their way in the Cup-matters except the luck of the draw. It is Everton ‘s third successive away game, but having beaten two First Division sides they should not fall against opposition from a lower sphere. Of course surprises make cup football, so nothing can be taken for granted. So far Fulham have disposed of Doncaster Rovers and Bristol Rovers, and this is the third time they have been drawn at home. Everton may not be the best of the 16 surviving sides, but I am confident that none of their rival possesses the same fighting quantities. The right back of the Toffee against the Wolves last Saturday was a tonic to themselves and every follower, and some thousands are travelling from Merseyside to pack into the compact ground on the banks of the Thames, the record for which is 49,335 –set up against Millwall in 1938. Maybe there will be room for a few more, but every inch of space will be needed. I have not seen Fulham since they put five past Everton in 1940 but have had two varying reports about them. The first was that they are a fast all-along-the-floor combination, and the second is that though a useful side, Fulham are not quite up to Everton’s standard but “Pat Beasley is playing as well as ever Watch “Him.” It should be a great tie and I feel pretty confident that Everton will not lose. Fulham (probable) Hinton; Freeman, Bacuzzi; Taylor, Bewley; Thomas (S.), Thomas (R.), Stevens, Beasley, Hincelwood, or Ayres. Everton (from) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Farrell, Humphreys, Watson; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
EVERTON SHOULD WIN
February 6, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
But Fulham Won’t Be Easy
Ranger’s Notes
Soccer interest tomorrow is mainly centred on the fifth round cup-ties, in which Lancashire still has five representatives standing, with Everton’s tilt against Fulham the chief item for Merseysides fans. I am disconcerting information reviving from a couple of exiled Liverpoolians that Fulham will not take a great deal of bating. I think they will though I fancied Everton to win at the first attempt. Cup-tie and League games are miles apart, and while at this stage of the tournament class usually begins to tell, Everton will find Fulham a dour lot. No Cup-tie side can be displaced. That way trouble dies. Fulham eleven is a combination of experience and youth with four internationals to add lustre to the team. Their goalkeeper is Ted Hinton the Irish International who gave such a grand show against England at Goodison Park last November. Left back Bacuzzi is a war-time international being capped same times between 1941 and 1943, with the partner Freeman the pair makes a strong real guard, though hardly good enough, I fancy to hold Everton’s forwards if they are in their best years. They half backs line of Quested, Taylor and Beasley is a well balanced tait. For Beasley of course is the former England, Huddersfield and Arsenal winger and though he is getting a bit old is the tooth, he is still a grand player, Beasley has alternated between inside left and the half back line this season. Fulham’s forwards line including a Welsh international at outside right is Sid Thomas a native of Merseyside how in the second season at Craven Cottage. Though on the small side, being not much bigger than Jackie Grant, he is a fearless and dangerous winger. Inside right is Bob Thomas (no relation to Sidney), who has had experience with Brentford and Plymouth. Centre forward Steven formerly with Wimbedon was originally an extreme winger, being pressed into service in the middle is an emergency. He had filled the breach well, having served ten goals in seven appearances as leader. Ayres has reported fit and plays at inside left, while outside left will be Cyril Grant, who was once on Arsenal’s books as a centre forward. Man for man, I think Everton have the pull and if they reproduced last weeks grand fighting spirit their should be in Monday’s sixth round daw. Fulham (probable) Hinton; Freeman, Bacuzzi; Taylor, Bewley; Thomas (S.), Thomas (R.), Stevens, Beasley, Hincelwood, or Ayres. Everton (from) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Farrell, Humphreys, Watson; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
EVERTON LAST EIGHT CHANCE
February 7, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
Cup Test To-day
Everton, at Fulham, may get a last eight Cup place, in which case they would be deserving of the only home draw which is possible between now and the semi-final. Their fighting ability at Grimsby and Wolverhampton was marked and even if Farrell is found unfit the side should be strong enough to win. In that case they would be repaying Fulham for a surprise defeat years ago when goalkeeper Beecham played superlatively for the Londoners. This time Sagar is likely to be the star goalkeeper. At veteran stage he is playing better than ever. The team as a whole should have all the confidence they need. Fulham; Hinton; Freeman, Bacuzzi; Quested, Taylor, Beasley; Thomas (s), Thomas (r), Stevens, Ayres, Grant (g). Everton (from); Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Farrell, Humphreys, Watson; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
FARRELL NCHOSEN TO PLAY AT LEFT HALF
February 7, 1948. The Evening Express
First Match Televised
By Pilot.
Everton directors were faced with a momentous decision before day’s F.A Cup Fifth Round tie with Fulham at the compact Craven Cottage ground. Peter Farrell reported recovered from his fractured jaw ad it came to a point of leaving out either Watson or Bentham. It was deceived to play Peter in his real position of left half, so Watson stood down. This was a great day for the hero of Everton’s Cup-tie to date –Ted Sagar. He was celebrating his 37th birthday in this, his 19th season, with the club. A curiously was that both clubs fielded a winger named Grant in the first ever football match to be televised. Fulham’s outside left was Cyril Grant, and there was at outside right for the Toffees of course, Jackie hero of the Wolves replay. There was at one time a doubt airing the televising for the aerial was struck by lightning yesterday. However, the £300 structure was repaired in time. Everton brought about 4,000 spectators with them and certainly they made themselves heard both on the streets of London in the morning and at the little ground, which five minutes before the game looked no more than comfortably filled. Fulham; Hinton, goal; Freeman and Bacuzzi, backs; Quested, Taylor and Beasley, half-backs; Thomas (s), Thomas (r), Stevens, Aryes, and Grant (c), forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys and Farrell, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. RJ Leafe (Nottingham). Strangely enough this was the third team Everton had met in the Cup to wear black, and once more again Bentham failed with the toss. Farrell soon got a grip of things by robbing S. Thomas near the corner flag, and the home supporters hooed Dugdale for three times placing into touch.
Sound Tackle
Beasley put Fulham in command with a lovely swinging pass which gave Thomas (R.) a chance but Farrell was there with the winning tackle. Ayres went through strongly to force a corner, which Sagar saved low down. Then Humphreys had to concede another corner to hold up Stevens. A men interpassing movement between Fielding and Farrell brought Everton into the game for the first time as an attacking force, and Eglington was sent away to provide Catterick with the chance for a left foot cross shot which flashed wide. Everton were still holding Wainwright back, but now he went forward to bring Grant in play, the centre causing Hinton a whole lot of trouble before the ball was whisked away for a corner from which Wainwright shot outside. Fulham were playing fast penetrative football but just a little too hurried to be really effective against Everton’s quick tackling defence. Just a point of extreme interest for the Anfield followers, Liverpool had representatives at a London game today the objective an inside left. I will say no more at the moment. Ayres engineered Fulham’s best move to date a sinuous run through which looked like bearing fruit until Farrell took command. Fielding was Everton’s great fetcher and carrier and he moved about to the utter bewildered of the Fulham wing half-backs.
Cleverer Side
Everton were proving the much cleverer side and their control of the ball was more masterly in a swirling wind, but these Fulham boys had speed plus, and were always dangerous when on the move. Grant let the ball run for the first time, and got the better of Bacuzzi, working well inside and being only a foot away with the shot. Thomas (S.) came right across field to get the Everton defence out of position, but a splendid raid ended when Humphreys took Steven’s shot on the chest. Grant and Wainwright drew the Fulham defence and when the ball was turned in to Catterick he beat the out running Hinton, but was forced too far to the left in closing o, and Freeman kicked away.
LET’S BRING FOOTBALL BACK TOI SANITY
February 7, 1948. The Evening Express
Transfer Fees Getting Out of Hand
Everton Team against Wolves Cost Less Than £3000
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Football must be brought back to sanity, the authorities can evoke some play to place a limit on transfer fees, the whole situation will get out of hand. The rise in fees is far too rapid, for since the start of the 1947-48 season the record has bounded from £15,000 to £20,000. Various suggestions have been put forward, but to little purpose, and I am convince that the only real way to defeat initiated fees is for the resistant grooming of young talent of the country. If proof be needed that it is not always money that buys success, let me point out that the Everton team which defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers last Saturday in that hectic thriller at Goodison Park cost Everton less than £3,000!
Yes Everton stand as the cheapest team in the First Division at the moment. Liverpool have any number of players who did not cost a penny –Jones, Liddell, Lambert, Balmer, Hughes, Minshull, Done, Watkinson and such –but this present Everton combination has been built up with the minimum of outlay. Only two players in last week’s side cost anything in transfer –Tommy Eglington about £2,500 and Stan Bentham a mere £450 to Wigan Athletic. Yes, a fact, less than £3,000 for two such grand servants, Bentham still continues one of the greatest grathers in football, while Eglington has, in the space of a year in English football, becomes one of the most feared outside-lefts in the land.
Wise Management
I doubt whether Everton or their pool ever had such cheap teams as at the present time, which, in itself, is high tribute to wise management. What is more, it shows that the officials of the two clubs have not, at least, gone money crazy. Only in cases of sheer necessity have the Toffees or Reds gone into the transfer market with “the sky the limits.” In the olden days both were pretty lavish spenders while Liverpool of course, paid out £12,500 for Albert Stubbins last season. Everton’s highest fee were for Tommy Johnson and Warney Cresswell, but even those pale into insignfance when ranged alongside the cash which changed hands recently over Tommy Lawton, Billy Steel, Len Shackleton and Albert Stubbins. Yes, and in 1905 –before my time –they regarded it as a scandal when Middlesbrough paid £1,000 to Sunderland for Alf Comman. I wish we were back to the £1,000 standard again, but better still to be pleasant Liverpool and Everton, who, in the past fortnight, have added jewels to their playing staff in the persons of Payne and Dunroe respectively. No fees apart from the £10 signing on payments and I guarantee that they will get as good service from such players –in time –as from those for whom they would have to pay out five-figure fees. There is an important difference between the two, for whereas the signing of the Dunroes and Paynes is a long-term policy the signing of a high-figured player is for immediate needs. When the devil drives you just have to go, you know, and nobody appreciates that more than myself. We cannot stop the big prices, unless the authorities step in, and around the early days of March you will see more fantastic deals. To return to this on so cheap Everton, however, one, could honestly put a £100,000 value on the side –at 1948 market prices –and maybe that is too low. Yet all these lads have been groomed and moulded at Goodison Park. They went as apprentices and have become master craftsmen. Ted Sagar came as a raw youth from Thorne Colliery, after having been turned down following trials with Hull City; George Saunders is a Birkenhead lad who went to the Toffees following strong recommelidations including one from Dixie Dean; Gordon Dugdale, Everton took from Bootle Schoolboys and developed to their own liking. Bentham, as I mentioned was secured from Wigan at a time when Mr. Charlie Spencer –now with Grimsby Town –was manager there. Peter Farrell came from shamrock Rovers with Tommy Eglington and my guess is that £5,000 or £6,000 covered the outlay for both. What finds, to be sure. Jack Humphreys was a war-time discovery, while Gordon Watson was merely a “make-weight” player. Fact. Everton signed Johnny Watson from Blyth Spartans and Gordon was thrown in to boost up the fee. Johnny stayed only a year at Goodison, but Gordon went on to become one of the greatest servants Everton have ever had or ever will have.
Italy Discovery
Jackie Grant is another “didn’t cost a penny” north-Eastern signing, while Eddie Wainwright was snatched from school before the war and played in the “B” team. Harry Catterick was recommended by former centre half “Charlie Gee” and Wally Fielding was spotted by Director Jack C. Sharp when serving in Italy. My colleagues Radar also sent home word from Italy that “I have seen an England player of the future in Fielding.” when one looks at these lads and rises to the thrills they can provide, the thought does come flashing through the mind money isn’t everything after all. This may not be the finest team Everton have ever had, but for sheer honesty of purpose, club loyalty and cheapness there never was a better.
ALL “SQUARE –EXTRA TIME AGAIN
February 7, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Great Fight For Lead At Fulham
Catterick Had Ball In Net.
Disallowed
Wainwright Limping on the Wing
By Stork
Fulham; Hinton, goal; Freeman and Bacuzzi, backs; Quested, Taylor and Beasley, half-backs; Thomas (s), Thomas (r), Stevens, Aryes, and Grant (c), forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Bentham (captain), Humphreys and Farrell, half-backs; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. RJ Leafe (Nottingham). The small ground was well and truly packed, and I believe the pitch would play well, although on the soft side. Much speculation was centred as to whether Farrell would play. He had an examination on Wednesday and the break had knitted well and Peter told me that he had never felt better, and was eager to get back into the game. It was Ted Sagar’s birthday –he is 37 –but still one of the greatest goalkeepers in football to-day, after 19 seasons in first class football.
Hero of 1926 Cup-Tie
I saw Ernie Beecham, the hero of the Everton –Fulham tie at Goodison in 1926. He is now looking after a small country club named Ware. Everton received a tremendous ovation when they came out and the same remark applied to Fulham. Fulham won the toss, and this means that they had the assistance of a strong breeze. Right from the kick-off Everton set their left wing moving. But they were soon repelled, and Fulham this time with their right wing worried their day to the corner flag where their endeavour was checked but not immediately.
