SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 01 March 1906
Everton are due to meet Bolton Wanderers on Saturday at Bolton, and as Sharp, Young, Settle, and Hardman are unfit to play, the Blues will be at a great disadvantage. Under the circumstances it is hardly likely that the Goodison-road club will prevail over such a strong side as Bolton on their own playing pitch. The latter club have been going great guns of late at home, and it is quite a common occurrences for the forwards to score five or six goals in a match. At any rate Everton with a weakened team may be relied on to do their best. The defence and middle division will be well represented by Scott; W. Balmer, and Crelly; Booth, Taylor, and Makepeace, but the forwards will have to be selected from the following;- Birnie, Bolton, Wright, Cook, Donnachie, Dilly, and Grundy.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 01 March 1906
I have had a stock of suggestions sent in with reference to the Everton club from correspondents who have the club’s interest at heart. “Supporters” make mention of the benefit of Swedish massage, and thinks Sharp and Hardman would greatly benefit by this treatment. “Arnold,” giving the following forward line; Birnie, Bolton, Dilly, McLoughlin, and Donnachie, asks, “who knows the wonders this line might accomplish?” Another writer fancies that had Abbott netted one point when tried as pivot he would have had an extended trial there, but as he failed once he was moved immediately. “True Blue” hits out and declares that the Blues are blundering through and capable reserves have never once this season been found. He offers a team-it is a fascinating game for a reader to become a team builder- and includes Booth vice Abbott (“because the left half is lacking in speed”) and Dilly in centre (“because last time out Dilly scored two goals, and goals are always a potent argument”).
The defence has been settled upon, and the only alteration is that Booth reappears vice Abbott. The forwards will be chosen from the following names;- Birnie, Bolton, Wright, Cooke, Donnachie, Dilly, and Grundy.
The Liverpool public are to have another view of George Robey as a sprightly footballer. He is going to play with the Northern Nomads at the Everton ground, on Wednesday next against Manchester University (kick-off 3.15) who have defeated thrice only this season. At Fallowfield they conquered the Northern team by 2-1. Other dates fixed up are as follow;- March 21 v Liverpool University, at Goodison Park.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Friday 02 March 1906
The meeting of another pair of Lancashire club is of little consequence, inasmuch as there is every likelihood of Everton being beaten at Bolton, where the Wanderers have largely been piling on margins which smack more of second division matches than those between first-rate sides. Everton have really nothing to gain, and as much to lose, so they can afford to experiment with the forward rank. In fact, as injuries have fallen on two members who will probably not be able to play in the Cup tie of Saturday week, it gives the directors an excellent opportunity for experimenting. This I should imagine will be their view, and though I have had faith in Dilly on the showing at home as pivot I should omit him this week, and test another. I have heard a deal that is good about Wright, who has fine physique, and is reputed, even as a half back, to fear nothing, and “to go right through” and should be favourable read this;- Birnie, Bolton, Wright, Cooke, and Donnachie. Maybe he will prove the Wright man in the Wright place.
At Goodison the Wanderers and Everton Reserves meet, and Hannan will be back again. Bowser, of Asbury Richmond, and a clubmate in Tomlin, together with a Liverpool local named Bannister, will be on view. I am sorry Bowser has to come once more to a heavy turf, for his build is not such that he can display his worth on heavy going. Still, in similar conditions, the last time he was up here he did very creditably.

EVERTON v BOLTON WANDERERS
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 03 March 1906
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
TROTTERS LEAD AT HALF-TIME
The Evertonians paid their return visit to Bolton to-day, but their prospects were the reverse to cheering. Calamity after calamity has overtaken the players, and the climax was reached when it was found impossible to play a single regular performer in the forward line this afternoon. Indeed, it is safe to say that even the most consistent follower of the club scarcely recognised the team when they trotted on to the heavy turf at Burden Park. The weather was gloriously fine, and a great crowd of spectators turned out to witness what, with all drawbacks, promised to be a stiff game. The Wanderers are in high feather just now on account of their goal getting propensities, but the Evertonians were determined to offer the stoutest resistance to their attack. Prompt to time, the opposing sides lined out in the following order.-
Everton- Scott, goal; Hill & Crelly, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Makepeace, halves, Birnie, Bolton, Wright, Cooke, and Donnachie, forwards.
Bolton.- Davies, goal; Baverstock, and Ostick, backs; Robertson, Clifford, and Boyd, half-backs; Stokes, Marsh, Shepherd, White, and McEwan, forwards.
Referee.- R. T. Jones, of Hanley.
Under the influences of the sun, the overnight frost had thawed, and the going was decidedly heavy when play started in the presence of 20,000 spectators. Tom Booth lost the toss, and Everton started against a slight cross breeze and with their backs to the sun. wright set the ball in motion, and the first movement was made by Clifford, but Crelly punted clear, and the Everton right made ground. Birnie ran down, and looked dangerous, but at the critical moment he slipped in the mud, and Ostick cleared. The visitors, however, returned immediately, and Wright shoed no hesitation in putting in a swift oblique shot, which the home custodian was very smart in clearing. After a few more minutes’ play the ground was churned up into a veritable morass, and the men found the greatest difficulty in keeping their feet. The Wanderers managed this better than their opponents, and they advanced on the right, Marsh sending in a magnificent shot, which went just over the crossbar. A breakaway by the Everton left came to nothing, and a moment later the home forwards were on the move. They dribbled the ball over the mud with astonishing cleverness, and Shepherd, getting between the backs, put in a glorious shot, which Scott cleared finely at the second attempt, after this the Trotters laid systematic siege to the Everton goal, and both Crelly and Hill were given a lot of work to do, the latter off one occasion intercepting a swift low shot from Marsh, and then a long shot from the foot of McEwan went sailing high over the bar. So far the argument had been all in favour of the home side, but the visitors gradually made ground on the right, and a peat pass by Bolton gave Wright an opening, but he was rather slow, with the result that Ostick was enabled to clear. The visitors at this stage were asserting themselves strongly, and from a throw in Wright centred finely, Davies throwing clear. Booth, however, caught the return, and he had a favourable opening when he shot high over the bar. Following upon this Bolton Wanderers moved down in workmanlike fashion, and after beating Hill White put in a shot which caused Scott some anxiety. The Irish International, however, threw clear, and the ball travelled towards the centre. The home left wing were most persistent, and it was not long before they got on the move once more. This time their efforts were crowned with success, for White, taking a judicious pass, banged the leather into the net just out of the Everton custodian’s reach. It was a swift, low shot, and Scott had no chance of coping with it. This success was loudly applauded, and for some time subsequently the Wanderers looked very like running their opponents off their feet. Twice Crelley stopped ugly and threatening rushes by the three inside Bolton lads, and then McEwan, racing with speed over the slippery ground, sent in a long dropping shot, which Scott fisted in brilliant fashion. A short spell of midfield work followed, and then Everton made play on the left, but the movement only ended in Cooke shooting over the bar, a break away by Stokes was well checked by Makepeace, and then Birnie getting possession, worked his way through, and sent in a swift ground shot. Davies failed to gather it properly, with the result that he only partially cleared, and Cooke, nipping in, banged the ball into the net. The teams were on level terms again, and the Evertonians proceeded to play up strongly. Two capital shots being fired by White and Birnie without success. The game was now being contested in ding dong fashion, and despite the wretched state of the ground the pace was exceedingly fast. Wright worked through once, and was just about to shoot when Baverstock rushed in and punted clear. A foul against Taylor close in looked bad for Everton, but the shot was intercepted, and there were further passages at arms in midfield. Bolton worked down on the right, and Stokes centred splendidly, but Hill headed clear. The visitors once more advanced smartly, and Wright passed out to Bolton, who ran in and tried to shoot, but Raverstock stopped him, and the ex-Newcastle man was slightly injured in the collision. The game, however, was only delayed a moment and the next movements of interest were in the vicinity of the central line of the Everton right wing, forced the pace, and from a pass by Birnie Bolton shot with great force, but Davies threw himself at the ball and just succeeded in clearing. The Boltonians in turn took up the running, and a very pretty forward movement ended in Shepherd shooting inches wide of the upright. A few seconds later Stokes ran down and put in a glorious centre, but Hill got his head to the ball, and the Everton lines were cleared. At half-time approached the Wanderers put on double pressure, but the Everton halves and backs stood up gamely and time after time the invaders were beaten back. Taylor initialled a promising movement, but Donnachie was just too late to prevent the ball going over the line. The same player, however, speedily returned and put in a clever centre, but Cooke was offside when he tried the ball into the net. Hands against Everton led to a hot bully in the goalmouth, from which a corner was forced off Makepeace. This was excellently placed by Stokes, and McEwan put in a terrific shot, which was passed right through Scott’s hands into the net. This second success was the signal for a great outburst of cheering, and the Wanderers for a time gave the Everton defence an especially warm time, Clifford finally raising the siege by shooting wide of the mark. Just before the interval shots from close range were put in by both White and Shepherd, but they were charged down. A breakaway by the visitors put them in the home quarters, but Baverstock administered a check.
Half-time score.- Bolton Wanderers 2 goals, Everton 1 goal
After a lengthy interval the game was resumed before an augmented attendance. The Wanderers tried to get away on the right, but Crelly pulled them up very cleverly, and Donnachie and Cooke manfully carried war into the enemy’s camp. The advance, however, was not attended by any success, and it was not long before the home right wing were causing trouble, Stokes banging in a terrific shot, which only a man of Scott’s cleverness could have saved. There was no mistaking the determination of the Trotters to live up to their goal-getting reputation, for they proceeded to literally pepper the Everton goal. Marsh on one occasion placed the ball splendidly, but Scott came to the rescue, and then McEwan hit the side of the net. The visitors were not inclined to let. The home side have matters all their own way, and a combined forward movement looked extremely promising. Bolton worked through and gave to Wright, but the centre forward was just too late, and a fine opportunity was lost. Makepeace was responsible for some clever work, which put his forwards in possession, and after Bolton had missed a nice opening, Booth shot wide. For a considerable period Everton monopolised the attack, but there was weakness in front of goal, and the Wanderers were invariably able to clear their lines. So the game progressed, each end being visited in turn, without anything happening. Everton pressed, and twenty minutes from time Taylor equalised. The Wanderers attacked; Scott saved brilliantly. Just on time White scored.
Final Result; Bolton Wanderers 3 goals Everton 2 goals.

EVERTON v  BOLTON WANDERERS
The Liverpool Football Echo- Saturday February 3 1906
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV 1
At Goodison, this afternoon. Everton made a trial to three recruits in the forward line, Tomlin partnered McLoughlin on the right, Bowser appeared at centre, and Bannister and Butler formed the left wing. Napier led off for the visitors, and the opening exchanges were contested in midfield. Butler made an ineffectual attempt to get away. Then Bowser was beaten for possession when attempting to take a long pass from Chadwick. The Trotters next accounted the aggressive, but failed to make any impression on the defence of Wildman and Hannan. Then Bowser was given another opportunity of distinguishing himself, but he stuck tenaciously to the leather and attempted too much, with the result that Lawrie dispossessed him when close to goal, next followed a serious disaster for the Blues, Hannan having the misfortune to place the ball into his own goal from a close shot by Napier. After this reverse, the Blues attacked in persistent fashion, but, generally speaking, the work of the forwards was lacking in finish. They repeatedly remained in possession when a judicious pass might have brought about the desired result. On one occasion Bowser wandered over to the right wing and finished with a weak attempt to beat Bloomfield, which failed. Butler put in a clever centre, which was not turned to account, and then the Wanderers pressed in determined fashion and Wildman and Hannan were sorely tried.
Halt-time- Bolton Res 1 Everton Res 0

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 05 March 1906
It is a long time since both of our local teams were beaten on the same day, but this time the two elevens had to bow the knee. We expected Everton to lose to Bolton by at least four goals, but once more we were surprised, for the Blues only lost by the odd goal, and that scored in the last few minutes of the game. Had Everton taken one point away from Bolton it would have been no more than they deserved, for they made a plucky fight with a weakened team against well-tried opponents. Although the forwards did fairly well considerably the composition of the line, it was the defence which pulled Everton through with credit. Scott played a brilliant game in goal, whilst the backs and half-backs played excellently. The middle men were at the top of their form, and it was mainly due to their efforts that the Wanderers’ sharpshooters were held in check.
It was something altogether novel to see an Everton forward line without such noted forwards as Sharp, Settle, and Hardman. Four of the forwards certainly had played in one or more League matches, but apart from Bolton not one of them was a recognised member of the League team, while Wright, who filled the centre forward position, made his first appearance in a League match. True, the defence was composed of tried men, and doubtless it was the feeling that in this respect the side was all right which spurred on the practically untried men to their best efforts.

EVERTON BEATEN ON THE POST
Bolton Evening News - Monday 05 March 1906
GREAT LANCASHIRE BATTLE AT BURNDEN PARK
The titanic battle for supremacy between Bolton Wanderers and Everton at Burnden Park on Saturday created a profound impression upon a magnificent crowd estimated at nearly 23,000 strong. It was fought under almost ideal conditions, for the sun shone from a blue sky, and there was very little wind, but the ground soaked by Thursday’s rain, offered a precarious footing to the players, and as the game wore on it churned up badly. Naturally it was very heavy going, and only splendidly-trained teams could have contested the game at such an exhilarating pace, for the ball, gathering the mud as it went along, became fearfully heavy and greasy. But neither side spared itself. Every inch of the ground was doggedly disputed, and considering the disadvantages under which the players laboured, the wonder is that play was of so high a standard and so interesting. There were few idle moments, and the excitement of the huge assembly was worked up to a high pitch by the fluctuating fortunes and even nature of the game, which was anybody’s right to the last five minutes. Everton were unfortunate in having Sharp, Young, Settle, and Hardman, and W. Balmer away, injured or indisposed, but those who had anticipated an easy victory to the Wanderers had apparently overlooked the fact that the Goodison club are happy in the possession of reserve players of rare ability, and it is questionable whether the Merseysiders would have obtained better service from their strongest eleven. The only change in the Bolton team was that Robertson was included at half-back after an absence of close on three months, Clifford going back to centre-half in place of Taylor Mr. R.T. Johns, the Hanley referee, whistled the following teams into line;-
Wanderers; Davies, goal; Baverstock and Ostick, backs; Robertson, Clifford, and Boyd, half-backs; Stokes, Marsh, Shepherd, White, and McEwan, forwards.
Everton; Scott, goal; Hill and Crelly, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Bernie, Bolton, Wright, Cooke, and Donnachie, forwards.
WANDERERS START THE SCORING
Upon winning the toss, Stokes set Everton to face a slight cross breeze, and before they had time to settle down to the slippery ground, most of the players came to grief and were soon covered with mud. The first goal was within an ace of being recorded in less than five minutes, Shepherd making a characteristic dribble which carried him into the goalmouth. Here he got in a hot shot just as the backs sandwiched him, and Scott just succeeded in diverting the ball round the post with his right arm outstretched. Shots in plenty flew about the Everton goal during the next few minutes, but gradually the Everton half-backs forced play into the Wanderers’ quarters, where Baverstock’s defence was very fine. After Booth had shot high and wide, Shepherd rolled a tame shot in to Scott after beating the backs, but immediately afterwards Stokes put across a sparkling centre, which Hill failed to check, with Shepherd on top of him, and, taking the ball with only Scott in front of him, White scored with a fast oblique shot, which the Irish International custodian, although he threw himself full length, was quite unable to reach. After thus gaining the lead, the Wanderers seemed to ease up, and paid the penalty, for Bolton forced his way past Ostick, and with an almost similar shot to the one which had just scored, he brought Davies full length, but before the Welshman could clear, Cooke sailed in to equalise. From this point Everton played up with greater confidence, and after Davies had bungled an effort from Wright, the custodian did well to advance and another a shot from Bolton, who had an open goal. Both sides carried out a series of sparkling attacks, but the visitors were thrice very dangerous, Davies diving at a cross shot from Taylor and saving at the expense of an abortive corner. The Bolton half-backs were singularly ineffective for a time, and several corners brought Everton no reward. However, the Wanderers pulled themselves together, and five minutes from the interval Stokes compelled Crelly to give a corner, which he placed accurately, Marsh turning the ball over to McEwan, who skipped round Hill, and with a fast low shot, which Scott was unprepared for, he regained the lead for the Wanderers. The ball appeared to go through Scott’s hands, but a moment later, when both White and McEwan had an open goal before them, the visiting keeper displayed his genius and at half-time the Wanderers had to rest content with a lead of 2-1.
WEARING EVERTON DOWN
Most of the players changed their mud-stained clothes during the interval, had Scott had quickly to best himself when Stokes got across a dangerous long shot, McEwan got through with a pass from White, but his shot went into the side of the net, and whilst Everton maintained an aggressive attitude, Shepherd waiting well up in the hope of catching the backs unprepared, twice broke off, but he failed to control the ball and lost it. More corners to Everton were followed by an equalising goal, Baverstock and Ostick getting in each other’s way, and conceding a corner, from which Taylor sent the ball through a crowd of players into the net, Davies’s view being obstructed until it was too late. Then, with the scores once more equal, came the tug of war, both sides showing splendid resolution, and the Everton defence was so sound that the Wanderers’ only hope seemed to be to wear down their opponents and they set about the task with rare vigour. Shepherd and Marsh almost carried the goal by storm, and then the former galloped half the length of the field with Hill by his side, and had not Scott rushed out he could scarcely have failed to score. As it was the ball went out. Though the Wanderers continued to attack smartly, they were opposed to a stubborn foe, but time was fitting rapidly away, and hotter and hotter grew the pace, the Wanderers attacking desperately to regain their lost advantage. The excitement was intense, and when five minutes from the end White again brought about the downfall of the Everton citadel the pent up feelings of the thousands were let loose, and a memorable some of joy ensued. Clifford smartly checked a dash by Wright and placed the ball forward to White, who, when his opponents expected him to feed his partner, carried the ball past Booth and shot on the run before either Hill or Taylor could tackle him. The ball sailed slightly over the left of Scott, who jumped up in a vain endeavour to arrest its progress, and coming into contact with the underside of the crossbar it fell safely into the back of the net. Thus the little Hurlford forward snatched the game out of the fire, and his colleagues almost overwhelmed him with congratulations. Scott had many anxious moments before the finish, and Everton were in the midst of a capital run when the whistle went.
PLAY AND PLAYERS
The Wanderers are carrying all before them, every League match in which they have figured this year having yielded them the maximum points. Since the close of 1905 they have built up the following record;-
Play 7 Won 7 Lost 0, Drawn 0 For 26 Against 9 Points 14
No other club in the League has equalled this splendid achievement, and there are only four clubs in the League with a better record. But the team is not all that could be desired by a long way, and everybody must wish good luck to the efforts of the directors to secure another reliable defender. This is the one thing needed to make the Bolton eleven thoroughly efficient, for with steadier full back play Davies may be expected to return to his old form. Everton did not give him a great amount of work, but he had several awkward problems to solve, and no blame attached to him for the two goals registered against him. The Wanderers greatest weakness was at left back, where Ostick appeared quite unable to sprint on the muddy surface. If he could have travelled at all the first goal would have been prevented and probably the second, and the question arises whether the directors would not be well advised to give an extended trial to either Kay or Lawrie. The extra work thrown upon Baverstock’s willing shoulders is sure to tell its tale on his play in the near future and for the sake of the team, which has yet a chance of having a big say in the allocation of the League championship, it is incumbent upon the officials to recognise the claims of the best men. We yield to no one in our admiration of the splendid service which Charlie Ostick has rendered to the club- a service which deserves to be liberally rewarded when his benefit takes place on the 24th inst, but youth will be served, and the Chorley man seems to apprehend that present day forward play is very fast and requires speed, as well as experience, to cope with it where the Wanderers strength lies. Often have we pointed out that the forwards have invariably to pull the team through and make good the blunders committed in defence. Obviously if the rear-guard can be made more difficult to beat there is an even greater measure of prosperity in store for the club than in the past. Baverstock was heavily over-worked again on Saturday, and towards the close of the game he felt the strain which first manifested itself at West Ham. The Bolton half-backs were not so well balanced as usual, Robertson scarcely reproducing his form of October and November. He seemed over-anxious, and not quite smart enough on the ball, whilst Boyd, in his desire to help his back, had a tremendous amount of running about without achieving the most effect. Therefore Clifford was the best of the trip for he tackled with good judgement, and did a lot of useful work in opening out the game, but once or twice he lost ground in trying to get through when the ball might with advantage have been slipped out to the wings. As a line, the Everton half-backs were more effective and better balanced, and this was perhaps the only place where the Liverpudlians could claim any marked superiority. Upon the forwards it is difficult to bestow adequate praise for the persistence with which they harassed the Everton defence until it capitulated. White was again the star of the line, and if Scotland can produce a better inside left then Boltonians would like to see him. His two goals were gems of strategy and judgement, whilst his manoeuvring and passing repeatedly evoked applause., McEwan rendered him capital support, though well watched, and on the other extreme whilst Stokes shot and centred with unerring accuracy he often flinched when it came to the last stride and apparently seemed afraid of his damaged ankle being tapped again. Marsh was as usual, a whole=hearted enthusiast, shirking neither work nor hard knocks, and always striving to keep his forward colleagues together, but Shepherd must guard against too much individualism. He worked with splendid energy, but in his desire to go through on his own he needs to remember that there are wings on either side of him waiting for something to do. We would not discourage him, but it is well that he should discriminate when to co-operate with the other forwards, and when to make one of those dashes which have brought so many goals to the Wanderers’ credit.

EVERTON RESERVE’S SURPRISE
Liverpool Echo - Monday 05 March 1906
Bee
Evertonians were jubilant. Defeat was nothing to them; they were so delighted to know that the men had made a gallant fight and had twice put the ball into the net. There was an air of satisfaction about the man when he noted the result, and for my own past I was glad of the news; it convinces me that Sheffield Wednesday have not a “walkover” next Saturday in the Cup tie at Goodison, as same pessimist would have us believe.
Those hot Trotters have won all their matches since the year 1906 came in, and their narrow margin against the Blues made their number of victims up to seven-these consecutively. Scott seems to have played the game of his career with Everton. He had no assistance from the elements and the ground was a heavy that it was wonderful how he used from one portion of the goal to the one, Burnden Park never presents a p[ark-like appearance. He was alert and skilful and showed great judgement in interception the greasy ball. In front of him he was by two resolute backs, Hill playing at was unwell. Then the intermediate line was forceful as ever. The four reserve forwards did fairly well. Birnie was the best in the quartet. He has gained confidence his first outing with the senior members and along with Bolton, made a sprightlywing. I hold that Birnie is going to be an incapable forward someday. Wright as a centre forward was as hard-working as ever. He was outclassed, however, and the directorate seem as far off as ever in the problem filling the most important position.

BOLTON WANDERERS 3 EVERTON 2
March 5, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S PLUCKY FLIGHT.
Truly the unexpected close happen in League football. When the composition of the Everton team to do duty against Bolton Wanderers at Burnden-park became known the general opinion was that the "Blues" would be hopelessly beaten. Victory was declared to be absolutely impossible. Five-nothing or six to nothing against was the mournful cry. Yet in the event the belittled Everton side were only beaten in the last few minutes by an odd goal on a ground where the home side have been pretty well invincible this season. It was an eye-opener to the croakers to find the reorganised team giving such a plucky and wholehearted display. Although the odds were against them they never gave up hope, and so gallantly did they stick to their work that the 22,000 spectators were heartily glad when the end came with their favourites gaining the verdict by the narrow margin of three goals to two. It was something altogether novel to see an Everton forwards line without such noted forwards as Sharp, Settle, and Hardman. Four of the forwards certainly had played in one of more League matches, but apart from Bolton not one of them was a recognised member of the League team, while Wright, who filled the centre forward position, made his first appearance in a League match. True the defence was composed of tried men, and doubtless it was the feeling that in this respect the side was all right, which spurred on the practically untried men to their best efforts.
RUN OF THE PLAY.
The ground itself was in a terribly soft state, and hardly a blade of grass was visible. For all that the spectators were treated to a really interesting and dashing display. In the early stages the Wanderers sharp shooters were seen in an aggressive mood. Shepherd one of the best centre forwards in the county was soon in evidence, and for his clearance of one terrific shot, Scott was cleared to the echo, as he well deserved to be. However after 15 minutes play, the Everton custodian had to acknowledge himself beaten. But it was through no fault of his Stokes sent across a capital centre, which went out to White, who, with no one to disturb him, scored with a fast oblique shot. In no way dismayed Everton kept begging away, and their reward came when after Davies fell full length in attempting to stop a shot from Bolton, Cook rushed up and placed it into the net. Indeed, Bolton had proved himself to be one of the smartest forwards on the field, as Ostick could testify. The struggle continued at a ding-dong pace, with the Wanderers being the better side, a fact which was emphassed when McEwan somewhat luckily obtained a second goal. In the second half of the game, the visiting side were seen to even greater advantage. Following a corner, nicely placed by Donnachie, the veteran Taylor secured possession and equalised with a shot which the goalkeeper never seen until the ball was right on him. Everton played up in such surprising fashion, that it was distinctly hard lines when five minutes from the finish White obtained the deciding goal with a really brilliant shot. Still they did not give up hope, and just as the whistle went, Makepeace appeared bent on repeating his previous week's performance.
THE EVERTON PLAYERS.
Although the new forward line more than exceeded expectations, it was in the matter of defence that Everton excelled. Some captions critics might be inclined to blame Scott for allowing the second goal, but if he were at fault in any degree it was a very slight blemish on a really brilliant exhibition of goalkeeping. Several of his saves being exceptionally clever. Both Hill and Crelly rendered admirable assistance, but it was in the half-back line, that Everton tower of strength lay. There was little to choose between Booth, Taylor, and Makepeace. Each played up to the top of his form, and it was in the main owing to their untiring efforts that the strong Wanderers quintette were for such demon scorers comparatively ineffective. Wright in the centre forward position worked hard, but was outclassed, and by far the most successful part of the visiting attack was the right wing. Bolton in particular distinguishes himself. On the Wanderers side, White was the outstanding forward. Shepherd brings watched too closely to permit him to display his usual brilliance. There was nothing special about the defence and Davies in goal does not appear to be a very safe custodian. Teams: - Bolton Wanderers: - Davies, goal, Baverstock, and Ostick, backs, Robertson, R.Clifford, and Boyd half-backs, Stokes, Marsh, Shepherd, W.White, and McEwan, forwards. Everton: - Scott, goals, Hill, and Crelly, backs, Booth (Captain), Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Birnie, Bolton, R.Wright, Cook, and Donnachie, forwards. Referee R.J.Johns.

A NEW EVERTON FORWARD OF PROMISE
Athletic News - Monday 05 March 1906
In their search for inside right as partner to Sharp the Everton club have been fortunate in securing a player like Hugh Bolton.  Born at Port Glasgow twenty-five years ago, Hugh Bolton, when sixteen, joined the Clydeville. For season and a half he was inside-left, after which he became connected with Port Glasgow Juniors. At times he operated at centre-forward, but in the majority of games played inside-left. For four years he was attached to the Port, and was twice chosen to represent Renfrewshire against Ayrshire, and also for the Junior Scottish International team which defeated Ireland, and made a draw with England. During his stay with Port Glasgow Bolton had the satisfaction of assisting his club to win the championship of the Second Division of the Scottish League. At the close of the last season Bolton was signed by Newcastle United, and played for the champions against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on December 2.  He was of course, understudy to Howie, and when the latter resumed the following week Bolton had to retire. Then came Everton's offer for him, and though the Tynesiders were very unwilling to come to terms they eventually yielded to persuasion. By a curious coincidence, Bolton’s first appearance for Everton was against Newcastle, and he showed such capable form that his success a week later at Everton against Aston Villa was anticipated.  Had bids fair to re-establish the effinency of the right-wing, and with such a sympathetic partner as Sharp he should develop into a most useful Leaguer. Though on the small side, standing 5ft. 6ins, and weighing just over 10st..He is very adept, and possesses a capital knowledge, of the inside game.

