MIDDLESBROUGH 0 EVERTON 0
January 1, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
A TAME GAME.
Having lost three games in succession, Everton supplied their followers with a crumb of comfort by effecting a draw at Middlesbrough. In one respect this performance is notable, in as much as strange to say, the Evertonians have yet to register their first goal on Middlesbrough's ground. The point they secured on Saturday was the outcome of a decidedly tame game, in which neither side was able to find the net. Indeed if such exhibitions were of frequent occurrences the popularity of the Association code would soon be a diminishing quantity. Perhaps the comparative Luke warmness of the opposing teams was due to the demands, which at holiday times are made upon League players. But when every allowances is made there can be no valid excuse for such an indifferent exhibition as was witnessed. True, the ground was in very sticky conditions and in this way militated against the speedy men producing their best form, but even this cannot account for the lifelessness of the encounter.

SCOTT SAVES HIS SIDE.
Neither side was able to place its full strength in the field. Everton bringing in W.Balmer, Black, and Grundy, while Middlesbrough relied upon McCallum and Thackeray in place of Hogg and Coxon. Winning the toss. Everton elected to play facing the brilliant sun, for what reason it was not quite apparent. The home team were the first to became aggressive, and the curiously enough, one of the new man in Thackeray was early on the most conspicuous figure in the home attack. He tackled effectively, and whenever the slightest chance came his way he banged the ball in towards goal in creditable style. Indeed it was lucky for Everton that Scott was in his happiest vein. Nothing came amies to him, and it was almost entirely owing to his efforts that the somewhat spasmodic onslaughts of the home quintette did not materialise. All this time Everton failed even to call upon Williamson to handle the ball; indeed it was approaching half-time before Black tested him at all. After changing ends there was some improvement on the part of the Everton front line, but apart from Sharp, there was never any likelihood of the Middlesbrough goal being captured. What work he had to do he accounted for cleverly. Middlesbrough pressed hotly towards the close, but with a defence holding out they had to be content with the honours of a goalless draw. Unquestionably Scott's splendid work robbed the Teeside club of maximum points.

WILLIAM BLACK OF EVERTON
Athletic News - Monday 01 January 1906
Despite the weaknesses in other departments of their team, Everton possess many capable half-backs. William Black, who was tried in the League eleven for the first time September 16 against Newcastle United at Goodison, seems likely to maintain the traditions of intermediate line. He was born the Island of Mull in 1883, and when seventeen years of age joined a junior club named Enfield Star, one the teams in the suburbs of Motherwell. For twelve months he played right half-back, and then became attached to Dalziel Rovers, who were members of the Lanarkshire League. He represented his League against the Irish juniors, and in the same fixture a year later, captained the side. After a stay of two seasons, he transferred his services to Queen’s Park, and as left half-back assisted the famous amateur team in their League fixtures. At the commencement of the campaign of 1904-5, joined the Celtic, and as right or left halt-back often did duty as the occasion required. At the close of last season was engaged by Everton, and in the trial games at Goodison gave promise of developing into a more than average player. As already stated, he got his chance against Newcastle, and performed very creditably. He was not, however, afforded another opportunity until Christmas Day, when he was selected for the left half-back position at Bury, and the following day appeared in the return fixture at Goodison. Each of these three games were lost by Everton, so that his early experiences have not been happy. He is well built, standing 5ft 10in., and weighing 11st. Possessing a good idea of combining with the men in the front rank, whom he plies with forward ground passes, and  enjoying a useful turn of speed,  he should, with wider experience, become a prominent factor in the League eleven.

MIDDLESBROUGH IMPROVING.
Athletic News - Monday 01 January 1906
By Cyclops
Nothing could have more effectually whetted the appetite for football fare at Ayresome Park on Saturday than the form recently shown by the respective representatives of Tees and Mersey. Everton although much the better placed, have been very variable in their general performances. Middleborough, on the other hand, after a long depressing experience, had manifested quite a revival during the last six weeks. It was therefore not tor surprising that a gate of 15,000 were in attendance. Their three Christmas holiday fixtures had yielded them as many points; whilst Everton had been put under subjection by Nottingham Forest and Bury—by the latter on consecutive days. This led to the hope and even expectation that the home team would again add points to their score. It was therefore not surprising that gate 15,000 were in attendance. Hogg not having recovered from his injuries sustained at Birmingham, stood down in favour of McCallum, while the home left wing was composed of Thackeray and Reid, in place of Coxon and Thompson. Everton's team was also considerably weakened, Abbott and Hardman being noticeable absentees, Black acting substitute to the former, whilst Grundy partnered Settle on the left. The spectators had little enthuse about during the first fifteen minutes as both teams finished up very weakly in front of goal, the one redeeming feature of the play being that swinging centres from the toe of Thackeray which were put in from time to time. Once Aitken drove in a terrific shot from Thackeray middling, Scott throwing himself at the ball and effecting a marvelous clearance at the expense of a corner.  Grundy, who made the initial League appearance for Everton, repeatedly spoilt his comrades efforts by infringements of the off-side rule.  Middlesbrough commenced a well-sustained attack, and profiting by the weakness of W. Balmer, Reid and Thackeray continually menaced the downfall of Everton’s goal, but owing to the ineffectiveness of the home forwards and the brilliant exhibition given by Scott in goal the Mersey men’s defence was kept intact.  Sharp, who was the only Everton forward to make headway, came down the wing in brilliant style easily beating Agnew, and he looked all over a scorer when Davidson who had been playing a most judicious game, frustrated the immediate danger by conceding a corner, which was not improved upon.  Middlesbrough practically pressed incessantly but the Everton defenders picked up wonderfully after the interval, and were equal to all demands made upon them. True, the home quintette were a source of irritable danger to the Everton defenders, but they appeared to work aimlessly, and their efforts lacked purpose.  Thackeray, who, at the commencement of the game, pleased the critics with his swinging centres, should have put the issue beyond doubt, as twice during the second half he was put in possession almost on the goal line, but each time he failed miserably, kicking the ball high over the bar.  Williamson did his allotted work in sound style.  The backs however, left plenty of room for improvement, Agnew being too often guilty of ballooning the ball.  They were fortunate to find the intermediate line on excellent terms with themselves. Aitken again coming in for well-earned praise for the manner in which he filled the centre-half position, whilst he was ably backed up by his confreres, Henderson and Davidson.  The Christmas fixtures appeared to have taken a lot of the dash out of the forwards.  Common not being noticeable for his accustomed energy and vim. The right wing, Green and Hewitt were the pick of the five but before the finish Green held out signals of distress.  For the visitors, Scott kept his goal in gallant style, and he was the medium of saving his side from defeat.  The backs opened out weakly, but they retrieved themselves in the second half, when they gallantly kept the home forwards at bay.  Booth was the pick of the half-backs, and it was very seldom that he was found wanting when called upon.  Sharp stood out as the only dangerous forward of his side, treating the crowd several times to the exceptionally brilliant runs for which he is noted.  Middlesbrough; Williamson; McCallum, Agnew; Henderson, Aitken, Davidson; Green, Hewitt, Common, Reid, and Thackeray.  Everton; Scott; W. Balmer, R. Balmer; Taylor, Booth, Black; Sharp, Makepeace, Young, Settle, and Grundy.  Referee; Mr. D.G. Ashworth, Rossendale. 

EVERTON SHOW IMPROVEMENT.
Athletic News - Monday 01 January 1906
By Junius
In order to be in readiness for the return League fixture at Middlesbrough, the Everton players journeyed to Harrogate on Friday afternoon, from whence they resorted to Teesside on the morning of the match. By sharing the points, they effected a gain in comparison with the corresponding game last season, when they were narrowly beaten, and for such small mercy the followers of the club will doubtless be extremely grateful. Grundy, a local youth, who hails from Neston, and who has shown promising form with reserve team, was tried at outside left vice Hardman, and did not shape at all badly. Hardman has been slightly off colour recently and in the Nomads match on Thursday performed very moderately. The rest would doubtless be welcome, and he will play against Manchester City to-day at Hyde-road. For the third time this season the defence maintained its integrity, and as Everton have now only eight League matches to play away from home, they may even yet secure a respectable position in the League table. The form shown recently scarcely warrants any such anticipation and the only department in the team which has given unalloyed satisfaction this season is the half-back line. New fortune may come with the New Tear.

INDIFFERENT FORWARD PLAY.
As has been indicated the Evertonians failed lamentably to maintain the playing prestige of the club. Evidently they have struck a very bad patch, and the sooner a decided change for the better is made the more pleased will be their loyal band of supporters. With the resources at command, surely it is possible for the club to provide a team, clever enough and whole hearted enough to sustain an interest and maintain a position amongst the most successful clubs in the League. Sharp alone of the forwards did himself anything like justice although for a first appearance Grundy showed that he is capable of filling the outside left position with a certain amount of distinction. As for Young he seems to have lost all his old form. For a player of his ability some of his attempts to utilise chances bordered on the ludicrous, and apparently Everton will still be disappointing until they are fortunate enough to secure a reliable and dashing pivot. The half backs were good with on being over prominent while the brothers Balmer have given more satisfactory exhibitions. As for the Middlesbrough team their strength was at half-back. In the forward line the expensive, Common was a dismal failure. Thackeray, and Reid being by fair the most effective. Altogether it was a game in which neither set of players had much to boast about. Teams: - Middlesbrough: - Williamson goal, McCallum, and Agnew, backs Henderson, Aitken (Captain), and Davidson half-backs, Green, Hewitt, Common, Reid, and Thackeray, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and R.Balmer, backs, Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Black, half-backs, Sharp, Makepeace, Young, Settle, and Grundy, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 3 SOUTHPORT CENTRAL 1
January 1, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 20)
Everton added two more points to their already fine record on Saturday, when Southport Central provided the opposition at Goodison-park. The Sand-grounders, despite their lowly position in the table (bottom) put in a good fight, and but for their weak forward play when close to goal, would have made the result closer' than it was. Still Everton were the better side, and deserved their victory. Early on Rankin beat Rimmer, and after Smith had missed a good opening at the other end, Dilly hit the post with a shot that was beating Rimmer all the way. Had the Central forwards subsequently shown steadiness in front of goal they would have equalised, but their failed, and Cooke put on a second point for the Blues. After further misses by the Southport forwards, Smith managed to get a goal in the second half, but Rankin put on another goal for Everton from a penalty kick, and the Central retired defeated by three goals to one. Both sets of defenders gave a good account of themselves, and neither goalkeeper had any chance with the shots that scored. Where Everton had the advantage was in the better work of the forwards, for the Central spoilt many good openings. Chiefly through over-eagerness to get goals. Abram, Smith, and McGuigan did well, and the Sand-grounders, if their present teams as Yesterday, will make progress in the competition. Everton: - Collins, goal, Hill, and Hannaon, backs, Chadwick, Wright, and Donaldson half-backs, Birnie, Rankin, Quinn, Cooke, and Butler, forwards.

MANCHESTER CITY v  EVERTON
Manchester Evening News - Monday 01 January 1906
The last of Manchester city’s holiday fixtures attracted another gathering to Hyde Road this afternoon, there being at least 25,000 people present when the game with Everton began. The weather, though cold, was beautiful fine, and the ground was in capital conditions. Unfortunately for City, they were not only without McMahon and Livingstone, but Hynds was also an absentee. This involved a rearrangement at the half-back line, Frost being reintroduced. The visitors were also without R. Balmer, in whose place Hill appeared, but this disadvantage was counteracted by the fact that Harmans was able to play. The teams were, therefore as follow;-
Manchester City; Edmondson, goal; Norgrove and Burgess (captain), backs; Frost, Buchan, and Banks, half-backs; Dorsett, Bannister, Thomley, Turnbull, and Booth forwards.
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and Hill, backs; Taylor, Booth (captain), and Black, half-backs; Sharp, Makepeace, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Referee, Mr. W. Hargreaves, Blackpool.
THE GAME
Burgess, who captained the team for the first time, won the toss, and City played with a fairly brisk wind at their backs. There was nothing much to choose between the teams to start with, play being of an open and rather desultory character. Gradually, however, the home players asserted themselves, and following a free kick, a dangerous attack was made on the Everton goal, but Balmer kicked away a shot from Turnbull. Burgess very cleverly checked the Everton forwards, and Frost crossed the ball, but failed to allow for the wind, and it went out of play. City continued to force the play, but Scott was only once called upon, he having to kick away a rolling shot from Booth. The City pressed continuously, but more by good luck than good management Everton survived. Corners were taken on both wings, but although the City looked like scoring any moment, Scott had very little to do. An oblique shot by Booth had the Everton goalkeeper beaten all over the place, as the saying is, but unfortunately for the City the ball travelled across the goal-mouth, and went less than a yard wide of the post. The Everton forwards, playing a very indifferent game, continued to open out the play, but the City defence was altogether too good for them, Burgess being conspicuous for very good work.
FUTILE EFFORTS
The Everton goal continued to have a series of remarkable escapes, and it was really wonderful at times how the City players missed scoring. On one occasion Bannister when well in front of goal put in a left foot shot, which looked like scoring all the way, but the ball struck the bottom of the right post, and bounced across the goalmouth. Both Turnbull and Booth made a big effort to get to it, but Balmer got there first. Everton, however, could not keep a foothold in the City half, and the game resolved itself into a continuous bombardment of the visitors’ goal. The game continued to go all one way, but the City players only made chances to thrown them away, and though Everton rarely attacked, they were invariably more dangerous than the home side. On one occasion Sharp dropped in a centre from which Settle might have scored, but he missed the ball, and Hardman, who next had the chance, followed his bad example. When City got to the other end again, Booth was very well placed, but he made a wretched attempt, sending the ball yards wide. Everton had just opened out their game when the interval arrived, neither side having scored.
THE SECOND HALF
Soon after the game had been resumed Everton, with the wind at their backs, made a desperate attack on the City goal, and but for a remarkable save by Edmundson they would have scored. Twice the ball was sent in from very short range, once by Young, who tried to hook the ball out of the reach of the City goalkeeper, but Edmondson knocked it down with his right hand, and on the rebound got it away in masterly fashion. Then City forced ahead, and Dorsett screwed in a long shot, which Scott cleverly fisted out. A minute later Booth had a chance second to none, but once more he failed in lamentable fashion, sending very wide. The City were showing better form against the wind than they had done with it but the old failing in front of goal was again In evidence, not a single forward showing steadiness when it came to making a shot. Scott was twice called upon, but he had no difficulty in clearing.
CITY SCORE AT LAST.
City still held the upper hand, however, and just when it looked as if they never would score Booth got in a nice centre, and Thornley fastening on the ball, shouldered off Balmer and with a tremendous shot gave Scott no chance whatever, opening the score 20 minutes after the interval. This put more life into the game, Everton making a desperate rush down the right wing. Sharp screwed in a good shot, but Edmondson caught the ball, and throwing away, started City on another raid, in which Turnbull might have scored, but with only Scott to beat he shot high over the bar. Sharp forced a corner, which was beautifully placed, but Banks got in a kick just at the critical moment, and the game was an open one for some time afterwards.
MY KEEP THE UPPER HAND.
Everton were playing a very indifferent game, the only man who showed anything like his true form being Tom Booth, without whom the visitors would indeed have been a sorry side. After a brief stoppage owing to Thornley and Turnbull colliding. City swarmed round the Everton goal, and Dorsett made a terrific drive, which was luckily charged down. He met the ball on the rebound and shot again, but once more the ball struck a defender. Ten minutes from the close Everton made a very determined effort to equalise, and in the midst of a scrimmage which followed a corner Frost was injured, but he was soon able to resume. City kept the upper hand to the close, and were pressing hotly when time came with the score: Manchester City 1 Everton 0.

EVERTON v MANCHESTER CITY
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 01 January 1906
LEAGUE-FIRST DIVISION
A WELL-CONTESTED GAME
ANOTEHR DEFEAT FOR EVERTON
For their New Year's match with Manchester City, at Hyde-road, to-day, Everton, unfortunately, were unable to place anything like a representative team in the field. Injuries had been so numerous that an hour before the game ought to have commenced the team had not been selected. R. Balmer, Crelly, and Abbott were declared unable to turn out, and there was a doubt as to the fitness of certain of the reserve players. Under these circumstances any chance of success which the Evertonians might, under normal conditions, have possessed was considerably discounted. Troubles rarely come singly, and it must be confessed that the Everton Club have undergone during the holidays, and are undergoing, a somewhat bitter experience. The players spent the week-end at Harrogate, and arrived in Manchester this morning in good time for the match, which was timed to commence at 2 30. There was a big holiday crowd to witness the match, and twenty minutes before the kick-off all the available spaces seemed to have been occupied. It was estimated that at least 30,000 spectators were present. After all Everton only made a couple of alterations from the side which drew at Middlesbrough, Hill appearing for young Balmer, while Harold Hardman, as arranged, came in for Grundy. On the Manchester side Hynds was an absentee, Frost reappearing at right half-back. The tame were:—
Everton: Scott, goal; Hill and W. Balmer, backs ; Taylor, Booth (captain), and Black, half-backs; Sharp, Makepeace, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Manchester City: Edmondson, goal; Norgrove and Burgess (captain), backs; Frost, Buchan, and Banks, half-backs; Dorsett, Bannister, Thomley, Turnbull, and Booth forwards.
Referee, W. Hargreaves.
Booth lost the toss, and Young kicked off punctually to time against a fairly stiff breeze, but with the sun, which occasionally broke through the clouds at their backs. The home side made play on the right, but Booth cleared through in a trice, and the City right was again in evidence. This time Dorsett, in trying for goal, placed the ball just behind. Then the Blues had a look in, danger, as in the case of the City, coming from Sharp and his colleagues on the right. However, Edmondson was
EQUAL TO THE DEMANDS
upon him, but still Everton pressed, and Norgrove intercepted a shot from Young. On the hard ground the sides kept up a fast pace, and a dangerous attack was made on the Everton goal. Balmer, however, effectively kicked away a shot from Turnbull. Play was fall of interest, though the City at this period were having the best of it. Burgess rendered his side good service when Everton looked like becoming dangerous,and after Scott had dealt with a shot from Turnbull Dorsett distinguished himself, finishing a brilliant run with a lightning shot which skimmed the bar. Everton after this carried the ball down in nice style, but the City defence prevailed, and
A VIGOROUS ATTACK
followed on Scott's charge, which had an exceedingly narrow escape. There was no mistaking the earnestness of the City onslaught, and on one occasion Booth knocked the ball down with his hand when within the penalty area. The referee did not notice the incident, and appeals for a penalty were ignored. Still the City kept up persistent pressure, and luck, in addition to strenuous defence, saved the situation for Everton. The visiting side could make little impression, and when they did get away Settle was pulled up for a foul. Corners were taken by the City on both wings, and one terrific low shot from Booth which went on the wrong side of the post deserved to score. Everton were being outplayed, and it was fortunate for them that the City sharpshooters were not in very good form. The City defence was altogether too good for the Everton front line who were sadly lacking in combination. Thornley was penalised for Charging Scott as he was fisting out, but the free kick was of no advantage, and during further pressure Bannister the misfortune to bang the ball against the upright when Scott was beaten all to pieces. Hardman vainly endeavoured to get away on his own, but being hampered by Hargrave his centre was of no use, and again the City in fine style were making matters warm for the Everton defence. Indeed it was a question of City first and Everton a very long way behind. The home attack could do everything right except in respect of shooting, Dorsett when nicely placed being badly at fault. Hardman gave a nice pass to Settle, who, however, was too well watched to turn it to advantage, and after a succession of throws in the City once more swarmed
ROUND THE EVERTON GOAL.
All this time it must be remembered that Everton had to contend with a stiff breeze. A fine breakaway by Makepeace was spoiled by Burgess kicking out, and after good play by the Everton left wing Booth shot just wide of the post. The City were soon back again, but they had not quite so much of the game as before. Hardman tried hard to make progress, but Norgrove gave no quarter, and Balmer, in kicking away, skied the ball over the line. The corner was cleared with difficulty, and running down on the right, Young put across a glorious centre, which was missed by both Settle and Hardman. Burgess, from a free kick, placed the ball in the Everton goalmouth, where Booth missed a splendid opportunity of opening the score. Then Everton were seen to better advantage than at any previous stage of the game. There was some life in their attack, but after Young had passed back instead of shooting, Makepeace had a go, the ball bouncing off a Cityplayer on to the goalkeeper, who easily cleared. This lively pressure was not maintained, and the City indulged in another of the strong attacks, which failed when the finishing touches were necessary; indeed, it was marvellous, considering the way in which they assailed the Everton goal, how' they were prevented from scoring. It was a tribute, to the Everton defenders, amongst whom not the least conspicuous was Black. Just before the interval Everton had a free kick, which Balmer placed, well in the goalmouth, when the whistle blew. Half-time—Everton nil, Manchester City nil.
Everton had more of the play in the second half. Thornley scored for the City, who were distinctly the better side. Final—Manchester City 1, Everton nil.

EVERTON COM v  MANCHESTER CITY RES
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 01 January 1906
This Lancashire -Combination match at Goodison-park to-day attracted about 2,000 people. The weather was bitterly cold and the ground very hard. The teams were as follows :
Everton.—Collins, goal; Wildman and Wright, backs; Chadwick, McLaughlin, and Donaldson, half-backs; Birnie, Rankin, Quinn, Cooke, and Grundy, forwards. Manchester City.—Youde, goal; Church and Meunier, backs; Cooke, Moffatt, and Evans, half-backs; Whittaker, Adames, Baldwin, Farrell, and Vaughan, forwards.
Everton started against a cross wind, but had the better of the opening stages. Cooke made a good attempt to get through, but Youde ran out and kicked away before Grundy could get to the ball. A fine clearance by Meunier set his forwards going only for Wildman to pull them up and midfield play was the order for some time. Good work by the Everton left wing to play to the City half, but the Blues failed to make much read-way. Wright did service during a rush, and following good combination by the home forwards, Youde had to save from Grundy and Quinn. Everton were having a decided advantage, but both Grundy and Donaldson sent wide. The City forwards quite failed to pass the Everton backs, and Birnie sent in a grand shot from the touch line, Youde saving well. A little later Quinn threw away capital opening by a reckless shot, the ball travelling yards wide of the goal. Collins did not handle the ball for fully 15 minutes,when Wright miskicked and the goalkeeper prevented a corner being obtained. Everton quickly returned to the attack and Youde had to save from Rankin. The City followed with their best attack so far, and from Adams'sshot Wildman almost scored against his side. He turned the ball wide of Collins into the goal, but just as the leather was entering the net he cleverly hooked it out, and all the City got was a fruitless corner. Everton attacked in turn only to finish badly, and the City forced two corners in quick succession. The defence prevailed, however, and on Everton taking up the running Youde cleared from Rankin and Birnie. Everton had the best of matters to the interval, but failed to beat Youde. Half-time :—Everton nil, Manchester City nil.
Final—Everton Reserves 0, Manchester City Reserves 0.