Dangerous Centre
A quick throw-in by Beasley opened the way for a Fulham thrust, but Humphreys stepped in to thwart Stevens. Everton not to be outcome got the Fulham left flank on the wrong foot, and a centre by Grant saw Hinton scrape the ball away and before it could be finally disposed of Eglington had a shot which missed his mark. This Fulham team is more than useful. Wainwright put fear into the hearts of the Fulham spectators when he took a fine shot only to see it flash outside.
Harsh Treatment
Grant and Fielding got together and it needed strong defence by Bacuzzie to prevent Fielding bursting his way through. Personally I thought he was rather harshly treated when he was swept over the touchline. Peasley and Aryles were the danger wing and once their moves booed ill for Everton until Farrell dropped back to clear. Saunders, with an up-the-field pass put Catterick on the move, but the centre forward pushed the ball too far forward and so lost the chance. Fielding and Wainwright linked up to outwit the Fulham defence, who had to report to hands to prevent Wainwright’s shot getting through to Eglington. The free kick proved of no value.
Baccuzzi Steps In
Bucuzzi once stepped in to take a ball from Wainwright; that was meant for Grant. Had it reached its objective it would have caused considerable trouble to Fulham. There was one big chance for Everton when they had the Fulham defence in a tangle, but it ended when Grant shot outside. S. Thomas came right over to the left and it was from his work that Stevens was given a chance to shoot, but he banged the ball right against Humphreys who had come up to challenge. Fulham had plenty of pace, particularly on the wings. Taylor was keeping a close watch on Catterick and Beasley, with a wealth of football experience saw the need for the quick pass out to Grant (C.), who was dispossessed.
Sagar is Alert
Thomson took one chance well although a shot did not find Sagar napping the Everton keeper fielding the ball well and clearly. Stevens twice missed the target and Taylor was penalised for a foul on Catterick. The free kick was well-taken care of and then Humphreys brought down Stevens and another free kick was the order. Freeman was brought up to take it but he could not find a way through the Everton defence. A place kick enabled Eglington to swing over a long centre whilst Fielding got his head to but turned well wide of its objective. Quite the nicest movement up to now brought an Everton goal, Saunders, Wainwright, Catterick, and Grant laid the foundation stone to this goal, scored at 41 minutes, when it was left to Eglington to tap the ball into the empty net from Catterick’s pass, the goalkeeper having been drawn to the other side of the goal. Soon after Sagar had to save, but the last few minutes saw Everton on top, and they sounded the Fulham defence to its depth. Bearsley hit the upright just on time.
Half-time; Fulham nil, Everton 1.
Everton, with the wind behind them, immediately went into the attack without causing Fulham any great worry. Humphreys was once out-headed by Stevens put Saunders covered up and so what might have been dangerous became a mere trifle. Twice Dugdale stepped in to cut out Fulham advances, Farrell took the ball off Ayres’s toes, and the result was a save by Sagar from Quested’s long shot. Fulham were contesting the issue with enthusiastic football so that Everton’s slender lead could never be looked upon as the winner. When Grant set off on his own he had only two forwards to help him, Catterick and Eglington. I hardly got this written than Fulham produce the equaliser, it came at 65 minutes and it had its starting point in the right wing, S. Thomas did the initial play which was taken up by half-back. Quested whose shot just squeezed inside the post. Sagar had moved slightly. This goal naturally sent all Fulham men with delight and Sagar had to save from Stevens.
Extra Time Again?
Were we going to have extra time for the first time in succession? It looked like it. Catterick nearly saved us that fate when he headed against the crossbar with everyone beaten. Wainwright was hurt and had to leave the field, and while he was away Fulham’s Grant had the chance of a lifetime when he shot outside – a really bad miss, especially as this stage of the game.
Narrow Escape
Wainwright was off only a matter of minutes. Fulham were the more dangerous side just now, and Farrell had to use a back-heel tap to clear an onmous danger. Stevens screwed a big drive behind and Humphreys had to clear when Fulham were testing Everton to the full. The Everton goal had an escape when Aryes closed up in and shot for the far side of the goal the ball striking the post before going outside.
Off The Goal Line
Grant (Everton) had one fine chance, but failed to take it. Wainwright showed great pace when he out-pace Bacuzzi and his shot was booked for the net had not Freeman kicked the ball off the goal line. Everton were piling it on now and Wainwright came a second time, to offer a chance to his inside forwards but they could not find a way through the Fulham defence. Hinton making a final catch to end the series. The minutes were flying and Eglington was given the opportunity to distinguish himself, but he was beaten by Freeman. A corner right at the death brought back memories of a week ago, but it did bring the much needed goal to Everton. Sagar made a last-minute save. Final; Fulham 1, Everton 1.
Extra Time;
First half of extra time. Fulham opened smartly and Ayres gave Sagar a shot in the first minute, following a sound idea by the other Fulham forwards. Everton got the ball into the Fulham goal, but it was no goal because of Catterick using his elbows. Wainwright limping at outside right could not get the better of Beasley and it was Fulham who were the more aggressive. He accomplished it but Fulham cleared Wainwright had another go and his shot flew over the bar.
Wainwright Tries Hard
Wainwright made a nice run, beating two men en route and putting the ball across to Catterick, who tried to nod the ball down. Fielding was spoken to for kicking the ball away needlessly just prior to the free kick which sent Fulham into the Everton penalty area.
Half-time of Extra Time; Fulham 1, Everton 1
DODDS WANTS TO LEAVE EVERTON
February 7, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Demand for Transfer Renewed
Jock Dodds, Everton’s centre forward and former Scottish international, has renewed his application to be placed on the transfer list, which was turned down by the club less than two months ago. Dodds, who played for Everton Reserves at Bury this afternoon, is dissatisfied at not being able to regain his place in the first team. He last played in the Cup-tie at Grimsby on January 10, and although he subsequently injured a groin in training he reported fit over a week ago. “I am unhappy and unsettled at Everton and am determined to make a move,” said Dodds this morning, “I have been fit for two weeks, but have only been picked for the reserves in today’s game. Dodds, who came to Goodison Park from Shamrock Rovers in November, 1946 made a similar request for a transfer last December when although recovered from injury, he was omitted from the senior side. Everton gave their answer b reinstating him the following week.
FULHAM SEIZED INITIATIVE AND LEVELLING GOAL
February 9, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Fulham 1, Everton 1 (after extra time)
When Everton took the lead five minutes from the interval in their cup-tie with Fulham I think most Merseysiders present considered the match as good as won and well it might have been had Everton maintained their attacking plan instead of reverting to defence. This grabbling of a goal and holding it by strictly defensive effort is looked upon as good tactics. Barnsley in the old days exploited it and the Arsenal followed suit. While it produces a measure of success it does not always succeed. Everton had been good enough to take a goal from an enthusiastic Fulham; they could have taken others for they were the more polished side but they decided on stone-walling tactics. By so doing they allowed Fulham to rise from the blow. The extra time proved that the staunch Fulham defence of the first half could be well and truly beaten. Even the limping Wainwright went through at will, but with only three forwards up Taylor, Bacuzzi and Freeman were given the chance to play well.
Not Enough
A three-point striking force is not enough against the modern defensive plan and this in my opinion was why Everton did not score a clean-cut win. Fulham are entitled to praise for the way they fought back against Eglington’s goal. They played a strong type of football, with sweeping passes, quick tackling and a heartiness which enabled them to equalise. Everton were undeniably the better but they were sometimes over-indulgent with that extra pass which carried them into trouble rather than out of it. The best movement of the whole match produced the goal which had its starting point when Saunders sent the ball forward and before it was finally shot into the net by Eglington it travelled via Wainwright. Grant and Catterick to the goalmouth where Catterick made the last pass to Eglington, who had the skimpiest task to score. With the wind at their backs I expected Everton to sweep through the Fulham ranks in the second half, but they did not. True they suffered when Wainwright was injured and had to go on the wing, his pace being cut down considerably, but it was “hold on to what we have” idea that gave Fulham the incentive and the will to hit back.
Bacuzzi’s Part
Fulham might have fallen to pieces after Everton had scored, but Baccuzzi pulled them together so well they promised an equaliser by their rallying qualities. Everton’s slender lead was eventually lost at the sixty-first minute. It was a half-back who shot the goal. The brothers S and R. Thomas and Quested were the trio to do the damage, the last named having the honour of scoring. Twenty-five minutes to play. Was it to be extra time? Aryes had the mortification of seeing his grand shot strike the upright, Catterick hit the crossbar, Stevens and Everton’s Grant missed from similar positions and Hinton made a dive to prevent Cattetrick getting the winner. And so on to extra time for the third time in succession. The extra half-hour definitely belonged to Everton, but they could not break down the Fulham defence. Wainwright forgot his hurt and twice sprinted past Bacuzzi and Freeman kicked off the line. Catterick almost got the winner on time. Everton, forward, were not so good as usual because the inside men played much too far back, Fielding did not produce his Wolverhampton success. Humphreys kept a tight hold of Stevens, but I thought Bentham the best of the halves. The few times that Sagar was called upon spoke well for the staunchness of the Everton defence.
BLUES’ TEMPORARY SLIP
February 9, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Fulham Got Up From the Floor to Force A Replay
Ranger’s Notes
Everton’s League fixture are going to get in a congested state if they keep on dragging out their cup-tie to the replay stage but it will be worth it. There should never have been any need for a second attempt to diagnose of Fulham when the Toffees fighting against a sniff breeze took the lead just before the interval they had the gunpowder train all laid on to. Now Fulham’s hopes sky high. But instead of throwing everything into attack to increase their lead, they wept back on defence, a fatal error against a side which fought so strongly as the Londoners did. Up to the time Fulham equalised Everton seemed to lose all confidence in themselves. They became as uncertain as an amateur tight rope walker, backing their penalty area and calling back reinforcement until, whenever they got away, there were never more than three forwards up. Why they should have become as “windy” was puzzling, for although Fulham in the first half, had the better of matters territorially, Everton had held them reasonably comfortably, thanks to excellent defensive covering and Fulham’s poor finishing. With a goal advantage and the half-wind behind them, I anticipated Everton adding another two or three goals. Instead they came as near as a toucher to emulating Wolves and throwing the tie away. Fortunately once Fulham had squared accounts, Everton recaptured their power and fighting spirit. While they fully deserved to draw, they might have paid a stiff penalty for they mistaken stragy, for Fulham twice hit the woodwork, and both Ayres and Cyril Grant missed great chances. Everton also had their opportunities, though none as staple as their. Still why worry Everton should win the second tussle, and they have another tremendous gate in prospect. A gross £17,000 from two replays is not to be sniffed at, even if tax and the F.A. pool will reduce the net profit to about £4,000. Not bad. It was a typical Cup-tie “battle” –clean but dour, with not much class football, but another surfeit of thrills and exciting incidents. Everton’s goal came from the best bit of combination of the day, the ball being worked from the edge of the Toffees penalty area to the back of the Fulham net, without a home man touching it. Chief praise goes to the visiting defence, during the anxious period just before Fulham equalised they played as methodically and as coolly as anybody could under the circumstances. The attacked a little disorganised in the latter stages by the injury of Wainwright also acquitted himself well. Catterick’s forcefulness throw the opposition out of it’s stride, and Fielding’s clever dribbling and distribution were talking factors. If Jackie Grant found Bacuzzi one too may for him on most occasions his determination to stick to his task was a useful contribution. I would have liked to see Wainwright devoting himself more to attack than acting as arullery half back. Fulham are a speedy and tenacious lot, and it was fortunate for Everton that wretched finishing nullified their smart approach work. If they remedy that part next Saturday they will not be beaten easily. Everton will not be able to amble to victory as their own pace by a find chalk. There is still a stiff fight before them, though they should make sure this time.
Everton Trainer’s Loss
I regret to report that harry Cooke, Everton’s popular trainer had suffered a sad lost, in the death of Mrs. Cooke, which took place yesterday morning. Mrs Cooke had been in ill-health for some months, and on Saturday Harry missed being with the Everton team for the first time –apart from when he has been on duty with international or inter-league sides –in his 40 years as a trainer. The sympathy of all his numerous friends will go out to him in his sad loss.
