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Everton Independent Research Data
April 1, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Tranmere Rovers;- Foster, goal; Anderson and Owen (captain), backs; Hornby, Bell and Kieran, half-backs; Wheeler, Glidden, Alder, Williamson, Jackson (J.P.), forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (J.E.) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; Jackson, Bentham, Wyles, Wainwright, and McIntosh, (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. W. Evans (Liverpool). A crowd of over 3,000 at Prenton Park saw a lively opening to this first leg of the Liverpool Senior Cup semi-final. The Rovers were the first to threaten danger, with an attack up the middle but Alder put his intended pass out to Wheeler into touch. Wyles was given a clear opening by Wainwright but faced with only Foster; was much too hurried in making a left foot drive, and he sliced the ball tamely across goal and well wide of the far post. The game had been going 12 minutes when McIntosh made a square low centre which eluded a number of players in the goalmouth and travelled on to Jackson (G) who lying unmarked made no mistake in driving the ball into the net well out of the reach of Foster to give Everton the lead. McIntosh was most prominent of the Everton forwards, and when he delivered a strong right foot shot from just inside the angle of the penalty area –Foster had all his work cut out to turn the ball behind for a corner. The one-sided character of the game was indicated by the fact that for a quarter of an hour the only call on Burnett was to deal with a long pass back to Jones (J.). When Alder tried to get Jackson (J.P) away he found Burnett emerging a long way from his goal to gather and clear. A sliced clearance by Anderson gave Jackson (G.), who was lying unmarked an unexpected chance, but he shot high and wide. The marksmanship of Everton was faulty, and McIntosh made his first mistake when he shot high over from close in. Jackson (J.P.) centred and Wheeler, had a chance, but fined Greenhalgh cutting across the goalmouth sharply and forcing him to make a hurried centre, which Burnett intercepted. Alder headed in but Burnett saved, and then an Everton spurt produced two goals to McIntosh in quick succession. Three minutes before the interval the winger forced his way through up the middle to place the ball low past Foster, and right off the call of half-time McIntosh moved up in the left and from what seemed an impossible angle drove into the far side of the net.
Half-time; Tranmere 0, Everton 3.
Everton's goal had a lucky escape when a great drive by Glidden hit the underside of the bar and rebounded into play to be cleared. Everton went further ahead at the fiftieth minute, McIntosh putting the ball across to Bentham to score from 25 yards. After 68 minutes Jackson made a shot that was passing wide, but McIntosh got to the ball and screwed it into the goalmouth and the ball bounced up to strike Wainwright on the knees and pass into the home net.
Liverpool Evening Express - Monday 03 April 1944
Alex Stevenson, the Everton Irish International Inside-left, was carried off at Tynecastla, on Saturday, with a severely injured ankle. This may necessitate an X-ray examination, and It is doubtful whether Stevenson will be able to play again tor some weeks.
April 3, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Tranmere Rovers 0, Everton 5
McIntosh Shines
Everton were markedly superior to Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park and ran out easy victors by 5-0 in the Semi-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup. The youthful home side had little to command it beyond enthusiasm, for their was no semblances of method in their efforts and the hurly burly arties employed never promised anything material. By contrast the visitors were a well-knit combination and used the ball to good purpose. Grant and Wainwright were skilful wing halves who made takable passes along the ground, and Bentham and Wainwright were clever schemers in an attack to which the shinning light was McIntosh, who crowded a fine display with two capital goals. Everton did not impress at marksmen, and their failure to drive home their attacks in a one-sided game was in some measures due to the fact that Wyles was completely blotted out by Bell, who is developed well at pivot. Owen was a sound back and in the Everton defence Jones (T.G.) and Greenhalgh stood out. Of the home forwards only Glidden accomplished anything of note and the was twice unlucky in having great drives rebounded from the woodwork of the Everton goal Jackson and McIntosh (2) scored for Everton in the first half, and Bentham and Wainwright later increased the margin. Tranmere Rovers;- Foster, goal; Anderson and Owen (captain), backs; Hornby, Bell and Kieran, half-backs; Wheeler, Glidden, Alder, Williamson, Jackson (J.P.), forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (J.E.) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (T.G.) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; Jackson, Bentham, Wyles, Wainwright, and McIntosh, (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. W. Evans (Liverpool).
• Liverpool beat Southport 6-2. Hall, Nieuwenhuys, Beattie, Done (3), and Rawling and Simpkins for Southport.
• The Army beat the R.A.F 4-0 in front of a 50,000 crowd. Stevenson played for the R.A.F and Lawton for the Army, at Tynescastle Park in Edinburgh. Lawton scored the fourth.