MANCHESTER CITY 1 EVERTON 0
January 2, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
For their NewYear's match with Manchester City, at Hyde-road, Everton unfortunately, were unable to place anything like a representative team in the field. Injuries had been so numerous that an hour before the game ought to have commenced the team had not been selected. R.Balmer, Crelly, and Abbott were declared unable to turn out, and there was a doubt as to the fitness of certain of the Reserves players. Under these circumstances any chance of success which the Evertonians might under normal conditions, have possessed was considerable discoupled. Troubles rarely come singly, and it must be confessed that the Everton Club have undergone during the holidays and are under going a somewhat better experience. The players spent the weekend at Harrogate and arrived in Manchester yesterday in good time for the match, which was timed, to commenced at 2-30. There was a big holiday crowd to witness the match, and twenty minutes before the kick off all the available spaces seemed to have been occupied. It was estimated that at least 30,000 spectators were present. After all Everton only made a couple of alterations from the side which drew at Middlesbrough. Hill appearing for young Balmer, while Harold Hardman, as ranged, came in for Grundy. On the Manchester side Hynds was an absentee, Frost reappearing at right half-back. Teams: - Everton: - Scott goals, Hill, and W.Balmer, backs, Taylor, Booth (Captain), and Black half-backs Sharp, Makepeace, Young Settle and Hardman forwards. Manchester City: - Edmondson, goals, Norgrove, and Burgess, backs Frost, Buchan and Banks, half-backs, Dorsett, Bannister, Thomley, Turnbull, and Booth, forwards. Booth lost the toss, and Young kicked off punctually to time against a fairly stiff breeze, but with the sun, which occasionally broke through the clouds at their backs. The home side made play on the right, but Booth cleared through in a trice, and the City right was again in evidence.' This time Dorsett in trying for goal, placed the ball just behind. Then the Blues had a look in danger, as in the case of the City, coming from Sharp and his colleagues on the right. However, Edmondson was equal to the demands upon him, but still Everton pressed, and Norgrove intercepted a shot from Young. On the hard ground the sides kept up a fast pace and a dangerous attack was made on the Everton goal. Balmer, however, effectively kicked away a shot from Turnbull. Play was full of interest, though the City at the period were having the best of it. Burgess rendered his side good service when Everton looked like becoming dangerous, and after Scott had dealt with a shot from Turnbull. Dorsett distinguished himself, finishing a brilliant run with a lighting shot, which skimmed the ball Everton after this carried the ball down in nice style, but the City defence prevailed and a vigorous attack followed on Scott's charge, which had an exceedingly narrow escape. There was no mistaking the earnestness of the City onslaught, and on one occasion Booth knocked the ball down with his hands when within the penalty area. The referee did not notice the incident, and appeals for a penalty were ignored. Still the City kept up persistent pressure, and luck, in addition top strenuous defence, saved the situation for Everton. The visiting side could make little impression, and when they did get away Settle was pulled up for a foul. The City took corners on both wings, and one terrific low shot from Booth, which went on the wrong side of the post, deserved to score. Everton were being outplayed, and it was fortunate for them that the City sharpshooters were not the very good form. The City defence was altogether too good for the Everton front line, who were sadly lacking in combination. Thornley was penalised for charging Scott as he was fisting out, but the free kick was of no advantage, and during further pressure. Bannister had the misfortune to bang the ball against upright when Scott was beaten all to pieces. Hardman vainly endeavored to get away on his own, but being hampered by Hargrave his centre was of no use, and again the City in fine style were making matters warm for the Everton defence. Indeed it was a question of City first and Everton a very long way behind. The home attack could do everything right except in respect of shooting. Dorsett when nicely placed being badly at fault, Hardman gave a nice pass to Settle, who, however, was too well watched to turn it to advantage, and after a succession of throws in the City once more swarmed round the Everton goal. All this time it must be remembered that Everton had to contend with a stiff breeze. A fine breakaway by Makepeace was spoiled by Burgess kicking out, and after good play by the Everton left wing. Booth shot just wide of the post. The City were soon back again, but they had not quite so much of the game as before Hardman tried hard to make progress, but Norgrove gave no quarter, and Balmer, in kicking away, skied the ball over the line. The corner was cleared, with difficulty, and running down on the right, Young put across a glorious centre which was missed by both Settle and Hardman. Burgess, from a free kick, placed the ball in the Everton goalmouth, where Booth missed a splendid opportunity of opening the score. Then Everton were seen to better advantage than at any previous stage of the game. There was some life in their attack, but after Young had passed back unstead of shooting, Makepeace had a go, the ball bouncing off a City player on to the goalkeeper, who easily cleared. This lively pressure was not maintained, and the City indulged in another of the strong attacks, which failed when the finishing touches were necessary; indeed it was marvellous, considering the way in which they assailed the Everton goal, how they were prevented from scoring, it was a tribute to the Everton defenders, amongst whom not the least conspicuous was Black. Just before the interval Everton had a free kick, which Balmer placed well in the goalmouth, when the whistle blew. Half-time-Manchester City nil, Everton nil. In the second half, Everton made a much better show than before though their opponents were still the stronger side. Early on Sharp was prominent, and Hardman put in a grand shot, which Edmondson negotiated, in the cleverest possible fashion. Indeed, for some time it was marvelous how the City goal escaped downfall. The Situation soon changed, and only Scott's alertness prevented City scoring. Play varied in interesting fashion, and the pace was terrific, with the home side having always the pull. Sharp was temporarily injured, but quickly resumed, and as the result of a fierce onslaught Thorpe scored for City from a pass by Booth with a shot which gave Scott no changes. Everton tried hard, principally through the efforts of Sharp to equalised, but Edmondson kept a grand goal, and so the game went on to the end with any further additions to the score. Unquestionably City deserved their win. Everton improved considerably upon, the form displayed at Middlesbrough, but they were no match for the City. Indeed, had it not been for a magnificent exhibition by Tom Booth at centre half-back the defeat would have been much more decisive. Final; Manchester City 1, Everton nil.

EVERTON RESERVES 0 MANCHESTER CITY RESERVES 0
January 2 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 21)
This match at Goodison-park attracted about 2,000 people. The weather was bitterly cold, and the ground very hard. The teams were as follows : - Everton: - Collins, goal, Wildman, and Wright, backs, Chadwick, McLaughlin, and Donaldson, half-backs, Birnie, Rankin, Quinn Cooke and Grundy, forwards. Manchester City: - Youde, goal, Church, and Meunier, backs, Cooke, Moffatt, and Evans half-backs Whittaker, Adams, Baldwin Farrell, and Vaughan, forwards. Everton had the better of the opening stages. Cooke made a good attempt to get throng; but Youde ran out and kicked away before Grundy could get to the ball. A fine clearance by Meunier set his forwards going only for Wildman to pull them up and midfield play was the order for some time. Good work by the Everton left wing to play to the City half, but the Blues failed to make much headway. Wright did capital services during a rush, and following good combination by the home forwards. Yould had to save from Grundy and Quinn, Everton were having a decided advantage, but both Grundy, and Donaldson sent wide. The City forwards quite failed to pass the Everton backs, and Birnie sent in a grand shot from the touchline, Youde saving well. A little later Quinn threw away a capital opening by a reckless shot, the ball travelling yards well of the goal. The City followed with their best attack so far, and from Adams shot Wildman almost scored against his side. He turned the ball wide of Collins into the goal, but just as the leather was entering the net he cleverly hooked it out and all the City got was a fruitless corner. Everton attacked in turn only to finish badly, and then City forced two corners in quick succession. The defence prevailed, however, and on Everton tasking up the running Youde cleared from Rankin and Birnie. Everton had the best of matters to the interval, but failed to beat Youde. Half-time Everton nil, Manchester City nil. The City had a decided advantage when play was resumed, but the Everton defence was sound. Everton pressed in turn, Youde clearing a shot from Cooke. A moment later the visitors were attacking strongly, and Collins saved finely from Whittaker. The City were showing the better form at this stage and Adams had two fine openings only to fail badly on each occasion. Clever play by Rankin gave Birnie a chance, his shot travelling just wide of the post; while a moment later the inside man headed very close. Birnie put in a grand run and centre, but with Youde out of goal Cooke could only hit the post and the danger was cleared. The Everton forwards indulged in too much individualism with the result that the City defenders invariably robbed then at the finish. McLaughlin changed place with Quinn, and this brought about some improvement. After Collins and Wildman had repelled several strong attacks on the Everton goal McLaughlin was fouled close to the City goal. Rankin took the penalty kick, but shot straight at Youde, who had no difficulty in clearing. Both sides missed further chances afterwards, and the game ended in pointless draw. Final: - Everton nil, Manchester City Nil.

MANCHESTER CITY v  EVERTON
The Sportsman - Tuesday 02 January 1906
Both teams in this match at Hyde-road, Manchester were far removed from full strength, but close upon 30,000 spectators witnessed the game. Winning the toss, the home side, with the wind in their favour, had much the best of the game, Everton being penned in their own half the whole of the opening forty-five minutes. The visitors’ goal had some miraculous escapes, but their defence was certainty very safe, and at the interval nothing had been scored. On resuming, the visitors attacked strongly at the outset, and Edmondson was called upon to save several good shots. Manchester were, however, very persistent, and after twenty minutes’ play Thornley scored a fine goal after a clever movement by Banks. Everton made good efforts to drew level, but met with a sound defence, and a somewhat disappointing game ended in a win for the City by one goal to love.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 02 January 1906
Everton had again to face defeat yesterday, Manchester City being the team to bring about their downfall for the fourth time during the "holidays. The Blues have, indeed,fallen on evil times. Out of five games they have only extracted a single point, and that the result of a goalless draw with Middleborough. This is not a record which we are accustomed to associate with the Everton Club, and it is to be hoped that the players will, for future games, "pull themselves together" and lift the club to a position in the first flight which it ought to occupy.
The match at Manchester was fought in the best of spirit, and it was a hard and fast game, withthe City players showing rather better work than the Blues. The pluck and determination of the home team eventually had its reward, and Everton were defeated by the single' goal which was strenuously worked for. Everton played a rattling game, and their form was an improvement on what we have seen of late, but the City were just a little better, and the score about represented their superiority.
Tom Booth played a grand game, and time after time he got his side out of tight corners, and Hill, who was playing at back instead of R. Balmer, came out of the contest with great credit. The forwards, were in good form, but they run up against a relentless defence, and their skill was of no avail. Settle was about the best of the lint. Everton have had some changing of players through injuries since the holidays commenced, and this fact has seriously affected whatever chance they had of gaining points. Let us hope that this year will bring them better luck.

BAD REPRORT ABOUT R. BALMER THE BLUES’ BACK
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 03 January 1906
Bee
It is with great regret that I hear of the report concerning Robert Balmer. Everton have not made “a song” about their injured members- and this is to their credit, and now more than a dozen of their players have been under doctor’s orders. What is the latest is the worst in their case, for the young back has been their most reliable defender though out twenty one games the club has played. His injury was caused at Middlesbrough through a rival treading on his ankle and it is pretty certain that R. Balmer will not be able to turn out for the remainder of this month. It is at back that the club have had such a pull, having had to find substitutes in turn for R. Balmer, Crelley, and Hannan. The last named received a kick on the ankle from a Southport Centralite and it happened to be the ankle that has caused him trouble before.
Having no better men the Everton team chosen in the most important home match of Saturday is the following.- Scott; W. Balmer, and Crelley; Taylor, Booth, and Abbott; Sharp, Makepeace, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
Save that Makepeace is at forward and Scott in goal, the team reads very like the formerly well tried one. Preston have made themselves a name this season and everyone respects them. They are to be reckoned with whether at home or away, and when the men line up at 2.30-with the lighter days come later kicks off-I shall anticipate a glorious game. Everton should be fit- they were indulging in brine baths at Stafford yesterday. The second teams will gather at Preston, and at present A.N. Other or Grundy are set as the Blue centre forward. I know the cloaked A.N. Other, and trust the club will manage to get his signature.
To Mr. and Mrs Harry Makepeace, who were made one yesterday at St. Saviour’s Church, our heartiest congratulations. Here’s long life and prosperity to you.
Perturbed over the Everton defeats and “remembering your open criticism in the past, and how you are always ready to give some advice on our teams,” an Everton supporter, by nom de plume “True Blue,” writes to say that by this time the Everton directors should see that Makepeace is a half back and not a forward, and also that Young has proved himself a failure on the last half-dozen occasions, having failed with the easiest of chances. “I think,” he goes on, “they have got he right man in Black for the left half position, and he ought to be kept there. What is lacking is an inside right and centre forward with plenty of dash. Notice what a difference Hampton made to the Villa team. Are the Goodison directors afraid to spend their money? If they have no new centre for Saturday, I should propose putting Rankin there. Surely he is worth a trial in that position, if only as a last resource. Remember Hewitt!”

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 04 January 1906
An old Everton spectator now resident in Cottonopolis sends a few impressions of the Everton and City match at Hyde-road on New Year's-day. He says;-  Shades of the past! days of Chadwick and Milward, Alec Latta and Brady, John Southworth, &c., were the feeble, inefficient fellows calling themselves forwards. Did they really belong to that noted organisation, Everton? First of all, we of the crowd patted ourselves on the back and said, "Jacky Sharp is playing to-day, we'll see something in forward play ;" but a nippy youngster of determined mein, called Banks, saw to it that “Jacky " was practically bottled up. Few and far between were the flashing centres from the right wing. Makepeace put in many deft touches, but is not determined enough as a forward, whose motto ought always to be shoot, shoot hard and often, Sandy Young, whose play when in form reminds one of an artist, did little to add to -his reputation, bar one glorious chance when he ought to have shot instead of passing to Settle and Hardman, who, between them, completely boggled it. Jimmy Settle, against whom there appeared to be rather a dead set by the City halves, seemed to he always in the wars, although not actually laid out for repairs. Harold Hardman, as plucky as ever, appeared rather outclassed throughout.
Turning to the halves, continues our correspondent, Tom Booth stood out head and shoulders the finest player on the field; he was here, there, and everywhere, and in voicing the opinion of the crowd, Tom was worth half-a-dozen of his confreres. Taylor, another good old 'un, played hard and well, and was an able seconder to Booth in keeping down the score. Black got in some clever touches, but wandered too much, allowing Dorsett practically a free hand. Willie Balmer and. Hill, the latter a new comer who made a distinct impression, were kept hard at it the whole time, and credit is due to them for their fine defence. Scott seems rather rash in his methods, but no power could have stopped Thornley’s shot. Considering, the quality of the respective elevens, it was a most disappointing game, very few glimpses of classy football being on view. Turnbull, the sharp-shootist was by far the best of the City forwards, although Dorsett ran him close when he got a real chance. Banks is one of those vigorous Scotties, dour and determined, who are never beaten, and in him the City have the man they have been looking for a long time.
Jack Sharp will not forgetßanks for some time (remarks an old Evertonian). Burgess, who was acting captain,played his usual clever game; in fact, the full backs on each side were 'the redeeming feature of the game. Edmondson had very little to do,' both keepers having practically an easy afternoon considering the strength of the forwards arrayed against them. Everton have indeed fallen upon evil times, but a couple of forwards with a bit of dash about them would soon make a difference.

EVERTON PEOPLE ANXIOUS ABOUT THE RESULT WITH NORTH END
Liverpool Echo - Friday 05 January 1906
Bee
Preston have shown a penchant for drawn games. Nine times have they left the field with honours even, and they have only four times had to admit defeat, the other engagements, to the number of eight, having been victories. This is good form. Everton forwards must draw conclusion from the visitors’ “goals against” column- it contains the number 35, a number equalled by Derby County, and bettered by no club-and they must realise that their former efforts in the shooting department will not suffice. The whole five must make towards the haven, and immediately the opportunity to about arise they must seize it. Another poignant fact that Abbott and Crelley will do well to notice is that Bond as a sprinter is awkward to catch; also that he has scored an extraordinary number of goals, considering his position. Therefore their duty is to check the outside right, and to see to it that he has no latitude. Guarded carefully, Bond will not do a deal. Give him a yard and he’ll take a goal- probably.
The match promises to be the best seen this year at Goodison?
A Mr. Smith is in charge of the game, and at 2.30 there will be a large crowd, for the supporters of the Blue jerseys are ever loyal, and, in addition Preston are a proud lot whom all like to welcome. Their deeds in the past have been glorious and having once emerged from the lower division they built up another excellent team, which lays claim to having drawn at Anfield, Small Heath, and Trent Bridge, and having beaten Villa 2-0 and Manchester City 2-0.
At Deepdale in the second contest of this course, Everton made a creditable draw. Taylor scored for the visiting team, which included McDermott and McLaughlin. The ground was under water. It is eight or nine years since North End last culminated a win out of Everton. This is encouragement for the home team.
Preston people were startled on Thursday by the news that Mr. Thomas Whitwell had dropped down dead. He attended a meeting of the North End directors which body he was a number, the night before.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 05 January 1906
Everton appear at Goodison-Park tomorrow against Preston North En, and it is to be hoped that the Blues will show better form than in the last few games. This match ought to awaken old memories, when North End and Everton gave some of the most brilliant exhibitions ever seen on the Association football field. Football of that high order would be welcomed at Goodison-Park to-morrow.

CHANGES IN TEAM
Liverpool Echo - Friday 05 January 1906
EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB PLAYERS TROUBLED BY ILLNESS
There is no end to the misfortune which is coming on the Everton Football Club. The club’s position is a poor one, and in the struggle to improve it the directors are all too often hampered by accidents to and illness of players. At Hyde-road on Monday, Everton had to wire for Hill, the reserve back to play in place of Crelley. Two days ago the latter had completely recovered from a severe cold, but yesterday he was taken ill again, and Hill will be called upon for to-morrow’s match with Preston North End. Then Young is a doubtful starter. If he, too, cannot turn out the forward line may be shuffled to read;- Settle, centre, McLoughlin inside left.

EVERTON GAIN POINTS
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 06 January 1906
THE FIRST THIS YEAR
A HARD GAME AT GOODISON
PRESTON PLAY PLUCKILY
A visit from Proud Preston never fails to remind us of all that is great and glorious in the history of football. in the past they have frequently lowered the Evertonian banner, even when it was fluttering far more bravely that of late. The North Enders occupy a vary respectable position in League records, having gained 25 points for twenty-one games played, while Everton, who acted as hosts today, are 5 points behind. The Blues have done very little to enthuse their supporters of late, and a victory was not very confidently anticipated, especially as the Preston defence is well known to be particularly sturdy. Bond was expected to do big things on the Preston right.
The heavy rain ceased some hours before starting, but it made no improvement in the ground. At the time of starting there were not more than 10,000 spectators present, and a somewhat turbulent wind prevailed. Crelley was absent on the home side, and Bell and Wilson were replaced on the Preston side by Turnbull and Maher. At the last moment Dilly replaced Young at centre forward. The teams were, therefore, as follows;-
Everton.- Scott.- goal; Hill and W. Balmer, back; Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Makepeace, Dilly, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Preston North End.- McBride, goal; Derbyshire and Rodway, backs; McLean, Dodd, and Lyon, half-backs; Bond, Maher, Smith, Turnbull, and Lockett, forwards.
Booth won the toss, and set the North Enders to face the elements. The visitors during the first couple of minutes were inclined to be aggressive, but Balmer cleared twice and Booth once, the result being that Hardman and company made inroads on the left, Dilly coming in at the finish and running the ball over the line. A minute later Dilly beat the intermediary line, and then ran past the backs, but McBride came out, and so hampered the Everton centre that the ball rolled over the goal-line. Sharp was fouled, and the free kick was taken by Taylor. Settle headed into goal, but Derbyshire made a timely clearance. Then Followed a scrimmage adjacent to McBride’s charge, and he had to save from Dilly, but the pressure was sustained by the Blues with grim determination, and a corner was forced. From this Preston’s left gained ground, although a couple of smart headers from Hill retarded their progress. Ultimately Lockie worked round Christie and gave Scott a stiff one to negotiate, and the home custodian shortly afterwards running out of his goal slipped up badly on the treacherous surface, but though Turnbull and Smith were all over him he cleared while on the ground. The Prestonians returned to the attack, and forced a corner, but it did not bring much anxiety to the home lines. When the North Enders were busy pressing in front of the Everton goal a free kick was given against them. Hill landed the ball well into the Preston half. Here sprightly play was shown by Makepeace and Sharp, a couple of centres coming from the latter. Booth then dropped the ball in front, but when Dilly dashed up he was whistled off-side. Makepeace forced a corner, from which Abbott made a brave attempt to score. Rodway being injured during the bully in front of goal. A further forward move by the home players ended in Hardman placing the ball in the centre, and then Taylor sent in a lovely dropping shot which deserved to score, but did not. Shortly afterwards Bond got away, and was getting very dangerous when Hill ran across and tackled him, a slip completing the Preston man’s discomfiture. A kick out by Derbyshire brought some relief to the Everton lines, but soon after Preston’s right put in a very clever move, and Scott only just succeeded in negotiating a grand shot from Bond. Woodman now gained possession, and evading the attentions of McLean, put across to Dilly, Derbyshire missing badly and leaving a really fine opening for the home centre, but Dilly only floundered about on the sticky surface. The leather came out to Makepeace, who made amends with a magnificent drive. McBride was not expecting Master Leather at the moment and would have been well beaten had not the wind just curled the ball outside the post. The Everton skipper worked very hard for an opening and succeeded in getting in a couple of long shots, but neither caused trouble to the goalkeeper. Then Hardman ran from half-way and gave a lovely centre, which the visitors just managed to nullify when Settle was making a dash for the ball. Taylor followed with some grand work, but was disappointed at the finish. Bond got clear away from the centre, but was again spoiled by Hill after which Lyon fouled Sharp this leading to a bully in the Preston goalmouth. Again Bond got clear away, but he was beaten by Balmer on the run, a foul being given against the last named, this being the signal for a regular red-hot attack on the Everton goal, which was lucky to escape scot free. Hill, failing to take a pass back from Taylor, was beaten by Lockett, but luckily the Prestonian ran the ball over the goal line. After this the Blues worked down in full force, and after Sharp had failed, Taylor tried with a terrific kick to find McBride’s whereabouts, and the ball rebounding off Tud brought a corner to the Blues. After this Lockett was making a flying visit to Scott, when Hill cleverly stopped his gallop. But the Proud ones persisted, and after Scott had saved twice under difficulties he had to concede a couple of corners. Pretty work followed between Bond and Maher, and the attack was well pressed home until Balmer relieved. Just before the interval, Derbyshire accounted for a lovely centre from Sharp.
Half-time score Everton Nil, Preston North End Nil.
The restart after the interval was of a sensational character, Hardman went spinning off and was only half-heartedly checked by McLean. The Everton man recovered himself quickly and getting at the ball just as Derbyshire chimed in, he put in a really fine shot which was only inches wide of the mark. This was a capital bit of work, and was very soon supplemented by a hot straight shot from Dilly. This apparent determination of the Blues to open their account was very acceptable to the anxious spectators. The home forwards continued to operate as nimbly as the sticky ground would permit, but Makepeace and Dilly lost a good chance owing to momentary misunderstanding. Preston paid their host a brief visit, during which Abbott excellent himself. After McBride had saved from Sharp there was pretty finessing between Abbott, Makepeace, and Settle, but they could not force an opening. After a further advance by the Everton men the Preston left made headway, and a long cross from Hackett gave them possession, but the international was splendidly beaten by Abbott. A little later on the Everton captain beat Bond for pace, but just afterwards he was left in a grand position from which he shot outside. Everton made matters very warm for Preston in their goalmouth, but they failed to get through. Abbott meanwhile claimed a penalty for a foul on the line, but in vain. Settle was sandwiched when in a good position, and the visitors broke away, Bond making a good dash, but he was spoiled by Scott. Turnbull gave a short pass to Smith, who was facing Scott, the latter clearing with great difficulty. Towards the close the crowd had increased to 20,000. From a lovely centre by Hardman, Settle and Dilly tried to beat McBride, who fell in the goalmouth, with quite half dozen players on top of him. A fierce struggle ensued for a few minutes several men being damaged, and ultimately Mr. Smith stopped the game for a few minutes, it seemed very hard lines on the Blues, but compensation came immediately afterwards, as the home front went off in line, and a fine drive from Hardman at close quarters beat McBride ten minutes from time. Final Result Everton 1 goal Preston North End nil
Last season Everton 1, Preston North End nil
BEE’S SNAPSHOTS
It has been weary weeks in coming, but it has come. Everton have won by 1 to nothing. The meetings this season of the two sides will be remembered as muddy meetings. At Preston the ground was under water. To-day the conditions were vile. Dilly at centre-this was something for the team-makers to keep a strict eye on.
At centre forward the Blues have been terribly lacking in dash and hustle. Dilly would seem to have noticed this defeat early on. He twice gave the Proud ‘Uns forcible knowledge that he was going every inch of the way. First McBride vigorously charged him over, and second, the ball was carried over the line. There was a very funny piece of mud-wading when Lockett caused the goalkeeper to handle. He groped about, fell, released the ball, charged one of his own backs over, and then threw the ball into touch. It was a diversion. Two famed outside rights -Bond and Sharp-on view. Both assiduously marked. Up to twenty minutes there was not much between the teams and much in the game. What! Here’s a burst by Dilly and Hardman and a shot from Makepeace and Taylor-all near opening the account for the home side. One of the worst pieces of work seen was the tripping of Bond when Balmer was beaten by the Preston crack. Lyon, too, was “hot,” Ge was rebuked by the whistle-blower.
Interval Nil-Nil.
Preston played with characteristic dash and Everton copied their example in the second half. Taylor took the inside position, and Makepeace played half-back. How well this movement worked cannot be too highly explained, because the veteran infused the required dash against a sturdy line. Scott had a field day. Not often was he tried, but when he was we always found him on his best behaviour. He saved Everton from having a drawn game, as it was within the last few minutes when he flung himself at a shot from the left and deservedly gained renewed plaudits from the crowd. Perhaps the Blues will go on to further successes. They have no better forward line than that they played to-day. Dilly, to say the least, livened his partners up. Settle was hardly in prime form. Hardman work wonderfully hard, and had the satisfaction of shooting the orphan goal. The half-back line was good, and Abbott fulfilled his mission very well. The winners had a good pair of backs, and Hill with experience, is going to make a name for himself. Dodd and McLaren are a capable pair in the intermediate line. Bond was again the star of an indifferent forward line, but he was badly served Maher, who made a poor substitute for Wilson. Turnbull was better than Lockett, and Smith was better than the outside left. Everton are to be congratulated on drawing three points out of a team that has been doing very well throughout the season.