WAINWRIGHT INJURY BLOW TO EVERTON
February 9, 1948. The Evening Express
By Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton in their hour of F.A. Cup glory, have suffered a severe blow. Eddie Wainwright is extremely doubtful for next’s Saturday’s 5th round replay at Goodison Park against Fulham. A strained Achilles tendon is feared. It is impossible the injury will disappear as quickly as it arose, but Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly says he is doubtful whether Wainwright can be fit in time. Curiously enough Wainwright showed no sign of injury during the closing stages at Craven Cottage when helping the Toffees to draw 1-1, in fact be outpaced Bacuzzi completely. Yet yesterday morning the left knee and ankle had swollen and Wainwright could not walk without assistance. Eddie himself is not too cheerful about it all. Humphreys and Catterick also received injuries in this 120-minute battle and had to receive special attention after the game but they will be all right, and Everton will take heart in the fact that while Wainwright may be missing the reserve forwards got six goals on Saturday. There are several alternatives one could suggest to get over the Wainwright absence, but I think it best to leave it to those who so ably solved Saturday’s half-back reshuffle. This was a splendid performance by the Toffees who might easily have won and just as easily lost. The ticket rush is on again for this the team’s fourth cup-tie on successive Saturdays and upsetting the Liverpool-Everton “Derby” game. Still that match always will keep nicely on ice” The luck against Everton is becoming almost monotonous for the draws have been against them and they have been hammered by injuries. It is genuine team spirit which is helping Everton to rise above adversity. The players are dealing with matters on the field in the same –all-for-Everton way which has characterised the work in the boardroom. Yes, the directors have had nasty problems, what with transfer requests and such, but tact has pulled them through just as it will in the case of Jock Dodds who persists in his transfer request just as the Third Division club i mentioned weeks ago still seeks Dodds. I think Everton will reach Round Six. There is every reason to be highly satisfied at the showing of this team, of grand fellows whose honesty of purposes I prefer to maybe the ultra-skill of other clubs still standing in the Football “Grand National.”
Just Ordinary
The concern of those supporters who had no chance to get to Craven Cottage is in the strength of Fulham. Well, honestly, Fulham are an ordinary side; keen as mustard; fast on the ball; but... lacking the collaborative and individual mastery of the finer points of football so essential to defeat a team of the Everton calibre. Fulham too easily become hurried and flurried in front of goal against stern and quick tacklers and that is why they missed two golden chances on Saturday. Yet Everton missed just as good openings because the ball rose nastily on each occasion. The best movement of the match ended in Eglington tapping the ball through from Catterick’s final cross in 42 minutes and right half. Quested –strong player this – equalised in 65 minutes but the ball went in at a tangent off Bentham’s chin. The crowd invaded the field following that goal, and Bentham drily said to met yesterday; “I thought at first it was the Everton supporters coming for me.” Five times the woodwork was struck –three times by Everton and twice by Fulham, to added to the excitement. Everton were infinitely the better football side, and if one could fault them it was in lack of striking power.
Mighty Backs
Let me say right away that this draw was erected on the sound structure of the defence against a fast-moving but hasty attack. Saunders and Dugdale were brilliant –nay, mighty-backs, never taking a risk and always using the ball with delicacy and discretion. Add to them the confidence-bearing goalkeeper of Sagar –“only deflected shots can beat Ted,” was skipper Bentham’s opinion – and the “I-Will-not-be-beaten” attitude of Humphreys. Bentham was the best half-back on the field –the epitome of the solid defender and cute user of the ball, while Farrell, coming back after serious injury, opened splendidly, with confidence –had his uncertain spell, and finished up with characteristic power. Yes, Farrell is okay, and the gold hand on his teeth comes off this week. Fielding was the fountain-head of the graceful attacking movements which so delighted in the first half while Wainwright’s finale was great. Catterick was a great trier always too good for Taylor in the air, but the same luckless Harry. When that old luck changes Catterick will get a packet of goals. Grant was the essence of worrying, non-stop raider who moved this way and that and generally to good purpose. Eglington did not have one of his best days because he never seemed to be quite sure of himself, but he had a grand back in Freeman up against him. Freeman was Fulham’s best player in a defence unhappy under pressure, but with Guested and Beasley progressive wing half backs, and Ayres by far the most dangerous forward. You will be sorry to hear that the Everton trainer, Mr. Harry Cooke –Mr. Bill Borthwick was his deputy at Fulham –lost Mrs Cooke during the week-end, and will extend sympathy to the grand servant of Everton.
EVERTON IN LUCK
February 10, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
Chance of Home Tie
By John Peel
Everton’s ill-luck this season of being drawn away in the F.A. Cup competition has turned at last, and providing they overcome Fulham in next Saturday’s fifth round replay at Goodison Park; they will entertain Blackpool in Round Six on February 28. Should Everton win the replay against Fulham they will be meeting Blackpool in the Cup tourney for the first time in their history, although they classed several times in the League war competition. If the meeting does materialise the Goodison Park side will have to evolve tactics to stop Blackpool’s “M” combination –Mathew’s, Mortenson, McIntosh and Munro –who have been mainly responsible for the seasiders’ 13-0 Cup goal tally.
EVERTON GET READY FOR GOODISON DUEL
February 10, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
The mind of Everton is on Fulham. The fact that the Toffees have a home drawn in the sixth round is comforting, but first the club’s design cup cup-living centres on Saturday’s fifth round replay with Fulham at Goodison Park, and to this end the lads were at Bellefield today for a full morning’s work. Training followed the usual lines –running, short sprints, ball kicking, and then the all-passing trial game which the players enjoy so much. A notable absentee was Eddie Wainwright whose left leg injury will almost certainly force him to miss this replay. The expected absence of Wainwright gives the club a problem to settle this evening. The most unenviable task in football us team selection. If victory follows a decision all is well, but if defeats be the outcome, well, there comes the old argument of “Why didn’t you do this or that.” No the club has the job so let us leave it to them. Everton have plenty of reserve strength so there is little over which to worry.
Stevens Danger
Fulham reply on directness and speed, it is extremely doubtful if fast-raiding Shepherd will be fit to play in fact, they assured me at craven Cottage that he may be out for two of three weeks, yet Cyril Grant made a fair job of the outside-left position on Saturday and his main trouble was that he was up against the oh so perfect Saunders. That too, was Sid Thomas’s trouble on the right wing. Thomas could make little of Dugdale and so was forced to cut inside –generally square across field –in the hope of finding an opening. And believe me Thomas looked rather menacing as he dribbled away to the middle, in much the manner of a Jimmy Caskie. Stevens is the danger man in front of goal –a tall, bustling raider with two good feet. Stevens, like Ayres and Bob Thomas, however, is prone to be too hasty in front of goal. These three can shoot strongly enough, but their trouble is they try to do their goalmouth work too quickly. Naturally there is a reason for everything and the reason for this is that Stevens and company know that in “Humphreys Incorporated” they are up against one of the fastest and most intrepid tacklers in football. Fulham know that they must act quickly. The strongest part of the Fulham side is at wing half-back were Quested –tall, strong and progressive –and Skipper Pat Beasley are so alert to speedy progression and clever in defensive covering. But, I do not think Fulham are in Everton’s class as a football team, and if they are not beaten it will be one of the shocks of the whole competition. Freeman the right-back is exceptionally good for he has a keen positional sense, tackles well and kicks strongly with both feet, Freeman is faster than Joe Bacuzzi the international left-back who starts well but lacks pace late on against a winger who ‘goes on the outside.” Hinton is the Irish International not always sure in his fielding when menaced, but sound when given plenty of latitude. No, I cannot make out Fulham with a real chance if Everton are in anything like ordinary form. At least the Everton who rallied to beat the Wolves will account for Fulham rather easily ...if Everton take no notice of this, and realise that they have a job to do. The demand for tickets for the game is tremendous, but Mr. Kelly and his staff are getting through their job well.
WAINWRIGHT HAS PECULIARITY OF AN ACHILLES HEEL
February 11, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Eddie Wainwright, Everton’s inside-right, is suffering from one of the more unusual football injuries, a strained Achilles tendon. It is a peculiarity of the injury. I understand that no pain is felt when the player is on his toes. This would account for the sparkling runs Wainwright made at Fulham after tendon damage had caused him to be transferred to the wing. Heel and toe walking, oh the other hand, they say, is painful to the afflicted. I confess to having accepted Achilles tendon trouble as yet another form in the library of sports injury. For my own benefit and for that of any readers who may have shared ignorance on the subject I consulted the Encyclopaedia Britannia to find. Tendon of Archilles, the large tendon at the back of the ankle. It is the tendon of the calf muscle which extends and invert the foot, and is inserted into the heel bone.
EVERTON DELAY CUP TEAM SELECTION
February 11, 1948. Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton will not select their team to oppose Fulham in the F.A. Cup Fifth Round replay at Goodison Park on Saturday until Friday. This may indicate that there is a hope of Wainwright being able to play, or an Everton tactical move. Everton were doing light work at Goodison Park today, and return to Bellefield tomorrow when they will have their final tuning up for the vital struggle. The Everton directors have again declined to accede to the request for transfer by Jock Dodds, their Scottish international centre forward.
WAINWRIGHT MAY PLAY ON SATURDAY
February 12, 1948 Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Eddie Wainwright, Everton’s young, inside-right, is now practically certain to be fit to play against Fulham in the F.A. Cup replay at Goodison Park on Saturday. The team will be announced tomorrow morning. Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly struck a most optimistic note when I spoke to him today. “Wainwright has made excellent progress, said Mr. Kelly” and you can say that I am more than hopeful that he will be able to play, Eddie was training this morning, and while things looked dark last week-end, I think everything will be all right” This is grand news and eases the tension which has gripped the Everton followers ever since they had news of Wainwright’s injury. It is useless speculating on the team but I don’t whether it will differ much from that which drew at Craven Cottage last Saturday –and that will be good enough for me. The fact that Wainwright can have another 48 hours treatment before the game all helps in the Everton cause. The Toffees completed the more serious part of their training at Belllefield today. Tomorrow will be devoted to pipe-openers at Goodison Park, and then relaxation until the game. Mr. Kelly says he is quite satisfied with everything in relation to the tie, and all has run smoothly this week. The usual expert arrangements will be made at Goodison to ensure the easy and comfortable packing of the ground. Fulham are still not quite certain about their outside left position. It is hoped that Shepherd will be fit enough to be able to resume, but at the moment this isn’t certain. No other change from last week’s 11 is anticipated.
EVERTON SHOULD WIN
February 13, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
But Fulham Won’t Be East Meat
For the fourth successive Saturday Everton are bent on Cup-tie business, and Goodison Park tomorrow will house another big crowd for the fifth round replay with Fulham. The demand for tickets grow with each succeeding round. Everton could have sold their share several times over. If they beat Fulham, as I think they can, the Blackpool tie tomorrow fortnight will be a bigger attraction than ever. But first Everton have to get the better of Fulham, and it won’t be easy. The Cottagers were no cravens last week. They fought back doggedly when by all the rules, Everton should have had the tie safely sewn up. The Toffees must not make the same mistakes again. A single goal lead is insufficient to allow then to rest on their carts against a side as Fulham’s workmanlike and determined characters. It would have been tragedy had Everton game out at craven Cottage, for they were obviously the better craftsmen, yet they would have had only themselves to blame had Fulham “pinched” the match. Based on what I saw at Fulham’s ground last week, the men Everton will have to watch most carefully will be Sid Thomas, Stevens, and Shepherds. Thomas is a real live wire, as full of tricks as the proverbial monkey, and Stevens, though well held most of the time, showed that he would be a dangerous man if allowed any rope. Shepherds I haven’t seen yet but if he’s only half as good as I’m led to understand he will be pretty useful. Quested’s goal was one of the sort that some only occasionally. He is not likely to find the luck running the same way again. Pat Beasley though approaching the Veteran stages is still a great ball player, while Bacuzzi until the long struggle began to take trail, says a clever and polished display. On the whole Everton have a sight pull in defence. Much will depend on the efficiency of their attack. Providing the whole line moves as a unit and the side man do not lay too far back thus surrendering the imitative, I have a feeling the outcome will be what we hopefully anticipate. Everton will not definitely decide the constitution of their team until after Wainwright has had a final test tomorrow morning. There is every hope he will be fit, but at the moment the club officially names twelve players, viz; Everton (From) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Humphreys, Farrell; Watson, Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington.
Mr. W.C. Cuff Bereaved
The sympathy of everybody will go out to Mr. W.C. Cuff, president of the Football |League, in the sad loss he has sustained by the death of Mrs. Cuff, which took place this morning at their Parkgate home, at the age of 80. Mr. And Mrs Cuff had been married for 54 years, and throughout this long period Mrs Cuff had been a pillar of strength and encouragement to her husband in carrying out his many arduous duties in a lifetime’s invaluable services to football. The funeral is at Anfield cemetery at noon on Monday.