April 3, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
For a sheer energy Tranmere Rovers were quite a match for Everton at Prenton Park in the Liverpool Cup semi-final, but what they lacked was the finer arts of the game. Speed and endeavour were there, but not the craft. Everton won 5-0, and so practically made certain of meeting either Liverpool or Southport in the semi-final and making the eight big "Derby" of the season, a probability. Everton should be good enough to preserve an advantage in Saturday's return with the Rovers at Goodison Park. The fact that George Jackson got an early goal on Saturday –George has scored in each of his games at outside-right –had much to do with Everton's success. It gave them the whip hand or comfortable feeling, and no matter how hard the Rovers fought they could not undermine the complex. And, believe me, the Rovers did try. McIntosh bagged a couple before half-time, and Bentham and Wainwright supplemented the score in the second period. Tranmere had a lot of this game, but the fact that they were always fighting an uphill battle were against them.
Stevenson's Injury
Alex Stevenson, the Everton Irish International inside-left, was carried off at Tynecastle on Saturday, with a severely injured ankle. This may necessitate an X-ray examination, and it is doubtful whether Stevenson will be able to play again for some weeks.
McINTOSH'S FINE GAME
April 3, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
Tranmere Rovers youthful side put up a very good show all things considered against the more skilful Everton in the Liverpool Senior Cup-tie. They strove hard enough but did not produce the skill to match that of their adversaries. Everton's marksmanship was not impressive, despite their five goals and this was due in able measure to the subjected of Wiles. The Rovers centre half Bell completely held him up. Some weeks ago I told how Bell had improved in the pivotal position. Glidden had hard luck when he twice hit the woodwork but apart from him the Rovers attacks was moderate. McIntosh had a fine match, scoring two goals both Bentham and Wainwright ran him close for forward honours. T.G. Jones was in one of his dominant periods and along with Greenhalgh provided a stonewall defence.
April 4, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Everton are looking ahead, and in case things go wrong with their efforts to lift the Lancashire Senior Cup they have arranged provisional fixtures with Bolton Wanderers on April 22 and April 29. The venues will have to be decided later. Alex Stevenson the Blues' Irish international inside-left is in Alder Hay Hospital, Liverpool for treatment for the ankle injury about which I told you yesterday.
April 4, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
Everton expect word later today of the result of the X-ray examination of the injury sustained by Alex Stevenson at Tynecastle Park. A cracked ankle bone is suspected. If that is confirmed Stevenson will be "out" for the rest of the season. At the moment he is in a Liverpool hospital. It was a cracked ankle bone, which kept Liddell out of the game for nearly three months, while Tatters the diminutive R.A.F discovery of Tommy Jones, who gave such a brilliant display until he was missed against Liverpool last January suffered the same misfortune. Bentham's lay-off was similar too. After a long spell of freedom from injuries both local clubs have had a packet of recent months. Hope Stevenson is the last of them.
April 5, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
The return of Tommy Lawton, the England leader, to centre-forward for Wyles is Everton's only team change for the holiday games with Tranmere Rovers and Liverpool. Alex Stevenson, the Blues international inside-left is suffering from a fractured ankle.
April 6, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
The Rovers come to Goodison Park in the Liverpool Senior Cup semi-final with a deficit of five goals, which seems a pretty hopeless task, especially as the home side will be stronger this week than last with the return of Lawton to the attack. Yet Tranmere are nothing if not fighters and won't relinquish hope without a struggle. They have the memory of the shock administrated at Goodison a couple of years back to spur them on. Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.), Greenhalgh; Grant. Jones (TG), Watson; Jackson, Bentham, Lawton, Wainwright, McIntosh. Tranmere; Foster; Anderson, Kieran, Steele, Bell, Williamson (S), Alder, Heydon, Glidden, Maddocks, Wheeler.
April 6, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Everton hold a five goal lead over Tranmere Rovers in their Liverpool Cup semi-final, and should not have much difficulty in retaining a winning advantage when the teams meet at Goodison Park on Saturday. Lawton will be back leading the line with Eddie Wainwright deputising for Stevenson who, unfortunately, will be out of football for the remainder of the season. The Rovers are persevering with a number of their young players but will have Maddocks back at inside-left. Danny Glidden again taking over the leadership of the line. Everton have already defeated the Rovers five times this season and should complete their second "double" in a game starting at three o'clock. Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.), Greenhalgh; Grant. Jones (TG), Watson; Jackson, Bentham, Lawton, Wainwright, McIntosh. Tranmere; Foster; Anderson, Kieran, Steele, Bell, Williamson (S), Alder, Heydon, Glidden, Maddocks, Wheeler.
April 8, 1944. The Evening Express.
