EVERTON v  CHESTERFIELD
Football Post (Nottingham) - Saturday 03 February 1906
After holding out well all the first half the defence of the Crooked Spire team is thrice penetrated in ten minutes on resuming.
COPE THE CONSPICIOUS
With both the Liverpool clubs operating at home, as the result of purchasing the right to choice of ground from their opponents, it was not anticipated that the “gate” at Goodison Park would reach the dimensions usually associated with cup-tie contests in Liverpool. Locally, however, the event aroused considerable interest, and with the return to form of the Evertonians the home supporters expected their favourites to qualify for the third round. On the other hand, although Chesterfield had yielded to the power of gold, they by no means considered the result as a foregone conclusion. Second League organisations, when pitted against members of the Senior Division, have the happy knack of rising to the occasion, and administering an unpleasant surprise to their opponents. Both teams recognised the importance of the issue, and were resolved to go all the way to try to achieve victory. The Everton players had bene put through a strict course of home training, and were reported fit and well. Cook took the place of Bolton, who was ineligible to take part in the contest, otherwise the directors relied upon the eleven which gained such an excellent victory over Aston Villa on Saturday last. Chesterfield too, had made a praiseworthy effort to get their players into condition, in the hope that the wheel of fortune might turn in their favour, weather was delightfully fine, but there were only 5,000 spectators. Everton won the toss and Chesterfield commenced against the sun. The Everton right was first to make headway, but Tacker forced his opponents to return, and then play was confined to midfield, the halves on both sides preventing the forwards from getting under way. Handley, however, forced an opening and sent in a high dropping shot which Scott safely handled. The Everton forwards next advanced, and Sharp got in a clever centre which Cooke put behind. Sharp repeated the performance a moment later, and Marples saved by good headwork. There was no mistaking the persistency of the Everton attacks, which was being driven home in relentless fashion, and it required all the best efforts of the Chesterfield defenders to stave off defeat. Makepeace served Sharp nicely, and the latter finished by gaining an abortive corner. Both sides were now striving their best to gain the all-important point, and a keen contest was witnessed. The visiting forwards put in clever footwork, but Scott was rarely seriously troubled. Gilbertson and Handley compelled him to clear, and then faulty passing by the Chesterfield forwards spoiled good work. Sharp was always on the move, and Thacker found him a difficult customer to hold.
Half-time; Everton 0 Chesterfield 0
The attendance had reached 20,000 when the teams re-appeared. Young commenced, and immediately the home forwards swarmed round Cope’s charge. Sharp missed from a capital centre by Taylor when the merest touch only was required. Then Chesterfield got under way, only for Taylor to send over. Everton returned to the attack, and all sorts of difficult shots from every position were showered n upon Cope. The custodian dealt with all and sundry in masterly fashion, one attempt by Makepeace eliciting even the applaudits of the home spectators. So persistent was the Everton attack that the visitors found extreme difficulty in crossing the half-way line. After an exciting bully in the Chesterfield goalmouth, Settle found the net. This success stimulated the home attack, and Marples and baker had an anxious time. Young succeeded in getting a second goal for Everton, who now found little difficulty in keeping up the pressure. A third came a little later, Taylor putting through from a centre by hardman, and the result was;- Everton 3 Chesterfield 0
NOTES ON THE GAME
The game opened in true Cup-tie fashion, both teams recognising the importance of drawing first blood. The forwards of both sides were particularly lively, and the defenders had an anxious time. Still the home forwards never got into their swing, and the Chesterfield defence prevailed. This no doubt accounted for the clean sheet at the interval. On crossing over, however, the Everton forwards made the pace hot and furious, and the Chesterfield defence failed to sustain the previous good work. Cope was a hero, and it was due to his splendid work that Everton were kept at bay so long. The inevitable, however, occurred, and the Everton forwards put on three goals in ten minutes. The visitors were now thoroughly beaten, and rarely troubled the home defence. Occasionally, however, Munday and his colleagues gave glimpses of their cleverness, which would have mastered a less able defence.

EVERTON v  CHESTERFIELD
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 03 February 1906
ENGLISH CUP
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
A GOALLESS FIRST HALF
The draw for the second round of the English Cup found Everton pitted against Chesterfield. The Derbyshire club having the choice of ground, thanks to the liberal offer of the Everton executives, Chesterfield were induced to come to Liverpool in order to decide the issue. This was the first occasion on which to-day’s contestants had met, and local speculation was fife as to the manner in which the Blues would fare against the Second League organisation. The home supporters, however, were fairly sanguine on to the result, and consequently anticipated their favourites entering the third round. Still the ability of the Derbyshire men was not over-looked, and a keen contest was looked forward to. At the last moment it was found that Black was unable to turn out, and Abbott was drafted into the left half position, while Makepeace resumed his customary position as right half-back. There were probably not more than 5,000 spectators present when the teams faced as follows;-
Everton.- Scott goal; Hill and W. Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Cook, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Chesterfield.- Cope, goal; Marples and Baker, backs; Haigh, Milnes and Thacher, half-backs; Dyall, Taylor, Gilherthorpe, Munday, and Handley, forwards.
Referee.- Mr. J. Adams.
Everton won the toss, and elected to play with their backs to the sun, though with an oblique wind rather against them. The opening stages were very even in character, but the home side gradually made ground on the right, and Sharp looked dangerous when Tracher cleared his lines. There was some work of a rather scrambling character near the centre line, and then the Chesterfield left wing moved down, and Handley put in a high dropping shot which Scott ran out to and cleared. After this the Evertonians began to smart themselves strongly and a grand bit of work on the right ended in Cooke putting in a swift low shots, which went only inches wide. The home side were now showing marked superiority, and on two occasions Sharp put in glorious centres, the latter being very cleverly away by Marples. A spell of further midfield work followed and a big punt on the part of Baker put the visitors in position on the left. Here they looked like giving trouble, but Makepeace come to Hill’s assistance and cleared. Sharp took up the pass and raced away at top speed. His final shot, however, was very weak, and Baker cleared at the expense of a corner. This was well placed, and led to an exciting struggle in front of Cope, but the danger was eventually cleared, and the neighbourhood of the centre line was once again the scene of action. Young was once in good position, but he passed badly and a fine chance was lost. Sharp gave to Hardman who unfortunately for his side slipped in taking the leather. The mistake mattered little, however, as the Evertonians regained possession, and then an exciting bully occurred in front of Cope, the ball bobbling about in tantalising fashion until one of the Chesterfield defenders succeeded in clearing. Harold Hardman was next in evidence with a long shot, which all but found the net. The next movement of interest was a breakaway by the visitors’ front line, and Balmer was beaten when Hill came to the rescue, and cleared. Following upon this there was another sustained attack on the Chesterfield citadel, but the Blues were very slow to take advantage of the openings offered, while in other instances family shooting was most conspicuous. A brilliant sprint along the wing by Sharp ended in the cricketer passing to Settle, but the latter mulled it badly, and Taylor dashing on, could only place the leather outside. A temporary diversion was sent through the Chesterfield right wing working their way down but though Balmer was beaten, Dyall missed the opportunity by shooting wide of the mark. From the return the Everton forwards advanced in combined order, and Young was splendidly placed when he put in a fast, low shot, which Marples succeeded in kicking out. Settle took up the attack, and again Young was given a good opening, which he was too slow to appreciate. The Chesterfield forwards next had a look in, and some pretty and effective footwork was witnessed in which Gilbertson and Taylor excelled. The former shot, but the effort was too weak to cause Scott any real alarm, and the Irish international easily cleared. In the next minute the visiting forwards had another opportunity of advancing their interested but faulty passing robbed them of a favourable opening. Sharp got away, and easily out-distanced his pursuers, only to find that he had been guilty of a breach of the off-side rule. The Everton forward continued to worry and harass the visitors’ defence and Cooke was in as admirable position when he shot outside. Try as they could, the Blues could not find the Chesterfield net, and after a time the visitors carried the war into the other camp, but Munday was ably accounted for by Hill, and there was more action in midfield. The Evertonians gradually made ground, and Settle tried his luck with a tremendously swift drive, which Cope just succeeded in diverting from its intended course. The next movement of interest was a determined break away by the home right, which terminated in Taylor shooting well, but Scott cleared of the second attempt-a narrow squeak for the Blues. It was not long before the home forwards were again on the warpath, and a quick shot from Cooke was only saved ay the expense of a corner. This was finely placed by Hardman and it led to a tremendous bally right in the Chesterfield goalmouth but the custodian eventually succeeded in clearing from a header by Sharp. As the interval drew near the Evertonians made desperate efforts to gain a lead, and from a pass by Settle, Hardman seemed certain of scoring. The ball, however, was intercepted by one of the Chesterfield backs who appeared to handle it. A claim was made for a penalty, but Mr. Adams after conferring with one of the linesmen, throw the leather up. Following on this the visitors made a most determined onslaught on the Everton goal, the three inside men all shooting and Scott was out of his charge when unfortunately for Everton,the Goodison Park brigade subjected Cope to a terrific bombardment. First Sharp, then Settle, and then Hardman and in shots from short range but luck favoured the visitors, and the ball was kept out, almost miraculously,  Abbott finally sending over the bar with a hard drive. Still the home side persisted, and Settle shot again, without success, only to be followed by Taylor, who sent just over the bar. Everton were still in front of the visitors goal when half-time came, nothing having been scored. Half-time score Everton Nil, Chesterfield Nil.
A TAME FIRST HALF
A DOZEN CHANCES MISSED
NO SCORE AT INTERVAL
EVERTON IMPROVE & SCORE THRICE IN TEN MINUTES
During the interval the attendance increased considerably, and when the teams appeared there must have been 10,000 people present. Young commenced, and the home forwards were at once in evidence. After Hardman had failed to gather the leather on the left wing Taylor put in an accurate centre which required the merest touch to convert. Sharp, however, sent wide when situated within a few feet of the Chesterfield goalline. The visitors next took up the attack, and Taylor travelled to the corner. His final centre, however, went behind the post. Perfect footwork by the Everton forwards availed them nothing, and then a fine centre by Sharp was headed inches wide of the goal by Young. Baker fouled Sharp, and from the free kick the position was saved by the granting of a corner from which Little kicked over. These were two narrow escapes for the Chesterfield goal, and indicated the persistency of the home attack. At this period there was only one team in, but somehow, however, Everton could do nothing right when in front of goal, and a movement that seemed almost certain of success ended in Sharp kicking over. Nevertheless the home forwards kept pegging away, and a combined movement on the part of the three inside men at length had its due reward; for, after Cope had cleared once, he as beaten by a low, swift shot from the foot of Settle. Clever work by Cooke and Sharp adjacent to the visitors’ goal only served to bring out the fine defensive qualities of the Derbyshire men. Makepeace put in a swift, low shot which Cope cleverly saved; and in the next few minutes the visitors custodian gave further proof of his remarkable ability by saving all sorts of difficult shots. Young put in a feeble attempt which Cope easily saved, and then Hardman centred for Cooke to put over. Great cheering greeted this tardy and therefore all the more welcome goal, and for the next few minutes the Evertonians had matters all their own way. The visitors’ defence appeared for a time to be paralysed and Young slipped in between the backs added a second goal amidst tremendous enthusiasm. It was now obvious that there was only one team in the running, and this fact was emphasised when, after another long spell of attack, Taylor put on a third goal for the Blues. The visitors stuck pluckily to their guns, and once Gilherthorpe ran through and shot strongly but Scott cleared. The game continued all in favour of the home side and the visitors were further handicapped through Miles colliding with Abbott and having to be carried off the field. He was able, however, to return soon after. Final Result; Everton 3 goals, Chesterfield Nil.
EVERTON’S GATE
At the Everton ground this afternoon the receipts amounted to £325 and the attendance is estimated at about 12,000.

ST HELENS REC v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 03 February 1906
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION- DIV 1
HUNTER’S BENEFIT
There was a capital attendance at City-road, St. Helens, to-day, when Wick Hunter, the popular St. Helens half back was given a benefit. Everton Reserves were the visitors, and great interest was taken in the fixture. There was two changes in the Everton team, Kelly taking Collins’s place in goal, and Butler playing outside right. The start was delayed until a quarter past three. Everton won the toss, and took advantage of the gale blowing down the field. Roberts started and Burton twice checked the Everton left, but they finally got down and centred, Butler taking a long shot at goal, which Roughley sent safely past but a corner followed, and Butler scored, turning the ball skilfully round the post. The Recs then visited the Everton end, and Dagnall had a try at goal, but shot very harmlessly. Butler got away down the left and centred but Rankin shot over. The home left then made play, and elected the ball to the Everton end, but Roberts was given no chance when well placed. The players then began to give a very good display, the ball travelling quickly. Bardie sent the ball over in front of the goal, where Roughley ran out and it looked odds on Butler scoring, but Clegg managed to save the situation. The home left got off, and Neare sent in one of his ripping long shots, which Kenny had some difficulty in clearing. After good open play Martin took a long shot at goal, which Kenny almost misjudged, but he was fortunate enough to stop. Clegg led his side down and Rankin placed the ball dangerously near goal, but it was safely cleared. The Recs by good play managed to get up the other end, and Clarke adopted a way of making his opponents run for the ball, long shorts and keeping the defence lively. An attack on the Everton goal was cleared by Butler but Hunter stopped a further dash. Clegg than made a wretched miskick in the centre of the field, and Rankin ran down and gave Roughly a strong shot, but the custodian safely caught the ball. Lively work at the Recs and was followed by a grand run by Dagnall and Neve but the latter shot over. Clarke then forced a corner, which Kenny was called upon to fist away. A scrimmage followed in goal, and Buden shot wide. The Recs played manfully against the wind, and had a very fair share of the game. Burden placed the ball in front of goal, but it was easily cleared. Capital combination by the Everton forwards kept the back division on the alert, but both sides played a very close imitation of the one back again, and the forwards were constantly put offside. A long pass enabled Burden to get down and centre, but McCarthy made very poor use of a grand chance. A corner followed, which was cleared by Martin. A free kick at centre placed the home team on the attack again. Roberts gave Dagnall on opening but he was too slow in getting on the ball. Butler then made an effort to beat everybody, and run the ball through the goal, but Burden stuck to him, and Clegg saw the ball safely behind. In the concluding five minutes Everton were distinctly hand pressed. Clarke got away and drove hard for goal. A free kick was given against Kenny for carrying the ball, and the Recs had distinctly hard lines. Roberts and Dagnall had several shots at goal. Neve centred, and Dean almost defeated Kenny but he was lucky enough to recover himself, and clear when the crowd were already shouting in anticipation of a goal. Splendid football followed right up to the interval and for a long time Everton failed to get dangerous. The home forwards were on their mettle and made brilliant efforts to beat the defence but with out result. Half-time Everton Reserve 1 goal St. Helens Rec nil.

EVERTON 3 CHESTERFIELD 0 (Fa Cup Game 53)
February 5, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
EVERTON'S LIGHT TASK.
In visiting Goodison-park, Chesterfield got all that they anticipated. They were defeated it is true, but they knew this would happen before they consented to change the venue of the cup-tie. But they have the supreme satisfaction of showing that their coffers have been curioned to an extent, which probably had never been their experience since the club was formed. The sum of £500 is a very handsome addition to the funds of a struggling football organisation. Chesterfield, no doubt are eminently pleased with their share. In this season's cup ties, but whether Everton can congratulate themselves upon their deal is another matter. Although they loss money over the transaction they certainly can claim that besides giving their supporters an opportunity of witnessing the team playing at home they have done the Derbyshire club a really good turn.
MODERATE PLAY.
Whatever, chance there might have been of anything approaching a satisfactory game was spoiled by the high wind, which prevailed. At the same time the Second Leaguers offered a more stubborn resistance than had been anticipated. Indeed when the interval arrived and the Everton vanguard had failed to make any tangible impression on the Chesterfield defence, certain of the less sanguine supporters of the “Blues” were somewhat downcast. these gloomy foreboding however, were quickly dispelled after the teams had crossed over. The Everton players, who throughout had naturally been decidedly superior simply over whelmed the plucky Chesterfield defenders side with in the space of ten minutes Settle, Young, and Taylor placed the issue absolutely beyond doubt. As far as pressure was concerned Everton might easily have secured a much more decisive victory, out whether it was owing to the vagaries of the wind or to any other cause the fact remains that some of their attempts to drive the ball into the net, were ludicrous in the extreme. The play calls for no detailed criticism, as the home players were never really extended.
CHESTERFIELD SMART GOALKEEPER.
Although Chesterfield failed to register a goal, it must be admitted that in at least two instances a little luck might have brought about the downfall of the Everton goal. In Gilberthorpe they possess a promising centre forward, and on the left wing the veteran Monday and Handley showed some capital work. Unfortunately for Chesterfield their halves were no match for the Everton attack, but their backs defended gallantly, and as for Cope- the goalkeeper- he simply excelled himself. Evidently the Chesterfield management possess a happy knack of unearthing capable custodian. On the Everton side Cooke made a creditable debut, as partner to Sharp, who, despite one particularly bad miss was by far the most conspicuous forwards on the field. Makepeace, Taylor and Abbott, formed a trio of half-backs quite beyond the capabilities of the Chesterfield front line, and the backs accomplished all that came their way on satisfactory fashion. Teams. Everton: - Scott goal Hill, and W.Balmer backs Meakepeace, Taylor (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs Sharp Cooke, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Chesterfield: - Cope, goal, Marples, and Baker, backs, Haigh, Milnes and Thacker half-backs, Dyall, Taylor, Gilberthorpe, Monday and Handley, forwards. Referee J.Adams.

ST HELENS RECREATION 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
February 5, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One. (Game 25)
Everton's chances of securing championship honours have been practually settled as the result of their successive defeats at Southport and St Helens, and Accrington Stanley now hold a clear lead in the table. The match between the Leaguers reserves and St.Helens Recreation at Glassopolis on Saturday provided a keen struggle all though, and although play was somewhat interfered with by the strong wind prevailing, there were many exciting incidents. The match was set apart for the benefit of “Wick” Hunter, the St. Helens half-back, and there was a capital attendance. As the Recs triumphed by 2 goals to 1, their supporters were naturally elated, and on the run of the play the victory was well deserved. Everton had the advantage of the wind in the first half, but failed to profit by it. True, they got the only goal scored during this portion, but the home side had a fair share of the play, and on more than one occasion came near scoring. The Recs were well served by their defence, Roughley on one occasion making a fine save from Rankin. When the teams changed ends the Recs set to work in determined fashion, and Roberts equalised. The Everton backs performed will under pressure, Crelly in particular doing his side capital service, but Roberts got through again, and put on the winning goal. As Everton won the first match by 3 goals to 1, honours are now even. All round the Recs gave a good account of themselves, and their successive victories over Accrington and Everton show them to be a capable side. Everton were rather disappointing and Kelly, who kept goal in the absence of Collins, was none too safe several times fumbling the ball. Everton: - Kelly, Wildman and Crelly backs, Chadwick, Wright, and Donaldson, half-backs, Rankin McLoughlin, McCratney, Warbes and Butler forwards.

PERCY HILL OF EVERTON
Athletic News -Monday 05 February 1906
A promising back is Percy Hill, who seems to have gained a permanent place in the Everton eleven. Injuries and illnesses have been responsible for his introduction into the League eleven, but he has certainly made the most of his opportunities. Hill was born at Salisbury in 1885, and was educated at King Edward’s Grammar School, Southampton. At 11 he gained his place in the school team, and even in those early days played right back. After a season in the second eleven he was promoted to the first team, and during the last three years of his stay at the college was selected as captain. After leaving school, Hill became connected with Southampton Cambridge, and was chosen skipper of the minor team, a position he held for three successive years. Several honours in local competitions were secured by his club, and Hill found time during this same period to assist the Civil Service eleven, who gained first place in the Southampton and District Wednesday League. A year later he was promoted to the Southampton Cambridge junior team, where further honours were gained. He was frequently selected to represent his League against the chosen of other district Leagues, and was often appointed as captain of the side he assisted. On the recommendation of Alf. Milward, he came to Everton, and relinquished amateurism for the life of a professional. He first appeared for Everton against Wolverhampton on December 2, and again on New Year’s Day played at Hyde-road against Manchester City. He came into the eleven once more in the League fixture with Preston North End at Goodison Park, and has kept his place. Hill, who is a capable cricketer, enjoys physical advantages, for he stands 5ft. 10in, and weighs 11st. We shall see more of this young man.