FRIGHT FOR BOLTON WANDERERS.
Athletic News-Monday 05 March 1906
By Tityrus.
A performance of “Hamlet” without the moody Dane and the ghost —to adopt an idea from Mr. Asquith's joke in the House of Commons —would be tolerably complete compared with the constitution of the Everton eleven on Saturday. It seemed a farce for the great Goodison Park club to visit Bolton Wanderers without Sharp, Settle, Hardman, Young, Abbott, and even a Balmer—all injured and crippled. That the game was not a mere burlesque against such a dashing team as the Wanderers possess stands 5to the ever-lasting credit of Everton. Tis true the Wanderers won—but only by such margin as 3—2, and that when the forward line of the losers consisted of Donnachie, Cooke, Wright, Hugh Bolton, and Birnie. If the gentle reader rubs his eyes and wonders where this vanguard came from he will be pardoned. I was so stimulated by curiosity that I determined to go to Bolton, and see some of the rising generation—the men who are to play the game in the future. It was a novelty for me to watch a League team with six players I had never seen before, as I think I have a fairly extensive acquaintance with the footballers of the day. Right here, as our American cousins say, let me congratulate the Everton executive on the boldness of their policy and on the talent, which some of these strangers possess. With Bolton at full strength, and on their own peculiar meadow, any team which leaves that field merely a goal in arrear has earned congratulations—whatever they may be worth.
A STRENOUS STRUGGLE.
On the treacherous surface the Wanderers had rather the better of the argument, although the visitors early afforded glimpses of calculated manceurving which suggested a far better fought match than we had anticipated.  Shepherd's dash, the centres of Stokes, and the initiative of Hugh Bolton, of Everton, were the feature of their struggle.  There came a time when the Wanderers were often shooting, and at the end of thirteen minutes  they took the lead.  White passed out to Stokes, who ran a few yards, and gave the ball back to White, who scored with a swift oblique drive into the corner of the goal, where Scott was not.  “Twas a beautiful shot.  Only the grand goalkeeping of Scott prevented White, Shepherd and McEvan from proving deadly.  Despite this severe pressure Hugh Bolton and Birnie were often aggressive, and they rendered the record equal.  Wright giving to Birnie were often aggressive, and they rendered the record equal.  Wright giving to Birnie, he hugged the touchline.  His dribbling was excellent, and when he centred Davies failed to remove the danger.  As he fell near the post he just scooped the ball towards Cooke, who equalized by a shot which struck the underside of the crossbar. Thus the game stood at the end 23 minutes, and if Hugh Bolton had enjoyed the least luck he would have added a second goal, as Davies did not deal effectively with centres from Donnachie and Birne. A keener battle could not have been desired, and only five minutes before the interval did the Wanderers gain any solid advantage. Then Stokes wrested a corner kick from Makepeace. This was so neatly placed that M'Ewan took the ball on the move and forced it —literally forced it—through the hands of Scott, who nevertheless had kept a fine goal.
A DRAMATIC TERMINATION.
In the second half the Wanderers were expected by their supporters to simply annihilate their foemen. But there was no annihilation, for the Everton half-backs played a masterful game. Even when the home vanguard did break through Scott was simply splendid. On the other hand, the Everton middlemen plied their own forwards so well that Bolton Wanderers experienced much difficulty in keeping the enemy at bay. Nor did they succeed, for Wright compelled the concession of a corner-kick, from which Taylor equalized-thus emphasizing the fine work of the middlemen as this occurred 22 minutes after crossing over, the game was left in a most open state. The Wanderers found Scott in his happiest humour, and not till seven minutes from the finish was he again beaten, and then White with a glorious dribble circumvented both Hill and Crelley and won the match with a superb shot which struck the bar and bounded inwards. The goal acted like magic on the Wanderers, and Scott protected his charge again and again in final climax when he was simply bombarded with shots by White and Shepherd. For the nonce the Wanderers were overpowering Everton, but they raised the siege and were attacking vigorously when the game ceased.
BOLTON'S WAVERING DEFENCE.
This bare outline of the course of events will show that Bolton Wanderers had a terrible tussle to keep their adversaries at bay, and obtain that long looked for winning goal. Considering all the circumstances this was very fine League game, played on the whole in admirable temper and at a cracking pace, remembering the surface, for every boot required lifting. Possibly Bolton Wanderers were not at their best. The defence was faulty, and the only men I should inclined to praise were Baverstock and Clifford, who showed good judgment and much skill. Davies lacked anticipation of where danger was coming from, and therefore appeared awkward, while Ostick had not the cleanness and quickness that used to characterize him. Neither of the wing half backs played with much acumen, and Robertson appealed to me as slow to the ball and slow on it.
WALTER WHITE THE WONDER.
The home forwards were decidedly smart. "Wattie" White has one fault; he is rather short-tempered. In every other respect he is an artist, and, I should say, the supreme artist in the team, for his command of the ball is admirable, his judgment in drawing the defence and passing unrivalled, and his shooting fatal. I hear people rush into raptures about various members of the Bolton team, but the Hurlford lad is by nature strong and forcible, and by practice a cunning craftsman. I enjoyed the play of Stokes, who discarded all attempts at dribbles, and time after time he centred with unerring accuracy and discretion. There is the making of the best centre in England in Albert Shepherd, though he wants coaching by a man who knows the part of a pivot from A to Z. At present Shepherd is not a distributor or a creator of openings, but a youth of wondrous strength, and blessed with enviable speed.  He has a happy knack of hooking the ball away from backs, and bustling between them. Once he has arrived can shoot like a King’s prizeman. But he is lacking in resource, and as the game advanced he too often lost control of the ball, which enabled a back to step in and take it from his toe? Some of his single sprints for goal were thrilling. He is a most useful if unpolished player, and just the kind of dasher to turn the course of any match.
HUGH BOLTON TO THE FORE.
The Everton forwards acquitted themselves well as a body, despite the fact that Wright in the centre was slow, often offside, and generally eclipsed.  Donnachie and Cooke showed some promise, but the right wing, Bolton and Birnie, were really excellent. The great success was Hugh Bolton, who proved capital inside right.  He never ceased to perseveres, and his dribbling and passing were alike excellent.  In the first half he seemed loth to part with the ball, but afterwards he gave Birnie numerous openings, though he never changed the point of attack with a swinging drive to the left.  It is well to vary one’s game, but I have hope of Bolton making a fine player, especially as he appeared clever neat goal. 
STERLING MIDDLEMEN.
The Everton half-backs were all exceptionally able, though Taylor is apt to disregard the rules.  Makepeace was the outstanding figure in the line.  Percy Hill is a young back of parts.  At present a little amateurish, he is nevertheless fairly reliable.  Scott in goal stopped 18 shots, and his exhibition gained him generous applause.  The Irish international is particularly safe and smart in the fielding of low swift drives.  If he is as capable with high shots he must be a great custodian.  Scott can deliver a one-handed punch worthy of a first-class heavy-weigh boxer.  I saw him do it.  Bolton Wanderers;- Davies; Baverstock, Ostick; Robertson, Clifford, Boyd; Stokes, Marsh, Shepherd, White and McEwan.  Everton; Scott; Hill, Crelley; Booth, Taylor, Makepeace; Birnie, Bolton, Wright, Cooke, and Donnachie.  Referee; Mr. R.T. Johns, Hanley. 

EVERTON RESERVES 0 BOLTON WANDERERS 2
March 5 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One. (Game 28)
Saturday was a black day for Everton, for while the seniors were beaten at Bolton, the Trotters second string was beating the Reserves. Everton were however, considerably handicapped owing to the call made upon the regular to take part in the League match. A further trial was given to Bowser, at centre forward, while places were found for new players in Tomlin and Bannister. The new men did very little, however, and as a result the Everton forwards play was very poor. Only McLaughlin (whose appearances have been all too few of late) did anything worthy of mention, and the forward line below bar a great deal of work was thrown upon the defence. Bolton scored once in each half, and won by two goals to nil. The first point was luckily obtained, a shot from Napier turning off Hannan into the net out of Collins reach, but on the play the visitors were the better side, and deserved their success. Everton presented a stout defence. Collins, Wildman, and Hannan doing capital service, while Black at half back was always prominent. There was an entire absence of combination amongst the forwards, and Bowser displayed a great leniency to stick to the ball until dispossessed. Bolton have a capable side, some of the players showing very promising work. Everton: - Collins, goal, Wildman, and Hannon, backs Black, Chadwick, and Donaldson half-backs, Tomlin, McLoughlin, Bowser, Bannister, and Butler, forwards.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 06 March 1906
The march of the Cameron men was effectively checked at Goodison-park yesterday when the 1st Battalion Cheshire Regiment beat the Highlanders by a goal to nil in the fifth round of the Army Cup Competition. It was a good game, but it must be admitted that the better team on the day’s play lost. The Scotsmen rained in shots on the Cheshire keeper, but Brighouse’s armour was too strong to be pierced. He performed wonderfully in goal, and it was mainly due to his efforts that the Cheshires were enabled to enter the semi-final.
The Everton directors are not sending any of their players away for special training, the necessary preparations being made at home. Settle and the other injured players are reported to be progressing satisfactorily, and in all probability Sharp, Young, and Hardman will be able to turn out, but it is hardly likely that Settle will be able to take the field.
A match between the Northern Nomads and Manchester University will be played to-morrow at Goodison-park, the kick-off being at 3.15. George Robey, the popular comedian, will turn out for the Nomads. The teams will be;-
Nomads; E.H. Davies; R.T Wallwork, F.S Walmsley; J. Healy, S.B. Ashworth, H. Vickers; C.J. Greenwood, D.N. Gillmore, E. Mansfield, Geo. Robey, and J. Watson.
Manchester; C. W. Know; W.S. Millar, J.B. Holmes; S.J. Clegg, J. Whitehead, W.H. Wood; J.H.C. Green, F.J. Roberts, J. West, E.J. Heap, and E.A.T. Green. Referee; Mr. R.F. James.

GOOD NEWS OF AN INJURED EVERTON FORWARD
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 07 March 1906
Bee
The Everton cloud is breaking. The directors on usual held their meeting last night, and though they withheld the selection of the eleven to represent them in Saturday’s engagement with Sheffield Wednesday, they received the good news that Settle’s injury is not so serious as at first imagined, and that there was a possibility of his helping the Blues on Saturday. Settle has had the X-ray on his collar bone, which has all along been thought to be broken, and Mr. R.P. Gregson, the well-known Blackburn football official, has photographed the injury, which it is now discovered is a bad bruise. That the bone is not broken is indeed comforting news. The little inside left has had his left arm-bound up to his chest ever since the Notts County match, and naturally there is a great amount of soreness to his body. Still, the players and directors are hopeful that he will recovered sufficiently three days hence to assist Harold Hardman on the left the Blackpool amateur having overcome his leg accident. John Sharp, too, has resumed training, and is a certain starter. There has been a great demand on the tickets, both locally and from Sheffield, and from the latter quarter there will be thousands of visitors. The Wednesday club and various railway companies have written for big supplies of tickets, for which they say there has been a great demand. It is barely necessary to point out to “season” holders that “all pay” is the dictum for Saturday, but it may be explained that tickets are on sale at the club offices, and as soon as the gates are opened will be obtainable at the Bullens-road entrances to the ground.
The home club are not of opinion that training at seaside resorts is beneficial to their man, and the usual course is being gone through. On Monday, however, the men had a refresher, visiting the Stafford brine baths. Yesterday they were at the ground, sprinting and indulging in ball practice. For the time being “Jocky” Elliott acted as goalkeeper, and there was merry applause when he did manage to hold a volley which came from the foot of Robert Balmer, who was among the seventeen men in training. Judging by his occasional punts, his ankle is now strong. When Scott appeared “vice Elliott”- a change for the better!- he made some very fine one-handed saves, and his thrusting of the right hand is something wonderful.
Among the letters of correspondents are the following efforts to build the Everton team;- “Evertonian of Twenty Years’ Standing”; Makepeace as left half with the idea of watching Davis, and Taylor as centre forward. Booth being the centre half. “Toffeeite (Liscard); Play Taylor in the front line and Birnie as pivot. “Evertonian”; Black at left half and Booth at centre.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 07 March 1906
The Sheffield Wednesday team to meet Everton at Goodison-park on Saturday will probably be;- Lyall; Layton, and Burton; Ruddleston, Crawshaw, Bartlett, Davies, Chapman, Wilson, Stewart, Simpson.

EVERTON MATCHES
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 08 March 1906
Bee
To my mind, the composition of Everton will pan out after this fashion- Scott, R. Balmer (as William, his brother, is unwell), and Crelley; Makepeace, Taylor, and Booth; Sharp, Bolton, Cooke, Settle, and Hardman.
Amidst the complaining epistles comes a sympathetic note from “Nil Desperandum,” who says;- “Perhaps you could find room for a line from one who has closely followed the Everton Club for twenty years. The Cup prospects, as a result of extraordinarily bad luck, seem black, but I must decline to regard the coming Cup-tie with Sheffield Wednesday as a certain victory for the Blades, although this view seems to be taken by many of the club’s supporters. Avaunt, ye croakers! Gird up the loins and shooting boots ye Everton players, and surprise these gloomy ones with an old time victory!
Why should the Blades, who could not beat Millwall at home, and could only scramble home with Bristol Rovers succeed at Goodison Park? With best wishes to both our teams (for, though an Evertonian, I rejoice in our Anfield friends successes, and hopes of a ‘righte merrie’ meeting at ye Palace.
L.R. Roose has decided, providing his damaged finger will allow of it, to turn his attention during his fourteen days’ enforced absence from the soccer world, to try his hand with the Rugby code. He is turning out for London Welsh versus London Irish in a miniature Rugby international.
The Goodison ground has been in constant use lately, and that its turf bears the wet and cutting up studs so well is distinctly creditable to the groundsmen. On Monday the ground was in use, the Army representatives being on view before an excellent crowd, and yesterday there was another capital attendance. Unfortunately George Robey who had put off an engagement so that he might assist the Nomads had at the last moment to cry off. He has injured his leg, and will probably fore-go all other football engagements this season.
The Nomads committee wish to thank the Everton directors for the use of Goodison Park, and the Liverpool public for supporting the man well in their matches played there.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 08 March 1906
The Everton directors have not yet chosen the eleven to meet Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, but in all probability the forward line will be composed of Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman, whilst the half-backs will be the same as last week. It is also more than likely that the brothers Balmer will turn out to play in front of Scott.
Whilst the Everton League team will be struggling with Sheffield Wednesday the reserve eleven of the Blues will be engaged at Stalybridge against the Rovers. The Blues will be represented by Collins; Wildman, and Hannan; Black, Chadwick and Donaldson; Birnie, Butler (or Holmes), Quinn, Bannister, and Grundy.

PROSPECTS OF THE LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE
Liverpool Echo - Friday 09 March 1906
Bee
Everton v Sheffield Wednesday
Referee Mr. F. H. Dennis, Linesmen, Messrs N. Whittaker and J.H. Pearson.
Well it is somewhat awkward to weigh up the chances of the Gay Goodisons, for they agree as yet unable to settle on the men who shall don the blue jersey. I am informed that the definite selection will be made to-night, and though there are some seventeen names from which the chosen few will be selected, one can take it for granted that Scott will be in goal, that Taylor, Makepeace, and Booth will be in the team, that Sharp will be ready for service again, as also Hardman, and, naturally, Bolton will be among the number. Whom the remaining members will be is problematical and certainly not an enviable task awaits the directors, inasmuch as they must take into consideration that if Sharp, Settle, and Young are fit they are liable to crack up if one of the Wednesday men happened to charge them forcibly in their respective weak parts. Thus it is the selection committee will have a thankless task- if the men lose, which everyone devoutly hopes will not be the case.
I am now able to announce the benefit which is to be handed over to Tom Booth and Jocky Taylor for their faithful services. It is a record sum for the club, and speaks highly of the popularity of the pair. £802 is the total which will be divided ‘twist the pair, and cheques will be handed to them next week at a private dinner of officials and players by Mr. George Mahon. In two seasons the Everton Club has disbursed over £2,000 in benefits, and this demonstrates fully that they are desirous of doing their utmost for their players. The captain and sub-captain had the choice of any (of the matches within a certain area of course the engagement with Liverpool was barred)and once again Villa was pointed out as probably the most attractive team. Future beneficiaries must ‘ware Villa, however, as they seem to have struck a bad patch. Still I cannot let this matter pass without, on behalf of the public, offering appreciation for the officials’ generosity. I wish I was a player again!

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 09 March 1906
The poor form which the Everton team have displayed this season has led the critics to make Sheffield Wednesday favourites for to-morrow’s Cup-tie. The latter club possesses a very strong team, as was shown at Anfield a few weeks ago, and a win for them seems to be quietly anticipated. However, the Everton men will have something to say about that, and it would not be surprising if the Blues suddenly found their best form and administered the knock-out to the Wednesday in no uncertain manner. It would be highly gratifying to us in Liverpool if both the local elevens were put into the bat on Monday next for the semi-final round. The directors next for the semi-final round. The directors have not, up to the time of writing, definitely selected the team, but it may be mentioned that Settle, Young, and W. Balmer are doubtful starters.

EVERTON v.  SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 10 March 1906
ENGLISH CUP TIE.
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
EVERTON SOON AGGRESSIVE
A review of past meetings of to-day’s combatants revealed the fact that the Blades have not been successful at Goodison Park during the past fourteen years. Everton’s most recent performances, however, have been the reverse of inspiring, while the Sheffielders have done exceedingly well in their recent League engagements. Both teams were specially prepared for the important contest, and a tremendous amount of interest was centred in the meeting, both locally and in Sheffield. During the week the demand for tickets was exceedingly great, and it was reported that one railway company alone had arranged to despatch ten special trains from the cutlery town. It was consoling to the supporters of the Blues to know that most of the injured players have recovered, and that the directors would be able to place a strong eleven in the field. Sheffield were reported at full strength.  All things considered the meeting promised to prove a keen and open contest, and local partisans, while not overlooking the present excellent form of the Blades, anticipated the Blues qualifying for the penultimate stage of the competition. The morning promised well, but at noon rain began to fall, and at two o’clock it had developed into a steady drizzle. Nevertheless a steady stream of spectators struck out Everton-ward, and the ranks of the home supporters were swelled by 6,000 men from Sheffield, most of them wearing their club favours either in hat or button-hole. The Everton team was not finally selected until a few minutes before the commencement of hostilities, and the crowd, which numbered fully 20,000, were left in ignorance of the selection until the evidence of their own eyes showed them the composition of the eleven. The people were flowing into the enclosure in hundreds, and there were quite 25,000 present when the combatants faced each other in the following order.-
Everton.- Scott, goal; R. Balmer and W. Balmer, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Sheffield Wednesday.- Lyall, goal; Layton and Burton, backs; Ruddlesdin, Crawshaw, and Bartlett, half-backs; Davies, Chapman, Wilson, Stewart, and Simpson, forwards.

Referee.- Mr. F.H. Dennis.
Sheffield were the first to appear, and the number of their supporters present was obvious by the cheer that went up. These were exceeded, however, when Everton entered the arena. Booth won the toss, and Sheffield were forced to start in the teeth of a strong wind. The Evertonians at the outset made play on both wings, but without passing the backs, and the first movement of importance was on the part of Davis and Chapman. The younger Balmer checked the outside man, but the ball was swung across from the Sheffield left, and a long drive by Bartlett caused Scott to run out in order to clear. Everton were busy on the left, Hardman put in some brilliant work. He centred strongly, and Young was given a fine opening, but he was too late. Sharp, however, made ample amends for he dashed in and netted the ball just out of Lyall’s reach. This success, coming as it did after three minutes play. It was rapturously received. Still better things however, were in store for the Evertonians, for, moving down again in pretty combined order, the ball was passed back to Taylor, who took deliberate aim and scored with a swift ground shot. All this occurred in the first five minutes. The home supporters went nearly wild with delight. After these two early reverses the Blades steadied themselves, and for a time enjoyed some of the play. Although the ground was distinctly on the soft side, the pace was exceedingly fast, and some good footwork was witnessed. A temporary stoppage was caused through an injury to Makepeace, and following upon a foul by Davis young Balmer lobbed the ball just outside the net. Settle and hardman were conspicuous, but Ruddlesdin checked very finely. Everton were most persistent, and Bolton tried a shot, but was ruled offside. A magnificent breakaway by the Everton right wing ended in Sharp forcing a corner off Burton, but this came to nothing, and the next item of interest was a breakaway by the Wednesday forwards. Chapman worked his way through, and Robert Balmer in clearing touched the ball with his hands just within the prescribed area. The referee had no option but to grand a penalty and this was taken by Davis. To the great delighted of the home crowd, the light-haired Sheffielder shot straight at Scott, and the latter effected a brilliant save. After this unfortunate miss on the part of Davis the Blades took up the attack with renewed vigour, and were successful in forcing a couple of corners, which, however, brought no tangible result, and matters were not made any better for the visitors when Ruddlesdin sent a shot high over the bar. Following this there was a deal of long kicking on both sides, and generally speaking play was fairly evenly distributed. Hardman electrified the spectators by a brilliant run along the wing. He centred admirably, but Young, as usual, was at fault, and Sharp, dashing in, could not do better than shoot over the bar. The Sheffielders now began to assert themselves, and a promising movement by the three inside men looked dangerous. Scott left his goal in order to anticipate a shot from Wilson, but he had scarcely recovered his position when Simpson raced up and netted the ball. After this slight check Everton asserted themselves, but the Sheffield backs kept a fine defence, and the visitors were soon on the move towards Scott, a clever bit of combination coming to nothing through Wilson heading over the bar. Shortly after this Young had two splendid openings, but he mulled them both, and after Sharp had forced an ineffective corner a second was granted on the left. This proved of material advantage, for the ball was placed right in the goalmouth, and from the bully which ensued Bolton netted the ball and gave Everton their third goal. At this time it was raining pretty smartly, but the spectators were far too excited to take any notice of this, and the game progressed amidst a constant accompaniment of cheers and counter-cheers. a fairly long spell of midfield work was relieved by Young breaking through and putting in a swift low shot, which Lyall dealt with very dexterously. Towards the interval Everton pressed strongly, but the forwards were distinctly weak in front of goal. Sharp, however, on one occasion got away, and after cleverly outwitting the opposing half-back he passed the leather back to Booth, who put in a fast shot which Lyall handled, and to everyone’s surprise the Sheffield custodian dropped the ball, which rolled into the net. This fourth success was greeted with tremendous enthusiasm, and a minute later the interval was announced with the score;-
Half-time score; Everton 4 goals, Sheffield Wednesday 1 goal

A HARD GAME AT GOODISON
A RUNAWAY FIRST HALF
SHEFFIELDERS RALLY STRONGLY
DAVIES SCORES FROM A PENALTY
AN EXCITING FINISH
When the game was resumed the drizzle continued, and there were 25,000 spectators present. It was obvious the ground was in a sodden condition when Young led off for the Blues, and Bolton was attended to by the trainer. After the initial exchanges in midfield the Blades immediately took up the attack, and the ball was transferred to the visitors’ left where Booth intercepted and kicked into touch. The Sheffielders maintained the advanced position, and clever half-back play enabled Simpson to put in a centre, which Taylor fully accounted for. Following this the Blades bore down upon Lyall, and Makepeace served nicely to Hardman, who centred to Young. The Centre forward failed to accept the pass, but the referee made amends for Young’s short-coming, and through the former getting in the way of the leather Young obtained possession, only to finish by putting the ball yards wide of the goal. A free kick near the Everton goal was successfully negotiated, and Settle sent a long pass in the direction of Hardman who placed in the centre to Young. The centre was again at fault, and the opportunity was lost. Following this Sheffield pressed for some time, and Wilson working through passed the ball back to the half-backs. This movement seemed to bother the Balmers for a second, and Bartlett with for a second, and Bartlett with a swift low drive banged the leather into the net, quite out of Scott’s reach. It was evident from the business-like manner in which the Blades went about their work that they were inclined to upset the situation, and Bartlett’s goal was the result of strenuous and well-directed play. Everton next attacked, and Bolton and Sharp combined to some purpose, the latter finishing up the movement by sending a high dropping shot which just went over the bar. In a trice the Sheffielders were operating in front of Scott, and hesitancy on the part of the home defence looked ominous for the Blues, but fortune favoured them, and the danger was luckily removed. The Blades continued the attack and the Everton forwards were compelled to fall back to assist the defence. Sharp created a diversion and sped along with the ball at his toe, but the speedy outside man was forced to succumb to the attention of three Sheffield defenders. At this stage it was plainly obvious that the visitors were more than holding their own, and for a time the Blues were completely penned in their own quarter, Young was given a fair opportunity of distinguishing himself, but he seemed unable to accommodate himself to the situation, and Crawshaw had little difficulty in beating the Everton player. Relief came through Sharp getting nicely under way, but Bartlett got in the way and Sharp finished with an overhead kick, which went offside. Admirably served by their backs and halves, the Sheffield forwards made things exceedingly lively for the home defence, and it required all the best efforts of the brothers Balmer to stave off defeat. On one occasion Simpson threaded his way through the defence and put in a fine dropping centre, which Scott threw clear. The Irish international was only just in time, as Chapman and Davis dashed up with the apparent object of netting the ball, and great amusement was caused by the two Sheffielders falling headlong into the net. The Blades came again, and during a concerted movement on the home goal, Taylor found Wilson within the area. The dreaded penalty followed, and Davies, taking deadly aim planted the leather right into the corner of the net, Scott just touching the sphere in its flight, but he really had no possible chance of saving. The Everton defenders at this stage were guilty of great carelessness, and W. Balmer granted a very easy corner, which was fortunately cleared. In the last stages of the game the Everton forwards seemed to gain a new lease of life, and a clever combined movement ended in Hardman sending in a real beauty. Lyall was distinctly fortunate in being able to deal with this successfully. An exciting contest ended in a clever victory for the Evertonians.
Final Results; Everton 4 goals, Sheffield Wednesday 3 goals
THE GATE RECEIPTS
The gate receipts were £1,000 and the attendance 30,000.

EVERTON'S STERN STRUGGLE
Athletic News - Monday 12 March 1906
By Junius
For the second year in succession Everton have qualified for the semi-final of the Association Cup, and they certainly deserve to win the trophy. They have twice been in the Final, and last season when they were beaten at the second attempt in the penultimate round, I certainly thought that they would have gone clean through. If they do win the Cup this year it will be a great performance, for they have experienced sufficient ill-fortune to gaunt the courage of most clubs. They have been asked by the League to account for their representation at Bolton, and to those who know the condition in which I their regular players were on that date, there seems something incongruous about the action of the Management Committee. The team to oppose Sheffield Wednesday was not chosen until Friday evening, and at the last moment they had to find a substitute for Crelley, who appears to be in very poor health this winter. If they can steer clear of further injuries, I should not be surprised to find Everton not only in the Final, but winners outright, for they are likely to be seen at their best during the remaining stages of the season. But what if they meet their rivals from Anfield in the deciding round? This would cause some commotion in Liverpool.