70,000 WILL SEE TOMORROW’S CUP DUEL
February 13, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton have a great chance of being in the last eight of the F.A. Cup for the second time throughout the real competitions, when they meet Fulham in the fifth round replay at Goodison Park tomorrow, before what should be fourth 70,000 Goodison attendances of the season. This will be Everton’s fourth cup-tie on successive Saturday, and their fifth of the season, for having won at Grimsby they played two games with Wolves before scoring victory 240 minutes of thrills –and last week they drew 1-1 at Fulham after 120 minutes football. Consequently up to now, Toffees have had 450 minutes of cup-tie football, and should tomorrow’s game be undecided after 90 minutes, they will play 30 minutes extra time. If that fails to bring a decision, then off they go on Monday to Villa Park to renew the battle. My opinion is that no trip to Birmingham will be necessary, but that Everton will win convincing tomorrow and so earn the right to receive the mightily Blackpool at Goodison in the sixth round. What a prize for the winners Matthews, Mortensen, and company. Fulham’s hopes of survival have raised following the news that raiding winger Shepherds may be fit, although Shepherd said last week, and that it would be two weeks before he could play. Obviously Shepherd must have made tremendous improvement. Fulham you will find a fast-moving combination; strong to the ball and on it; quick-covering in defence, but lacking that accuracy in finishing so essential to success. Everton are undeniably the better football combination but believe me this Fulham will take a lot of beating, for they are the type of side who do not submit readily and can fight back ads powerfully as did Everton against Wolves. The warning note in this is that if Everton get in front they must go all out to force home the advantage. And the spirit of this 1948 Everton indicates that they will do just that Everton have made adequate arrangements for the packing of the ground, and it will all go smoothly if spectators will co-operate by going early; forming orderly queues; and once inside ensuring that the feeding lanes are left clear. Final decision on the Everton team will not be made until just before the game, but it will be selected from the same 12 as last week, Watson being with those who played at Craven Cottage. Wainwright continues to progress, and Secretary-Manager Theo Kelly said today that he is still quite-optimistic Wainwright is under constant treatment. From Everton’s 12 there are several encouraging alternatives which occur to mind should Wainwright not to be able to play, in fact this merry dozen gives me confidence. Everton (from) Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, Humphreys, Farrell, Watson; Grant, Wainwright, Catterick, Fielding, Eglington. Fulham; (probable); Hinton; Freeman, Bacuzzi; Quested, Taylor, Beasley (Capt); Thomas (Sid), Thomas (Bob), Stevens, Ayres, Shepherd.
EVERTON TO-DAY HAVE TWO GOOD IMMUNITY BADGES
February 14, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Leslie Edwards
Early this morning Everton Football Club will post outside Goodison Park immunity notices against raiding Liverpool University students. At 2.45 their immunity against Fulham goals. Sagar, will take up his position, and the chances are the among men upfield will be Wainwright, with an Achilles tendon less vulnerable than it was a week ago. All being well, Everton are later likely to hang out the “House full” and “No tickets for the Blackpool match yet” signs. All this will have added up to yet another cup-tie at Goodison Park, the fourth in successive weeks, and, more important, one which may well take Everton to a position for a semi-final take-off. If Fulham win that fourth round replay it will need to be placed on record that no one even mentioned the possibility of their doing so before the kick-off. Not even armchair critics. This well-known category will be multiplied a thousandfold and more by television. The first of the number has made himself known to Everton in a letter in which he explain that having witnessed by television their match against Fulham last week, he is convinced he can tell them where they went wrong. He closes an interesting letter to Mr. Theo Kelly by suggesting that television spectators can never hope to capture the thrill of being present because of the artificially of the medium.
CLUB FAVOURS ADDED TO PANTO DAY COLOUR
February 14, 1948. The Evening Express
Fulham’s Fans Here At 5 a.m. For Cup Replay
Everton Supporters Met Their Challenge
Lime-Street Station, Liverpool, was a study in “black and white” when the enthusiastic vanguard of Fulham supporters arrived at 5 a.m, for today’s F.A. Cup match with Everton. Fulham’s colours are white shirts and black shorts, and their supporters were not slow to use the combination in a variety of attractive ways. The girls wore white blouses and black skirts while the men sported huge rosettes and decorated garments. Also on the scene were the Liverpool “Panto Day” students, and as the two contingents mingled at the Station there was much good-humoured banter. Inevitably both teams were claimed as being “cert” to meet Blackpool in the next round. Everton fans took up the challenge, and though in a minority in the early part of the day, their blue and white favours became more in evidence and outnumbered their rivals by mid-day. Neither Everton nor Fulham made final choice of their teams until near the kick-off. Train was not the only means Fulham fans used to reach Liverpool. Dozens of coaches which set off shortly after midnight and began to arrive as the morning advanced while three specially chartered ‘planes landed 35 enthusiasts at Speke. Many went for cross-rivers trips on the Ferry boats, and found an added attraction in the new liner Newfoundland, leaving Liverpool on her maiden voyage. Those –Fulham supporters without tickets took no chance about getting into the ground. Immediately on arrival they made straight for Goodison Park and took up a stand at the turnstiles. Packets of food and thermos flasks came out and ‘alfresco’ meals were soon the order of the day.
Everton Favours
Everton’s supporters were not slow to take up the Fulham challenge, and although they were understandably in the minority early on their blue and white favours became much in evidence, and in some cases clashed with the black and white of the visitors from a distance so that “foes” were welcoming each other as “friends.” With cup-tie fervour gripping the city, prophets were soon discussing the possibilities of a new ground record being set up three times within a month. The actual ground record is 74,721 at the Manchester United v. Liverpool cup-tie on January 24. Hopes that this would go the following week when Everton defeated Wolves in the 4th round replay were not realised but on that occasion a new club record of 72,569 set up. Colours was lent to the possibility by the fact that when Everton met Wolves on January 31, Liverpool were at Anfield against Portsmouth and attracted 23,000 spectators. The inevitable rosette sellers took up early, stations on side the ground. A brilliant splash of colour was an ardent Everton supporter’s turn-out of a blue and white “topper” umbrella, and suit. Schoolboys were among the early Evertonians to arrive. There was all the odd pre-war cup atmosphere at Goodison Park prior to the match. The crowd was estimated at the kick-off to be close on 70,000. Although the blue and white favours of Everton naturally predominated, there were plenty of support for Fulham. There was an uproarious greeting for Tommie “You lucky People” Trinder, the famous comedian, who is a director of the Fulham Club.
FULHAM SPEED SHAKES BLUES
February 14, 1948. The Evening Express
Thomas Wing Proves A Menace
Fulham Score At 75 Minute
Blues attack was Never Moving Effectively
By Pilot (Don Kendall)
Eddie Wainwright was unable to play for Everton in the F.A. Cup Fifth round replay with Fulham at Goodison Park today, for the right to receive Blackpool in the Sixth Round. This caused Everton to make another reshuffle just as they have had to before each of the four cup-ties they have played so far. The skipper, Stan Bentham, moved back to his old championship position of inside right. Peter Farrell crossed to right half, and Gordon Watson resumed at left half. Sec-Manager Theo Kelly cleared up for me the mystery of Wainwright’s injury and far from it being any strain it was a rheumatic condition of the leg which is causing the trouble. As I announced two days ago Shepherd was unable to resume for Fulham and they brought in Bewley as partner to Ayres. Bewley did not play in the game at Craven Cottage last Saturday which was drawn 1-1 after extra time. The Everton No 1 trainer, Mr. Harry Cooke was back on duty today having missed last Saturday’s game. The ground looked in excellent condition for this Everton’s fourth successive cup-tie without a break. There were rumours that Gordon Dugdale was suffering from an abcess but the fact is that he merely had a tooth out last Monday. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Farrell, Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Bentham (captain), Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Fulham; Hinton, goal; Freeman, and Bacuzzi, backs; Quested, Taylor, and Beasley (captain), half-backs; Thomas (Sid), Thomas (Bob), Stevens, Ayres and Bewley, forwards. Referee; Mr. R.J. Leale (Nottingham). Catterick’s attempted burst through was held up by Taylor, and then Bob Thomas cane across to inside left to shoot by the post with his left foot. Fulham played some nice football, and it took the best of Dugdale to hold up the Thomas wing. Stevens beat Humphreys to a swirling ball, and this enabled Ayres to come through with a shot which Sagar had well covered. The Thomas brothers outwitted Watson and looked dangerous, but Watson managed to recover and clear a trouble-some situation.
Everton Tied Up
Sid Thomas tied Everton up into knots, and there were groans from the spectators as the Everton clearance attempts went direct to Fulham players. Everton signed with relief when Bob Thomas ran off-side, for this had become the best and most menacing raid of the day, the speed of Fulham certainly shaking Everton. Fulham had a narrow escape when Bentham got Grant away and Grant’s shot centre was dropped by Hinton. Catterick while falling tried to steer the ball into the vacant net but Hinton dived back to make amends. Eglington flew past Freeman but Taylor dashed across to clear at the last second. When Bentham came back to hold up Fulham’s left wing Ayres fouled him and Bentham sportingly shook hands with Ayres before the free kick was taken. This had not been a bright Everton opening; in fact they seemed to be littery and inaccurate with their passing. At last Everton began varying their attacking methods more after having been slaves to the long ball up the middle. Fielding engineered the change, but a flying header by Catterick was off the mark. When Farrell went through Bentham raced to the open spot but although the ball went there Bentham seemed so surprised that he fell over. Farrell next whipped the ball up the middle for Catterick, who however, delayed his shot and was covered by Taylor when a quick effort might have brought dividends.
Blues Settle Down
However, Everton were gradually settling down, having well withstood Fulham’s bright and enthusiastic opening. Bentham got a boot in his thigh but was able to continue, the only requirement being a new pair of shorts. You have to hand it to Sagar. But for Ted, Fulham would have been a goal ahead in 25 minutes for Bob Thomas headed in magnificently towards the top far corner, Sagar flinging himself across to make a glorious one-hand save. Sagar was there to clear the corner and then Eglington ran right into the Fulham penalty area and crossed the ball to Grant whose quick shot was parried by Hinton. Catterick and Eglington both tried to ram the ball home but could find no loop-hole. Fulham had a wonderful escape when Eglington centred, Grant stabbed the ball back and Catterick’s quick shot was blocked on the goalline by Bacuzzi. Before Bentham could finish off the attack Hinton found the ball dropping nicely into his hands as he doubled back. Yes, Everton had got over their sticky period and were beginning to hammer the opposition in something like their real style. Hinton fisted away a grand centre by Eglington before he pulled down a speculative shot from Fielding. Taylor and Quested came in collision when trying to hold up the flying Eglington and both received cuts to the head but were able to carry on. Humphreys was too confident after robbing Rewley, and found himself dispossessed on Stevens racing through. But Humphreys recovered so well that he was back in time to clear the danger. Everton were still trying to find an opening for Catterick, who, however found himself firmly held by the brilliantly Taylor who seemed to have made up his mind never to give Catterick’s a kick at the ball. Just on the interval, Catterick got away, but Taylor was there to save him nay.
Half-time; Everton 0, Fulham 0.
There was no doubt that the game had fallen below expectations, and Everton had yet to show their natural rhythm.
Lone-Hand Catterick
The fact that Catterick was so often left to play a lone hand militated against effectiveness in the goalmouth. The Everton defence had been good against a fast-raiding, enterprising side which, however, up to now had lacked accuracy in front of goal. Saunders long free kick and Grant’s quick centre placed the Fulham goal in jeopardy on resuming, but no shot was forthcoming, and then Ayres, nicely placed, shot outside. Taylor was bleeding from the top of the head, but he carried a wet sponge in his hand for “running repairs.” Stevens and Ayres had good shots charged down before Catterick was sandwiched –not for the first time – but the free kick again produced no shot, the ball being booted clear. Everton were still playing five half backs and three forwards. This might have been all right so far as saving the game was concerned, but it was not laying the foundations for victory. Farrell tried to become a forward as he made the opening for one of Everton’s rare shots –an 18-yarder from Bentham which Hinton easily saved. Beasley came across to clear from the inrunning Eglington at the expense of a corner from which Catterick made a brilliant effort, his header flashing over with Hinton beaten. Eglington again spilt open the Fulham defence to give Catterick a good chance but Catterick had his back to the ball and could not turn in time. Away went Bob Thomas to centre from the goal line, Farrell intervening before Stevens could accept a good opening. From Sid Thomas’s corner –Bewley shot well; Bentham just managing to turn the ball over. Fielding raced away to outside right and his long dropping, half-centre-half shot caught Hinton in two minds and all he could do was to turn the ball on to the bar and over. From the Corner brought anxious moments for Fulham, but Catterick and Bentham efforts were blocked before another Eglington centre had Fulham haphazard but still quick enough to repel the danger. Catterick was fouled on the edge of the penalty area, and Fielding lobbed the ball over for Eglington to dart in with a header which Hinton saved brilliantly at full length. Everton were operating with greater enthusiasm and Bentham and Grant carved out a grand opening for Catterick whose full volley went over the top, bringing groans from the spectators.
Fulham in Front
The spectators were irate when Sagar was fouled by Bewley and forced to drop the ball. The referee was there to see that justice was done; Fulham took the lead through Bob Thomas in 73 minutes, Everton strongly disputing the goal on the grounds of a foul. Stevens went through and got the better of Humphreys, whom Everton claimed had been fouled. The ball ran clear to Thomas, who raced through to score from 12 yards with grand right foot shot which never gave Sagar a chance. Personally I saw little wrong with the Stevens-Humphreys duel, but it was just one of those things in which the break went Stevens way. Eglington almost got through after good work by Catterick, but Freeman recovered magnificently. Everton brought Bentham’s to centre forward, and Catterick to outside-left but the attack was still misfiring on more than one cylinder. Saunders handled the ball on the edge of the penalty area; but Ayres free kick was fisted away by Sagar. In 79 minutes Watson in tackling Sid Thomas fell down and his hand quite accidentally touched the ball. The referee immediately awarded a penalty, which was a harsh decision, for Watson could not simply help touching the ball. Still again justice was done for Freeman took the kick and placed four yards wide. Eglington seemed to be Everton’s best bet for saving the game, and now he centred into the hands of Hinton before lobbing across another centre which Catterick headed over. Fulham had eight men in defence as Everton tried to pull the game out of the fire and their packing was excellent. Thomas went through on his own but shot straight at Sagar, who saved as Fulham stayed the pace better. The attendance did not produce a record being, 71,587 with receipts £8,400. Final; Everton 0, Fulham 1.