Pilot's Log
Monday will be a red letter day for the Everton football club. They will stage at Gooidison Park, the sixth "Derby" match of the season with Liverpool and there will be other events to make it a holiday to remember. Liverpool have won both the season's Goodison "Derby" games to date, but they will have to rise to the heights to conquer the Blues on Monday. Everton will have out one of the strongest sides they have fielded since the war, including no fewer than seven of the 1939 championship teams. Torry Gillick, the Scottish international is a certainty for outside right. Wally Boyes, England international will be at outside left and there is a great chance that Cliff Britton another English international, will be at right half. Standing by will be friends and favourities like Jock Thomson, the per-war captain, Jimmy Cunliffe and Charlie Gee, who are all coming to participate in a notable pre-match ceremony. One of the reasons for the reunion of the stars is that prior to the match Mr. W.C. Gibbons the Everton, chairman will present to faithful servants their cheques for benefits sanctioned by the Football League. Everton are saying "Thank you" to these fine players in a sum of money exceeding £5,500. There are 17 beneficiaries Thomson, Jack Jones, Tommy Jones, Greenhalgh, Jackson, Burnett, Watson, Gee, Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Stevenson, Mercer, Britton, Cunliffe, Boyes, Cook. Unfortunately there will be some absentees, for Stevenson is in hospital with a broken ankle, Joe Mercer will be playing in a Services match at Ipswich, and Cook is in India. There is just a doubt about Britton and Thomson who are however, making every effort to get along. If Cliff turns up he will play at right-half in a star-studded side. Liverpool have a late news item in the arrival home of Mike Hulligan, who joins the forwards from which the side will be selected, but so far the effort to get Matt Busby have proved unsuccessful. Still it will be a great day. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Grant (or Britton), Jones (Tommy), Watson; Gillick, Bentham, Lawton, Boyes, McIntosh. Liverpool; Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Polk, Hughes, Pillings; (from) Hall, Jones (Bill), Beattie, Done, Welsh, Campbell, Hulligan.
April 8, 1944. The Evening Express
4-0 Victory Over Rovers
By Pilot.
Everton had a five-goal lead on Tranmere Rovers for the second "leg" of their Liverpool Senior-Cup semi-final at Goodison Park today. The winners meet either Liverpool or Southport in the final. The Rovers were forced to make four forward changes, Walters adding to the Devonshire atmosphere at the game by leading the attacking went to inside left. Jack Humphreys the Everton half-back who was injured with Crystal Palace some weeks ago, has made a complete recovery and was a spectator at the game. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (TG) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; Jackson, Bentham, Lawton, Wainwright, and McIntosh, forwards. Tranmere Rovers; Foster, goal; Anderson and Kieran, backs; Steele, Bell and Williamson, half-backs; Jones (W), Payne, Walters, Glidden and Wheeler, forwards. Referee Mr. R.G. Ashworth. A neat header by Wheeler and a good old-fashioned shoulder charge by Glidden on Jack Jones enlivened the quiet opening, during which Foster dived to pick up a low centre from Jackson before saving a certain goal at the expense of Lawton. Lawton dashed through from Bentham's pass, and as he side-stepped Foster, the goalkeeper brought him down and Keiran thankfully cleared for a corner. Glidden came to inside left to let go an excellent shot which Burnett turned aside and followed up to prevent Jones (W.) from scoring. Glidden came again, but this time his shot swerved just outside. Tranmere were by no means out of the picture, and Burnett had to full down a likely centre from Jones (W.).
Lawton Scores
In 15 minutes however, Everton took the lead through Lawton, Jackson had failed in his first effort to beat Kieran, but he fought the ball back and centred perfectly for Lawton to head into the corner unchallenged. Jones (W.) and Glidden nipped through the middle, but Burnett came out and cleared with a kick which would have done credit to a full back. Play was none too exciting. McIntosh went on from Lawton's pass to place into the net, but the point quite rightly disallowed for offside. Glidden let go the best shot of the game so far –a beauty right along the floor, to which Burnett dived to turn around the post. The Rovers continued genuine triers, but they backed the craft necessary to outwit the cool Everton defence, Glidden was their most accomplished forward. He tried repeatedly to get his line working, but with scant success. Wainwright twice went through, only to be headed off at the last moment, and with Everton playing only at half pace the game was lacking in thrills. Tranmere brought some variety when Walters gained possession in a close tackle, and slipped the ball over for Steele to drive in magnificently, but Burnett was dead in position. Bentham frittered away a good chance when he raced between Bell and Kieran and shot too quickly and off the mark. Wainwright centred across the Rovers' goal, but before that Foster had made a grand save off Bentham's header. Glidden put Walters through, and the centre forward hooked the ball over the advancing Burnett, but it dropped a foot wide.
Half-time; Everton 1, Tranmere Rovers 0.