GREAT GAME AT GOODISON
Athletic News - Monday 12 March 1906
By Junius
The tie between Everton and Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park was anticipated with mingled feelings in Liverpool, for the exact constitution of the Everton eleven was a source of much speculation.  So well have the Wednesday team been playing recently that it was admitted on all sides that even at full strength and with every man thoroughly sound Everton would have a tough task on hand. Consequently much satisfaction was evinced when it became known that the home side would be practically at full strength and the injured players able to resume, for such a consummation was at one time quits outside the range of possibility. As events turned out, the only regular member of the team unable to participate in the contest was Crelley, who up to the last moment had been considered certain starter, and the brothers Balmer were, therefore, Introduced at fullback, the younger scion of the family resuming after an absence of two months. As Sheffield were represented by their customary eleven, the rivals practically faced each other on even terms, which was certainly gratifying to all concerned. There was much curiosity felt as to the manner the Everton players would withstand such a severe task, but they quickly allayed any feelings of apprehension by the vivacious manner in which they entered into the fray.
A SENSATIONAL START
Five minutes only had elapsed before Everton were in possession of a winning lead. They were evidently imbued with the correct idea of getting their blow in first, and, not satisfied with one, they credited themselves with a couple of goals ere Sheffield had found time to gain an acquaintance with the game. Hardman was the initiator of both points, while Sharp and Taylor respectively applied the finishing touches. The extreme left winger was in his most scintillating mood, and he flashed round Layton with the greatest ease, finishing his sprint by whipping across such judiciously-aimed centres that scoring goals became almost certainty. These dual successes were sufficient to daunt the most experienced Cup-fighters, but the Wednesday team to their credit be it said, buckled to their now doubly difficult task, and proceeded to reduce the adverse margin against them.  They were awarded a penalty kick for an alleged offence of handling by “Bobby” Balmer in dealing with a centre by Davis, but the latter, who took the kick, shot straight at Scott, who diverted the course of the ball.  Wilson plied his left wing most assiduously, and at this stage the Sheffielders showed no signs of giving up the ghost. 
HARDMAN’S BRILLIANCE
They met with a stubborn resistance, however, in the Everton rear division, and Everton had better opportunities than the Owlerton brigade. Hardman was the shining light in the Everton attacking line, and his centres invariably found the visitors’ defence in a tangle. From one of these Sharp missed by inches, and at the juncture Everton were justifying their lead. Then came the first stroke of luck to Wednesday. Simpson received a long pass from the centre of the field, and, racing down, he sent in a high, dropping shot which Scott threw away, but only slightly. Wilson and the elder Balmer got mixed up, and the ball came once more to Simpson, off whom it rebounded into the net. Another movement by the Sheffield left wing almost resulted disastrously for the home team, but, Wilson headed over, after Simpson had centred perfectly. Just before the Interval Everton took matters into their own hands again, and, as usual, Hardman led the way. Down the touch-line he flashed, drove across the goal-mouth, where, after a short tussle, Bolton obtained possession, and with the utmost nonchalance, the inside-right slowly turned the ball, exactly where Lyall couldn’t reach, into the net. This was a decidedly pretty goal, simple looking, but judged most accurately. Still another onslaught by the irrepressible Hardman ensued, and this time Sharp received the centre, but tipped back to Booth, who drove strongly, and though Lyall stopped the shot, the ball twisted out of his upstretched hands into the netting. Thus Everton led by 4 goals 1, after forty-five minutes.
STUBBORN SHEFFIELDERS
The Wednesday players were thus again faced by a most difficult task, but they showed no diminution of energy, and in the second half they were slightly the better team.  Favoured with the breeze, they began to force the play, and after twelve minutes Bartlett secured the ball, and, working his way deftly past three or four opponents, he got within the twelve yards line, and sent in a shot which beat Scott all the way, this being one of the best goals of the match.  A moment later Stewart was nearly through, and realizing the fact that Sheffield intended making a desperate fight, the spectators became more keenly interested than ever.  This feeling was intensified when a second penalty was awarded the Yorkshiremen.  Davis got cleverly away, and centred in front of goal, where W. Balmer and Stewart were endeavoring to reach the leather.  The former was adjudged guilty of a back charge, and Davis made amends for his previous failure by converting the kick.  After this the play waxed more furiously than ever, and the home team appeared to me to be showing signs of relaxing their efforts.  On the other hand, the visitors exerted every ounce of energy, and one could not but sympathize with them in their valiant effort to avert defeat.  This was denied them, and as a matter of fact, in the last five minutes, Everton regained their composure and were pressing heavily when the final whistle blew.
VALOUR CONTEST
I have not witnessed this season a more determined and hardly-fought game than this Cup-tie.  Everton deserved to win if only for the brilliant manner in which they took up their chances, but on the other hand it was impossible not to admire the bull-dog pertinacity of the Wednesday team, who left the field with the knowledge that though beaten, they had fought nobly.  Nevertheless, there were weaknesses in there side which led to their ultimate downfall, and their full-backs cannot be complimented upon their display prior to the interval.  They were altogether too slow for the sprightly Everton forwards, who were nippy on the ball, and kept the defence fully extended by the manner in which they sent the leather from one wing: to the other. Later the game they were seen to better advantage, for the fearfully heavy going told its tale upon the light weights of the home side, and the more sturdily built Sheffield defenders were not so severely harassed during the latter half of the struggle. The inefficiency of the earlier ball could, however, never be obliterated, and taking the goals as they came, including that which Lyall should have saved, and the failure of Davis to register one from his first penalty kick, there still remains the solitary convincing fact that Everton totaled four to their opponents’ three. On the general nature of the play, this was an accurate reflex, and Everton deservedly qualified for the penultimate round of tie ties.
EVERTONIANS EXCELLENCIES.
With the exception of Young IN the centre, their forwards were in splendid form. As already stated, Hardman was without a superior on the field, his sparkling runs and beautifully-judged centres being the feature of a tremendously exciting match. Settle and Bolton were repeatedly in evidence with clever footwork, and they furnished their partners with ample means of showing their paces. The half-backs were likewise in rare trim. Makepeace being especially effective, and the Sheffield right was often reduced to state of helplessness by his fine tackling. Taylor worked as he always does, and his goal was splendidly obtained, while Booth was a sore stumbling block to Stewart, who looked upon in Liverpool as the most skillful of the Sheffield forwards. Further behind, the brothers Balmer kicked and tackled in their best style, while Scott kept goal valiantly, and formed the last line an exceedingly capable defence.
SHEFFIELD'S SKILL AND PERSISTENCY.
I have already intimated the source of Sheffield's weakness, and more need not be said. After the change of ends, better work was witnessed, but it was impossible to recover from the earlier failures. Lyall kept goal well, despite the fact that he allowed one shot to past him which he ought to have cleared. In the intermediate line Bartlett was the outstanding figure, his aggressive work being particularly noticeable, and the goal he scored was the result of an excellent individual effort. Crawshaw was responsible for much sound defensive play, and he was always on the alert to assist his backs by keeping a watchful eye Sharp. Ruddlesdin got through a vast amount of useful plodding, and this branch of the team could scarcely have been improved upon. Simpson, on the extreme left, was the pick the forwards, thus forming a striking coincidence with that of Everton. Wilson fed his wings very capably, and the efforts of Chapman and Stewart were checked with difficulty. One quality the forwards possess is worthy of emulation: they never ceased their endeavours till the final whistle blew, and they went through the heavy going with a vigour that showed they were well-trained for such an exacting struggle. Everton.—Scott; (W); Balmer (W.), Balmer (R.); Booth, Taylor, Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton. Young, Settle, and H. P. Hardman. Sheffield Wednesday—Lyall; Layton, Burton; Ruddlesdin,  Crawshaw, Bartlett; Davis, Chapman, Wilson, Stewart, and Simpson. Referee;  F.H.  Dennis, Middleborough.

EVERTON 4 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 3 (Fa Cup Game 55)
March 12, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
FA Cup Fourth Round.
EVERTON IN THE SEMI-FINALS
EXCITING GAME AT GOODISON-PARK.
DAVIES PENALTY MISSED
Again have Everton qualified for the semi-final round of the English Cup competition. They have done more than once but have never yet lifted the trophy, which is so insignificant, but which means so much. After the shadow of a team which represented the club the previous week at Burnden park there were all sorts of gloomy foreboding as to the outcome of Sheffield Wednesday's visit to Goodison-park in the fourth round of the cup. There were views that the Blades would have an easy victory, and evidently this was the feeling which prevailed in Sheffield, for the good people of the town invaded the city in their thousands-the estimate was at least 6,000-and apart from enjoying the fresh breeze of the Mersey they turned up in full force at the Goodison-road ground. And they did make their presence felt. They did not forget to cheer their favourites, and certainly after a bad beginning they had good cause for jubilation, for no team could have played a more plucky unhill game than did the Wednesday representatives. To be down four goals to one at half-time, and in the end to give their opponents a rare fight and to only lose by the odd goal in seven is an achievement of which any team playing away from home may well congratulate themselves.
A REPRESENTATIVE EVERTON TEAM.
It was quite a relief to the vast majority of the crowd- the attendance by the way was at least 30,000 and the receipts £1,000- when the Everton players made their appearance on the field, and it was seen that all the old hands had sufficiently recovered to be able to assume their customary positions. That they were in good form too was early evident. Did they not score a couple of goals in five minutes from the start. And was not this enough to give the victory in a cup-tie encounter to any team? Certainly it placed the Everton supporters on quite good terms with themselves. It was little Hardman who was really responsible for both the goals, for it was following capital centres of his that Sharp and then Taylor banged the ball into the net without giving Lyall the ghost of a chance of saving his charge. Naturally with such engagement Everton gave of their best, and were undoubtedly the superior side. Young Balmer was penalised for handling within the penalty area, and great was the disappointment of the Sheffield enthusiasts when Scott brilliantly saved Davies Penalty kick . still the Blades struck to their work with the utmost determination, and it was no more than they deserved when Simpson rushed the ball past Scott. But Everton too were not content to let matters rest with a lead of two goals to one, and with nearly ten minutes to go before the interval Bolton added a third goal after some thrilling exchanges following a corner. This was not all, for less than a minute before the whistle blew for the change of ends Lyall fumbled a long shot from Booth, and Everton had the commanding lead of four goals to one.
WEDNESDAY'S PLUCKY FIGHT.
If Everton had gathered in the plums during the first half there was a different tale to be told about the later stages of the game. The Evertonians failed altogether to reproduce their brilliant form of the opening half, and as a matter of fact Sheffield Wednesday had as much of the play as had previously fallen to Everton's lot. The important difference was that they were only able to add a couple of goals to their score. Barlett, who was one of the most conspicuous halves on the field, was responsible for their second goal, while the third accrued from a penalty kick given against Taylor. Davis on this occasion making no mistake with his shot. With only another goal to ensure a replay at Owlerton-park the Blades played for all they were worthy, and the Everton defence being exceedingly shaky, they almost succeeded in their efforts. Towards the end, however, Everton reasserted themselves, and apart from an obvious trip on Young which ought to have brought a penalty kick, the Wednesday goal escaped downfall in the last minutes of the game in wonderful fashion. Thus an exciting game, in which the interest was maintained to the finish, resulted in Everton's entry into the semi final by four goals to three.
THE PLAYERS.
There was a wide disparity between Everton's display in the two halves of the game. In the earlier portion they were far and away the better team, but later they failed altogether to hold the never say die representatives of the Wednesday club. In fact it was very lucky for them that their quartette of goals had been placed on the slate, and also that Davis missed the first of the two penalty kicks. Otherwise there might easily have been a visit to Owerton next Wednesday. Still all's well that ends well. Everton on the whole were the better team, although Sheffield Wednesday are entitled to every congratulation upon their meritorious efforts in playing up so strongly against great odds. Scott was safer in goal than Lyall, and the brothers Balmer were more reliable than Layton, and Burton. There was little to choose between the Everton half-backs, but unquestionably the most conspicuous forward on the field was Hardman, who had not a little to do with his side's victory. Young showed some improvement on recent displays, and with Sharp taking advantage of any openings which came his way, the inside men, Bolton and Settle, rendered valuable assistance. On the Sheffield side Simpson was probably the pick of the vanguard.

STALYBRIDGE ROVERS 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1
March 12, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 29)
Everton fulfilled their return fixture at Stylebridge Rovers. The initial game had resulted in favour of Everton by three clear goals, and on Saturday they ran their opponents to a draw each side getting a goal. It was by no means a good game. Neither side drawing much method in their attack, but the visitors was the cleverer side, and wore quite worthy of a point. further changes had been made in the forwards line, but this brought very little improvement in the way of the front rank. Still, the side improved upon their previous week's performance, and better display may be looked for. All the scoring was done in the second half. Ingdon getting though for the Rovers a thin a mantle of changing ends, and Butler making the score level. The ground was on the heavy side and all though the defenders held the upper hand.

EVERTON v  SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
Sheffield Independent - Monday 12 March 1906
WEDNESDAY DIE FIGHTING
By “Centre-Forward.”
Despite the counter-attraction of another Cup-tie the of in the city, wherein were engaged the leaders of the famous of the Southern teams, the contest between Everton and Sheffield Wednesday at Goodison Park proved the more attractive of the two great football events in Liverpool on Saturday. Indeed, the attendance and receipts were the greatest of all of the four contents of the fourth round, the takings amounting to £1027 19s., and the number of people witnessing the match being officially estimated at 30,000. This great crowd included a strong contingent of excursionists from Sheffield, who gave their heroes a rousing reception when they entered the field, were not downhearted at the terrible state of the score at half-time, and though lamenting the ultimate defeat of their favourites, were made comparatively happy by the gallant and plucky effort made in the second half to redeem the failures of the first, an effort which came very near succeeding, and in the opinion of many of those ardent followers of the Sheffield blue and white brigade deserved to succeed. However, it failed, and Everton, who started the game in great style, and scored two fine goals in the first six minutes, succeeded in gaining an honourable victory by four goals to three, and thereby securing the semi-final stage of the great national competition. What might have happened had not Scott, by a clever save, managed to stop the first of two penalty kicks which were awarded to Wednesday during the course of the game, and which Davis took with power and precision, cannot, of course, be said, but it is beyond doubt that this incident early in the first half, after the home side had obtained their two first goals, then a mistake by the Wednesday players in cessing play in order to claim a foul while on an opponent went on and scored, followed by a blunder by that usually reliable goalkeeper Lyall, were very great factors in bringing about a defeat, which all the determined efforts of the team for recovery in the later stages of the play failed to avert. Although the ground was very soft, with a greasy and slippery surface, the game was contested at a rattling pace, and was full of lively movements which kept the spectators interested right up to the last moment. It was generally voted a good game, and the Everton spectators, though rejoicing at the well won victory of their favourites, were not slow to express admiration of the splendid uphill fight which the Sheffielders made during the second half. Both teams were at full strength, and entered the field in the best of condition. The game was played by both sides with great keenness, and yet in a good sporting spirit, such fouls as occurred being almost entirely of a technical character. Below is a detailed description of the play;-
Booth winning the toss, Everton had the assistance of a fair breeze when Wilson kicked off for Wednesday. The home forwards essayed to advance, but did not get dangerous, and the Wednesday right getting away Davis centred, after a throw in from near the corner flag, and Bartlett sent in a long shot, to which, however, Scott went out and kicked away. Then Everton advanced again by smart footwork by Hardman on the left, and eventually Sharp on the other wing getting an opening drove in the ball fast, low, and from an oblique angle, beating Lyall, and scoring the first goal for Everton four minutes from the start, amidst great enthusiasm. This enthusiasm was renewed when two minutes later, following more smart work by Hardman on the left, Taylor sent in shot which again beat Lyall, despite a great effort by the goalkeeper to reach it, and the ball passing fast just inside the post, Wednesday quite unexpectedly found themselves two goals behind as the result of the first six minutes’ play. The Sheffielders were kept on the defensive, Wilson being given off-side as he tried to break away. Bolton got in a shot at the Wednesday goal, but was given off-side as Lyall saved it. Sharp forced a corner for Everton, but Young put the ball over the bar. Then Wednesday had a turn, Davis and Chapman getting away on the right, whereupon a penalty was given against R. Balmer for handling the ball. Davies took the kick, and shot hard, straight for the mark, but Scott brought off a very fine save amidst terrific applause. After this Wednesday played with increased dash, and a hot attack on the Everton goal ended in a corner, following which the defence prevailed in a lively scene in the goal mouth, Scott beating the ball back out of a scrimmage. At length the “Blades” being driven back, the Everton front line were again in evidence, and Young sent the ball just wide with a fast drive. A little later Hardman made a brilliant run on the Everton left and centred grandly almost off the line, where upon Sharp rushing up missed a glorious chance by lifting the ball over the bar, the Sheffield goal having thus a fortunate escape. The game was now being contested at a great rate. Wednesday playing up pluckily despite the influence of their disastrous start. With the game ten minutes old the Sheffielders succeeded in scoring a well-earned goal. Crawshaw passed out on the left, and Simpson racing on centred to Wilson, who, making further ground, brought out Scott, from whom the ball went out again towards Simpson, who, coming on with a rush took it off Makepeace’s toe and put it in the net amid loud cheers from the Sheffielders in the crowd. Everton rushed down in retaliation, but Lyall saved finely from Sharp. Wednesday, however, soon responded, and Simpson centring well Wilson was only just too high with a good header. After this Everton set up a strong attack and forced a corner, following which Lyall cleverly saved his goal at the expense of a second corner, but the attack being continued Bolton, with a sharp low shot, scored a third goal for Everton ten minutes before the interval. Before the ball was put in the net Lyall had been pushed in the back by an opponent as he was trying to head the ball away, and the Wednesday players foolishly stopped playing to appeal. Indeed, Crawshaw might have cleared had he not been so eager to make a claim, which the referee ignored and allowed the goal. However, the Wednesday captain was playing a great game for his side. Even play followed, but two minutes from half-time Everton succeeded in increasing their lead in a somewhat fortunate manner. Booth tried a long fast shot from half-back. Lyall seemed to have saved it all right, but somehow let the ball slip from his hands, and it fell against the upright, from the foot of which it rolled into the net. Thus at the interval Everton led by 4 goals to one, and though they certainly deserved to be ahead there had not bene so great a difference in the play as indicated by the score.
The first incident of note after the resumption was an injury to Bolton, who was accidentally kicked while on the ground. After a brief rest the Everton forward was able to resume, play being restarted by the referee throwing the ball up. The early stages of the second half were even and uneventful. The Sheffielders had now the gusty breeze behind them, but it was not strong. There was a lot of midfield manoeuvring, but neither custodian was called upon for a time. At length, however, Wednesday made a determined and clever advance, and Bartlett, with a fast low shot, reduced the balance against them, this taking place about ten minutes after change of ends. Everton replied to this by some good passing play, but Sharp finished with a screw shot just too high, and later Taylor called upon Lyall with a fast straight drive. Then at the other end Stewart nearly got through, finishing a promising advance by a shot a little wide. Later Wednesday gained a corner, but failed to break the home defence. The game was fairly even, and there were energetic rushes from end to end without either custodian being troubled. Wednesday’s attacks were the more numerous, for they had by no means given up the match as lost. One good movement ended in Chapman giving Scott a good shot to stop. The Sheffielders later forced a corner, but could not get through and then the Everton goal had a narrow escape from a capital centre by Simpson. Everton for their part, though they made many smart midfield movements, failed to trouble Lyall, for the Wednesday defence was now strong. The Sheffielders continued to play up pluckily, and Scott had to repel long shots from Bartlett and Crawshaw, while later Simpson got in a glorious centre which the Everton custodian beat away skilfully over the heads of two on-rushing forwards, who eventually found themselves on their backs in the net. Wednesday tried again. Davis racing down and centring, and with ten minutes to go a penalty was given against W. Balmer for pushing, the result of which was that Davis, who was again given the opportunity of scoring, this time shot lower than before, and beating Scott, brought Wednesday’s goal record to three against their opponents’ four. The Everton supporters had long since ceased the song of triumph wherewith they had celebrated the opening of the second half, and with a chance for the Wednesday men to draw level the crowd grew intensely excited, and cheers and shouts greeted every movement. The Sheffielders, full of hope and determination, attacked hotly and forced a corner, following which Davis was barely too high with a good shot. Tom Crawshaw was now doing the work of two men in trying to force the game, and he also once saved what looked almost like a certain increase of Everton’s score by the great style in which he checked Young as the latter came rushing onward after a splendid piece of combination by the home forward line. The Wednesday defence survived two corner kicks, and then their attack made another great effort. Simpson sped away in great style on the left and centred. Wilson had a straight and clear course for goal had he gathered the ball, but he just failed to reach it, and Taylor got it away. This was the Sheffielders’ last chance. Everton, who had shown palpable signs of fagging, pulled themselves together for a last desperate burst, but Lyall saved a beautiful shot from Hardman in brilliant style, and following a corner Taylor shot over. Then the end came with the Lancashire-menwinners of a great and exciting struggle by the odd goal in seven.
Everton were beyond doubt the smarter side during the opening half, and their forward play in the early stages was very fine, but gradually the Wednesday men found their feet, and in the second half the Sheffielders were perhaps as much the better side as the home eleven had been earlier on. Everything considered, a draw would have been a fair result of the general run of the play, and the merits of the teams, and while Everton won a clever victory the visitors were unfortunate to be beaten. As a line the Everton forwards excelled in combination, with Hardman in fine form on the left, especially during the first half, when Ruddlesdin made the mistake of allowing him too much room. Still the Wednesday attack made some capital movements after they had once settled down, Simpson shinning on the extreme left and Wilson passing out well to his wings. The Everton half-backs were a good and skilful trio, with Makepeace perhaps the pick, and the two Balmers were both strong and resourceful at back. A little uncertain at the start, Layton and Burton soon steadied down, and played a good sound game. There was no better half-back on the field than Tom Crawshaw, who worked like a lion from start to finish. The Wednesday halves as a body, however, often found the clever passing of the opposing forwards too much for them. Ruddlesdin during the first half quite failing to hold Hardman and Settle. Later on he improved, however, and after the change of ends the Sheffield middle line as a body were more like themselves with Crawshaw one of the most prominent figures on the field. Bartlett’s goal was a beauty.
Result; Everton 4 goals, Sheffield Wednesday 3 goals.
Sheffield Wednesday.- Lyall, goal; Layton and Burton, backs; Ruddlesdin, Crawshaw (captain), and Bartlett, half-backs; Davis, Chapman, Wilson, Stewart, and Simpson, forwards.
Everton.- Scott, goal; W. Balmer and R. Balmer, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Referee; Mr. F.H. Dennis. Linesmen; Messrs N. Whittaker and J.H. Pearson.

BOTH LOCAL CLUBS IN THE SEMI-FINAL
Liverpool Echo - Monday 12 March 1906
Bee
Now Everton, on Saturday, were fixed in their determination to get in the first blow. They succeeded, and to that first rasping, low drive from the nimble foot of Jack Sharp must be accredited the mainspring of victory. It wound the Blues up to boiling point, and with ringing, encouraging others to drive them on, they immediately made further inroads in Lyall’s charge. Jocky Taylor’s second piercing shot was the outcome. The excitement of the Cup was quite natural, but the 28,000 persons who witness the two early and unlooked for goals rubbed their eyes and exclaimed, “Am I dreaming?” Such goal-scoring proclivities have been almost foreign to our Goodison men this season and the change was so startling that it positively took one’s breath away. And won’t you agree with me when I say that by getting in the first blow Everton threw Layton and Burton off their ordinary cool defending style. Lyall was not without taint of showing nerves for after Bolton had, with a characteristic low place kick, planted the ball without exertion, but with infinite confidence, out of the lank custodian’s reach, Tom Booth squelched matters with a fourth. Lyall got to the ball when quite near the upright and let it curl over his hands. The home captain gasped and then smiled and the players, as in the case of Bolton, wrung his hands with excessive zeal, for this was the first occasion this season on which both the B’s had netted the ball.
Meanwhile, the Wednesday had not been out of the piece by any means. If Crawshaw had a debit of half a dozen goals his whose heartedness would have inspired the players, and shown them that the game was not won till the final whistle went. He got his men going, and Simpson, the best of the defeated attacking line on the day’s play, transferred accurately, and seeing Wilson and W. Balmer getting tangled, ran in and put the ball in the haven. It was not a brilliant goal, far from it; but there is no discrimation between the influence of a well-got and a “soft” goal. About such a goal as Simpson got one might sing in tenorisimo “A goal’s a goal for a’ that.” It spurred the Blades to sharper attacks, and “Bobby” Balmer handled the ball in the penalty margin. Davis whom one found had lost his moustache and hair “on top,” and to relate, his temper as well, marched triumphantly, with the ball in his hands, to take the penalty kick. He had not seen Scott in mid-week, as I had, else he would have known that the Irish keeper’s right arm is a trusty servant. Scott saved! Many a spectators lost his hat as a consequence! One cannot pile on the eulogy of Scott; his custodianship was brilliant, and he could not be blamed for the Wednesday’s goals, which accrued from the remarkable rally in the second moiety. He did actually touch the second penalty kick, but Davis put sting behind it, and it travelled safely in the corner.
Bartlett was the scorer of the other point, and it followed on an attractive and skilful piece of dribbling on his part, while the final shot was a scorcher.
The Blues were terribly pumped at the finish. Wednesday gave them a rare surprise show in the second half and betimes even Sharp was resourceless! Hardman, Taylor, Makepeace and Scott I single out for D.S.O’s though all the men were in fine fettle. Young’s ineptitude was not very noticeable, because the forwards played the long passing wing to wing style- none more effective play than this.
To Everton, our congratulations; to Wednesday, our sympathies, for they fought hard.
CUP DRAW
Liverpool v Everton
To be played on March 31 (kick-off 3.30) at the Aston Villa Football Club ground.
Referee, F.H. Dennis (North Ormsley). Linesmen; E. Case (Birkenhead), and N. Whittaker (London)
Newcastle or Birmingham v. Woolwich
To be played on March 31 at the Stoke ground.
Referee, F. Kirkham (Preston). Linesmen; H. Ward (Nottingham), and M.C. Frowde (Dorset).
There was always a chance of the chain of cup incidences being completed by the pairing of both our Liverpool clubs in the semi-final or final or the cup, for strangely enough the pair have been favoured by fortune in an equal measure at each successive round. Each has been drawn at home three times, and each was placed out of the hat last of the pair in the second round, and both brought over the right to play the tie before their own spectators. Now we are bound to have a trip to the Crystal Palace- either to see Liverpool or Everton. Fate has bene kind to our two local clubs again, to my mind, for those who remarked “I hope Everton and Liverpool go through to the final,” could not have considered for one moment that had they met in the final tie there must have been a team of eleven downcast players, a disappointment board of directors, and some thousands of supporters terribly disappointed. And you see these people would be returning by the excursions to the Mersey City, and would be received with cheers intended for the conquering heroes! No; it is best, I think that this acute misfortune should come about at the semi-final stage. There will be a stunning game-that follows as a matter of course. The public have not yet forgotten last years’ experience in the opening round when, at Anfield, the great rivals made a draw of it, and subsequently Everton beat the Reds by 2-1. The pair had met once before then in the competition for the “tin pot,” and then they drew at Anfield 2-2, and Liverpool won the replay by 2-0.
The public will be glad to know, however, that they are certain to have a representation in the final, and whichever way results run it is to be hoped that the Cup will be brought to Liverpool by one of our clubs for the first time in history.
The ground chosen for the great contest is that belonging to the present holders of the cup-namely, Aston Villa. It is a finely equipped ground, and will doubtless to taxed to the utmost on then 31st inst.
In the event of a drawn game Liverpool and Everton will replay at Bolton.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 12 March 1906
The fourth round of the most popular of all football competitions is over, and we on the side of the Mersey have the honour of nominating two of the last four competitors. Could anything be more gratifying to local enthusiasts? If we cannot win the cup this year with two such teams as Everton and Liverpool in the semi-final-well, we can almost give up hope of the pot ever finding a resting place in our midst.
Our teams, it is true, have yet to reach the Palace, but there are high hopes that one, if not both, will step on to the greensward beside the big “glass house” on April 21.” We are certain of a representative in the final if Everton and Liverpool are drawn together in the next round, and if not, there is a possibility of both meeting in the final- on the other hand there is also the possibility of both our Reds and Blues receiving the “knock-out,” on the 31st of the present month! There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth if this latter “possibility” comes off. But at present Liverpudlians and Evertonians are highly delighted, so let us to the triumphs of Saturday!
With Everton supporters at Goodison-park hardly daring to predict a victory for their favourites before the game started, it was indeed the sensation of a sensational season when, after five minutes’ play, the Blues were seen to be two goals up. It was a starter, and it looked as though the game was as good as over. The majority of the spectators went wild with delight, and we should think that many either lost their hats altogether or they -the hats, not the spectators-were greatly damaged. More sensations were to follow, however, and with Everton having the assistance of the wind, and making good use of it, four goals to one was the score at the interval in their favour. This looked good enough for an easy victory.
The second “45” however, was seen in a different light, and this half the visitors had the wind in their favour, and they kept pegging away in the hope of getting on level terms. They nearly succeeded in doing so, too, but the Everton defenders played splendidly, and although the visitors got two more goals, one from a penalty, the Blues succeeded in holding the lead top the finish. It was a most exciting match altogether, and in the second half the Wednesday played admirably. They must be congratulated for playing such a good uphill fight. Evertonians breathed more freely when the final whistle blew than they had done for at least half an hour previously. But all’s well that ends well, and the next great question is, which team have the Blues to encounter in the semi-final?
The whole of the Everton players did well. Unquestionably the most conspicuous forward on the field was Hardman, who had not a little to do with his side’s victory. Young showed some improvement on recent displays, and with Sharp taking advantage of any openings which came his way, the inside men, Bolton and Settle, rendered valuable assistance. On the Sheffield side Simpson was probably the pick of the vanguard.
DRAW FOR SEMI-FINAL
The draw for the semi-final of the English Cup, to be played on Saturday, March 31st, took place this afternoon, resulting as follows;-
Everton v Liverpool
Woolwich Arsenal v Birmingham or Newcastle United
The match Liverpool v. Everton is to be played on the Aston Villa ground. Referee; F.H. Dennis, of North Ormsby. Linesmen; E. Case, Birkenhead, and N. Whittaker, London.
In the event of a drawn game, Liverpool v. Everton will be replayed at Bolton.
The result of the draw will be somewhat of a disappointment to followers of the game in Liverpool. As matters were shaping there seemed quite a possibility that our two local premier teams would fight the battle of the cup at the Crystal palace, thus making a unique record in football annuals. This is now rendered impossible by to-day’s draw. There is one consolation, however, that will be seized upon at once. It is now inevitable that one of our local teams will figure in the final. The meeting of Everton and Liverpool at this stage of the competition is, of course, quite unique, and will be an event surpassing in interest any previous conflict between the clubs.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 13 March 1906
Opinions vary very considerably apparently about the pairing of the two Liverpool clubs in the last but one stage of the Cup. Many say “Should have liked to see the Red and Blue in contest at the Crystal Palace,” while others suggest that such an extraordinary final tie would be certain to affect the nerves of the players, and would not tend to real football, but a scrambling kick and rush. But as I said in last night’s late editions I can imagine few things more distressing than for the two locals to go to the Palace and the return journey to be made by rival spectators, players, and officials, some full to overflowing with delight, others downcast because their favourites had gone down. As one or the other was bound to go I said, “Let it before the final.” Of course, Dame Fortune, in pairing the two, has made us certain of one of our representatives paying a visit to the big glasshouse, and, let is not forget, there was just a possibility that had the fickle, frolicsome dame drawn the clubs in other fashion that we might not have needed to charter one saloon for the final! And how cruel that would have been after Everton had, to our way of thinking, laid themselves out to bring the Cup to Liverpool for the first time on record, and their neighbours been prospecting on the dual trophies being put on the Anfield sideboard!
This is the third time in a F.A tie that the teams have met in combat. In 1902 and again last year, they were drawn to play at Anfield. Each time the result was a draw. In the replays Liverpool won in 1902 by 2 goals to nil, and in 1905 Everton won by 2 goals to 1. It is a long journey on which to send supporters of the sides to witness a semi-final tie, with the certainty that one of the teams will fight the final issue at the Crystal Palace, and so make a second trip a necessity; and as a correspondent points out, it means that two mornings’ work will be lost to the enthusiasts who wish to see both games, and while the second is under the circumstances necessary, the first might have been avoided by playing at Bolton. Had Burden been selected, a morning’s work might have been saved for many hundreds.
Burden is not to my mind a suitable ground. It would not hold the crowd which would want to gather, and I do detest an arrangement which allows a man to pay railway fares and then be unable to see the sport which caused him to make the journey. The Villa ground is an excellent trim considering the hard wear it has had. Now that the track is fully utilised the actual accommodation must be for 60,000. Those who gain admission must have a perfect view of the game.