• English Electric 1, Everton “A” 3
FULHAM MISS PENALTY BUT STILL WIN
February 14, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Everton Say Good-Bye to The Cup
Thomas Hit A “Smasher”
Chances Missed
Triumph For Visitors’ Defence
Everton nil, Fulham 1.
By Stork.
Fulham accomplished the unexpected. They boarded the Lion in his don and tamed him. They were the more dangerous side, for Everton did not look anything like their true form. One had to pay great tribute to the Fulham defence and Taylor in particular. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Farrell, Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Bentham (captain), Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Fulham; Hinton, goal; Freeman, and Bacuzzi, backs; Quested, Taylor, and Beasley (captain), half-backs; Thomas (Sid), Thomas (Bob), Stevens, Ayres and Bewley, forwards. Referee; Mr. R.J. Leale (Nottingham). My estimate of the crowd at the start was 65,000 and one of the Fulham supporters cracked a joke to me as I came into the ground when he asked me “How do I get to Blackpool.”
Promising Start
There was plenty of enthusiasm and early casualties, while the noise of rattles and trumpets must have created difficulties for me copy-taker. Fulham again won the toss, and Catterick straight from the kick-off almost broke through the Fulham ranks but he was held up by Bacuzzi and Sagar had twice to handle trifling matters within the next minutes. Bewley and Ayres got together and when the former allowed the ball to pass by him it opened a way for Ayres, whose shot, however, bore no sting, and was therefore no trouble to the Everton goal. Fulham were the more dangerous ride for ten minutes, without, however niggesting that they would damage the Everton goal. When R Thomas was given a chance he failed to get in a full blooded drive so that Sagar had an easy task in saving. The Craven Cottage were enjoying plenty of vocal encouragement and they replied to it with a will. Their flight wing was distinctly menacing S Thomas by clever control and much wizardry of footwork, got the better of Dugdale and the action ended with Bewley shooting the ball striking Saunders. It came into play, and when Stevens shot the ball hit the upright, but the whistle had previously sounded for an infringement.
A Narrow Squeak
After being penned in their own quarters for some minutes Everton at last broke through and Grant centred a tame-looking ball but goalkeeper Hinton made it look difficult. He actually lost possession and Catterick pounced on the opportunity like lightning, but his side slip failed to run into the net. It was, however, a very narrow squeak for Fulham. Fulham were not perturbed or upset by their escape. Quite the reverse for they immediately went back into attack producing good moves but with one great finally about them when they got near goal. Nor for that matter were the Everton forwards very lively at this stage. Keen eye was being kept on Catterick and Taylor and Eglington made two fast runs only to lose possession just as he was about to make his centre.
Chance For Bentham
Farrell made one long run and dribble ending with a through the middle pass to Bentham but before the player had got control of the ball he had been challenged and beaten. There was still a longing for a goal, but so far ones appeared a long way off. Hardly had I said this when one looked to be on the Everton horizon, for Catterick was given a pass which had the goal tag on it. The Everton centre forward tried to work the ball to his liking, but while he was doing it a Fulham defender decided to have a go. Result Catterick was dispossessed just as he was on the point of shooting.
Sensational Save
Everton hit back and Grant and Catterick between them slipped through a loophole in the Fulham defence but the Everton centre forward screwed the ball wide of its mark. Then came the first big thrill of the game thus far, and Sagar who has performed many prodigious things this season, pulled another out of his bag when he made a sensational save from Bob Thomas. The ball appeared to be beating the Everton goalkeeper, but with a swift movement he got his hand to it and turned it out of his net. Eglington made a strong run and centre, the ball flashing right across the Fulham goalmouth to Grant whose header was punched out by Hinton. Almost immediately afterwards the Fulham goal had another fortunate escape, after several Everton forwards had tried to convert, the ball finally going to Bentham, whose header seemed destined for the back of the net. Hinton was out of position, but Bacuzzi had dropped back into goal and Everton were robbed of a lead. Bacuzzi headed the ball out and Hinton was lucky to be in the right place to catch the ball as it came from Bacuzzi’s head. Hinton was anything but convincing. Under extreme pressure I don’t know how he would act.
Another Escape
There was a nerve-racking few seconds for the Everton followers when Humphreys had the ball taken from his toes with Sagar running out, but the Goodison defence was allowed to foregather by some dalliance on the part of the Fulham forwards, and what looked a dangerous situation became a more nothing. Farrell and Bentham got the Fulham defence on the wrong foot and a sweeping pass out to Eglington that possibilities, but like so many good movements today it petered out. Bewley wasted a lot of balls by his uncertain kicking. Fulham had done a good job of work thus far, and if Everton were to win this tie they would have to pull up their sockets.
Half-time; Everton 0, Fulham 0
Fulham were soon into their stride and Dugdale had to put in some strong work to prevent the Fulham right wing from breaking through. The young full-back was momentarily knocked out in a tackle with Quested, and then Stevens was injured as he was trying to brush his way through.
Sagar in Action Again
Everton raided but Hinton suffered no heart throbs, yet when the Londoners went off again Sagar had to make a catch from S. Thomas whose feinting and intricate foot play took him beyond Dugdale to deliver his centre. The gavel camps were calling for a goal. There seemed little prospect of the coming at the moment, but one cannot tell in the football game. Bob Thomas might have taken one when he hooked the ball outside the far post, and it was fortunate Everton that there was no Shepherd present on the Fulham left wing.
Catterick’s Leap
Bentham tried a long one, which Hinton caught more confidently, but there was really no great power behind it in any case. On the slightest sign if an Everton advance Fulham brought back every available man, so that there were only two forwards up on occasions. Catterick made a high leap to contact a corner kick taken by Eglington and he defeated all rivals only to suffer disappointment by seeing the ball pass over the crossbar. Full back Freeman who had a habit of following an when his side attracted centred high just outside the angle of the far post.
Not Impressive
Although Everton had perhaps the more of the attack one could not say hay were impressive. They never suggested that they would bring about the downfall of the Fulham goal. If anything Fulham were more dangerous and Bewley sticking his foot out to a ball which came from his right wing saw the ball soar over the Everton crossbar. Sid Thomas was a complete box, of tricks. By the cutest of movements he had his man running the other way, and had his namesakes Bob Thomas been wide awake to what Sid was about to do trouble would have been in more for Sagar and Co.
Fulham Lead
Fulham were a persistent lot, and for some minutes they had given the Everton defence a deal of trouble. At 73 minutes they got their reward in a goal by Bob Thomas. He let go a terrific drive which went into the net like a bullet but he had to thank Stevens for a lovely through, the middle, pass which put him clear of the opposition. The Fulham supporters naturally went mad with joy. Everton were definitely up against it. For one had to admit this Fulham defence was as good as anything Everton had run up against this season.
Penalty Missed!
There prospects of pulling this game out of the fire were considerably reduced when Fulham were awarded a penalty when Watson handled the ball as he was on the ground inside the penalty box. It seemed to me a very harsh decision, but it was instantaneous and when Freeman, who is reputed to be one of the hardest kickers of a dead ball in the game came up to take it, he hit the ball hard enough but without any sense of direction for it flew outside. Everton were now but in one attack they had the Fulham defence hard pressed but the ball was not in the net.
Desperate Effort
Everton were now biting back with everything they had. The minutes were speeding by, and while the Fulham defence was often on the collar Everton could not land the ball where they wanted it –in the back of the net. With three minutes to go Bob Thomas following one of the bets moves in the game should have put the issue beyond all doubt. He started it, was given the opportunity by Stevens and had only Sagar in front of him, and a goal seemed assured but he shot straight into Sagar’s hands.
All Over Bar shouting
Fulham were attacking strongly and Everton would have to do a sensational last-minute act to save the day. It hardly seemed likely. The referee was looking at the watch and so were every others and when he whistled the end there was a tremendous cheer from the Fulham people. Fulham undoubtedly earned the plaudits they received for Everton, so we bid good-bye to the Cup for another year. Final; Everton 0, Fulham 1. Attendance 71, 587.
EVERTON ATTACK WAS THREE-POINTED
February 16, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Ernest Edwards (“Bee”)
Everton 0, Fulham 1 (R. Thomas); 71,587, £8,000
The majestic physical stance of Fulham made Everton’s lack of inches frightening. Their football efficiently made the home side touch lowest standards. Wainwright’s absence was a heavy blow. The appearance of Bentham as a forward after years of service as a half-back tended to increase the trend in which Fielding lies at semi-half-back. At one time I noted Bentham helping his defence, at another time of danger, Eglington raced back to help the defence at the corner flag. Thus, Everton inside forwards were reported “missing” for long spells. Eglington alone was the menace. His speed shattered Freeman’s and he crossed the ball towards a flattering Hinton in goal. How then did Everton fail to score? Elementary, Catterick was a lone wolf, in trying to contact the centre of the big kick he was faced by four men. He headed near on one occasion and tired of trying to beat Taylor he took a first-time hooking shot –quite useful, if too lofted.
First Division Look
Fulham could carry on a traditionally First Division style of play and ignore Everton’s vague attacks. It was a crushing blow to the home folk that Everton should lose, and even more distasteful that they should lose in the way they did. They had no sparkle, no pattern, no threat, no semblance of comparison with a side which did many bright things and could be faulted only in their goalkeeping post, and by their own rather timid finishing-touches. The Fulham attack was well-moulded Thomas could never throw off the long legged Dugdale, whose persistence deserved reward Fulham were bigger better and brighter, and Everton looked minnows when they stretched their legs and necks to try to head a ball. Bacuzzi gave a sterling display of clean footwork and brilliant anticipation, and Freeman was not far removed from this standard. Saunders of Everton, was one of the few worth honourable mention together with Sagar, for an early, electrifying hand-out of a high ball Farrell, too, must be commended for his thrusting runs to set Everton slight by a through-pass. It was such a pass by that able centre Stevens that gave R. Thomas his well-taken goal. People may argue about a foul earlier on if they do I beg them recall a clear-cut place when a free kick was awarded against Saunders on the instigation of a linesman, a full yard inside the penalty area. And no spot kick followed.
Penalty Trouble
The one spot of penalty trouble came when Watson, falling and stumbling, naturally enough stretched out his hands to ease his fall and touched the ball. The referee’s emphasise view of this is his concern, for my part I know Watson did not (according to the rule of the game) deliberately handle the ball. Freeman shot the spot-kick far away from Sagar, who had another let-off when an easy chance was made into an “over to you” effort by Fulham’s attack. So Everton were fortunate to escape with a goal deficit and a share of £8,000. Nothing compelled admiration quite-like the work of Taylor, ex-Navy, at centre-half. He and Quested cracked their heads together, and Taylor spent the second half gripping a sponge his head bleeding prudishly all through. Yet he headed the ball well, dominated Catterick and became the hero of the hour. There has been nothing to equal this since Jack Hill (centre-half for England at Hampton Park) battled at outside right for an hour with blood pouring down his check. Given Fulham the palm for appearing so bright, one must arrest criticism except to ask that our clubs take example of this type of football. It was engaging and clean. Fulham proceed by the next Peart manner, making use of the ball and taking wise position. They can take this credit –I have never seen Everton so harassed. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Farrell, Humphreys and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Bentham (captain), Catterick, Fielding and Eglington, forwards. Fulham; Hinton, goal; Freeman, and Bacuzzi, backs; Quested, Taylor, and Beasley (captain), half-backs; Thomas (Sid), Thomas (Bob), Stevens, Ayres and Bewley, forwards. Referee; Mr. R.J. Leale (Nottingham).
EVERTON’S WRONG TACTICS
February 16, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Blues Paid Penalty of Too Much Concentration on Defence
Ranger’s Notes
It’s no good crying over spill milk. Everton are “out” and nothing can alter it, but I look back rather ruefully to this column last week, which emphasised what might be Everton’s weaknesses based on the first game at Fulham. I warned them of the need for the shots of the attack to move towards together; of the winger of the inside men laying too far back, and surrending the initiative of the attack and ever-concentatating on defence can never at the best do more than prevent the other fellow winning and not of him to win the game. I gain no pleasure from the fact that events proved me right. It would have been nicer to be wrong and now be looking forward to Blackpool’s visit on Saturday week. Everton concentrated far too much on defence, particularly in the first half. Time and again Bentham was nothing but an half back, lying too deep in his own half. With Fielding filling an almost identical rose, Everton threw remaining forwards were outnumbered. Not until nearly half-way through the second half did we see the Blues adopt the right tactics, and then only spasmodically. But by that three Fulham had found a belief in themselves and had bodded down so solitary in defence that it was impossible to get them in the jittery state which might have eventuated had Everton hammering away right from the start. Everton had other faults. One was their tendency to balloon the ball too often another the frequency with which passes meant for a man in blue reached someone in white. Even Watson and Fielding Normally so adept at “killing” the ball and standing in unerringly so that right spot, were not up to usual standard. Indeed, a strange entering Goodison and not knowing either side could have been forgiven for assuming Fulham were the First Division team, and Everton the one of lower statues. Fulham were faster on the ball more cohesive and better out in attack and sounder in defence apart from goal where Hinton must have made the hearts of Fulham’s followers go pit-a-pat more times than they relished.