Foster crashed into the limelight with a fine save of Lawton. Then the Rovers provided the major interest, Glidden went clean through, but with only Burnett to beat the shot too hastily and the ball swung outside. The Rovers had another golden chance of squaring matters when Burnett ran out but failed to gain possession. Walters edged the ball across to Wheeler, who placed in so slowly that Jack Jones was able to run across and avert danger. Foster dived to save a low centre from McIntosh, who was finding Anderson the most awkward of opponents and then Bentham placed outside from a precise Lawton pass.
Lead Increased
Everton increased their lead in 75 minutes, when Grant brought the ball clear and pushed it forward for Lawton to open up the way for Jackson. Jackson crossed accurately and Lawton's head was there to give Foster no chance. Jackson should have made it three when he had all the goal to shoot at, but he placed beyond the far post. Everton increased their lead four minutes later from a twice-taken corner. Foster ran out to a centre, but was knocked flat on his back and while he was still on the floor the ball was punted out to Wainwright, who promptly headed into the vacant net. Apparently Everton had come to the conclusion that it was goals the spectators wanted, and they infused some life into the game. Tommy Jones ran forward full 30 yards to let go a magnificent shot, which Foster saved at full length. Then Bentham jumped in to place against the bar. Everton were four up in 85 minutes when Bentham took Lawton's headed pass on the full volley with his right foot to make a fine effort a winner. Final –Everton 4, Tranmere R. 0.
April 8, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (TG) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; Jackson, Bentham, Lawton, Wainwright, and McIntosh, forwards. Tranmere Rovers; Foster, goal; Anderson and Kieran, backs; Steele, Bell and Williamson, half-backs; Jones (W), Payne, Walters, Glidden and Wheeler, forwards. Referee Mr. R.G. Ashworth. There were quite a good attendance for this Liverpool Senior Cup semi-final return game at Goodison Park., in which Everton started with a five goal lead. Glidden twice showed the Everton forwards how to pull a bow at a venture and Burnett had to treat the first case with great care. The second was wide. The Rovers goal had a narrow escape when Lawton was through but Foster rushed out and saved the situation as Lawton fell on his knees. Glidden was the Rovers spear point in attack, yet at 15 minutes Everton took the lead when Jackson after seemingly losing possession slipped across the centre which Lawton headed beyond Foster. While Everton were the attackers in-chief Tranmere could be dangerous, but they relied upon Glidden to do most of their shooting and while his work was good the honours should have been spread around more. He made yet another fast drive, and Burnett had to throw himself across his goal to turn the ball around the post. Just after this Lawton slipped a ball forward for McIntosh, who, however, was an inch or two offside, so his shot did not count although he had netted. It was a quiet type of match for which there was plenty doing in midfield, goal mouth incidents were infrequent. Steele gave Burnett one of his most difficult shots to deal with, and when Lawton put Bentham through there seemed a possibility of a second goal, but it did not materialise. Glidden offered Walters am opportunity, which he took well by trying to loft the ball over the goalkeepers head. He missed by inches, and Lawton did the same at the other end.
Half-time; Everton 1, Tranmere Rovers nil.
Early in the second half Jackson shot across the Rovers goalmouth and Lawton tried one of his famous drive, the turn shots, which foster had to look slippy to save. Glidden then had a chance when he ran through the Everton defence and shot over. Bentham hit the upright, but in the main the shooting was anything but good. Bell had kept careful watch on Lawton, who did not get a lot of good passes, often due to the timely intervention of Bell. In 75 minutes Lawton scored a second goal for Everton and again it came from Jackson. Lawton kicked the ball in with his head in Dean like fashion to beat Foster cleverly. This was Lawton's 59th goal this season. Wainwright scored a third for Everton heading the ball in, and T.G. Jones dead on the mark with a shot and Bentham hit the crossbar. Everton 4, Tranmere Rovers 0.
April 10, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 4, Tranmere Rovers 0
Many chances missed.
By Stork.
It was undoubtedly a game of missed chances at Goodison Park, and Everton who won 4-0, were just as remiss in this respect as Tranmere Rovers. The Rovers might have been two goals before Everton had scored. Glidden was the man who created most of the trouble for the Everton goalkeeper, Burnett. His first effort was a really splendid one, his next not quite so good, but they brought Everton to the realisation that they could not take things for granted. The midfield play of both sides was sound, but it did not bring in its train enough good shots to rouse the spectators enthusiasm. All we had to enthuse about up to the interval was Lawton's goal scored at 15 minutes, two Glidden shots, and a rattling drive by Steele. True, many of the movements in midfield were nice to watch, but there were times when attempts to over-elaborate might have proved more costly to amore penetrative set of forwards. It was fritting to see golden opportunities cast to the winds. I fear too much in placed on the shoulders of Glidden by his colleagues. He can shoot, and shoot well, but there are others in the line who should accept the onus of a shot when the opening arrives. Glidden was undoubtedly the mainspring of the Rovers attack in every respect but he had not the support. The Rovers youngsters showed promise, and with a couple more years over their heads they should be material, but in this game they had not the craft to beat the sound Everton defence.