BEE’S NOTES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 14 March 1906
Letters received;-
“I must at once register my emphatic protest against the decision of the Football Association in ordering the semi-final to be played at the Aston Villa ground. Could not it have taken place at Manchester or Bolton, which are a thousand times more convenient to Liverpool than far off Birmingham, not to mention the early time of starting and the difference in railway fares? A gigantic protest must be got up, with a view of pointing out to the Association the bitter feeling which exists, and asking them to reconsider their decision in favour of one of the grounds named above.- Paddy.”
I had a chat with an Everton authority to-day, and he did not quarrel with the Football Association for apportioning a visit to Birmingham for the semi-final. In fact when he had the draw made known to him, and was waiting for the announcement of the ground chosen, he forecasted Villa’s ground, “I could not see where else they could send us,” he said, because, looking at the League programme, I found that Blackburn Rovers were at home to Sheffield Wednesday, Bolton to Manchester City, and Notts County to Middlesbrough, while Preston and Derby would be totally inadequate to accommodate the thousands who will gather on the 31st.”
Everton hope to fix up their match with Woolwich Arsenal for next Wednesday. The team to go to Blackburn on Saturday includes Crelley for Robert Balmer as the latter’s ankle gave way on Saturday. It is only a minor injury, and will probably be righted in a week or so. Black is on reserve.
Tom Booth and Jack Taylor were proud men last night. They and all the other players of the club dined at the Bee Hotel with the officials, and the captain and sub-captain each had cheques for £400 19s 1d presented to them. I shall know now where I can borrow the price of a shave. After the feast of good things they all went to the Shakespeare Theatre, and, strange to relate, the Liverpool players were also there.
   “Oxford and Cambridge” contributes the following;- What or it! Everton versus Liverpool in the semi-final, reads well on paper. Everton as the winners of the English Cup and Liverpool as League Champions will read still better. Your correspondent has already consulted with the occult question, and is assured that the final will be between the Blues and the Reds, and that the latter will have a fit or the blues after the former have tested first blood. From this tour correspondent defences that Everton and Arsenal will contest the final at the Crystal Palace. If yes don’t believe this, just come and inspect the crystal globe with its incidentals. By the way, the incidentals consist of a crowbar, a jar of Elliott’s embrocation, eleven sticks of Everton toffee, and a home trainer. Of course, Everton are having all the luck is the Cup-ties. But what team ever was the Cup without the fickle goddess on their side! She must mow be wooing the Toffeeites. But, stay, in there a single man in the team?
“Echo” answers “Yes” The goddess has set eyes at Harold Hardman. He is to be the next amateur to gain a final medal.
Dominion Stevedores play Liverpool Post Office in the semi-final of the Thursday Cup, on Thursday next, at Goodison Park (kindly lent by the Everton F.C directors). The kick-off is fixed for 3.30 p.m. and extra time will be played, of necessary.

SCRAPS OF SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 14 March 1906
The directors of the Everton Football Club entertained the players to dinner at the Bee Hotel last evening, the main object being the presentation to Taylor and Booth of the proceeds of their benefit match. These popular players were each handed a cheque of the value of £400 19s 1d. each, so that it will be seen that “Jock” and Tom have had a very successful match-lucky men. After dinner the players adjourned to the Shakespeare Theatre, where curiously enough, they encountered the Liverpool players, who were also enjoying the pantomime of “The Babes in the Wood.”
Owing to R. Balmer and Booth being injured last Saturday one or two changes will be made in the team to meet Blackburn Rovers next Saturday. It is doubtful whether the captain will be able to play, but R. Balmer will not be able to turn out. Crelly will take the younger Balmer’s place, and in the event of Booth being forced to stand down Black will take the skipper’s place. With these exceptions the team will be the same as last week.
ENGLAND v  SCOTLAND
(Inter-League)
The League Committee met at Newcastle-on-Tyne this afternoon, and selected the following eleven to oppose the Scottish League at Chelsea on March 24th;- Ashcroft (Woolwich Arsenal), goal; Glover (Birmingham), and Burgess (Manchester City), backs; Warren (Derby County), Veitch (Newcastle United, captain), and Bradley (Liverpool), half-backs; Bond (Preston North End), Common (Middlesbro), Shepherd (Bolton Wanderers), Bache (Aston Villa), and Conlin (Bradford City), forwards, Reserve; Makepeace (Everton). Linesmen; Dr. J.C. Baxter.

EVERTON’S REARRANGED DATES
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 15 March 1906
Bee
Everton have rearranged their League match with Woolwich Arsenal, which should have been decided on March 10. It will be played on Wednesday next, the 21st inst, the kick-off being timed for five o’clock, I take it, therefore that the Northern Nomads-Liverpool University match will be played on some other ground.
The fixture with Stoke, postponed from February 24, has not yet been definitely fixed up.

FOOTBALL FEATURES
Liverpool Echo - Friday 16 March 1906
Bee
There is just a passing interest in Everton’s visit to the erratic Blackburn Rovers. It was on November 11 that the latter went to Goodison to be beaten by 3 goals to 2 after a very fine exhibition, and now that the Everton health bill is being narrowed down, we may reasonably trust to see their men figuring on the right side. There’s no doubt that the excellent endeavours of the Reserves’ vanguard at Bolton put new hopes in the men who follow Everton. A defeat to-morrow would not dishearten them in the slightest. In racy parlance the Cup is the event in which Everton are “expected.”
Incidentally I fancy a football incident of the Robey benefit has been generally unknown by the public. Last Friday the “international team provider,” George Robey, was presented with a beautiful gold medal, the inscription of which bore testimony to his energy and success for charity, and his wife was presented with a gold-mounted umbrella. These were the gifts of the Everton and Robey team players who met in friendly contest the other Wednesday.
T.K.H. writes;-
Your correspondent “Paddy” complains of “our” semi-final being relegated to Birmingham, comparing such grounds as Bolton and Manchester possess. As his experience is evidently limited, may I assure him and his friends that neither ground at Manchester is suitable, and Bolton also has its negative qualities. Birmingham is reached in a comparatively short time (2 ½ hours), and half day trips usually cost 3s 3d, the full day 5s 6d. personally I am satisfied and can look forward to the match knowing the journey will be comfortable and the view at Villa Park a good one.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 16 March 1906
Everton pay a visit to Blackburn, where the Rovers and the Blues cam be depended on to give a good exhibition of the dribbling code. Everton and the Rovers have, of course, no chance of attaining the league championship or of being degraded, but still a win for Everton would be greatly appreciated in this district.

BLACKBURN v  EVERTON
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 17 March 1906
ANOTHER HOME DEFEAT
BAD SHOOTING COSTS THE ROVERS THE GAME
By “Ilex.”
The Rovers re-appeared at Ewood Park this afternoon, after indulging in special training at Blackpool, brought about, no doubt, by the reverse inflicted upon them by Sunderland at Ewood Park a fortnight ago. Last Saturday they were disappointed through Birmingham taking part in an English Cup-tie, and the visitors of to-day were Everton, who in the past have played several close games with the Blue and Whites. Out of 35 meetings between the two clubs each has won 14, ten of which have been gained on their own respective enclosures, and four games on foreign soil. The Rovers have only lost a point on three occasions, whilst at Everton a division of the spoils has taken place on four occasions. The evenness was also noticeable in the matter of goals for against the Rovers’ 62 goals Everton have obtained 61.
The Blue and Whites had to make considerable changes in the attacking line for to-day’s match in view of the serious injuries to Davis, who is scarcely likely to be of much assistance this season, and of Manson, who was not picked for to-day. Thus Robertson was transferred to his old position at inside right; Bowman, the Rovers’ great shot, who by the way, come from Everton, appeared at centre forward, and the amateur Burton, who was tried in the reserve last week, partnered Chadwick on the left. In the half-back line Wilson was left out, and Wolstenholme was put centre half, and Smith took his place at right half. Everton had to substitute Cook for Settle at inside left, whilst an absentee from the half-back line was Tom Booth, the ex-Rover, whose place was taken by Black. Teams;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelley, backs; Black, Taylor (captain), and Makepeace, half-backs; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Cook, and H.P. Hardman.
Rovers;.- Evans, goal; Crompton and Cowell, backs; Smith, Wolstenholme, and Bradshaw, half-backs; Whittaker, Robertson, Bowman, Burton, and Chadwick, forwards. Referee; Mr. T. Kirkham.
There were about 10,000 spectators, and the Rovers lost the toss, Bowman having to kick off against a strong wind towards the Darwen goal. Notwithstanding the disadvantage under which they were playing, the Rovers at once pressed and Chadwick sent right across. Whittaker also centred well, and Bowman shot with his usual speed, but unfortunately the ball struck an opponent. Everton got away on the right, and after a nice piece of passing Sharpe spoiled a chance by getting offside. The Rovers, however, kept up the pressure, and with a good opportunity from a nice centre by Chadwick, who had been fed by Burton. Bowman shot wide. In the next few minutes Chadwick landed the ball first on top of the net and subsequently the Rovers again headed the ball over. Scott shot well, and then Bowman shot well. A corner was forced on the left, but was successfully saved, at being difficult to judge the player who kicked owing to the strong wind. Everton managed to get down on the left, and Evans successfully negotiated a well-placed centre from Hardman, but the aggressive work went in favour of the Rovers, who, however, did not make the best use of their chances. A free kick from a foul at about 40 yards range was given against Everton, and Crompton struck the upright. Robertson was quick to gain possession on the rebound, but he made bad use of the opportunity presented to him. The Rovers were having much the better of the play, but were still unable to score. They continued the pressure, but were driven back, and Evans saved well at the other end. The right wing pair of the Rovers made fine progress, but Crelley cleared in nice style. When Hardman secured possession he got going finely, but Young was given offside, and play was transferred. From the free kick, Whittaker centred in a beautiful manner. Then Everton broke away, and Cook scored with a fine shot-the first goal of the match-at the end of 25 minutes’ play. The Rovers, however, were not disheartened, and they dashed upon the field. From a pass, Robertson caught the ball. Although he was some yards from the Everton citadel and had three or four opponents to face, he made straight for goal, and, eluding Black and Balmer, he sent the ball past Scott, amidst the cheers of the spectators. Play now became somewhat even, though the Rovers made several nice combined movements in their opponents’ quarters. Chadwick, just before the interval, got in a particularly fine centre, and Robertson and Whittaker both rushed to convert. Robertson was first on the ball, but as Scott had left his charge to meet him the ball glided off the custodian over the goal line on the wrong side of the post. The corner proved fruitless and the teams returned to the centre. Nothing further worthy of reference occurred before the interval.
Half-time- Rovers 1 Everton 1
On resumption Everton were the first to attack, but were promptly repulsed, a pretty run down by Burton and Chadwick ending in Bowman sending in a shot which Scott cleverly saved. When Sharpe was making fine headway to the other end on the Everton right wing he came into series collision with Cowell, but the Rovers’ back cleared in admirable style. Shortly afterwards Cowell again collided with one of the Everton forwards, and his injuries necessitated his being carried off the field. He was only off for a short time, but during his absence a reshuffling of the team was necessary. Wolstenholme taking his place, whilst Robertson took up the centre half position. Play ruled evenly for some time, and there was little of an exciting character until Whittaker dashed down in splendid style only to be pulled up close to the Everton line by Crelley. Against the Rovers come, and Robertson sent in a low daisy-cutter, which Scott saved with the tips of his fingers at the expense of a fruitless corner. Everton wakened up somewhat, and they fairly tested the Rovers’ defence, but Crompton and Cowell were sound, and time after time the efforts of Hardman, Cook, and Sharp were frustrated. Players on both sides were beginning to feel the effect of the pace at which the game had been fought, and the play became of a considerably slower order. Bowman got going and a free kick taken by Crompton gave Whittaker a good chance of centring, but when well placed in front of goal shot past. Another severe onslaught on the Everton goal was made, and Scott had to rush out to clear, and with the whole of the Rovers’ forward line in front of the goal the downfall of the charged seemed imminent. After several attempts, Bowman, from an awkward position, eventually got the ball on the wrong side of the post. Play continued in front of the Everton goal, but the shooting of the Rovers did not come up to expectation. A shot from Whittaker only just grazed the cross-bar, after Bowman and Robertson had made unsuccessful attempts to make use of Chadwick’s centre. Altogether the Rovers’ shooting had been particularly weak. At the other end, where the ball had been sent out to Sharpe, he raced towards Evans at a terrific pace, passing Bradshaw and Cowell by yards, Crompton, however, crossed over at just as great a speed, and literally took the ball from the foot of the outside right, whereupon another unsuccessful visit was paid to Scott. At last Everton got the lead. By a swinging movement down the field, even though Cowell made a temporary clearance. Everton made headway, and Evans was beaten by Bolton with a shot from ten yards’ range. This was at the end of about thirty-seven minutes’ play in the second half. In the closing stages of the game play remained in midfield, and no serious onslaught were made on either goal. The bad shooting of the Rovers did not raise any hopes of them getting on level terms, and the end came with another home defeat for the Rovers.
Result- Everton 2 Rovers 1

EVERTON’S EXCELLENT PROGRESS
Athletic News - Monday 19 March 1906
By Junius
By their success at Blackburn, Everton simply emphasized the regaining of their form, and the team are beginning to feel that confidence which is produced by a series of victories.  That their display against Sheffield Wednesday was not a mere flash in the pan has been demonstrated by their recent league triumph, for they had not won a match away since December 2 prior to this. They seem unable to steer clear of injuries, and the grueling received in the Cup-tie last week accounted for the absence of three of that eleven at Blackburn.  A busy week is in store for them, for on Wednesday the postponed League fixture with Woolwich Arsenal will be played at Goodison Park, and the time of kick-off has been made five o'clock. Seeing that the two clubs are semi-finalists, this match should prove a great attraction, for it might prove a rehearsal for the Final Tie at the Palace! Everton have only three League games to play away from home, and it is highly probable that they will, even after their unfortunate season, finish in a prominent position. There is no mention of special training away from Liverpool by either of our two clubs, and I am pleased to see that they have arrived at such a sensible course.
EVERTON'S RESERVES BEATEN
A poor game was witnessed at Goodison Park between Everton reserves and Darwen, the visitors winning by two goals to one.  Crook scored a couple of goals for Darwen before the interval, while Grundy added one for Everton.  Nothing was registered during the second period, and as a matter of fact-McLaughlin strove hard to change the fortunes of his side, but this proved fruitless.  Depledge, the new custodian, was of little use and the half-backs were seldom in evidence.  At one time there seemed a chance of Everton securing first place in the Lancashire Combination, but this possibility has now utterly vanished.  

EVERTON EXCEL AT EWOOD.
Athletic News - Monday 19 March 1906
BY Quiz
The game between the Rovers and Everton at Blackburn must rank as one of the tamest and feeblest which the two have contested at Ewood Park. There were changes in both teams, a new Rover being seen inside left in Burton, an amateur from Grangetown.
FIRST BLOOD TO THE "BLUES"
The Rovers opened strongly, but not many minutes had elapsed before they began to show their weakness in front of goal. Early on Whittaker managed to outwit Crelley, and, centring at the right moment, Burton had a fine opportunity of scoring his first goal in League football. But he trapped the ball badly, and, moreover, did not use the greatest expedition, with the result that Balmer nipped in. Bowman was working for goal when he brought down Crelley, and from the free kick Crompton sent the ball at terrific speed against the post. Robertson secured the leather from the rebound, and the hopes of the home spectators were raised, but in vain, for he put tamely wide. And thus chance number two went begging. But at length we had a sample of how the thing should be done. Whittaker middled with judgment and accuracy, and Bowman without hesitancy tried his luck with a lightning shot. Scott was on the alert, and by a superhuman effort got his hand to the ball at the base of the left post and succeeded in saving the situation at the expense of a corner. The Everton forwards had been unable to get going, but now they managed to elude the home half-backs, who were playing a hard game. There was a warm tussle in the vicinity of Evans, who doubtless heaved a sigh of relief when Young ended the tension by heading high over the bar. Everton's next visit to the Rovers’ quarters came at the end of twenty-five minutes’ play, and they met with success, for Sharp, having dropped the leather well in front. Young was quick enough to seize on to it first, and, with a low, quick shot well out of the reach Evans, he scored. There was not long to wait before the Rovers got on terms. During a scrimmage in the Everton quarters Robertson broke through and driving hard and straight the ball caught Scott fair and square on the chest. He made a desperate attempt to clasp it, but he failed and it rolled into the net. And so matters stood at half time.
HAROLD HARDMAN AGAIN TO THE FORE
Hardly had the second half got property under weigh than Cowell and Bolton collided.  The latter quickly recovered, but the little Rover had to be carried off the field. It looked as if for the third home match in succession the Rovers would have to finish with ten men, but ten minutes later Cowell reappeared apparently fully restored. The story of the rest of the game soon told. It consisted for the most part in the Rovers making many attacks, but failing to propel the ball between the posts. Occasionally first Sharp and then Hardman initiated incursions, but Crompton and Cowell were equal to all demands. That is, except in one particular instance, when Hardman, eluding Smith, broke away at rare pace. Crompton essayed to stay his progress, but the Evertonian centred and Bolton, Iying In readiness, steered the ball into the net some ten minutes from the end. There was sufficient time for the Rovers to have recovered themselves and perhaps to have won had the forwards been playing a strong game, but their feebleness in front goal made this impossible, and in the end they had to accept yet another reverse on their own ground.
WHERE THE ROVERS FAILED
Everton may be considered somewhat fortunate. They had to keep on the defensive much more than their opponents, but on the other hand they were wise enough to make good use of their chances, and that what the Rovers could not do. And after all, it is the scoring which wins matches. Moral victories as represented by a team having more of the attack than their opponents and yet losing are poor consolation. The Rovers’ defence was not to blame. Evans and his backs performed exceedingly well, and the half-backs, too, filled their parts creditably. The forwards alone were responsible for the non-success of the team. They were terribly weak in from of goal, not only in shooting, but in smartness, decision, and intelligence. Like the Rovers, Everton were best represented by their defence. Scott had very little to do. Balmer and Crelley covering him well. Makepeace was particularly conspicuous among the half , and forward Hardman, Young, and Bolton were the best of a very moderate line. Blackburn Rovers; Evans; Crompton, Cowell; Smith, Wolstenholmes, Bradshaw; Whittaker, Robertson, Bowman, Burton and Chadwick.  Everton; Scott; Balmer (W.), Crelley; Black, Taylor, Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Cooke, and H.P. Hardman.  Referee T. Kirkham, Burslem. 

BLACKBURN ROVERS 1 EVERTON 2
March 19, 1906. The Liverpool Courier
EVERTON LUCKY.
OUTPLAYED, BUT SUCCESSFUL.
If ever a team was lucky in acquiring both points this certainly was the case with Everton on Saturday. On the face of it a victory at Ewood park of two goals to one looks capital performance, but no one who witnessed the game could maintain that the result in any way reflected the run of the play. For the greater part of the game the Rovers were simply all over the Evertonians and had chances galore to score. That they did no tarail themselves of the opportunities was of course their own fault. On the other hand, Everton did turn two chances to good account, and the consequence was that, although outplayed they were returned the victors of a match in which the quality of the football rarely sustained a high standard. It was an exceedingly lucky win, and enthusiasts of the club may well regard this as a happy omen in connection with the great cup semi-final, which is rapidly approaching.
CHANCES. LOST.
Not until the team arrived in Birmingham was the constitution on the Everton from line definitely settled. It was known that R.Balmer and Booth would be a absentee, but there was a doubt as to whether Settle would be able to fill his customary position. Eventably, in view of his injured shoulder, it was decided to afford him a rest, and to give another trial to Cooke, the Seacombe recruit. In delightful weather and on splendid turf one expected from much old rivals as Everton and the Rovers a fine exhibition of football. Probably the crosswind had not a little to do with the lack of methods observable, but the game had not progressed long before it was evident that Everton were not in their Sheffield Wednesday Cup fighting form. Indeed for a long time their forwards could make no headway at all, and when with a surprise shot Cooke opening the scoring, the spectators could hardly tumble to the situation that the home side were a goal down. It was not very long before the interval and the Rovers equalised, and certainly on the play they got no more than their deserved. The second half was practically a replica of the first. The Rovers enjoyed bulk of the attack, but failed masterably in front of goal, which from a breakaway on the part of Hardman. Hardman. Bolton enabled Everton to obtain the victory in a match, which proved that after all the better side does not always win.
THE PLAYERS.
As will be gathered from the foregning remarks, the game was by no means of a brilliant order; yet at times there was some splendid individual work, with was really over looked in consequence of glaring ineffectiveness in front of goal. Sharp was quite overshadowed by Cowell, and the best forwards on the Everton side were Hardman and Bolton. Young was in a hesitating mood and on one occasion he mulled a fine opening, but he has this satisfaction that he was not the only culprit in this respect. Makepeace was the shinning light among the halves, and considering the pressure, to which they were subjected, it was a feature in the caps of Scott, Balmer and Crelly that only one goal fell to the lot of Rovers. The opposing forwards, it is true did not improve obvious chance but that is their own luck out. After all, considering the number of injured players on Everton's list this season, it is true they had some luck. Teams: - Blacburn Rovers: - Robertson, goal, Crompton, and Cowell, backs Wolstenholmes Berchall, Chadwick, Whittaker, Robertson, Davis and Bowman forwards. Everton: - Scott goals, W.Balmer, and Crelly backs, Black, Taylor (Captain), and Makepeace, half-backs, Sharp, Bolton, Young, Cook, and Hardman forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 1 DARWEN 2
March 19 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 30)
Everton who have not won a match since January 20, sustained another reverse at Goodison-park on Saturday. When Darwen beat them by the odd goal of three. Everton were not at full strength, and gave trials to two new players, a goalkeeper and a half-back, but the great weakness was among the forwards. Darwen are a well-balanced side, and are making a bold fight for championship honour, but Everton should have held their own. During the first half Everton made many mistakes, and but for weakness near goal they would have crossed over on level terms. Darwen, on the other hand, were always dangerous near goal, and it was only sound back play on the part of Hill that kept out the East Lancashire men. However, Crook scored after Depledge, the Everton goalkeeper, had failed to fist away from Booth's centre, and later the same player put on another goal. Everton afterwards improved somewhat, and shortly before the interval Grundy reduced the visitors lead. In the second half Darwen had the best of the earlier stages, but Hill kicked and tackled finely. He also made the two best attempts at scoring during this half. Lill saving in fine style. Everton tried hard to get level in the closing stages, but the effort came too late, and the visitors won as stated. Everton lost the game through their weakness close at goal for of the forwards only McNaugton and Grundy did themselves justice. Chadwick was the best of the halves. Frith, a new comer being rather slow. Hill gave a splendid display at full back, while Depledge showed promising form. Darwen had a sound defence, and Crook and Cate, on the right wing were clever forwards. Everton: - Deledge, goal, Hill, and Wright, backs, Frith, Chadwick, and Donaldson half-backs, Birnie, Butler, Bannister, Bowser, and Grundy forwards .

WINNING MOOD
Liverpool Echo - Monday 19 March 1906
Bee
What you say of Everton? Upon my word, they exceeded all expectations. Fortunate? Yes, they were; and “wet or it?” it is distinctly to their credit to have taken the chances coming their way, and you cannot blame them for their opponents’ miserable ineptitude when in front of Scott. I take the victory as it stands; two points have been culled from very strong rivals, and as it is the first win away this year I shout, Bravo!
The last time the Blues made a journey for two points successfully was as far back as December 2, when the Wolves were moved to tears by a 5-2 defeat. There is a revival in Everton, and we rejoice. Crelley and Black were reintroduced, and Settle was rested, thus giving Cooke yet another opportunity. The Rovers also experimented and Burton was the weakest of the attacking line, which could do nothing right in front of goal. They fritted away chance after chances, and after twenty minutes’ defensive work the visitors succeeded in changing the scene of action. The Blues were nothing like so dilatory as their opponents, and a neat bit of passing terminated in Cooke nipping in between the backs and scoring with a swift low shot. Robertson was the operator who drew level and when the greatest pressure was put on the visitors’ defence a sprint by Harold Hardman led to a cross pass and Bolton placed in accurately. For the second week the Blackpool wonder was the best of the quintet. While he has come to the front, John Sharp has dropped back a bit. Doubtless he will revive for the Cup ties. Taylor did yeoman service, and Makepeace was most effective and the defence was secure.
The victory makes the match of Wednesday night all the more interesting. The Arsenal visit Goodison Park, there to meet Everton in the first of their six remaining away League games, and a much better show than they gave on Saturday against Derby will have to be made if Woolwich intend to win. The Woolwich players will journey to Liverpool to-morrow in division-Sharp and Templeton from Glasgow, where they are to-day assisting the Anglo-Scots;- Ashcroft and Coleman from Cardiff, following to-day’s international game; and the rest from Woolwich.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 19 March 1906
Everton is this season in the semi-final of the cup for the fifth time, and Liverpool for the third.
Dr. J.C. Baxter, who will be the English linesman at Chelsea on the occasion of the international League match, is the only medical man now officiating.
Everton though having by far the worst of the play, luckily scored a goal more than Blackburn Rovers, and came away, so might naturally be expected, hugely delighted with themselves. Everton were decidedly lucky to gain both points at Ewood-park. For the greater part of the game the Rovers were all over the Evertonians, and had many chances of scoring, but the shooting of the home team was very weak. Of course, the fact that the Rovers did not avail themselves of the opportunities afforded was not Everton’s fault, and, therefore, the Rovers had themselves to blame for the defeat. On the other hand, Everton turned two chances to account, and thus gained the verdict in a moderate game. Once in a way Sharp was quite overshadowed, Cowell looking after him “like a policeman.”

FOOTBALL CHIT-CHAT
Liverpool Echo - Tuesday 20 March 1906
Bee
Their team is not definitely settled; no more is Everton’s which contests with Woolwich Arsenal at Goodison. The Blues are bound to have a big support, because they have inspired hope in their supporters by their capital play of the last few weeks, and the kick-off (five o’clock) will not necessitate the manufacture of an excuse for leaving work earlier than usual. Unfortunately, but not unexpectedly, for Everton have not let a week go by without announcing some injury to or illness of a player, I fear the composition of the front rank will have to be changed once again.
One of my readers, “Tired of Waiting,” writes;- “I should like, through your valuable paper, to express my thoughts. I find they are the thoughts of a considerable number of the followers of the Everton Football Club, and concern the alluring of a capable centre forward. The directors say they are willing to pay a good sum for capable men, but cannot get them. How is it that other clubs can get the transfers of first-class men? Within the last few days such men as Paton, Bloomer and Brawn have been signed on. Men can be got if you like to look for them and pay the price. It is no use the Everton directors making excuses, and I think, considering the support the club gets from its followers, it is the directors’ duty to provide a team worthy of the club.”
I can only reply to my “tired” correspondent that he will probably have little longer to wait.
On the vexed question of a pivot. “Hovlakian,” says;- Many thanks for your bright and interesting notes during mid-week re our local First league clubs. One is delighted to see the excellent position of both teams, and especially Everton’s return to form. But the one annoying thing to my mind (and I might say it has now become monotonous) is the phrase so often used in the reports “that a splendid chance was nullified by Young,” or that “ an excellent centre was made by one of the wing men, but Young was too slow to turn it to account.” Now, sir why do the officials play him under the circumstances? Can you conceive any satisfactory reason for this? Why not play Dilly regularly? I understand he has a record of 1 ½ goals per match this season. He may be a bit ragged in his play in midfield, but he scores, and that is what counts.
“Cabbage,” after advising Everton for the Cup and Dathi for the Grand National as a “double,” says;- “Would it be inconvenient for you to suggest to the various railway companies to paint their carriages red and blue for the 31st for the followers of the two clubs? This would prevent the class getting mixed with the mass. It might also save a lot of trouble on the return journey, after the Evertonians have painted Birmingham red!”