Opportunist Goal
Rarely did the Blues look like breaking down the grand defence of Taylor and company. True, Freeman was often beaten for pace by Eglington, but either recovered or was covered so well that the danger was averted. Bacuzzi experiences was again too much for Grant and although Catterick worked hard he could not break put of the iron which Taylor had on him. Taylor was the hero of the afternoon. Despite the blood streaming from his head injury, he gave as galliant display as I have seen, and was the pivot around which the Fulham defence received with such coolness and stability. The only goal, a Bob Thomas effort from a peach of a through pass by Stevens was a grand sample of opportunism. It would have been a travesty of justice had Fulham scored from their penalty, for Watson’s handling was far more accidental than deliberate and certainly did not alter the run of the ball or run any Fulham man of a scoring chance. Those with a Bullens Road view tell me that before Thomas scored, the pass from Stevens struck his hand. I didn’t see it. The referee was right on the spot, on presentably it was a case of “ball to hand.” Everton lost because they had little method, were afraid to take the risks which simply have to be “take in a knock-out match, and had no compelling personally to reorganise their tactics when it was clear that the original layout was not paying dividends. They were well beaten by a much better side, and one which was always counting to play good football as against Everton’s kick-and-run and anywhere-for-safely tactics. Liverpoolians can at least put up the said that the Reds they were beaten by the one of the finest side in the country, who would make most teams look poor. In saying that Evertonians haven’t that consolation I don’t want to run Fulham of the slightness bit of credit, but it is a fact that Everton were made to look just as poor as Manchester United made Liverpool. It was a languntable display, with hardly a redeeming feature. All we can do now after swallowing our disappointment is to wish Fulham the best of luck. Blackpool will not have it all their own way at Craven Cottage in round six. This Fulham side is a strong workmanlike and resourceful eleven, lacking only finishing ability in front of goal and strength on the left wing. Shepherd’s return, expected in time for the Blackpool game should solve that problem.
CUP-WEARINESS ENDED EVERTON HOPES
February 16, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log
Cup wariness more than lack of ability ended Merseyside’s direct interest in the F.A. Cup competition. The strain of almost non-stop cup football told its tale on Everton, leaving Fulham to go on to try and stop Stanley Matthews and company. Fulham deserve the chance anyway. Hectic cup-ties with the Wolves and at Fulham did, I am convinced, pave the way for the surprise downfall to a team not outstanding by any means “On level terms I am confident Everton always would beat Fulham, but the Toffees had too much cup worry in too short a period. Just think of having to play 450 minutes of cup football without a break. Just as these tense minutes overtaxed Everton bodily they had a psychological effect on the players and believe me, on Saturday, it was plain for all to see. How else could one reconcile the mistaken “left’s-keep-the-other-follows-out” attitude of a side which is famed for its natural attacking and constructive complex? It was just as if Everton feared defeat and this so unbalanced them that they wanderer in the wilderness as uncertain units lacking collective ideas and devoid of tactics. I am not offering this as an excuse for Everton’s defeat, but rather as a concrete definite reason. And in commiserating with the Toffees in their defeat, I do say to each and everyone of them, “Bravo, on a good run, and thanks a million.” It was grand while it lasted.
Why, On, Why?
This is no time for recrimation and arguments such as “If Everton had done this...” “If Everton had done that....” but there are two points puzzling me. The first is why Everton in their last four cup-ties have weakened attack by adding power to the middle line. The second is why more forward switches were not made in the second-half against Fulham. On the first point revolves one of the reasons for defeat for Everton had only three forwards for nine-tenths of the game. And that is no barbinger of victory. Bentham simply could not forget that he has become a half-back and often was lying behind Saunders, while Fielding fell to the temptation of dropping back too far –a Fielding who looked tired to me. The result was that Catterick was left on his own –and how gallantly did he try to pull out the “one-man-miracle” against a great defence –with rarely the chance of use the short ball. Catterick was forced to be an earnest individualists. Neither a Dean, a Lawton nor a Dodds would have been a success under such circumstances. So with Eglington and Grant. Whenever they got away –Eglington always was getting away –the centres went to groups of Fulham defenders to there were only two Everton players up. The same lack of weight in attack was evident in both games with the Wolves and at Fulham. Everton now know that whereas attack always is the best defence, that defence is never the best attack. Injuries have contributed to Everton’s dismissal and certainty Wainwright was sadly missed. What a great pity too that Stevenson should break down a week before he was needed. For every cup-tie this season Everton have had to make last-minute swept so all along they have been up against it. Maybe we shall get to know the reason for Everton having a tactical plan utterly foreign to them, but I hope they will revise it for the league games ahead. If one idea has failed then let us have another. Some people after the game argued that Dodds should have been played. I made Catterick’s one of Everton’s best fighters with Saunders, -as faultless as was Jim Taylor. Fulham’s heroic centre-half –Dugdale (except for kicking) Sagar –mighty man of the cup run –Eglington and Farrell also good. The remainder did not have a happy day against a fast-moving side whose wing half-backs, Quested and Beasley, were so quick to cash in on the free ground left them by Everton tactics and who always were moving to the ball. Bob Thomas got the deciding goal at the 73rd minute after a spot of fouling on Farrell and Humphreys and the through ball by Stevens who has been under Everton review. Justice was done when Freeman missed his penalty. Fulham had some narrow escapes, but so does every side when things are running their way. This was not a great game, and at times was rather boring. Everton have had a grand cup year so we should feel satisfied. No fewer than 245,656 people have paid £26, 429 to see them.
TOFFEES’ DOUBT
February 20, 1948. Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton will not make a decision regarding the constitution of their attack against the Wolves at Molyneux until just before the game. Eddie Wainwright, who is making slow if steady progress towards fitness following his attack of rhenmation, is in the team of a dozen players, and if Eddie Wainwright cannot play then Cyril Lello and Fielding will be the inside forwards. Jock Dodds having had his third, transfer request negatived returns to lead the attack –his first game since the cup-tie at Grimsby –and Tommy Jones, Welsh international centre-half, is back for the first time since he so severely injured his ankle after six minutes in the game at Blackpool. Having drawn at Moineux in the cup and won the replay, I fancy this Everton can at least force a draw tomorrow –if they will realise that attack is the best defence. Everton (from); Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, T.G. Jones, Farrell; Grant, Wainwright, Dodds, Fielding, Eglington, Lello,. Wolves; Elliott, Kelly, McLean; Crook, Shorthouse, Wright; Hancocks, Dunn, Westcott, Stevenson, Myward.
ATTACK PAYS BEST
February 20, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton away to Wolves also have a stiff job in front of them, and will need to play much better than they did against Fulham to pull off even a draw. One would have through that the brilliance of Ted Sagar and his backs would have led Everton more into an attacking vein. With no fears about the rearguard, they can afford to throw more weight into attack. Instead they have easterly developed as Arsenal defending complex –unfortunately without the Highbury facility for snatching the winning goals. They have certainly on occasion, drawn plenty of fighting sprit but it has been mainly defensive, not aggressive. It is no good keeping the other fellows out if you don’t score yourselves. That way a draw is the best you can hope for, and if the other side pops one in, as Fulham did you’ve “had it.” This will be Everton’s fourth meeting with Wolves this season. Two have been drawn and one –the replayed cup-tie at Goodison resulted in victory for the Blues. The law of averages and ground advantage seen to point to a Wolverhampton win this time, but chances in the Everton team may work the oracle. As Wainwright is not yet thoroughly fit Fielding crosses over to inside right, and Lello makes his senior debut at inside left. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Bentham, T.G. Jones, Farrell; Grant, Dodds, Fielding, Eglington, Lello,. Wolves; Elliott, Kelly, McLean; Crook, Shorthouse, Wright; Hancocks, Dunn, Westcott, Stevenson, Myward.
EVERTON OUTSHINE THE WOLVES
February 21, 1948. The Evening Express
Dodds Gets Hat-Trick, Eglington Scorers the Others.
Pilot’s Points
Everton gave one of their greatest displays of the season when, at Wolverhampton today, they made the Wanderers appear an ordinary side by the sheer precision of their passing and complete link-up between men and department. Twice Everton took the lead inside 12 minutes –through Eglington and Dodds –and twice Dodds hit the post as Everton played football which, with any luck, would have produced half a dozen goals. The whole attack moved with rhythm and purpose and Lello –making his debut –was an immense success. This boy is a find. Everton got their just reward when Dodds scored twice in the last seven minutes to crown a grand return to the first team. This was a mighty all-round display by the Toffees. Tommy Jones, the Everton, international centre-half, who, with Jock Dodds, returned to the team was under review by Mr. Herbert Powell, secretary of the Football Association of Wales, for a further Cap against Ireland at Wrexham on March 13. Everton had a debutant in Cyril Lello, and for the fifth match in succession were forced to make a late change because Stan Bentham had not recovered from a groin injury. Consequently Lindley came in at right-half for the first time since September, and Fielding moved to inside-right to accommodate Lello at inside-left. Peter Farrell, the Irish international, was captain of the team for the first time, apart from one friendly with shamrock Rovers. The game was played under Arctic conditions, the ground being covered with about two inches of snow. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Elliott, goal; Kelly and McLean, backs; Crook, Shorthouse and Wright (captain), half-backs; Hancock, Dunn, Westcott, Stevenson and Maynard, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Lindley, T.G. Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Grant, Fielding, Dodds, Lello, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. W.B. Nixon (Manchester). Wright’s long throw-in enabled Mynard to go through, but Sagar went down and pushed his centre away for a corner, which was disposed of well before Crook came through, to give Hancock’s a clear-out opening, but the winger banged the ball over with his left-foot.
Brilliant Shot
The Wolves were rampant and when Sagar’s goal-kick hung in the snow-Hancock’s shot brilliantly with his left foot, but Sagar saved. Then away went Everton to take the lead in three minutes through Eglington. A precise through-ball by Dodds, after withstanding a double, challenge, saw Grant race ahead unchallenged. Grant moved to the line and did not centre until he noted that Eglington was running in from the left. Grant’s centre was perfect and Eglington, running across the goal, nodded it downwards and into the net –a delightful move, accurately concluded. Everton were almost two up a minute later, when Lello pushed the ball forward for Eglington to outpace Kelly and flash the ball along the ground to the in running Dodds, who surprised Shorthouse and slipped the ball in against the foot of the post and behind. In seven minutes the Wolves were all square with a goal following a raid. Hancocks started the damage with beautiful footwork in the corner and a centre which bobbed about awkwardly in the goalmouth before Westcott hit the foot of the post with Everton hesitating rather strangely, Dunn ran in and slipped the ball into the net. Elliott pulled down another menacing centre from Eglington before Sagar fisted away a long swerving centre from Mclean. This was high-powered and delightful football. Everton were playing with supreme confidence, style and conviction, and in 12 minutes they regained the lead through Dodds. Lello, who was fitting into the Everton scheme like a piece in a jig-saw puzzle, slipped the ball through to Eglington, who once again rounded Kelly before slipping the ball back to Fielding. fielding shot from eight yards, but Elliott beat the ball out, only to find Dodds right there to hook the ball into the top of the net with his right foot. Everton continued on top, and only ill luck prevented them from piling up a winning lead.
Struck the Post
Eglington, beautifully served by Lello, was leaving Kelly standing time after time, and it was only with great difficulty that three centres were disposed of. Then Lello slipped the ball through to Dodds whose shot from 20 yards struck the foot of the post and bounced back straight into the hands of Elliott, lying on the ground. Everton should have had a penalty when Eglington’s shot was caught by Wright, using both hands, and after these two strokes of ill-luck Wolves went away in 28 minutes to level the scores again. Everton stopped appealing for off-side when Westcott ran through and so Sagar had little chance in coming out to oppose the flying Wallasey boy, who steered it into the far corner. Everton induced the referee to consult a linesman on the ground of offside, but the goal still stood. Everton almost regained the lead when a five-point attack was the ball hold a little in the snow and so take the accuracy off Fielding’s effort after some great football by Dodds and Grant. Next Lello let one go from 25 yards Elliott having difficulty in disposing of it high up. This was one of the most entertaining displays I have seem for a long times, and with Everton definitely the masters.