Bell's Display
I was interested in the duel between Lawton and Bell. The last time I saw them in opposition Bell gave a great display against England's centre forward and he again put up a solid defence against Lawton, despite the latter's two goals. The game had settled down on a quiet note when, suddenly Everton broke loose, and goals by Lawton, Wainwright and Bentham in the last 15 minutes made Everton look better than they were. I hardly think they were four goals superior to the Rovers. It was pleasant football to watch without the electrifying shocks of goalmouth battle. Attendance 10,968. Receipts £719. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (TG) (captain) and Watson, half-backs; Jackson, Bentham, Lawton, Wainwright, and McIntosh, forwards. Tranmere Rovers; Foster, goal; Anderson and Kieran, backs; Steele, Bell and Williamson, half-backs; Jones (W), Payne, Walters, Glidden and Wheeler, forwards. Referee Mr. R.G. Ashworth.
• Liverpool beat Southport 7-4, Done (2), Beattie, Welsh (2) (1 Penalty), Hulligan, Campbell, for Liverpool and Coates, Aspinall (2), Mutch for Southport.
April 10, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Everton have now won four matches off the reel, and their latest win 4-0 over Tranmere Rovers at Goodison Park on Saturday –was secured in effortless manner in one of the most docile matches we have had here this season. The game was redeemed from being rock-bottom poor by such fine efforts as Lawton's two headed goals, two brilliant runs by Tommy Jones, one when he lobbed the ball over the heads of four men in succession, and the other when he streaked through to conclude with a hurricane shot; the doggedness of Harold Bell; the coolness of Wainwright's headed goal; the half-volley winner by Stan Bentham; some good early shooting by "Danny" Glidden; the accuracy of the Jackson centring, and the tireless work of Jack Grant. I liked the distinct promise of young Stuart Williamson, at left half for the Rovers, the careful Anderson watch on McIntosh, the utter nonchalance of the Everton defence, but this was generally pretty dreary fare.
Mr. Trueman of Tranmere Rovers has selected two excellent teams to meet at Prenton Park on the evening of April 19 in connection with Birkenhead's "Salute the Soldier" Week. In the main the teams will be a mixture of Tranmere Rovers, Everton, Chester, and Blackpool teams. Here are the elevens Mr. Trueman hopes will be available; "A"; Burnett (Everton); Jones (Jack) (Everton), Kieran (Rovers); Grant (Everton), Hughes (Birmingham and Chester), Watson (Everton); Matthews (Stoke City and Blackpool), Dix (Tottenham H. And Blackpool), Dodds (Blackpool); Glidden (Reading and Rovers), Butler (West Bromwich A and Southport).
"B" Foster (Rovers); Anderson (Rovers), Greenhalgh (Everton); Jones (Sam) (Blackpool), Bell (Rovers), Williamson (Rovers); Jackson (Everton), Bentham (Everton), Lawton (Everton), Astbury (Chester), McIntosh (Preston and Everton).
April 10, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
For quite a long time Tranmere Rovers youthful side held Everton to a single goal, and it seemed more than likely that the goal would be sufficient to win the game. So often had the simple chances been missed that one began to expect missed and not goals. There were more in this game than in half a dozen others. I wonder why? One could expect the Rovers to feel the weight of their burden –a five goals deficit and consequently be very anxious to do the right thing, but Everton had no such handicap. They were free to indulge themselves; they did, but in the wrong direction for they played with a flippancy which might have proved costly had there been a more dangerous set of forwards opposed to them. (Writes Stork). The midfield play was entertaining, but there were many grounds when simple scoring chances were allowed to pass by. Even Lawton was not so deadly as usual, and of the four goals scored three of them were headers. Glidden was the Rovers most dangerous marksman. He took on the responsibility because there was little punching power in the rest of the line, and let me tell you he cracked in some grand drives and Burnett had to act swiftly to save. It was not until half-way through the second half that Everton were able to beat down the Rovers' defence and score three goals in ten minutes. Up to then the Tranmere Rovers defence, particularly Bell had kept a watchful eye on Lawton and his colleagues. Bell had another fine match against England's leader. He cut out many dangerous-looking balls that would have mean trouble had they been allowed to travel on to Lawton. The inexperience of the Rovers forwards made matters easy for the Everton defenders, but with a year or so more in good-class football should see some of these youngsters making up into really good material. The Rovers policy may show a high dividend in the year to come. They have some promising youngsters on their staff. Everton with the exception of Grant, Burnett and Wainwright are all pre-war campaigners; championship class, and there lay the difference.
April 10, 1944. The Evening Express
Great Goal by Tommy Jones
By Pilot.