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 20 March 1906
The League match at Goodison-park tomorrow evening between Everton and Woolwich Arsenal should be a very interesting affair, seeing that both teams are in the semi-final of the English Cup. There is quite a possibility, too, of the Blues and the Gunners opposing one another in the final for the cup, so that this match will be looked upon as a sort of a preliminary canter. The kick-off is timed for five o’clock. The Everton directors will select the team to-night.
Liverpool football followers will be pleased to learn that Rankin, late of Everton is playing in splendid form for West Bromwich Albion. The victory of the Throstles over Bradford City on Saturday was due in a great measure to the play of Rankin.
A Birmingham critic says;- “In the forward line Rankin and Bradley were the most prominent players, the former beating Roberts repeatedly.” Those who saw Roberts perform against Everton in the English Cup-tie at Goodison-park will understand that Rankin must have been especially smart to get the better of so clever and sturdy a defender.

EVERTON v  WOOLWICH ARSENAL
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 21 March 1906
The postponed League fixture between Blues and Gunners was held this evening at Goodison Park. A start was made at five o’clock under favourable conditions. The fixture was of some importance to Woolwich, as even a draw would do much towards strengthening their present position. On the home side Donnachie made his first appearance at Goodison Park. Notable absentees were Sharp, Hardman, Bolton and W. Balmer. Most of the Woolwich players left London yesterday for Liverpool, where they were joined by Ashcroft and Coleman, who had gone direct from Cardiff, as well as by Sharp and Templeton, who came up from Glasgow, where they had represented the Anglo-Scots in Monday’s International trial. Important changes were found necessary in both teams. At the last moment it was found that Sharp would be unable to play for the Blues, so that Donnachie filled the outside right position, and Hardman took up his customary place at outside left.
Everton.- Scott, goal; Hill and R. Balmer, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs; Donnachie, Cooke, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards.
Woolwich Arsenal.- Ashcroft, goal; Gray and Cross, backs; Bigden, Theobald, and McEachrane, half-backs, Gaskill, Coleman Freeman, Satterthwaite, and Neave, forwards.
There were 3,000 spectators present when Freeman started.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 21 March 1906
Referring to the Everton v. Liverpool cup-tie, Mr. W.J. Bassett, the famous forward, says;- “One would have though that a great effort would be made to keep the match for Lancashire, and it is difficult to see why Liverpool enthusiasts should be taxed so heavily to see the match, which, according to its constitution, should be played almost on their doorsteps. I expect League interests have cropped up. League clubs, of course, have a right to look after their own interests, but it seems to me that the disposition is to carry this kind of thing to absurd lengths. The Cup competition should be regarded as of primary importance. Clubs enter for it gladly; they do not grumble when they draw a thousand pound gate in place of an ordinary League gate of, say, £300, but the moment that, late in the competition, their particular interests on a particular afternoon are threatened, there is an outcry. It would be better if the Football Association said at the beginning of next season; ‘In future we will allocate semi-finals to the most fitting grounds, irrespective of the obligations of any League club. This match should have been played at either Bolton or Manchester, or the Liverpool clubs should have tossed for choice of enclosure at Liverpool.”
EVERTON v  WOOLWICH ARSENAL
In this evening’s match at Goodison-park the Everton team is as follows;- Scott; Hill and R. Balmer; Booth, Taylor, Makepeace, Sharp, Cooke, Young, Settle, and Hardman.

EVERTON 0 WOOLWICH ARSENAL 1
March 22 1906. The Liverpool Courier
A DISAPPOINTING GAME.
The re-arranged League fixture was played at Goodison-park yesterday in bright, though rather Chilly weather. The fact that the visitors are one of the four fortunate teams in the semi-final of the English Cup rendered their presence additionally attractive, and the gate was helped by the kick off being fixed for five o'clock Sharp, owing to the death of a relative, was an absentee from the Everton team, and on the Arsenal side there were several changes, Fitchie and Sands being unable to get away from business. The teams were: - Everton: - Scott, goal, Hill and R.Balmer backs, Booth (Captain) Taylor, and Makepeace, half-backs, Donnachie, Cooke, Young, Settle, and Hardman, forwards. Woolwich Arsenal: - Ashcroft, goal, Gray, and Cross, backs, Bigden, Theobald, and McEachrane, half-backs, Garbutt, Coleman Freeman, Scatterwaite, and Neave, forwards. Referee J.T.Howcroft.
Everton winning the toss, had the advantage of the wind. Freeman set the ball in motion, and the Arsenal left got away, but the ball rolled harmlessly behind. From the goal kick Everton came away and threatened danger, a promising move by Settle and Hardman being spoiled by the wind. Young cleverly outwitted Cross and put to Hardman, who, however, failed to reach the ball in time. Settle lost ground by needlessly fouling when well placed. Prior to the free kick a stoppage of a few moments took place while the trainer attended to Booth, and Scatterwaite. The Everton halves were holding the Arsenal forwards splendidly, but from a breakaway Neave centred and Garbutt nearly scored. So far the play had not reached a high standard, Everton with the wind helping them being unable to make any impression on the visitors defence. Young, Bolton, and Donnachie, showed some pretty passing, but when close on goal Donnachie was brought up for fouling Cross. The play was mostly about the half-way line, with Everton making spasmodic attempts at goal. Garbutt got away, and from his centre Coleman tested Scott with a stiff ground shot. Coming away Young put in a terrific drive, which missed by inches only. Hill was applauded for cleverly robbing Freeman, but the Arsenal coming along, Garbutt was allowed to score a somewhat simple goal. This success acted as a tonic to the Arsenal, who commenced to press strongly Scatterwaite and Neave always being dangerous. Settle at one time falling back alone saved the citadel. Arsenal continued to attack strongly, with the result that the Everton defence was scarcely taxed. There was certainly move method about the work of the Gunners than of their opponents, but eventually from smart tactics on the left Cooke helped in just the wrong side of the post. This was the prelude to further pressure by the Blues when display, however, did not come up to expectations. Hardman tried to go through on his own, but was bundled over unceremoniously, and the ball going to Settle, that player sent wide, a performance, which he repeated a few moments later. At the other end after a bad miskick by Taylor, Coleman put in a terrific shot which, fortunately for Everton, was lacking in direction. Neave was injured and had to be attended to by the trainer at the side of the field. Kicking out by the Arsenal backs did not meet with the approval of the crowd, and so far the quality of the football had not attainted a high standard. Ashcroft fisted away from Young, and the Arsenal custodian next had to deal with a long shot from R.Balmer. Everton were now attacking with a little more life, but their efforts in front of goal might easily have been improved upon. Neave reappeared and although Everton had the better of the argument they could not secure the equalising goal. Settle was pulled up for offside to the disastrous of the spectators, and following a corner, Booth banged the ball against an Arsenal defender with tremendous force. Miskicks were frequent on both sides, and combination in the respective forward lines was at a discount. Hardman raced away in great style, and cleverly outwitting Gray got the ball to Young, who with no one to beat missed the ball altogether. The chance was certainly one of a lifetime, and would be especially galling to Hardman, who, had he not been so unselfish, might possibly have scored himself. Half-time Everton nil, Woolwich Arsenal 1.

On resuming, in the presence of some 12,000 spectators, Everton were the first to make headway, and Ashcroft was called upon to negotiate a fine shot from Settle. Arsenal gained a corner through the instrumentally of Garbutt. but the ball from the corner flag was placed behind. Still the Arsenal right wing indulged in some pretty work, and forced the Everton defenders plenty to do to save their lines. Young at last got in a capital shot, which Ashcroft as cleverly diverted, and then the game was stopped for a few movements on account of Donnachie and Cooke coming into collision. Young apart from the one shot, had been distinctly disappointing. Coleman shot and Scott fisted out. Then Everton came along in nice style, but Donnachie's centre was cleared. Hardman when travelling up the wing was given offside a decision, which did not meet with the approval of the crowd. Coleman put in a stinger, which Scott only partially saved at his first attempt, but which he eventually cleared. Young, after some clever dribbling, again spoiled his goal, work by weak shooting. The Arsenal forwards were always dangerous when in possession and gave the Everton defence many anxious moments. For once in a way the Everton half-backs were not at their best, even Makepeace finding Garbutt and Coleman a rare handful. Loose play, by Balmer nearly let in Freeman, whose final shot, however, went wide. A dash by Settle and Young was spoiled by the wind. At no time was the game a good one, the combination of both sides being faulty. Young got the ball beautifully over and Settle just topped the crossbar with a good shot. The Gunners gained a corner, which was well placed, and in the front of goal, Makepeace was slightly injured. Everton also had a corner, but their forwards scarcely ever looked like scoring. Each goal was attacked in turn, and a disappointing game ended in a victory for the Woolwich, who got no more than their deserve. Final; Everton nil Woolwich Arsenal 1.

THE ARSENAL DEFEAT EVERTON.
Sporting Life - Thursday 22 March 1906
This League match was played at Liverpool yesterday in ideal weather, before 8.000 spectators. Neither team was at full strength, Everton lacking the services of Sharp, Bolton, and W. Balmer, and Woolwich were without Sharp, Sands, and Fitchie. Favoured by a strong breeze. Everton were the first to attack, but the Arsenal quickly took up the running, and Neave passed to Garbutt, whose shot went wide. Shortly afterwards Garbutt scored with a fine shot. Hereafter the play was of an even character, with Everton holding a slight advantage. Just prior to the interval Young missed a splendid opportunity of equalising from Hardmans pass.
Half-time score:— Arsenal, 1 goal: Everton, 0.
Resuming, Everton pressed vigorously, and Ashcroft repelled a hot shot from Settle. Young missed another fine opening, but later tested the Arsenal custodian. The visitors played pretty and effective football, and Scott made a splendid clearance from Coleman, and for some time the Everton goal was subjected to a hot bombardment, Balmer eventually bringing timely relief with lengthy kick. Settle and Hardman got down, but were foiled, and again play veered to the centre. During the later stages Everton made desperate attempts to draw level, and Ashcroft kept out some well-directed shots. Result Arsenal, 1 goal; Everton, 0.

ARSENAL BOOM.
Daily Express - Thursday 22 March 1906
EVERTON'S DEFEAT HELPS  “REDS” ALL ROUND.
Woolwich Arsenal demonstrated before 10,000 eyewitnesses at Goodison Park yesterday that their present form is emphatically superior to that of Everton. The score of 1 goal to 0, by which they won, does not, perhaps, indicate this, but play was all in the visitors’ favour. Neither side had full strength, but the forces introduced were fairly representative. The Arsenal had Gray as partner to Cross, Theobald vice Sands and Neave instead of Templeton. For Everton Hill deputised for Crelly at back, and Donnachie figured for Sharp at outsideright. Play throughout the first half was distinctly in favour of the “Reds,” who scored in a quarter of an hour, the goal coming off Balmer, who accidentally kicked into his own net, to the consternation of Scott, who could easily have saved. The original shot was the result of extremely hard and adroit pressure from Freeman, Satterthwaite, and Neave, who were working for an opening in the penalty area. If there had been any doubt in the minds of the spectators as to the relative merits of the teams up to this point there was none, afterwards, for the "Reds" had matters ‘practically all their own way up to half-time, and Everton's goal escaped inremarkable fashion.
SOME SHARP-SHOOTING.
Coleman put in three shots within about five minutes, and two missed by the narrowest possible margin. The second half was more even for about twenty minutes, when Ashcroft’s goal all but fell once through good work by Donnachie and Cooke, the last named of whom finished powerfully fifteen yards from the post.
Ashcroft struck down the ball with his flat hands, and cleared sensationally with Young and Settle rushing at him. There was not a weak spot in the Arsenal team, who, on the run of the play, ought to have won by two or three goals.
Everton have seldom been more thoroughly beaten. Efforts at combination —many of them resolute and not without skill -were nullified by the visiting defence, which was as agile and full of dash without loss of judgment as was the work of the forwards, who passed beautifully, and linked up effectivemanoeuvres in a delight full way.
The victory is doubly welcome to supporters of the Arsenal, inasmuch as it lends further hope for success in the forth-coming English Cup tie with Newcastle United, while the retention of the “Red's " position in League 1, is practically assured.

HOW THE BLUES WERE TORN DOWN
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 22 March 1906
EVERTON TEAM FOR SATURDAY
Bee
Could one conceive that the Reds and Blues at Goodison were Cup semi-finalists? Hardly, Woolwich had much to gain by winning, Everton nothing, yet there was no reason why the home team should not give their loyal thousands of supporters value for their money. If they had taken their chances they would have been proclaimed victors. As the run of the game went we saw two distinct attacking styles, and most particularly at centre forward. On the one hand Young, who once shot in very finely indeed, but just a trifle wide of the mark, was floundering about oft times out of positions and always receiving the ball with his back to the object of his high calling.
His vis-à-vis, Freeman, was nipping in here and there, never fearing, and never giving up, or allowing the backs free kicks, and, in short, “out for blood and goals.” The crowd didn’t appear to like him acting as obstructionist to Scott when the latter took the goal kick. Yet I will guarantee the same crowd would like him to have changed places with the Everton centre. Jocky Taylor was in his best form, and it speaks well for the young lad I strongly recommended Everton to sign on, and Liverpool, for that matter, that he stood up to the centre half so ably. It was through his bustling that Garbutt was enabled to put the ball past Scott, and the Irishman once again was seen saving some tremendous drives. Take Harold Hardman, Taylor, Makepeace, and Scott as excellent and the rest as thoroughly beaten, and you have the best summing up of the situation. The right wing pair were weak, the backs were put off their game. One must give credit to such as Satterthwaite and Coleman for delightful inside forward and to the halves for rare terrier-like work, and Gray for a masterly defence. Ashcroft was there when wanted.
Just a line about the Everton team for Saturday.
It will be the following;- Scott; and the two Balmers, Booth, Taylor, Abbott (Makepeace being reserve in the International match), Sharp, Bolton (if absent, Cooke), Young, Settle, and Donnachie. Hardman has business claims which he cannot overlook in London.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 22 March 1906
The game at Goodison-park last evening was, on the whole, disappointing, very little first-class play, except on the part of the goalkeepers, being witnessed. The Arsenal were always the better side, however, their forwards playing a far better game than the Blues’ front line, whilst the visitors’ backs kicked much stronger. Everton of course, were minus their regular right wing pair, Sharp and Bolton, and the weakness of their substitutes, Donnachie and Cooke, seemed to upset the movements of the home forwards to a great extent. Hardman was the best of a moderate line, the little man being always on the look-out for work, and he did it admirably, too. 
The Arsenal deserved their victory on the run of the play, and the points should set them at ease as far as the Second Division is concerned. Scott saved some good shots, and it was a capital punch on the part of the Irishman which kept out a shot from Coleman which looked like finding the net. Scott appeared to stumble, but this did not prevent him from reaching up with his trusty right arm and banging the ball out. This and one or two saves on the part of Ashcroft were the only redeeming features of an extremely poor display. On such form either team have a poor chance of winning the cup.

REDS' GLORIOUS WIN.
Kentish Independent - Friday 23 March 1906
BEAT EVERTON AT GOODISON PARK-AND AT ALL POINTS.
SPECTATORS CHEERED FOR WOOLWICH.
[By One Who Was There.)
The twelve thousand people who filtered through the turnstiles at Goodison Park, Liverpool, at seven o'clock on Wednesday night, and wended their weary way homewards (or to more brilliantly lighted houses) seemed tired of living—at war with themselves and the world. Not so the little party representing the Reds. There was something significant in the air. The Reds had achieved aglorious victory, the full story of which I propose to tell with a far Irom empty heart. Things were rather quiet until within a few minutes of the appearance of the players, when there would be only about 4,000 spectators round the magnificently structured enclosure. The ground itself was as smooth as a lawn, the weather mild enough for cricket, and as the following players frisked out for their preliminary trials they seemed in just about the seventh heaven of delight:—
Everton.—Scott ; Hill and R. Balmer; Booth (Captain), Taylor and Makepeace; Donnachie, Cooke, young, Settle and Hardman.
Woolwich Arsenal.—Ashcroft; Gray and Cross; Bigden, Theobald and McEachrane; Garbutt, Coleman, Freeman, Satterthwaite and Neave.
Ashcroft was unlucky in the spin of the coin, and had to place his men with their faces to a breeze. Neave was the first away, but failed to survive a double decking from Booth and Hill, the last-named of whom transferred. Cross did not correctly measure the ball, and it was sent over to Hardman, who was promptly grassed by Gray, Ashcroft taking his first goal kick. In a moment he had to clear a big effort by Young. Then the game was temporarily suspended through Booth hurting his foot. It was not a serious in matter, however. Freeman and the couple on his left had a neck to neck race with Booth and his colleague. By some miraculous means the ball, having been cleverly manipulated by Satterthwaite, found its way across to Garbutt, who steadied. This performance took but a fraction of a second, but it meant everything for Balmer was on him and as the Red shot he snapped his foot down. There was a tremendous crack and all semblance of a chance vanished. Theobald cleared nicely when Roddy McEachrane had been tricked, and again headed out from a threatening centre by Hardman, after Ashcroft had taken three long strides in a journey out to a long drive from the home right . Neave tried another beautiful centre, which Coleman grasped, but placed just out. The visiting left wing was in rare trim, however, and coming again, Satterthwaite and Niece pressed Hill so hotly that Balmer came up to assist. A good ran down the right finished by Garbutt snapping up a chance and scoring, the ball glancing into the net quite out of the reach of Scott, who doubtless looked more than he felt able at the moment to express. Of course, this was a bit of bad luck to Everton, but unquestionably the Reds deserved the goal. The Manor Field men were great Guns after this. Not only did they go off, but "came off" again and again, but were prevented from firing by the desperate Merseyites. Satterthwaite and Neave were much too smart for their opponents, and there were great expectations when Freeman, having drifted a few yards, gave to Coleman, who judged his final within two inches of the mark. The Arsenal came again. Freeman was in possession, but saw that Coleman was in a rather better position. So he slipped the ball forward to "Timmy," and Tim showed that he was by no means tiny. He sprinted for all he was worth, and the crowd, which had now grown considerably in size, held its breath as he fired. But for the third time within almost as many minutes his final went too much on the wrong side of the post.
Neace was laid by a few moments with an injury to his leg, and while Dunmore rubbed the crushed limb in touch, the Reds defenders for the first time in the combat had an anxious time. Still Gray, Cross and McEachrane rose stoutly to the occasion, Cross heading finely. Bigden had a skirmish with Settle and Hardman. The ball went on to Gray, who in trying to get round it kneed it over the goal line, Ashcroft clutching and flinging out Hardman's lightning cross. The little outside left came again. Grey looked as if he would overhaul him, but when the pair came to close quarters a Gray unaccountably sprang over the ball, which Hardman nipped up. The fall of the Arsenal goal looked certain as the homester swung in at a terrific pace. Young and Settle were both waiting within half-a-dozen yards of Ashcroft, but somehow—and, upon my word, the slip was miraculous—both failed to gather it, and the opportunity was lost much to the relief of the apprehensive Reds skipper. He actually smiled, however, a minute afterwards when the tootle of the whistle signalled the arrival of five minutes of refreshment in the dressing tent. With one goals to the good—a goal which, by the way, had been chalked up sixteen minutes from the kick-off—there seemed a tolerably good chance of returning home with still another addition to the great and gratifying wins of the past few weeks. Play was rather tame for two or three minutes after resuming. The first notable item was a corner to the Arsenal, Garbutt placed it on the back of the net. The Everton forwards made a swift, electrifying run. Young should have gone forward, but chose instead to send out at a slow rate. The crowd sang, "Oh my, what a bull." Thereupon, as if he had heard the cries, Hardman put the ball in end Young this time tried finely but vainly to bring about the defeat of Ashcroft, who fisted the bail down, and catching it as it came up threw it away into touch. A strange sight met the eyes when both the home right wing men laid prostrate on the ground. They had run against each other and knocking heads had doubtless seen some queer sights. Ashcroft and " Arch " Cross bore down on the men and rendered them prompt and willing service, so that they resumed in a moment. Freeman got under weigh, only to be upset (in more ways than one) by Hill. His body spun round like a leaf, and he fell with something of a thud, but was not hurt. Everton afterwards assaulted by their left, the onlookers professing annoyance in loud and almost profane language as Hardman was brought up for offside. Cooke fouled McEachrane. Cross took the kick, from which, however, no advantage accrued, Makepeace fastening on and flicking out to Hardman who was non-plussed by Bigden. Another infringement of the foul law (which for the moment was anything but foul) enabled Gray to place well down. Taylor and Hill broke up the Arsenal attack, and a throw-in resulted. From this Neave raced away, but shooting before he really ought to have done, saw his effort go leisurely three yards away from the billet. Everton got very uneasy and their right assaulted. Cross missed his kick through a subtle bit of work by Donnachie, and Cooke secured ten yards away from Ashcroft. The instant and instance were not too pleasant for us, and in our hearts we promised to remember Cooke in our respective wills for driving on to the outside of the net.
Neave took two abortive corners, after which one fell to the homesters, Cross having acted very wisely, and a trifle luckily, by diverting over the goal line a terrific shot by Donnachie. Thereabouts the Arsenal were not as prominent as Everton, and it must be confessed that one had his "doots," but they staved off another determined attempt by Young. The pace, which had been killing, slackened off a bit now, and though the home partisans longed and called for an equalising point in a distressingly plaintive way, and though they hoped on to the last their desires remained ungratified.
True just before the close their pets won a corner which Ashcroft saved, the rebound going out, though within an ace of the mark. The evening shadows deepened and deepened—bringing more light to light us, more darkness to Goodison. But when shortly before seven o'clock the whistle announced that time had expired no man could say, and no man dared to say, that the Reds had not won by better combination, better shooting, and more skilful tactics from beginning to end. For they had, and facts, however disagreeable they are sometimes, are stubborn things. As the Reds passed into their dressing quarters many of the home supporters gathered round and accorded them what they certainly deserved, a hearty and spontaneous clap.
I would not for worlds insult the intelligence of any football enthusiasts who claims adherence to Manor Field as a part of his gospel by making distinctions as to the individual play of the individuals responsible for the collective play. Never did I receive better satisfaction or more enjoyment from the doings of eleven men than I have done in connection with the Goodison victory.

TOMORROW’S FOOTBALL
Liverpool Echo - Friday 23 March 1906
Bee
There is a deal of news concerning the Everton club. In the first place their team to contest at Goodison with Sunderland includes Abbott, who has been rested awhile, for Harry Makepeace, who is on reserve for the English League versus the Scottish League at Chelsea. This quiet Saturday for the popular half back will, doubtless prove most acceptable under the circumstances, for he has had a arduous run so far, and in view of the future events has well-earned a rest- of course I am taking it for granted that the selected teams will play, and I have heard of no doubtful starter as yet. Then Bolton is chosen to play. The Scot has spent some days in bed through the collision at Blackburn, and I fancy Cooke will partner Sharp. Hill drops out through W. Balmer’s return to health, and the other alteration is the inclusion of Donnachie for Harold Hardman, who has to be in London on Saturday for business purposes. Perhaps he will have a look round the Crystal Palace to see things as they are in case of a further visit in April.
Sunderland have chosen the same team as that which won the four last League games. It is a most unusual thing for a club to be able to play the same team in five consecutive League matches. It shows striking immunity from accident if nothing else. The players left at noon to-day. Intending spectators must take note that in order that Sunderland mat catch a convenient train on returning the kick-off has been made fifteen minutes earlier than usual -3.15.
Now, with regard to the semi-final Cup tie, I would like to point out that enthusiasts who require tickets for the great meeting between the two Liverpool clubs should not sent their applications for reserved seats to the local secretaries, but to Mr. George B. Ramsay, Secretary Aston Villa F.C, Villa Park, Aston, Birmingham. Already the rush on the reserved portion promises to exceed all other Villa grounds records, and I advise those who are going to the match to post their application this night-and perhaps, the enclosure of a stamped addressed envelope for reply would facilitate matters. During next week I will try and arrange for the benefit of the excursionists, a guide in and around the Brass capital. Immediately, I may mention that the Liverpool directorate have decided that the players shall not be sent away to the season for special training, preferring the home course, which has proved best taking all the League fixtures as a criterion. The Reds are a steady set of follows, and one fails to see the necessity for the visits to other quarters for this special training. It has some advantages, and many disadvantages, and among the latter one cannot help thinking that the menu card put before the players is too sumptuous to what they, or anyone else for that matter, are accustomed to, and the foodstuff is not of the kind that will keep a man fit.
Everton’s fixture list has become somewhat mixed up, and the following arrangements made will considerably clear the matter. The match deferred with Stoke will be played on April 3 (Tuesday) , subject to the semi-final tie being definitely settled; otherwise the match will stand over till the 24th the Tuesday following the cup final date. This is an encounter for Goodison. The one away with Birmingham will probably be played on April 9, and the annual match between the two local clubs for the Liverpool Senior Cup will be contested at Goodison on April 30. Now with regard to two minor matches, I find that Oldham Athletic, due at Goodison on the 31st-the semi-final date-have arranged to play off next Tuesday evening, and this allows the return Combination match between Liverpool and Everton Reserves to take place on Saturday week. Therefore the enthusiasts who are unable to get to Birmingham to see the seniors in the last but one stage of the cup ties, may see their deputation fierce warfare at Anfield.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 23 March 1906
Everton have arranged to play their Combination fixture against Oldham Athletic on Tuesday evening next instead of Saturday week. The kick-off is timed for five o’clock. On Saturday the 31st, Everton Reserve and Liverpool Reserve will play off their match at Anfield, as both the senior teams will be engaged at Birmingham in the struggle for the Cup.
Although the result of the match between Everton and Sunderland is not of great importance to either club, still a good game can confidently be looked forward to. The Wearsiders are always favourites in this city, as they invariably give the Blues a good game. An improvement on Wednesday’s display by the home team will have to be shown if the Northerners are to be overcome.
The absence of H.P. Hardman from the Everton team to meet Sunderland is due to the fact that the popular amateur, who has been busily engaged studying for his final examination, will have to journey to London, where he will sit on the following Monday and Tuesday for an admittedly stiff examination before he can become a full-fledged lawyer. The heartiest wishes of his many football friends go with him. May he get through his “papers” as quickly and as successfully as he has often run through a football team’s defence is the sincere wish to all.