EVERTON WIN COMFORTABLY.
Athletic News - Monday 05 February 1906
By Junius IL
Having persuaded Chesterfield to come to Goodison Park, Everton were naturally expected to easily account for the Second Leaguers, and this they accomplished in fairly easy fashion by three clear goals. At the last moment the home team had to be altered, for Black, who should have played right half, broke down whilst training, and this let in Abbott, thereby enabling Makepeace to resume in his original position on the right wing. The visitors had to face a dazzling sun in the first half, and, thanks to their sterling defence, they managed to keep Everton from scoring. What appeared like a certain penalty for handling was disallowed the home players, the referee after consulting the linesman, throwing the ball up. The wind greatly interfered with the game, but Sharp put in several fine runs, which, however, were neutralized by the Chesterfield backs, who did not hesitate to kick out at every possible opportunity. Occasionally the Second Leaguers broke away, causing Scott to handle, but they seldom seemed like scoring.
THE FIRST GOAL
In the second half Everton pressed almost continuously, and Settle opened the scoring after Cope bad once cleared. Having gained the lead, the home forwards were quickly busy again around the Chesterfield goal, and Young, slipping between the backs, added a second goal in good style. From this point onwards Everton were easily the superior side, and Taylor ended a long period of pressure by registering the third point with the finest shot of the afternoon. Near the finish Milnes collided with Abbott, and had to be carried off the field, but he resumed shortly afterwards.
THREE GOALS IN TEN MINUTES
Chesterfield may be complimented upon a plucky performance, and they shaped more effectively than had been generally anticipated. Defence was the most prominent part of their play, and thelr mission was evidently to prevent scoring rather than to initiate attacks themselves. Without being unduly extended, Everton gradually wore their opponents down, and the strenuous exertions of the first half created a marked effect on the visitors after the change of ends, for Everton obtained in ten minutes three goals, whereas not one could they secure during the first forty-five minutes’ struggling. In considering this tie as a battle between the Chesterfield defencers and the home forwards.  It must be admitted that the former deserve some considerable amount of credit for their performance. Cope, in goal, was especially fine, saving all manner of shots in wonderfully clever fashion, and he not only maintained but enhanced his reputation at Goodison. The full-backs kicked very sturdily: they meant clearing out the invaders, and did not affect to wait upon ceremony. They rarely made a mistake, and their vigorous tactics created a most favourable impression. Monday was in a class by himself in the forward line, for the extreme wing men were slow in getting away. In the half back division the Chesterfield trio were content to break up the advances of the Everton vanguard, and this they effectively accomplished.
SHARP'S NEW PARTNER
On the Everton side Sharp and Hardman were the pick of the forwards, the right winger being especially in evidence, and giving further proof of that consistently fine form displayed throughout the present season. Cooke, who partnered him for the first time in the premier team, commenced rather slowly, but improved as the game progressed, and gave many glimpses of real ability. Taylor and Makepeace were the pick of the home half-back division, while the backs kicked well, and Scott had little to do, especially in the later stages of the game. The result was in accordance with general opinion, but the Chesterfield defence exceeded expectations Everton. —Scott: Hill, Balmer (W): Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp. Cooke, Young, Settle, and Hardmam. Chesterfield-Cope; Marples, Baker; Haig, Milnes, Thacker; Dyal. Taylor, Gllberthorpe, Munday, Handley Referee; J. Adams, Birmingham.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 05 February 1906
The game at Goodison-park was also spoiled to a considerable extent by the gale, but the fine defence put up by the visitors, together with the fact that Everton scored three goals, made the game highly interesting. In the first half Chesterfield held their own and prevented the Blues from piercing their citadel. The spectators began to have their doubts about the result at the interval, but these were quickly dispelled when the second portion of the game was entered upon for the Everton players, who had been far superior in the opening 45, put the issue beyond doubt, Settle, Young, and Taylor scoring within ten minutes.
Although Chesterfield failed to register a goal it must be admitted that in at least two instances a little luck might have brought about the downfall of the Everton goal. In Gilberthorpe they possess a promising centre forward, and on the left wing some capital work was shown by the veteran Munday and Handley. Unfortunately for Chesterfield their halves were no match for the Everton attack, but the backs defended gallantly, and as fort Cope-the goalkeeper-he simply excelled himself. Evidently the Chesterfield management possess a happy knack of unearthing capable custodians. On the Everton side Cooke made a creditable debut as partner to Sharp, who, despite one particularly bad miss, was by far the most conspicuous forward on the field.
The draw for the third round of the English Cup took place this afternoon, with the following result;-
Everton v Bradford City
Liverpool v Brentford
Tottenham Hotspur v Birmingham
Sheffield Wednesday or Millwall v Notts Forest
Derby County or Newcastle United v Blackpool
Manchester United v Aston Villa or Plymouth Argyle
Woolwich Arsenal v Sunderland or Gainsborough
New Brompton or Southampton v Brighton and Hove or Middlesbrough
Matches to be played on the ground of the first-named on February 24th.
It is satisfactory to note that both our local clubs, Everton and Liverpool have had the good fortune to be drawn at home, so that the prospects of both appearing in the fourth round are extremely rosy, particularly as Bradford City and Brentford are unquestionably inferior in class to the respective wearers of the Red and Blue jerseys.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 06 February 1906
Everton are also at home, so that our local men will between them have played six home matches in three rounds. Truly the Liverpool clubs have been mightily favoured in the competition so far, though financially they will have to wait till the fourth round-one takes it for granted there will be no Blackpool episodes this side of the Mersey in three weeks’ time-one they make the competition anything of a real financial benefit.
Bradford City, who are due at Goodison, are a stern lot, and their performances against superior sides have been most creditable. They have Conlin to help them-an old head who gained much knowledge by rubbing shoulders with Stephen Bloomer. Both teams will safely negotiate the fence, I feel sure, but these must be no despising the opposition-it would be fatal.
On the Everton fixture card Stoke are due to be played. This will have to be rearranged.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 06 February 1906
Liverpool and Everton are again in luck’s way, and for the third round in succession both teams will be at home on the 24th. At Goodison-park the Blues will entertain Bradford City, the team which knocked out the Wolves by no fewer goals than 5 goals to nil, but Everton should account for this, the third Second Division club to be pitted against the Evertonians so far in the competition. Liverpool’s engagement with Brentford should be rather interesting, as the Southerners are evidently a capable team and likely to make the Reds go all the way. Brentford is the club which Mr. R. Molyneux, formerly of Everton, has brought rapidly to the front.
GAMBLING ON FOOTBALL RESULTS
It was reported that there had been a constant issue of football competitions and postal lotteries, and that “betting slips” on football results was distributed in some towns; also that the council’s letter to the Chief Commissioner of Police, Scotland Yard, written in December last, as to the lotteries had only been met by a formal reply that it had been referred to the Secretary of the General Post-office, “within whose jurisdiction the matter arises, and to whom all communications on the subject should be made.” The secretary was instructed to make a further application that the matter should be dealt with by the authorities, and, if necessary, that the council would endeavour to get a question put in the House of Commons, the council feeling that these matters were a serious menace to the game.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 07 February 1906
The Sheffield United Committee last night selected their team to meet at Goodison-park on Saturday, and drastic changes were made. They did not interfere with the defence, but respecting the forward line the right-wing was swept away and a new left-wing requisitioned though in the latter case it should be stated that Lipsham has broken down, his groin having weakened. Lang and Pattinson make up the right wing, and Bluff is transferred to the other side, where Bromage will be his partner. The eleven is as follows;- Leivesley, goal; Groves and Benson, backs; McCormick, B. Wilkinson, and Parker, half-backs; Lang, Pattinson, Brown, Bluff, and Bromage, forwards.
The Everton team to meet Sheffield at Goodison-park on Saturday will be;-Scott; Hill and W. Balmer; Makepeace, Taylor, Donaldson; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle and H.P Hardman. The injured players, Booth, Black and Abbott, are still unfit to turn out.
EVERTON v. GEORGE ROBEY XI
There is probably no profession which does more for the noble cause of charity than the theatrical, and no name is more prominent in that profession than Mr. Geo. Robey, who is at present appearing at the Royal Court Theatre. The Robey Charity Cup competition was instituted last season, and the initial match at Manchester against the City proved a huge success in spite of inclement weather, over being taken at the gates. This season's contest has been fixed for next Wednesday, when the Everton full League team will antagonise the holders of the cup. Mr. Robey's tea mis as follows:—McBride. (Preston North End), Crompton (Blackburn Rovers), Burgess (Manchester City), Parry, Raisbeck (Liverpool), J. T. Robertson (Chelsea), Bond (Preston North End), Bloomer (Derby C.), V. J. Woodward (Tottenham), Geo. Robey, and Booth (Manchester City).
It will be noticed that the team contains nine Internationals, and, in the opinion of many capable judges, is as strong as that chosen by the Selection Committee to do battle against Wales. The whole of the proceeds, without any deduction whatever, will be handed over to Liverpool charities, and the expenses in connection with the match are generously defrayed by Mr. Robey. One thousand autograph postcards of the Prince of Jesters will be sold on the ground, the proceeds of which will he placed to the credit of the Sandon Tug Disaster Fund. With sucha fine object in view and a really first-class exposition of the game, it is hoped that the capacious enclosure will be well filled as commensurate with the occasion. It may be mentioned that all players taking part in this match receive gold medals.

RANKIN JOINS ALBION
February 8, 1906. The Liverpool Echo
Everton will be sorry to part company with Bruce Rankin. He has been transferred to West Bromwich Albion and will play against Bristol City at the Hawthorns on Saturday. Rankin will find no difficulty in falling into the Albion style, and I prophesy for him a capital time with his new masters. Rankin has many talents, and he is sure to become popular with the Albion. An understudy to Sharp or any other consistently brilliant player is to be sympathized with; he is always a stern struggle to oust someone from the senior ranks who is morally certain to be recalled to the team, even if deposed through lost of form. Born in Everton twenty-three years ago, he helped such clubs as City Villa, St Luke's Bible Class, White Star Wanderers and Kirkdale in youthful days. He helped Jack Elliott in training, and later forced his relection for the Reserves. In 1902-03 played with the first team and in all fourteen times helped the seniors. Last season he scored against Newcastle with a goal that will long be remembered. He has represented Lancashire, has numerous medals and assisted the North versus the South at Tottenham in 1902-03.

EVERTON PLAYER TRANSFERRED
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 08 February 1906
Rankin, the reserve outside right of the Everton Club, has been transferred to West Bromwich Albion, who are strengthening their team in their endeavour to regain their position in the First Division of the League. Rankin is a capable player, and has frequently deputised for Sharp in the first team with success. He is fast and clever, and should prove a useful forward for the Albion. Rankin, who is a local, joined the Everton team as an assistant trainer, but the directors soon found that he was a clever footballer, and he was engaged as a player instead of trainer. On one occasion he played at outside left for the Everton League team. Some of the English selection committee were present at the match, and noting his abilities, Rankin was shortly afterwards picked to play for the North against the South at outside left.

EVERTON PLAYER TRANSFERRED
Feburary 9, 1906. The Liverpool Daily Post and Mercury
West Bromwich Albion have signed Bruce Rankin, the Everton Player. Born in Everton twenty-three years ago, he helped such clubs as City Villa, St Luke's Bible Christ, White Star Wanderers, and Kirkdale in Youthful days. In 1902-03 he played with the first team and in all appeared fourteen times amongst the seniors. (37 apps?) Last season he scored against Newcastle with a goal that will be remembered. He has represented Lancashire has numerous times. and assisted the North versus the South at Tottenham in 1902-03.

TEAM ARRNAGEMENTS
Liverpool Echo - Friday 09 February 1906
Everton v Sheffield United
League match at Goodison Park; kick-off 3.30
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Hill, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Donaldson, half-backs; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
United.- Leivesley, goal; Grove and Benson, backs, McCormick, Wilkinson, and Parker half-backs Lang, Patterson Brown Bluff and Bromage, forwards
Everton Reserve v Manchester United
Lancashire Combination match at Manchester ; Lime Street1; kick-off 3
Everton.- Collins, goal; Wildman and Crelly, backs; Chadwick, Wright, and Payne, half-backs; Birnie, McLoughlin, Bannister, Cooke, and Dilly, forwards.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD UNITED
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 10 February 1906
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
EVERTON LEAD AT THE INTERVAL
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Luckily for Everton’s League fixture at Goodison Park with the United, the blizzard had fairly exhausted itself, and the game was carried on under favourable conditions, except that the ground was naturally in a slippery and slushy state. The decisive victory of the Blues over the Villians a fortnight ago considerably increased confidence in the team, and the only change was the inclusion of Donaldson at left half back. Last week the United were the most notorious team in England owing to their sensational over-throw by Blackpool-form, by the way, which did not suggest a victorious visit to-day. In all, the teams have met twelve times at Everton, the Blades losing seven games, winning four, and drawing one. In the League table the Blues and the Blades are practically pegging level up to date. The weather was mild and sunny when operations commenced, and there would be about 15,000 spectators present. On the Sheffield sides Groves was an absentee, and Johnson filled the vacancy. The teams lined up in the following order;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Hill and Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Donaldson, half-backs; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Sheffield United.- Leivesley, goal; Benson and Johnson, backs; McCormick, Wilkinson (captain) and Parker, halves; Lang, Pattinson, Brown, Bluff, and Brownage, forwards.
Referee; Mr. A. Green.
The Everton skipper lost the toss, and Young kicked off facing wind and sun. Bolton and Young commenced to pass, but the latter’s swing out to Sharp went out of play. Ther throw-in saw Bluff in possession, and this player completely beat Hill. The Blades appeared to be fairly settled in Everton territory when a foul against them spoiled their chances. More passing by the Everton front rank gave Sharp an opening, and he was darting forward when he was tripped by Johnson. The free kick was taken by Sharp, the ball being cleared from the goal mouth by Wilkinson. Then Taylor was beaten, and Bromage got near enough to send a grand shot Everton way, the ball almost shaving one of the uprights. In the early stages Makepeace was prominent but Taylor made one or two bad slips, and gave the Blades several opportunities, which, however, they did not turn to account. The Blues opened out with very steady tactics, which were distinctly encouraging Hardman forced matters on his wing, and this led up to a stiff bit of pressure, which ended up with Young testing Leivesley severely. The Sheffield left then broke away and forced the first corner, but the ball was placed behind. Sharp was next prominent and he outmanoeuvred Johnson cleverly, and centring prettily forced Benson to concede a corner. This was followed by hot work in the visitors’ territory, and after Young had been fouled, Settle presented the Blades’ warden with a regular roaster. After a scrimmage in the Sheffield goalmouth, Wilkinson served his left-wingers, and after Bluff had put in a few touches Bramage sailed away and sent in a grand shot, which just topped the cross-bar. The kick-out gave relief to the Evertonians, as a fresh attack was taken up by the left wing, Lang driving the ball across the goalmouth. A lovely attack was then made by Young, Bolton and Settle, at the end of which Young dashed between the backs, but failed to net the ball, although it was a good shot. Then a new move by Hardman, Settle, and Young developed which carried the attacking party right up to the United goal, but nothing tangible ensued, the Blades having a goal kick. Young was in capital form, and he shot straight and true at Leivesley when the opportunity offered. After Bromage had been pulled up for offside. Balmer received the ball in the stomach from Pattinson, and was temporarily laid out. Hill put his side on the attack but they failed to make much headway, and Taylor was called upon to check a determined advance by the Sheffield centre, and this was followed by the home defence suffering really severe pressure. Settle received a long pass from Hill, and was ably supported by Young and Hardman, and the pressure exerted forced a grand opening, Leivesey only just succeeding in keeping one out at close quarters from Young. Sheffield remained under pressure, and Young headed a lovely centre from Sharp over the bar. The visitors were quickly at the other end, where Lang forced a corner off Balmer, and after this had been taken there was a scrimmage in the Everton goal-mouth, out of which Bolton triumphantly emerged. A pass was taken by Sharp, but he was beaten by Bromage, who subsequently sent a couple of grand shots to Scott, with one of which the goalkeeper had a little difficulty. After play in midfield, Donaldson stopped a Sheffield rush in grand fashion, but later on both Taylor and Makepeace let in the visitors. Fine play by Hill retrieved the situation, and led up to a good effort by Bolton, who, with a little more accuracy in the direction of the ball, would have beaten Leivesley all to pieces. During the ten minutes prior to the interval Everton’s footwork was particularly artistic, but unfortunately it was not of the scoring order, though on several occasions a little luck must have opened the score for the Blues. After being fouled Sharp placed the ball nicely, and Hardman let drive only to find his shot charged down. Makepeace kept the ball in play and very cleverly worked an opening for Sharp, who took deliberate aim and had the satisfaction of seeing the ball curl into the corner of the net well out of reach of the dumbfounded Sheffield custodian. Resuming, Settle and Hardman put in vigorous work, until the Sheffield left dashed off, and Balmer tripped Brown, who was in the act of shooting. A penalty kick seemed certain, but Mr. Green passed the incident over altogether. Half-time score Everton 1 goal, Sheffield United Nil.
EVERTON’S PRETTY FOOT-WORK
YOUNG SHOOTS STRAIGHT AND OFTEN
SETTLE’S MASTERLY DISPLAY
SHARP’S “HAT-TRICK.”
THE BALDES REVIVE
SENSATIONAL SECOND HALF
Restarting, sensational play very soon developed. Taylor and Makepeace prevented an inroad by the Blades, and then Sharp got in a fine run, practically unattended. Young and Settle joined in the attack, and the Sheffield defence appeared beaten all to pieces; but Benson fell down in front of Settle, and the little man’s shot was deflected. How Livesley’s charge managed to escape with a trio of Blues, all eager to score, is quite a mystery. It must have been a case of “too many cooks.” Sharp, Taylor, and Bolton continued to force the pace, but at the critical moment Young got into an offside position, the Evertonians continued to make the attack very lively. Young put in a lot of clever work, and finally sent the ball to Bolton, who evidently thought he had not a fair opening, so, by means of an overhead kick, dropped the leather at Sharp, and this lively player promptly netted the ball. Hardly had the chore which greeted this performance died away when Hardman was observed to be busy in the left-hand corner, where he soon had his opponent beaten, and an accurate centre was the next item. Young fastened on the ball, but Sharp suddenly looming up took the ball from the centre forward and put it in the net out of the reach of the goalkeeper, Sharp’s “hat trick” being rapturously applauded. Grand work by Makepeace, Bolton, and Sharp ended by the cricketer giving Leivesleydribbling feat with the leather. Then the Sheffielders forced an opening down the centre, and Brown slipped past Taylor and was making the best of his way towards Scott, when Balmer came on at full steam and robbed him, passing back to Scott to clear. The Blues were now promin their attention, and one shot from Lang was very fine. A fine long shot from Sharp forced the Sheffield warden to concede a corner, and from this the visitors scored through bluff- a very simple goal. A beautiful shot from Lang was ably disposed of by Scott at the expense of a corner, and the Blades worked hard to score again Scott having to run out to clear. Sheffield put in some clever work and quite puzzled the home defence. Balmer misjudged a swift pass from Lang, Brown trapping the leather beautifully and giving Scott no chance netted beautifully. Sharp limped badly in the latter stages, and the light became very bad.
Final Result Everton 3 goals, Sheffield United 2
Last season Everton 2, Sheffield United 0

MANCHESTER UNITED v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 10 February 1906
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV 1
At Clayton. The United pressed at the start, and Robertson scored for them after five minutes’ play. McLoughlin shot wide with only the custodian in front. Duckworth missed a penalty for United. Everton pressed, but were weak in front of goal. At the other end Collins saved some capital shots, Crelly also thinning in defence. The United were having the best of matters. Half-time score; United 1 Everton Nil
Final- Manchester United 2, Everton R nil.

EVERTON 3 SHEFFIELD UNITED 2
February 12, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S NARROW VICTORY.
PLUCKY DISPLAY BY UNITED.
Everton not only had the satisfaction of drawing the biggest League “gates” of the day but of securing a welcome victory. At the same time the two points were not forthcoming without an anxious five minutes in the closing stages of a hard fought struggle. At one period. Everton seemed to have the game well in hand, put a surprising exhibition of pluck on the part of Sheffield United considerably altered the outlook, and in the end the Evertonians were struggling hard to prevent an equalising goal. Still all's well that ends well. Victory undoubtedly rested with the better side, but the encounter only served to show the truth of the old adage that the game is never lost until it is won. Sheffield United, though represented by a team, which contained several new faces, evidently determined to make amends, if possible, for the previous week's disaster at Bramell-lane, where Blackpool unexpectedly threw them out of the English Cup competition.
SHARP'S HAT TRICK.
The fact that in the first half United were favoured by the sun and the high wind was no means advantage to them and they made not a few clever efforts to open the score. Fortunately the Everton defence did not falter, and all the well-meant attacks of the Blades came to nought. Meanwhile Everton van-guard were by no means idle, and there was an agreeable exhibition of dash about their movements which augured well for them when ends were changed. Bolton on one occasion missed by inches only with a capital shot, and then when the opening half promised to be fruitless in the matter of goals a nice sequenced of passes led to Sharp banging in the ball at express speed for the leather to glide into the net off one of the United defenders. The Sheffielders might have been granted penalty for a foul on Brown, but the infringement, if such it was allowed to pass by the referee. When they had the wind behind them Everton soon settled down, and in less than a quarter of an hour Sharp had earned the distinction of accomplishing the “Hat-trick” on the football field. In each instance grand work by Hardman led to the points toward which first Young and then Bolton materially assisted. With a three goals' lead Everton's position appeared to be perfectly secure, but the reorganised Sheffield Brigade were in no way disheartened. Instead they rose to the occasion in a manner which compelled admiration, though Everton were somewhat handicapped by Sharp's leg giving way. Their first goal was headed through from a corner by Bluff, and during a period of temporary slackness on the part of the Everton defence, Brown was responsible for a really clever second goal. After this Everton had to fight had to retain their lead, and it was a relief to not a few of their followers when the whistle blew with Everton victorious by the narrow margin of three goals to two.
THE PLAYERS.
Of course the feature of the game was Sharp's success in the scoring line. It is given to few outside forwards in first League football to credit himself with three goals, but each one was thoroughly deserved. Apart from this the speedy winger was always in evidence until he was injured. He had too, in Bolton a partner after his own heart. Indeed, the Newcastle recruits has already become quite a favourites with the Goodison-park crowd. A hard worker he plays with fine judgement, and has adapted himself beautifully to Sharp's style. Young was more like his old self, and the left wing Settle and Hardman were for the most part clever and effective in their methods. Makepeace and Taylor were as usual full of resource, while Donaldson though scarcely up to the League standard of the half-backs, made a creditable first appearance. Hill and W.Balmer put in many neat touches and Scott kept a good goal, though he has given better displays between the upright. As to the Sheffield team Wilkinson at centre half was perhaps the most conspicuous member, Brown had few opportunities of distinguishing himself, Bromage and Lang, the outside forwards worked hard, but Johnson a reserve back, was no match for Sharp, and Bolton. Teams. Everton: - Scott goal, Hill, and W.Balmer, backs, Makepeace Taylor (Captain), and Donaldson half-backs, Sharp Bolton, Young, Settle and Hardman forwards. Sheffield United: - Leivesley goals, Benson, and Johnson backs, McCormick, Wilson, and Parker half-backs Lang, Patterson Brown Bluff and Bromage, forwards, Referee I.Green.