EVERTON 1 PRESTON NORTH END 0
January 8, 1906. The Liverpool Mercury
EVERTON WIN AT LAST.
At length the “rot” to borrow a phrase familiar in another national pastime, has been checked by the Goodison-park brigade. This was furnished by Everton's narrow defeat of Preston North End by one goal to nil, and to say the least, the victory is exceedingly welcome to the club, and supporters alike. The result of recent performances by the Blues had been such as almost to give Everton supporters a fit of the “Blues” one beaten to wonder when they were going to win a game. Their success on Saturday, however, will go far to rehabilitate the club into the confidence, and good graces of their large followers and it is hoped the somewhat long series of defeat has now given place to a spell of victories. Neither team was at its strongest, and there was one of two unusual changes. Crelly had not sufficiently recovered from his injury and Hill partnered the elder Balmer at full back taking the right position Dilly filled Young place at centre forward, whilst Abbott was back again at half-back instead of Black. Preston had to do without Jack bell and Wilson, both on the injured list whilst Todd was requisitioned to fill the place of Hunter, who has not before been off the list this season.

DEFENCE SUPWERIOR TO ATTACK.
The game was characterised for its great strenuous and untiring determination and in winning by the odd goal Everton had their work cut out. At the same time they deserved the two points-there was no fluking about the manner in which they were obtained. It was a game in which on both sides, the defence was superior to the attack, although the front lines entered with remarkable earnestness into the fray, and each shone alternately. There was however, a lack of ability to shoot goals. There were many fine efforts that is true, but either they were within inches or the goalkeepers rendered them absortive. This was discouraging after some centres, which were altogether praiseworthy and seemed almost certain to bring about success. In considering the score regard must of course he had to the heavy going of the ground, the players not infrequently having some difficulty in sticking in their feet, and it is not a little surprising that the players kept steam up so well.

POINTS IN THE GAME.
The first attempt to mark the slate was by Taylor, who it will be remembered scored Everton's equalising goal at Preston at the beginning of the season. It was the result of clever combination and Taylor receiving from Booth sent in a grand shot, which just topped the crossbar. The North End forwards often came away with dash, the flyer, Bond, being at times irresistible and ubiquitous. Matters proceeded in ding done fashion, the Evertonians playing up with a spirit and vigour equal to that of their opponents. Occasionally there was some uncalled for energy on the part of one or two of the Prestonians notably Lyon, one of the halves who seemed to have a special liking for fouling Sharp so much so that the referee had to speak to him on the subject. It however, burst out later on in this half. The contest was waged first in one half and then the other with extra ordinary intensity up to the interval, when nothing had been scored. Hardman immediately on the game being resumed, looked like a certain scorer, the ball just grazing the post. There was no diminution in the degree of “go” which had characterised the first half, both sides contending for the mastery with an actively which could never be mistaken. There was some very hot onslaught on either goal, and the abilities of both custodians were well tried. It was about ten minutes off time when Everton success came. It was not without the sensation. The event was just proceeded by Settle striking the underpart of the crossbar. Dilly got possession as the ball came out, where upon McBride fell on it, and a bully ensued in which it looked as if there, was quite a cluster on the floor.' The custodian was slightly hurt, and just after he presumed that Hardman taking advantage of a centre from the sight put the ball past McBride and did the trick.

OTHER FEATURES.
There were several individual displays, which caught the eye. The combination of the home forwards was generally good but if anything that of the Ribblesiders was better, whilst they also had it in point of dash. Hardman and Settle were oftentimes troublesome, and Dilly performed very creditably in the centre never in the least shirking work. Sharp was too well looked after to shine with his usual brilliance. The halves showed resource, and behind, Hill was a complete success, doing the right thing at the proper moment. He not only showed himself a fearless tackler; but the eagerness with which he rushed into the fray and cleared was the theme of admiration. Scott had a stiff task on hand, but he got through it finely. As already indicated, Preston played a rollicking game. Bond made good rushes of speed, but strange to say he was occasionally neglected in the matter of passes. What is the reason? Maher and Turnbull were nearly prominent. The defence was always resolute and McBride got through a lot of work with distinction. Teams : - Everyone: - Scott goal, Hill, and W.Balmer, backs Taylor Booth (Captain), and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, Makepeace, Dilly, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Preston North End: - McBride, goal, Derbyshire, and Rodway, backs, McLean, Dodd, and Lyons, half-backs, Bond, Maher, Smith, Turnbull, and Lockett, forwards.

NORTH END AGAIN BEATEN
Athletic News - Monday 08 January 1906
Week after week brings defeat for Preston North End Reserve, and now at length they figure at the foot of the table.  Had Saturday’s game not been preceded by so many poor performances, there would not have been much cause to complain, for against Everton Reserve they had a very moderate side, the forwards especially being mixed.  The only goal of the game was the outcome of a shot by Chadwick, which glanced off a Preston player, and deceived Taylor, this point coming early in the first half.  Collins, who was carried off injured at one point, but was able to resume, kept goal splendidly for the visitors. 

EVERTOM SCRAMBLE HOME
Athletic News - Monday 08 January 1906
By Junius
Owing to the weather the attendance at Goodison Park was very sparse in the return fixture with Preston North End, not more than 10,000 persons being present. The general opinion was that Everton would do well to share the points, and these anticipations were engendered by the feeble form shown recently by the "Blues," coupled with the knowledge that Everton possess a weak attack, while Preston enjoy the benefits of a sturdy defence. Although the North Enders were beaten, I scarcely think they deserved to lose both points, though the football exhibited by the respective sides seldom roused any enthusiasm. Consequent upon the indisposition of Crelley and Young, Everton had to craft into their service the reserves Hill and Dilly, and the pair justified their selection. On the Preston side, Turnbull and Maher were substituted for Bell and Wilson respectively in the forward line, while Tod filled Hunter’s place at centre half. The North End, who wore black bands on their arms in memory of the sudden death of one of their directors, were prominent at the start, but as the game progressed the quality of the play deteriorated, and the defence was generally more than a match for the opposition. There was no scoring in the first half, and a fine shot from Lockett was the most creditable attempt find the net after the resumption, Everton teemed inclined to be aggressive, but they dwindled away, and eventually Makepeace and Taylor changed places, but this produced no direct improvement in the Everton forward play. Smith appeared certain to score after beating Hill, but Scott cleverly came to the rescue, and then occurred the only exciting incident. Hardman ran down and centred to Settle, whose shot struck the cross-bar, and M'Bride, in saving the return drive from Dilly, fell with a crowd of players on him. After a rather lengthy stoppage for repairs, the custodian resumed, and from a cross from the extreme right Hardman flashed the ball into the net. This point decided the game ten minutes from the finish, but Preston should have equalized, for Bond and Turnbull obtained nice openings. However, Everton won, and I consider they were fortunate. They were not one whit superior to their opponents, whose defence was excellent, and a drawn game would have been a fitter representation of the battle. The finer points of football were lacking, and the game was stubbornly contested rather than brilliantly fought. Even Bond failed to show his paces, and the match, as a whole, was exceedingly disappointing. No doubt the state of the ground affected the movements of the men, but despite this the forwards showed little cleverness and ability, and combined efforts were rarely witnessed. On the Everton side, Dilly filled the centre forward position fairly well, and I question whether he was not an improvement on Young. He certainly did endeavour to make the best of the chances which came his way, but in the majority of cases one of the Preston backs would intervene before he could get near the ball. Settle and Makepeace, and later on Taylor were of little use, and the only forward who played at all well was Hardman, who made some capital centres, and deservedly gained the only goal of the match. Tom Booth was responsible for some useful footwork, but the wing half-backs were not too effective. Despite the fact that both worked hard, they were never really equal to the demands upon them. Similarly throughout the team, the same monotony of mediocrity was noticeable, dogged plugging being frequently in evidence, while spirited and exhilarating football was wanting. Hill gave a promising display, and though lacking at times, he afforded glimpses of ability. Balmer, who played on the left, did well, and he is yet one of the most potent factors in the Everton defence.  Scott effected several fine clearances, and was the most prominent man in the team. High and low shots came alike to him, and the fact that he was never beaten is ample testimony to his efficiency. The Preston forwards were on a par with those of Everton, and their movements were characterized with the same measure of haphazard endeavour. Even the dapper outside right—Bond—was rarely brought into prominence, and both he and Sharp were disappointing. Much may have been expected from these clever wingers, but they completely failed to justify anticipations.  Sharp has been the mainstay of the Everton attack during the present season, and Bond’s abilities are common knowledge, but neither displayed a tithe of the skill which they possess.  At half-back Mclean and Tod were ceaseless workers, discarding finesse and delicacy of touch for vigour endeavor, and they meant getting the ball, no matter how or where.  Lyon spoiled his work in the first half by being frequently penalized, and the referee had to administer a word of advice to the impetuous left half-back.  At full back Preston shone, Rodway especially giving a fine exhibition of kicking and tackling.  Derbyshire, too, proved a sturdy defender, but he had not the cool resource of his comrade.  In goal McBride was equal to most of the demands upon him, but the grueling he received during that bully evidently affected his after-work.  Everton, won, but they created little satisfaction, and there is lacking a harmonious sympathy between the various branches of the team, which will invariably militate against a first-class exposition.  Everton; Scott; Hill, Balmer (W.); Taylor, Booth (captain), Abbott; Sharp, Makepeace, Dilly, Settle, and H.P.Hardman.   Preston North End; McBride; Derbyshire, Rodway; Mclean, Tod, Lyon; Bond, Maher, Smith, Turnbull, and Lockett.  Referee; J.H. Smith, Doncaster. 

PRESTON NORTH END RESERVES 0 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 8, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 22)
It was a decidedly good performance on the part of Everton to beat North End Reserves at Deepdale, for although the Prestonians occupy a lowly position (Last) in the table, they are a difficult side to beat on their own ground. What makes Everton performance all the more creditable is that for a part of the game they were without the service of Collins, who was hurt while effecting a fine save. This took place towards the interval, and after Everton had scored, though Chadwick. After the change of ends, Collins reappeared and but for poor shooting by Cooke the visitors would have scored on more than one occasion. Birnie had hard line in hitting the upright and towards the close Preston had a turn, but could not beat Collins and Everton won by the odd goal. Everton's defence was very sound all though. Collins effecting some grand saves. The visitors were too clever for the home forwards whole attack, were chiefly the result of individual rushes. With such support from their halves the Everton forwards should have done much better, but Quinn and Cooke were sadly at fault with their shooting. The ground however, was very slippery, and good shooting was almost out of the question. The defence best served the home side. Taylor making some fine clearances, while Orrell, after an absence, though injury gave a good account of himself at full back. Everton: - Collins, goal, Wildman and Wright, backs Black Chadwick, and Donaldson half-backs, Birnie, Rankin, Quinn, Cooke, and Butler forwards.

EVERTON v  PRESTON NORTH END
The Sportsman - Monday 08 January 1906
This match was played at Goodison Park in wet weather, before 10,000 spectators. Everton were short of Crelly, for whom Hill played, while Preston lacked the services of Bell and Wilson. At the last moment Dilly played centre-forward in place of Young. On the heavy ground play was strenuously contested, each goal being attacked in turn. Some capital work was exhibited by Dilly, Settle, and Hardman, but, on the other hand, Bond and Lockett were conspicuous for Preston. At half-time nothing had been scored. In the second half the exchanges were of a ding-dong description, and Taylor and Makepeace changed places. During a scrimmage in the goalmouth McBride was hurt, and it was not until close upon time that Hardman scored the winning goal for Everton, who won by one goal to love. Teams;
Everton; Scott (goal), Hill and W. Balmer (backs), Taylor, Booth (captain), and Abbott (half-backs), Sharp, Makepeace, Dilly, Settle, and Hardman (forwards).
Preston North End; McBride (goal), Derbyshire and Rodway (backs), McLean, Todd, and Lyon, (half-backs), Bond, Maher, Smith, Turnbull, and Lockett, (forwards0.

MUDDY, SHADY AND EVEN GAME AT THE EVERTON GROUND
Liverpool Echo - Monday 08 January 1906
Bee
We have every reason to be satisfied with Saturday’s football results. Everton have been showing a grade of improvement at each of their last three appearances in public, and by beating Preston they broke the run of defeats and drawn games, and there was joy in many thousands of home where Blue is the predominating colour.
When one comes to analyse matters there is some justification for the idea that the Rovers’ was the most dangerous club Liverpool had to face. Not since November 11, when they failed at Everton, had they been beaten. They had gathered in only 13 points from a similar number of games up to the visit to Goodison. The last nine matches have yielded 19 points; Derby County, Bury, and Newcastle United have all been beaten at Blackburn, and the Villa has away at Aston, while drawn games have been played with Liverpool, Notts County at home, and Manchester City and Middlesbrough away.
The progress of Everton has been consistent lately, and after a draw at Middlesbrough came a better display at Hude-road, and now a victory. In this victory two players stood out prominently. Scott, to my mind, saved Everton. His dives in the last few minutes after shots, which anyone would have remarked were “bound to score,” will long be remembered. He didn’t have many to negotiate, but those which came his way were always much more awkward to deal with than these which were sent in by the Everton forwards. He excelled when Tod drove in at express speed. It was a save, the better of which even Roose has not given. Hill aided most ably. He is a curious player, and incline to take football rather humorously. If he will make the most of the lighter side of the game no one blames him, but there must be a warning note issued; League football is a most serious matter. The last time I saw Hill was when he played against Liverpool Reserve, and then I told the readers of this column that some day he would make a second Spencer. My. Reasons for so doing were- that has a capital manner of kicking out “in a crush,” powerful, judicious, and helpful to the forwards, to whom he invariably places. A little more speed would add to his credit, and, in favourable comparison with the great back mentioned before, Hill shown, when necessary, honest and vigorous charging. That he is a strong kicker was shown by the goalkeeper calling on him to take the goal kicks. Only once did he look like being outdone, and this when he attempted to dribble in front of his own goal- a failing which of necessity must be discontinued. The forward line was still lucky, and McBride, till he was sat upon, bundled into, and accidentally kicked, had pretty nigh nothing to do. It was immediately after the famous keeper had been laid out that a pass from the right enabled Hardman to “get right there.” Dilly has as good an idea of pivot work as any centre forward tried by Everton so far, and it is a position he likes; in fact, I believe he has all along been desirous of acting at centre forward instead of on the left. He ought to be persevered with. Settle didn’t like the heavy going, and Hardman was held up when he attempted to sprint by the visiting back. One saw little of Taylor and Makepeace till they changed positions, and then the little man was a glutton for work. The directors must seriously consider whether they are gaining by putting him forward. Sharp was not able to get going because of the attentions of Lyon, who was unscrupulous. Not once, but many times, had the referee to penalise him, and he is the class of player who makes the football life of a gentleman like Sharp hardly worth continuing.
Also, W. Balmer marred an excellent display by a despicable foul on Bond, who had shown him a clean pair of heels. The little outside right looked reproachfully at the back. It was the only blemish on the Everton man’s good game- but the crowd were agreed that it was a big shot. Maher served Bond badly. However, the crack winger showed fine touches, and I particularly liked the way he went for the ball when it seemed certain to roll over the line. He was always having a try, and on one occasion got his foot round Balmer and centred absolutely accurately on the line. Lockett was the next best forward, and the backs are a capable couple. Everton were a trifle lucky that a draw was not the verdict.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORTS
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 08 January 1906
Everton have at length put an end to a series of defeats by whacking Preston North End, and it is to be hoped that this will be the turning point of fortune, and that the club will be raised into the first flight. Saturday's game, of course, was not very great, but still under the circumstances the players worked strenuously. The defence on both sides was superior to the attack. It was surprising to see how well the men kept steam up and plodded on through the mud. Taking the gams as a whole Everton deserved to win, but it must be said that the Preston forwards played better together,and they also had the advantage in point of dash.
Hill at full-back played a really good game for Everton, his tackling and kicking being greatly admired, whilst Scott kept his opponents out grandly. Preston played a rollicking game. Bond made good use of his speed, but strange to say he was occasionally neglected in the matter of passes. What is the reason? The defence was always resolute, and McBride got through a lot of work with distinction.
West Bromwich Albion, who are due to meet Everton at Goodison-park in the first round of the English Cup on Saturday next, will undergo a week’s special training at St. Annes-on-Sea. 

EVERTON GO TO BLACKPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 09 January 1906
Bee
Everton have sent their men away to Blackpool to undergo special training in view of the Cup tie they fulfil with West Bromwich Albion on Saturday at Goodison Park. An informal chat and dinner between all concerned would, I fancy, encourage the players to better football.

CRELLEY REJOINS HIS CLUBMATES AT BLACKPOOL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 10 January 1906
Bee
Crelley, the Everton back, this morning joined the other players at Blackpool. He is nearly well now. The Goodison directors will not choose their team till an hour before the match.

EVERTON PROSPECTS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 11 January 1906
ROUSING GAME ANTICIPATED AT THE PARK ENCLOSURE
Bee
There is every indication of a rousing game in store for visitors to Goodison Park on Saturday. The name of West Bromwich Albion stands for “Cup fighters.” The tip clings to them whether they are in a senior or second ranks, and the directors have shown their hopefulness by sending to men into special training at the seaside. Albion are lucky to catch the Blues in there time of distress for the Goodison men have yet to reach a high-water mark, their display having so far displeased their supporters.
The following players are at Blackpool in charge of trainer Elliott and Messrs B. Kelly, and E.A Bainbridge;- Scott (goal) W. Balmer, Hill and Crelley (backs), Wright, (half or backs), Taylor, Booth, Abbott, Makepeace, and Black (half backs), Sharp, McLaughlin, Young, Dilly, Settle, and H. P Hardman (forwards).
The directors have left over the selection until an hour before the match, and their position is not one of envy, left over the selection until an hour before the match, and their position is not one of envy. Robert Balmer, of course, will not be considered because of injury; and though Crelley joined the Blackpool party yesterday I am doubtful whether he will be in proper trim for Saturday. Then the directors will have to consider whether it is advisable to include a possible “passenger” in preference a Hill, whose promising display against Preston has been the subject of much complemented comment among the club’s supporters.
Here the selectors do not end their problems. There are others. The half back and forward line are equally hard to decide upon. After the manner in which Makepeace failed as partner in Sharp and (after he changed positions with Taylor) showed splendidly at right half- this is by common consent his best place-the officials will have to say whether a clever half back shall be released to make a forward of medium strength. The Albion have a set of fearless defenders, and therefore the Blue forward line should be so formed that the visitors will be hustled. Therefore, when problem three faces them the directors might with advantage consider the claim of the warrior “Jock” Taylor at inside right. He will not fear the most fearless, and to any mind the Blues attacking line may require one who will infuse fire into the work.
One more problem, and then ends the comment on team selection. Who shall be the pivot? Young is well now, and the question arises-Young or Dilly. After showing considerable dash Dilly last week fed away towards three-quarter time, and his drive to the extreme wing men were well meant, it badly served up. Taking into account the heavy going, I fancy that Dilly is the more liable to score of the twain. Is this not to best eleven at the club’s service?-Scott goal; Hill and W. Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Booth, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Dilly, Settle and Harold Hardman, forwards.
A west Bromwich correspondent writes;-
Formidable is the work in front of the Albion, but West Bromwich records are writ large in Cup history, and the hope is strong at the Hawthorns that Pheasent’s men will achieves the feat that Birmingham accompanied on November 25. We look upon the situation in a cheerful sprint and look forward to a triumph. The arrangements for the man’s stay at St. Annes next week have been concluded, and it is to be hoped that the briny breezes will impart much vigour to the “Throstle’s” song that he may be charging even after the momentous encounter with the pride of Toffeedom. In the old days-the good old days- however burly the Albion might be playing, the following world always expected something startling from them in the fight for the historic trophy which has twice found a resting place at West Bromwich. Seldom were three expectations disappointed; and though it seems paradoxid, yet the more  hopeless their task the more likelihood there was of the Albion performing it. That the present players will put on every chance they possess is certain, and as long as they make a good fight their supporters will not mind much what the result may be. Them, who expect nothing can’t got disappointed and the Albion may just possibly do the trick. Who knows?
Mr. Harry Keys has been laid low this week with a sharp attack of illness. He is the man whom the Albion lost some season or two ago, and thereby sink to the lowest depths. His return to the management of affairs was welcomed by the players, directors, and supporters of the club, for he was truly the right man in the right place, and to alone could perform the wonders he did perform.
Everton directors have covered thousands of miles all told in the last two months a order to strengthen their ranks, and a friend says that on one Saturday he saw six of than moving to different parts of the map in search of players. A.N. Other has been duly signed on, and in a week he will be trying with the reserves. He is a spendy customer, of youthful years and good shooting boots, whom I had pleasure in recommending the club to try.
HUGH BOLTON
A couple of well-known Scots were recently sought after, but no progress was made, and now comes further welcome information-that Hugh Bolton, who has been approached by Everton once before yesterday, had been transferred to the Goodison side for substantial fee. As an inside left, Bolton left a Scotch club in September, and the only occasion he appeared for the League champions, was against Sheffield United, when he played a useful game at inside right with Rutherford. Light on build, he is a smart dribbler.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 11 January 1906
The Everton directors are on the look-out for players with a view to strengthened the forward line, and to-day they have secured the signature of Hugh Bolton, an inside-left from Newcastle United. Bolton has played for the Northerners in their League match against Sheffield United this season. He comes to Everton with a good reputation as a forward.