The big Merseyside "Derby" match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park today, in the Lancashire Cup and Football League, was preceded by a gathering of pre-war Everton stalwarts, who, in the dressing room, were presented with benefit cheques for more than £5,500 by the club chairman Mr. W. C. Gibbins. Cheques were given to 14 of the 17 players honoured, Thomson, Cook and Mercer being unable to be present. Charlie Gee made a grand response on behalf of the players, some of whom were re-uniting for the first time since the war. Gillick and Britton appeared in the team for the first time for more than two years. Gillick appearing at inside right with Britton at right-half. Liverpool had Bill Jones at right back. There must have been 35,000 at the start. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Britton, Jones (T.G) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Gillick, Lawton, Boyes, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Jones (Billy) and Gulliver, backs; Polk, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Beattie, Done, Welsh (Charlton Athletic) (captain) and Hulligan, forwards. Referee; Mr. G. Gibson (Urmston). Welsh was Liverpool's captain for the day, but he saw Everton do the early work. Boyes almost ran through but was headed off by Jones, and Gillick and Grant twice combined neatly. Liverpool set out to make the pace hot, and when Beattie neatly gave the "dummy" he had Everton running the wrong way, and Done's shot along the floor was only saved by Burnett going full length.
Opening Goal.
It was fast, exciting fare, and in five minutes Everton took the lead with a wonder goal by Tommy Jones. Polk came across to try and intercept Gillick but handled the ball a yard outside the penalty area. Jones took the free kick and sent a beautiful right foot shot into the near centre, Hobson never having the slightest chance. Done could not get hold of a quick centre by Hulligan, before Hughes doubled back enterprisingly to hold up Lawton, as the leader was stepping in to shoot. A mis-pass by Gillick allowed Hulligan to get away, but a dangerous centre was strongly headed away by Tommy Jones with Done close at hand. In 15 minutes Everton increased their lead through McIntosh, the entire speed of the movement leaving Liverpool almost standing still. From a goal kick Burnett placed the ball forward along the floor to Watson, who quickly responded to the shout "though Gordon," and McIntosh sped on to cut in and score with a left foot cross-shot as Lawton was closing in.
Well on Top
Jones (Bill) twice held up Boyes, who was cleverly interchanging position with McIntosh, and Hughes stuck to Lawton like a leech as the centre forward tried to get through. Everton were well on top, and Hobson did well to get the ball away from under the bar with Lawton trying to head through. Boyes raced clear after fine work by Gillick and Lawton, but Hobson went full length to save and followed it up to prevent Grant from running the ball through. Liverpool had a free kick five yards outside the penalty area, but Gillick anticipated Done's move and averted danger. Straightaway Everton went through again for Hobson to fist away from McIntosh, and then McIntosh shot against the side netting with Lawton standing unmarked in front of goal. Tommy Jones held up Done magnificently, and Britton and McIntosh combined perfectly. Everton were complete masters in a game producing high grade football, in fact on chances Everton should have been more than two up. Everton increased their lead in 28 minutes when Gillick slipped the ball through for Lawton to swing round and shoot with his left foot. Hobson dived to make a super save, but grant came in at full beit to whip the ball into the roof of the net before Hobson could recover. Hobson then saved a magnificent header from Lawton as Everton continued to outplay Liverpool.
April 10, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
In Lancs Cup-Tie With Liverpool
By Ranger.
Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Britton, Jones (T.G) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Gillick, Lawton, Boyes, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Jones (Billy) and Gulliver, backs; Polk, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Beattie, Done, Welsh (Charlton Athletic) (captain) and Hulligan, forwards. Referee; Mr. G. Gibson (Urmston). There was a pleasing ceremony before the start of the Lancashire cup-tie at Goodison Park, today, when Mr. W.C. Gibbons presented cheques to fourteen Everton players who have qualified for benefits. Fourteen of the seventeen Everton players have qualified for benefits. The only absentees were Cook, who is abroad, Mercer and Thomson. Stevenson now out of hospital was present. In all Everton are distributing close on £5,000 in this way. Charlie Gee responded on behalf of the players with a neat speech in which he paid tribute to the Everton's club's generosity. Britton and Gillick got a great welcome from the crowd of 30,000, which soon had plenty over which to enthuse, for T.G. Jones opened the score for Everton after seven minutes with a grand goal from a free kick, twenty-five yard out, after Polk, had handled as Gillick was going through. Prior to this Boyes had only half hit his shot when well placed, while at the other end Burnett had to be smart to save an effort by Done. Everton's combination was brilliant at times, and more than once they had the Liverpool defence anxious.
In His Stride.