MANCHESTER UNITED RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
January 12, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 26)
For the third week in succession Everton, had two goals scored against them, and for the third time were defeated. These reverses have had the effect of completely altering their position in the table and instead of being at the top of the Combination they are now behind Accrington Stanley, St.Helens Rec, and Manchester United. Against the latter club on Saturday they failed to rise to the occasion and were beaten by two clear goals. The ground was in a wretched condition, and as the home players adapted themselves to the prevailing state of things more than did their visitors, they could claim a decided advantage nearly all through. Indeed, but for splendid defensive work on the part of Collins in goal, and Crelly and Wildman at back, the victory of the Manchester players could have been much more pronounced. Collins a difficult task all through his work in clever fashion. United put on a goal in each half, and in addition failed to score from a penalty kick. The forward work of the visitors was but moderate, and the Manchester defenders had a fairly easy time. As stated, Everton were finely served by the defence. The halves were uneven, Wright being the pick, while Birnie and McLaughlin were the best of a moderate forward line. Everton: - Collins, Wildman, and Crelly backs, Chadwick, Wright, and Payne half-backs, Birnie McLoughlin, Bannister, Cooke, and Dilly, forwards .

EVERTON'S IMPROVEMENT
Athletic News - Monday 12 February 1906
By Junius
Everton are showing improved form in their recent games, and I fancy they will make creditable display in the Cup-ties.  As regards their League prospects, they can only hope to gain a medium position, but much of their future success depends upon the way they shape in this ensuning rounds of the F.A. tourney.  This, in my opinion accounts for their offering such a big inducement to Chesterfield in the second series of ties; and, looking at the matter from the club's point of view, there seems more than passing support for their action.  Their forward line, as constituted at present, is the best the club possess, and the introduction of Bolton as partner to Sharp has effected a great improvement.  I fancy Everton will come on now, for they have been below form during the greater part of the season, and they are too clever a team not to assert themselves sometime.  Booth and Abbott are far from fit, and young Balmer will not be available for a week or two.   

EVERTON’S NARROW VICTORY     
Athletic News - Monday 12 February 1906
By Junius
Despite the wintry weather the ground at Goodison on the occasion of the visit of Sheffield United was in capital condition, though naturally soft, but I Question if any other enclosure in the kingdom could have withstood the changes so effectually as the Everton ground. After half-an hour's play it was not quite so verdant as it appeared prior to the commencement, but there could be little cause tor grumbling. At no period did the game reach an interesting level, and for the greater part of the time there was never any question to the ultimate issue. In the closing stages some degree of excitement was gendered by the dual success of the United, who hitherto had been three goals in arrears. With the possibility of a draw the concluding portion of the struggle was viewed with a keener feeling.
EVERTON TAKE THE LEAD
Though Everton led by a goal at the interval they were rather fortunate in so doing, for just before the whistle blew for half-time it appeared as If Brown was deliberately brought down in the penalty area. This incident passed unnoticed by the referee, and the goal obtained by Sharp, after smart work on the left wing, was the only legitimate point recorded at breathing time, and even then a Sheffield back helped the ball along.
A ROUSINGF FINISH
During this early period, Everton had been faced by a stiff breeze, but on turning round they quickly demonstrated their appreciation of the change. As a result of neat passing between Hardman and Settle, the latter tipped the ball over to Young, who promptly sent across to Sharp, and the right - winger, who appeared to be off side, sent the leather into the net. By this success, Everton were practically saved from defeat, and when a moment later, Sharp again beat Leivesley, from Hardman's centre, after the amateur had deftly beaten Benson, the issue appeared beyond all doubt. These reverses did not deter the United, and from a corner kick, Bluff headed past Scott. While a centre from McCormick was converted by Brown shortly afterwards. Then came the most inspiriting part of the day’s proceedings, for there was more than a chance of the visitors drawing level. They failed, and were finally beaten by the odd goal in five.
JACK SHARP, THE SHOOTER
Considering the adverse conditions under which the game was played, the men deserve credit That Everton were the superior can scarcely be gainsaid, and it is probable that the fact of being three goals ahead caused them to relax their efforts, after which the visitors adroitly took matters into their own hands. Of the Everton forwards, Settle was the most effective. Their light vanguard felt the effects of the sodden turf in second half, and taking everything into account, they may be said to have fared as effectively as could have been expected. No one stood out very prominently, but Sharp, who obtained goals, was always in evidence, and made the most of the chances he secured. Bolton put in several clever touches, and Young played better than in recent games. Hardman likewise displayed smart work at times, and there was a general evenness which kept the Sheffield defence well employed.  In the half back line Donaldson, a debutant, did himself Justice, and certainly shaped like a more experienced Leaguer.  He is not averse to forcing matters, and keeps well in touch with his forwards, while at the same time preserving a reliable defence. His exhibition was promising. The performances of Taylor and Makepeace left little to be desired, the former being very prominent in baffling the Sheffield advances. Brown could rarely elude his attentions. Balmer was the more effective of the backs, his kicking being powerful and splendidly timed.  Scott was rarely requisitioned, and the shots which beat him were completely out of his reach. For three-fourths of the game his position was a sinecure, and the fact that two were put pest him in the closing stages is no reflection on his ability.  Similarly on the Sheffield side there was no outstanding figure, and their best work was witnessed when the result of the contest was virtually settled.  Brown worked hard at centre, and gave his wings some pretty passes, but he was eclipsed by the excellence of Taylor.  Lang was often dangerous, and centred very smartly from difficult positions, while Bluff and Bromage constituted a capital left wing.  The latter in the early stages of the play created a favourable impression, for he showed a capital idea of the location of the goal.  Behind the front line, Parker performed capably, and Wilkinson was a rear worker.  The latter was an adept in realizing the situation at a glance, and the second goal was largely due to the clever manner in which he placed the ball to Lang.  At full back Benson kicked cleanly, and Johnson showed signs of more than ordinary ability against the strongest, part of the Everton attack.  Leivesley completed a satisfactory defence.  Everton; Scott; Hill, Balmer (W.); Makepeace, Taylor, Donaldson; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.  Sheffield United; Leivesley; Benson, Johnson; McCormick, Wilkinson (B.), Parker; Lang, Pattinson, Brown, Bluff, and Bromage.  Referee; A. Green, West Bromwich. 

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD UNITED
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Monday 12 February 1906
UNITED JUST LOSE
United made radical changes in their team which went to Liverpool on Saturday. Needham and Johnson were still away, and Lipsham was also an absentee. The forward line contained only Brown; and Bluff of the ordinary side. McCormick was introduced into the half-back line, and Johnson, of the Reserves, same in in place of Groves. Benson changed over to right back, and Johnson took the left position. For Everton, Donaldson made his first appearance in First League football. Abbott was still absent, and Bolton resumed his place.
United won the toss, and got well through at the start. Brown passed Lang, but Scott cleared the final shot. After some midfield play Leivesley had to run out 30 yards to clear. Everton were showing better football, their passing being marked by excellent judgment. Bromage spoiled a fine chance by getting off-side, while Sharp was noticeable for a fine centre, which was only cleared by Johnson kicking behind. The visitors’ combination seemed to be their weak point. A free kick to Everton right on the penalty line was dangerous, but Benson assisted Leivesley to get rid of it, and United for a time did better. Settle and Hardman between them were very dangerous, but Leivesley was very smart, and cleared well. Settle was rather too smart for Wilkinson, and got right up to Leivesley, but the centre-half, coming up smartly, kicked away. Half-time was fast approaching, with each side holding their own fairly well.  Just before the interval the left wing gave some trouble. For a minute or two play remained in midfield, but Everton gradually made their way down, and finally a nice pass from Makepeace resulted in Young finding the net. The shot was one which under ordinary circumstances would have presented no difficulties to Leivesley, but his sight was spoiled by intervening players. . At half-time Everton led by a goal to nothing.
Immediately after the resumption Sharp received, and passed the ball to Settle. This player missed an easy chance of scoring. Helped by the wind, Everton attacked. At the other end a strong attack was made on the Everton goal. Brown and Bluff were particularly prominent, but the former was brought down when in the act of shooting within the ten yards’ range. An appeal for a penalty was disregarded. Everton returned to the attack, and Settle tipped the ball Young, who passed to Sharp, and that player scored the second goal. A moment later Hardman smartly got the better of a tussle with Benson, and, sending across Sharp, the right-winger driving the ball into the net. United, in spite of big margin against them, stuck to their work, and after half an hour’s play they pressed a corner. The kick was well placed, and Bluff scored. Everton returned, and Young hit the upright, but Scott at the other end had clear from Lang. Brown got well to a centre from McCormick, and gave United their second’ goal. They tried hard to equalise, but the final score was:Everton 3 goals, Sheffield United 2
Last season; Everton 2, Sheffield United 0

SHEFFIELD UNITED’S EXPERIMENT
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Monday 12 February 1906
By Looker-On
Sheffield United’s experiment with a new team on Saturday was by no means attended with the disaster many people had confidently expected. Everton beat them by the odd goal in five, after having, within twenty minutes of the end of the game led by three goals. The score is a fair index of the merits of the game. Everton were certainly a goal the better team, but this was all; and their advantage was mostly accounted for by the fact that the visitors lacked the combination which more experience of play together will give them. Altogether, the game was a pleasant one, and if incidents of great excitement were missing, the game was never dull. For one thing the ground was in fine condition, favouring fast and open play. The home team were just a shade the stronger in the opening half, but the United forwards provided some anxious moments for the Everton defence, and an even score at the cross-over would have fairly represented the balance of strength. The opening stages of the second half provided the crux of the game, for here Sharp proved almost irresistible, and with assistance from Bolton and Young gave a deal of trouble. The last quarter of an hour saw United rapidly assert superiority, and a third goal should certainly have come from one of the numerous corners the home backs were forced to concede. Individually the United players gave a fine exhibition of football, the forwards particularly giving a good account of themselves. Bromage, on the left wing, sent in some really excellent centres, and one or two shots at goal from the touch-line deserved to score. Brown and Bluff were in fine form, and the others did well. The halves kept a good control of the game, and except for the few minutes, when Everton secured their second and third goals, the backs were very sound. Leivesley made one or two fine saves and the goals against him really gave him no chance.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD UNITED
Sheffield Independent - Monday 12 February 1906
(By our Own Correspondent)
After their recent displays one would have thought that the visit of Sheffield United to Goodison Park would not have proved much of an attraction, but as it turned out between 18,000 and 20,000 people were present to witness the match. The United made several changes. Groves was not fit, so Benson crossed over to the right wing, allowing Johnson to play left full back. In the front rank Lang came in again at outside right, vice Donnelly, and Pattinson officiated at inside right. Owing to Lipsham being on the injured list, Bromage was given a trial at outside left, with Bluff as his partner. Thus, with the exception of Brown in the centre, the front rank was altogether changed. On the Everton side Abbott was an absentee owing to injury, and Donaldson made his first appearance in League football, whilst Bolton, who was not eligible for the cup ties, resumed as Sharp’s partner. The ground was in capital order considering the recent heavy rain, and the weather was beautifully fine, though a strong wind blew from goal to goal. Bernard Wilkinson won the toss, and the United had the advantage of the breeze at the start. In the first minute Hilla made a bad mistake and let Brown in, but Lang made no use of a good pass, whilst another attack fizzled out. Charlie Johnson then brought Hardman down outside the penalty line, but the free kick was put to no good use. The game was fast and interesting, with little to choose between the two teams. A neat bit of play by Bluff let Bromage in, and the latter made a rattling good attempt to score, the ball going only a shade wide. The Sheffielders put plenty of dash into their play, and Bluff was responsible for some beautiful passes, but Balmer and Makepeace were grand in defence. Everton next had a turn, but fine work by Benson and McCormick drove them back. The first corner of the match fell to the visitors. Lang swung the ball across to Bromage, whose shot was turned behind by a defender. Next Sharp shot across, and McCormick had to give a corner to stop Hardman, following which Hill sent over from long range. The United defence was then in trouble owing to a free kick against them near the penalty line, but Leivesley saved. The Sheffielders were persistent and energetic, whilst Bluff played superbly at inside left. From one of his passes Bromage dropped the ball on the bar, and a little later Lang shot hard across, but the ball touched one of his own side and went behind. Everton, however, were showing capital form, and following good work by Settle, Young was given an opening, but he shot wide. A minute later Settle got through, but Leivesley saved smartly, and just now the home team were having the best of matters. Bluff and Brown got the ball away, and a neat pass by the former set Bromage going, but he was pulled up for off-side when nicely on his ay for goal- a bad decision. Settle had to retire for a minute or two and whilst he was off Balmer was winded as the result of stopping a terrific shot from Lang. George Waller, in the absence of the Everton trainer, attended to Balmer, and as he resumed Settle re-appeared. For some time the home backs were kept busy defending, but at length, as the result of a bout of delightful passing, Everton got to close quarters and should have scored, but Bernard Wilkinson dropped back and cleared from close in. next Sharp got clean away, and Young missed a good opening from his centre. After a fierce attack the Sheffielders once more had a look in, Scott pulling the ball down from an awkward shot by Bromage, and it rebounded behind off Pattinson, the last-named directly after heading into Scott’s hands. Bromage was evidently in pain as the result of a blow from the ball, but kept on pluckily. At length Everton opened the scoring, a shot from Sharp hitting some other player and rebounding into the net. Young was standing very near Leivesley, who was in consequence unsighted, but the appeal for offside was not entertained. The Sheffielders were in no way disheartened, and pretty play by Bluff and Brown saw Taylor outwitted, and going on Brown worked his way between the two backs, and had the goal at his mercy. Just as he was in the act of kicking, however, he was brought down badly from behind, but the United players’ unanimous appeal for a penalty was not entertained. The referee would probably be the only man on the field who did not see what had taken place. Half-time was called directly after, with Everton lucky to hold the lead.
Everton started the second half in fine style. Sharp at once got clean away on the wing, and had no one to beat but Leivesley, but somehow his shot was stopped. Even then Settle, from close in, missed a ridiculously easy chance-a very narrow escape. However, only a few minutes had elapsed when they put on their second goal. Hardman put the ball back to Bolton, who instead of shooting sent it back to Sharp, who was stood apparently well offside. He easily beat Leivesley, and the point was allowed to count. A minute or two later Hardman got the better of a bout with Benson, and sending the ball across to Sharp the latter scored a fine goal with a grand shot. Everton were making good use of the wind, and now appeared to have the game well won. After two fine centres by Sharp had gone astray Brown all but got through for United, Makepeace just getting up in time to kick the ball behind for a corner. Play became more even, Lang at one end skimming the bar with a good shot and Sharp forcing an unproductive corner at the other. The visitors by dint of great perseverance and dash gradually gained the upper hand, Wilkinson, Parker, and McCormick worked untiringly, and with the aid of Benson and Johnson, had worn their opponents down. Now came the Sheffielders’ turn. Lang swung the ball across, and in trying to clear Hill gave a corner. The flag kick was beautifully placed by Bromage and Bluff headed through -a pretty effort. Another corner directly after was nicely placed, but the defence this time prevailed. A burst by Everton saw Young put in a fine shot, the ball hitting one of the uprights and rebounding into play. The visitors were soon attacking again, and a beautiful effort by Lang saw Scott just tip the ball over the bar as it seemed to be sailing into the far corner-a fine save. Bromage again placed the ball well from the flag kick, but this time Bluff headed over instead of under the bar. The Sheffielders were playing very well indeed, and the Everton defenders had many anxious moments. Scott had to rush out and clear from another centre by Lang, but he was beaten shortly afterwards. McCormick got the ball, and rounding Donaldson, had Balmer in trouble with a fast, low centre. Brown nipped in, trapped the ball, and flashed it into net Scott powerless. Following a free kick to United. McCormick had a good shot charged down, whilst a terrific centre from Bromage struck one of the Everton defenders in the stomach, and winded him. With Sharp limping, the Everton attack was easily mastered, and play for a time ruled in the home half. A shot from visitors right wing saw Scott carry the ball behind for a corner, and from Bromage’s flag kick Scott cleared cleverly. The Everton forwards caused a diversion, Leivesley giving a corner in dealing with a long, awkward, dropping shot, but the flag kick was not improved upon. In the closing stages the Everton men repeatedly kicked the ball out on the visitors’ left wing at length coming to their relief and leaving them victorious by the odd goal in five.
After allowing that Everton had the more chances of scoring, the United were decidedly unfortunate in not bringing away at least a point, for even conceding that each of Everton’s goals were good ones (and there is great doubt about at least one), the Sheffielders should have been awarded a penalty kick. There was a marked change in the work of the United front rank. Lang showed capital form, and got the ball across well. Pattinson was evidently a bit nervous at the first appearance, but though he did not combine well he showed plenty of luck, and never let his opponents have a free kick if he could get near. Brown opened out the game well, and was more thrustful than in some previous matches; whilst Bromage gave a capital display at outside left. But the star performer was certainly Bluff. In his new position the ex-soldier fed both his wing and centre man in delightful fashion, and occasionally swung the ball out to the right wing. Bernard Wilkinson played better than for some time past, being very strong in defence. Parker did not start well, but improved considerably as the game progressed, and finished in good style; whilst McCormick did well, and has evidently the making of a fine player in him. Benson got through a lot of work in good style, and Johnson, considering the wing opposed to him, made a favourable appearance. Leivesley had no chance with the shots that scored, and kept a good goal. For Everton, Scott did capital work in goal. Balmer played finely at full back, but Hill made one or two bad mistakes. Makepeace was the best of the middle division. Young and Settle did some clever work forward, but most of the danger came from Sharp, who was in fine form until near the close. The score was;- Everton 3 goals Sheffield United 2 goals.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Hill and Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Donaldson, half-backs; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Sheffield United.- Leivesley, goal; Benson and Johnson, backs; McCormick, Wilkinson (captain), and Parker, half-backs; Lang, Pattinson, Brown, Bluff, and Bromage, forwards.
Referee Mr. A. Green.

UNITED’S RETURN TO FORM
Sheffield Independent - Monday 12 February 1906
Though Sheffield United lost at Goodison Park (writers our own reporter), the directors of the Bramall Lane club have every reason to be satisfied with the display given by a team lacking the services of such players as Groves, Needham, Johnson, Donnelly, Drake, and Lipsham. There was much more of the old United spirit about the play than has been seen during the past two weeks, and if only this spirit can be maintained United will reach a fair position in the League table. I would not go so far as to say that Saturday’s team is good enough at present to represent Sheffield United, but the persistence, dash, and energy of the players was a welcome change from the lethargic efforts recently witnessed. It says much for the pluck and perseverance of the players that after finding themselves three goals behind soon after the commencement of the second half, they bucked up in such a fashion as to almost draw level. They lasted better than Everton, and the Goodison park crowd heaved a sigh of thankfulness that could almost be felt when the whistle went for time. It was a capital performance and had it not been for what I consider a couple of very bad mistakes by the referee, the score would have been Sheffield United 3, Everton 2. I don’t mean to say they deserved to win on the general run of the play, but they were value for a draw.