NEW PLAYER FOR EVERTON.
January 12 1906. The Liverpool Courier
The Everton directors are on the look out for players with a view to strengthening the forward line, and yesterday they secured the signature of Hugh Bolton an inside left from Newcastle United. Bolton played for the Wolverhampton in the League match against Sheffield United this season. He comes to Everton with a good reputation as a forward.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Friday 12 January 1906
A Newcastle writer conforms my belief that Everton had been in negotiation for Hugh Bolton. It appears that an attempt was made some time ago by Everton officials to interview him (with Newcastle United’s consent, of course), but the Port Glasgow player would not even consent to a meeting with the Liverpool officials. It is quite likely that Bolton’s first appearance for his new masters will be as an inside right against Newcastle United, on January 20, at St. James’s Park, on the occasion of the joint benefit of Aitken and McIntyre.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 12 January 1906
Everton are also likely to have plenty to do to beat West Bromwich, as the latter club are old cup fighters, and are at present doing exceedingly well in the “lower house.” At any rate, whatever the result of the match might be, a good exhibition of the dribbling code can confidently be looked forward to.
With regard to Hugh Bolton, the new player that Everton have secured from Newcastle United, it may be stated that he is a very promising footballer, 24 years of age, 5 feet 7 ½ inches in height, and weighs 11 stone. Whilst with Newcastle he has not had many opportunities of playing in first-class games on account of the Northerners being so well served at inside left by Ronald Orr. Bolton has played in the junior international matches for Scotland.

BEN RICKERBY
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 13 January 1906
LANCASHIRE AMATEUR LEAGUE
Ben Rickerby, of Southport, has been a familiar figure in local football circles for some years. His first club was Norwood, which is now defunct, and with which Lionel Watson, late of Blackburn Rovers, was once connected. His next experience of football was during a college course at Edinburgh. From thence he went to Dublin, where he was associated with the Bohemians. This was in the season 1902-3. Up to this time Ben, who is now 25 years of age, had operated in the full back position, but in the later stages of his career with the Bohemians he went inside left, and ever since he has been in the forward line. In the season following, Rickerby joined Southport Central, and after playing a few matches with the reserves, was tried with the seniors. There are many who hold that he was never given a thorough trial. At any rate few were surprised when Rickerby played with Everton Reserve towards the end of the season.
Subsequently, that is to say in the season 1904-5, he played for the Southport Y.M.C.A., at right inside, and for part of the season he was centre forward. At present he leads the attack. He helped the club wo win the Wakefield Shield, and has seen it promoted to the Lancashire Amateur League. Frankly, Rickerby is a player of moods. At times he seems to revel in his work and puts in some brilliant touches; but there are off-days. He is possessed of more than average turn of speed, and is a capital shot. This season, while Smith was hurt, Rickerby acted on one occasion as the pivot of the Central front line.

BEN RICKERBY
January 13, 1906. Lancashire Evening Post
Ben Rickerby, of Southport, has been a familiar figure in local football circles for some years. His first club was Norwood, which is now defunct, and with Lionel Watson, late of Blackburn Rovers, was once connected. His next experience of football was during a college course at Edinburgh. From thence he went to Dublin, where he was associated with the Bohemians. This was in the season 1902-3. Up to this time, Ben, who is now 25 years of age, had operated in the full back position, but in the later stages of his career with the Bohemians he went inside left, and ever since he has been in forward line. In the season following, Rickerby joined Southport Central, and after playing a few matches with the reserves was tried with the seniors. There are many who hold that he was never given a thorough trial. At any rate few were surprised when Rickerby played with Everton Reserves towards the end of the season. Subsequently, that is to say in the season 1904-5, he played for the Southport Y.M.C.A, at right inside, and for part of the season he was centre forward. At present he leads the attack. He helped the club to win the Wakefield Shield, and has seen it promoted to the Lancashire Amateur League. Frankly, Rickerby is a player of moods. At times he seems to revel in his work and puts in some brilliant touches; but there are off-days. He is possessed of more than average turn of speed, and is a capital shot. This season, while Smith was hurt, Rickerby acted on one occasion as the pivot of the Central front line.

EVERTON STILL A CHANCE
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 13 January 1906
THROSTLES JUST OUTPLAYED
WEAK FORWARD PLAY BY THE “BLUES.”
The League tournament is suspended today in order that the competition for the national trophy, the English Cup, may be seriously entered upon. As a result of the draw, Everton found themselves pitted against West Bromwich Albion, and in view of the Midlanders’ record the fight was bound to be a keen and strenuous one. Despite many vicissitudes, the Albion may be regarded as born cup-fighters, and doubtless the recognition of this fact induced the Everton directors to send their players into training. The Goodison Park brigade have not being doing themselves anything like justice of late, but it was hoped that the bracing breezes of Blackpool might bring them back to form. Equally determined to put up a good show, the Birmingham men were in strict training at St. Annes, and they arrived in Liverpool, this morning, in the best of health and spirits. It is interesting to note that the teams met in this competition thirteen years ago, victory then resting with Everton by 4 goals to 1.
Although there were several flying showers during the morning, the afternoon turned out beautifully fine, and a great stream of spectators set in northwards at one o’clock. With the counter attraction across the park the stream became diverted at Everton-valley, and there were not more than 10,000 people present when the teams appeared. There was only one change from last week, Dilly dropping out and Young resuming the responsible position of centre forward. The visitors were also at full strength, and encouraging cheers went up when they faced each other as follows;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Hill and W. Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Booth (captain), and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle and Hardman, forwards.
West Bromwich Albion.- Stringer, goal; Williams and Pennington, backs; Randle, Pheasent (captain), and Manners, half-backs; Bradley, Simmonds, Shinton, Heywood, and Law, forwards. Referee.- Mr. Armitt, of Leek.
The Everton captain was beaten in the toss, and Young kicked off against what wind was blowing and facing the sun. after a few exchanges Sharp came in possession, and was going strongly when bothered by Manners, the ball going out of play. The throw-in led to a corner, which was spoiled by an infringement in the goalmouth. Sharp had another try, but was again beaten by Manners, who got out of a difficulty when on the ground in fine style. Then Bradley and his partner ran down their wing, and Scott gathered the ball as Shinton was pronounced offside. The home contingent again swooped down on the Throstles’ goal, and when the players were closing in from all quarters Pheasant made a fine clearances. Hill then had a hand in steadying the West Bromwich left-wingers, after which the Everton halves broke up several rushes. Mainly through superior play the home forwards worked down on the right, and Sharp putting in a glorious centre, Pennington had no option but to give a corner. This led to a terrific bombardment, which ended in Abbott driving hard to Stringer, who just managed to put the ball behind. A second corner was the result, and again Abbott tried to draw first blood with a tremendously swift shot. The Albion custodian, however, was not to be caught napping, and he saved with remarkable brilliancy. After this there was rather a long spell of midfield work, but nothing of consequence happened. Abbott at  length gave to Hardman, who raced away at top speed and placed the ball at Settle’s toe, but the latter was too slow, and a glorious opportunity was lost. A few minutes later Young was in a very favourable position for scoring, but he shaped very feebly and another chance went begging. At this time the Evertonians were having all the best of the argument, but the way the three inside forward fell away when in front of goal was really deplorable. Both Sharp and Hardman put in several capital centres, only to see the ball pushed back again by either Pennington or Williams. Hardman enlivened the proceedings by a fine run and a smart drive by the side of the post. Bradley got away and tried a long shot, after which Balmer and Hill each put in startling work, the last-named shinning well against Law and Heywood. Good play by Booth gave the home left wingers an opening, Hardman taking the ball close in, but Young failed to rise to the occasion. Just afterwards Sharp worked for position, and sent in a low shot to Stringer who saved neatly. The Evertonians, however, now became more persistent and Makepeace putting forward to Taylor, the latter had a shot without success. Then Booth passed neatly out to Hardman, and the little amateur, working his way through, scored an excellent goal after the game had been in progress about half an hour. This success stimulated the Evertonians to further efforts and another attack on the left resulted in a corner, from which the ball was banged only inches wide of the upright. It was now quite obvious that the Evertonians were the cleverer team, but their weakness in front of goal enabled the Albion defence to clear upon a number of occasion. A sprint by the West Bromwich left wing threatened danger, but Hilly cleared his lines very finely. Everton got away on the left, and Settle gave the ball to Young, who was just about to shoot when he was put offside. The visitors forced a barren corner, after which a glorious run by Sharp nearly ended in disaster for the Throstles. Settle followed with a sweet little shot, and after Simmons had sent in a long one to Scott the ball came to the home half-backs, and then Sharp darted away a mistake by Pennington fairly letting him have a clear course. Going on gaily, he steadied himself at the finish, and scored a very fine goal. A minute later the visitors broke away, and the Everton defence was completely beaten, Heywood scoring a simple sort of goal. The rest of the initial half was rather in favour of Everton.
Half-time score.- Everton 2 goals, West Bromwich Albion 1 goal.
When the teams reappeared after the usual interval the attendance had increased to somewhere about 18,000. Shanton restarted and play for a little while was fairly even, the teams attacking in term. A centre from Sharp was nearly turned to good account by a header from Hardman. Later the Evertonians almost monopolised the game, but as a rule finished very poorly in front of goal. Stringer saved a neat shot from Settle, and then the homesters gained a corner, from which Settle netted the ball, but Mr. Armitt declined to allow the point. Stringer saved from Sharp, and then the Albion forwards broke away in line, a fine passing move ending in Scott being called upon by Shilton, Hardman broke away, but there was no one to receive his centre, and a moment later Taylor gave Stringer a warm handful. A rush by the visitors was followed by a bully in front of goal, and a corner, from which tight place the homesters engaged owing to the ball being sent behind. Sharp provided an opening for his side, and one of the backs and the goalkeeper coming too far from the goal Makepeace succeeded in augmenting the Everton score some thirty-five minutes after the restart,
Final result;- Everton 3 goals, West Bromwich Albion 1 goal
“F.E.H” ON THE GAME
Everton have leapt the first stile that stands between here and the Crystal Palace, but the manner of their leaping was not such as to imagine over-confidence. Without the slightest desire to depreciate a pronounced victory, candour compels me to say that the display of the home side might very easily have been better. The Throstles of to-day are not the lively birds they were in times gone by, yet they gave the Goodison Park contingent a rare good run for their money; and at one parled it quite looked as though their might make a draw of it. In the second period especially they let chances go by, and at the close the Evertonians retired with the comforting reflection that for the second time in their history they had out-manoeuvred the men from the Midlands. Blackpool has evidently put plenty of stamina into the wearers of the blue jersey, but it seems to have been singularly inoperativein improving their powers of shooting. When in front of goal the forwards, instead of going right through, suddenly proceed to “tread the primrose paths of idle dalliance,” so to speak, and while they are apparently looking for the pale-fared flower the opposing backs have ample time to close their lines. This imagery may sound rather far-fetched, but if you look into the matter closely I think you will find that the analogy is perfectly admirable. Still, despite their defects, the Evertonians gained the verdict and that after all in the main issue. When the next round comes along they may be equally advanced in point of play. If not, that alluring vision known colloquially an “the final” may be ruthlessly swept aside. However, sufficient unto the day is to victory thereof, I sincerely congratulated Everton and hope they will go further in the great struggle. In the first half the Evertonians speedily showed that they were cleverer and held greater command of the ball than their opponents, but all this was not their deplorable weakness in front of goal. Time after time the two wingers in hardman and Sharp, centred in the proved fashion, only to find that what which they had created either stupidly or altogether thrown away. Things went on in his fashion for half an hour, when the plucky little Blackpool amateur politely showed a clever heels to Williams, and coolly netted out of Stringer’s reach. Play fell back again almost into the old rut, where it seemed too remain, until Sharp, in a laudable emulation, ran past Pennington and give his side a lead of two clear goals. This was scarcely warranted by the play, and the invariable law of averages came into operation when Heywood scored. Thus the home side were only one ahead when the half for lemons and other was called. The second half saw a great insert in the play of both sides, but the issue was placed beyond doubt with Makepeace, remembering that he was a good as a half back, scored the third goal. As I have already attempted to say Hardman and Sharp were head and above the other forwards. Settle was a little improvement in the later stages, Young was never in the picture. The half backs all played well, Booth ever ready with both head and foot I am glad to be able to chronicled welcome return to his best form. He failed to score from two hard drives one of those things no fellow can understand. Hill is rapidly developing into a first class full back. I am told he play a grandly last week, and to-day he shone conspicuously on several occasions. Scott had not over-much to do like the House of Lords in Good Kin glorious time, “he did it very well. The Throstles tried hard through during the whole ninety minutes and at times showed fine hustling tactics; but never really quite a match for the opponents. One would like to see them in the First Division all the same.

ALBION v  EVERTON
Sports Argus - Saturday 13 January 1906
THROSTLES NOT EQUAL TO BIG UNDERTAKING
UNSTEADY FORWARDS
By “Mavis”
The Albion were not favoured by fortune when the luck of the draw decreed that they should encounter Everton at Goodison Park. In the first round for the blue ribbon of the football world the task was one of the hardest the club could have been set. But its apparent hopelessness did not daunt the West Bromwich brigade. The Albion were determined to make a bold bid for victory. Their record in the Cup competitions against Everton was confined to one solitary match, won by the Toffee men in decisive fashion, while in League games Everton had at Goodison Park won 11, lost 3, and drawn 1.
Still the Albion’s performances in the Cup fights are greatly superior to those of their opponents of to-day. Everton have been doing moderately in the League having called upon twenty-eight players for the first team this season. The composition of their eleven was doubtful until shortly before the game, while on the other hand the Albion had, with two exceptions, the same eleven as they commenced the season with, and the side that had been doing excellently in the Second Division.
Both sets of players had been spending the week at the seaside within a couple of miles of each other in preparation for today’s stern work. The Albion team was as in the last two matches. The home team made three changes, Taylor and Makepeace being changed about while Young took the place of Dilly in the centre. Teams;-
Everton.- Scott, Hill and W. Balmer; Makepeace, Booth (captain), and Abbott, Sharp, Taylor, Young, Settle and Hardman
West Bromwich Albion.- Stringer, Williams and Pennington,Randle, Pheasent (captain), and Manners, Bradley, Simmonds, Shinton, Heywood, and Law.
There would be 12,000 spectators when the teams turned out, both being well received. Winning the toss Pheasent elected to kick with the sun behind him. Sharp at pace broke away and formed a corner, but the whistle went for some offence when the Albion goal was jeopardised. The Albion forwards went down the field well, and from Shinton’s pass Heywood shot just outside. Another attack caused Scott trouble, and then Hardman, getting well away, sent across a centre that went begging. The Albion seemed rather too excited to settle down, and Pennington conceded a corner, but Manners headed away Settle’s shot. Pheasent lucky saved when Sharp had run close in, and then Stringer twice saved finely from Abbott. For some minutes Everton were within an ace of scoring, but the Albion defence finally triumphed, Pennington neatly beating the home left. Offside against hardman spoiled a capital attack. It was a well-fought encounter, but the home side were having the best of matters. The Albion right now caused the Everton defence trouble, but Everton took up the attack again, only to find the Albion defence equal to the occasion. Hardman ended a splendid run with a centre that hit the post, and Bradley got favourably placed, but sent high over the bar. Again the home left-winger beat all opposition, but Pheasant intercepted him at the end of his effort. Young had to be cautioned for unfair tactics. The Albion were triers, but their combination was not effective. Sharp beat Manners, and Booth, securing, sent to Hardman, who scored from close range. Sharp was proving a dangerous customer and all but got through while Settle sent slightly wide. Williams neatly checked Hardman and the Albion right, got dangerous, but Balmer cleared. Securing a long pass Sharp raced away and, beating Pennington, finished up with a shot that found the net.
The Albion though trying gamely, were no match for their cleverer opponents but, breaking away, Heywood scored from long range. Offside checked another attack.
Half-time;- Everton 2 Albion 1
The game continued to be stoutly contested, but the home team swung the ball about well, and their extreme wingers proved very effective. The Albion defence was severely tried, and the crowd hardly relished Young being given offside when well placed. Law was given a good pass but failed to make any headway, and Bradley forced a corner from which Pheasant headed just over the bar, and another corner proved fruitless. The Albion began to move in promising style, and the right wing found the home backs some work to do. A run by Sharp relieved the Everton defenders, Hardman heading his centre into the side of the net. Again the Albion returned, and looked like scoring, Scott securing the ball and getting all but charged over by Simmons. Bradley had a try, which just failed to come off, and another capital centre from him was headed out by Hill as the forwards were rushing in unison for goal. The Albion were now doing most of the pressing, Hill cleverly clearing his lines, and enabling Sharp to get away and give Stringer a warm handful. The game was being fought with real cup-tie vigour, and the visitors warmed up to their work in capital style. Everton kept feeding Sharp to the almost complete exclusion of Hardman, and a scrimmage in the Albion goal ended in Settle and Abbott forcing the ball into the net, but obstruction of Stringer nullified the point. The Albion delivered another attack, but there was little sting behind it, and though the ball was sent to Law, he failed to do anything. The Albion worked extremely hard to retrieve their position, and Hill cleared from Bradley on the goal-line, while Stringer only saved from Sharp by conceding a corner. After twenty-seven minutes’ play Makepeace came across and met a centre from Taylor, finding the net for the third time. It was all over now, but the Albion stuck gamely to their work, and nearly scored again.
Result- Everton 3 West Bromwich 1
GOSSIP ON THE GAME
It was very evident that Everton meant trying for all they were worth. Right from the commencement they played an open long passing game that taxed the Albion defenders. Hardman and Sharp were fast and clever, the ex-Villa man especially, and Manners found in him more than he could manage.
The first goal was the result of his effort and the second came quite off his own bat.
The Albion’s weakness was forward, the front line never seeming to get thoroughly into their stride. Wild passes were too frequent, and there was an absence of cohesion.
Heywood’s goal was well worked for, and this gave the Throstle heart. They stuck to their work pluckily and in defence at least showed to advantage.
The Everton forwards might have done better but for some exhibitions of weakness at critical moments, Young seeming rather uncertain.
Though the Albion did the attacking in the last half they were no match for their opponents individually or as a combination. Still, they never ceased trying, and the right wing did some capital work.
Shinton failed to do anything of note, and Pheasent was the best of the three hard-working halves. The defence was good, and Stringer was free of blame for the goals registered against him.
The home side was strong in defence, Hill being specially smart and their halves were too much for the Albion attacks which were not pushed home.
Among the forwards Sharp was the shining light, with Hardman giving occasional flashes of brilliance and Settle being always on the go.
The Everton third goal made the result certain and only Stringer’s cleverness kept the Albion goal from falling again. It was victory for the better team.
THE “GATE”
Official return show that 18,000 people passed though the turnstiles, £488 being taken.

EVERTON 3 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 1
January 15, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON DISPOSE OF THE THROSTLES.
MEETING OLD CUP FIGHTERS.
Everton have managed to survive the first round of the English Cup competition. This was very satisfactory to their supporters, of whom there were 18,000 assembled on Saturday at Goodison-park, to witness the tie with West Bromwich club which in the course of its career has taken no small share in English Cup tie honours. They have worked their way into the final on no fewer than five occasions, and on two of those have proved themselves the proud victors. Once before only had these two clubs met in the competition viz, in 1893 at Goodison-park when Everton vanquished them by four goals to one though coming to grief in the final round at the hands of the Wolves. With their past history in mind, therefore, the event of Saturday was invested with considerable interest especially so as the Throstles are making a bold bid to get out of the second division of the league, an effort for which every hope of success is held out. They have some young and sterling players in their ranks, and it will not be their fault if the club is not promoted to the higher ranks. The players of both sides had been benefiting from the bracing seaside air- Everton being at Blackpool, and the Albion at the St.Annes-on-the-sea. This change of atmosphere seemed to have had a good effect on the men, for they were as frisky as lambs. In the disposition of the Everton team, which was not decided upon until an hour or so before the start on account of the conditions of the ground. Makepeace resumed at right half-backs. Taylor figuring at inside right. Crelly was still absent, and Hill again operated, whilst Young was once again seen at centre forward, vice Dilly.
ALBION DASH.
Those who had anticipated a hard struggle between the teams were not disappointment. It was a keen contest all the way for honours, indeed, measured by the balance of the play the 3-1 victory which accrued to the Goodison combination is scarcely representative. It was evident that the Throstles meant business from the first. In the early stages there was some brilliant work on the Everton wings, which boded no good for the visitors. It was marvelous how the Albion goal escaped during a series of rapidly recurring corners in which Abbott was more conspicuous-than anybody else Stringer, the visiting custodian only saving a grand “header” from the half-back with difficulty. Then followed some dashing attacks by the Midlanders in which Simmons bore a great part, and, as a counterpart the capital defence of Hill and W.Balmer stood out prominently. When the game was 25 minutes old Everton took the lead with a pretty shot from the foot of Hardman, it was a question at one time whether the clever winger should turn out, but the decision to play him certainly proved a very wise one as matters eventuated. The lead was increased shortly before half-time by Sharp with a very well judged shot. The efforts of the visitors, who were putting in all they knew were rewarded a minute or two later, when Haywood completely beat Scott. The second half was, if anything more strenuous than the first, the Throstles in their desire to at any rate draw level. In finding any amount of dash into their play. It could never be said that they were overplayed, indeed, the play in the latter part of this half was in favour of the visitors. about eighteen from the finish Makepeace increased Everton's lead and they finished with a good advantage.
WHERE EVERTON SUCCEEDED.
There were several flashes of good individual play on both sides. On the Everton side Sharp played at great game on the right running in brilliant fashion and proving a thorn in the side of Law and Haywood. Some of his centres were not always taken advantage of, and chances were missed on this account. Besides being responsible for one of the goals, he had a good share in the first that was scored. On the other wing Hardman played a rattling game in which there were judgement and resource combined. young, on the day's play could hardly be considered an improvement in Dilly, indeed, he played a very uneven games, and somehow or other did not seem at home. The performance of Hill, and Balmer especially the first named it would be impossible to over praised. Hill's heading in tight corners was a source of strength, and on one occasion he saved what would have been a certain goal. The Throstles are a well-balanced lot, and made a good impression on the spectator. No one worked harder than Simmons, who was often dangerous, whilst once Bradley gave Scott a handful. The defence was of a sound order although Pennington was occasionally quite out generated by Sharp. Stringer proved himself a fine custodian, bringing off some very clever saves.
Teams: - Everton: - Scott goal, Hill, and W.Balmer backs, Makepeace, Booth (Captain), and Abbott half-backs Sharp Taylor, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. West Bromwich Albion: - Striner goals, Williams, and Pennington, backs, Randles, Phessant, and Manners half-backs, Bradley, Simmons, Shinton, Heywood, and Law forwards. Referee Mr. Armittleck.