As it was, a second goal came in rather fortuitous manner. It arose when Watson booted the ball well up field from near the half-way line, and McIntosh taking it in his stride, with the Liverpool defence spread-eagled, rammed home a terrific drive to put Everton two up. Beattie put up some telling passes for Hulligan and Done, but Jones (T.G.) was there to bar the way before a shot arose. Gulliver came to Liverpool's rescue when a centre by Boyd threatened danger. A grand piece of Everton combination was within an ace of bringing goal No. 3, but Boyes just failed to reach by inches a return from Hobson, who had fallen full length in saving. A Liverpool attack, in which Welsh and Pilling got in one another's way, ended in a free kick for the visitors, which produced nothing of note, and then McIntosh dashed up at the other end to slam another hefty drive into the side netting. Tommy Jones neatly dispossessed Done in his usual nonchalant fashion and took the ball into the Liverpool half without making the most use of it. It was grand holiday fare and the large crowd had seen plenty of good football, though Liverpool were not so precise and polished as the home side.
Everton's Third
Everton went further ahead through Grant at the 29th minutes. The ball was pushed upwards by Gillick to Lawton, who wheeled round Hughes and smashed in a strong shot, which Hobson saved at full length. Before the Liverpool goalkeeper could recover, however, Grant dashed up and tapped the ball into the net as he was bowled over the line by Gulliver.
Liverpool Evening Express - Tuesday 11 April 1944
EVERTON Football Club yesterday paid out more than £5,500 to 17 players as accrued shares of benefit up to the war. Pre-war and present-day players participated in what was a record shareout for any club in a single day. The club chairman, Mr. W. C. Gibbins, is seen handing a cheque to W Boyes, the international winger. Left to right: Mr. R. Turnbull, Mr. W. R. Williams (directors), C. S. Britton, Mr. W. C. Gibbins, C. W. Gee, T. G. Jones (present club captain), G. Jackson, W Boyes, T. Lawton, T. Gillick, S. Bentham, J. N. Cunliffe, A, Stevenson, with J. E. Jones immediately behind, N. Greenhalgh, J. Grant, Dr. C. S. Baxter, Councillor R. E. Searle, Mr. G. Evans (directors), behind whom are J Humphreys and Mr. Theo Kelly (club secretary).
April 11, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Everton 3, Liverpool 0
Everton's Skilful Play
While the football in the first portion had plenty of exciting incidents and was maintained at a fast pace, that in the second portion was so dull that one might have thought nothing depended on the result. Both sides were listless and unenterprising and it was only in the closing stages when Liverpool made a rather half-hearted rally and Lawton made two good attempts to register his 60th goal of the season that the spectators found anything to relieve the tedium. The conditions may have had something to do with it, for they were such as in take a lot out of the players.
Liverpool Below Form.
Everton were worth their victory. They were much the better side in the first 45 minutes, and promised to improve further on their 3 goals lead after the resumption, instead they seemed content to rest on their laurels with the consequence that Liverpool came more into the picture. Fortunately for Everton, however, the visitors were much below par, particularly in attack, where the line was never more than a collection of units with little or no semblance of combination. With weakness on both wings, and Welsh having a bad day, it was left to Beattie and Done to do the major part of the work. The latter player tried with his usual wholeheartedness, but could make no impression on Jones (T.G.) who blocked the middle so effectively and effortlessly that Done more than once indicated his perplexity. That left only Beattie to plough a lone furrow in an effort to induce some cohesion into his line. His passes were always canny but nobody on the Liverpool side made proper use of them.
Free Kick Goal
Everton's attack by comparison looked possibly a trifle better than it actually was. They progressed by polished and precise combination snapped up their chances quickly, and kept the ball on the ground as opposed to Liverpool's "air" ball methods. Jones (T.G.) opened the score after seven minutes with a terrific free kick from twenty-five yards, which was in the net before Hobson saw it. McIntosh got the second after 15 minutes when Watson lobbed a long pass upwards and the wings darted through the spread-eagled defence to deliver a shot which rivalled Jones's while Grant's persistence in following-up enabled him to get the third when Hobson was lying on the ground after saving a Lawton shot. This at the 29th minute, but only ended the day's scoring, but also any shooting of note excepting Lawton's two late efforts and a brilliant back-heeler by Beattie in the closing stages which almost took Burnett by surprise. Nobody shone more in Everton's sound defence than Jones (T.G.), who was brilliant in all he did. Hughes was also a tower of strength to Liverpool and his duels with Lawton left the honours fairly evenly divided. Everton were the better served at wing half, where Britton not only played a great game, but was going as strong at the end as at the beginning. McIntosh and Lawton were Everton's best forwards, but Gillick was disappointing after the first half-hour. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Britton, Jones (T.G) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Grant, Gillick, Lawton, Boyes, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Jones (Billy) and Gulliver, backs; Polk, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Beattie, Done, Welsh (Charlton Athletic) (captain) and Hulligan, forwards. Referee; Mr. G. Gibson (Urmston).