EVERTON v. SHEFFIELD UNITED.
Sporting Life - Monday 12 February 1906
Last Year.—Everton, 2; Sheffield United,0.
Played at Goodison Park, in fine, mild weather, before 16,000 spectators. Young kicked off, but the ball was soon worked into Everton territory, Bromage just shot wide of the upright. Then Hardman was conspicuous with some fine play, and sending across to Young, the latter tested Leivesley, who cleared in good style. Play was transferred to the other end, where Bromage sent over, and then the Everton forwards broke away, but Young failed with a capital effort. The home team kept up the attack, and again Young tested Leivesley, but the latter was equal to the occasion. Then Sharp opened the scoring for Everton with a shot far out of the reach of Leivesley.
Half-time:—Everton 1 Sheffield United, 0.
Early in the second half Everton appeared certain to score, but the visitors cleared cleverly. However, the homesters kept up the pressure, and from a pass by Bolton, Sharp put on a second, and the same player directly afterwards added a third. Then the visitors, by the aid of Bluff, scored their first point, and later Brown put on second. Result:—Everton. 3: Sheffield United, 2
Everton.—Scott: Balmer and Hill; Makepeace. Taylor, (captain) and Donaldson; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and H P Hardman.
 Sheffield United.—Leivesey; Johnson and Benson; McCormick, Wilkinson (captain), and Parker; Lang, Pattinson, Brown, Bluff, and Bromage. Referee. Mr A Green.

SHARP’S CAPITAL SCORING PERFORMANCE ON SATURDAY
Liverpool Echo - Monday 12 February 1906
Bee
Sandwiched between the three notabilities on Saturday, the game at Goodison gave me many exciting moments, Tyldesley, the Lancashire cricketer, and Willie Quaife, the Warwickshire midget, were behind me, and in front of me the mascot, who was snugly wrapped in swaddling rugs, and whose care was attended to by three gentlemen. John Sharp must have known that his clubmate’s critical eye was upon him, for he performed as he had never done before, I believe gaining three goals off his own bat, so the speak. We have known Kack o’ Both Codes perform the “hat-trick” with the smaller ball for the benefit of the Lancashire C.C.C., and now, for the first time I think, he has performed the “hat trick” with the big ball. It is a great feat for an outside right, and was thoroughly deserving of the round of applause received when the deed was done. The selection committee “must of necessity seriously consider his claims for internationals. He has merited at least one, and I am still of opinion that in country matches he is preferable to Bond, clever as the latter is.
Sheffield United were at one time three niches in arrears, and yet they stuck to their guns with indomitable pluck, and fired away with regularity till, first, the ex-Southampton forward, Bluff, and, later, Brown pierced the charge so ably guarded by Scott. Much of the credit of these two checking goals was the outcome of another cricketer-footballer. Bernard Wilkinson. This little lump of sturdiness never knows defeat, and for a young fellow his generalship is highly creditable. To follow Needham’s footsteps is a mighty matter yet the deputy could not have done better. Likewise Taylor, “Jock” did a lot of breaking-up, even if at times his passing was beneficial to the opposing side. When United were keeping the spectators in an agonising state during the last fifteen  minutes, Taylor showed his brain power by attempting to open the game out by means of long punts. Others of the side played the “all defence” game and cramped their play, so that the visitors were too frequently allowed to centre themselves solely on attack. There were many cases of temporary illness. Settle had to leave the field for a while, Balmer was winded, Makepeace was kicked on the hip, and Sharp, after centring accurately, cricked his knee again, and was merely a passenger in the last twenty minutes. The serious thing about the outside right was that he did not give forth the brilliance of previous weeks yet was inclined to draw towards the goalmouth, and that is why he was among the goal scorers. Overhead kicking is one of Bolton’s strong points, and it was by this kick of kick that the second goal was registered. When experienced you will find the trio on the right-outside and inside right and right half-will make a high mark in the football world. All the forwards were in tip-top form, and I was particularly gratified with Young. In every phase it was his best display this season. His oblique cross passes and manoeuvring were well timed, and his shooting showed a great improvement. Donaldson is a barrier-looking half, and he harassed Lang and Pattison. He stands 6ft in height, and requires a smartening up before he will prove a capital exponent. His great need, I fancy, is to increase his speed. There was an unusual attraction on the part of the referee. He was kind enough to take off his cost when the Everton back was injured and place it is the muddy turf so that Balmer might not catch cold. It was a very humans action, and the crowd recognised it. The notion of the Sheffield trainer in attending Balmer was also deserving of favourable position. Elliott was at the time engaged with Settle.
The course mighty easily have been three all. Brown, with his bandaged thumb and ankle pads, once went dashing through in his own conclusive style, and as one of the backs charged him the other swept his legs from under him. It was a distant penalty, but the referee filed to notice it. Balmer was the better back, being sound, whereas Hill made one weak orphan kicking.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 12 February 1906
The weather conditions which prevailed on Saturday were all against good football, most of the game being played on extremely heavy ground, whilst either hail, rain, or sleet added greatly to the discomfiture of the players. In Liverpool the conditions were much better than in any other place, and the Everton match drew the largest crowd of the day. What is also very satisfactory is the fact that Everton showed hood form, especially forward, and succeeded in gaining two valuable points. The victory was not gained without a hard struggle, and most of the spectators did not breathe freely until the final whistle blew. It looked as though Everton were going to win easily when Sharp notched the third goal, but in the last quarter of an hour, with the Blues perhaps easing up a bit, the Sheffielders took possession, so to speak, and before the crowd realised what had happened the visitors were within a point of the home score. Anyway Everton was the top dog at the finish, and their supporters are satisfied not only with the two points, but by the manner in which the valuable notches were gained. The forwards seem to be getting into excellent form. Bolton’s inclusion evidently having worked wonders. It was a great day for the right wing, Bolton serving Sharp like a master, and, of course, the little cricketer only wants opportunities and he will get goals, of it is at all possible. This was evidenced against the United, when the outside man delighted the 18,000 spectators by scoring three brilliant goals. Jack Sharp is in great form this season, and now that Bolton has proved such an able partner, we may expect plenty of goals from the feet of the right wing pair. The other wing, and the centre also, played a good game, and it was mainly owing toe excellent work by Hardman that two of the goals were registered, whilst Young gave Sharp a beautiful pass, from which a goal was obtained. The Everton supporters will be delighted if the players go on improving as they have done of late.

TEAMS FOR TO-MORROW’S CHAIRTY ENCOUNTER
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 13 February 1906
Bee
When I tell you I want for the second time to the boudoir of the Queen of Hearts and Trats at the Court Theatre yesterday you may ask me, “Well, wot ov it?” Simply this, my reader; It was with the idea of learning more of the Robey Charity Cup match, which takes place at Goodison tomorrow, commencing at 2.45. George Robey was at the time of my entering still engaged on the work of the match, and no one knows save those who have been connected with charity how multifarious are the duties and cares.
These weigh lightly on Robey, and he can truly say, “Alone I did it,” for he has done the whole of the work entailed, no committee being formed to fuss about and, perhaps, hamper the cause. With upturned sleeves Robey was attaching his signature to the picture postcards which will be sold on the ground, and the receipts from this source given to the Tug Disaster Fund. A reproduction of the postcard is here given. As he duly signed these cards he made a carpet of them in order that the ink might dry, and a real effective carpet they made. Fifteen hundred have been signed. In former bad times people who have been led to expect first teams put in the field in the matter of charity matches have been disappointed when the players turned out to find a mixture of first and second members. As stated before the Everton Club have chosen the full possible strength, and are keen on beating the opposition which consists of internationals.
It must have been apparent to the spectators on Saturday that Jack Sharp was badly injured so it will occasion no surprise that he will not play; also that Hardman, who has injured his shoulder, finds himself unable to play, Grundy taking in place. Otherwise the team will be the usual one, and as only two changes are announced on the Robey side matters are nicely levelled up. Crompton and V. Woodward are the absentees, and from a letter from the Tottenham crack one would gather that he will be kept out of the football field, for a month or more. Two able deputies have been chosen. A lot in a little is Lot Jones, the Manchester City centre forward and Welsh international. It will be curious to see how he shapes against Alec Raisbeck. For Crompton, Morris of Derby County, is to play. That Robey is doing everything possible to show the Liverpool public that his side is to be what he claimed for it and composed as he has stated it will be, is demonstrated by the telegrams from the players on his side, who will by the way, be clad in a jersey of orange and lemon-coloured stipes. Each player has telegraphed that he is “certain” to play, and. More than that adds the hope that they will win. The Liverpool players wired, “Certain to play. Always pleased to help a charity worker like yourself.” Others expressed satisfaction with the honour conferred on them by selection. All of which goes to forecast that the football will he of the best. One of the linesmen is Jack carlin, the Nottingham cricketer and umpire. He taught the comedian all the cricket talents he has acquired. Incidentally, there was an addition to the subscription list which hangs in the comedian’s room. It came from “One of the Unemployed,” and consisted of a cheque for a guinea.
The teams chosen are as follow;-
Everton.- Scott; Hill and W. Balmer; Booth, Taylor, and Makepeace; A.N. Other, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Grundy.
Robey’s Internationals.- McBride (Preston); Morris (Derby County) and Burgess (Manchester City); Parry (Liverpool), Raisbeck (Liverpool), and Robertson (Chelsea); Bond (Preston), Bloomer (Derby), Jones (Manchester City), George Robey (Millwall), and Booth (Manchester City).
Roll up in your thousands.

GEORGE ROBEY’S MATCH
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 14 February 1906
GREAT CONTEST AT GOODISON
TO ASSIST LOCAL CHARITIES
EVERTON v.  ROBERY’S XI
GEORGE SCORES FIRST GOAL
SETTLE EQUALISES
GREAT COMEDIAN AMUSES THE CROWD
EVERTON BEATEN BY FIVE GOALS TO TWO
With the laudable object of assisting local charities Mr. George Robey, who is at present appearing in pantomime in Liverpool, arranged the above interesting fixture for decision at Goodison Park this afternoon. George Robey is almost as well-known in the football arena as in theatrical circles, and it is safe to say that had he not been a successful comedian he would have won fame as a footballer. The team opposed to Everton today included ten international and local interest in the game, both from a sporting and charitable view, was accrued. Ideal weather favoured the proceedings, and there were 5,000 spectators present when the teams faced in the following order;
Everton.- Scott; Hill and Crelly; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Makepeace; Birnie, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Grundy.
Robey’s International.- McBride (Preston); Morris (Derby County), and Burgess (Manchester City); Parry (Liverpool), Raisbeck (Liverpool), and Robertson (Chelsea); Bond (Preston), Bloomer (Derby), Jones (Manchester City), George Robey (Millwall), and Booth (Manchester City).
Everton won the toss, and Jones commenced for Robey’s Eleven, in the face of a brilliant ran. The opening moves favoured the “Blues” and from a pass from Young, Birnie sent in a shot which finished wide of the posts. After Settle and Bolton had failed to make headway owing to the attention of Morris, Jones placed the leather nicely for Bond, who was given offside. A moment later, however, the Preston flier put in a fine centre which Donaldson partially cleared with his head, and Raisbeck returned the leather at a rapid rate along the ground, when Hill diverted the ball and granted an abortive corner. Following this, the Blues took up the attack in earnest and occupied the visitors’ territory. During this time Birnie from Bolton’s pass, put in a fine oblique shot, which struck the corner of the post. Everton maintained their position adjacent to McBride’s charge and Taylor compelled the custodian to use his best efforts to avert defeat. Young, a moment later, put in a clever shot, which was just sailing into the net, when McBride flung himself at the leather and just managed to divert its course, thereby granting a corner, which proved abortive. Robey’s team now took up the argument, and Hill was distinctly lucky to clear his lines after a miskick. Everton were, however, soon operating in their opponents’ territory, and Taylor finished a clever movement with a really fine attempt, which McBride caught near the corner of the net. After a spell of midfield work the international right wing gave the spectators a taste of their quality, racing along at lightning speed. Crelley, however, stood in the say, and administered a timely check. Bond and Bloomer speedily returned to the attack, and the Preston player put in a glorious centre.
ROBERY SCORES
Jones shot in, and Scott came out to save, but he rather misjudged the ball, and Robey, dashing up, reasted the leather into the net, amidst terrific cheering. That the popular comedian should be the first to scorewas quite in accordance with the fitness of things, and even the Evertonians smiled at his success. Following upon this the Goodison Park men pressed rather persistently, and Young had a class goal before him when he shot weakly outside. Bloomer and Bond showed pretty and effective footwork, as the result of which Jones was given an excellent opening, when the City men headed yards over the bar. Grundy next forced an opposing down the home left and finished with an accurate centre, from which Bolton compelled McBride to handle. Jones got the best of a tussle with Hill for possession and passed out to Booth, who ran to the corner, where his final centre was charged down by Hill. Exchanges in midfield occupied the next few minutes and then Burgess punted to safe quarters when danger threatened from the advancing Everton forwards. Robey’s forwards next took up the attack. After Robey had failed to trap the leather, Booth sent in a fine shot from an extreme position which Scott fisted clear. From this the Everton forwards again assumed the aggressive and Settle obtained possession near the centre line. The popular Everton player dribbled with characteristic skill to within a few feet of McBride, and then steadying himself made the score equal with a shot which gave the Preston custodian no chance of saving. A spell of long passing followed, but was unproductive. Bond tried hard to work his way through, but he was very cleverly outmancurved by Donaldson, who cleared with great cleverness. The international however, returned to the attack and Burgess put in a magnificent long drive which struck the upright, Robey, who was close up, caught the rebound but his shot went wide. Play ruled even for a time, and then Bond was again successful in an attempt to beat Scott. A breakaway by Everton looked promising and from a pass by Taylor, Birnie put in a fast rising shot, which McBride caught in his arms and threw clear. Bloomer passed out to Robey, but the latter was much too slow to take possession. Makepeace easily beat the comedian, but the Everton forwards failed to get away from the pass. Bloomer and Bond were repeatedly responsible for clever and effective work, and as the result of one brilliant movement, Bond forced Crelly to grant a corner, which proved unproductive. Raisbeck next lobbed the ball right into the goalmouth, but Scott threw clear. A clever bit of individual work by Settle was not appreciated by Young, who was much too slow to take up the pass. When the ball was within a few feet of McBride’s charge at the other end a hard drive by Burgess was fisted away by Scott. From midfield the “Blues” forwards invaded the international’s territory, and Birnie again came under notice with a beautiful shot, which McBride cleverly saved. Play was in Robey’s half when the interval arrived.
Half-time.- Everton 1 goal, Robey’s Eleven 1 goal
A BIG CROWD
The crowd had considerably increased during the progress of the game, and when the teams appeared after the interval there must have been quite 12,000 people present. Young led off after the interval and Everton were the first to show to advantage, giving an abortive corner on the right wing. The international, West, advanced through clever work by Booth, who centred to Bloomer, but before the latter could get in his final shot he was smartly robbed. It was obvious that the players were livening up, and some brilliant work on both sides were witnessed. Young miserably failed to convert a fine centre by Bolton when he had only McBride to beat. Parry and Raisbeck were both responsible for hard drives at the other end, which, however, brought no tangible result. Burgess miskicked, and almost scored for his opponents. A well-conceived and perfectly carried out movement was initiated by Robertson, who passed out to Bond at the right movement, and the latter passed all opposition in characteristic fashion, and finished a delightful bit of work by completely beating Scott. For some time after this play was of a give-and-take character, Birnie and Bolton were conspicuous with a cleverly-designed movement, but Morris pulled them up, and the next item of interest was a breakaway by Bond and Bloomer, the Derby County skipper netting the ball after the whistle had sounded for off-side. A few minutes later Booth took the leather down the left wing, but Robey was distinctly off-side when he shot. The crowd followed the comedian’s movements very closely, and a great roar of good-natured laughter, went up when he let a nice pass from Booth go harmlessly through his legs. After Raisbeck had checked the Everton forwards, Settle cleverly passed to Bolton, who out in a beautiful drive, which McBride caught and threw clear, a performance which he repeated a moment later in answer to a rather feeble shot from close range by Gundy. The international forwards were soon, however, operating in Everton territory, and Booth gave Robey a splendid opening, which the popular comedian miskicked, to the great amusement of the spectators. After some clever and effective work by the whole of the Everton forwards Makepeace with rare judgement, gave to Bolton, who beat McBride with a fast ground shot from close range, thus making the scores equal. From the restart the internationals worked down, and a smart centre by Bond went harmlessly over the line. A long shot by Burgess was well caught by Scott, and pretty work by Bloomer gave Booth an opening, when he was smartly robbed by Makepeace. Bond put in a shot which Scott fumbled, and Hill cleared. Raisbeck put in a long, swift shot, which missed the mark by inches only, and then Bond put the finishing touches to a clever forward movement by beating Scott for the third time. At the other end Young sent in a fine oblique shot, which McBride saved in his masterly style. Robey’s team again worked their way into the Everton half, and Bloomer, with a fine low, swift shot from his left foot notched a fourth goal for the internationals. A few seconds later the internationals again got going, and from a centre by Booth, Jones added a fifth goal for the visitors.
Final.- Robey’s XI 5 goals, Everton 2 goals.

EVERTON v  GEORGE ROBEY’S XI
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 14 February 1906
“the queen” opens the scoring
What was described as "the match of the season " was played at Goodison-park this afternoon, when the Everton league team was opposed by a very powerful eleven got together and captained 'by Mr. George Robey, the pantomimist, who is appearing at the Royal Court Theatre. Mr. Robey, who is an all-round athlete, takes a special interest in football chiefly with a view to benefiting charities. The proceeds of to-day's game are also to be given to various charities. It was, therefore, ratifying that the match was favoured by splendid weather, end a large crowd of spectators assembled. During the progress of the game picture postcards of Mr. Robey as a half-back was sold for the benefit of the Sandon tug disaster fund. The team got together by Mr. Robey was a powerful one. All the players were internationals except the organiser, while Mr. Robey himself has several times assisted Millwall. The cup presented for the winning team was won by Robey's eleven last year, when Manchester City were
BEATEN BY THREE CLEAR GOALS.
Apart from the cup, gold medals are also presented to the players taking part in the game. There would be about 5,000 people present when the teams faced as follows:—Everton: Scott,goal; Hill and Crelly, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), and Donaldson, half-backs; Birnie, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Grundy, forwards.
Robey's Team: M`Bride (Preston); goal; Burgess (Manchester) and Morris (Derby County), backs; Parry and Raisbeck (Liverpool) and Robinson (Chelsea), half-backs; Bond (Preston), Bloomer (Derby), Lot Jones (Manchester), Robey (Millwall)(captain), and Booth (Manchester), forwards.
Play started ten minutes after the advertised time. Robey lost the toss, and Taylor set his opponents to face a bright sun. Jones started, and after Donaldson had robbed Bloomer, Everton pressed, Birnie sending behind the goal. Makepeace and Taylor each robbed Robey in quick succession,to the amusement of the crowd. It was evident,however, that the "Queen" was no novice at the game, and on one occasion he made a plucky though ineffectual attempt to get past Hill on his own. Later, Hill turned a good shot over the line, the corner being worked away. Raisbeck did his side excellent service during pressure by Everton, but once Young
DROVE THE BALL AGAINST THE CROSSBAR,
just as the whistle sounded for off-side. A few minutes later McBride saved from Birnie at the expense of a corner, which was cleared by Raisbeck. Everton, however, were holding a big advantage but had very hard lines. Taylor hit the crossbar with a fine screw shot, and then Young almost got through, McBride just scraping the ball out. The succeeding corner was again fruitless, and the visitors had a turn, Makepeace getting the ball away after Hill had miskicked. At the other end Young had a great chance through a bad clearance on the part of Burgess, but he shot yards over the bar. Robey was keen enough, but the spectators did not take him seriously, and derived much amusement from the manner in which he was robbed by Makepeace. However, when he opened the scoring there was great cheering. The goal followed a fine centre by Bond, and Scott only partially cleared, and
ROBEY RUSHED THE BALL INTO THE NET,
as he fell over the goalkeeper. Everton again took up the attack, but twice Young Shot wide when well placed. The game was well contested, and the spectators, who now numbered 10,000, had plenty of value for their money. End-to-end play was the order, some capital football being shown. Everton could claim a slight advantage of the play,but the defence of the visitors was very sound. On one occasion Raisbeck gave Robey a fine opening, but the captain received the ball in the direction of his own goal.
SETTLE EQUALISED
in clever fashion, taking a neat pass from Grundy and running straight up to McBride before placing the ball just inside the posts. The visitors retaliated strongly, and Burgess hit the cross-bar with a fine shot, Taylor clearing after Scott had left his goal. McBride saved good shots from Bolton and Birnie. The visiting forwards were very clever, and kept the home halves ever at work. Bond forced a corner, from which Raisbeck dribbled the ball, and hit the crossbar, Scott having great difficulty in clearing. Everton responded well, Young sliding across the goal mouth, and outside from an awkward angle. A corner fell to Robey's team, and from this Scott had to punch away a shot from Burgess. Towards the interval McBride stopped a capital shot from Birnie. Considering the slippery state of the ground, the first half had been productive, and some capital football ,teas witnessed. Half-time—Everton 1, Robe 's XI 1.
There would be almost 12,000 spectators present when the players turned out after the interval. Everton conceded a corner, but Booth made a fine run, and play settled in the Everton half. Neat play by Birnie and Bolton enabled Everton to press again, but Young missed a couple of glorious chances in rapid succession. After these escapes the visitors again attacked, and Robey once failed to accept a pass when finely placed. He, however, forced a corner off Hill, but Booth sent the ball behind. For some minutes Everton were kept on the defensive, although the close attentions of the halves prevented Scott being called upon. Bolton relieved the pressure by means of a capital run end McBride had to save from Burgess, who sent the ball in the direction of his own goal. Then Bond made a fine run and
GAVE HIS SIDE THE LEAD
with a shot from close range. Neat dribbling by Bolton enabled the Blues to assume the aggressive, and for Morris to clear with a long kick. The home left wing returned, Parry forcing Grundy to send the ball over the line. Robey got offside when the internationals pressed in turn, and at their end Grandy was similarly penalised. Everton, however, kept up the aggressive, and Bolton was unfortunate in a good shot being turned out of goal through striking an opponent. The subsequent corner was worked away, but relief was only temporary, for Makepeace had to clear from Grundy and Bolton, the latter of whom was playingsplendidly, nicely served by his partner, who got away and centred finely, but
ROBEY MISSED HIS KICK
when the ball was centred. The crowd were highly amused at one or two mistakes on the part of the visitors' captain. During a lot of end-to-end play Everton had an advantage, and at length Bolton equalised after Makepeace had taken the ball into the goal mouth. With the sides level once more, play became keenly contested, and on one occasion the home goal had a narrow escape from a find centre by Bond. From another good run and centre by the Preston player, Scott only partially saved, and Jones netted, but for some reason the referee disallowed the goal. The visitors protested strongly, but without avail. Assisted by the wind, the visitors attacked with vigour, and the Everton goal had some very narrow escapes before Bond scored from Booth's centre. Soon afterwards Bloomer added a fourth goal with a grand shot, while yet another point was put on by Jones. Final.—Robey's XI., 5 goals, Everton 2