EVERTON JUST SCRAMBLE HOME
Athletic News - Monday 15 January 1906
By Sprinter
Very few words are necessary to tell the tale of Everton’s narrow victory over West Bromwich Albion.  To bring to one’s aid a well-worn expression that “the score by no means represents the run of play” is perhaps the best thing I can do on the spur of the moment.  Never were so few words so full of meaning.  Everton triumphed at home by 3-1, but there was never that difference between the elevens.  True, there was a distinction, and it is best described by a little thought that it was all the difference between the setting of fine English jewellery and that we see in Belgium or from the Far East.  It was all the difference between elegant finish and the rough-turned material.
NOT A GREAT VICTORY
Therefore, it was not a great victory, and the victors were by no means streets ahead of their less favoured rivals.  The run of the play was as distinct as possible-a flash of Evertonian brilliance; Sharp on one wing and Hardman on the other.  Thrice did he drop the ball nicely in the centre of Stringer’s citadel; thrice did the Everton half-back line pop the ball just a shade over the bar.  Then a lively tune piped by the “Throstles” next an effort by all the Everton front five, culminating in Hardman scoring the first goal at the end of 26 minutes.  He had deserved it, for his individualities were undeniably brilliant.  Sharp at the other side of the field seemed spurred on to something great, for the end of one of his personal periods was the beating of Pennington 25 yards out, the quick revolving of that burly fellow on his heel, and a delightful chase, Sharp, ball at toe, curling, cavorting, trickling and potting the leather as surely past Stringer as Melbourne Inman crashes a billiard ball down into the pocket.  That was at the end of 40 minutes, but it was a thrilling thing.  After three Evertonians had missed an open goal, the ball was switched across the field to Heywood, and in a twinkling he had it past Scott, to reduce the lead to 2-1, and that was how the sides changed over.
“THROSTLES” REIGN FOR 26 MINUTES
The “Throstles” for 26 minutes of the second half reigned well-nigh supreme.  They looked like equalisers many times, for Scott thrice was in Queer Street, but luck helped Everton, or else that lack of finish spoken of already spoiled the “Throstles” swinging forward work.  At the 27th minute, however, in a flash, Everton were assured of victory.  In the gathering gloom the ball went to Everton’s right, a thrust was made with it towards Sharp, little Makepeace intervened, and drove it out of the sprightly Stringer’s grasp.  That ended the scoring.
CANDID CRITICISM
Everton may want some new players; indeed one captious critic put the number at seven.  That would leave but four gems in the setting of eleven.  To carry on that critic’s simile, I ask, who are the four? Sharp, Hardman, Makepeace, and Hill were certainly the quartette to shine as pure white diamonds on Saturday’s form.  The others were just ordinary brilliants.  Scott was hesitant; beaten by the fight of the ball on three occasions to my count from the serial seats from which the game is watched; but once did luck and twice did Hill save his keeper.  Indeed, Hill was the defender of the day; the best back on the field, the very embodiment of coolness.  Balmer (W.) was at fault half a dozen times; once Hill covered up one of his sins with a clever clearance.  It seemed all Hill and very little of anyone else.  Everton’s middle line was not a great one.  Makepeace was the only one to stay the full ninety minutes against the persistent, plodding, pushful tactics of the “Throstles” front five.  It was Makepeace’s third goal which turned the match (I won’t say completely) into the favour of the home men.  Until it came, anything might have happened, for I can’t get the fact out of mind that for 26 minutes in the second half Everton were fretting and fuming under the scourge of a heavy attack.  The 27th minute, however, sealed the fate of the Albion.  Abbott was as good as inoperative, and Booth never once rose out of the rut of just ordinary usefulness.  Settle struggled strenuously, but he was the only inside man to back up the thrilling work of the two wingers.  Stringer and his backs merit all the praise that can be lavished upon them.  Not sparkling, perhaps, but there was an unceasing utility in the work of Pennington and Williams that was noteworthy.  Pheasant was the star of a middle line of obstructionists; he was the chief executioner or head chopper of many movements.  He kind of suggested the guillotine of the French Revolution.  Bradley, Simmons, and Heywood shone effulgently forward for the “Throstles,” but Shinton the burly, Shinton the slasher, the Appleyard of the Hawthorns, never had his chance.  How he failed to come off I can’t imagine.  It was one of the mysteries of the game – and it held a few.  Everton; Scott; Hill, W. Balmer; Makepeace, Booth, Abbott; Sharp, Taylor, Settle, Hardman, and Young.  West Bromwich Albion; Stringer; Pennington, Williams; Manners, Pheasant, Randle; Law, Heywood, Simmons, Bradley, and Shinton.  Referee; T. Armitt, Leek. 

ALBION KNOCKED OUT.
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 15 January 1906
EVERTON PROVE TOO GOOD FOR THE MIDLANDERS.
BY “SPECTATOR.”
EVERTON 3; WEST BROMWICH, 1
Although West Bromwich Albion were defeated by Everton at Goodison Park, they had the satisfaction of thoroughly extending their opponents. There was one occasion in the second half when a bit of luck probably saved Everton from having to come to the Hawthorns. A low drive from Bradley looked certain to score, and was actually on the line when Hill rushed ups and kicked away.
At this time Everton were only one goal ahead, and the Albion attacks, initiated chiefly by the right wing, looked like bringing some reward. The first three goals could hardly have been better, and Everton had to thank Sharp, the ex-Villa player, for their win. He was the chief thorn in the side of the Albion defenders, his speed and resource when tackled proving more than Manners and Pennington could cope with.
A centre from him brought the Everton men in front of goal, and after two unsuccessful shots Booth passed to Hardman, who scored with a low crone drive. The second goal Sharp obtained by brilliant individual play, racing round Pennington, and, just before being tackled again, putting in a shot that gave Stringer no chance.
Despite these reverses the Albion were far from beaten. Heywood crowned a neat bit of passing by shooting so unexpectedly that before it was realised what had happened the hall rested in the net. The game was fought right up to the finish, but when Makepeace finally secured a third goal the Albion were too evidently working against odds.
BETTER WINGERS.
Everton’s victory may safely be ascribed to more effective work on the part of their wing men. Law, for the Albion, did very little all through, and Simmons and Bradley had to make most of the Albion's openings. On the other hand, Sharp was always dangerous when he got fairly away, and Hardman, though less conspicuous, did a lot of useful work. While Stringer kept goal capitally, the visiting backs lacked a good understanding, andWilliams's want of experience in supporting the halves gave Everton many openings. The winners played the long passing game excellently, but with the exception of Settle the inside forwards failed to shine. Pheasant kept Young very well in hand. Hill was the better of the Everton defenders, and Makepeace stood out among the intermediate trio, but Scott only had one or two chances of showing his ability as a goalkeeper. Before the Albion went on the field a telegram from the Liberal candidate at Walt Bromwich was received by Pheasant, the captain, which ran; "Play up Throstles. Wish you success" The attendance was officially stated to be 18,000, and the receipts £488.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 15 January 1906
The game at Goodison-park was a much better exhibition of the dribbling code. The Throstles played with rare dash, and the margin in favour of Everton at the finish was rathermore than the visitors deserved to be defeated by. They played remarkably well, andit took the home team all their time to win. But all's well that ends well, and the question now is, who will be Everton's and Liverpool's respective opponents in the second round? It is to be hoped that they will not follow each other out of the hat. But the draw will be seen on another page of the "six o' clock" and "last editions" of the "Express.
On the Everton. side Sharp played a great game on the right, running in brilliant fashion and proving a thorn in the side of Law and Heywood. Some of his centres were not always taken advantage of, and chances were missed on this account. Besides being responsible for one of the goals, he had a good share in the first that was scored. On the other wing Hardman played a rattling game, in which there were judgment and resource combined. Young, on the day's play, could hardly be considered an improvement on Dilly. The Throstles are a well-balanced lot, and made a good impression on the spectators.
KITCHEN
It is not often that a goalkeeper scores a goal, but Kitchen, besides defending his charge splendidly against Woolwich Arsenal on Saturday in the English Cup tie, accomplished that feat. Halfway through the first half the West Ham side were awarded a penalty kick, and to every one's surprise Gardner, who captained the "Hammers," called for Kitchen. The latter walked very unconcernedly up to the ball, placed it to suit his fancy, let drive as though it was a matter of everyday concern, and landed the ball in the left corner, of the net.

EVERTON RETURN TO BLACKPOOL TO TRAIN
January 16, 1906. The Liverpool Echo
Yesterday the Everton footballers resumed their training at Blackpool in view of the match with the League champions Newcastle have already extracted two points from the Blues, and Saturday's match must be accounted most difficult for the Liverpool team. The men who made the journey from Exchange Station in charge of Messrs Wade and Cope and Trainer Elliottt were;- Scott; Crelly, Hill, Abbott, Wright, Young, and Dilly. Settle received an awkward ankle injury on Saturday and be along with Taylor, Booth, Makepeace, and W. Balmer will join their comrades later on. It is not known to the Everton supporters that Hardman asked the directors half an hour before the kick off on Saturday to excuse him as he feared he could not do his club or himself justice. However he was persuaded to play, and therefore his excellent forward work is all the more creditable to him.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 17 January 1906
Everton’s supporters will be keenly interested as to the outcome of the replay between Chesterfield Town and Clapton Orient, which takes place to-day. As the game is to be played at Chesterfield, the probability is that the home team will pass into the second round, especially when it is seen that the Orient’s record is very poor for away matches and that Chesterfield have only once been beaten at home. Crewe Alexandra and Barnsley play off their tie tomorrow.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 17 January 1906
Amidst the struggling of the Everton directors to unearth a centre forward to do duty for their chief team local partisans have been asking “Where’s Oliver?” Oliver’s connection with the Goodison organisation has been an extra-ordinary one. He came from the
Southern shoves to Everton at the beginning of the season, a tall, slim-built fellow of but twenty-one years of age, and he showed by his display with the Reserve team that he knew where the goalposts were situated. The ill-health of Young caused the directors to try the youngster at centre forward in the match with Notts County, and he snatched his opportunity with both hands and both feet, and, being up against a Reserve half-back he shot with force and persistency, and was credited with performing the hat trick.
One thought that Everton had at last found the missing link in an uncertain chain; but Oliver went to Stoke and failed and two more poor exhibitions followed, and so he was dropped to the Reserve team again. What happened afterwards is to a degree conjecture, but certain it is that the Mersey air did not suit him, and Oliver was missed from training. It is said that he returned to his home in Southampton and refused to play for Everton. This of course, is a matter which the F.A could deal with, and having broken a signed agreement the Association could, if called upon, suspend him from taking further part in football. whether the Everton officials have taken up the matter I cannot say. It seems a pity, however, that a lad full of promise should have ceased playing with a club in which he had a great chance of making a name.
 “Shareholder” writes re Everton;-
“I thank you for voicing the opinion of the crowd by putting your partisan query to the Everton directors as to why they will persist in playing Young after his repeated failures. I have watched the Toffee boys from the Stanley Park days, and don’t remember any player who has such peculiar tactics as Young. After brilliant work by the other forwards Sandy has the ball passed to him in front of goal, and instead of shooting turns his back on the goal! Dilly on his form the other week is miles ahead of Young at his best, and the Everton directors should reinstate him at once if the club is to rise in the League table or go further in the Cup-ties.
Well, Mr. “Shareholder,” I candidly confess that Young at his best is better than Dilly, therefore disagreeing with one of your remarks. Yet to me it is extraordinary that the Scot should receive so many trials. I feel strongly on the point, and would ask again, “On what form do the selectors declare in favour of Young’s selection?”

EVERTON F.C. PAY A BIG PRICE TO CHESTERFIELD
January 18, 1906. The Liverpool Echo
I disagree with the Everton policy in purchasing Chesterfield and similarly Liverpool's endeavour to buy up Barnsley. Yesterday when the rough match –two players were sent off the field –was concluded at Chesterfield, the Everton officials tempted the Second Division representatives, who must have kept their visitors at bay for some time, at the club had to run up to £5000 before Chesterfield cried “agreed.” Chesterfield whatever the elements may be on February 3 will gain £500. What is their drawing power as compared with West Bromwich Albion who drew a gate which did not reach £500? The Chesterfield ground is a ridge one and no wonder their directors are proud to point out that they have not been beaten there by any First Division team.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 18 January 1906
Chesterfield easily defeated Clapton Orient in the replay, and now the former team will have to meet Everton in the second round. After the match yesterday the Chesterfield officials immediately accepted an offer of £500 to play their match with Everton at Goodison-park, instead of at Chesterfield, so that the Second Division club will have done very well, financially, out of the competition.

SHARP THE ONLY REGULAR FORWARD
January 19, 1906. The Liverpool Echo
Ordinary Everton made the journey to Newcastle with trepidation. This day they have left their training quarters with less hope of victory than ever before. Harold Hardman is run down in health; perhaps he has been giving his services too frequently to amateur organization. For so diminutive a player his stamina is astounding. Acting on medical advice he is resting this week-end. More misfortune for the club comes the announcement that Settle will most probably be unable to assist the colours. One of the Albion defenders kicked his ankle and he has suffered much pain this week, being unable to put a boot on. Everton are having as rough a journey as they ever experienced. Grundy and McLaughlin went to Blackpool during the week. Booth too has an damage ankle and the team to do duty includes Dilly at centre and McLaughlin and Grundy on the left, while Taylor is moved to centre half. Zest will be lent to the match at St. James's Park by the fact that Andrew Aitken, who will captain the team, and McIntyre, the second team reserve half-back will take a joint benefit. On most occasions the Liverpool and Newcastle eleven produce one of the finest games to be seen for the combination are so similar. In addition to this, Newcastle United are still hopeful of running the best club in the League a determined race for the retention of the championship. The Newcastle directors met last night to select their team and only found it necessary to make one alteration. Gardiner the right half, who has been acting captain for some time was knocked about not a little in the Grimsby Cup tie; thus the opportunity presented itself of playing one of the beneficiaries in the person of Aikten. The other partropator in the “benefit” McIntyre would shot have got his place in the team had been well, but this he is not unfortunately. Kick-off at 2.30. It is almost unique that a player should transfer his services, and at the first appearance in the new jersey be pitted against his most recent club mates. This is the one of Hugh Bolton, whom Everton signed on a fortnight ago.. It is hoped that he will fell into line with the Everton attack and improve it. It would be unfair to expect much from him in his opening games, especially as there is more than one circumstance to unnerve him. Everton stay overnight at Newcastle and it should like to witness the effort of both sides, for United are giving to spectators artistic football. Their finished methods are entertaining and it is questionable if they do not outshine every other club in the matter of polished play. Their smooth passes are accurately placed and with trifle vigour in front of the sticks they would make more victims.

McQUILLON
Jarrow Express - Friday 19 January 1906
McQuillon, Jarrow’s clever left back, has gone to Everton on a month’s trial.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 19 January 1906
Everton are due at Newcastle to-morrow to encounter the United, and the Blues are likely to have a rare struggle to avoid defeat. The directors are making several changes in the eleven, the whole forward line, with the exception of Sharp, being composed of reserve men. Bolton, the new man from Newcastle, will have an opportunity of showing what he can do against his old club, for he has been chosen to partner Sharp, whilst Dilly, McLoughlin, and Grundy will fill the other positions.
Everton v Newcastle United
At Newcastle; 2.45
Everton; Scott; Hill and Balmer; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott; Sharp, Bolton, Dilly, McLoughlin, and Grundy
Everton Reserve v Rossendale United
At Goodison-park; 2.45.
Everton.- Collins; Wildman and McQuillan; Black, Chadwick, and Donaldson; Birnie, Rankin, Bowser, Cook, and Butler.

EVERTON V NEWCASTLE UNITED
January 20, 1906. The Liverpool Football Echo
League Division 1
Appleyard Scores in Two Minutes
Rutherford Notches a Second
In view of the stiffness of their engagement with Newcastle the Everton team spent the work in strict training at Blackpool, but though the balmy air of that watering-place did many of them good, there was a woeful list of injured players on the list and the team had to be completely rearranged. The journey North was made yesterday, Newcastle being reached in the afternoon and head quarters being fixed at the County Hotel. This morning the men quietly strolled about the city, but there was not much inducement to stay out-of-door for the weather was very raw, and at noon a heavy drizzle set in. Nevertheless a large crowd turned out to see what was anticipated as a keen struggle and at the start the finely appointed enclosure at St. James's Park was comfortably filled. As published in our edition yesterday Everton were unfortunately without the service of Hardman, Settle, Young and Booth, and they turned out as follows;- Everton; Scott, goal; Hill and W. Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Bolton, Dilly, McLaughlin, and Grundy, forwards. Newcastle United; Lawrence, goal; McCombie and Carr, backs; Aitkens, Vietch, and McWilliams, half-backs; Rutherford, Howie, and Appleyard, Orr, and Gosbell, forwards. The visitors won the toss, and Newcastle started with the breeze against them. They at once ran down on the right and Billy Balmer was in the trouble only clearing as the expense of a corner. The United however returned immediately and this time Hill granted a corner. This was finely placed, and from the bally in front of Scott Appleyard netted the ball amid great cheering. This success came after the game had only been in progress two minutes and it naturally gave the home side great confidence. Nevertheless the Evertonians made play on the right but Carr had little difficulty in clearing and for a time play settled down in midfield. The home left wing pair got down on the left but Makepeace checked well and then at promising movements ended in Veitch shooting wide of the mark. The pace was now noteworthy so fast as the commenment but the heavy turf was all against fastness and for quite a long period nothing of moment happened. Smart forward work by Gosnell and Orr was only partially stopped by Makepeace, but Taylor nipped in saving by kicking into touch. United got going away again in workmanlike fashion. Gosnell passed right across to the opposite wing and Rutherford leaving Balmer standing still scored with a terrific fast shot after seventeen minutes play. This second reverse put the visitors on their mettle and they tried to force matter on the right wing bit there was an almost entire absence of combination and first Carr and then McGombe had comparatively little difficulty in clearing their lines. It was not long before United were again on the move but Hill sent them back smartly and Grundy got away on his own account but only to be pulled up by Veitch. Keeping up the pressure with some persistence the visitors seriously harassed the home defence and after Abbott had tried a hard drive that was intercepted Taylor shot outside. The visitors were now fully holding their own, and after one or two attempts to piece the United defence Sharp put in a glorious shot which unfortunately struck the upright and bounded into play again.
Dilly Scores Twice
Another Everton Defeat There was no mistaking the fact that Everton were now asserting themselves to some purpose, and if there had only been a little more cohesion among the forwards they must undoubtedly have scored. Dilly however, was far too slow, and he allowed several fine opportunities to pass. Nevertheless the Evertonians kept pegging valiantly away. A brilliant run down by Sharp ended in his centring with splendid precision. Grundy rushed up and looked very like scoring but he headed the ball just over the bar. Following upon this the home side took up the running and Scott was twice called upon. The game was then stopped for a few moments owing to an injury to Rutherford but the player was soon all right again. Sharp was next conspicuous with another clever individual effort, but Carr beat him just in the nick of time. still the Visitors and from a long range Abbott tried another pot shot which went over. Shortly after this a foul against the Everton left half-back gave the home forwards a chance and Scott received a warm handful from Appleyard which he threw clear. Good work by Bolton and Sharp ended in the latter shooting for McCrombie kicked clear. Everton returned almost immediately and the leather was given to Dilly who had a magnificent opening when he shot high over the bar. Towards the interval Newcastle put on extra pressure and a magnificent shot was put in by Orr, which Scott cleared marvelously. The homesters however, still persisted and Orr shot again. Scott only just succeeded in knocking it down and Applyard rushing up could have scored easily, but in the excitement he put the leather into the net with his hand, and of course the point was disallowed. Rutherford and swung the ball across to Gosnall but Balmer ran to Hill's aid and cleared before the Newcastle man could shoot. The Evertonians during this period were practically penned in their own half, and shots were put in by the three inside men, but without success and the movement terminated in Howie shooting over the bar. Still the United kept as it and Applyard was offside when he put in a shot that brought Scott down.
Half-time; Newcastle United 2 goals Everton nil.
During the interval there was a further influx of spectators and there were considerably more than 20,000 present when play was resumed. From the centre the home left dashed down the wing at top speed and Gosnell put in a fast dropping shot, which Scott fisted clear. A minute later they swooped down on the right and Applyard gave to Rutherford who shot badly yards wide if the mark. It was at once evident that the home side meant increasing third lead if possible for they literally bombardment the Everton citadel, Orr putting in a swift low shot, which the Irish international dealt with in a masterly fashion. After a time, however, Everton halves gave their forwards possession but the latter could not get going, and the ball was soon back again in Everton territory. Howie terminating the siege by shooting just over the bar. Another advance on the home left ended in Gosnell being robbed by Hill, and the visitors made play on the left, where a free kick gave them further advantage. Taylor passed out to Grudy but the latter lost possession and for some minutes the battle raged in midfield. A breakaway by Rutherford looked extremely dangerous but Scott as usual just on the alert and saved splendidly. Abbott at length gave to his forwards but neither Grundy nor McLaughlin did anything with the opening. They soon resumed to the attack however and might have got through but for fouling McCombie. The visitors were bucking up to some purpose and Dilly put in a low shot, which brought Lawrence to his knees. A moment later Sharp was badly tripped when within close range. He took the free kick and placed the ball in the goalmouth but the home custodian threw clear. Still the visitors persisted in their attention and another fine run by Sharp met with success for Lawrence was only partially able to clear, and Dilly catching the return hanged the ball into the net. After this Everton played up with determination and Taylor only just missed scoring with a swift low shot. They were now showing fine football, and the home defence was given an anxious time when Lawrence just succeeded in saving a hot shot from Grimsby. The United however, got going and Howie getting through gave to Orr who beat Scott at close range the custodian being unable to stop the shot. Howie added a fourth and Dilly scored the second for Everton ten minutes from time. Final; Newcastle United 4, Everton 2

EVERTON V ROSSENDALE
January 20, 1906. The Liverpool Football Echo
Lancashire Combination –Div 1
At Goodison Park this afternoon. Everton gave a trial to Bowser at Central forward. Rossendale commenced operations and Everton were the first to show to advancing without however becoming really dangerous. A smart centre was nicely turned to account by Bowser, but the visiting customer recovered what appeared to be a fumbling save. United failed to make any real impression on the defence of Wildman and McQullen and then the home quintet moved off with accuate decision and both Birne and Rankin seen within an ace of opening the scoring. An abortive corner came. Chadwick put in a beautiful long drive which missed the mark by inches only. Midfield was the order for the next few minutes and then Birnie struck the upright with a fine centre. A free kick against the visitors provided an anxious moment for the visitors.