Flying Saves
Hancocks brought danger to bear on the Everton goal with some choice centres, but Sagar was alive to the position, making two flying saves before he went out to pull down Mynard’s corner kick. Everton’s passing was perfection. Jones saved a certainty when his heights enabled him to edge another Hancocks centre away from Westcott and Dunn. Dodds beat three men in the space of four yards, but from his pass Eglington placed over. Fielding and Eglington combined magnificently. Elliott just saving Fielding’s splendid shot as it was swinging in by the far post. Next Elliott dashed out to save well from Eglington as Everton blasted wide the Wolves’ defence by the sheer precision of their passing. With any luck Everton would have been three goals up at the interval, and their play certainty deserved it. I have not seen them in better form this season.
Half-time; Wolves 2, Everton 2
On resuming, Everton took up the running again, but Eglington’s shot flashed across the face of the Wolves goal. The Mynard slipped across a menacing centre which, however, was well disposed of by Jones. Dunn ran through, but was baulked of a shot, and then Everton came away through the agency of Fielding and Grant, but Dodds shot was charged down. Lindley was injured, but not sufficiently to prevent his continuing. Fielding and Grant tied McLean up in knots and Fielding slipped the ball forward, for Grant to go on and look all over a scorer until Shorthouse came across with a last minute tackle to save at the expense of a corner. Hancock’s raced through and after centring being could not stop him, self and had to take a safely leap into the spectators. The snow wads only intermittent now and in fact the conditions were almost ideal for accurate football. Farrell got Eglington away, but the centre went behind and Dodds was unjustifiably booed by the crowd for challenging Shorthouse. Everton should have taken the lead for the third time when Eglington was brought back into the game and he left Kelly behind as he ran on and placed the ball low across the face of the goal. Dodds had a clear opening, but missed the ball just as did Mclean who ran in to cover up. And Eglington was through again as Everton piled on the pressure – pressure which should have produced goals –and just as Dodds went in to say thank you” to a lovely centre the ball struck Shorthouse on the back and ran to safely.
Fine Save
Sagar saved well from Hancock’s before Jones got his foot to a Westcott effort and turned it high over. Everton were still the more compact side and deserved to have the match in safe keeping. It was a joy to see all five Everton forwards figuring in one attack which ended with Fielding letting one go from the edge of the penalty area, the ball being inches over. Then Elliott dashed out to save off the head of Dodds, who was dashing in to convert a pass from Grant. The Wolves’ forward were being held in subjection by Everton’s grand half-backs, who were dominating the game. Everton regained the lead and deservedly so, in the 83rd minute through Dodds. This was a double effort, for Dodds slipped Grant through splendidly and Grant shot, along the ground. Elliott dived to his right and saved, but he could only push the ball out to Dodds, who banged it into the net. Straight away Grant and Dodds almost repeated the move, but this time Grant centred, and Dodd’s shot went just wide. Grant was now playing as much havoc will McLean as Eglington had done with Kelly earlier on, and this seems to end any hopes McLean had of getting his Welsh cap against Ireland. With four minutes to go, Dodds made it game and rubber, with an amazing goal. Receiving from Fielding, he defied a three-man challenge and just when it seemed as if he were beaten he flashed the ball into the net with his right foot from 25 yards all along the floor. Dodds almost completed a hat-trick with a tricky back-heel off Grant’s centre, but this time Elliott had come across to bar the way. Kelly went up in a forlom effort to break down the Everton defence, but his shot was well off the mark. Final; Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Everton 4.
• Everton Res 4, Chesterfield Res 2
• Bursclough 5, Everton “A” 1
EVERTON AT THEIR BEST
February 21, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
In First-Half Duel
Three For Dodds
Wolves 2, Everton 4
By Stork
It had been a deserved win for Everton, and this was one of their best performances away from home. Wolverhampton Wanderers;- Elliott, goal; Kelly and McLean, backs; Crook, Shorthouse and Wright (captain), half-backs; Hancock, Dunn, Westcott, Stevenson and Maynard, forwards. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Lindley, T.G. Jones and Farrell (captain), half-backs; Grant, Fielding, Dodds, Lello, and Eglington, forwards. Referee; Mr. W.B. Nixon (Manchester). Mr. Herbert Powell, the Welsh F.A. secretary, was among those present at the match looking for players for his forthcoming international game on March 13. The appearance of Lello at inside left –his first appearance in the senior side –was interesting.
Bitterly Cold
The groundsmen had a busy time clearing the lines from snow. It was bitterly cold and was snowing when the game started. There was a grand attendance in the circumstances. The Wanderers won a corner in the first minute. The corner was safely negotiated without the attack being beaten off, and within a space of a minute Hancocks had two shots, Sagar saving cleverly. The first time Everton attacked they opened the score. Dodds was the initiators, for he made a wide pass out to Grant. Grant took the ball down, and passed to Eglington, who got his head to it to nod it downwards into the net. Time; Three minutes.
Almost Two
Everton almost had a second goal when Dodds was put through by Lello. His shot struck the post, Shorthouse, in his effort to clear, nearly put through his own goal. Considering the snow, the play was fast and clever and within seven minutes Wolverhampton had equalised. Westcott burst through and hit the post with a low shot. The ball came out to Dunn, who promptly shot it into the net. Everton’s second goal came quickly, Fielding shot hard and straight. Elliott, however, brought off a startling save, although only able to punch the ball away. Dodds was bang on the spot for such an opportunity, and he smartly put the ball into the net at the 12th minute. Everton were playing fine football and Lello was showing up well. Dodds had the hardest of luck when he picked up a Lello through pass and with his left-foot crashed the ball up against the far upright.
Equaliser
None times out of ten the ball would have burned into the net, but this time it went into Elliott’s hands. Then when the Everton defence stopped playing, appealing for off-side, the ball went to Westcott, who ran through on his own, giving Sagar no chance. Time 23 minutes. Wolverhampton were distinctly lucky to be on level terms, for Everton were an impressive side and had the better of the exchanges. Jones saved a certainly when he headed away as Westcott came in to take a Hancock’s centre. Fielding was having a fine game, and Dodds cleverly beat three men before offering Eglington a chance. Elliott moved quickly across his goal to keep out a Fielding shot. With the slightest luck Everton would have held a commanding lead when the interval arrived. It was one of their best displays.
Half-time; Wolverhampton 2, Everton 2.
Everton were soon into their stride and following some nice play Eglington cracked in a shot which went soaring high over the bar. Then Maynard wasted a ball by centring behind. Handcock’s chasing a ball which looked like going dead, managed to get in his centre, but the ball swung wide. Fielding opened the Wolves defence with a body swerve and got a ball over to Eglington, whose centre was cleared by the Wanderers. Mynard, one of the Wolves’ young lads, did many good things in a straightforward manner. Lindley was hurt, but was there to stern a dangerous-looking Wolves attack. Grant and Dodds combined in an effort which ended with a shot by Dodds being cannoned out. Fielding and Grant worked a corner which was non-productive, and than Stevenson came under the referee’s warning for a vigorous tackle on Lindley. The play now was not to be compared with the first forty-five minutes.
Fine Chance Missed
Westcott set Hancocks off with a pass that normally would have gone out, but the snow put a brake on the ball, and the Wolves winger’s cross was ultimately captured by Sagar. Dodds missed a fine chance from Eglington’s centre. Both he and Mclean failed to contact the ball. Eglington showed a clean pair of heels to the opposition, and Elliott the goalkeeper, was lucky when the ball hit his backs. Westcott had a shot cannoned away for a corner, and Sagar had to make a save from an overhead kick by Dunn. Everton were still the better side as regards football, for the Wanderers rolled mainly on kick and rush tactics. Fielding shot over, but incidents hereabouts were few and far between. Everton regained the lead after 83 minutes. Grant made a low shot which, Elliott saved but he lost possession and Dodds slipped in to score. Three minutes later Dodds scored again, purely an individual effort, Elliott being caught napping. Grant was now complete master of McLean, and Everton were now on top of the Wolves. Final; Wolverhampton 2, Everton 4.
EVERTON RES V CHESTERFIELD RES
February 21, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
Chesterfield improved in the second half, and the Everton defence was troubled. In the 70th minute Lyon reduced the arrears. Shortly afterwards Greenhalgh deflected the ball into his own goal from Bardshaw’s shot to level the scores.
EVERTON REVELLED IN SNOW
February 23, 1948. The Liverpool Daily Post
By Stork
Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Everton 4
Everton seem to revel in the snow. Twelve months ago they produced some of their best football on snow-topped turf. Here they gave another display of fine football on three inches of snow and made the Wanderers look second rate. They coaxed the ball to their bidding by precision passes and spilt open the defence best so easily they should have held a long lead at the half-way stage. In this spell they scored twice, twice hit the woodwork and found Wright kicking off the line with Elliott beaten. Yet Wolverhampton were able to boast a “half” at the interval because of an Everton hesitation in the belief that an offence decision was pending when Westcott scored. For the second goal Dunn was given the simpiest chance after Westcott had shot against the upright. There was great class evident in this Everton side, but the Wolves were not prepared to surrender easily.
Faltered at Last
With ten minutes remaining it seemed that a draw would be the result despite Everton’s firm grip. At long last the Wolves defence faltered and faltered badly, conceding two goals by two goalkeepers errors. Elliott, who had not been convincing at any point, was made to pay a full price. When Grant shot hard and low, the goalkeeper went down with coindence and there seemed little danger, but the ball must have passed through his hands on to his chest, it bounced away from him and Dodds promptly slapped it into the net. A goal with only seven minutes to go was of immense value. Three minutes later, when Dodds was surrounded by a cluster of Wolves defenders, he managed to get in his shot. Elliott must have been of the opinion that the Everton centre-forward could never win his bout, and was unprepared for a shot for which he moved too late.
Farrell’s Captaincy
Peter Farrell, captain for the day for the second time since he came to Everton, was successful again. Dodds hat-trick was a fine effort. Much of Everton’s success was due to the wing half-backs. Lindley after an uncertain five minutes, had a grand game. Newcomer Lello, justified all the good things I have heard about him. He has sound ball control was clever in his passing, and was always up, flinking the ball this and that way in the style of a real artist. Fielding, at inside right was just as much at home as on the left. Dodds upset the defence by his quick bursts and ability to be in the right place at the right moment. Eglington was the best winger on the field and scored a nice opening goal, with Grant playing his part in this highly satisfactory victory. Saunders, steady and strong, Dugdale taking on the clever Hancocks and giving as much as he received, and Jones closing down the middle against opportunist Westcott.
TOMMY JONES IS CERTAINY FOR WALES
February 23, 1958. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Tommy Jones, of Everton, will be the centre-half for Wales against Ireland in the international match at Wrexham on March 10, Jones made sure of his place by his splendid “come-back” display on Saturday in helping Everton to their 4-2 win over the Wanderers at Wolverhampton. Watching the grand Everton display was Mr. Herbert Powell, secretary of the Football Association of Wales, whose Council meets next Monday to select the side for the international. Mr. Powell was again charmed with the master touch of Jones in a game which raised his hopes that he had made another Welsh discovery. I refer to Cyril Lello, 26-year-old Everton debutant inside-left who so caught the eye with a model display. Knowing that Lello came from Shrewsbury Town. Mr. Powell thought maybe there was a chance Cyril was a Welshman. Mr. Powell dashed off to the Everton folk –directors Messrs Dickie Williams (acting chairman), Ernest Green, and Harold Williams and secretary-manager Theo Kelly to get the “gen”. Herbert was doomed to disappointment for Lello was born in Ludlow and is an Englishman. Hard luck, Wales, for here is a player who would be inestimable value to you as he may easily prove one if the finest investments Everton have made in years. In these days of the £20,000 players it is grand to think that here Everton have found a gem for to use Mr. Kelly’s words, a handful of coppers.” Transfer fees are secret but I fancy Lello did not cost a farthing more than £700. And Saturday’s display has added another nought to that figure already. What a joy day this was for Everton with the two “we-want-a-transfer” players Jones and Jock Dodds returning with carefree buoyant displays. How rich are Everton in players when one weighs this amazing forward display against the fact that men like Wainwright, Stevenson, Catterick, Mcllhatton and others were not in the team.
Half-Back Power
The great Everton success was built up on the devastating power of their half-back line, in which Maurice Lindley returned to delight with his control, delicate use of the ball and strength in defence. Lindley like Tommy Jones, had to have time in which to settle down-both have been out of First Division “touch” for a time –but had a grand last hour. Farrell found the cares of captaincy light on his shoulders, for he was the instigator of those rich, lustrous Everton raids and outshone even Willie Wright. That is the best tribute I can pay both Farrell and to a certain extent Lindley. No player has, ever held Westcott as effectively as did Jones, whose main virtue, however, was in imbuing Everton with an attacking urge we missed in the Fulham games. Jones made Saunders, Dugdale, and Sagar feel confident of their own ability to take on all defensive duties leaving others to go a-raiding. And did Everton like this new-old idea? I’ll say, Fielding flashed right back to form as the creative genius exploiting four keen, deadly strikers in Eglington, Dodds, Lello, and Grant to his heart’s content. Dodds not only grabbed a hat-trick of goals, but led the line splendid on a ground made ideal for the football constructionists by its nice carpet of snow. Eglington was dazzling in his speed against the overworked Kelly, while Grant played big McLean out of the Welsh side by his cuteness and quick turning. Dugdale’s safely-first tactics were wise against the clever Hancocks, while Saunders was absolutely without blemish, and Sagar the grand safe Ted who may be honoured by the football League on March 17. On reflection I doubt whether there was a better player in the whole game, than Saunders and that is not intended to detract from the individual or team brilliance of any of the other 10 Toffees. This was the brand of academic football which made one forget the ice cold and Chairman Mr. J.S. Baker of the Wolves said to me after. How Everton are in the bottom half of the table beats me.” Agreed Mr. Baker but more of this football and they will be well in the top half. Eglington and Dodds first 12 minutes goals were wiped out by Dunn and Westcott, but Dodds got two more in the last seven minutes; his fourth being a glorious right-footer although being almost hemmed in by three players. After a show like this, how anyone can went to leave such a team and club is incredible.