EVERTON 2 GEORGE ROBEY X1 5
February 15, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
BENEFIT MATCH AT GOODISON PARK.
What was described as “ the match of the season” was played at Goodison-park yesterday, when the Everton League team was opposed by a very powerful eleven got together and captained by Mr.George Robey, the well-known pantomist, who is appearing at the Royal Court Theatre. Mr. Robey is an all-round athletic, but takes an especial interest in football. He not only indulges in his hobby, but at the same time benefit charities. The proceeds of yesterday's game are to be given to various charities, and with splendid weather favouring the game, there would be about 12,000 spectators present. During the progress of the game pictures postcards of Mr. Robey as a “half-back” were sold for the benefit of the Sandon tug disaster fund. The teams got together by Mr. Robey were a powerful one. All the players were internationals except the organiser while Mr. Robey himself has several times assisted Millwall. The cup presented for the winning team was won by Robey's eleven last year, when Manchester City were beaten by three clear goals. Apart from the cup gold medals are also presented to the players taking part in the game. The teams were as follows : - Everton: - Scott, goals, Hill, and Crelly, backs, Makepeace, Taylor (Captain), and Donaldson, half-backs, Birnie, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Grundy, forwards. Robey's team: - McBride (Preston) goal, Burgess (Manchester City), and Morris (Derby County), backs, Parry and Raisebeck (Liverpool), and Robinson (Chelsea), half-backs, Bond (Preston), Bloomer (Derby), Lot Jones (Manchester City), Robey (Captain) (Millwall), and Booth (Manchester City), forwards. Robey lost the toss, and Taylor set his opponent to face the wind, and sun. Jones started, and after Donaldson had robbed Bloomer, Everton pressed, Birnie sending behind the goal. Makepeace and Taylor each robbed Robey in quick succession to the amusement of the crowd. It was evident however, that the “Queen” was no novise at the game, and on one occasion he made a plucky though ineffectual attempt to get past Hill on his own. Later, Hill turned a good shot over the line, the corner being worked away. Raisebeck did his side excellent services during pressure by Everton, but once Young drove the ball against the crossbar just as the whistle sounded for offside. A few minutes later McBride saved from Birnie at the expense of a corner, which was cleared by Raisebeck. Everton however, were holding a big advantage but had very hard lines. Taylor hit the crossbar, with a fine screw shot, and then Young almost got through, McBride just scraping the ball out. The succeeding corner was again fruitless, and the visitors had a turn, Makepeace getting the ball away after Hill had miskicked. At the other end Young had a great chance through a bad clearance on the part of Burgess, but shot yards over the bar. Robey was keen enough but the spectators did not take him seriously, and derived much amusement from the manner in which Makepeace robbed him. However. However, when he opened the scoring there was great cheering. The goal followed a fine centre by Bond, and with Scott only partially clearing, Robey rushed the ball into the net. Everton again took up the attack, but twice Young shot wide when well placed. The game was well contested, and the spectators had plenty of value for their money. End to end play, was the order, some capital football being shown. Everton could claim a slight advantage on the play, but the defence of the visitors was very sound. On one occasion Raisbeck gave Robey a fine opening, but the captain sent the ball in the direction of his own goal. Settle equalised in clever fashion, taking a neat pass from Grundy and running straight up to McBride before placing the ball just inside the post. The visitors retaliated strongly, and Burgess hit the crossbar with a fine shot. Taylor clearing. At the other end McBride saved good shots from Bolton and Birnie. The visiting forwards were very clever, and kept the home halves ever at work. Bond forced a corner, from which Raisebeck dropped the ball under the crossbar, Scott having great difficulty in clearing. Everton responding well Young sending across the goalmouth and outside from an awkward angle. Another corner fell to Robey's tears and from this Scott had to punch away a shot from Burgess. Towards the interval McBride stopped a capital shot from Birnie. Considering the slippery state of the ground, the first half had been productive of some capital football. Half-time – Everton 1, Robey's X1 1.
On resuming Everton were conceded a corner but Booth made a fine run, and play settled down in the Everton half. Neat play by Birnie and Bolton enabled Everton to press again, but Young missed a couple off glorious chances in rapid success. After these escapes the visitors again attacked, and Robey once failed to accept a pass when finely placed. He, however, forced a corner off Hill, but Booth sent the ball behind. For some minutes Everton were kept on the defensive although the close attentions of the halves prevented Scott being called upon. Bolton relieved the pressure by means of a capital run and Mcbride had to save from Burgess, who sent the ball in the direction of his own goal. Then Bond made a fine run and gave his side the lead with a shot from close range. Neat dribbling by Bolton enable the Blues to assume the aggressive, and Bolton was unfortunate in a good shot being turned out of goal through striking an opponent. The subsequent corner was worked away, but the relief was only temporary, for McBride had to clear from Grundy and Bolton, the latter of whom was playing splendidly. Nicely served by his partner, Booth got away and centred finely, but Robey missed his kick when the ball was centred. The crowd were highly amused at one or two mistakes on the part of the visitors captain. During a lot of end to end play, Everton had an advantage, and at length Bolton equalised, after Makepeace had taken the ball into the goalmouth. With the sides level once more, play became keenly contested and on one occasion the home goal had a narrow escape from a fine centre by Bond. From another good run, and centre by the Preston player, Scott only partally saved and Jones netted, but for some reason the referee disallowed the goal. The visitors protested strongly, but without avail. Assisted by the wind the Internationals attack with vigour, and the Everton goal had some very narrow escapes before Bond scored from Booth's centre. Soon afterwards Bloomer added a fourth goal with a grand shot, while yet Jones put on another point. Final Robey's X1 5 goals, Everton 2 goals.

THE CHAIRTY MATCH
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 15 February 1906
IMPRESSIONS FORMED AT THE MATCH AT EVERTON
Bee
Coming as a successor to Cup tie and League excitement, which has run very high in the last month or so, the charity match at the Everton ground, yesterday, was a nice change. There was full value dealt out to the 17,000 spectators present for the admission money, and one doesn’t see a George Robey in the football arena every Saturday. Naturally the proceedings were graced by many who have never before witnessed a football match, and in the number were many ladies. Robey was the centrepiece of the afternoon. It was always, “Where’s Robey?” before, “Which is Bloomer?” or, “Is that Raisbeck?”
The match was most successfully carried out, and, quite in the order of things, Robey opened the scoring, much to the amusement of the crowd and of Scott, who smiled broadly, and did not appeal for a foul on account of “arming” the ball past him. Quite the opposite was the case when, at Newcastle, Appleyard helped the ball in with his fist. Scott was prepared to allow a footballer of the renown and standing of Robey to gain such a fitting climax to brilliant work, but not so with Appleyard. That was the first real point recorded in the game, though there were many minor points which had not passed unnoticed. For instance, Crelley reappeared in the first ranks, as Balmer had not overcome that terrible blow to his “Little Mary” on Saturday. Also Grundy and Birnie and Donaldson were helping. Then Jack Sharp acted as temporary linesman, Mr. Lomax of the Liverpool Association, as referee; and another topic of discussion was the jerseys of the Internationals, which were in reality the colours of the M.C.C., and consisted of orange and lemon stripes, and Liver adding a tune to the flaming jersey.
Robey keeps his challenge cup, Everton having been beaten by 5-2, and he carries with him the praise of many thousands for his genuine endeavours to aid in charitable work. As for his appearance on the football field, well really it almost bullies description. Of a good frame he jaunts on the field and is anxious, one can readily imagine, to do much, and it has to be reported that he alone of the teams failed to get his posts hammered with mud. He only had omission to hand the ball twice, and perhaps those who were not present will ask “Did he give Makepeace a warm time.”
Makepeace had the spirit of charity deeply engraved on his heart, and he allowed Robey to do much that he would not have done had the comedian been a wage men. It is in passing that Robey shines. He passes many gold coins to the hands of the deserving and how many hours does he pleasantly pass for us with his humour? He game with keen judgement on and off the field, and it isn’t everyone that can do that. His suit is a most unusual one, and his endeavour to count the number of spectators present at the interval was very funny. 
We had the pleasure of seeing the famed pair, Bloomer and Bond, and they put in some very artistic work. How whole-hearted is the Preston man when on the wing; and what a trading sprint is his? He got two goals; the one and only Stephen got one, and disputed the referee’s decision in another netting of the ball, which did not lead to the ball being placed in the centre. So prolonged was his appeal to the referee that Robey gravely ordered him “not to argue.” Lot Jones was the other scorer, and he was in fine trim, and fared successfully against Taylor. McBride brought off many fine clearance, and “the pocket Hercules,” Burgess, demonstrated to the full his value as a defender. Raisbeck treated the match with all the severity of a Cup-tie, and worked not only hard, but with success, and Young cup up badly as a result. “Jocky” Robertson wears well. On the losers side Birnie was certainly the best forward, and I expect he will be chosen to play in Sharp’s place on Saturday at Trent Bridge.
Crelley tackled effectively, and Hill kicked strongly. Bolton got his first goal for his new masters, and Settle opened his side’s scoring-sheet with an effort which alone could be performed as the little men did it. He wedged his way through, walked almost on the goal line and simply pushed the ball through. How much better was this than a terrific kick? He placed the ball in the net, whereas more than one member had the same opportunity later on, and attempted to break the netting. It is all a matter of judgement at the crucial moment.

THE ROBERY MATCH
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 15 February 1906
Many football matches have been organised in the cause of charity, but it is doubtful whether a more successful one than that of yesterday has ever before been seen in Liverpool. Mr. Robey is, indeed, to congratulated upon the success of the arrangements made and the fine team of players he' got together. The match was favoured with beautiful weather for football, and it was not surprising to see a crowd, which increased as the, game proceeded to about 12,000 people. The exact sum taken at the gates amounts to £348, whilst the amount gained from the sale of tickets is not, up to the time of writing, known. It will thus be seen that the match was an unqualified success in every way, and local charities will benefit considerably. The sale of the Robey postcard realised the sum of £24, which is to be given to the Sandon tug disaster fund.
The crowd had good value for their money, too,the game being well contested all through, and some grand Individual work was seen on the part of the Blues, and the International eleven. The latter looked a fine lot of fellows when they stepped on the field, wearing shirts of the most brilliant colours-a sort of, red and yellow stripes. It is not often that we see jerseys like those Raisbeck and Co. wore yesterday at Goodison-park, but it was a pleasing change . from the - ordinary blue, red, or white. Somebody remarked that the players looked as if they were dressed for a cakewalk. The players soon showed, however, that they knew exactly how to play the game of football, and when the match had progressed a few minutes the spectatorssettled down to enjoy the fare presented.
The game was most enjoyable, the players entering into the fray in workmanlike style. Theymust have had those gold medals well in their mind's eye. In the first half it looked as though Everton were going to win,for theyhad the best of the play, but some glorious opportunities were missed, Young being extremely weak in the centre. He lifted the ball either over the bar or wide of the post in most unaccountable manner, or Everton must have scored at least a couple more goals in the first half.
On the other hand, when the visiting forwards got down they were always dangerous, Bond and Bloomer in particular doing good work, but the defence of the Blues was always ready to check them. It was appropriate that Mr. George . Robey should obtain the opening point, and, the manner in which it was gained was rather amusing, but it must be said that the popular comedian was full of earnestness, and he welt deserved the goal. The ball had been bobbing about near the Everton line, and it went out to Bond, who centred rather high, and the sphere dropped on " the Queen," who promptly gave his head a twist and the ball dropped just under the bar. – Scottjumped up, but somehow he Stumbled and fell. " George" followed up his header and fell over the Everton keeper, and in doing so knocked the ball into the net.
Settle's equalising goal was a characteristic one, obtained in the coolest manner possible. He received the ball near the visiting goal, and dribbling up the field right to McBride, slowing down as he neared the Preston man, he simply touched the leather out of the keeper's reach. It was a splendid goal. Many a player would have shot wildly with such an opportunity. The visitors in the second half asserted their superiority in a marked degree, and Bond played excellently on the wing, and the points he obtained came from beautiful efforts, whilst Jones in the centre showed remarkable cleverness and speed. Everton could do with a man like Lot. Taking the game as a whole the winners deserved theirvictory, and the crowd were well satisfied with the display. George Robey, the organiser of the game, caused much amusement by his eagerness and the efforts he made to gain possession of the ball. Great roars—were they of disappointment ?-went up when on several occasions he miskicked, through over-eagerness we should think.

EVERTON CRIPPLES
February 16, 1906. The Liverpool Echo
Everton go to Nottingham to face the County, and there is a coincidence about the match. It was on October 14 that the County were beaten by 6-2 at Goodison and Oliver gained three of the goals. Simultaneously with the return fixture Oliver reappears after a long absence with the reserve team, which does duly at home to Accrington, who are making a stern struggle to win the Combination Cup this year. Stanley have a lead over Everton reserves in the matter of points, and have matches in hand as well. It is a weekly occurance which has become all too regular for the Everton directors to have to rearrange their team through injured members. After the charity match on Wednesday, Hill found both his ankles were weak, and though chosen, it is not by any means certain he will play at Nottingham. W. Balmer is sufficiently recovered and so is Abbott, and each reappears. The most serious is the inability of Sharp to assist but Birnie has but to show that vim and power of centring as on Wednesday to prove quite satisfactory. I fancy Everton will win.

NOTTS COUNTY 0 EVERTON 0
February 17, 1906. The Liverpool Football Echo.
EVERTON PLAY A NEW MAN
BOTH TEAMS MISS PENALTY KICKS
The Everton team were due to fulfil their return engagement with Notts County, at Trent Bridge to-day. The difficulty of reaching the lace capital from Liverpool may be best emphasised by the bald statement that the Goodison-park brigade left the Central Station at 9-40 under the charge of Trainer Elliott, and did not reach Nottingham until 1-35. The team was met on arrival by Mr. Cuff, the secretary, who made the interesting announcement that a new forward had been secured in the person of Donnachie, whom he signed on last evening, and whose transfer was duly registered in London, so that he might figure in the team to-day in place of Sharp, who is on the injured list. Donnachie played for Newcastle United, and is reported to be equally good at either outside right or left. In view of this capture Birnie, who travelled with the team was relieved from playing, and the Evertonians lined out as follows: - Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Makepeace, Taylor (Captain), and Abbott half-backs, Donnachie, Bolton, Young Settle, and Hardman forwards, forwards. Notts County: - Iremonger, goals, Montgomery, and Jones, backs, Emberton, Mainman, and Craythorpe, half-backs, Dean, Humphreys, Green, Tarpin, and Gee, forwards. Referee Mr.N.Whittaker.
Everton won the toss, and Notts started against a cross breeze. They immediately ran down, and Scott had to fist out a rather warm shot in the first minutes. The visitors however, speedily found their feet, and a nice combined movement promised well, but Hardman finally shot rather woefully wide of the mark. End to end play followed neither side gaining any material advantage Gee and Tarplin at length got going in good style, and the ex-Evertonian finished with a strong shot, but it went wide of the mark. More midfield work ensued and the County forwards moved in the direction of Scott, but Green was distinctly off side when he netted the ball. The whistle having already sounded, a break away by the Everton right looked bad for Notts, but Montgomery cleared his lines very cleverly, and the home side made ground on the left. On two occasions Gee ran through his field, and looked within an ace of scoring when Makepeace pulled him up. In the second instances the Evertonians did not mince matters in saving the situation, and his tactics were fully justified by the result. There was another spell of work near the centre line, and then Donnachie got going splendidly on the right. The latest acquisition looked like running through when Montogomery deliberately tripped him within the prescribed area, and the referee at once gained a penalty kick . The kick was taken by Makepeace, but to the chagrin of the Everton supporters present the popular back shot tamely into Iremonger's hands, and the Notts custodian had no difficulty in clearing. This failure to score had of course a damping effect on the visitors, and for a long time the home side had rather the best of the argument. Green brought a promising forward movement to an abrupt conclusion, in heading the ball being kicked on the head by Crelly. He received a nasty injury, and had to leave the field in order to have the curt dressed. At the same time Settle owing to something being wrong with a stocking, also retired, but the Evertonians was soon back in his place again. The game proceeded at an uneventful pace until the County left wing worked down, and Gee put in a capital shot, which was well interrupted by Abbott. After this the Everton left wing moved forward, and Bolton was in a fine position for scoring, when he shot yards wide of the mark. At the other end the County men were subsequently very busy, but their shooting was very wild and erratic, and Crelly finely cleared one dangerous rush after Balmer had failed. For some time after this play was of a distinctly desultory character, and nothing of importance accursed. The home forwards were much more aggressive, and working then their opponents, but they finished so badly that the Everton goal was rarely jeopardised, and the crowd gave vent to its disappointment when Gee, and Humphreys both missed fine opportunities of scoring. A cordial cheer greeted Green's reappearance, and with the centre forwards again in his place, the Notts attack was much better organised. The defence of the visitors, however, was thoroughly sound, and after a time Hardman and Settle made a ground but Jones dispossessed the amateur at the last moment. The home front line again took up the attack but the their shooting was arractic. The lacemen speedily returned an aggressive attitude and Gee showing a clean pair of heels to Balmer, shot right across the goalmouth but there was nobody up to take the pass, and thus a glorious change went begging. The next item of interest was a meeting between Montgomery and Donnachie, the Notts back fouling the new Evertonian and delaying the game for a few moments. Following upon the free kick Bolton worked his way nearly through, but his final shot lacked accuracy of direction, and two seconds later Hardman also missed a grand opportunity of distinguishing himself. The pace during all this time was by no means exhilarating but Notts tried to take a load through Dean, who raced down, and tested Scott with a very hot shot which the Everton custodian throw clear. The visiting were next conspicuous with a nice combined effort but it only terminated in Young heading the ball outside. Play continued to be of a scrambling character, and though Everton displayed clever footwork, the forwards always failed at the crucial moment. A collision between Settle and Jones ended in the Evertonian bowling his adversary over, and this led to some rough play for a time. Mainman being penalised for fouling the old Bury player. The County forwards gradually made ground, and Taylor was in a fine position when he shot wide of the mark. A few seconds afterwards Humphreys, from close range, put in a swift ground shot, but it passed just outside. As the end drew near Notts made renewed efforts again to lead, and Green working through, sent in a swift ground shot, but Scott was equal to the occasion, and cleared. At the other end Everton put on pressure, and after Iremonger had saved from Hardman. Taylor with a very hard drive sent the ball over the crossbar, and the game resulted in a goalless draw.