PERCY HILL
Southampton Observer and Hampshire News - Saturday 20 January 1906
We have seen enough of Everton to be always interested in what they do, but now that they have one of our own youngsters on their side, our interest is much increased. Percy Hill was a prophet without honour in his own country, but he is not only enough for Everton, but they fancy they have a great player in him. For the last week or two he has filled the bill for the Everton crowd, and on Saturday he was the finest player on the ground. Privately, one hears that the Everton executive would not part with him for all the fees that could he paid.

EVERTON V ROSSENDALE
January 20, 1906. The Liverpool Football Echo
Lancashire Combination –Div 1
At Goodison Park this afternoon. Everton gave a trial to Bowser at Central forward. Rossendale commenced operations and Everton were the first to show to advancing without however becoming really dangerous. A smart centre by Bulter was nearly turned to account by Bowser, but the visiting customer recovered what appeared to be a fumbling save. United failed to make any real impression on the defence of Wildman and McQullen and then the home quintet moved off with machinelike decision and both Birne and Rankin came within an ace of opening the scoring. An abortive corner, however, was the only result. Chadwick put in a beautiful long drive which missed the mark by inches only. Midfield was the order for the next few minutes and then Birnie struck the upright with a fine centre. A free kick against the visitors provided an anxious moment for the Rossendale defence. Bower failed to get at the leather when the merest touch was only necessary to score, and then Butler put in a praiseworthy effort, which Arrowsmith was lucky to save, as the ball rebounded from one of the United’s defenders into the hands of the custodians. The passing of the visitors’ vanguard was extremely faulty, and it was due to their failure in this department that they made little headway against the Everton defence. Birnie put in a shot from close range, which Arrowsmith was more than a trifle lucky to charge down. The Everton goal was now subjected to a severe bombardment, but Collins was not seriously troubled, and then the Blues got to work again, and Bowser very cleverly defeated the Rossendale custodian, the ball entering the corner of the net. A splendid piece of work by Seddon gave Ashworth an excellent opportunity of making the score level but the latter shot high over the line. Bowser at the other end stuck tenaciously to the ball until his final shot was charged down, whereas he shot earlier when he was less hampered he might have found the net. A single-handed effort on the part of Rankin enabled him to force a position in front of the visitors’ goal when he finished with a wretched attempt to score.
Half-time;- Everton 1 goal, Rossendale nil.

CLOSE FINISH AT GOODISON
Athletic News - Monday 22 January 1906
The Combination fixture between Everton Reserves and Rossendale did not provide a very entertaining display of football, for the forwards on both sides were very erratic, with the home team perhaps a shade the better in their finishing touches.  Only one goal was scored in the match.  Bowser, the new centre tried by Everton, registering this prior to the interval.  At full back Wildman bore off the honours, his returns being clean and reliable.  His partner was McQuillon, a new man.  For Rossendale, Arrowsmith kept a capital goal, and the defence was greatly in advance of the efforts of the members of the front rank. 

EVERTON'S TROUNCING ON TYNESIDE
Athletic News - Monday 22 January 1906
By Northumbrian.
Andy Aitken, the famous Scottish International and captain of the League champions, and M'lntyre took a joint benefit on Saturday, when Newcastle United gained a decisive victory over Everton at St. James’s Park by four goals two. Since Aitken came to Tyneside from Ayr eleven years ago he has, I venture to assert, been one of the chief master minds in improving the standard of play in the ranks Nococastrians.  This was the second occasion that Aitken had enjoyed a benefit, a privilege that he was entitled to in accordance with the rule of the Newcastle directors that all players with five years’ service under United colours shall be awarded some tangible token of their loyalty. E.  McIntyre is a worthy young Tynesider, who has specially distinguished  himself in Newcastle United's  "A” team, and proved a capital understudy either for the forward or half back line whenever a vacancy has occurred in the League eleven. Notwithstanding the depressing weather about 22,000 people passed through the turnstiles, so that the two beneficiaries will receive substantial recognition of their services. Since Newcastle United struck their flag to Everton in September, 1898, by three clear goals, the  teams have played fifteen games, and the thirty points at issue the Novocastrians could proudly claim no fewer than nineteen. As the league champions defeated the Goodison Park eleven in September last by 2—l, they have now appropriated the maximum points, a feat they have twice previously equaled against the Mersey eleven, namely, 1900-1, and 1902-3.
EVERTON OUTMATCHED.
In the absence of wind, Newcastle United suffered no handicap when Appleyard kick-off, but it was hardly anticipated that they would so easily outplay their opponents.  During the past week the Tynesiders had been recuperating at Redcar, and they were all remarkably smart on their toes.  In two minutes they reduced the opposing defence to mediocrity by their tremendous speed and polished footwork, and Colin Veitch initiated a pretty movement, which ended in the bury Appleyard rushing the ball past Scott.  There was really no comparison in the combination of the two teams.  Gosnell and Rutherford were striking figures in the brilliant aggressive movements of the Tynesiders, and this speedy pair were directly responsible for the second goal that was registered by the United.  Gosnell dashed up the wing and then swung the ball right across Rutherford, who tricked Abbott and Balmer in delightful fashion before volleying the ball into the net.  Veitch and Orr were each noteworthy for strong dribbling and shooting, but neither could elude the vigilance of Scott, whose clean decisive fielding and handling frequently elicited the plaudits of the crowd.  Everton unquestionably exhibited improved form during the second half, but they still were much inferior to the Tynesiders, both in their attack and defence.  Sixteen minutes after the interval Sharp sprang past Carr, and tricking McComble with equal facility, he swung in a pretty centre.  Lawrence handled the ball on to the wing, from whence Grundy crossed to Dilly, who scored the first point for Everton.  Subsequently the Tynesiders quite overwhelmed the Goodisonians by their masterly tactics, and when Scott dropped a weak shot from Applyeyard, Orr walked the ball into the net.  Howie next neatly accepted a centre from Rutherford, and added another point for United, whilst Dilly, with one of the best shots of the afternoon, netted the ball two minutes later. 
SCOTT’S MARVELLOUS GOALKEEPING
The United were eventually proclaimed winners by four goals to two, a result that does bare justice to the dazzling brilliancy of the football played by the League champions.  Their superior speed, artful dribbling, and unerring marksmanship enabled them to easily command their opponents and Scott alone saved his side from a humiliating defeat.  His goalkeeping was truly a revelation.  Rutherford, orr, and Gosnell mostly filled the eye for their lightning rushes and deadly footwork at close quarters.  Aitken played with all his old-time skill and generalship, and if Colin Veitch gives as successful a performance for the North today against the South as he did on Saturday his selection for England is assured.  His versatility was really astounding.  The soundness of United’s defence was admirably sustained by the sterling qualities of McWilliam, Carr, McCombie, and Lawrence.  The disorganization of the forward line was the cause of the collapse of Everton, though neither Balmer nor Hill could hold the fleet-footed opposing wing forwards.  Sharp was the most accomplished and progressive forward, and received useful support from Hugh Bolton, the ex-Tynesider, who made his debut for Everton.  Abbott, Taylor, and Makepeace deserve warm commendation for the gallant attempts they made in the severe uphill fight.  Newcastle United; Lawrence; McCrombie, Carr; Aitken, Veitch, McWilliams; Rutherford, Howie, Appleyard, Orr and Gosnell.  Everton; Scott; Hill, Balmer; Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, Bolton, Dilly, McLoughlin, and Grundy.  Referee;  A.G. Hines, Notts.

EVERTON DEFEAT AT NEWCASTLE
January 22, 1906. The Liverpool Echo
It was only the fitness of things that Everton should lose to Newcastle United, because they have won up north. Still the fact that Dilly got a couple of goals –his last seems to have from an extra good one –in a bright ray of sunshine. Not since Christmas Day have the Everton forwards netted twice, so there no noticeably improvement especially when one remembers the attacking line the directness had to rely on. The Newcastle and Everton teams play a very similar style of football and the meeting between the clubs always arouse an enormous amount of excitement. There has rarely been any great difference in the respective teams as far as the scores indicate as the victories achieved by either side have generally been close. Newcastle United and Everton have opposed each other in fifteen League games and Everton have not yet succeeded in defeating the Novocastrians at St James's Park. They have drawn there, however, on two occasions and some of the other games have been closely contested. Newcastle United visited Goodison road on September 16 last year and gained a clever victory by 2 goals to 1. Owing to an unusual arrangement of the League fixture this season. Saturday saw the last of Novocastrian at St James's Park. This in a long time ahead for eager football enthusiasts to wait to see their favourities play. Appleyard opened the scoring account, Rutherford carried it on with a second, Orr a third and Howrie a final and all the forwards would have increased the debit had not Scott been in brilliant form. He repelled many which looked impossible. There is no such word as “can't” when Scott is in grim. Even to a player of the years of service as Taylor some of his clearance are extraordinary. An colleague says of Everton's new inside right, Bolton, that though weak in the first half, he showed considerable improvement later on and there is no reason why he should not ultimately make a serviceable partner for Sharp. The other wing pair worked loyally and well but their affords were made to look rather feeble by the Newcastle defence and it was very rarely that they were allowed to combine. Dilly was scarcely a success although he credited his side with both the goals and it should be remembered that he was facing a very powerful organization under the most adverse conditions. The half backs all played excellently, Taylor doing a tremendous amount of donkey work while Abbott showed his predilection for long pot shots whenever occasion offered. Of the United team it is only necessary to say that they played classy football throughout, and there were times, when they preferred giving expositions of passing rather than going straight at goal and scoring.
Here's a letter from “Season Ticketholder.”
“If Bowser were but two stone heavier he would I feel sure be just the player to fill a much-felt want at Everton. I watched him closely on Saturday. During the first half he had much opportunity because the other four forwards played the “wing game so closely, that one would have thought they were not aware there was a centre on the field; but after the crowd had given them a few gentle reminders, Bowser got a little more attention. He scored the only goal very cleverly and showed once or twice that he could shoot, but I was most pleased with his neat accurate passing and for so young a player has great command over the ball. It is too much to hope that the Everton directors will persevere with him, but I venture to say that if they will play him regularly for a month or two he will prove a more than useful centre. I might say that Bowser just lacks which Kemp the Saltley player I was anxious Everton should try but he would not leave his club, was blessed with –height and weight. Bowser has a lot of good football in him, and it is only a question of time for him to come to the front.

NEWCASTLE UNITED 4 EVERTON 2
January 22, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
LEAGUE CHAMPIONS IN FINE FORM.
It was scarcely in the nature of a surprise that Everton left behind a couple of points at Newcastle. Indeed, they would have astonished the football world, if the result had been otherwise, for, singularly enough, Everton have never yet gained a victory over the League champions at St.Jame's Park. But in view of the disappointing exhibitions since the holiday season, their chance of success to say the least, word highly problematical, even if they had been in a position to muster full strength. As it was such noted players as Booth, Settle, and Hardman were enable to turn out, with the result that Sharp alone of the ordinary forward line was in evidence. This was enough to disturb any club's combination. The consequence was a reshuffling of the attacking force, and it is interesting to note that Bolton, Everton's recruit from Newcastle United, should have appeared in the first League match against his old club for whom, by the way, he was only called upon once in a first team game. Unfortunately he was unable to being success to his new club, for even after a fortnight away at breeze Blackpool Everton had to bend their knee to the League champions by the margin of 4 goals to 2.

RUN OF THE PLAY.
The match was set apart for the benefit of two respected Newcastle players, Aitkens and McIntyre, and, despite drizzling rain, it was very satisfactory for the sake of the crowd of 20,000 strong who witnessed the game. The champions started off against the breeze in a manner suggestive of their determination to make no mistake. In a couple of minutes they had forced a corner and from a bully in the goalmouth Appleyard found the net. This was just the touch of confidence which the champions required and thoughout the rest of the proceedings they never appeared to be in any danger of losing. They settled down into their best form, and those who have followed the fortune of Newcastle United know what that means. Another quarter of an hour had elapsed when from a grand cross by Gosnell, Rutherford left Balmer standing, and scored a second goal with a brilliant shot. After this Everton showed to better advantage largely owing to their opponents easing off, but there was an absence of methods in the movements. On one occasion Sharp had distinctly hard lines with a shot, which banged against the upright and rebounding into play. Still at the interval Newcastle enjoyed the comfortable lead of 2 goals to nil. The opening stages of the second half were more favourable to the visiting side, and after some plucky efforts Sharp was instrumental in causing Lawrence to only partially clear, with the result that Dilly placed the ball in the net. This forced the United to exert themselves once again, Orr beating Scott at short range. A fourth came from the toe of Howie, but although Dilly added a scored for Everton they could never get on anything approaching level terms.

CRITICISM OF THE PLAYERS.
There was no question about the superiority of the winners. Their football for the most part was of the dazzling order, and if they could have resisted the temptation to indulge in the process of showing up their opponents, their victory might have been more pronounced. There was not a weak spot in the side. This could not be said of Everton. With the exception of Sharp, the forwards play was of a mediocre description. Even a brilliant winger like Sharp must have support if his efforts are to be successful. Bolton's best work was done in the second half, but Dilly, although securing a couple of goals, was disappointing in the centre, while the left wing was outclassed. The halves were the best part of the team. At the same time, Hill caught the eye. He has come on wonderfully since his incursion in the League team, and gives every promise of being a really class back. W.Balmer was somewhat rash in his tackling, but Scott, although beaten four times distinguished himself by some grand saves.
Teams. Newcastle United: - Lawrence goal, McCombie and Carr, backs Aitkens (Captain), Veitch, and McWilliams, half-backs, Rutherford, Howie, Appleyard, Orr, and Gosnell, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goals, Hill, and W.Balmer, backs, Makepeace, Taylor (Captain), and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, Bolton, Dilly, McLaughlin, and Grundy, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 ROSSENDALE UNITED 0
January 22, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One.
Everton on Saturday completed the season's fixtures with the Rossendale United team. The first game had resulted in favour of the East Lancashire side by a goal to nil, but this score was exactly reversed at the second meeting. Everton were value for a much bigger victory, for nearly all through they had the measure of the visiting team. They could do anything but score, however. The forwards spoil good work in midfield by poor finishing efforts, and had they done better near goal they would have won by a comfortable margin. Most interest centred in the debut of Bowser, a centre forward Jarrow. He showed much promise, feeding his wings well at times and never failing to shoot when opportunity presented. Everton also had a new full back on view, McQuilliam, who hails from the South of England. He started somewhat sneakily, but improved as the game went on, and proved a good tackler at close quarters. The Everton defence was not however seriously tested, and Collins had an easy time. The home half-backs did well, while Bowser, Birnie and Cook were the best of the forwards. The visitors defenders got through their work with credit, while Stott at centre half created a very favourable impression . Everton: - Collins, goal, Wildman, and McQuillian, backs, Black, Chadwick, and Donaldson half-backs Birnie, Rankin, Bowser, Cook, and Butler, forwards .

NEWCASTLE v.  EVERTON
Newcastle Daily Chronicle - Monday 22 January 1906
EASY VICTORY FOR UNITED
Every week the League becomes more interesting. Liverpool and Manchester City strengthened their positions at the top of the table on Saturday, and as Aston Villa went down on their own ground, Newcastle United took fourth place. There should be a great struggle for first place, and the competition to escape the Second Division should be just as keen. Sunderland, Woolwich Arsenal, Middlesbrough and Wolverhampton are all in low water at present, and Bury and Notts Forest are not much better off so that the probable result here is just as uncertain as it is at the top of the table. Newcastle had a very easy task at St. James’s Park, Newcastle against Everton, who, owing to injuries, had several of their best men absent. The home men appear to have benefitted from their stay at Redcar. They turned out very fit, and save for a little looseness at times at back- notably when Everton scored- and inability in many instances to turn to account openings, which, being well worked for, deserved success, played well enough to warrant the assumption that their chances for premier honours are just as good as those of any club in the competition. Their next opponents are Derby County at Derby next Saturday, and their performance ought to throw some light upon their English Cup prospects, for they meet the same team the following Saturday in the second round. When Newcastle and Everton met earlier this season at Everton, United triumphed over a better side than that which represented the Mersey men on Saturday, so that, though form does not by any means work out correctly, Newcastle’s easy win occasioned no surprise. On the Everton side there appeared Bolton, who just recently was transferred from Newcastle. He played fairly well, without being conspicuous and with experience he may do good service for his new masters. Unquestionably the best man on the Everton side was Scott, the goalkeeper. Again a man of less ability Newcastle would have run up a big score. Of the forwards Sharp and Dilly were the best. Generally, however, there was a lack of cohesion in the movements of the front rank. The proceeds of the match were aside for the benefit of two servants of the Newcastle club, Aitken and McIntyre. By reason of Gardner being injured, the Newcastle captain was given another game- his first appearance after a long illness being against Sunderland three weeks ago-and no doubt the other beneficiarie would have been played out of compliment had he been equal to the occasion, but being ill, he was not. Aitken played well, indeed, all the halves and forwards did so, the most prominent being Gosnell, Rutherford and Veitch. The backs had not a great deal of work to get through, but they were twice taken by surprises. McCombie was the better man.
Newcastle opened in great style, and all through the first half they stood out as a greatly superior team to Everton. They obtained a goal before the game was three minutes old, the outcome of a smart attack. Appleyard was the scorer, and the chance was given him when Veitch shot and the ball struck one of the opposing defenders. This promising start was followed by more clever work by the Newcastle vanguard, who fairly outplayed the Everton man. The pressure was kept up for fully a quarter of an hour, Rutherford was one of the principal movers in the attacks, but several times he was baulked for an opening. Then the play came from the other wing, and Gosnell sent nicely across for Rutherford to dash in and put on the second goal- a real good one. Everton proved somewhat after this, but they were sadly lacking in combination, and Lawrence was not seriously troubled. Dilly came the nearest to scoring, but he shot before he could get fairly at the ball. The game was one-sided, but interest received somewhat when Everton tackled the Newcastle men more resolutely, and when Grundy was given a chance to score as Lawrence left his goal to repel an attack. The Everton outside left had a rare chance, but he headed over the bar instead of into the net. As the game wore on Everton began to get a better share of it. Sharp was their best worker, and on one occasions McCombie just managed to get the ball away from a centre by him. Still, though Everton’s improvement was pronounced, they were no match for Newcastle. Scott had previously saved a shot from Veitch, and further distinguished himself by stopping one from Orr, who received from the Newcastle half just mentioned. A curious incident arose before the close of the first half, for when Orr placed, Appleyard, who could not get his foot at the call, could not, apparently, resist the temptation of putting it into the net with his arm. The referee did not fail to see the movement, and, of course, it was no goal. Everton were again sorely tried on resuming, and it was only the fine play of Scott that kept the score down. He saved from Orr, and then kept out a long drive by Veitch, who worked splendidly before he shot. Then Rutherford came through his men and gave Orr a chance, but he shot wide. Newcastle kept up the pressure, and the next incident of note was another fine save by Scott. Appleyard had quashed away and given to Rutherford, and the latter had returned to the centre, when Scott dashed out, and though charged by the Newcastle centre he got the ball away. For a change Lawrence had to save from Dilly, and showing up better the Everton men came again and Dilly scored. Then a change came over the game, and for a time Everton looked like drawing level, for Taylor just missed a chance, and McCombie only saved in time from Grundy. For a moment or two the game looked none too safe for Newcastle; but they rallied again, and from a pass by Howie Appleyard and Orr were left in possession. The former sent the ball towards Scott, and the goalkeeper looked like clearing, but he dropped the ball into the net. Newcastle were in the ascendancy again, and Everton were severely pressed. Scott again came out with flying colours when Veitch shot, and then Newcastle missed many chances. At last Newcastle got a fourth, the ball travelling from player to player, when Rutherford centred, Howie at last putting into the net. Everton were well beaten, but another rush by them took Newcastle by surprise again, and Dilly scored a good goal. Before the close Scott was more than once in evidence.
Final;- Newcastle United 4 goals, Everton 2 goals,
Newcastle United.- Lawrence, goal; McCombie and Carr, backs; Aitken, Veitch, and McWilliam, half-backs; Rutherford, Howie, Appleyard, Orr and Gosnell, forwards.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Hill and Balmer, backs; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), Abbott, half-backs; Sharp, Bolton, Dilly, McLaughlan, and Grundy, forwards.

SCRAPS OF SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 22 January 1906
It is not very gratifying to local enthusiasts, however, to find that of our teams, Everton, was the only Lancashire club to be defeated. The Blues have recently felt the want of some class forwards, but on Saturday the club was doubly unfortunate, as, owing to injuries and the indisposition of some of the regular players, a reserve forward line, with the exception of Sharp, had to be pitted against the strong Newcastle team. Under these circumstances the club could hardly be expected to return from the North with even one point, and as events turned out the Goodison-park brigade were soundly beaten. If it had not been for the fine defence put up by the rear division the score in Newcastle’s favour must have been much more decisive, as the home forwards were in great fettle. Sharp was again the outstanding figure of the Everton front line, but his grand efforts were rendered useless owing to the weakness of the other four; indeed, the winger’s brilliance only served to accentuate the mediocrity of Dilly, Bolton, McLaughlin, and Grundy. Bolton’s play, of course, cannot be judged on Saturday’s outing, as it must be remembered that he was playing for the first time with his new club, and had not had any previous experience of his colleagues style of play. When he appears at Goodison-park in a League match an opportunity will be proved a “find” for Everton.

EVERTON INSTRUCTIONS
January 23, 1906. The Liverpool Echo
An early reminder is here given to all who are in any way concerned about football that two devoted servants of the Everton club in Tom Booth and John D. Taylor, captain and sub-captain respectably, receive the receipts of Saturday's home match as the benefit of good years of service. Tickets may be obtained from F. Sugg's Lord-Street, J. Sharp's Whitechapel or J. Elliott trainer of the Everton club. “All pay” in the dictum for Saturday. It should be pointed out that shareholders can gain admission to the stand by production of their tickets and payment of a sailing. If you cannot get to the match send along six-pence to Bee for the Booth-Taylor Testimonial Fund.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 24 January 1906
Everton have chosen the following for Saturday; Scott; Hill and W. Balmer, backs; Black, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman.
Booth is unwell. Abbott has sprained his groin while training, and Dilly is dropped.

FOOTBALL
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 24 January 1906
Everton v Aston Villa
At Goodison park; 3. Booth and Taylor’s benefit
Everton.- Scott; Hill and W. Balmer; Black, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and H.P. Hardman.
Everton Res v Southport Central
At Southport. Everton Res;
Collins; Wildman and McQuillan; Chadwick, Wright, and Donaldson; Rankin, McLoughlin, Dilly, Cooke, and Grundy.