EVERTON v  SUNDERLAND
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 24 March 1906
LEAGUE DIVISION 1
By Pigeon Post and Telephone
YOUNG OPENS EVERTON’S ACCOUNT
SHAW EQUALISES
These old rivals met at Goodison Park in fine bracing weather, before 10,000 spectators. The Wearsiders are always an attractive team to Liverpool audiences, and especially as recent encounters have favoured the Roker Park exponents. The result of Everton’s visit to Sunderland on November 18 was a 2-1 defeat for the Blues. The team included the following players;-
Everton.- Scott, goal; Balmer and Crelly, backs; Booth (captain), Taylor, and Abbott, halves; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Donnachie, forwards.
Sunderland.- Naisby, goal; Rhodes, and Watson, backs; Farquhar, Tomlin, and Willis, halves; Hogg, O’Donnell, Shaw, Gemmill, and Bridgett, forwards.
Referee.- Mr. F. Heath.
Everton lost the toss, and Young kicked off against the wind. The first move of any note was distinctly in favour of the visitors, who passed along the line from O’Donnell to Bridgett the last-named passing in a fine centre, from which Shaw tested Scott, who saved on his knees. A corner followed, and from this Gemmell shot over the bar. Donnachie went away, and passed to Young, the latter being easily robbed; and a further move forward by Sharp and Bolton was checked by Tomlin. A short delay occurred owing to Crelley being slightly injured, shortly after which Taylor sent to Settle, and then Young came in and shot finely, Naisby saving well. Everton then gained a corner, which was nicely cleared by Gemmell. The Sunderland boys were attacking methodically and earnestly, and Taylor, Booth and Crelly were all beaten in turn before Abbott relieved the pressure. But the Roker halves proved very tenacious, and the Blues found it very difficult to make much progress in the Sunderland territory. Rhodes got temporarily damaged, and in his place was taken by Gemmill, the visitors meanwhile playing four forwards. Settle instituted a couple of attacks, and from these Young pluckily endeavoured to get through, but he was unlucky in failing to gather one very clever pass from the little man. Four corners fell successively to the Blues, and the Wearsiders had much the worst of the argument, but their sound defence stood them in good stand. Taylor served Settle and Young, but the latter was shouldered off the ball, which went out to Sharp, the move being stopped owing to Taylor being hurt. Then Bridgett forced a corner off Crelley, and Hogg put the ball over the bar. Bolton failed to take a pass from Sharp, but Taylor captured the ball and gave Naisby a rare handful. Directly afterwards Abbott gave the ball to Settle, who pass to Young, the latter being nicely placed and scoring a fine goal some twenty minutes after the start. At the other end Bridgett tested Scott, the Everton goalkeeper coming out of the ordeal with flying colours; and then the home left wing put in some pretty work, but on the ball being sent across Bolton again failed to take it, and a good opportunity went wrong. Hogg beat Abbott smartly, and tried his luck with a shot which stuck the side of the net. Then the Blues invaded Sunderland territory, and Young received favourably from Settle, only to shoot very erratically. The Everton forwards were doing very well, and their attack was brisk and methodical, but Bolton was not too effective in combination. From an Everton goal kick the visitors attacked resolutely, and Scott saved smartly a very fine shot from Willis, Balmer was now hurt and left the field. Thus Balmer, Crelly, and Taylor had all met with mishaps. Taylor supplied Settle, who tripped off and put Hardman in possession. The outsider centred, but Young could not make any further progress. Bolton at this point went half back, Bolton cleared a free kick which was given against Everton and the next moment Young and Sharp were busy at the opposite end, where Everton had a free kick close to the corner flag, and from this the Sunderland goal had a narrow escape. Donnachie failed to take a pass from Abbott, the result being a sharp attack on the Goodison goal, O’Donnell only missing by inches. Young was left with a fine opening in front of the Wearsiders’ goal, but missed, and a little later on shot wildly; but Naisby was in trouble with a couple of grand shots from Sharp, only great smartness on the part of the ‘keeper averting a score. At this point Balmer returned, and was greeted with a hearty cheer. Hogg now came down his wing with great determination, and Abbott failed to check him, O’Donnell received nicely, and Crelley was beaten. Just at this moment Shaw joined his wind, and received from Hogg a flying pass. Shaw certainly looked offside, but he went on unchallenged and shot in strongly at close quarters. Scott made a brave effort to save his charge, but could not quite get the ball over, and it rebounded into play from the cross-bar. Before Scott could locate the leather Shaw dashed in again and netted. Just before half-time Hogg got in a perfect run and centre, but Shaw and O’Donnell both failed to trap the leather, which they should very easily have done, and by this lucky means Everton escaped disaster. Sunderland attacked strongly until the interval.
Half-time score Everton 1 goal, Sunderland 1 goal.
MILD OPENING EXCHANGES
NEAT FORWARD WORK
YOUNG HIMSELF AGAIN
AN EVEN FIRST HALF
EVERTON’S ATTACK IMPROVES
NAISBY KEPT VERY BUSY

When the players restarted there were 12,000 spectators present. Shaw led off, and his right wing joined in a determined attack. Hogg put in a brilliant shot, which luckily for the “blues” Gemmell failed to follow up, but soon after he tested Scott with a fine long shot. Sharp tried a run on his own, but Watson dispossessed him smartly. As a matter of fact, the cricketer had not done much so far, but again securing possession, he meddled cleverly, and Abbott, without the slightest hesitation, made one of his characteristic efforts, and beat Naisby all to pieces with it- a magnificent shot. Continuing the “Blues” were responsible for some excellent work, which kept the Sunderland defence busy, and on one occasion Young looked like getting through, but failed through want pf stamina. The ball was carried into Sunderland territory, where Sharp because busy, and Bolton passed to Young, who was offside. To the free kick Everton replied with another, but failed to gain any advantage. Smart work in midfield was followed by a useful centre from Sharp, but Bolton and Young each had their way blocked. Abbott set Donnachie and Settle going, the latter being brought down when he was getting dangerous. The ball was passed out to Sharp, who was somewhat easily robbed, and after further pressure by the home team a foul was given against Settle for handling, at which decision the Everton man appeared to be much surprised. The free kick did not give the Wearsiders much advantage, for the ball was brought back by the right wingers; but shortly afterwards the visitors made a strong attack. A weak clearance by Crelly was fortunately covered by Booth and Taylor, but it did not retard the advantage of the Wearsiders. Finally O’Donnell kicked behind. The visitors continued to hold Everton’s territory for some time, until Taylor passed forward to Young, but Sandy made a very poor show against Watson and Rhodes. A hot attack on Naisby resulted in Young working a corner off Naisby very smartly, and it was only fitting that when the kick was taken Sandy should head the leather into the desired haven, and gave the Blues a comfortable lead. The crowd were immensely pleased to find Young in such good form. Then came pretty work from Booth, Sharp, and Bolton, the latter finishing up with a neat presentation to Naisby. The Blues pressed vigorously, and Bolton forced a corner which was rejected. The Sunderland right wingers broke away, a foul against Hogg spoiling the move. Following the free kick Young nearly got through, and then Sharp forced a corner, which gave the defenders some trouble. Young then passed out to Donnachie, who shot and caused Naisby to save. Little tried his hand, the ball going to Sharp from whose centre Abbott drove the ball in strongly, but missed, Naisby saved from Bolton, and afterwards the visitors made their way into Everton territory. A free kick was given against Everton, but Balmer, Settle, and Donnachie took the ball back, the last-named saved from want of speed back, the latter failing from want of speed. Abbott checked Hogg smartly when he looked decidedly dangerous, and then Balmer stayed the course of Bridgett on the opposite wing. The visitors were very persistent, but they could not resist the close attentions of Booth and Taylor. Sharp led an invasion of the Sunderland territory. Bolton passing back to Abbott, the sturdy half-back gave Naisby a regular “roaster” to dispose of, which he did at the expense of a corner. Another corner soon followed, and Young was within an ace of heading past Naisby. Bolton put in a wonderfully fast shot, but unluckily struck Rhodes or another goal would certainly have resulted. Settle next put forward to Young, who replied with a truly brilliant shot, which forced another corner. Young was in splendid form assuredly. Everton had matters all their own way in the latter stages of the game.
Final Result;- Everton 3 goals, Sunderland 1 goal
Last season-Sunderland 1, Everton nil

EVERTON’S EMENDATION
Athletic News - Monday 26 March 1906
By Junius
After their vacillating exhibition against Woolwich on the previous Wednesday, Everton were certainly not favourites for League encounter with Sunderland, but there is no knowing what to expect from the Goodison team at present. They may please or dissatisfy without any warning, and to attempt to prognosticate where they are concerned is to court disaster. It is useless to expect Everton to turn out the same team twice in succession and there five changes in the side which tackled Sunderland from that which opposed Woolwich Arsenal.  The alterations were all towards efficiency, and the eleven which represented Everton won comfortably, and at the same time broke a somewhat monotonous record or reverses.  The three previous visitors of Sunderland had each ended in victories for the Wearsiders, in which Everton had not gained a solitary goal, so that the latter’s success in Saturday’s encounter by 3 goals to 1 was doubly welcome. In fact, Everton showed something like their real form in this match, and no doubt much of this improvement was due to the capital work displayed by Young at centre forward. This position been Everton's weakness throughout the present campaign, and could the forward leader maintain the form shown against Sunderland in subsequent matches, Everton would quickly mount upwards in the results table. But Everton are a curious team just now.
NAISBY HELPLESS
They commenced IN dashing style against the Wearsiders, and scarcely ten minutes had elapsed ere a lovely pass from Abbott to Settle enabled the latter to transfer to Young, and the centre placed beautifully past Naisby, who was helpless. Sunderland strove strenuously after this reverse, and Scott was frequently tested with difficult shots, but he proved equal to every emergency. Balmer was injured during a tussle, and retired for ten minutes, and the visitors pressed, what time Everton were content to adopt the one back game. The play waxed furiously, and both goals were endangered, but eventually, after a brilliant movement on the visitors' left wing, Scott saved from Bridgett, and Shaw, dashing in, equalized. From now to the interval Sunderland had the better of the exchanges, and only sterling custodianship by Scott prevented them from gaining the lead. The clearance at full from Gemmell was splendidly achieved, but the teams faced each other at the interval on equal terms as regards scoring.
WEARSIDERS BEATEN.
During the remaining portion of the contest Everton claimed a distinct advantage, for they were aided by a powerful breeze, and they confined play in their opponents’ quarters. Sharp was quickly in evidence, and after one of his centres had gone astray another came across to Abbott, who rushed in and gave Naisby no chance with his final drive. From this point onward the Wearsiders were a beaten team. They never seemed like wresting the advantage from the home players, and when Young converted a corner kick, well placed by Donnachie, the Issue was absolutely beyond doubt. From this stage Everton were easily the superior side, and they came near to increasing their lead. Some sterling defensive work by Naisby and Watson averted further reverses, and though Everton were pressing hotly during the last quarter of an hour, they could not again baffle the attentions of their rival defenders. They thus avenged the defeat sustained at Roker on November 18, and rehabilitated themselves in the eyes of their supporters.
A SINGULAR SIDE
Truly Everton are a singular team. Three days prior to this match with Sunderland, they shaped like a back number, and their performance against Woolwich undoubtedly affected the attendance. The Wearslders are always an attractive draw in Liverpool, yet I should say there was one of the smallest gates of the season at Goodison to welcome them on their recent visit. Everton’s defence has seldom been found wanting throughout the winter, and everything has depended upon the form shown by the forwards. In this match Young found time to exhibit of his undoubted capabilities, and this naturally excited a beneficial Influence along the whole front rank. His first goal was the result of superb footwork between him, Settle, and Abbott and though he was far from being a complete success, yet his display was so much in advance of what has been witnessed from him recently that it quite revived the drooping spirits of the club’s following. Hardman was a conspicuous absentee but he was not missed, for Donnachie made a most able substitute, and gave promise of possessing more than average ability. I was particularly impressed by the manner in which continually lobbed the ball in front of goal, and he tumbled to Settle as an inside partner without the least hesitation. The left wing was truly very able.
THE RIGHT SHARP
On the right Bolton and Sharp constituted a dangerous pair, and the latter is one of the most skillful wingers in finishing his sprints along touch that I have seen this season. The two goals scored in the second half were chiefly due to the effective manner In which he sent the ball across the goalmouth, though hardly pressed by the Sunderland backs, and the County cricketer makes the Everton attack fifty per cent, more efficient when he is included in the team. Bolton gave a capital exhibition and the right wing couple were responsible for some lovely footwork. In the rear division Abbott was very prominent and his long rest seems to have acted as a tonic for was decidedly the most successful performer amongst the half-backs. Taylor likewise gave a terrier like display and he was always intervening just when the hopes of the Sunderland forwards were at their highest pitch. Booth played better than against Woolwich, but he is far removed from the half back of last season's form. At full back Crelley gave a grand display, his tackling and kicking being especially clever, and W. Balmer, despite the knock on the leg which caused his temporary retirement, is still powerful factor in Everton’s most capable defence. Scott kept a capital goal, and his work throughout the season has been most consistently and skillfully accomplished.
THE SMART SHAW
Sunderland were seen best in the first half, when their forwards were vigorous and clever and their defence sound and alert. Shaw is a decidedly smart centre-forward, and he gave his wings ample opportunities of making head way, but after the change of ends this faculty was not often in evidence. I could not understand the negligence displayed in attending to the left wing, for Gemmell and Bridgett were dangerous whenever they gained possession, yet in the second half they were rarely afforded the opportunity of making headway. The extreme left winger was the best of the forwards, and his centres were always a source of danger to the Everton defence.  The half-backs were disappointing, for, though they started well, they failed to maintain their earlier excellence.  Prior to the interval they seemed like proving a stumbling block to Everton’s advances, but they fell away altogether in the closing stages.  At full-back Watson was distinctly the better player, some of his deft touches in beating Sharp being beautifully executed and fairer defence could not be wished for than he gave. Rhodes kicked well, though not so reliable as his partner under pressure, whilst Naisby showed good form in goal, and has an intelligent idea of the duties necessary to fill such an important post.  Everton; Scott; W. Balmer, Crelley; Booth, Taylor, Abbott; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Donnachie.  Sunderland; Naisby; Rhodes, Watson; Farquhar, Tomlin, Willis; Hogg, O’Donnell, Shaw, Gemmill, and Bridgett.  Referee; F. Heath, Birmingham. 

EVERTON 3 SUNDERLAND 1
March 26, 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
EVERTON'S RETURN TO FORM.
FINE DISPLAY AGAINST SUNDERLAND.
After the wretched display which the Everton team gave against Woolwich Arsenal, givings as to the outcome of their match with Sunderland. Especially was this the case in view of the fact that for three seasons in succession the Wearsiders had triumphed at Goodison park, without the home contingent being able to score a solitary goal. Happily the Evertonians for once in a way gave of their best, and it is quite within the range of probability that if the football public had any idea of the quality of the game Everton were to play the attendance might have been doubted. The improvement too came at an opportune time, for is not the game of the season to be played at Birmingham next Saturday? Certainly Everton's latest exhibition has given their supporters additional hope for the success of their favourites in the semi final at Aston-park with their keen but friendly rivals of Anfield-road. One thing is certain, that if Youngs plays up to the standard which he attained against Sunderland the Liverpool defence, strong as it is, will have to be on their best behaviour.
POINTS OF THE PLAN.
The weather was scarcely calculated to bring out the best points of the Association code, for the strong wind which blow from goal to goal interforced not a little with the best intentioned efforts of the contestants, Sunderland's opportunity of repeating previous victories came to them in the first half when they had the benefit of the breeze. Unfortunately for them, but all the better for Everton, they failed to rise to the occasion, and threw away chances of scoring by resorting to the dallying tactics when in front of the goal posts. As a matter of fact, Everton opened the scoring Young being the excentant. It was a brilliant effort, too, on the part of the home centre forward, who had to thank Settle for giving him the chance as the result of a well judged pass, Sunderland although in arrears played up strongly, and when Balmer had to leave the field owing to injury one might have expected an extra efforts to be made on their part. Singularly enough it was not until Balmer's reappearance that the equalising goal arrived, Shaw netting the ball after Gemmill had tested Scott. There was quite a different story to tell of the second halt. Aided by the wind the Evertonians came out of their shell, and in the end-ran the Sunderland men off their feet. Nalsby proved a rare custodian, and certainly no blame could possibly attach to him for his failure to stop the shots with which Abbott and Young scored. Indeed, he kept out many hot attempts one from a splendid shot by Young being exceedly clever. Everton won conformably by three goals to one, and, as has been indicated afforded great delight to their followers.
YOUNG'S REVIVAL.
The most pleasurable feature of the game from an Everton point of view was the capital display of Young. The Everton centre has proved disappointing practically throughout the season, but in the match under notice he showed the ability which a few years ago led to him receiving his cap against England. Apart from his judgement work in midfield he let himself go in the matter of shooting, with the result that he credited himself with a couple of goals, while other shots of his might easily have beaten a less skilful custodian than Nalsby. With Young in such form it will require a very powerful defence to overcome the Everton front line, while Sharp, Bolton, and Settle attained their usual standard, it was pleasing to note the advance made by Donnachie, who especially in the later stages of the match was singularly effective as substitute for Hardman. Abbott signallised his reappearance in the half-back line by scoring a goal- and what a terrific shot it was- on other respects he gave a sound display. Scott was safe in goal, and despite Balmer's injury, there was little fault to be found with the Everton backs. Nalsby proved himself a most capable custodian, and probably the two other prominent figures on the Sunderland side were Watson and Shaw. Teams: - Everton: - Scott, goal, W.Balmer, and Crelly, backs Booth (Captain) Taylor, and Abbott half-backs, Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Donnachie forwards. Sunderland: - Nalsby, goal, Rhodas, and Watson, backs, Farquhar, Tomlin, and Willis, half-backs Hogg, O'Donnell, Shaw (Joseph), Gemmill, and Bridgetts, forwards. Referee F.Heath.

NELSON 2 EVERTON RESERVES 0
March 26 1906. The Liverpool Courier.
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 31)
In view of the recent moderate displays on the part of Everton Reserves, it was hardly to be expected that they could prove equal to the task of beating Nelson. They, however, put up a good fight, although they had to acknowledge another defeat. Changes were again made in the forward line, but as the team failed to score the alteration would not appear to have been altogether successful. Nelson put on a goal in each half, and at times gave the Everton defenders plenty of work, but Depledge, and his backs played well all through, and it was chiefly due to their sound work that Nelson did not score oftener than they did. One of the Everton backs was Russell a Midland player, and he showed that he has good football in him. Like Everton, the home side had a sound defence, the ready tackling of the halves and full backs preventing the visitors from getting into their stride. There was however, a lack in method near goal, and an improvement in the attack is necessary if Everton are to make any further progress in the table. They have only won two matches since the New Year, and then only by a single goal in each instance. It is to be hoped that a victory will be forthcoming on Tuesday evening when Oldham Athletic visits Goodison-Park. Everton: - Deledge goal, Wildman, and Russell, backs, Black, Chadwick, and Donaldson, half-backs, Birnie, Holmes, Bowser, McLoughlin, and Grundy, forwards.

EVERTON RESERVES 2 OLDHAM ATHLETIC RESERVES 0
March 28 1906. The Liverpool Courier
Lancashire Combination Division One (Game 32)
This rearranged match was played at Goodison-park last evening, before a moderate attendance. It was the return engagement between the clubs, the initial match having resulted in favour of Oldham by a goal to nil, the point being scored from a penalty kick. Everton made several changes from Saturday's team, the elevens being as follows: - Everton: - Depledge, goals, Streetle, and Wright, backs, Frith, Chadwick, and Donaldson, half-backs, Birnie, Holmes, Bannister, McLaughlin, and Grundy, forwards. Oldham: - Wright, goals, Hobson, and Stafford, backs, Fay, McAllister, and Heywood, half-backs, Kelly, Shadbolt, Galvin, Cairns, and Tannahill, forwards. Galvin kicked off, and the Athletic were the first to show up, Wright repulsing, Everton retaliated, and Bannister tried Wright with a beauty, which the custodian cleared. Wright followed this with a long drive, but Hodson got the ball out of the ruck and cleared. The Athletic could not get away, and Chadwick forced Wright to give a corner from a long effort. This came to naught, however, for a long period the game was went in favor of the home team. Strettell, a recruit from the Lively Polly Club, showing up well in defence when the Athletic tried to break away. Bannister then beat Wright with a high shot, and opened the scoring for the home team. Thus encouraged, Everton put on further pressure, and soon afterwards McLaughlin scored a second goal with a swift drive, Wright being helpless. Oldham were never really dangerous, although once Galvin sent close with a long shot Everton, though doing all the pressure, could not beat Wright again, and the interval arrived with the score 2-0 in favour of the home side. Everton restarted, and Oldham had a look in, McAllister sending over, McLaughlin following suit at the other end. The Athletic improved considerably on their form of the first half, Strettell clearing beautifully and Depledge saving a fine attempt by Kelly. Good work by Tannahill and Cairns was negative by Chadwick, the Athletic for some time quite as much of the play as their opponents. Galvin forced Depledge to given a corner, which proved useless. Depledge had to give another corner in order to prevent a shot from Kelly taking effect, the flag kick again proving abortive. The Athletic were trying hard to open their score, but Depledge and his backs were safe, the custodian saving well from Kelly. The closing portion of the game was evenly contested, and once Bannister nearly got through, but nothing further was scored, and Everton gained a welcome victory. Final- Everton two goals Oldham Athletic nil.

EVERTON v  SUNDERLAND
Newcastle Daily Chronicle - Monday 26 March 1906
WEARSIDERS DEFEATED
Sunderland, represented by their strongest team, were engaged at Goodison Park on Saturday. The meeting was the thirty-ninth encounter between the teams. Sunderland hold the balance of wins, having held victorious on twenty-four occasion. Everton had, however, administered very heavy defeats to the Wearsiders. Perhaps the most valuable couple of points Everton had ever earned at the expense of Sunderland were won on the occasion of their visit to Roker Park last March, by means of which they came within an ace of winning the League championship. At Roker, in November, Sunderland beat the Lancashire men. There was a good deal of interest in the match, and in view of the improved form of the Wearsiders, they were expected by some of lower the local colours for the second time within a week on their own enclosure. Everton were decidedly aggressive when set in motion by a clever pass from Booth, and Settle had a chance from Donnachie’s centre; but he dallied with his shot too long, and Rhodes promptly rushed up and tackled him. As a result, Sunderland made ground on the left, but Gemmill failed to elude Booth, who put his side on the aggressive with a judicious pass. Sharp, however, was ell placed with an open goal before him, allowed the ball to go over. But directly afterwards Young got possession, and made no mistake in netting the ball. Midfield exchanges were for a short time the order. Then Everton got away from a pass by Taylor, but Rhodes pulled them up promptly. Sunderland next had a turn, but they failed to get the better of Balmer and Abbott. A miskick on the part of Crelly let the visitors in, and Hogg was now slow to test Scott with an oblique shot that gave the custodian a good deal of trouble. Everton now exerted pressure, and twice they came in, but first Rhodes and then Willis proved a stumbling block to their ambitions. The last attempts was made by Bolton. He was well placed, but Naisby had little difficulty in clearing. Sunderland got to business after a spell of inaction, and their forwards were very lively in a couple of smartly manipulated attacks on the home goal, Scott being twice called upon-once by Gemmill and then a header from Shaw at short range, giving him still greater trouble. Everton attacked for Young to fail in an attempt to reach a broad pass of Donnachie’s and then the Wearsiders passed with vigour on their left, and Bridgett swung across a capital centre for Shaw to shoot straight at Scott, who saved cleanly. Everton returned to the other end, but off-side against Bolton spoilt the effort. Sunderland again attacked on the left, and a centre by Bridgett was seen to travel right across the goalmouth but none of the visiting forwards were able to reach it. The ball was transferred, and Sharp centred to Young, and Naisby had to save smartly from that player. Everton now pulled themselves together a little better, and Donnachie swung across to Bolton. After a capital run, in which he had well beaten Farquhar, a position was won for a shot, but Bolton was not quick enough, and Rhodes dashing up baffled his attempt, and the leather was sent outside. Sunderland were set attacking by Tomlin, who, after cleverly robbing Young, showed judgement in a pass to O’Donnell. The latter, being able to run down, gave to Shaw, who was enabled to test Scott with a rasping shot. Everton returned promptly on their left, and Young shot in from Donnachie’s centre, Naisby saving cleverly. A smart piece of combination on the home left beat Farquhar, but Rhodes nipped in and cleared from Settle. Then the Wearsiders got away in line, and Gemmill was well placed for a centre by Hogg. His shot, however, travelled a foot wide of the post. Everton responded and a pass from Abbott enabled Settle to win a shooting position, but his shot also was ill-directed. For some time after this Everton had considerably the best of the exchanges, but Sunderland at length got going, and a nice combined attack resulted in Shaw receiving the ball when in a good position, from which he easily beat Scott after 25 minutes’ play. It might be remarked here that the first goal had been scored seven minutes from the start. End-to-end play followed. An attack by Everton ended in a useless corner. Then at the other end Gemmell tricked Balmer, and gave Scott a warm handful. A quick round the home goal ensued before Balmer managed to head the ball away. Sharp made off, beating Willis for pace, and swinging in when threatened by Watson, was commended for a good pierce of play. Although Young reached the ball, Rhodes was upon him instantly and the danger was averted by the latter player kicking away. A strong attack by the visitors was initiated by Shaw and O’Donnell, and the latter ran through the home defence, for Scott to save smartly at close range. Everton now replied hard, and the Sunderland goal underwent strong siege, Bolton and Booth giving Naisby difficult shots to handle. Rhodes robbed Settle, and O’Donnell getting away passed to Hogg, who unfortunately was offside. A corner rewarded an attack by Everton, but Young headed over, while at the other end O’Donnell spoiled an attack by handling. No further goal came in this half, which was well contested in fine, cold weather, before 10,000 spectators. At the interval the score was one goal each.
The game was restarted at ten minutes past four. Everton commenced to press at once, and their efforts were eventually rewarded by Abbott receiving and putting in a soft shot, which beat the Sunderland goalkeeper, 10 minutes after the restart, O’Donnell passed to Hogg, who ran to his corner, and centred. Balmer, however, reached the leather and cleared. Everton next got in, only to be dispossessed by Watson. The Wearsiders were not long idle. Bridgett tricking Booth, sprinted through and gave to Shaw. That player shot in hard and true, but Scott saved. There was a long spell of pressure by the Toffee men, and the Wearsiders only got in occasionally, Taylor’s fine half back play meeting with the approbation of the crowd. Once, however, Bridgett was conspicuous for a brilliant run and centre, but none of his colleagues were up. Everton came on strongly, Bolton, beating Willis, passed to Sharp, who, when threatened by the back, passed to Young. The latter shot in with great force just as the whistle blew for offside. On another occasion, Young very nearly notched the third point, failing through want of stamina only. Sharp next had a turn, and the cricketer getting down his wing, very nearly scored. The Everton forwards were again aggressive, and Young, who had been playing a smart fame, secured, and splendidly beat for the third time the Sunderland custodian.
Final;- Everton 3 goals, Sunderland 1 goal.
Everton.- Goal, Scott; backs, W. Balmer, Crelly; half-backs Booth (captain), Taylor, Abbott; forwards, Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, Donnachie.
Sunderland.- Goal, Naisby; backs, Rhodes and Watson; half-backs, Farquhar, Tomlin and Willis; forwards, Hogg, O’Donnell, Shaw, Gemmill, and Bridgett.

HONOUR TO YOUNG
Liverpool Echo - Monday 26 March 1906
Bee
“Chiming Bells” was at Goodison, and ruminates thus;- There was a time when Everton and Sunderland in conflict would draw a mammoth crowd of spectators. Doubtless such times will come again, but at present both clubs are below their usual high standard. Ten thousand spectators would be rather over than under the actual numbers, but those who absented themselves missed an interesting game. A strong wind blew from end to end and as Sunderland had first benefit they had perhaps the major portion of the attack to their credit in the first half. Unfortunately for them the vanguard was an uneven quantity, for whilst Bridgett and Gemmell stormed the fort, the rest supported them badly. In spite of wind, therefore, Everton were often dangerous in attack, and gained several corners. Taylor, Young, and Sharp tested Naisby to the full, and eventually a pretty sequence of passes between Abbott, Settle, and Young culminated in the latter screwing a superb goal. Balmer was injured and retired and shortly afterwards a great shot by Gemmell found Scott hard pressed, and Shaw scored from the return. At the interval 1-1 about represented the run of the game.
The Wearsiders opened the second half with an old-time run and centre from Willie Hogg, but the Blues soon took command of the game, assisted by the wind. Numerous good shots forced Naisby to give of his best, until a smart centre from Sharp gave Abbott a clear opening, and Walter “hurried up” to some purpose. It is doubtful if Naisby ever saw the shot. The third goal was a curious affair. Sharp tripped to the corner flag with Willis and Watson in close attendance; here the ball went into touch, and both men claimed it. However, something was disturbing the linesman, and following a consultation with the referee, a free kick was given against Willis, to the surprise of all parties. Young bustled the goaler from the kick, and gained a corner; this was splendidly placed by Donnachie, and Bolton tapped to Young, who made full use of the opportunity. From this point Everton won as they liked, and the wonder is that they scored no more points. Sunderland are giants physically, but without the talents of their predecessors Bridgett and Gemmell were easily the best of the forwards, and one regrets to see the decline of Hogg, whose sterling play so thrilled us a few years back. Farquhar was the best of the halves, but Shaw, Willis, and Tomlin are promising material. Naisby could not be blamed for any of the goals, and James Watson did many clever things, although not too reliable under pressure. The feature of the Everton team was the revival of Young. He scored two goals and the first of these undoubtedly inspired his comrades, himself, and the spectators generally with new confidence. So pleased were the supporters that Sandy was treated to encouraging cheers for each of the many fine shots he delivered. His return to real form could not have come at a better time. Once again Sharp’s speed and Bolton’s brains prepared the ground for two of the goals, and Bolton also shot finely. Settle did not shoot so much as is usual, but he was the same crafty James in initiatingattack. In the first half Donnachie was starved, but this may have bene a matter of tactics, for he was yet provided upon turning round, and responded excellently, his centres and corner-placing especially always placing the goal in danger; and his form in the second half reminded one forcibly of little Tom Robertson in his prime at Anfield. Donnachie showed Wednesday’s form was all wrong. Scott as usual, performed more than the odd sensational save. Liverpool must “mind the step.”