ACCRINGTON STANLEY RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
February 17, 1906. The Liverpool Football Echo
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 27)
The visit of the present Combination champions to Goodison Park promised to provide a keen and interesting struggle. After as absence of several weeks, Oliver appeared as pivot to the home attack. The visitors brought no less than 1,200 supporters with them, so that there was a good crowd present to witness the proceedings. Brunton commenced for the visitors, and the initial exchanges were of an even character and confined to midfield. The Accrington forwards were early prominent and some clever footwork caused no small amount of anxiety to the home defence. Wright and Wildman using their best efforts to avert defeat. The visitors vanguard was admirably placed when Brunton was brought low within the area, and Morris had no difficulty in registering the first point for the visitors front the resulting penalty. This success came after two minutes play and the Accrington supporters made themselves heard in no unmistakable manner. From the restart the Blues took up, he attack and Turner cleverly saved at the expense of an abortive corner. Some scrambling play, from which neither side gained any advantage, followed, and then the homester moved along in promising fashion. Cooke finishing a fine run with a clever centre, which McLaughlin was just a second too late to convert. There was no mistaking the earnestness of the Accrington players, who persistently troubled the Blues defence. Dempsey put in a good attempt, which Collins gave, and then Dilly got in a good run, and centre, from which Cooke compelled Turner to grant a corner, which proved unproductive. Towards the interval the Everton forwards seriously troubled Turner, Donaldson on one occasion causing the Stanley custodian to use his best efforts to uphold his colours. Morris put in a hard drive, which missed the mark by inches only. Accrington were pressing when the interval arrived. Half-time Accrington 1 Everton nil. Cooke equalised in the second portion. Final result Accrington 1, Everton 1. Everton: - Collins, goal, Wildman, and Hannon backs, Chadwick Wright, and Donaldson, half-backs, Dilly McLoughlin, Oliver, Cooke, and Grundy forwards.

 

NOTTS COUNTY v  EVERTON
Football News (Nottingham) - Saturday 17 February 1906
The “magpies” friends appreciated the opportunity afforded this afternoon of catching a glimpse of their team after absence from home since January 20th, what time they defeated Blackburn Rovers, and lost to Bolton Wanderers and Birmingham. Everton, the visitors, have never quite realised expectations and proved equal to their paper value; but they have always been an attractive, sportsmanlike side, and are deservedly popular wherever they go. Their form this season has been of a very in and out character, and as they came to-day without Sharp, who has strained himself, the chances seemed to be in favour of the “magpies” garnering two of the six points which will make their position in Division 1, quite safe. Notts., though they have had to be content on six occasions with a division of spoils, have only once been defeated on the Trent Bridge carpet this season, and as the “light blues” have been defeated seven times, as against two victories, on foreign soil this term, there was no lack of justification for the confidence which obtained in the local camp. Since 1887 the teams have met on 32 occasions, of which Everton won 19 games against 10 and scored 71 goals to 41 by Notts.

THE TEAMS
Notts were represented by the same team which put up such a creditable fight at Birmingham, but Everton, as we have said, lacked the services of their famous speed and “hat-trick” merchant, Sharp, and played Donnachie, whom they secured yesterday from Newcastle United, on the outside right berth, while in the intermediate line Donaldson stood down in favour of Abbott, while the back division was reconstructed, Crelly reappearing as partner to Billy Balmer. The teams were constituted as follows;-
Notts; A. Iremonger, goal; A.T Jones and J. Montgomery, backs; F.P. Emberton, H.L. Mainman, and R. Craythorne, half-backs; J. Dean, and P. Humphreys, right wing; A.W. Green, centre; W, Tarplin, and E. Gee, left wing.
Everton.- W Scott goal; W. Balmer and Crelly, backs; H. Makepeace, J. Taylor (captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Donnachie, and H. Bolton, right wing; A. Young, centre; J. Settle, and H.P. Hardman, left wing.
Referee; Mr. N. Whittaker, of London.
THE GAME
The visitors won the toss, and set their opponents to face a stiff breeze with their faces towards the Hound-road end, Green starting punctually at three o’clock in the presence of about 9,000 spectators. In the first minute Emberton dispossessed Abbott cleverly, and giving the ball to Dean the outside right placed a neat centre in front of Scott. Crelly, however, volleyed the ball over the heads of a crowd of players, and Dean finished the movement by sending outside. A moment later, however, Green again placed the Shropshire man in possession, but he could not get on the target, and for several minutes after this the Everton forwards were very busy in front of Iremonger, both Young and Hardman having ineffective shies at goal. The Evertonians continued to show the smarter football, and Jones was twice at fault in dealing with their clever left wing, Settle and Hardman, the latter’s square centres being a constant source of danger to Iremonger’s charge. From one of these Donnachie headed dangerously near the left upright, and for several minutes the ball hung about in unpleasant proximity to the home goal area. Fortunately, however, the visiting forwards were unable to spurn the leather into the webbing, and in turn Green and his companions enjoyed a spell of aggression, during which the centre forward twice skimmed the Everton woodwork. Later, from a pass by Humphreys, Green put the ball in the net, but obviously from an off-side position, and therefore nothing counted. We are persuaded, however, that Green showed  lack of judgment in not keeping onside, because an either case he would have been uncovered and able to take an uninterrupted view of Scott’s locality. At the other end Jones and Emberton had further trouble with Hardman and Settle, but though the visitors were very smart with their footwork and frequently right in front of goal, they were unable to strip the “magpies” of their feathers. The game, however, was by no means one-sided, and so hard were the visitors pressed on a couple of occasions that their defenders resorted to un-Parliamentary tactics, in compensation for which Notts claimed penalties. To the intense dissatisfaction of the crowd the referee.

TURNED A DEAF EAR
To their entreaties; but though the “magpies” did not appear to get their deserts in these respects they ought to have taken the lead by this, Gee having missed an open goal. Craythorne was more accurate in his direction of a long shot, and was unlucky in striking the upright, Taylor lifting the ball to midfield from the rebound. Young gave it a tap across to Donnachie, who out-paced the home half-backs, and was steering a clear course for goal when Montgomery summarily upset him. A penalty kick was immediately awarded to the Evertonians, but Makepeace feebly placed the ball along the ground to Iremonger, who cleared easily amid tumultuous cheering. It was a rare let-off, but Notts deserved it. Twenty-five minutes from the commencement each team had only ten men on the field. Settle had retired for some cause which did not present itself, but Green went to the dressing-room to nurse a sore place on the side of his head caused by coming into contact with Crelly’s feet. The Notts, forward was about to head the ball when the back attempted a high-kicking movement, with disastrous results for Green, who uttered moaning, sounds as he came to earth. His injury, however, was the result of a pure accident. After five minutes’ absence Settle returned, but although they were short-handed the “magpies” quite held their own in exchanges which were little better than scrambles. The “blues” however, had more chances to score, and Donnachie inexorable let his opponents off from a absolutely clear position at close quarters. Five minutes from the interval Green returned, to the accompaniment of an encouraging ragged in attack just now, and none too safe in defence. Some of the men did not seem able to get any powder behind the ball, with the result that their clearances lacked the decisiveness of their opponents. Yet neither team was coming up to the standard expected of Division 1, exponents, and both sets of forwards betrayed their weakness by a desire to constantly infringe the off-side rule. Dean and Humphreys each failed conspicuously at likely openings, but Green came very near from a difficult position. Just before breathing time was due a penalty kick was given against Balmer for handling, but Dean, who is usually so safe at converting, sent the ball whizzing over the horizonal amid a prolonged howl which signified the natural disappointment of the spectators. Notts remained on the attack for the moment or two which remained, and the chief incidents were a capital long centre from Gee and a grand shot by Craythorne which struck the post half-way up and rebounded to Abbott, who cleared. The homesters, however, were unable to score, and at the end of a curious and unsatisfying “45” the score-sheet was unsoiled.
Half-time;- Notts County 0 Everton 0
Resuming before an attendance which had panned out to 10,000, Gee had a chance immediately, but sent into touch, and then a couple of shots were directed towards Iremonger -the first by Hardman, who received a lovely feed from Settle, and the second by Abbott, a half-back who is extraordinarily fond of trying to catch a goalkeeper napping. The Notts custodian dealt with Hardman’s attempt in workmanlike manner, but Abbott caused him no trouble since he ballooned the leather into the big stand. The visiting defence now came in for a great deal of anxiety, and Scott had quite a number of deadly drives to deal with, two of which-from Green-deserve to be specially mentioned. The Everton rearguard was very determined and clever, but Notts, were so persistent and dashing that their opponents needed a modicum of luck to be cast in the balance or they would not have kept their flag flying. To quote the remark of an occupant of the Press box, “The ‘magpies could do everything but score,” and unfortunately nothing is allowed in the Association game for trying. Here, at all events, our Rugby friends have an advantage. Tarplin was scarcely forward enough to receive a grand ground centre by Gee or Scott’s charge would inevitably have been captured. Following this incident the pace and the game brightened perceptibly; there was some of that excitement without which football is a poor thing, and both sides had their seasons of anxiety; but the shooting, particularly that of Notts, and particularly again that of Dean, was sadly lacking in vim and accuracy, and goals were conspicuous by their absence. Iremonger, however, came to the rescue of his side when Hardman broke through and swung the ball across to Bolton, who looked all over a scorer until Iremonger reared his tall form spectre-like in front of the little Evertonian and repelled his shot with the coolness of the proverbial cucumber. The game was contested with remarkable zest, but on the whole Everton, perhaps, had rather the better of it, for the dual reason that they were nippier in their movements and timed their passing better. Still, Notts had plenty of openings, a fair proportion of which came from Gee’s centreing, but his colleagues in the vanguard did not keep time with his passes and were not in a position to harass the Everton backs and goalkeeper. Green strove with might and main to break down the strong well of defence opposed to him, but, like his companions, he was wont to try to do too much off his own boot, and did not manifest the knack of knowing exactly when to part with the ball. And thus it came about that, at the Everton end, the “magpies” were constantly promising only to disappoint when the finer touches of the game were required. The home defence, on the other hand, was steadier now than it had been, and except on the few occasions when the fugitives, Hardman and Donnachie, got away and found Iremonger some employment the Everton attacking party were kept at a safe and respectable distance. Towards the end the visitors redoubled their efforts without success, and in the last moment Scott had to clear a reaming centre from Gee.
A division of points did justice to both teams.
Result;- Notts County 0 Everton 0
A FEW AFTERHOUGHTS
FANCY TWO PENALTIES MISSED!
It was a disappointing game- disappointing because Notts failed to gain both points, and because of the lack of their finer touches of the Association game, a minus quantity, attributable perhaps to the heavy going. And yet the ground was like a drawing-room carpet compared with what it was on Thursday. A division of points was a result with which nobody can reasonally cavil, for, while Notts, had percentage rather the more opportunities for scoring, Everton were the “nippier” and the clever team. Indeed, I cannot but think they would have won had they been better served in the centre, but “Sandy” Young was practically no use at all. He is having a dreadfully poor season, a Liverpool colleague told me.
The “Magpies” played very hard and gave of their best; but that was not a very great thing, and most of their preliminary energy was wanted by lack of finishing skill. The forwards are too slow in front of the posts. I wosh some of them would take more care with their shooting. Dean missed often in this respect, and moreover, besmirched his reputation as a pettily artist. What a pity! For as it turned out “Jerry” could have settled the issue off his own boot.
However, it was no discredit to the team that they failed to whack Everton. It’s a long time since they did, but the feat will come of some day. Iremonger came up with his little lot, as usual, in fine style; Jones kicked stronger and cleaner than Montgomery, and the halves were an even lot who worked untiringly without much top colouring. The forwards, as I’ve said, wanted busmishing; otherwise there wasn’t much the matter with them. Still, we want five more points yet, and it believe the team to girl up their loins that acquire that equipment which will enable them to win on the Bridge during their meetings.

ANOTHER EVERTON RECRUIT
Athletic News - Monday 19 February 1906
Everton secured the transfer of Donanchie from Newcastle United on Friday last.  Though, perhaps, too lightly built for severe football, Donnachie, who went from Greennock Morton at the beginning of the current season, is a smart forward.  He is remarkably clever with the ball on the run down the touch-line on the right wing, and his centres are invariably marked by sound judgement and directness.  It may be added that Bolton, who came to Newcastle United in September last, only preceded Donnachie to Goodison Park a few weeks ago. 

AN OLD FAULT AT NOTTINGHAM
Athletic News - Monday 19 February 1906
By Trentsider
Had their shooting been of a better character Notts would have beaten Everton somewhat comfortably, but they threw their best chances to the winds, as they have so very often done in the past, and a goalless draw was recorded.  In a large measurer the Everton forwards were in the same plight, and from the standpoint of the general spectators the game was exceedingly disappointing.  There were good features in it, but they were comparatively few, and on the whole the play was of a distinctly weak order.  There was a total want of balance about the Notts side.  Frequently the forwards were altogether out of position and the consequence was that when combined movements were attempted they were almost sure to go wrong.  Their rushing advances were, however, executed in rear style, producing exceptionally openings, and it was really a marvel how it was that they were not made better use of.  In other departments there was no cause for grumbling.  The half-backs played well, and the defence was stubborn though a trifle shaky under pressure.  The Everton front rank gave a pretty display.  A thorough understanding existed, and the men were wonderfully alert in their movements.  Yet they failed entirely in their final efforts, and were a long way from being as dangerous as Notts.  They threatened as seriously as at any time at the opening when Bolton was the forward who got most favourably placed.  he made a very good attempt to head in a centre by Hardman, but a few moments later, when only a yard or two away, he dallied and Iremonger actually took the ball from his feet. 
MISSED PENALTIES
Even a penalty kick to each side proved valueless.  That awarded to Everton was for a foul by Mainman on Donnachie, who got clear away in the centre from a miskick by Montgomery.  Makepeace was entrusted with it, but he put in a weak dribbling shot which Iremonger had not the slightest difficulty in clearing.  A claim for a penalty by Notts for the suspicious way in which Balmer brought Gee down was ignored, but subsequently one was granted for handling, and Dean was deputed to take it.  He had not missed scoring from any he had previously taken this season, but he made a mess on this occasion shooting high over. As evidence of the contrariness of matters, it will no doubt be Interesting to know that both Green and Young shot well into the net when off side.  At other times they were not near the mark, and Green had many chances. Gee mulled one of the best, and Craythorne came nearest to scoring with a fine hook shot which rebounded from one of the posts. Just before the Interval, too, the half-back all but beat Scott, who was smart to clear. Green was absent considerable period owing to an injury sustained by a kick on the head from Crelly, and he made one of his closest shots on turning out again in the second half. He had bad luck in having one or two shots charged down, and more than once he called upon Scott. But all his efforts were in vain. His colleagues could do no better, though all tried, some of the attempts being very weak. Centres by Gee and Dean passed right across without an effort being made by anybody to reach them, and dashes in the centre by Dean and Tarplin were of no avail.
EVERTON'S RECRUIT
One shot from Gee gave Scott some trouble, but in the second half neither Keeper had much out of the ordinary to do. Young, Donnachie, Hardman, and Taylor made fair endeavours to get the ball through, but Everton were by no means as prominent as in the first half, making little impression on the defence of the home team. Iremonger kept goal with credit and Montgomery and Jones did well. The former, however, was a little too vigorous without doing his side any good. The half-backs were very strong. Emberton doing capital work. He quite had the measure of Hardman, and in defence was of the utmost use. Craythorne also played a fine game, rendering the forwards all the assistance they could expect, and proving as dangerous In front of goal as any of them. Mainman also played a very fair game. Green was clever, except in shooting, and the same remark applies to Dean, who made many brilliant runs. Gee, too, played a capital game, and Humphreys rendered fine service, but Tarplin was somewhat off colour. Scott was smart in the Everton goal, and Crelly played excellently.  Taylor was splendid at centre half-back, and Abbott performed well along with Makepeace.  Bolton played a smart game, and he had an able partner in the recruit, Donnachie, who should be of great service.  Settle was injured early in the game, and could not afterwards do himself justice.  Up to that time he had been conspicuous by clever work.  Hardman found it difficult to beat Emberton, and Young was prone to be off-side.  Notts County; Iremonger; Montgomery, Jones; Emberton, Mainman, Craythorpe; Dean, Humphreys, Green, Tarplin, and Gee.  Everton; Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Donnachie, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Harman.  Referee; Mr. N. Whittaker, London. 

EVERTON BOLDNESS
Liverpool Echo - Monday 19 February 1906
Bee
It was a matter of wasted opportunities at Nottingham, and the unusual sight of two penalty goals being missed was witnessed. One can hardly conceive Makepeace missing a penalty. He had become such an artist in this important matter last season that we looked upon him as infallible. Perhaps as has fallen away on account of the rarity with which Everton have obtained penalty kicks this season. He took plenty of time, but apparently miskicked the ball, which rolled slowly to Iremonger. Dean, on the other hand, for Notts County, shot with vigour rather than judgement, the ball soaring high over the bar, and Scott-he signified. Birnie travelled with the team, but on arrival there was a surprise for all. Mr. Secretary Cuff announced the transfer and registration of Donnachie, who formerly played with Bolton’s team. Of course, he is Scotch to the core. He has a fine turn of speed and considerable ability in managing the ball, and when I tell you that he is only twenty-one years of age and stands 5ft 8ins you will agree that there is time for him, even were he not an able player. But, from what I am told, he is indisputably a clever player at present. It was a bold step to play him with a set of men he knew not of, and on a ground he had never visited. Apparently it worked satisfactorily, for a colleague tells me that he made a capital substitute for Sharp; albeit, I thought Birnie’s play on the previous Wednesday merited recognition. I hope Bolton is not to fellow in the wake of McDermott, and become a hesitator in front of goal. He was always doing good things on Saturday up to a point; but there he was lost, and once failed to score when he had an open goal before him. As the pivot of the team Young displayed cleverness in much of his work, but he was weak when he should have been dashing and alert. The left wing were at times very pretty to watch. Settle was handicapped. The half backs made a brave show, and it was through no fault of theirs that the County defence was not pierced. The full backs too, played sound and satisfactory football, and Scott between the sticks did all that he was called upon to do with promptness and judgement. Gee put in many fine individual efforts against his old club, and Green was perhaps the next best forward on his side. The half back line had not a little to do with breaking up Everton’s attempts at combination, and the backs, especially Jones, were always reliable.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORTS
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 19 February 1906
Everton failed to repeat last season's victory on the Notts County ground. But still, they did the next best thing sharing the honours of a pointless draw. After all, this was about a true indication of the run of the game, which never rose above mediocrity. Each side had chances numerous enough, in all conscience, to find the net, but the players had evidently lost their shooting boots. Each, too, was awarded a penalty-kick in the first half, and in each instance it brought no advantage. Makepeace actually failed to convert- this must be a record for him—and Dean, who took the kick for the Lacemen, made an even worse attempt. Makepeace did manage to send the ball at the goalkeeper, but Dean could do nothing better thanshoot it over the crossbar. No doubt the greasy state of the ground was largely accountable for the mistakes of the forwards on both sides, but for all that the quality of the play was distinctly disappointing.
A great surprise was served up by the Everton directors, who put up a new man in Sharp's place. It was expected that Birnie would turn out, but Mr. Cuff having completed the transfer of Donnachie at the last moment that player, Who is from Newcastle, turned out at outside right. He is a young fellow of 21, standing 5ft. 8in. and weighs 10st. 81b. The ground was all against him, as well as the rest, on Saturday,but he showed a good understanding with Bolton, and is likely to make a serviceable player for the Goodison-road. organisation. As for the game itself it calls for no detailed' description, the state of the ground no doubt being largely responsible for the poor display.

LIGHTNING TRANSFER
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 20 February 1906
HOW EVERTON RECRUIT BECAME ELIGIBLE FOR SERVICE
Bee
The Everton directors have caused great satisfaction among their supporters by strengthened their team. It would appear probable that Donnachie the new importation would be a source of strength to the forward line, although, as a correspondent who signs himself “One who believes in weight,” says, “The Everton forward line is chiefly lacking in build and at centre forward, and I believe that it in the smallest line playing football to-day.” My correspondent says “weight will tell,” and to his way of thinking, the directors in the last two cases have signed on “bantams,” as you might say; still, “bantams” or “crows,” or what you like, one cannot help but appreciate the officials in their endeavours to get a team together worthy of the name of Everton. The “signing-on” of Donnachie was so interesting that it is worth reproducing I detail. It reminds one of Mr. William Cuff’s previous lightning episode, when he got Roose to sign for the club. Mr. Cuff left Liverpool at 10.45 a.m. on Friday morning, and reaching Newcastle at 3.30, saw the directors of Newcastle in the afternoon; then the player, who was not on the transfer list, and had no idea of his sudden departure, agreed to terms with all parties, and left for London soon after five o’ clock, reaching there in a drenching rain at eleven o’clock.
Meanwhile the puzzle was how to get the League and professional registration forms signed in time for the morrow. For the League registration the application was posted from Newcastle to Preston, and on Saturday an Everton man was sent to Present to receive the League receipts, which was taken to Nottingham. The professional registration was, of course, obtained in London by Mr. Cuff himself. The player was packed off to Newark. It is the opinion of the officials that a goal would already have bene put up to his credit, had not both the County backs tripped him up. He was twenty-one years of age last December, stands 5ft 8in, in height, and weighs 10st 10lb. he can play either outside left or outside right. Newcastle obtained his signature from Greenock Morton at the beginning of the season. He had been a member of the Morton eleven for two seasons, prior to which he figured with Rutherglen Glencairn. It was at the latter Scotch centre that Mr. Cuff signed Marshall McEwan, who is now doing such sterling work for Bolton Wanderers.
Just a word about the cup match with Bradford City. Everton are not going away in special training.
L.R. Roose has written an interesting article on goalkeeping, which has been entitled. “A Careful Sturdy of the Art,” On the subject of whether a goalkeeper is born or made, the Welsh international remarks;-
 “An experience of the game leads one to the belief that to a great extent a goalkeeper is born, not made. Almost all the best goalkeepers whom one is able to call to mind have possessed some inherent gift which marked them out as natural players, and have taken to that position as readily as a duckling taken to water; and, if followed from their early careers, it would be found that these natural players took rank an “class” men almost from their first games. There is not particular style in class. It has one great style. The genius to there, and goalie will cut in goalkeeping as in other accomplishments.”