HISTORY OF EVERTON CAPTAIN AND DEPUTY CAPTAIN
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 25 January 1906
Three deserved benefits
Bee’s Notes
The fanaticwould have us believe that footballers are a class of men, of good physique, who have no other aim in life than to chase a leather for an hour and a half each week. As is generally the case with the excessive abuser of a sport the man who argues thus has rarely, if ever, seen a match, and knows nothing of a footballer’s history. I propose to briefly point out here how the two beneficiaries of Saturday at Everton have merited recognition. It is widely known that Tom Booth and John D. Taylor are the men who will receive their due from the Everton club and supporters and I should like to congratulate the officials on their treatment of tried servants. They last season allowed over £300 each to Sharp, Abbott, Settle, and Kitchen, and now they are foregoing the lucrative “gate” that the holders of the “English” Cup must draw on Saturday.
Tom Booth is unfortunately not able to participate in his benefit game. A sore throat, and, more especially, doctor’s orders, will keep him away, from the contest he would have strong desire to play in. he had one blot on his career, and the verdict of the F.A magistrates was a distinct compliment to him, for it added as a rider to sentence that “his previous excellent conduct was taken into consideration.” Even a worm will turn, and the best of us lose our tempers when provocation is persistently great. Booth has by his many points made himself respected by all who have seen him play, and as a half back he has been one of the most consistent one has seen. When a Lancashire lad sets his mind on making a proficient footballer he more often than not forces his way to the front rank. So it was with Booth, born at Manchester in 1875. At a tender age he joined a local club, and after gaining two minor charity cup medals he was signed on by Blackburn Rovers, for whom he played in all the half back positions. Everton did a good stroke of business when in 1899 they obtained his transfer and in 1900 he was favoured with an international cap against Scotland. He has also played in inter-League matches, and when a Rover represented his country against Wales.
His companion, Jock” Taylor, is so well known that it is hardly necessary to say anything about him. He is variously termed “the old warhorse,” “veteran” “master-piece,” and so on, and objects to the second because he says is not old. Little else does he say about football; he is a worker, not a talker. I firmly believe that Taylor will be figuring in first-class football for many years, and will be a standing argument against those who say the footballer’s life is a shot one. If a player takes care of his health and takes moderation as a rule he will stand the strain of football for a lengthy period. Take Taylor’s history, and recollect that he is always on the move during the whole of the progress of the game, and could never be charged with laxity. This versatile football he has appeared in every position on the field save as goalkeeper-has been playing football since he was fifteen years old. He has passed his thirtieth birthday, and still ranks as a wonderful half-back. Youth will be served- but not while Taylor had a sprint in him. To Sharps belongs every credit for brilliant wing play; yet how much of this was at one time due to the energy of Taylor his partner”  He has never yet been known to give up, however great the odds have been against him, Everton signed him up from the Paisley St. Mirren forces in 1895, and his appearances in the blue jersey have been as consistent as his play.

MERSEY TUG DISASTER
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 25 January 1906
In response to many suggestions emanating from Lancashire and Cheshire football enthusiasts, “Bee” is organising a collection at the Everton Football Ground on Saturday, on behalf of the widows and orphans of the men who lost their lives while following their employment on a Mersey tug, last week. The football officials generously acceded to the request and are co-operating in the work, with the hope of making a good sum in so deserving a local case.
Taking it for granted that 20,000 persons assemble to see the Everton-Villa match, and each gives a penny, a sun of nearly £300 would accrue.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 25 January 1906
In connection with the Everton-Aston Villa match on Saturday “all pay.” Ordinary season ticket holders are asked to pay for admission  on this occasion, whilst shareholders, who also possess season tickets will be admitted to their usual seats on payment of one shilling. Considering that Booth and Taylor are such popular and faithful servants of the old club, “the seasons” will no doubt” pay up and look pleasant.”
The benefit match at Goodison-park on Saturday should draw a large crowd, for, apart from the fact that Taylor and Booth share the proceeds, Aston Villa, who are the visitors, always attract numerous people who do not regularly follow the game, and these will help to swell the numbers considerably. The famous Villa eleven and the equally famous, if not at present so successful, Everton team should provide a classy game. Everton will have a different eleven to that played last Saturday, Young, Settle, and Hardman reappearing in the forward line.

STERLING GAME ANTICIPATED AT GOODISON
Liverpool Echo - Friday 26 January 1906
Bee
The Liverpool public has regularly and loyally responded to appeals for deserving causes, and surely no more needful case could be imagined than that of the widow and orphane-all residing within easy distance of the Everton football ground- who sustained so severe a blow last week through the disaster to a tug working in the Mersey. Therefore I look with every confidence to a successful outpouring of charity from the vast crowd which will congregate at Goodison Park tomorrow, when collectors will be happy to receive the coins from those present. Collectors will be stationed at various entrances and on the touch-line with boxes, and if 20,000 spectators contribute one penny each to the noble cause of aiding the unfortunate mothers and wives and sons and daughters of the men who lost their lives, a sum of nearly £100 will accrue. The Everton F.C directors readily gave me sanction to collect, and along with Mr., William Cuff have heartily co-operated ion the work, I care not how small their contribution; I plead with those who will visit the match to assist.
Everton are home to the side that after two efforts managed to end their Cup efforts last season, and the same pair will ever be remembered as giving the football public a glorious exhibition of real football in the final of the national trophy of 1896-7. Everton have a stiff ninety minutes before them to-morrow, and this even though their opponents are weakly represented. The visitors are particularly handicapped at back, where Spencer, Evans, Corbett, Brown, and Miles have been placed hors de combat. The last-named has suffered through blood-poisoning, and is now rapidly recovering after a holiday in North Wales. He is a fine young back, and I have watched his career since he was nineteen years old, and expect high honour will come his way ere many seasons have passed. Spencer is unwell, Evans has a broken leg, Corbett a sprain, and Brown, who comes from Bolton, has made all too few appearances for the Clareteers. Thus five first-class backs are unfit for service, and Villa are assuring the country for substitutes.
Talking of injured players, Robert Balmer is out and about again, and will shortly resume training. He looks fairly well, and all Evertonians will welcome his return to the field of strife. The home side will also be minus some of their best men, Booth, Abbott and Crelley are unable to play, and Black has another chance of showing his prowess in his favourite position. He can play right-half, but prefers left-half. Then Settle and Hardman will be among the attackers, and this news will be a source of gratification to the followers of the club. More of importance and interest is the knowledge that Hugh Bolton, the Newcastle importation will make his first appearance on the ground alongside Jack Sharp. He is a dapper little fellow, resembling his partner on the wing, save that he has a jet black moustache, is a trifle shorter and is ticker set. I am informed by a Northerner who known him that Bolton is very tricky, and will make Sharp an admirable partner when he has “fallen” to the ways of and has the measure of Sharp’s power.
When corners are allotted to the Everton men, how will they fare? One cannot help noticing that the blue-jerseyed forward line is a diminutive one, Young being the tallest of the quintet. “An old Supporter of the Club” does not agree with the directors in the choice of centre-forward, and I fear there are many others. When will the same line operate in two successive weeks? And now  wish-that Booth and Taylor may have fine weather and a bumper benefit.

CAPITAL OF TOFFEE-LAND
Lincolnshire Chronicle - Friday 26 January 1906
Everton the capital of toffee-land, is really part and parcel of Liverpool, but once upon a time it was a town by itself. Here dwelt Molly Bushell about 1759, the year in which the poet Burns was born. It is said that a Liverpool doctor, out of kindness told her how to make a very delicious kind of toffee. Molly moreover, kept her secret so carefully that people who wanted that sort of toffee had to get it from Everton. Thus it came about that, in course of time, Everton toffee had a world wide circulation.

EVERTON  v  ASTON VILLA
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 27 January 1906
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
BOOTH AND TAYLOR’S BENEFIT
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
SETTLE SCORES FOR EVERTON
MATTHEWS EQUALISES
The skipper and a dozen of the Blues were lucky to have such an attractive fixture for their benefit as the Aston Villa visit. No club probably is more popular here than the Villans. The weather too was delightful, and all things appeared to favour a big gate and a merry game. One thing alone was necessary to perfect a gala day, and that the victory of the Blues, though reminiscences of that visit to Brum in September last could hardly make the most rabid partisan more than hopeful. There were about 20,000 spectators present when the following team appeared;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Hill and Balmer, backs; Black, Taylor (captain), and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, Taylor (Bolton it should be) , Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. (Mistake by Echo having Taylor twice).
Aston Villa.- Cooch, goal; Spencer and Harris, backs; Hadley, Pearson, and Wilson, half-backs; Garrett, Matthews, Hampton, Bache, and Hall, forwards.
Referee.- Mr. Whittaker.
The toss went in favour of Everton, and Hampton kicked off towards the Stanley Park end. The first move of any note came from the Everton left winers, who, however, failed to make any impression on the Villa defence. A mistake by Black enabled the visitors to go right to the front, where Hampton was so flustered by Hill that he shot over the bar. The game had commenced very fast, and continued at a great pace, some bright moves by the Everton forwards being checked by Spencer and Harris. Garratt set his side going by means of a back-heel touch, but when the inside men had worked up to the front, Hill bored his way in, and sent them to the right about. The struggle was maintained in the home territory until Black led the blues out of their own territory and set his right wing going. Bolton made good headway, and then gave Sandy Young a chance, which the home centre made good use of until the Villa backs advanced; then he passed smartly to Settle, and the little man’s antics were fluntered Conch. At any rate, when Settle shot the Villa custodian made a lumbering effort and did not seem to judge the flight of the ball at all accurately, and it was safely netted six minutes after the start, the success spurred the Blues on to further effort, and stiff pressure came from the right wing, Cooch responding to a beauty from Bolton, who shot with great force. The home forwards continued to buss round Cooch, who had a busy and anxious time. One very fine shot came from Sharp at a distance, and the Villa warden only just managed to steady himself and deal with it. Everton’s attack was full of vim, and kept the Villa defence particularly busy. A dash by Hampton and a shot from Matthews were both spoiled by Hill, and, after Garrett had been fiddling about in the right hand corner, Settle nipped in and passed away to Bolton, who along with Young, made a lot of ground, but at last fell to the prowess of Harris. Then the Villans made a sharp return at the end of which Garrett passed to Matthews who tipped the ball into the corner of the net, scoring a beautiful equaliser -a splendid effort. A good bit of work by Taylor and Makepeaceset Young and Settle going, but the centre forward was beaten when the front of goal was reached. After another abortive attack by the Evertonians, they had a free-kick, Taylor finishing by shooting behind. After Balmer had cleverly avoided a corner kick the Blues paid their compliments to their visitors but it did and lead to anything tangible. But soon after Black, Bolton, and Settle put in some pretty work, and Settle almost did the trick. Soon the Villans; right was busy and after some pressure Taylor made a bad mistake which Hill retrieved. The Villans continued to be persistent and dangerous, Bache, Hampton, and Matthews completely outmanoeuvring the home defence, luckily for Everton Hall’s final effort at close quarters put the leather over the bar. Then the Blues took heart of grace, Sharp presenting Cooch with a handful. The Villans did not emerge from the pressure until Bolton, Settle and Hardman had all made capital shots, which, however, brought little result. At the other end Scott saved from Garrett, and then grand passing was shown by Settle, Bolton and Young, the latter forcing a corner, but the Villa goal escaped capture. Half-time came soon afterwards.
Half-time score.- Everton 1 goal, Aston Villa 1 goal.
GAME OPENS PRETTILY
EVERTON FORWARDS INFORM
FIRST BLOOD FOR THE BLUES
VILLA FIGHT GAMELY
EVERTON’S RIGHT PERFORM BRILLIANTLY
TAYLOR DISTINGUISHES HIMSELF
Restarting exchanges in mid-field, a throw-in ended again in Young being caught off-side. The Villa pressed on the right until the ball was carried over, and a free kick gave the “Blues” an opportunity which led up to a corner kick, Taylor vainly endeavouring to head through. Harris neutralised a free kick. Hill and Taylor opened up a position for Young, who was once more offside. Everton’s attack developed and Hardmen, Settle, and Sharp were prominent, but both failed to take a pass from the cricketer to account. Still the “Blues” maintained a footing in Birmingham territory, Hardman doing good work. A throw-in by the Villians led to Balmer being called upon, and almost immediately after the home left indulged, in an ominous rush. A long kick following a throw-in by the Villa was well returned by Balmer, but then Garrett commenced a dashing run down the wing, only to be beaten all to pieces by Makepeace. Hardman darted away, but was shouldered off the ball, and then magnificent work by Settle gave Young a chance, which he failed to accept. Then Everton gained a corner following a free kick, and subsequently more fine work by Settle ended in Taylor taking the lead with a smart shot. Shortly afterwards Hardman swung the ball in, and Young popped it over the bar. About this time Hardman retired hurt, and Everton had only ten men. Then once more the Everton forwards swooped down to the front of the Villa goal, where rapid passing and re-passing quite bewildered the custodian, Sharp at last scoring with a very easy touch. Shortly after the third goal had been scored Hardman reappeared and was loudly cheered. After Hill had failed to hold the ball in check, a free kick neutralised the Villians advantage, but Harris made great efforts to force an opening for his forwards, but they did not supplement his endeavours. Hardman worked strenuously on his wing, but Howard Spencer kept a stern eye on the young amateur. Black did some very effective work on Sharp’s behalf, but Harrison and Wilkes looked very carefully after the wielder of the willow. A fine kick by Spencer led to a stubborn advance by the Brums, but the home defence had scarcely realised the danger, for Hampton, finding himself uncovered, lost no time in indulging in a trial shot, and safely netted the leather. It looked now as if the Villa might equalise with a bit of luck, but the Blues were not in the mind to acquiesce, and so Taylor invited Hardman to advance, but the amateur, seeing Spencer in waiting, parted sharply to Settle, the little man failing to trap the speeding leather. Bolton took the opportunity, however, and put Sharp in possession in the nick of time, the latter beating Cooch with a wonderfully clever shot, which appeared to make the final issue pretty certain. Scott cleared a very warm shot from Hall, and after fine play by Bolton Young sent in a feeble shot to Cooch, who saved well. During the closing stages Young missed an almost certain chance, and just afterwards the Aston Villa goalkeeper saved a grand shot from the dame player.
Final result Everton 4 goals, Aston Villa 2 goals.
Last season-Everton 3, Aston Villa 2

SOUTHPORT CENTRAL v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 27 January 1906
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION -DIV 1
At Southport, in pleasant football weather, Everton had a fair team up four or five have been drafted into the first eleven to take the place of the injured players. Everton kicked off against a strong wind. The home forwards immediately ran down, and Waddington struck the crossbar. Another shot went wide. Sinclair sent in a swift shot into Collin’s hands. A few minutes later the pressure was relieved. Then Rankin was ruled offside, and Central again attacked, Collins saving with difficulty, and conceding a corner which was cleared. Everton made several rushes but could not get within shooting distance. Rimmer and Spink, the full backs, played up well. At the Everton end McGuigan shot just outside. Directly afterwards McGuigan was fouled by Donaldson. Central gained a corner which Waddington put behind. Spink and Viner came into collision when repelling an attack from the Everton left. Then Donaldson shot wide, and still another shot went wide. Chorlton did some tricky play on the home left. The ball was taken down the wing by Waddington and passed across and Central shot outside. Spink put in a good shot, which Collins succeeded in hitting over the bar. Quarter-time; No score.
McQuire dodged two or three players, and found his way into the net with a low shot. Immediately afterwards Waddington received a pass from the right and shot through again. A foul against Rimmer looked rather dangerous but Wright sent the ball harmlessly over the bar. Half-time;- Southport Central 2 Everton 0
On changing ends the visiting forwards ran down, and McLoughlin passed inti Viner’s hands. The same player eventually found an opening, but Viner was injured in the struggle. On appeal for offside the point was disallowed. Viner left the field, and Rimmer was put to defend the goal. Final; Southport Central 2, Everton Res 1.

VILLA v  EVERTON
Sports Argus - Saturday 27 January 1906
PATCHED UP TEAM BEATEN BY HOME SIDE
AWAY FORM UNCHANEGD
By “Argus Junior.”
Everton and Aston Villa are names which at once conjure up in the minds of football enthusiasts memories of the best type of football. No clubs in the country have developed the artistry of the game with greater effect than these two famous organisations, and the lover of the pastime can look forward to a dazzling display of brilliance when they come into conflict. Thus great interest was taken in the meeting of the teams at Goodison Park this afternoon. Villa had the more impressive record. Five times have the “Claret and Blues” rejoiced in the proud distinction of being hailed as champions; the have been second on two occasions, and third on one. Everton have been at the summit once, runners-up four times, and third on three occasion. Since the League was formed Villa have amassed 649 points and Everton 617 points.
The weather was ideal, and the attendance numbered 20,000. Teams;-
Everton.- Scott; Hill, Balmer; Black, Taylor (captain), Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, Hardman.
Aston Villa.- Cooch; Spencer, Harris; Hadley, Pearson, Wilkes; Garrett, Matthews, Hampton, Bache, Hall.
The fact that neither side was representative did not detract from the interest of the game, and the crowd extended a hearty welcome to the contestants. Everton won the toss, but little advantage accrued, as the weather was calm. Midfield play ensued for a few seconds, but Everton first took up the attack, but the effort was fruitless, the ball going into touch. The Villa retaliated strongly, and Hampton was charged over while in the act of shooting, his shot sailing high over. Clever passages between Sharp and Bolton (the Newcastle recruit) led to a rousing attack on the Villa goal but Spencer came to the rescue and enabled the Villa to threaten their opponents position mainly from the left wing. Hall and Bache played cleverly, and the Villa maintained a spirited onslaught, the forwards showing enterprise. Breaking away, however, Everton, seven minutes from the start, got their heads in front, Settle scoring with a fine, hard, low shot. On the play the home men were lucky in gaining the lead.
The Villa responded gamely, but were quickly sent about their business, and Sharp and Bolton were again to the fore and instituted a rousing attack on Cooch’s position. For five minutes the Villa defenders were seriously battered, and Cooch effected some sensational clearances from Sharp, Settle, and Bolton, who were moving nimbly and determinedly. Garrett darted away to the other end, centring superbly. Hampton was hardly up in time, and the ball was put behind by one of the home backs. The corner availed nothing, but the Villa warmed to their work and came near scoring.
At one time the game threatened to become lopsided, but the Villa improved greatly, and the forwards made things very uncomfortable for the home defence, who were rather shaky under pressure. About twenty minutes from the start the scores were equalised, Matthews converting a centre by Garratt. It was a neat and admirable piece of work, and served to put now life into the Villa. They whipped the ball about very ably, using meritorious strategy. Everton renewed their energy, but the Villa defence developed soundness and discretion, and Cooch was both agile and reliable. A foul and a corner aided Everton, but the Villa defence worked sternly.
Everton’s attacks were not more numerous than those of the Villa, but they pressed them home more forcibly. Hall skimmed the cross-bar with a fine shot, after which Everton pressed zealously. Again and again scoring was imminent, but the Villa defenders were surprisingly effective.
Half-time;- Everton 1 Aston Villa 1
The Villa were first to show fight in the second portion, but they were sent about their business, and Everton took up the cudgels, forcing a fruitless corner and otherwise threatening Cooch. Young shot badly when in a good position, and for a period the game quietened down, but Settle aroused the crowd with an exceedingly smart dribble which ought to have been turned to account. Two corners fell to Everton, and both led to exhilarating melees in the Villa goal, and from the second Taylor gave the home men the lead. The Villa again fought a strenuous uphill fight, but Everton nearly augmented their total through Young, who shot erratically. A few minutes from the previous success Everton added to their score, Sharp turning a centre from Hardman into the net. Though in an almost irretrievable position, the Villa behaved capitally against a team flushed with the prospect of victory. Everton were short-handed for a time, Hardman being off the field. During this time the Villa had the better of matters, but Everton’s defence was equal to all demands until Hampton penetrated it with a splendid long range shot.
Everton increased their total in the next minute, a fine but questionable run and centre by Hardman being splendidly utilised by Sharp, who beat Cooch with a terrific ground shot.  In the closing stages Everton’s aim was to improve their goal average, and, alive to their chances, Sharp and his new comrade wee more prominent, and Harris and Hadley had trying duties to curb their enthusiasm. Hardman, too, was pretty fleet of foot, and introduced many telling centres, which led to smart clearances by Cooch. Many corners were forced by Everton, but the Villa presented a solid defence, and escaped further disasters. Result- Everton 4 Aston Villa 2
THE GAME AT A GLANCE
Taylor has scored for Everton
Sharpe scored a goal for Everton
Hampton has scored for Villa
Sharpe scored the fourth goal for Everton.
GOSSIP ON THE GAME
It was with very little hope of success that the Villa journeyed to Goodison Park to-day with a disorganised and weakened side. All they could hope for was to draw or stave off a big defeat. We did not, perhaps see the Villa in their finest form, but they were in all respects save one equal to their foes. Their defeat was through their failure to force their opportunities.
Everton pressed home their attacks with sledge hammer force. That they did not score more goals was entirely due to the superb defence of the Villa.
Cooch is, on to-day’s form, a great goalkeeper; he worked with abundance of confidence, plenty of discretion, and was agile and sound as a bell.
Spencer was again, a tower of strength, and if the half-backs did not show much understanding they were persevering and always there when wanted.
The forwards were fairly enterprising, and Mathews goal was one of the prettiest seen for many days.
For periods in the second half Everton were almost irresistible, and the scoring of the two goals in quick time took the steam out of the Villa.
They speedily recovered, and gave Everton plenty of fun for their money. Hampton’s goal encouraged the Villa, but Sharp’s reply discouraged them.
They fought the closing stages with capital zest, and though heavily beaten were by no means disgraced. Few teams, with strength so impaired, would have done so well.
Spencer was the great man of the side. Cooch did well, and so did Harris, Wilkes and Hadley were effective. Hampton, Bache, and Hall were the best of the forwards, though the other two shaped well.