EVERTON’S FIRST PREPARATION FOR SATURDAY
Liverpool Echo - Monday 26 March 1906
On Saturday next half of Liverpool’s population will probably make the journey to Birmingham in order that they may see the great semi-final; tie between Liverpool and Everton. To-day, Everton included a brine bath in their course of training for their tie. For this purpose they visited Northwich. After indulging in the bath the players adjourned to the Crown Hotel for dinner. Last season the Evertonians visited the baths several times with beneficial results.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 26 March 1906
Although nothing of vert great importance depended on the result of the game at Goodison-park, still the home side entered into the fray with rare spirit, and compensated to a great extent for their poor display against Woolwich. The Blues played good football, and although they had to fight hard in the first half they won comfortably at the finish. Donnachie showed fair form, but the feature of the game was the display of Young. His exhibition was something like that of the “Sandy” of old, whilst his shooting was quite up to the mark. His first goal was a beautiful effort, and the spectators did not forget to acknowledge it, whilst Young himself seemed to be highly pleased. The Blues’ centre forward put on another goal before the finish, so that he had a most successful afternoon. Young has been most unfortunate this season, and no matter how hard he tried he has never been able to get into his proper stride. But his success of Saturday will, no doubt, do him a lot of good, and will go a long way to reinstate him in the good graces of the spectators who regularly visit Goodison-park, whilst it should give Young greater confidence for future matches.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 27 March 1906
The great cup-tie between out local clubs, Everton and Liverpool, takes place next Saturday, and no doubt intending spectators are on the lookout for the best way to reach Birmingham. The railway companies have made excellent arrangements for carrying the big crowd which is sure to follow the teams. A few words here about the trains will no doubt be of interest.
The London and Northwestern Company announce a rapid and cheap service for day and half-day passengers to Witton (two minutes’ walk from the ground) and Birmingham. The first train is due to leave Lime-street at 7.20 a.m., and will be followed by others at intervals of 40 minutes. The half day specials are due to leave at 11 25 and 11 30 a.m. Of course, further particulars can be obtained at Lime-street station.
A comfortable journey to the scene of the semi-final is assured by travelling with Cook’s through excursion on the Midland route, leaving Central Station at 10 a.m.

FOOTBALL FEATURES
Liverpool Echo - Wednesday 28 March 1906
Bee
With reference to the Bradford telegram which invented the news about Everton offering a cool thousand for that smart lad Conlin, I learn that the Everton officials were amazed that such a statement should have been made. They have not had occasion this season but once to negotiate with the Bradford City officials and then it was simply in connection with the cup-tie receipts and not concerning any player or transfer. They have never had a word with Conlin or the club this season otherwise. How the remarkable and incredulous story was manufactured is hard to conceive, for Everton fortunately are far from desirous of importing a new outside left when Hardman is fit and in fine form. The telegram referred to a suggested “swap” – Kitchen and a sum for Conlin-and I only refer to this portion of the story, because I learn that Kitchen’s little boy is far from well. The ex-Everton’s custodian has become as prime a favourite with the West Ham crowd as he was at Goodison, and the fact that he has taken the Southern League club’s penalty kicks with success has given the London critics much to say about him. It did not come as a surprise to Evertonians to see that he had marched from one goal to the other to take penalty kicks, for here he was regarded as the strongest kicker in the city. He was wonderfully powerful in booting, and his drives resembled a shot out of a gun. He has a rival now, for Box, the Burslem custodian was entrusted with a penalty kick on Saturday, and safely put past Foulke.
The training of the local clubs in preparation for the last stage but one progresses satisfactorily. That the directorate in each case should have come to the conclusion that home training is preferable to special seaside courses has given the liveliest satisfaction to practically all the supporters. On other side on Saturday there was a severe injury to a number of the first team.
At Goodison Will Balmer was kicked on the calf, and at Preston Cox was badly hurt. However, I am assured that these two will be right for Saturday’s service. They have not resumed training, rest being what they require.
Yesterday the Blues were at home and to-day they have enjoyed a walk in the country. So as to break the journey Liverpool will visit Tamworth on Thursday, remaining there till the morning of the match. This has been the rendezvous of Newcastle several times, and they stayed there when due to play Birmingham. It is a nice country spot, twenty miles out of the Midland capital.
As showing the enormous interest taken in the match at Birmingham between the locals, it is only necessary to state that the railway companies are besieged with inquiries from intending trippers. The Great Western Railway Company, who have a reputation for punctuality with football excursions, are running a number of specials and the line is being cleared to allow of the excursionists having a clean run through. This means of ensuing punctuality for “half-days” is distinctly novel.

SCRAPS ABOUT SPORT
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 28 March 1906
The Great Western Railway Company are running several special excursions to Birmingham on Saturday in connection with the Everton and Liverpool cup-tie. Trains depart from Woodside Station at 9, 9 15, 11 25, and 11 35 on the morning of the match.

EVERTON AND LIVERPOOL EACH HAVE TWO INVALIDS
Liverpool Echo - Thursday 29 March 1906
LATEST FROM HEADQUARTERS
Bee
On Page 6 will be found a plan of the Villa ground and the prices of admission to the various portions. There was a rumour extensively circulated yesterday that the Liverpool club would be without Cox and Goddard in the great semi-final tie on Saturday owing to illness and injury. There is no substance in the rumour, although I find that in the case of Goddard all is not well. It appears he has had a touch of rheumatics in the shoulder, where a lump has formed, but with medical attention and regular rubbing of the injured part he is quite well now, and there is no need to fear of him not being able to assist his side. It was apparent from the way that Cox reeled when he fell on the Preston ground that he was very badly hurt. He has, in sporting parlance, “been on the easy list” in his preparation, but the club hope to get him fit in time for Saturday. At any rate, he made the journey this morning to Tamworth with the rest of the team. The report this morning was that he was going on most satisfactorily. 
The final selection of the team has been delayed until Saturday morning and the following are the players who left Lime-street Station by the 2.40 train to-day en route for Tamworth;- Goal, Hardy; backs, West and Dunlop; half backs; Parry, Raisbeck, Bradley, and Chorlton; forwards, Goddard, Robinson, Hewitt, Carlin, Raybould, Parkinson, and Cox. The team, accompanied by several directors, will stay at the Castle Hotel during the time they are at the country town, and tomorrow a diversion will be made by a visit to the fine old castle. The reserve teams of the two local organisations are, by arrangement, meeting at Anfield, where there is certain to be a big crowd of people, who would, but cannot get to Birmingham to see the seniors. The team which will represent Liverpool has been selected and is;- Doig, goal; Griffiths and Wilson, backs; Hignett, Lathom, and James Hughes, half-back; Dudley, Gorman, Blanthorne, Graham, and Garside, forwards.
The Everton players this morning took the train to Formby and then walked to Freshfield. All the men are in good condition, with the exception of the brothers Balmer, William, however, is expected to be fit for Saturday. The players leave Liverpool on Saturday morning by the 10.5 train from Lime-street.
A correspondent, “Val,” desires that I should, as in the case of the Everton-Stoke tie last season, inform readers of a suitable meeting-piece where he can arrange with a London friend to meet after the match. Only too pleased. Suitable and central in the spot at which I advise visitors to Birmingham to meet their friends. It is the Fire Station, Old-square, and is within a few yards of the trams which run to and from the Villa ground.
The representatives of the Blues will not be settled upon until to-night; but, hazarding a selection, I fancy the following will be seen out in antagonism to the Reds;- Scott; W. Balmer and Crelley; Booth, Taylor, and Makepeace; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, and Hardman. Many correspondents have written me regarding the team, and one gentleman thinks Tom Booth should not be put on the wings centre-half being his position and “there he is of more value then elsewhere. Taylor, who might change places with him, can play anywhere in the intermediate line with eminent success.”
There is now disguising the fact that the Everton captain has hardly come up to the form one looks to him to produce, and yet while appreciating the compliment paid to John D. Taylor, I cannot upheld anything in the way of a suggestion which would move the mainspring of the Everton team.
A Walton reader subscribes the following; Just a note with regard to the composition of Everton’s half-backs for next week’s encounter with the Reds. I have seen Booth in the last two matches, and have put him down as very poor. On the face of this and Abbott’s good display against Sunderland I should suggest playing him (Abbott) next week, and remove Makepeace to his original position of right half, thus making the line-Makepeace, Taylor, and Abbott. What is your idea to this?
Abbott may be a trifle slow, but his brains are still active.
Another correspondent, “Traveller,” wrote me many days ago a most sensible epistle. But (my apologists) I mislaid his note, and now it would serve no purpose to quote it save in one instance in which he refers to Everton’s lack of big-built men. Taylor’s play is a revelation to “Traveller,” as to all others, and likewise the strides made by Makepeace.
Then there is a line from a contributor bearing an illustrious name, who signs himself “Paddock,” and who finds good words for Sandy Young. His letter;- Referring to letters which have appeared in your valuable football notes, I must say I think some of them are a bit too hard on Young. I quite agree with your correspondent on Saturday, who claims Young as one of the brainiest pivots. I should think after his first goal against Sunderland that a few critics will own that he can shoot all right, but, taking shooting as his weak point, don’t you think that by the way he opens the game out with his passing he quite justifies his place as centre? Several writers urge the inclusion of Dilly, I suppose because he scored twice last time out; but it wants more than just actual scoring to make a first-class centre. How that the semi-final is so near, a little encouragement, perhaps does a long way, and that Young, and, in fact, all the team will play on Saturday as we know they can do, is the wish of yours faithfully.
Young merited commendation on Saturday and it was dealt out according to the measures of his desires, and it was with real satisfaction that I was able to announce his return to form. Readers must not imagine that I am antagonistic to Young, or any other player. I am sure the players of the local clubs would agree with that statement, judging by some letters I have had from some whom I have been obliged to criticism freely. My contention all along has been that Young, apparently not in good health, should have been rested.

THE GREAT FOOTBALL SEMI=FINAL
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 29 March 1906
Liverpool v. Everton.
THE MEN IN TRAINING.
Arrangements of the Teams.
So far as Liverpool and district is concerned, even the Grand National, run tomorrow, is eclipsed in interest by the Cup tie semi-final between Liverpool and Everton on Saturday. We have a Grand National every year, but a football semi-final between our local clubs is unique. As everyone knows, the great event will take place at Birmingham on the ground of the Aston Villa club. Followers of our teams rather complain at being asked to make so long a journey, and even admitting the many difficulties in the way of allocating suitable grounds for the two all-important semi-final matches, they considered that theymight have been better treated. Incidentally it has often been asked why the other tie, that between Newcastle United and Woolwich Arsenal could not have been played at Goodison-park, one of the
BEST APPOINTED ENCLOSURES in the country, instead of at Stoke, not the most attractive or convenient centre. However, the Football Association has issued its fiat, and what the association have said they have said—and there's an end.
Footballers in the district have pretty well reconciled themselves to the position, and according to estimates from competent sources from 8,000 to 10,000 people will travel from Liverpool to Birmingham on Saturday. Over twenty excursion trains will leave the city. Of course the match will not be watched by Liverpool people alone. All football followers appreciate the extra keenness of an encounter between local rivals, and Midland supporters of the game will regard the Liverpool-Everton event as a tit-bit not to be missed. Given fine weather, the handsome ground at Aston-park, one of the very best, will present an appearance worthy of a great occasion.
How are the respective teams viewing the coming encounter? Both are, as usual on these occasions, full of confidence. Of course Liverpool's leadership of the league gives them some ground for claiming superiority lover Everton, whose league performances have been mediocre. But it is common knowledge that league form is no guide to cup-tie form, and beyond this it is equally common knowledge that the meeting of local clubs may result anyhow. The circumstances baffle the prophet; no semi-final tie was ever more open than this. With regard to
THE PREPARATION OF THE TEAMS for this Titanic struggle it may be said that both are taking matters easily. Liverpool have done their training at home. Some weeks ago, previous to meeting Southampton in the fourth round, the men stayed at Blackpool. Then came a stiff series of league matches, which afforded work enough without special training, and it was felt that the men would be better staying quietly at their own homes than living an hotel life. This was rendered possible by the fact that the Liverpool players are not given to modes of life destructive of athletic efficiency. They may be trusted, unlike some football players, to look after themselves, and segregation in a strange town is not necessary. Training therefore has been slight, and it has been done at home. Sprinting and walking has been indulged in at the Anfield ground, but no departure has been made from the ordinary training usual throughout the season. At the time of writing there is uncertainty as to the composition of the eleven. Hardy., the goalkeeper, is certain to play, so also are West and Dunlop, the backs, and Parry, Raisbeck. and Bradley, the half-backs. The composition of the forward line is doubtful, and probably the team will not be definitely chosen until the morning of the match. DIFFICULTIES ARISE from the fact that Cox and Raybould ere both injured. The left winger was accidentally kicked by Orrell on the leg at Preston on Saturday. On Sunday he was unable to walk. Since then he has improved, but whether he will be fit for Saturday a question. He is staying at his home in Blackpool attended by a local doctor. Raybould, Cox's partner, received a kick at Nottingham yesterday week. He was tumble to play last Saturday, and is still in a condition which renders 'him a doubtful starter. He also has the benefit of home life; he has stopped for the last week in his native team of Staveley in Derbyshire.
This afternoon the team, in charge of Mr. Toni Watson, the secretary, left Liverpool for Tamworth, a picturesquely-situated little town is than twenty miles north of Birmingham. Newcastle United always make this place their headquarters when playing in the Midlands. The sylvan beauties of the neighbourhood will be enjoyed in quiet strolls during the interval until Saturday morning,when the team will make the short journey into Birmingham ready for the fray.
The men of Everton have also done their training chiefly at home or in the home district. In recent seasons the directorate have given up the idea of special training at seaside or inland resorts, greater benefit being found in country walks about the district, and incidentally in allowing the players to sleep in their own beds. For some time now the men have been enjoying
RAMBLES IN THE COUNTRY, together with a course of brine baths. Yesterday, for instance, they were out at Sefton in charge of Mr. Wm. Cuff, the secretary. Today they will go to Hoylake, while Freshfield and West Derby have been visited. Brine baths have been taken at Northwich and Stafford with great advantage to the physical condition or the men. It is gratifying to learn that the players are now all sound and in fine health. Exactly who will constitute the - team will not be known until to-morrow, when the directors will hold a meeting and decide the question.  The eleven will be constituted from the following :—Scott, the two Balmers, Hill, Crelly, Booth, Black, Makepeace, Taylor, Abbott, Sharp, Bolton, Young, Cook, Settle, Donnachie, Hardman, and McLoughlin. Although so many names are mentioned, it is unlikely that there will be any material alteration from the recognised league team. If any doubt exists it will probably have reference only to the defence. With each man sound and well, there is material here to make a formidable side. Everton supporters are hoping that the form of Saturday against Sunderland will be reproduced with results which they opine will somewhat disturb the equanimity of the league leaders. The Blues journey to Birmingham direct from Liverpool on Saturday morning. The arrangement is to leave Lime-street on the 10 5 train, arriving in Birmingham at 12 20. This will allow ample time for lunch and then a drive up to Aston-park for a 3 30 kick-off. Of course both teams return to Liverpool on Saturday night, and a rousing welcome will no doubt be accorded to the winners when Lime-street Station is reached.

WEIGHING UP THE CHANCES OF THE CUP QUARTET
Liverpool Echo - Friday 30 March 1906
EVERTON TRANSFER DILLY
Bee
The Liverpool sportsman is up to his eyes in some good things this week. To-day he went to Aintree, to-morrow he will wend his way towards Birmingham, and next Saturday Hooton will be a nice welcome change. Every note about the Everton and Liverpool clubs that has been procurable has been given in this column, so now it simply remains to point out the chances of the four remaining clubs in the enticing competition for the Cup. To my mind, when considering the great Liverpool meeting at Aston, it is a case of pay your money and take your chance as to which will win. On the one hand we have Liverpool at the head of the League table, this in itself showing consistency. On the other we have the inconsistency of their Goodison Park rivals, but a most determined and distinguished revival to form of former years. In the recent years of Cup tie, Everton have been more prominent than their adversaries of tomorrow, and there is absolutely nothing in this year’s tournament to allow any partisan toc row over another, for, while Liverpool scraped through with Leicester Fosse and Barnsley, and walked away with Brentford and Southampton, Everton readily accounted for Chesterfield and West Bromwich Albion, to get a ninety-minutes’ victory against Bradford City; while with a stunning game in the fourth round they beat Sheffield by a narrowest margin. The result of the meeting to-morrow it is impossible to foretell. May the best team win. Lime-street and other stations will be the scene of jubilation on Saturday night, and it will undoubtedly be a memorable one, whichever team wins.
I am asked to contradict the rumour which has got about, that there are no more tickets available for the London and North-Western Railway trips. One of their representatives tells me that the company is prepared for all emergencies, and that special reserve forces will be in waiting, and, if necessity demands, will be put into use without the slightest delay. The engines to be used are the precursors, and I am confident that all the companies will satisfactorily carry Liverpool to Birmingham.
Whilst Liverpool and district will naturally supply the bulk of the visitors, trains are being run from all parts of the country- from Swansea and South Wales, from Llandudno and North Wales, from Bristol and the West and two trains will be despatched from London, and make the journey without a stop. The one will run on the Great Western Company’s line from Paddington to Snowhill, the other over the London and North-Western Company’s system from Euston to Witton. Witton Station will be the scene of unwanted activity for the majority of excursionists on the London and Northern-Western Railway will be detrained there. The North-Western alone has arranged to run thirty special trains into Birmingham, thirteen of which will be despatched from Liverpool and district. Many of them will be composed entirely of saloons.
Messrs Cook advertise an excursion from Bristol, Bath, Gloucester, and Cheltenham, and others from Leicester and intermediate stations, Walsall, Worcester,  Coalville, Derby, Manchester, and Liverpool. Thus there seems no reason to doubt that altogether quite 20,000 persons will visit Birmingham.
The directors of the Villa Club and the representatives of the Association have made every arrangement for accommodating the great crowd expected. The gates will be opened at one o’clock, and admission can be secured for 6d. no effort has been spared to get the ground in good condition, and providing no rain falls, it will be in every way suitable for the occasion.
In view of the fear of those travelling by the half-day trains of not being able to get to the ground in time, I am informed that Bullock and Co have received a telegram from the Great Western superintendent at Birmingham stating that he has arranged with the Corporation to have an extra supply of electric cars waiting outside the station for the arrival of Great Western trains. The Mersey railway Company are running trains every three minutes to connect with the Great Western trains.
Tom Dilly
West Bromwich Albion spectators have formed a great attachment for Bruce and Rankin. Since he joined them he has proved just the man they wanted, and after a weak first appearance he has bounded from success. Mr. Harry Keys and Mr. Fred Everson, the latter the youngest secretary of any club in either division was over in Liverpool yesterday and for the Albion he negotiated with Everton for Tom Dilly, the Everton outside left and occasionally centre-forward. The negotiations for his transfer were only carried through after considerable difficulty, the Everton directors being loth to part with the player. He is a forward of undoubted ability. Dilly has shown excellent form in the Lancashire Combination matches. He possesses a fine turn of speed, and can centre accurately. His age is twenty-four, his height 5ft 7in., and his weight 13st 5lb. he was born at Arbroath, and secured several honours in Scotland before joining Everton four seasons ago. He will be included in the team to oppose Leicester Fosse at the Hawthorne. The enterprise of the directors in strengthening the team commends itself to all who wish to see the club win its way back into the first division of the League. One congratulates the Albion, and to Dilly we offer our best wishes.
The Everton directors have placed their ground at the disposal of the Association to play off the final tie for the Amateur competition on Saturday next, which has proved such a great success this year.
It was arranged if Everton had to play their Combination match with Oldham Athletic we had Liverpool F.C ground, but if they could move the date with Oldham to allow Liverpool and Everton Combination clubs to play then we had Everton ground.

EVERTON PLAYER TRANSFERRED
Liverpool Evening Express - Friday 30 March 1906
The teams to represented Liverpool and Everton in the semi-final of the English Cup have not yet been selected, but whoever the players are a great struggle may be anticipated. Those who are unable to journey to Birmingham to-morrow will be enabled to see the great trial of strength between the second elevens of Liverpool and Everton. The game takes place at Anfield, and the kick-off is timed for 3.30.
Representatives of the West Bromwich Albion club visited Everton yesterday, and secured from that club the transfer of Thomas Dilly. The negotiations for his transfer were only carried through after considerable difficulty, the Everton directors being very loth to part with the player. He is a forward of undoubted ability. Dilly has shown excellent form in the Lancashire Combination matches. He possesses a fine turn of speed, is clever, and can centre accurately. His age is 24, his height 5ft 7in., and his weigh 12st 5lb. He was born at Arbroath, and secured several honours in Scotland before joining Everton four seasons ago. He will be included in the team to oppose Leicester Fosse at the Hawthorns to-morrow.