EVERTON’S CAPTURES
Newcastle Daily Chronicle - Tuesday 20 February 1906
Everton are pleased in every way with their latest “bargains” from Newcastle United- Bolton and Donnachie, and I may say that the Tynesiders are equally pleased with the transaction, which means something like £500 addition to their season’s income. The players named were together on the wing on Saturday against Notts County. Donnachie having quickly  stepped into the ranks. Strange to say he obtained a penalty kick for a foul by Mainman, but Makepeace put in a very poor shot. A kick of the same kind was awarded Notts, but the “William Tell” of the team, Dean, blazed it over the bar!

STANLEY SHARE THE POINTS.
Accrington Observer and Times - Tuesday 20 February 1906
Thanks to a Penalty.
[By ‘“ Free Lance.”]
The visit of Accrington Stanley to Everton on Saturday afforded an extra half-day’s holiday for about six hundred Accringtonians who availed themselves of the trip to Liverpool. And what a boisterous, happy lot they were—determined to crowd as much as possible in the ten hours at their disposal, the late train home giving them an opportunity for a night at the pantomime, on the landing stage, or across the river. The day was everything that could be desired, and altogether delightful from a climatic point of view. And from a football aspect, Stanley’s supporters had nothing to grumble at, for though the “Reds ” did not win they halved the points, and in the words of one of the Kentucky cornermen that was something to be thankful for,” for on the Everton enclosure they have yet to gain their first victory.
It was a big task they were set, for Everton’s only chance of winning the championship lay in the defeat of their opponents. On the other hand, victory for the ”Reds" practically' assured them, of the Combination cup.” Thus there were all the ingredients of g right royal struggle, and in that respect no one was disappointed. To both clubs the game was very much of the nature of a final, at any rate in view of their spectators, though St. Helens stillfancy their chances, though they have played four matches more for one point lead over Stanley. Stanley have only two matches, I think about which they need have any doubt Manchester United and Rossendale away.
The game had a sensationalopening,  Stanley,who lost the toss, being awarded a penalty in the first three minutes of the game for a push by Chadwick on Brunton, Morris was again called upon to convert, and he didsowith a capital shot, Colling making a wretched attempt to save, being altogether deceived in the direction of the shot. That was an inspiriting start, ang the Stanley crowd did notforget to hail it with loud cheers. Both sides put their heart into the play and went at it for all they were worth. The big ground and the sticky nature of the turf was all against the light-weight Stanley forwards, Had the ground been drier or softer they would have done far better. Each goal was visited in turn, and a grand centre from the Everton left, wag only a few inches toofar forward fop McLaughlin. It was a capital effort and a near thing, Stanley had a turn at pressing, the inside men showing up well, their combination being very effective. But, the home defence was strong, and Stanley could dono more than force a couple of corners, From one the ball came out to Brindle, who returned it like a flash. The ball seemed to be sailing under the bar like lightning, but Colline just managed to tip It over. It was a magnificent shot and deserved a better fate.
After that Everton gave the Stanley defence a gruelling. They got hold in the vicinity of Stanley goal, and a shot by Cooke needed all the agility of Turner to negotiate. Stanley, could not get the ball away for quite four minutes, one or two fouls helping their  opponents. From one just outside the penalty line Grundy neatly lifted the ball over the heads of the Stanley defenders, who were lined up in front, and Turner only just succeeded in keeping the ball from dropping under the bar into the net. Stevenson and Hampson proved their metal during that time, and at last Stanley not only forced the big Everton fellows back, but assumed the aggressive and made matters warm for the home defence. Dempsey, Brunton and Morris, backed up by Rigby and Bradshaw, displayed splendid football, and made praiseworthy but fruitless attempts to get through. They forced several corners, but failed to turn them to better use, the height and weight of the Everton defenders being stumbling blocks in their way. Neither of the two Stanley wing men had been so effective as usual, but up to half-time Stanley deserved their lead.
The pace in the second half was well maintained, and the game was strenuously fought. Everton, however, were the more aggressive, Cooke and Oliver being always dangerous, and they needed all the attention of Rigby and Bradshaw, who worked like Trojans. A run by the home left was one of the best things of the match, and the Stanley goal had a narrow escape, Stevenson clearing in the nick of time. Brindle seemed slightly lost on the large ground. The Stanley front rank found the home defenders an almost impassable pair, the kicking and volleying of both being fine. Morris obtained an opening and tock a running shot, but he unfortunately got under the ball and lifted it yards over the bar. The equalising goal obtained by Everton was put on by Cooke, who in the opinion of nine out of every ten spectators was offside. Oliver got the better of an argument with Hampson after a stern struggle, and he put the ball forward to Cook, who was standing within six yards of the goal, and that player had no difficulty in scoring. Referee Hammond ignored Stanley’s claims for offside, to the surprise even of the home supporters. In the closing stages Stevenson shone resplendent in defending the Stanley goal. The game was as keenly contested as the one at Moorhead against Bury, though there was this difference-—Stanley’s superiority was not so pronounced as on that occasion. The state of the ground, as I have already said, was all against Stanley, and another factor was the energetic methods of the home team, who never hesitated at taking the man. For all that Stanley were the cleverer team, their footwork being neater and prettier than that of their opponents., Only the splendid defence of Wildman and Wright prevented Stanley from winning. They richly deserved the point they obtained, and though they failed to win deserve great credit for their performance. It is a curious thing that in four successive matches Stanley have been awarded a penalty kick, and the four have been the means of giving them victory on two occasions, and one point on the other. Had the one at St. Helens been converted it would have given them another point and afforded them a better lead in the Combination table.
One could not but admire the team for their wholehearted play on Saturday. Turner kept goal well and dealt with several dangerous shots. I don’t think Stevenson ever played a better game, his kicking in the closing stages being very clean and powerful. He and Hampson coped with the rushes of the Everton forwards most ably, and the pair deserve a mead of praise for their efforts. They never flinched, and came out of a trying ordeal well. Rigby was again a star artiste, and often came out triumphantly against the home team’s most dangerous wing. It was well also that Bradshaw was in his best form, for Oliver, the Everton centre, needed a lot of watching. Oliver made a re-appearance after a few week’s absence. Latterly he has assisted the first team, and in one League match registered three goals off his own boot, so that Bradshaw had a task of holding such a player, but the Stanley captain did not give him many opportunities.  Of the forwards the inside men were the shining lights. The trio gave of their best, and their neat work was a constant source of anxiety to the Everton defenders. Neither Stott nor Ashton were effective, both being frequently robbed: Ashton’s lack of weight and strength was for once noticeable, though he never lost anything for want of trying. Of the Everton team I was most impressed with the backs, and Cooke and Oliver of the front line. The Everton team, in fairness it ought to be stated, was a mixed team, several of the men being out of their regular places.

EVERTON CASUALTIES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 21 February 1906
OLIVER AND COOKE OF RESERVES HAVE TO BE CALLED ON
Bee
Last night the Everton directors met at the club offices, and chose the eleven for Saturday’s Cup tie with Bradford City. It was, of course, impossible for Donnachie to be selected again, as he is not yet registered for cup matches-twenty eight days-notice is necessary. Besides Sharp has so rapidly progressed that he is ready for service again. This is good news indeed, but there is the regular list of “Latest Casualties” to be recorded. How unfortunate the directors have been since Christmas can hardly be conceived. To meet the Yorkshire converts Oliver and Cooke have been chosen, owing to Settle and Young receiving slight fractures in last week’s match at Trent Bridge. The following is the full choice;- Scott; W. Balmer and Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott; Sharp, Bolton, Oliver, Cooke, and Hardman.

SCRAPS OF SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 21 February 1906
It is remarkable how many players who have played for Everton distinguish themselves when they leave Goodison-park. Kirwan and O’Hagan were prominent amongst the Irish forwards on Saturday against England and both men have been displaying great form in Southern football whilst Ashcroft showed that he is one of England’s foremost custodians, his consistent work during the season having caught the eyes of the football authorities. It is difficult to see who can supplant him in the great international against Scotland. All three men mentioned were formerly connected with the Everton club.

EVERTON’S PREPARATION
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 22 February 1906
Bee
There is little fresh from the Everton quarters. Bradford City are bringing a big force of supporters with them, and “Yorkshire” will be heard on all sides at Goodison on Saturday. Just the ordinary League training arrangements are being carried through, varied with walks to Hoylake. Donaldson and Black of the reserves are also under Trainer Elliott’s charge.

EVERTON v BRADFORD CITY
Bradford Daily Telegraph - Friday 23 February 1906
To-morrow the Bradford City enter upon the stiffest encounter they have yet had in the English Cup competition, and though the City’s chances of success are not very bright, yet it is no impossible task which they are set to perform. The Goodison Park club are an excellent combination, and the fact that they are at home in this round of the competition gives them a great advantage, but there are always chances in football, and the Bradford City Club does not usually fail to give a good account of itself when opposed to first-rate talent. The City men are all in good training after their stay at Blackpool, and they are far from being despondent as to their chances. The Everton club has had the misfortune to lose the services of three of four of their best men, and whilst they are yet able to put a good eleven in the field, the City Club have no reason to fear any overwhelming superiority. There is excellent talent in the Bradford team, and should it be applied as skilfully and confidently as in the Wolverhampton Wanderers’ match, we may yet see the Second Leaguers in the fourth round.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 23 February 1906
Everton entertain Bradford City at Goodison-park, and the Blues should prove capable of administering the “knock-out” to the second Division club. Although Settle and Young will not be able to turn out owing to injuries, the team on paper does not look a poor one, as Cooke, although of course not of Settle’s class, is a good man, whilst Oliver is as good as any man Everton can put in the centre at present. It may be mentioned that the 3s seats on the stand are being reserved, and the tickets may be obtained at Bullens-road.

PERCY HILL
Sheffield Evening Telegraph- Saturday 24 February 1906
Percy Hill, who is the latest addition to the ranks of the Everton team, has proved such a capable player at full back that he appears t have assured a permanent place in the team. Hill's first appearance in the team was due to illness and injury, and he has justified his inclusion to an unexpected degree. It was on the recommendation of Alfred Milward, Hill was introduced to Everton, for whom he first appeared against the Wolves on December 2 nd , playing also on New Year's Day ay Hyde Road against Manchester City. He again came into the team against Preston at Goodison Park, and has been in the team ever since. Hill was born at Salisbury in 1885, and was educated at King Edward's Grammar School, Southampton. At 11 he gained his place in the school team, and even in those early days played right back. After a season in the second eleven he was promoted to the first team, and during the last three year of his stay at the colleague was captain. After leaving school, Hill became connected with Southampton Cambridge, and was chosen skipper of the minor team, a position he held for three successive years. Several honours in local competition were secured by the club, and Hill found time during this same period to assist the Civil Service eleven, who gained first place in the Southampton and District Wednesday League. A year later he was promoted to the Southampton Cambridge junior team, where further honours were gained. He was frequently selected to represent his League against the chosen of other district Leagues, and was often appointed as captain of the side he assisted. Hill is a capable cricketer, and stands 5ft 10in. His weight is 11st.

EVERTON’S NEW DEFENDER.
Sheffield Evening Telegraph - Saturday 24 February 1906
PERCY HILL
Percy Hill, who is the latest addition to the ranks of the Everton team, has proved such a capable player at full back that he appears to have a permanent place in the team. Hill's first appearance in the team was due illness and injury, and he has justified his inclusion to an unexpected decree. It was on the recommendation of Alfred Milward Hill was introduced to Everton, for whom he first appeared against the Wolves on December 2nd, playing also on New Year's Day at Hyde Road against Manchester City. He again came into the team against Preston, at Goodison Park, and has been in the team ever since. Hill was born at Salisbury in 1885, and was educated at King Edward’s Grammar School, Southampton. At 11 he gained his place in the school team, and even in those early days played right back. After a season in the second eleven he was promoted to the first team, and during the last three years of his stay at the college was captain. After leaving school, Hill became connected with Southampton Cambridge, and was chosen skipper of the minor team, a position he held for three successive years. Several honours in local competitions were secured by his club, and Hill found time during this same period to assist the Civil Service eleven, who gained first place in the Southampton and District Wednesday League. A year later he was promoted to the Southampton Cambridge junior team, where further honours were gained. He was frequently selected represent his League against the chosen of other district Leagues, and was often appointed as captain the side he assisted. Hill is capable cricketer, and stands 5ft. 10in. His weight is 11 ½ st.

EVERTON v  BRADFORD CITY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 24 February 1906
ENGLISH CUP TIE
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
Dull and damp weather prevailed when the men from Bradford arrived at Goodison Park to-day to contest the right of the Evertonians to enter the last eight in the English Cup-ties. The Blues were without Young in the centre, and Settle to partner Hardman. Oliver made such an excellent show at Goodison Park on his first appearance that everyone was most anxious to see this form repeated, and as he is now on top terms, there was every reason why he should justify his reputation. Cook who partnered Hardman, is a distinguished member of the second team. Bolton was eligible to take part today, and a stiff game was looked forward to with the verdict in favour of the Blues.
At the moment of starting the weather was distinctly misty, both sides received a hearty greeting, and it was very evident the Tykes had a big following. The elevens were made up as follows;-
Everton.- Scott; Balmer, Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), Abbott; Sharp, Bolton, Oliver, Cooke, and Hardman, forwards.
Bradford.- Daw; Carter , Roberts; Robinson, Kirk, Miller; Clarke, McLean, Smith, McMillan, Conlin. Referee Mr. A. E. Farrant
The home captain won the toss, Smith kicking off towards the park goal. Everton at once tried their right wing, but it was only at the second attempt that Sharp got clear away. When he parted with the ball, however, it was captured and sent up to Smith, who passed out to his right, and Clarke tested Scott with a weak shot. Slackness on the part of the home backs allowed the visitors to force a corner, and after this had been cleared the Evertonians attacked along their left, Hardman scarcely showing to such advantage as usual. The Yorkshiremen commenced to prem again, and Smith slipped through merrily and the passed to Clarke, who shot over. Another burst by Everton was at the finish marred by Hardman’s misjudgement, but after this Taylor shot over, and another futile attempt came from Sharp. From the consequent corner both teams kept their footing in the Bradford half, but such a stern defence was put up by Kirk and Roberts that the attackers could get nowhere near goal. Clarke got away, but was beautifully beaten by Crelley, and on coming again he was pronounced offside. Following a free kick, Cook scraped the crossbar, and after the goal kick the Yorkshiremen made a general attack, Clarke sending to McMillan who shot over. Then the visitors came back along their left Makepeace and Balmer each being beaten, but Conlin missed the mark. The Everton recovered and pretty play was shown by Hardman and Cooke, but there was again want of judgement just at the moment when it was most needed. The visitors performed vigorously at the outset, but their rushing tactics were marred by faulty passing and erratic shooting. The Blues were almost equally at fault, but settled down sooner. After Crelly and Abbott had failed to initiate an attack, Conlin and McMillan forced an entrance into Everton’s territory, which Balmer ultimately checked, and a smart attack from Everton’s left terminated in Cook shooting over. The fog was gathering every minute, and the players were already fliting about like phantoms. At last Cook and Oliver diddled the Bradford backs but Daw ran out in time and cleared. The game was anything but classy. The attack was quite of the Cup-tie order on both sides, but the backs had so far proved very reliable. At last a clever pass from Makepeace to Bolton almost led to the fall of the Bradford citadel, Daw just forcing Bolton’s shot over the bar. The fog had now lifted as if by magic. A foul in favour of Bradford was cleared by Balmer and Abbott, but Makepeace and Bolton could not get the Blues in going order, and very soon Scott had to run out to one from McMillan. Then the Everton left was broken up by Kirk, and this was followed by McMillan having a shot, and then Abbott’s slowness led up to Scott being bunched in by Clarke, McGeachan, and Smith, but he emerged from a dangerous position cleverly. Within five minutes of the interval the Tykes had the best of matters on the whole. McMillan lost a grand chance, having an open goal after a lovely centre from Clarke. Good work by the home backs, and Abbott opened up an opportunity for Jack Sharpe, but he mulled it, and just on the interval Oliver nearly got through. Half-time score Everton Nil, Bradford City Nil
THE FOG DEMON APPEARS
BRADFORD CITY FORCE MATTERS
EVERTON ATATCK WEAK
BACKS DEFEND STUBBORNLY
THE FIRST HASLF WELL CONTESTED
VIGOROUS BUT UNSUCCESSFUL PLAY
SENSATIONAL FINISH
The commencement of the second half saw the Bradford men on the offensive, Smith shooting wide and Conlin following suit. A foul was given against Bolton, but the visitors gained no advantage form this, and just afterwards Makepeace made a grand clearance, the Everton men failing to profit thereby. Carter returned heavily, and the Yorkshiremen romped into Everton territory again, but when McMillan was preparing to shoot he was heavily brought down by Balmer. At the other end Taylor passed to Bolton, who in his turn sent too far forward, and just afterwards Everton forced a corner on the right. Bolton passed the ball to Makepeace, who made three or four desperate efforts to score, but Carter managed to clear his front. Sharp unluckily carried the ball over when going well. Then Carter sent his front rank on the move, and the leather was cleverly passed all along the line in brilliant fashion, but Clarke proved a traitor to his comrades by missing an easy pass. Very soon the Bradford left was busy again on the home defence proved equal to all emergencies. Taylor was playing best of the half-backs, and was here, there, and everywhere. Bolton next got stirring but Carter robbed him smartly, only to be dispossessed in turn by Hardman, who, however, put the ball outside. Then followed a stout Everton rush, which Daw stopped only by running out. Sharp and Oliver changed places, and at this time Conlin made a strong run, being hampered by Balmer in getting in a shot. On the opposite wing Kelly let in his opponents. Balmer was compelled to concede a corner, but the goal escaped capture. Then a foul was given against Taylor, but a general Everton attack followed, at the end of which Oliver was a trifle too late to receive a final pass. Conlin again tried his hand at goal shooting, and only succeeded in planting the leather over the crossbar. Taylor gave a long pass forward, and Sharp made a great dash, but failed to get up in time, and following this Abbott passed to Hardman, who carried the ball over the line. At the other end Scott saved a long shot from Clarke. Sharp was going in fine style, when he was brought down by Robinson, but although the free kick enabled the homesters to continue the move, nothing came of it. Shortly after Sharp got in a very good shot, which after a struggle in the goal mouth, was cleared away by Daw. Conlin and Makepeace had a fine race for the ball and the Tyke showed fine speed, but the Everton half had too much start. Within ten minutes of the finish the Tykes had well held their own, and Everton never looked like winning. The Tykes lost all their chances through primitive tactics, but did not impose on either of the home backs. Towards the close Everton livened up considerably, but the Bradford defence proved remarkably solid. Oliver forced a corner, and centred beautifully. Abbott heads on to the bar. Hard luck for Everton, but was followed by another lovely shot from Oliver, which forced a corner, and Makepeace scored brilliantly within two minutes off time, amid frantic applause.
Final Result;- Everton 1 goal, Bradford City Nil
THE GATE
The amount taken at the gates was £480, and the attendance was 18,000.