EVERTON WERE MASTERS
February 23, 1948. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger’s Notes
Everton gave one of their best exhibitions of football at Molyneux on Saturday, and it was on a ground forward with three of four inches of snow. It seem that they like the snow, for this time last year they put up some amazing displays on snow-covered pitches. They certainty made Wolverhampton look very primary foeman on Saturday, and the score -4-2 –was in no way flattering, for they were that and a good bit more the superior side. The changes they made were justified up to the hill, for there was a link-up one with the other, which is the very essence of a good football team. This say they propelled the ball to a given destination, was extraordinary, and with the least bit of luck they would had the game won at the interval (writes Stork). They even allowed for the drag on the ball, which, once its touched neither earth, was braked by the clogging snow, but it did not present precision like passing reaching the point intended. They were complete masters of the ball and in the main had the Wolves ascending after five minutes. The great point was that they were not a purely defensive team, as has been the case for the last couple of weeks. They went after goals –got four – it might have been half a dozen –and ultimately played Wolverhampton out of the game. A few weeks previously a tremendous tussle for supremacy had taken place at Molyneux were each side had a triumphant “45”. On Saturday Everton were always in command by good or better football and a much more potent attack. We had helped Everton’s great destructive skills. Today we can acclaim then an all-round team, one with an attack which have their defenders a respite. This we have demand for some time for defence alone in not sufficient. I think I can safely say this was one of their brightness and best away performances this season for they accompanied their victory in as zenith a manner as could be desired. The honours do not go to one section of the team; the glory to no single player, but to the team as a whole. Lello made an auspicious debut, and Wolves must wonder how they failed to land him in their doorstep. Furthermore Herbert Powell the Welsh F.A secretary, looking for future internationals was anxious to know whether Lello was a Welshman or not. Unfortunately for Wales he is not. Lello is the Everton type. Good ball control, a nice passer of the ball and one with a fighting equality. Doods had an impressive effect upon the Wolves defence, which was ultimately subdued and shattered with goalkeeper Elliott, never convincing, making two late on mistakes which give Dodds two goals and a hat-trick. It was a triumph of good class football over combat endeavour.
EVERTON DATES
February 25, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
The postponed Merseyside Derby match between Liverpool and Everton will take place at Anfield on Wednesday, April 21. Secretary Manager Theo Kelly announced today that other Everton re0arranged dates (only one requires confirmation) will be April 7; Huddersfield Town (Central League) at Goodison Park; April 14; Chelsea (Football League) at Goodison Park; April 19; Liverpool (Central League) at Goodison Park; April 21; Liverpool (Football league) at Anfield; April 28; Huddersfield Town (Football League) at Leeds-road.
Everton make no change –who would have expected any? –in the team that won 4-2 at Wolverhampton, for their match with Middlesbrough at Goodison Park on Saturday. Eddie Wainwright, who has been suffering from a rheumatic condition, may have a run with the reserves at Bolton. This will be the hone debut in the Football league of Lello, who played for the first team in the Lancashire Senior Cup second round against Bolton in the autumn. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Lindley, Jones (TG), Farrell; Grant, Fielding, Dodds, Lello, Eglington.
MIDDLESBROUGH VISIT
February 27, 1948. The Evening Express
Pilot’s Log (Don Kendall)
Everton will be at home to Middlesbrough who are making their second trip to the city in eight days and on the form shown when winning 4-2 at Wolves last week, should beat the Teasiders for the second time having done so per Wainwright’s goal at Aryesome. The game affords the Goodison habitués their first chance of seeing the new sensation, 26-year-old Cyril Lello, in action in a League game, and I know they will take this alert, quick-thinking and quick-moving inside-left to their hearts. Lello is exceptionally good in a line of 100 per cent attacking, who more quickly to the open space, hold the ball not a fraction longer than is vitally necessary, and with every man ready to “have a go. “ The Borough were a trifle fortunate to beat Liverpool last week, but I do not think they can repeat the victory tomorrow at a ground where in history they have won only twice. Everton naturally make no change in a winning combination any more than they changed the successful cup side, but the Borough will have ex-Chesterfield pivot, Whittaker, back after injury, McCabe going to right half for Bell, and with Dobbie coming in for Dicks. This should produce football of classic heights with the Blues again earning fill bonus. Everton; Sagar; Saunders, Dugdale; Lindley, Tommy Jones, Farrell; Grant, Fielding, Dodds, Lello, Eglington. Middlesbrough; Goodfellow; Dickie, Robinson; Hardwick; McCabe, Whittaker, Gordon; Spunhler, Dobbie, Fenton, Mannion, Walker.
LELLO’S DOUBLE BLOW TO BORO’
February 28, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
New Everton man’s Bright Home Debut
Accepted His Chances
Grand Defence
Visitors’ Fight Hard For Equaliser
Everton 2, Middlesbrough 1
By Stork
Middlesbrough more incisive than a week ago, but Everton deserved their win because they had been the more persistent attackers and too what chances there were. Everton; Sagar, goal; Saunders and Dugdale, backs; Lindley, Jones and Farrell (Captain), half-backs; Grant, Fielding, Dodds, Lello, and Eglington, forwards. Middlesbrough; Goodfellow, goal; Robinson and Hardwick, backs; McCabe, Whittaker, and Gordon, half-backs; Spunler, Dubbie, Fenton, Mannion and Walker, forwards. Referee; Mr. J.J. Russell (Leeds). The attendance would be in the region of 50,000. There was a bright opening and Middlesbrough showed a sprightliness which was full of promise until they became involved in a foul which led to them being driven back to their own quarters. Dodds, who tried to make one of his fancy back-heel passes failed to contact the ball.
Lello’s Flick Pass Lello was soon prominent with a flick pass which sent Eglington away, but the Irishman’s centre was intercepted, and the Boro’ bounded back into an attack which had the Everton defence disturbed, and it was some minutes before the North Easterners were cleared out of the home quarters. The Boro were a very live lot and at seven minutes they took the lead. Walker had moved inside left for the moment and then made a cute pass to Spunler. I know that Spunler is possessed of a very fierce drive. He unleashed one and Sagar, who had come out, found the ball travelling past him and into the net. This was a bit of a blow, but there was plenty of time to rectify matters. Dodds set things moving with another side of the boot flick, to which Fielding was not quite up to, otherwise the defence would have been in great trouble.
Two Drives by Jones
Farrell was prompting his forwards beautifully. In fact, he was almost a sixth forward at times, and Everton continued with such determination that Middlesbrough conceded a free kick. This was taken by Jones, who slammed in a tremendous drive for Good fellow to make a grand save. Middlesbrough’s trouble, however was not cleared and Jones ultimately picked up a return and again shot for goal, but this time the ball travelled a foot or so outside. The Everton goal was as near falling a second time when Spuhler was right on the mark with a header. Sagar moved to it but did not make contact, and the ball was sailing safely into the net when Dugdale rushed in and kicked away.
Crowding on Pressure
For a spell Everton crowded on all they knew and Fielding and Grant often had Hardwick wondering how he was going to deal with such matters. Dodds reserted a foul being given against him when he was alleged to have pushed Whitaker. He got some recompense later, but as t did not bring any advantage it need little comment. Fenton was given a half chance when Dugdale failed in his challenge but the Middlesbrough man was not quick enough to take it, and Dugdale was not slow to take advantage of this let-off.
Fatal Corner
Fielding, Lello and Eglington combined in a movement which produced a corner, Lello’s shot being blocked away. The corner proved fatal. How the Middlesbrough goal escaped with the first header –and there were four-was amazing, for goalkeeper Goodfellow was completely beaten by Dodds but Robinson standing under the bar headed out. Then it was Jones’s turn, and again the ball failed to reach the net. Lello had one go, but at the second he managed to land the ball into the goal, to equalise at 31 minutes thus recording his first goal in the senior side. Everton might easily have had a second a minute later, for Dodds was given a beautiful pass by Fielding, but in his haste he shot outside.
Pounding The Boro
Farrell and Fielding got together to provide Dodds with a reasonably good opening, but the Everton centre forward tried to work out an even better position for himself and this led to his downfall. Farrell was an energetic run found himself in a position to shoot. This he did and a corner was the result. A faulty header by Lindley led to a tense moment which was not relieved until Fenton shot behind, but Everton were soon back pounding the Borough defence and from another corner Fielding shot wide. Everton had been on top for a considerable period but the half concluded with Middlesbrough making play on their right, which ended with the ball being shot over.
Half-time; Everton 1, Middlesbrough 1.
Everton bounded right back into the attack in the second half, and Hardwick looked anything but an England back in his sally with Grant. Fielding tried a bow at a venture with a long shot, but it soared high over the bar. Then the Borough were awarded a free kick a few yards outside the penalty area and they tried the old trick of touching the ball sideways instead of taxing a direct kick, but the result was negative, the shot being cannoned away.
Lello-Fielding Switch
Straight from that Everton attacked with force, the incident culminating with a shot by Lello which passed over. I noticed that when Fielding edged over to the left, Lello immediately moved over to the right, so that there were no gaps. One brilliant round of passing was dispossessed. Jones was once at fault and it opened the way, but the Borough were not penetrative enough to beat down the Everton defence. Spuhler, with a crossfield pass tried to spilt open the Everton defence, but Jones was “wide” to the idea and he had no difficulty in clearing. Eglington was taken to task by the referee for something which I did not see, but I did see Dugdale making wonderful header to stop Spuhler. Lindley had found his passing boots and he pushed one lovely ball through to Ellington, who was being exploited to the full, but who was not getting the value of such promptings. Mannion and Fenton contrived to rend the Everton defence ascender and for a time there were difficulties ahead of Everton, particularly when Spuhler crossed a ball which was over Jones’s head and on to Walker who shot fiercely but without direction.
Simple Chance missed
Middlesbrough were still dangerous. They should have had a leading goal when Walker offered Spuhler one of the simplest chances I have witnessed in years. Spuhler had only to tap the ball, but he elected to shoot and in his amazement Sagar slipped across his goal like lightning and saved. Everton showed them how to take such chances a few minutes later. Grant put in a long shot, which Goodfellow fielded but on being challenged by Dodds he lost possession, and Lello, being on the spot too his chance confidently to mark up his second goal in League football. This was at 65 minutes. Everton had only got their deserts for they had been the most persistent attackers. Yet Fenton, if he could have found another yard would certainly have troubled Sagar with a ball which came from Walker. Mannion had a shot blocked away by Dugdale, and Lindley looked after Fenton when the latter was striding strongly forward the Everton goal. Mannion, Walker, and Spuhler linked up in a passing movement which caused some hot work in the Everton goalmouth. Mannion made a galliant effort to break through but without success. Nevertheless it will explain just how the Borough were fighting back. They came again and their reward was a corner, but it was disposed of and Everton repelled with a raid with their right winger. Fielding and Dodds in a duel role could very easily have manufactures a goal between them but Fielding final effort was slightly off their mark. Middlesbrough changed their forward line, Spuhler moving inside. There were only a few minutes to go but the way the Borough were battling Everton could take no risks. Final; Everton 2, Middlesbrough 1.
BOLTON RES V EVERTON RES
February 28, 1948. The Evening Express
Everton scored in 8 minutes through Higgins, after Lees had fallen when attempting to clear. Everton were the more accomplished side, but Burnett saved cleverly from Burgess and Elvy made a grand full length save from McShane. Handdling brought Wanderers a penalty, but Burnett saved Burgess’s shot. Burgess than shot wide from another penalty. Everton defended with great vigour. Half-time; Bolton Res 0, Everton Res 1.
BOLTON RES V EVERTON RES
February 28, 1948. The Liverpool Football Echo
The slippery ground was largely responsible for the goal to Everton, Higgin’s scoring in eight minutes. Burnett stopped a penalty kick taken by Burgess, who shot wide from another penalty kick.
Half-time; Bolton Wanderers Res 0, Everton Res 1
Gardner scored a second goal for Everton in the second half. After Higgins had struck the bar, Pinchbeck added a third from Gardner’s centre. Full-time; Bolton Wanderers Res 0, Everton Res 4.
February 1948