EVERTON v  LIVERPOOL
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 31 March 1906
ENGLISH CUP SEMI-FINAL
(Unfortunately the first column of the report is half missing straight down the edge of the newspaper and impossible to guesswhat words are missing)
(Starting from second column )
-check a forward movement by Dunlop and Bradley, but this did not stop Hewitt from effecting a lovely centre, which Scott had to run out to fist away. Meanwhile the dashing Parkinson was in the thick of the fray and looked like scoring, but, luckily for the Blues, their defence, although somewhat flustered, stayed off the attack for the time being. But the Reds came again, and a pass on the left gave Robertson a beautiful chance, but he could only manage to put the leather feebly outside the post. This was a great disappointment to the Liverpool contingent. Now the Blues got a little of their own way, and Parry was called upon to save a rather dangerous looking attack down the centre, but the Welshman proved very cool under fire. Still the Blues extremely dogged in their efforts to get within shooting distance of Hardy, and they were ultimately adjacent to the Liverpool custodian, and he had to rush out and fist away fiercely. The pressure of the Blues increased, and West, Raisbeck, and Parry were all called upon in turn. On one occasion Hardy fisted out in gallant style to clear a beautifully-judged shot from the Everton right and left wing. It was undoubtedly the most interesting and exciting feature of the attack so far. The Reds next retaliated by occupying “toffee” territory, and a very pretty attack came from the left wing and centre, but Crelly came to the rescue in the nick of time. Sharp now dashed down his wing, and Raisbeck was hard pressed, and made a long pass back to Hard. Sharp was again successfully tackled by Raisbeck, but Parry was called upon to deal with the pressure, and only an injudicious pass by Taylor broke up the attack of his own side. Almost immediately afterwards Young came to grass without making good headway. Now came a free kick in favour of the Reds, which Robinson did not make the best use of, but Parry supplied him with the leather and Robbie planted very neatly, the ball just dropping in the region of Scott. Two beautiful centres came from Hewitt, and one of these Goddard shot very wide. The Blues now broke away, and from a free kick Abbott had practically an open goal. But the Evertton half-back, very unlike his usual style, shot very wide of the mark. Goddard soon raced away on his wing, but Crelley proved too alert to allow Robinson to manipulate the ball successfully. Raisbeck initiated the next Liverpool attack, but the defence of the Blues was firm as a rock. Another effort followed from Raisbeck to lead his men to a successful incursion and Goddard received and shot very creditably. The Livers maintained their hold in Everton territory, and Robinson should have scored from a beautiful pass by his partner, but the ball was travelling rather too swiftly, and the chance was lost. Parkinson raced round Taylor and left him standing still, but when he reached the penalty area he stumbled and lost possession near the line. Had he bit manipulated the leather the Livers might have opened their account. This was followed by a pretty centre from Hewitt, who was proving very successful on the left wing. Parry now allowed Young to dibble him, and this led up to a first corner. This was followed up by a dangerous free kick which was taken by Abbott and the speedy leather, swift as an arrow and straight just shaved the crossbar. Hard lines for Abbott! Crelly checked the Liverpool advance momentarily, but a free kick led to an attack of a somewhat feeble character on the Everton line. Dunlop had to respond to an attack on Hardy’s cage, and Makepeace and Taylor succeeded in driving the attack home, and ultimately Hardy was called upon to kick out a beauty from Jock Taylor did not seem satisfied with this, and soon tried another shot, which, however, was wide of the mark. Young, Settle, and Hardman now led an extremely dangerous attack, which resulted a Raisbeck conceding a corner to the amateur. The attack was taken up on the Everton right, and the fusillade on Hardy’s citadel continued merrily. A little more method on the part of the Everton advance guard would have proved successful. Young, too, was anything but dashing when openings presented themselves. The game had been pretty even, but opportunities were thrown away on both sides. The attack of the Livers however, was much more finished than the Blues. The interval now arrived, and it was very evident that both sides had worked each other up to the last ounce and the decisive phases of the battle would be fought out more fiercely in concluding half of the game.
GREAT BLUE VICTORY
EVERTON AGAIN VISIT CRYSTAL PALACE
Restarting Settle took the ball from Young, but Parry was on the qui vive, and sturdy efforts also by Raisbeck and Bradley were necessity. But this did not prevent a mild kind of shot coming from Bolton, which Hardy easily intercepted. A mistake by Bradley let in Makepeace, and a free kick added to the excitement of the Reds, but when the culminating point arrived Bobby’s half-back instinct proved useful, and he effected a timely clearance. Almost determined attack was headed by Hardman, but the amateur was no match for the lengthy Welsh international. The struggle for supremacy became sterner, and once again the Everton defence was seriously threatened by the Livers’ left and Crelly was temporarily knocked out. The Blues now made ground on the left, and Taylor improved a throw-in, and this led up to a free kick within a few feet of the corner flag, which, however, did not improve Everton’s position. The opposing teams seemed to be wonderfully well balanced, and at this point and the game it was difficult to heard an opinion as to which side was likely to snatch the victory. It seemed as if a single goal would decide the issue, so keenly was every move and counter-move weighed up and checked. The Livers were most determined, and after a clever bit of work by Goddard and a wide shot the attack was reversed, as Scott had to respond to invitations. The Reds were now attacking in very promising fashion and a throw in was followed by corner. From this Hewitt received from Dunlop, only to put behind. A rapid advance on the part of Everton was checked by Bradley severely tackling Sharp, who was dangerous but the ball was manoeuvred into the penalty area, where Abbott was waiting, and he, stung on his deadly drive found the net to the consternation of the supporter of the Reds. This success was received with fierce acclamation by the Everton supporters and the feeling did not subside for some time. It was a well-deserved goal, for the Blues were striving with mite and main, and had accomplished many brilliant artistic movements which had proved abortive.
Final Result Everton 2 goals, Liverpool Nil.
THROUGH EVERTON EYES
(By F.E.H)
Of course we approach the contest in confidence. Semi-finals are nothing new to us, and we have invariably been lucky when pitted against Liverpool. There was just a shade of excitement the air when we actually faced the lads in red. Birmingham had quite caught the occasion and the Villa supporters rolled up their in their thousands to swell the crowd of witness at the same time a veritable tale of giants. Regret was felt that Tom Booth was unable to lead his men to the field and to victory, but Abbott’s inclusion after his brave display against Sunderland last week was reassuring, further reluctant absentee was William Balmer, but his brother Robert was there to fill the breach. A glance round the packed enclosure showed that quite as many Anfielders were present as Evertonians. Liverpool evidently had supporters as many as us. Still looking back over past achievements, we have no reason to doubt the issue. Were we not really top dog at Fallowfield four years ago, and did we not give the Villa a shaking up at the Palace? If we could do that in the final, surely the penultimate stage should not affright us. Nevertheless, one cannot help remembering that there is many a slip betwixt the cup and ourselves. Honest Jock Taylor led his men onto the field a few minutes before the fateful hour, and a mighty roar went up. Spite and span and sprightly they all looked in their blue and white -a tribute to brine baths and fresh air. The roar that greeted our arrival had scarcely die away when Liverpool appeared. Their welcome was even warmer, but this in no way discomfited us; we were content to wait and see what we should see, as they say in France. Then Taylor and Raisbeck shook hands amidst a great fraternal outburst of cheering, and we won the toss. There was little advantage in this, however, for there was no sun or wind. Hardman and Settle at once showed that they meant business for they went off from the mark like a veritable bolt from the blue. West cleared, at the Reds pressed hard, but Abbott checked; showing his best form. Still the Anfielders came again as though the fate of the Empire rested upon their shoulders, and it was only Scott magnificent custodian that kept the invaders out. The Irishmen, luckily for us, was at the top of his form, and the way in which he threw himself into the thick of the fray was magnificent to witness. He is a splash of blue in a sea of red. Never was a goalkeeper seen to great advantage and surely never were service more urgently needed. The pressure of the Anfielders was terrific. It was not merely thin red line that assailed us; it was a whole my corps. Young Balmer, however, at last managed to clear the lines, and for the first time we enjoyed something like our fair share of the game. Sharp sprinted magnificently, and it was hard line when Bolton was robbed at the eleventh hour. Hewitt kept pegging away, and showed our adversaries what clever footwork really is. Hardman raced along, and put in a glorious centre, which Hardy had to deal with, at a moment later Sharp was again on the warpath, but could not find the ball. Our forwards now settled down to serious work, and it was no exaggeration to say that they were giving the Reds a rare pulling up. Sandy Young threaded his way through and animated knitting needle, and was within a few feet of Hardy when Dunlop nipped in and cleared. We were now giving the Anfielders sec as we used to say in Germany and the Everton war cry sounded high over the historic that looked so condescendingly down on the field. Beautiful work by Taylor, Settle, Young and Bolton all had a chance of distinguishing themselves but they decline the offer, and were beaten back upon our own defences. Matters were looking rather bad for us when Makepeace came to the recue and once more our forwards took up the running. West administered a check, but it was promptly crushed, and Abbott coming through on his own account shot just over. Had Abbott scored Everton would have had prior claim for the Palace. Football enthusiasm please note this ecclesiastical! Despite our attention the Anfielders would persist in making encroachments on our territory and it was only Crelly’s cleverest coupled with Makepeace’s help, that the goals were kept at bay. A little bit of friction between Settle and Parry ended in the forward being rather violently grassed, but the game was not long delayed. Matters for some time after this were fairly on, and there was really not much to choose between us. Sharp, however, forced the game, passing to Young. The latter was only prevented from scoring at the expense of a corner. We were now gibing our best football through taste of our quality and
(Few lines missing at bottom of newspaper) the ball sped from his toe like a shot from a gun only to go skimming over the cross-bar. This indeed, was a narrow shave for the Anfielders, and they had reason to thank their lucky stars. Fortune then turned her attention to us, but she was not prodigal in her gifts for a splendid shot by hardman went inches side a tremendous drive by Taylor was fisted out by Hardman Abbott then had another try, but, as already hinted, the fickle goodness was not on our side, and the shot also went wrong. The Interval was now drawing nigh and we put on great pressure, in order, not only to gain the lead, but to show that we really were the better side. Hardman made a supreme effort centreing magnificently, but to everyone’s surprise the ball was allowed to pass harmlessly across the goal mouth. We were all forced to the conclusion that this would not gain us victory. But a gleam of hope came when Sharp and Bolton put their best feet foremost and waltzed daintily along the line.
Alas! there was no one up to meet the ball, and one more golden opportunity had passed into the hereafter. Then came the half-time whistle, and the great tension was temporarily relieved. On reviewing the forty-five minutes, we had no reason to fear the concluding portion of the game. We had distinctly more of the attack than our opponents, but common honesty compels one to admit that we did not make the best of the openings provided. After all, when you come to think of it, the half-backs cannot be expected to do everything. The interval was passed in the singing of choruses, more or less gleeful, and in a twinkling of an eye we were at it again. The ground is now packed in every part and the roars that accompanied the various movements of the ball are all inspiring. The first item of interest was a glaring mistake by Bradley, but Makepeace was just too late to turn it to advantage. We were then put strictly on the defensive after this, but, by fine work by Balmer and Makepeace, Scott was not troubled, although the Anfielders were in deadly earnest.
THE CASE FOR LIVERPOOL
(by Jay Cee)
When the Football Editor of the smartest evening paper in the provinces (of all newspapers, price one half-penny), ordered me to the front at Birmingham, with the object of reviewing the great game from an Anfielder’s point of view, I “swelled visibly,” I felt I was on a good thing right away, and that the task would prove congenial to myself. I don’t mind telling you, dear reader, that in my humble opinion the Anfielders are the finest professional team in the country. Now, don’t mention Notts County, please! I know all about Notts. I arrived at my conclusions with regard to the Liverpool team from results pure and simple; And I believe that admirable institution, yelped the League, recognise no other method of deciding the merits of the clubs under its jurisdiction. We all know the individual merits of Newcastle United, but individuality doesn’t make a successful football team, at Newcastle people must have found out by this time. It is always dangerous to prophesy unless you know, and goodness only knows what may happen in a Cup-tie; but coming down in the train I stood aghast at the absolute “cocksuredness” of a lot of couple wearing blue and white favours, I know that the battle is not always to the strong, and that the best team sometimes loses, as may possibly be the case to=-day; but not for the life of me could I understand anyone arguing that Everton were the more classy and the better team, and were sure to win. Class be blowed! Some people Goodison way tell me Liverpool are a team of opportunists, and have been lucky in arriving at their resent position. That is just where I differ. No team can be described as lucky that finds itself at the head of affairs at the end of March. Pure luck doesn’t usually extend over a period of seven months. The Reds of Anfield gave gained their present position by cheer merit, and win or lose to-day none can dent their ability. Did such a calamity corner, it would be but one more illustration of the glorious uncertainty of the game. Tis the same glorious uncertainty that brought this vast crowd to Aston to-day. From those few remarks, no doubt, it will not require a Sherlock Holmes to find out my polities in this little matter. But that reminds me of other people’s polities. One gentleman sent best part of the time between Rock Ferry and Brum eulogising the members of the Everton team. He knew the pedigrees of all from Scott to Young, and argued the Everton case like a Blackpool auctioneer-so much that for the moment I felt giddy and almost vacillated. But when the same gent, later on, openly avowed that he’d “got Liverpool on the cowpens” I retired into a corner of the saloon and spent the remainder of the journey studying Esperanto. “But that’s another story,” as Backyard Pipling would say, and I must now cut the cackle and come to the homes. It is my first experience of the Villa ground, and I congratulate the Aston people on being in possession of such a magnificent enclosure.
Mr. J.J. Bentley used to refer to Everton’s “home” as one of the finest playing pitches in the country, but the Villa ground just about fills the bill in this respect. At the last moment Liverpool decided to make an important change, but I was shocked to hear ten minutes before the start that Raybould was also hors de combat. The result was a general mix-up of the front rank. “Parky” operated at the centre, with Joe Hewitt on the extreme left, in company with Carlin. Of course I did not know this when I set out to write the match, but I might have modified my views anyhow. Hang me if I twist at this stage! I pin my faith to the “Pool,” May the best team win, and may that team by Liverpool. As regards Everton they also made a change, Tom Booth dropping out in favour of the good old Abbott, which change enabled Makepeace to come back to his old spot. Taylor led on his men at 3.25 amid a burst of cheering, which however, was as nothing compared with the applause which greeted Raisbeck and his men in brand new scarlet jerseys. For the first few minutes after Parkinson started the game there was neither one thing nor the other, for both sides suffered from the importance of the occasion. The Blues certainly made the first advances, but Raisbeck was “all over the shop,” and thrice checked ominous Booth. The first bit of excitement came when Goddard found Scott “out in the country” and tipped in a beauty, but the Irishman fortunately was right in the way, and he saved an awkward situation.  Parry shook Settle up and caused a stop-page, but the little man soon resumed The Reds were none too sure at the start, but once they found their feet the people in charge of the Everton defence knew about it. Twice within a minute was Scott’s goal in absolute danger. On one occasion Parkinson took a flying centre from Hewitt and headed into Scott’s hands, but a second or two later Robinson had a perfect gift of a goal, but he tamely put outside. There were perfect chances and in less exciting circumstances I would have laid odds on a goal each time. Following up all this the Reds struck quite a bad patch and for some minutes were tied up. One time the Goodison crowd chuckled with joy, but it only served to bring out the quality of the Liverpool defence. Hardy was tested four times in 30 seconds, but no keeper ever responded better, and the independents in the crowd cheered him lustily. Twenty minutes slipped by, and still the team had failed to settle down. Play was exciting enough, in all conscience; but slip after slip occurred, and chance after chance went by, neither attack being half so reliable as usual. This gave the defence opportunities which they made the most of, and while both custodians kept their heads, Raisbeck stood out by himself Joe Hewitt, evidently bent on making a sorties in the old style, dribbled across the centre and drove a hurricane shot just over the bar. An inch or two lower, and goodness knows what might have happened. The Reds were mightily busy hereabout, and both “Parky” and “Robbie” somehow messed some very good openings. Exactly thirty-three minutes had gone before the Blues took the first corner in the game. This will give you people at Liverpool some idea of the difference of the attack and defence. Hardman caused a lump in my throat with a terrific dash on the left which ended with a perfect centre.
The word “Goal” was already formed on my mouth; but, thanks first to Bradley and then Dunlop, I breathe freely again. Just a few minutes were required now to reach the interest and though the tension was fully unpairedboth sides struggled. Hardy and Scott retiring with clean hands. The interval came as a relief, and was especially welcomed by those who suffered from heart trouble. It gave the great crowd time to unbend and discuss the pros and cons. Personally I think the game wonderfully even, and if Everton did appear to press there was no denying the chances that the Reds, had. Once when Robertson was the artist it seemed all Lombard-street to the proverbial Chinaorange on a goal, but “Robby” failed to steady himself.
The second stages opened quietly enough, the first advance coming as before from Everton. Young once or twice had the ball all to himself, which brought forth loud shouts of “Now, Sandy!”
(New few lines missing on bottom of page)
Hewitt were always tryers, but Robinson was terribly slow when he was well placed. Seventeen minutes after the restart the Reds took their first corner. Just previous to this little Carlin was almost through when Balmer whipped the ball away.
At last a goal! In choirs and places where they sing. Here followedthe anthem and what an anthem it was that greeted Abbott’s first goal.
After the confusion worse confounded. The shock to the Reds which followed Abbott’s goal had not subsided, and while they were muddling around in a dazed and helpless way hang me if Hardman didn’t chip in with another.
What ho! Nothing to choose between them for an hour, and then two goals on the wrong side in as many minutes. Well ‘twas ever thus for do when not recollect the League match at Goodison this season, when the Reds were every bit as good, and yet lost by a couple of goals.

LIVERPOOL v  EVERTON
Liverpool Football Echo - Saturday 31 March 1906
LANCASHIRE COMBINATION-DIV 1
The Lancashire Combination match between Liverpool and Everton, which was played at Anfield this afternoon, attracted a crowd of quite respectable dimensions, some 10,000 who were present being favoured with very fine weather. Teams;-
Liverpool.- Doig, goal; Griffiths and Wilson, backs; Hignett, Latham, and James Hughes, half-backs; Dudley, Gorman, Blanthorne, Graham, and Garside, forwards.
Everton.- Collins, goal; Wildman and Hanah, backs; Black, Chadwick, and Donaldson, half-backs; Birnie, McLoughlin, Wright, Cooke, and Butler, forwards.
Everton had to face the wind, but were the first to attack, a centre from Birnie going over the goal-line. A free kick against the Blues led to a very stiff attack on their goal, but the ball was scraped away from the front, and Birnie was soon speeding down his wing, Wilson spoiling him at the finish. A foul against Everton led to a further raid on the visitors’ goal, and a little later a fine centre came from Dudley, Blanthorne heading over. Garside shot over the crossbar, and from a free kick Dudley shot into Collin’s hands. The attack was continued and finally Graham scored the first goal for Liverpool. Then Everton made an abortive attack, Garside breaking away and making a good run, at the end of which he scored a pretty goal. Wilson sent up the field again, and the left wing made a rush to the front of the Everton goal Collins coming out and spoiling Blankthorpe when he appeared certain to score. Everton put in a lot of pretty work, which went for nothing, and Liverpool replied by forcing a corner. At the end of a right attack by Everton McLaughlin nearly scored, and at the other end Garside had very hard lines, after which Doig brought off a fine save in reply to Birnie, and again cleared his goal from Wright. Shortly afterwards the Blues had Doig fairly beaten, but Wright failed to net the ball. The same player had two more chances, but missed on each occasion, Everton gained a barren corner, after which Collins saved from Dudley, and again from Blankthorpe. Doig made several fine clearances, and then Birnie forced a corner. Blankthorne nearly headed through from a corner gained by Liverpool, and the same player broke through, but shot widely at the finish. -Half-time; Liverpool 2 goals, Everton nil
When the teams recommenced play there would be upwards of 15,000 people present. A few minutes after the restart Everton were granted a penalty, which was taken by Hannah, but Doig saved. A fine run and shot then came from McLaughlin, and again Doig saved. However, the Blues kept pegging away, but everything they did went wrong. At the end of a brief attack by Liverpool they also had the benefit of a penalty, and from this James Hughes had an easy task in scoring. Collins scarcely having a look at the ball until it was safe in the net. Just afterwards Blankthorne should have augmented the score, but let the chance slip. Knight and Birnie scored for Everton and Gorman scored for Liverpool. Final;- Everton Res 4, Everton Res 2

BIRMINGHAM INVADED
Liverpool Evening Express - Saturday 31 March 1906
Big Football Crowd in the Midland
(FROM. OUR OWN REPORTERS.)
Birmingham, Saturday Morning. The weather outlook was bright and promising in the Midland capital this morning. Liverpool excursionists found the city looking its best. The trains of the Great-western, London and Northwestern, and Midland were well filled, and they rolled in at New-street and Snow -hill stations well up to the scheduled times. Not only Liverpool, but other large centres sent their quota of spectators to the match. There were Cockneys among the crowd in the street on football bent, and Wales was exceedingly well represented. Never before have our local teams appeared before so mixed a crowd as made its way out to Aston to-day. It was interesting to hear the keen discussions on the prospects of the great match. Liverpool were undoubtedly favourites among Birmingham people and strangers from distant parts.  Their League position could not be got over in weighing up the chances, and in this connection the number of their away wins had to be taken into account. But while Liverpool have done uncommonly well this season , their League meetings with Evertors show a great superiority for the Evertonians . The interclub League records is as follows:
PLAYED 19 Matches.
Liverpool Won 3 Lost 10 Drawn 6 Goals 23
Everton Won 10 Lost 3 Drawn 6 Goals 40
In the Cup competition also Everton have the best of matters, for they have more often than their opponent; made cup tie history. As between each other the teams are level, as may be seen from the following statement of their cup tie meetings:—
PRECIOUS CUP MEETINGS.
Liverpool-Everton
1902-First round 2-2 Anfield
Replay Liverpool 2-0 at Goodison
1905- First Round 1-1 Anfield
Replay Everton 2-1 Goodison
The full Cup-tie history of the clubs is givenelsewhere but it is worthwhile to recall in the first place the steps by which the teams have reached the semi-final stage. Both have had easy journey.  Liverpool have not had to meet a first division team, their opponents having been Leicester Fosse (beaten 2-1) Barnsley (1-0), Brentford (2-0), and Southampton (3-0). They have scored, therefore eight goals to one. Everton defeat West Bromwich Albion (3-1), Chesterfield (3-0), Bradford City (1-0), and Sheffield Wednesday 4-3, the -total goals being 11 t0 4 in favour of the Blues. The semi-final is the first occasion the clubs have been called on to play away from home, and it was felt, Anfield away at all events, that neutral ground gave some advantage to the Reds, who have done great deeds this season on foreign soil.
Everton, however, have had such a revival lately that their supporters were full of hopes. As to the composition of the teams, last thing.  Liverpool took reserves with them to Tamworth, where they enjoyed a pleasant day yesterday. The weather was gloriously fine, and this morning Mr. Tom Watson, the secretary, reported all well, a notable exception, however, is Cox, who is a doubtful starter to the last owing to his injured leg
sustained at Preston last Saturday. The men all spent a quiet night after a country walk yesterday afternoon, and were delighted with their surroundings. They travelled into Birminghamafter midday. Everton had not adopted this system. They kept up to the last the idea, of home training; and the night previous to the match was spent by the players in their ownbeds. This entailed a rather long journey this morning, but it was not expected that the experience would do the men any harm. Long before the time of the match spectators found their way to Aston-park. Wearers of blue rosettes side by side and there were plenty of them seen in the streets. The first train came in soon after ten o'clock, so that the early birds had time for a look round, while the other trains followed in regular sequence. There was room at Aston park for all likely to go there, as the ground holds fully 60,000 people. There was no indication during the forenoon of any pressure but as time appearance, and the red and blue rosettes became more prominent than ever.
EXODUS FROM LIVERPOOL
On every hand in Liverpool this morning, people are reminded of the great football contest favours for taking place at Birmingham, favours for both teams being very largely worn. This notwithstanding the great exodus of enthusiasts by thespecial trains which had been provided by the railway companies. At Lime-street Station, and, also at Central, the excursion trains were well filled with enthusiastic supporters of the game. It was pleasing to note the good-humoured way in which partisans of both sides fraternised together, and it was evident that the very best feeling prevailed. At Lime-street Station special trains were run half-hourly from 7 30 to 12 10, the number of passengers carried being about five thousand.

EVERTON IN THE CUP FINAL
Sports Argus - Saturday 31 March 1906
TWO GOALS IN TWO MINUTES IN SECOND HALF
BIG CROWD AT ASTON
The football atmosphere was charged with electricity this afternoon. The winnowing process was carried another step further this afternoon, when the ties in the semi-final of the Association’s Cup were decided. Keen spirited games were seen at Aston and Stoke, where there were battles for the right of appearing in the final round at the Crystal Palace in a few weeks hence.
Local enthusiasts concentrate their attention on the gigantic struggle between the Liverpool clubs on the Aston Villa ground. The weather was congenial, and there was a remarkable display of enthusiasts. Never previous in the history of the game have more Liverpool people witnessed a match in Birmingham. At an early hour of this morning heavily laden trains began to arrive in Birmingham, and as the masses swarmed out in the streets they presented a very animated appearance. Judging by the outward and visible signs, both teams had an equal following, while local people displayed little partisanship. Long before the hour of the kick off there was a constant stream of pedestrians Aston wards. Before the gates were open people were seeking to gain admission. An hour before the start the playing pitch was hemmed in by dense masses, and there appeared every likelihood of an attendance of between 50,000 and 60,000.
There were important changes in both teams. The Liverpool defence remained intact. In the forward rank Cox was absent, and this was regarded as a serious blow to the Anfield-road side. Hewitt was brought from centre to fill the outside left position, and Carlin partnered him. Parkinson went centre, in which position he operated prior to his injury at the beginning of the season, and Robertson and Goddard were the right-wing pair. The Everton attack was formed by the customary men, but in the defence Balmer gave way to Crelly. The teams lined out as follows;-
Liverpool; Hardy; West, Dunlop; Parry, Raisbeck (captain), Bradley; Goddard, Robinson, Parkinson, Carlin, Hewitt.
Everton.- Scott; R. Balmer, Crelly; Makepeace, Taylor (captain), Abbott; Sharp, Bolton, Young, Settle, HP Hardman.

Referee, Mr. F.H. Dennis. Linesmen, Messrs. E. Case (Birkenhead), and W. Whittaker (London).
Everton, wearing colours similar to those of Birmingham, were on the field first, and were accorded a big reception. Liverpool followed later, and the appearance of the vermilion clad men was the signal for a great burst of cheering. The ground was in perfect condition, and there was hardly breath of wind, as the rival captains, Raisbeck and Taylor, went to the centre to toss. Taylor was successful, and Liverpool started towards the Great Hall end. Able touches by the flaxen0haired Raisbeck appeared likely to start his men on the attack, but the opposing half-backs were taut and trim, and repulsed the attack. Everton threatened danger on the right wing, but the attack was beaten back, and two blunders by the Liverpool wing men marred useful opportunities. Liverpool, however, appeared the greater aggressors, and a swinging centre from the left wing endangered the Everton position. Scott dashed out, and, leaping into the air, cleared though surrounded and harassed by three or four opponents. Liverpool warmed to their work and again Scott was in the thick of the fight, and conducted himself very bravely. But, despite his activity, Robinson very narrowly missed touching a centre past him. For a lengthy spell Liverpool were well within their opponents’ lines, but Everton eventually beat off the attacks and began a rousing onslaught, during which Hardy viciously hit away some well-directed and terrific shots. Everton’s attack came mostly from the right wing, from which Sharp, the ex-Villa man, was a source of trouble to Bradley and Dunlop. So far it had been a magnificently contested game, the football being fast and clean and highly worthy of the occasion. There was very little suspicion of the kind of rivalry usually seen in the fights between near neighbours. There was plenty of honest robust charging, accurate passing, and method, and the vivacious work of both sides provided the spectators-estimated at 45,000-with plenty over which to enthuse. The play veered from end to end, and if there was one thing lacking it was accurate targetry. Everton were perhaps the greater offenders, but Liverpool made more than one blunder. The feature of the game so far was the superb work of Raisbeck-the prince of centre halves. Many were the shots that skimmed the Everton cross-bar, but Scott was keen-eyed, quick-witted, and nimble, and he watched them all out of danger. Robinson failed to utilise a sweet pass from Goddard, but a minute or so later excellent passing by Sharp and Bolton jeopardised Liverpool’s position. Young threatened to work his way through, but in order to stop him Dunlop conceded a corner. This was of no avail, and the play went back to midfield. After a brief onslaught by Everton Goddard slipped away at the speed of a grey-hound and centred superbly and as Carlin was attempting to turn this to account Scott snatched the ball of his toe and swung it away. It passed to the Everton right wing, who careered away and instituted a desperate attack, during which the Liverpool goal had many hairbreadth escapes, Young and Settle just failing by inches in making the best of their opportunities.
Half-time;- Liverpool 0, Everton 0

When the second half opened, Everton promptly set to work and clever touches by Bolton very nearly ended in Hardy being outmanoeuvred. Liverpool quickly retaliated and Scott again distinguished himself. The game [reserved its evenness, and there were exciting incidents on the threshold of both goals. Parkinson threatened to work his way through, and here-abouts the Anfield-road men were seriously harassing the Goodison Park men’s defence. Everton fought gallantly, and about twenty minutes after the interval a remarkable change came over the game. Everton, the non-favourites, got two goals in as many minutes, and appeared safe for the final. The change was effected in this manner. Everton went sweeping along, and getting within touch, the ball was returned to Abbott, the old Small heath player. Taking steady aim Abbott drove terrifically at goal, and the ball struck Dunlop’s foot and turned into the net. It was a very lucky point, but Abbott’s work deserved some such reward.
No sooner had the ball been started from the centre than it was in the mouth of the Liverpool goal. It went out to Sharp, who whipped it on to the left wing. Hardman skipped in, and getting his head to the ball, directed it past hardy. The Everton section of the crowd went wild with delight, and there was just cause.
Such a sudden change was sufficient to damp the ardour of the Anfield-road men, but they worked away gallantly, and for five minutes they swarmed round the Everton goal like bees round a jam pot. Again and again they appeared likely to force the ball over the line, but Scott was a modern Briareus.in the losing stages  Everton showed the much better form, there being a splendid understanding between all the line, particularly among the forwards, who were led in brilliant fashion by Young. A foul was awarded to Everton close in, and Sharp from the free kick placed the ball to hardman. The latter headed it into the centre for Young, who, in an obviously off-side position, placed the ball into the net, Hardy falling full length in trying to effect a save. This was the last incident, as the whistle sounded a second later.
Result- Everton 2 Liverpool 0
THE GAME AT A GLANCE
After 64 minutes’ play – Everton 1 Liverpool 0 (Abbott scored)
After 65 minutes’ play-  Everton 2 Liverpool 0 (Hardman scored)
GOSSIP ON THE GAME
It is three years since we had a semi-final on the Villa ground. The teams who then appeared before the impartial Birmingham public, it will be remembered, were Millwall and Derby County. No better place than the Aston Villa ground could have been chosen for the battle of Liverpool. Though the attendance looked like threatening the record for the ground- which I believe is 48,000 and some odd hundreds -everyone, or nearly everyone, could see, from the Merseyside merchant with his red or blue rosette in his five shilling seat in the grandstand to the small boy on the coffee stall at the back of the Aston goal, and not excluding one or two onlookers perched in the trees in the park.
The Surrey poet, had he been present, would doubtless have described the match as the “tit-bit of the round.” Here we were with a local fight and a semi-final all rolled into one. One gentleman with Midland prejudices to be sure was overheard to express the wish that it had been Aston Villa and Birmingham at the Palace, but then some people are never satisfied. Spring cleaning had been in progress in the Villa enclosure. The turf liked a billiard table- a bit worn in places though- while the goal posts had a fresh coat of paint. The cinematograph man walked to the middle of the field, surveyed it all with satisfaction, and decided to “take” the surroundings before he went any further.
Neither of the clubs who were providing the entertainment have ever won the Cup, but Everton have twice done the next best thing, besides fighting a host of semi-finals. It was argued by their supporters that they could not always be knocked out in the penultimate stage, and that really they are a better side than the League table would represented. Their reception showed them to be well supported. On the other hand, the League leaders were evidently slight favourites. When the boys in the dazzling new red shirts came on the shout that went up must have been heard almost to Corporation-street. Cox had not sufficiently recovered from his injury to participate and Hewitt, who has been the pivot of the side, had to be cast for the outside left part, with Parkinson in the centre. The latter led the team on to victories in the Second Division last year, but was injured at Woolwich early in the present season. The reorganisation detracted somewhat from Liverpool’s advantage on paper, and some of the gentlemen present with the big crimson umbrellas shook their heads ominously. There was no wind to affect the game, so Taylor gained nothing by winning the toss. Both sides seemed to feel the greatness of the occasion at the outset, and there was nervous keenness about the half-backs that cramped operations. Liverpool appeared a trifle the quicker lot, but Sharp came along with a rousing run, and Hardy had to make a mighty leap to push away the centre. Apart from this Liverpool were more aggressive, and Parkinson, Robinson, and Raisbeck were all well on the mark. While trying to break away, Settle received a kick in the mouth, and the incident did not improve his usefulness for some time. The flaxen-haired captain the Reds loomed large in the exchanges, and while checking Young’s devices he kept his own wings very well oiled. It was just as well that Balmer and Crelly were at their soundest. Hewitt’s outside play was not exactly convincing, and the brighter wing flashes came from Goddard, whose centres on two occasions fell right at the feet of his colleagues in front of goal. Scott, however, was too quick for Carlin both times. The right wing might have been utilised rather more than it was for Hewitt’s centring discounted his dribbling. The most effective man in the line in the first half as Robinson, whose footwork was delightful. The Liverpool halves and forwards were better together than Everton. When it came to the background of the defence, the “Toffeyites” looked a trifle safer. Although they had less of the play, Everton had the easier chances. During the first “45” Bolton and Settle should both have improved on chances. Sharp’s was the more prominent wing, and the ex-Villa and Hereford man was frequently reminded that his Birmingham friends had not forgotten him. The quality of the football transcended the cup-tie average.
It was diamond cut diamond, and there were plenty of those clean, crisp passing movements that appealed to the crowd.
Every move was recognised by the crowd, who picked out the merits of the respective sides without fear or favour.   Everton missed one glorious opening after a corner, the ball passing over the right wing when half the Liverpool goal lay open to aim, but the marksman, the moment required, was not present. Dunlop’s volleying was the feature of the Liverpool defence. On three or four occasions he sent the ball half the length of the field. Parry was doing well against Hardman and Settle, who had few opportunities to shine. Taylor was not so conspicuous as the rival skipper, but he was all there, nevertheless. Even more so was Makepeace. The latter had selected the occasion for giving a taste of his best qualities. Abbott retains his useful habit of speculative drives at certain infinitesimal points along the roof of the goal. Hardy grew to look out instinctively when he ahd the ball and alertness was fully necessary. As it happened it fell to the ex-Small Heath man to open the scoring. Dunlop turning a low drive into his own net. The Liverpool defence was not well disposed at this critical moment, and to that mainly must be attributed the downfall of the goal. Their victorious career has affected the Liverpool half-backs’ care for their own goal. Raisbeck’s face wore a troubled expression as Liverpool wandered back dejectedly to the centre. Abbott’s hand was being wrung off and the Everton chimes were in full swing on the stands.

Nothing succeeds like the first goal, and within a minute Sharp had paved the way for a second. After a lucky dribble he flicked the ball across the heads of the Liverpool backs, and Hardman, running in, headed through in the simplest fashion. Gamely as they fought, Liverpool could make no impression on the Everton last line. Balmer and Crelly were wonderfully quick on the ball and always made sure where they were sending it. Liverpool’s disarranged attack may have hampered them, but they were let down principally by their defence, which tempted fate much too often. Victory went undoubtedly to the better side. The Reds will have to be content with the championship-if they win it! It will be Everton and Newcastle at the Palace.
EVERTON’S SUCCESS
Mr. McGREGOR’S SNAPSHOT OF  THE GAME
Today’s match at Villa Park may safely be described as a fine game, which was very evenly contested. Everton won because they took their opportunities. The best football was witnessed in the first half, in which, however, there were some mis-kicks on both sides. Liverpool were upset in the second half by the goal which Dunlop unfortunately put through his own goal. This upset his comrades, and they never seemed afterwards to pull themselves together. This was particularly marked in goal. They never seemed to get the better of Everton, while their opponents played a very much improved game. The victory was well deserved and popular. Perhaps the feature of the game, so far as individual play was concerned, was the wonderful form of Raisbeck, who was worth any two men on the field. Dunlop was the better of the backs on the defended side, his long kicking being another feature of the game. Parry was a powerful half-back, but was not discreet in his methods. I thought Robinson was the best of the forwards, while Parkinson was not quick enough, the opposing backs frequently getting free-kicks. On the winning side Scott performed splendidly in goal, although some of his saves were risky. The backs played superb football, especially in the second half of the game. The half-backs improved immensely in the second half, and Makepeace was the best of the bunch. Taylor was very useful, and Abbott, one was pleased to notice, had not lost his propensities for pot-shooting. Hardman showed some pretty football and Sharp and Bolton made a very good wing. Young was prominent, but was inclined to lie offside. Everton’s victory, as already pointed out was well deserved, and very popular.
GATE AT ASTON
The official return of the attendance at the Cup-tie at Aston Villa is 37,000 and the gate receipts amounted to £1,700.