LUCKY WIN FOR EVERTON
Empire News & The Umpire - Sunday 25 February 1906
BRADFORD’S GAME EFFORT
MAKEPEACE THE MASTER
By C.E. Cutcliffe
If luck were the only deciding factor in the final destiny of the Cup, I should at once plump for a Liverpool club as winner. Yesterday Everton turned out for the third time in this season’s ties to face a club which, along with its predecessors, could only, as a matter of compliment, be regarded as “of the best.” Thus favoured by the luck of the draw, and remembering that of the teams in the hunt it is distinctly Everton’s turn out, Walton way I found them discussing the location of the Cup with all the assurance that destiny had this season assigned its possession to Everton. But- and oh, these buts! -in another way luck was not with them, for the club can count half a team of cripples, and to read a forward line like Sharp, Bolton, Oliver, Cook, and Hardman, seems to be but the fringe of an Everton front rank. I grant it is a good useful attraction, nay, dazzling fringe and as the forwards have their old backing and defence. Bradford City had no need to crow over catching Everton on the hop.
But let us see how the match worked out. See, did I say? At first it was decidedly difficult to see, for there was a thick mist, which looked like developing into a fog. The opening exchanges were lively for Everton, and Scott only just reached the ball in time to rob McGeachan of a likely opening, and it was soon evident that Bradford City meant business, for Conlin was in his trickiest mood, and Clarke was moving finely, whilst an injury to Hardman handicapped the home team, for he turned on again very lame. Excitement permeated both the players and the crowd, and a steadying influence was badly required. The City backs were given oceans of room and unhampered. Carter and Roberts kicked very finely, whilst, without getting too dangerous, the City team were manifesting more vitality and go. Then Sharp showed us how to work the ball up, and centring, Cooke had an accredited chance, but shot over. Then the fog thickened, and we saw figures cantering about in the mist Everton brightened up, and Bolton, getting through, tested Daw with a real teaser which he got away in masterly fashion for a corner. The end, nothing. Still Bolton was dashing and inspiriting, and, the fog lifting, we saw a much brighter game, Cooke almost initiating a score. Then Clarke, fed by McGeachan, sent in a centre, but McMillan failed to find a satisfactory billet, whilst Conlin, wriggling away, put a shot at close range over the bar. Then we had a good spell of clever play, but the forwards were not pushful enough, until we found Scott in possession, playing at roundabouts with several forwards, trying to get the ball away from him. At last he dropped it, but it was safely cleared. It looked as if neither team were likely to score, for they seldom worked into a scoring position, and at half time neither team could complain at a clean sheet, not for that matter could anybody else, though the pluck of the City men must be highly commended. But it is goals, and goals only that count, and so the second half started with this one end in view. It looked as if a goal was to be early on view, for McMillan should have done the trick, but dallied too long. Then Makepeace fought his way from a corner to within two yards of the post, only to return as he went Everton looked dissatisfied at the way things were going, and tried to force the pace, but, oh, the finishes! Shades of Steve Bloomer and Jimy Ross!
The Bradford section of the crowd was legion, and Conlin delighted them with some characteristically tricky runs, resulting in much pressure on the Everton goal without reaching the piercing point. For some reason or another Jack Sharp went centre, and Oliver took up the outside right position, but it only added to the disorganisation of an already weakened and ineffective line, and to add to the demoralisation of the team the halves tried first long kicking and then dodging, so that the possibilities of the game were shaping their ends towards a victory for City. Yet Jack Sharp brought Daw to his knees, and the latter nearly dallied too long, for Bolton made a desperate effort to charge him through. “What came ye, out for to see?” asked a friend close behind me. Well, we were not seeing it, so Sharp and Oliver changed back to their original positions with fifteen minutes to go. But the game went on as slack as ever. A good dose of vitaliser would have done the players all the good in the work. As we neared the end Everton did waken up, or rather the halves did. Makepeace threading through, and taking up a position usually filled by the inside right, found an opening, and scored in the last minute. It was a near thing for Everton- it was rank bad luck for Bradford City.
It was a spiritless, limp game, so tame that you could hardly realise it was a Cup-tie. The defence throughout was far better than the attack, though hardly a player in defence rose to any startling eminence. Dealing with the winners first, Scott can be soon disposed of. He had little to do, and except the one instance I have referred to, when he almost fettered himself in a knot, did it well. Balmer and Crelly were fair, though at times faulty. Makepeace was the best half on the field, though Taylor kept pegging at it, and at times tried to enthuse his forwards, but in vain. Makepeace was also the best forward. Seems odd, but it’s true; for Daw’s most anxious moments came, and the only goal came, when Harry Makepeace had usurped a position amongst his forwards. Of the rest, neither Sharp not Hardman played up to form, and the three inside men were far poorer than many players in our Lancashire Combination clubs.
On the City side, I have never seen Daw do better. Carter was the best back on the field. Roberts was fearless but reckless, his kicks usually finding touch. The halves were all good, Kirk at centre, getting through a lot of work. Clark was too uncertain, and Conlin was a long way the best of the forwards, McMillian missing too many chances; in fact, he spoiled his copy book. Everton won, thanks to Makepeace. Bradford City did not deserve to lose. Some day they will win when they don’t deserve. These things level up, and in asking my Bradford friends to accept their defeat philosophically, I can honestly say they deserved a better fate.

EVERTON’S FORTUNATE SUCCESS
Athletic News - Monday 26 February 1906
By Junius
For eight-nine minutes, Everton and Bradford City struggled with varying degrees of success to gain a goal in the Cup-tie at Goodison Park, and on the balance of play I consider the visitors were entitled to the lead. In the last minute Makepeace managed to place the ball past Daw, and Everton thus qualified for the next round. That they were fortunate in so doing, I think the most biased partisans will admit, for Bradford had shown superior work in midfield, and fully deserved a share of the honours. Still neither set of forwards seemed able to send in a decent shot, and the only goal was obtained from a loose scrimmage just when everybody had convinced themselves that a draw would be the result. Everton, however, have a penchant for playing strongly to the finish, and although they had displayed feeble form throughout the greater portion of the contest, there was always a feeling that they might prevail by a sudden rush. This they accomplished, but their success cannot raise any feeling of confidence for their future welfare, though it must be stated that they were without two on their usual forwards, and the presence of Settle would, undoubtedly, have effected a great improvement.
FORWARDS WHO COULD SOT SHOOT.
Bradford had a greater share of the play than the home team. Had their forwards been able to shoot, a different tale might now have to be told, though, curiously enough, this was the outstanding weakness on the home side, and the respective custodians had little to do. Judging from the exhibition given by Daw, I should say it was fortunate for Bradford that he was so ably covered by his backs, for the feeble shots he had to clear were not skillfully accomplished, and he did not create confidence by the dilatory manner in which he dealt with the half-hearted attempts to beat him. In midfield Bradford were the better side, and the extreme wing forwards were a long way ahead of their confreres in point of ability. Smith was moderate in the centre, and a strong bustling player in this position would have made more of the frequent chances which often came across from Conlin and Clarke. One the features of the game was the utter inability of the inside forwards to profit by their opportunities. Rarely indeed was a shot sent in that seemed like finding the net, and both sides were equally culpable in this respect.
A DRAMATIC FINISH.
After having battled successfully for eighty nine-ninetieths it was hard luck for Bradford to succumb just when visions of a replay at Valley Parade were almost a certainty. A long return from Balmer followed a couple of well-placed corners kicks by Sharp; thence ensued an exciting tussle near the Bradford goal, and Makepeace managing to get to the ball tipped it over the line on the stroke of time. It was a dramatic finish, and the cheering was vociferous, for such a termination was, utterly unexpected, but I must confess to a feeling of sympathy with the plucky Bradfordians, who had the play entitled themselves to immunity from defeat. I really saw little to cheer about.
WHAT IS THE MATTR WITH EVERTON?
On the other hand, it must be admitted that Everton were not seen to advantage and this not solely on account of the superiority of their opponents. The enforced introduction of Oliver was an absolute failure, and his display completely upset all notions of combination. In the second half Sharp changed places with him for about fifteen minutes, but the right winger eventually returned to his proper place. The forwards never moved along in anything like concerted fashion. On the extremities Sharp and Hardman did many smart things, but good football in the attack wee impossible, for the inside players could do nothing right. Cooke dad not shape as promisingly as had been expected, and there was a lack of finer points of the game which Everton are accustomed to display.
THE GOODISON HEROS
Neither Can I compliment the Everton half-backs upon their performances, for Taylor, who is usually one of the most effective line, was far removed from his best, and Abbott was oftener beaten by Clarke than had been expected. Makepeace was the most prominent, and he earned the gratitude of his comrades by scoring the goal which carried Everton into the next round. Crelley was the better of the backs, his cool tackling being often in evidence, and Scott was seldom called upon. His most difficult shots came from the wings, and these caused him little trouble, a state of affairs which applies with equal force to his vis-a-vis.
RARE FIGHT BY BRADFORD.
Bradford emerged from the ordeal with credit, and I feel justified in expressing the opinion that had they been able replay at home they would have been victorious. Their extreme wing forwards, Conlin and Clarke, were speedy and clever, but I consider they made a mistake in starving their outside right to the benefit Conlin in the second half. The latter showed very creditable football, and invariably made headway when in possession, but Clarke exhibited a capital turn speed, and finished his runs better than the outside left. Smith was weak in the centre, and this exerted a marked influence on the Issue, for a strong leader would have done damage before the interval, with the chances that came forth.
A TRIBUTE THE TYKES."
Worriers and terriers were the half-backs, and none more so than Robinson, who never ceased In his efforts. Millar also played capitally, while further behind Roberts and Carter kicked most powerfully and yet accurately. They never showed signs of faltering, and by so doing displayed great judgment. The “Tyke"’ are to be complimented upon putting up a rare fight, and though beaten they have the satisfaction of knowing that their reputation has been enhanced and not diminished by their display. Everton’s only solace is that they won. Everton; Scott; Balmer (W.), Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, Bolton, Oliver, Cooke, and H.P. Hardman.  Bradford City; Daw; Cater, Roberts; Robinson, Kirk, Miller; Clarke, McGeachan, Smith, McMillian, and Conlin.  Referee; A.E. Farrant, Bristol. 

EVERTON 1 BRADFORD CITY 0 (Fa Cup Game 54)
February 26, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
EVERTON LUCKY.
It was a remarkable match, which was seen at Goodison-park on Saturday. In view of the positions when the clubs hold in the football world, one would have imagined that Everton would have had no difficulty in winning the English Cup tie with Bradford City. Yet they only gained the verdict by a goal to nil- a goal too scored in the last minute of play. Admittedly Bradford City seen decidedly unfortunate in being deprived of the opportunity of playing the match on they own ground. The Second Leaguers are to be long remembered for their gallant fight when they made Everton. For practically 89 minutes succeeded in their objective, they should have been eventually beaten.
A DISAPPOINTING MATCH.
Bradford City brought with then a large number of supporters, who made their presence heard for some time before the match begin. A events turned out, they had numerous opportunities of displaying their vocal vigour, for they neglected no chance of encouraging their favourites in their commendable efforts to share the honours with the Evertonians. The game commenced under unpleasant atmospheric conditions, and at one time the fog was so intense that it appeared probable that the match would not be contested. Happily the fog cleared away as quickly as it came, and brilliant sunshine prevailed during the rest of the proceedings. Quite early on it was evident that Bradford City meant to die game. They had little hope of victory, but their one aim was to keep the Blues from finding the net. They defended with the utmost gallantry, and as a matter of fact, if they had taken advantage of opening they might have caused very considerable trouble to the home defence. The Everton attack was much below par, and some of their efforts were quite unworthy of a team of their pretensions. It was disappointing to their supporters that no score was forthcoming at the interval, but, remembering the Chesterfield experience, they fondly hoped that the second half would see the Yorkshire swamped. This however, was far from being realised, for Bradford City quite as many chances as Everton. Sharp and Oliver for a time changed places without any additional left being imparted to the Everton attack, and when a draw seemed almost certainty it fell to the lot of one of the half-backs- Makepeace- to score what was so valuable a goal for his side.
CONCERNING THE PLAYERS.
The match was throughout disappointing, certainly as far as Everton were concerned. The teams have given not a few indifferent displays this season, but it is questionable if they have been seen to such disadvantage, as was the case on Saturday. The forwards never settled down to really effective work, and Oliver's re-inclusion in the front line was by no means success. He failed lamentably to control the wings, and even when he changed places with Sharp he was no better. Still, he was not the only sinner, for the line as a whole was completely out of gear. Hardman owing to injury, was not able to do himself full justice, and Sharp was not as usual, while the inside men,Bolton and Cook, only attained moderate standard. The half-backs too, failed to reach their customary excellence, Makepeace being the best of the trio. Crelly was more resourceful than Balmer and Scott accomplished all that was required of him in finished style. Bradford City were especially strong in defence, Carter probably being the most resourceful back on the field. The halves did capital work, and while Conlin give a dashing display on the outside left, it would probably have been better for Bradford City if Clarke's fine turn of speed been more frequently requisitioned. Teams Everton: - Scott goal, W.Balmer and Crelly, backs, Makepeace, Taylor (Captain), and Abbott, half-backs, Sharp, Bolton, Oliver, Cook, and Hardman, forwards. Bradford City: - Daw, goal Carter, and Roberts, backs, Robinson, Kirk, and Miller, half-backs, Clarke, McLean Smith, McMillian, and Conlin forwards. Referee A.E.Conlin.

BRADFORD CITY’S DEFEAT EVERTON
Bradford Daily Telegraph - Monday 26 February 1906
It was the hardest of hard lines that Bradford City should lose on Saturday at Everton in the third round of the English Cup competition. If ever a game ought on the merits of the respective teams to have ended in a draw it was that between Bradford City and Everton at Goodison Park at one period of the game the City Club more than held their own, and it was only in the last minute that the one and only goal of the match was scored. A comparison of the two sets of players showed that the Second Leaguers were quite as good as their Senior League opponents at back, and in the forward line, and at half back they were superior. In the Everton front rank the best man was Sharp on the outside right wing, but City had a better individual player on the left wing in Conlin. Yet the home front was rather better as a whole than that of Bradford, inasmuch as they made better use of their opportunities to shoot for goal. The game throughout was one in which the chief credit belonged to the half backs. Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott were a good trio, the first mentioned being particularly watchful of the Conlin-McMillan combination, but the City’s three were their masters in worrying tactics and in placing, and all of them played a great game. The two City backs were also much steadier than usual. Carter kicking cleanly and smartly, and Roberts, along with Millar, breaking up the smart right wing of Everton time after time. The Bradford men missed more chances than their opponents, and twice in each half there were opportunities to score which were not accepted. Taken all through, however, the quality of football played was not so good as either team can give. It is usually the case in cup ties that the excitement proves too much for the players, and the usual smart confident passing is absent just when it is most necessary. Saturday’s game at Everton was another example of that, and though it was a very hard game for the players, it was not by any means so pretty a display of football as can be seen in the League competitions. The Bradford men had the sympathy of a large section of the spectators in addition to their own supporters, for their play was good value for at least a draw.

IN THE HAT A FOURTH TIME
Liverpool Echo - Monday 26 February 1906
Bee
Everton were the victors but-well perhaps they deserved it. From the outset the half backs on either side were the dominating factor, and thus although a good deal of praiseworthy football was men in midfield, Sharp went centre forward-a mistake in my view- for he was not successful, and the right wing and centre were now both weak. Nevertheless upon one occasion Kirk stooped to foul tactics topull up the volatile winger, who soon returned to his accustomed berth, and he, Bolton, and Makepeace made strenuous efforts to gain the lead. The major portion of the brains of the forward line seemed concentrated in Bolton, who time and again made clear openings for the leaden-footed Oliver, who consistently lost every opportunity. Time was getting valuable and the Everton men played desperately, but every attack was repulsed; perhaps by methods more effective than polished, but still repulsed. Makepeace carried the ball through friend and fee to within half a yard of goal, where some six of the opposition simply smothered him, and a humorous note was struck when Hardman hastened to place the ball for a goal-kick to avoid waste of time! The leather-lunged supporters of the Wool-staplers were jubilant at the prospect of a draw, and less than two minutes remained to play when a bolt from the “blue” fell.
Once more had Bolton pushed the ball forward for Oliver and the latter, with ample opportunity, hesitated to centre, and followed the ball to the goal-line. Here Roberts settled the matter for him by granting a corner kick. Makepeace took this, and, following a scrimmage the ball returned to him, and, with a brilliant oblique shot he landed the ball past Daw to the accompaniment of shrieks of applause. The heavens were rent, Makepeace smoothened in the embrace of his comrades, and Bradford’s hopes fell to zero. And so the story is told, and to Makepeace is the honour. Sharp and Bolton were intelligently clever throughout and the speed of one added to the brains of the other gave the Bradford defence many anxious moments. Hardman was injured in the first half, and never subsequently reached his own standard of play. Cooke friezes on to the ball, and Oliver was a failure, pure and simple. I am sorry to say it, because I think he felt the position keenly. Bradford played like men imbued with one idea-what we have done we may do again. Conlin stood out by himself lighter even than Hardman. He is as slender as a read; with the ball he is an artist, and once in possession he never failed to make ground and part to advantage.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 26 February 1906
Everton supporters received a shock on Saturday during the game at Goodison-park, as it looked as though the Bradford team would gain the right to re-play on their own ground. Just as the spectators had made up their minds that a re-play would be necessary, however, Harry Makepeace put on one of the most valuable goals he has ever scored. The visitors were decidedly unlucky in losing, for they played a great defensive game. They devoted 'most of their efforts to preventing Everton from scoring, and they were decidedly unfortunate, after succeeding in the main object for 89 minutes, in having the defence pierced in the last minute of the game. As for the play of the Everton team, it must be said that the Blues have seldom been seen at such disadvantage. The forwards were decidedly poor, more than one player being quite unworthy of the team they represent. One thing is certain, if the Blues are to go any further in the cup a great improvement on Saturday's display will have to be shown.
The draw in the Fourth round of the English Football Cup competition took place this afternoon with the following result;-
Everton v Sheffield Wednesday
Liverpool v Southampton
Manchester United v Woolwich Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur or Birmingham v Newcastle United
The matches are to be played on March 10th on the grounds of the first-named clubs. It is gratifying to the supporters of the local clubs to find not only that they are both drawn to play on their own enclosure, but that they have again had the luck to steer clear of one another.

GOSSIP ABOUT THE CUP DRAW AND CLUBS CHANCES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 27 February 1906
Bee
Sheffield Wednesday have never won a League match at Goodison Park, and Manchester City, in the year they won the trophy, crushed them on this playing space. So that we can draw this conclusion -that Wednesday have not found Goodison a happy hunting ground. On the other hand, I am greatly fearing that Everton will be hard put to win. You see they will not have the services of Settle and possibly Young, and Donnachie I suppose, would be ineligible, as three weeks will have passed since his transfer, whereas twenty-eight days’ notice is necessary. This means that the eleven as played last week, with one exception, is the best at the command of the unfortunate directorate. And is that composition likely to beat Sheffield Wednesday? I hope so; I fear not. This is a Sheffield comment on the Goodison tie;-
Two years ago Sheffield Wednesday were called upon to take part in a semi-final tie at the Goodison Park ground, only to be run off their feet and thoroughly well beaten by Manchester City, who went on to victory in the final. This time, however, Sheffield Wednesday will be found a very different side, and one surely capable of giving Everton a very hard match even at Goodison Park. The form of the Everton team in recent weeks has bene anything but great and the fact that Bradford City only went down in the last two minutes of Saturday’s Cup tie does not suggest too much difficulty for the Sheffielders. It would be idle to suggest that Wednesday are sure to win, for no match away from home in the Cup may be looked upon with anything but anxiety, but these who have watched the form of the teams during the last month cannot but come to the conclusion that Wednesday’s is superior to that of Everton. Curiously enough various Wednesday directors after the Forest match, expressed a hope that they would be drawn to play ay Goodison Park.
The F.A Committee prior to the drawwent out of their way to indicate that the Wednesday Club will have been punished sufficiently and decided in the event of Wednesday being drawn first, and so compelled to play on the ground of its opponents, and there played a draw, that the replayed match should be decided as though Wednesday had not had choice of ground in the original instance.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 27 February 1906
As for the Everton-Sheffield Wednesday match, it must be said that the Blues will have to show a great improvement on recent form if they are to overcome the Blades. The latter team showed at Anfield recently that they are a great eleven and likely to defeat Everton unless, as previously stated, the Blues find that form which has been missing for so long. It is to be hoped that Young and Co. will come out of their shells on March 10th. One thing would seem to be greatly in Everton's favour—the fact that Sheffield Wednesday have never won a League match at Goodison-park. Let the Blues cheer up and prevent the Sheffielders from breaking their own record. If the Cup does not find a resting place in Lancashire this season, no blame can be attached to Dame Fortune.

EVERTON F.C MOURN THE ABSENCE OF TWO BRILLIANT
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 28 February 1906
Bee
Everton partisans are deeply anxious that the Blues should make their way to the Palace of Delight now that their League efforts have failed, and naturally last Saturday’s showing has left an unfavourable impression, and this is increased by the knowledge that Bradford were beaten on their own ground, yesterday. A correspondent says one player ought to have extended his holidays and argues afterwards round the district which has produced such as W and R. Balmer, Crelley, and Makepeace, Parkinson, Carlin, Ashcroft, Struthers, &c., “Villa got a team of locals to win a Cup for them; why cannot it be done in Liverpool?” continues the writer.
Then another “Appleton” by nom do plume suggests that the directorate be not afraid to launch out a good sum for  good, big player, and instance the value of Common to Middlesbrough. Spectators at Everton pay up their money each week (he goes on to say) and are entitled to better sport; and what have they done to get a centre forward for either first or second eleven?
I know this, “Appleton,” the directors are alive to the needs of the team, and that again last Saturday there were pilgrimages into certain quarters with a view to strengthening them, but, honestly, they have not had the best of fortune in seeking players.
This morning after writing the above, I learn of further Everton disaster. The cup of bitterness is filled to overflowing. Hardman, whose ankle broke down in last week’s encounter has been obliqued to cry off for Saturday and jack Sharp is still troubled with muscles of the thigh, and is almost certain not to play at Bolton. This means, then that Sharp, Young, Settle and Hardman of the regular forwards are unfit and Bolton alone will turn out! It is extraordinary and what is worse it is extremely unfortunate. Would the critic of the directorate scare to select a strong team this week?