EVERTON'S ENTERTAINING EXHHIBITION
Athletic News - Monday 29 January 1906
By Junius
John D. Taylor and Tom Booth may reckon themselves amongst the fortune-favoured few, for they reaped, as they deserved, a bumper benefit by selecting the League fixture with the Villa for such an occasion. Even the weather fates were propitious, the day being preadolescent of the balmy spring time, and the public showed their appreciation of the worth of these two players by providing the largest attendance of the season since the Anfielders were at Goodison. Fully 30,000 were present, and the only drawback from a local point of view was the inability of Booth to take part in the game. That the Villa possess a magnetic attraction was proved by the large  assembly, and though the Midlanders, judged by their form in this match, are a long way removed from the team of yore, there was nevertheless some compensation forthcoming in the sudden return to their last season's form on the part of the Everton players. They shaped more efficiently in this match than in any other game played on their own enclosure since the opening of the present campaign, and with a dashing centre-forward in their ranks they must have registered a most decisive victory. On the general play the final scene of four goals to two does not over-represent Everton’s superiority.
STARTING WELL
Play had not been in progress ten minutes ere Settle received a centre from Young and promptly scored. For some time Everton maintained a strong attack, and the Villa goal escaped more by good luck than intention from a cross-shot by Sharp. Cooch appeared to fall back over the line in saving a shot from Bolton, whose first appearance it was at Goodison, but the referee ignored the strenuous claim for a goal. Gradually the Villa asserted themselves, and when Matthews beautifully converted a centre from Garratt, the contest assumed more even conditions. Just before the interval a curious incident happened. The Everton front rank bore down in fine style, and Young had the ball passed to him when near goal. That he was off-side seemed certain, for both and everyone else stopped playing, expecting to hear the whistle blow. The referee, however, thought otherwise, and being requested to "Go on” by the crowd, Young obliged, but all he could do was to miss a practically open goal. Had he scored, the Villa would, in my opinion, have suffered unjustly.
THE VILLA OVERCOME
In the second half Everton quickly took the lead, and after Settle and Hardman had Sent across several seductive centres, all of which were mulled, Taylor pounced on one, which ensued from corner kick, and gave his side the lead. Then Bolton was discovered careering away on the left wing instead of being in his rightful place, and he marked the incident by whipping the leather across to Sharp, who put on a third goal with a tremendous ground drive. After this reverse the Villa rearranged their half-back line, and they immediately secured a somewhat lucky point, for Balmer and Taylor between them failed to effect an easy clearance, and Hampton coming along scored a lovely goal from fairly long range.  Before the finish some excellent passing on the Everton left wing in which Makepeace and Hardman were concerned, enabled Sharp to gain a fourth goal, and from this point to the close of the game, the home team fairly had the measure of their rivals.
EVERTON’S RETURN TO FORM
I was agreeably surprised at the form shown by the Everton team, for it approached somewhat to that which was often displayed last winter, but which during the present season has been strangely wanting.  The wing forwards were excellent, and the only fault was weakness near goal.  This may appear strange, concerning a team which scores four goals against the Villa, but I venture to assert that had a boisterous bustling centre-forward received a tithe of the chances which Young secured the final figures would have been materially increased.  Bolton shaped most creditably, and he is certainly the most suitable partner Sharp has had since McDermott wandered South.  His passing was excellent, and he easily drew the Villa defenders, thereby giving the speedy extremist every opportunity of making progress.  Sharp and Hardman simply scintillated, and Settle played on his best game.  At half-back Makepeace, who figured on the left wing, appeared very strange in the first half, but after the interval he improved beyond all recognition, and must be given credit for a downright good display during the latter period.  Taylor played a characteristic game and scored his third goal this season. Black indulged in many neat touches.  Hall, Balmer and Scott were all capable. 
WEAK VILLA HALF-BACKS
The great weakness on the Villa side was at half-back, and even when the position were reversed, at a later stage, no improvement was noticeable.  As a natural result the forwards were not plied sufficiently, and extra pressure was brought to bear upon the full-backs and custodians.  Not one of the trio in the intermediate line shaped efficiently, and their attempts to stem the onward movements of the Everton front rank were woefully feeble.  There was one period, prior to half-time and immediately following Everton's first goal when they seemed to be finding their feet, but they subsequently fell away again.  Harris did not impress me as a resourceful back, and neither he nor Spencer maintained the coolness and reliability which has usually been associated with the past Villa teams when they have visited Liverpool.  Cooch had little chance of stopping any of the four goals registered against him, but he kept out several awkward shots, though in one or two instances he was a trifle fortunate in clearing.  Of the forwards Bache was the most judicious, while the wing men, Garrett and Hall, were the most prominent.  Hampton was under a cloud, although he scored with the finest shot of the match.  Everton; Scott; Hill, W. Balmer; Black, Taylor, Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle and H.P. Hardman.  Aston Villa; Cooch; Spender, Harris; Hadley, Pearson, Wilkes; Garrett, Matthews, Hampton, Bache, and Hall.  Referee; N. Whittaker, London. 

EVERTON 4 ASTON VILLA 2
January 29, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S BRILLIANT DISPLAY.
After a series of very disappointing exhibitions, Everton on Saturday returned to their old form, and greatly pleased their enthusiastic supporters by the brilliant game which they played against Aston Villa. Everton since the League was formed, Everton and the Villa have been stalwarts in the matter of the finer points of the Association game. However, badly either team might have been going, they have invariably risen to the occasion when in quest of the League points or cup-tie honours. Who will forget that ever memorable final at the Crystal Palace when the Villa triumphed over the “Blues” after admittedly one of the most delightful and scientific display of the Association football? Saturday's game by no means reached this high standard, but for all that it was a perfect treat to the spectators, who to the number of 30,000 assembled to do honours to Booth and Taylor, who were enjoying a well-deserved benefit.

A FAST GAME.
With the conditions altogether favourable, everything pointed to a keenly contested trial of strength. There were those who imagined that with neither team at full strength the quality of the play for an Everton v Villa match would suffer. Notwithstanding the fact that the Villa had nothing like their full cup team, the reserve did exceptionally well, and it was only after a galliant struggle that the Birmingham players succumbed by 4 goals to 2. From the outset it was evident that a rattling pace would be sustained, and the Everton front line went off with rare dash, and in less than six minutes Settle delighted the crowd with a long shot that had Gooch in difficulties, and found the net. This was just the encouragement, which the Everton vanguard required, and the manner in which they bombarded the goal was worthy of all praise. Equally meritorious were the efforts at this trying period of the Villa defence. Gradually the visiting forwards pulled themselves together, and from a pass by Garrett Matthews scored a splendid equalising point.

FOUR GOALS IN THE SECOND HALF.
Crossing over on level terms, the issue was still pretty open. Everton however, were not long in asserting themselves and from a second corner Taylor put the finishing touch for a characteristic centre from Settle. It was on the fitness of things that one of the boncciared should give his side the lead, but for all that the credit of the goal largely rested with Settle. Not many minutes elapsed before Sharp was responsible for a third goal. At this stage Everton's victory appeared assured but, taking advantage of a slight misunderstanding between Balmer and Makepeace, Hampton reduced the lead. This again placed the Evertonians on their mettle, and right gallantly did they respond, the honour falling to Sharp of securing a fourth point. Interest was maintained until the whistle blew, but no other goal were forthcoming, and Everton were left victors in an extremely interesting and satisfactory encounter.

GOOD PARTNER FOR SHARP.
As will be gathered the Everton side were in much better trim than has been the case for some time past. They were not like the same team that have given much recent lifeless display. In all departments there was proficiency shown that the well wishes of the club would dearly like to see distained. The forwards imparted any amount of dash into their work, and gave one the impression that they had fully make up their minds to leave nothing undone whereby to secure success. Young was the weakest of the quintet, but even he was much effective than he has been of late. Both wings were conspicuous, but the most satisfactory feature was the successful manner in which Bolton' the recruit from Newcastle, partnered Sharp. Although on the small side he showed all the coolness and resource of a skilled player and if Saturday's form may be taken as a sample of his ability, then Everton assuredly have at last found a suitable partner for Sharp. The half-backs division, though without Booth and Abbott, were effective throughout. Makepeace was not in his usual position still the exhibition, especially. In the second half was a treat to witness. Black was always in evidence, and as for Taylor, the veteran left no loophole for adverse criticism. Hill and Balmer were sound defenders but Scott had few demands made upon him, and for the Villa they were best served in defence. Spencer in particular playing a grand game. Cooch in goal was an excellent understudy to George. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, Hill, and W.Balmer, backs, Black, Taylor (Captain), and Makepeace half-backs, Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Aston Villa: - Cooch, goal, Spencer, and Harris, backs Pearson, Wilkes and Garraty, half-backs, Matthews, Hampton Bache, and Hall, forwards. Referee Mr. Whittaker.

SOUTHPORT CENTRAL RESERVES 2 EVERTON RESERVES 1
January 29 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 24)
The match between Southport Central and Everton provided a keenly contested game, and in winning by the odd goal of three the Central created something of a surprise. Their win was well deserved, and although the result has somewhat affected Everton's chances of championship honours the points are none the less welcome to the Sandgrounders. Both teams were well represented, except that the Central were still without Abrams. The home side were early favoured by having the assistance of the wind, and such good use did they make of their opportunities that they put on two goals in the opening half, the executants being McGuigan and Waddington (two players who have appeared with Liverpool by the way). The Central thus held a good lead at the interval, but in the second half Everton had more of the play and from a rush Cooke netted. Viner, the Central goalkeepers was rather badly hurt, and had to retire, his place being taken by Rimmer. Everton tried hard to get on terms, but the central defence held out, and to the delight of the spectators the game ended in a win for Southport by two goals to one. The winners are to be congratulated upon their capital display against their more fancied opponents, and their many friends may hope for further success in the near future. Everton: - Collins, goal, Wildman, and McQuillian backs, Chadwick, Wright, and Donaldson, half-backs, Rankin, McLoughlin, Dilly, Cooke, and Grundy forwards.

BEATEN AGAIN
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Monday 29 January 1906
EVERTON AVENGE THEMSELVES ON ASTON VILLA
A PLUCKY DISPLAY
By “Astonian.”
EVERTON 4 ASTON VILLA 2
For a certainty Goodison Park is not the football maelstrom it was. If it were the seriously weakened Aston Villa team who visited the ground on Saturday would not have avoided a disastrous drubbing. The surprise about the game was the comparatively narrow margin by which Everton were victorious. They whipped Bolton Wanderers, Liverpool- their keen city rivals and League leaders- Middlesbrough, Notts County, and Sheffield Wednesday, all better represented than their Saturday’s foes, by as big a score, in one or two instances bigger, as they beat the patchwork Villa team. Moreover, they had to work harder against the Villa than against several of the quintette of teams mentioned above.
Accidents, illness, and other causes have seriously impaired the strength of the Cup holders, and Saturday’s side was, on paper, the weakest that had represented the club for many a long day. There was a strong leavening or reserve talent and men were operating in strange positions. I expected a severe trouncing, and was agreeably surprised at the outcome.
TWO DEFICIENCES
But for two unfortunate deficiencies the Villa might reasonably have escaped with a smaller adverse record. The one fault was the failure of the forwards to press home their attacks. Very frequently they went swoping down on the Everton goal, but when extra exertion was needed it was lacking. The second fault was not theirs- it was the referee’s. Mr. Whittaker had either a curious notion of the off-side rule or he failed to follow the game as closely as he might have done.
Hardman, the fleet-footed Everton left winger, was allowed unusual tether, particularly in the second half, and a goal scored from one of his runs and centres ought not to have been allowed. Others of the Everton forwards were too leniently treated, and it was not their fault that more goals were not notched.
Taking the game as a whole, I don’t wish to quibble with the result. Everton were the better of the teams, and merited the two points. Their superiority was in attack. They were gallantly served by their wing men, Hardman and Sharp, both being speedy, and precise and discreet in their middling. The old Villa man has been provided with an enterprising, forceful partner in Bolton, who was found in a Newcastle junior team. In build and style the pair are very similar, and they bid fair to become a very dangerous wing. Hardman was indifferently served by his mate, Settle, who like Young, was rather inconsistent. Occasionally they accomplished exceedingly clever things; occasionally they frittered away their chances and shot badly. The forwards were, however, a better line than the Villa’s, because when near goal they went forward with the force and determination of a steam engine.
PROMISINGH RECRUITS
In midfield work the Villa five shaped well. They were clever, and controlled the ball as ably as did Young’s line; but when making for Scott they struck one as being half-hearted. Farther, when they got within range their shooting was indifferent.
Hall and Bache were, of course, the smarter wing, but Garrett and Matthews showed distinct promise. They put plenty of life and devil into their work and were familiar with each other’s methods. The goal they obtained between them was one of the smartest I have seen for many a day. Hampton did many good things but was not in his best mood.
At half-back Everton were stronger than the Villa. Black, Taylor, and Makepeace were not more active or persevering than Wilkes, Pearson and Handle, but they displayed better understanding and were more resourceful. They fed their forwards more judiciously, too. Pearson did only moderately in Leake’s position, but Wilkes and Hadley worked untiringly against two very clever wings. Wilkes had a lissom pair of artists to fight, and it was not until the game was in the advanced stages that they got the mastery of him. On the whole, however, the Villa intermediate line was not up to the high standard for which it is famed.
TWO STRONG DEFENDERS.
Steadfast and surefooted, Spencer was a conspicuous figure in the Villa defence. He was very successful in the first half, when his kicking was clean and well-placed. In checking individual dashes he never blundered. In the second half he was frequently outpaced by Hardman, but he was invariably round goal when danger was imminent. Harris was in a strange position, but fought bravely and with plenty of vigour. On the whole Spencer and Harris were a better pair than Hill and Balmer.
The goalkeeping of Cooch in the first half was one of the features of the game. He was agile, strong, and confident. Again and again, as the Everton forwards moved with alacrity and shot with force and aim, the spectators shouted “goal,” but they counted their chickens before they were hatched; in other words, Cooch saved times without number when everything appeared lost. As already pointed out, the Villa were beaten, but not disgraced. And some of the reserve talent proved the truth of the familiar saying that there are as good fish in the sea as have been captured.
Let me briefly relate how and when the goals were obtained. Both sides got one in the first half, Settle for Everton and Matthews for the Villa. There was a grave doubt about Settle’s; not so about Matthews’s. it was a brilliant conversion of a centre by Garrett. In the second half Everton were credited with three-one by Taylor and two by Sharp. With neither had Cooch a chance. Hampton got the Villa’s second with a capital shot.
After the match the Villa proceeded to Rhyl, where they were later in the evening joined by a batch of reserves who journeyed from Birmingham. In the invigorating North Wales air the men will prepare for next Saturday’s Cup tie with Plymouth Argyle.

EVERTON v ASTON VILLA
Sporting Life - Monday 29 January 1906
Last year-Everton 3; Aston Villa 2
This match had been set apart for the benefit Taylor and Booth, and as both men are great favourites with the Everton spectators, it was not surprising that the attendance was well on to 30,000. Everton were the first to take up the attack, and Hardman became prominent. Then the home left wing kept Spencer, but the latter was safe. The visitors took up the attack, only to find the home backs in capital form. A nice pass from Sharp to Young, and from the latter to Settle, resulted in the latter scoring for Everton. The home team had considerably the best of the game for some time, when the Villa took play into the home territory. Everton eventually broke away, and the ball was dangerously near the visitors’ goal. Eventually Garrett passed to Matthews, who gave Scott no chance. Hall sent in a shot, which the home custodian just cleared. Cooch had an exciting time, having to clear from Hardman and Sharp, while Young sent the ball against the post. The game continued fast and exciting.
At half-time the score stood;- Everton 1, Aston Villa 1
Everton were soon aggressive and subsequently Taylor scored from a corner. Shortly afterwards Sharp from a centre by Makepeace, put on Everton’s third point. Aston afterwards added another to their total, Hampton sending a well-directed shot into the net. A nice bout of passing by the home forwards ended in Sharp scoring a fourth point.
Result;- Everton 4; Aston Villa 2
Everton.- Scott; Hill, and W. Balmer; Black, Taylor (captain), and Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, H.P. Hardman.
Aston Villa.- Cooch; Spencer, and Harris; Hadley, Pearson, and Wilkes; Garrett, Matthews, Hampton, Bache, and Hall. Referee, Mr. N. Whittaker.

ASTON VILLA DEFEATED AGAIN
Birmingham Daily Post - Monday 29 January 1906
Aston Villa have not with much success at Goodison Park, and it was hardly anticipated that the eleven chosen to represented them on Saturday would be equal to the task of getting a couple of points there, although Everton’s form recently has been far from good.  It almost invariably happens, however, that when they oppose the  Villa the Liverpool men display their best form.  For one reason the clubs are old rivals, and for another they play the same class of scientific football.  So it was on Saturday, for the crowd of about 25,000 people were treated to one of the best exhibitions given by Everton this season. That was the verdict of the club directors. It is not therefore to be wondered at that the Villa, with a weakened team, were beaten by four goals to two. Still the victory, thoroughly deserved as it was, was not won without a keen struggle, and at one period it really looked as if the visitors would succeed in wresting a point from their rivals. At the outset the Everton forwards set a great pace. They were finely supported by the men behind them, and their footwork was clean and their passing accurate. The result was that the Villa defence was very hard pressed, and it was no surprise when Settle scored. His shot was the climax to a delightful bout of passing. Then for a time the visitors’ goal was bombarded, and while  it had some narrow escapes Gooch saved many deadly shots; in fact George could not have excelled him during that trying time. When the assault was warded off Aston Villa opened the game out, and long swinging passes assisted them in getting a greater share of the play, it was a sudden transference by Bache to the outside right that led to Garrett getting away, his pass to Matthews was judicious, and the inside men made the scores level. In the next minute Scott by the purest luck imaginable saved his charge again, the ball striking the back of his hand and going over the bar. In the last quarter of an hour of the first half Aston Villa were quite as good as their opponents. They started the second half well, but misfortune befell them, for the referee failed to notice Young put the ball over the line, and gave a corner instead of a goal kick. This was only cleared by conceding another, and from the latter Taylor scored. The next goal was finely obtained, Hardman outpaced Spencer and put the ball to Sharp, who, receiving it on his knee, practically ran it into goal. Then the Villa men rose to the occasion, and Hampton reduced the lead, but only momentarily, for hardman received a pass when yards behind the backs, was allowed to go on, and once more Sharp put on the finishing touch. The Villa came near to scoring again on two subsequent occasions, but there was a lack of the cohesion necessary to crown the movements with success. Everton may be deemed fortunate in being allowed to count the four goals registered, but on the other hand they were distinctly unfortunate with several shots that hit the uprights and crossbar, and one is bound to admit that they were the better side. The forwards were vert smart, although Young blundered occasionally; but Sharp was in great form, and led Harris a rare dance. In Bolton Everton seem to have picked up a young inside right just suited to Sharp’s play, and on the other wing Hardman was very prominent. Young’s chief fault was a propensity for getting offside, and Hardman showed a disposition to sin in this respect.
The half-back line was very sound, and Balmer was strong in defence, but Hill was erratic. Scott had little to do. The Villa forwards played well in midfield, but often finished badly, while in comparison with the opposing five they seemed to lack speed, and their efforts were laboured. Hadley was about the best of a half-back line that was only moderate. In the second half Pearson and Wilkes changed places, the latter going to the centre, but no appreciable difference was made. Wilkes was certainly clever, but he seemed to lack energy. Spencer, although he found Hardman too fast for him, was responsible for a lot of skilful work, and Harris struggled manfully all through. He was meeting a past-master in Sharp, and naturally was sometimes beaten, but on the other hand he often stuck so tenaciously to his antagonist that he gave a colleague an opportunity to clear. For a half-back making his first appearance at full-back in a First League encounter he did not shape at all badly. In goal Cooch was clever and resourceful, and could not be blamed for the points scored against him.

A NEW EVERTON
Liverpool Echo - Monday 29 January 1906
Bee
The air was full of satisfaction at Goodison Park on Saturday. Everything went well- exceedingly well. Full points were garnered in by the home side, full value was given the 26,000 spectators, for the game was very finely contested and open, and Booth-Taylor reaped a deserved harvest of gold by reason of a large assembly which enjoyed the fare provided. The weather, too, was of the best the clerk of the weather could have dealt out, and it was a pleasant Saturday afternoon, that will long live in the memory of those present. The morale of the match was marked. Players who come with contact with gentlemen of the standing of Spencer, Jack Sharp, and Harold Hardman-about the last-named I hear a most interesting rumour; I wonder whether he will follow Herbert Smith’s example some time in March? – must become influenced by them, and they must realise how the three members named are respected. Spencer lacks speed and makes up the deficiently in tact and tackling. He was a master throughout.so was Sharp. His brilliant wing play has been consistent, and having seen him for eight seasons I am convinced that he never played better in his life. He had Wilkes readily held up, and in the later stages, when the prettiest looking footballer in the country-by name Hedley-was specially moved by the Villa captain to try his luck with the right wing things progressed just as before, and it was apparent that the best half back in the country would have found Sharp a veritable Tartar, although let us not overlook the weak work of Harris, who has never before been played in the rear. The right wing of the winning side had a grand conception of how to do their damage and in a brief message let me pour out a eulogy of Bolton, the new inside right. He is a McDermott in style of tun, dribble, and carriage, but, best of all, never tires of working and knowns that goal is the place of his high calling, and makes trucks immediately for that desired haven. His cleverness success in drawing the half back away from Sharp and in parting with the ball at an oblique angle instead of meandering round. At times one saw him kindly helping the defence. This was good; yet I imagine he has no used to take on defensive work, while the half back line is so strong. He will get goals unless his early form in unreliable, and I think that his exhibition of Saturday is only a forerunner of other’ excellent games.
It was quite in the fitness of things that “Jocky” Taylor should more a goal on so conspicuous occasion. One could not uphold the referee’s decision of a corner kick from which the great half back scored. Nevertheless he answers a query put in this column on Friday. It was asked how the Blues would fare when they were given corner kicks-the idea being that the forwards were of diminutive built and would be unable to head the ball. Taylor has given the answer. He sure “The halves will head in.”
It is a long time since Settle played with such dash and skill, and likewise Makepeace, who shone resplendently at left half. Young too, improved on earlier showings, though making a trio of glaring mistakes. Black needs to be a trifle more antagonistic/. The defence was always reliable, and in fact it was a new Everton we saw. Long may they give us of their ability as on Saturday. Cooch is a capital substitute for George, the intermediate line is weak, and the forwards moderate.

SCRAPS OF SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 29 January 1906
After a series of disappointing exhibitions, Everton on Saturday returned to their old form, and greatly pleased their enthusiastic supporters by the brilliant game which they played against Aston Villa. It was a perfect treat to the spectators, who, to the number of 30,000, assembled to do honour to Booth and Taylor, who were enjoying a well-deserved benefit. In all departments there was a proficiency shown that the well-wishers of the club would dearly like to see sustained. The forwards imparted any amount of dash into their work, and gave one the impression that they had fully made up their minds to leave nothing undone whereby to secure success. Young was the weakest of the quintet, but even he was much more effective than he has been of late. Both wings were conspicuous, but the most satisfactory feature was the successful manner in which Bolton, the recruit from Newcastle, partnered Sharp. Although on the small side, he showed all the coolness and resource of a skilled player, and if Saturday's form may be taken as a sample of his ability, then Everton assuredly have at last found a suitable partner for Sharp.
When one looked back at the feeble displays which the Everton team have given of late it could hardly be realised on Saturday that the men in the blue jerseys were the same players. It only remains for Everton to find a really clever centre—admittedly a difficult matter—to once more hold their own with the best teams in the country. If only Young would come back to his best we should have a forward line capable of scoring plenty of goals. Booth and Taylor have no cause to complain with respect to their benefit match. It is stated that, including tickets, the receipts amounted to about £800.

SCARPS ON SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 31 January 1906
Everton Reserve pay a visit to St. Helens on Saturday to encounter the Recs, the team being -Collins; Wildman and Crelly; Chadwick, Wright, and Donaldson; Rankin, McLoughlin, McCarthy, Warbis, and Butler.
The Everton team to meet Chesterfield at Goodison-park on Saturday in the second round of the English Cup will be Scott; Hill, and W. Balmer; Black, Taylor, and Makepeace, Sharp, Cooke, Young, Settle and Hardman.
Bolton is not available for the Cup tie.