April 11, 1944. The Evening Express.
Pilot's Log.
Everton, after a great display of football of pre-war vintage at Goodison Park, yesterday, when beating Liverpool 3-0 in the Lancashire Cup second round tie first "leg" find themselves in a wonderful position to register a "double." If they can resist Liverpool's challenge in Saturday's return game at Anfield then they will become favourites for the county trophy while their chance of gaining League Championship No 2 is obvious. Let us leave yesterday's soccer pageant for a moment to review the League position. Bath City, the leaders, were defeated yesterday while Wrexham drew at Chester, and to join the City on top with 26 points apiece Bradford were not playing and Sheffield United lost heavily while Cardiff City were drawing. Consequently, Everton shoot into third place on goal average and only two points behind the leaders. I do think that with Wrexham showing the way, Everton on their heels, and Liverpool only two points further away that Merseyside, at least has a chance of gaining the title. And do not forget that the winners are entitled to play 14 players £5 each for gaining the championship. That is something worth winning. Of course Liverpool may easily put a spoke in Everton's wheel on Saturday when they contest the second "leg" of the Lancashire cup game at Anfield. It is a game to which I look forward with rare relish and I am also hopeful that at least one more "Derby" will be staged to give the season a fitting finale. Arrangements have yet to be made for the completion of the Liverpool Senior Cup, in which Everton are waiting to play either Liverpool or Southport. The date position is vague at the moment, but should Everton fail to keep that three goal lead on Saturday and Liverpool progress in the Lancashire Cup, it looks as if an approach will have to be made to Southport to withdraw from the Liverpool Cup-on compensation –to enable the final to be played. Should Everton go on to the Lancashire Cup semi-final, however, Liverpool and Southport will have a chance to settle their issue, but even then it looks as if the Liverpool cup final will have to be staged in midweek.
Not for a long time have I so thoroughly enjoyed a football occasion as I did that at Goodison Park yesterday. There was the fine reunion with so many old friends of the pre-war soccer days, and sufficient football of super-brilliance to give everyone of the 33,868 spectator's complete satisfaction. Let me deal with the game first, and then revert to the pleasing dressing-room ceremony which proceeded the clash of the old rivals. Everton, with six internationals and a like number of 1939 championship stars, gave Liverpool a lesson in high-grade football craft, skill and effectiveness for an hour. It was a treat to watch. It seemed as if every man in the star studded Everton side agreed that this was an occasion to show just how the game should be played. I can assure them that they succeeded. Each player and each department dovetailed flawlessly, and when I say that Liverpool were extremely fortunate to escape with only three goals against them in the first half that is only putting it mildly. Everton should not only have been half-a-dozen in front by half-time, but deserved to be. Apart from one bright minute early on, Liverpool were hardly "coloured" in a football sense in that opening half, and then for 15 minutes immediately after the interval Everton played as if the ball was connected to each man by wires. The willing Reds could do nothing with them except chase and often watch. This was collaborative football at its finest. The Liverpool players –fighters, every man – had played themselves out at the hour half-chasing, and the Everton lads had played themselves out in their arts and crafts so that suddenly the game collapsed, and for the remaining thirty minutes it was almost desultory. Still one could forget that portion in view of the previous "golden hour of soccer glory." All the scoring was crammed into 23 minutes. The first was a wonder shot from a free kick by Tommy Jones, which few saw until the ball hit the net; the next was a grand cross-shot by McIntosh, and then Grant nipped in to take a third after Hobson had made one of his many magnificent saves off Lawton.
That Everton did not add to their total was due primarily to the grand goalkeeping of Hobson. How Alf reached some headers by Lawton, was amazing. Another reason for Everton being kept off the "goal-standard" later on was Laurie Hughes who, in my opinion was one of the three super-players in this game. The others were Tommy Jones and Cliff Britton. Great praise to a youngster like Hughes to be classed with two masters like Jones and Britton, and I mean it to be so. Hughes and Jones were of course, of two entirely different moulds. Hughes was there to hold up Lawton, Gillick, and Boyes by his quick movement to position, perfect heading –not so often have I seen Lawton out-headed as yesterday –and strength of clearance. Hughes was the effective stopper. Tommy Jones quite as good in a defensive sense without expending the same amount of energy but rather acting to the ball as a magnet does to a pint. Jones covered the ground, but in rather effortless style, and he was better than Hughes when it came to use of the ball. Still, I must emphasise that Hughes was opposing a far better attack, or was it that Jones reduced Liverpool's attack to impotence? Anyway two fine centre half backs alone well worth the visit to the ground. Britton came back to show us just why he has played so long as England's right half. Cliff was never seen in better light. When I congratulation Cliff afterwards I really did mean it. I wish we could see more of this perfect footballer. Greenhalgh was far and away the best back on the field and had a splendid day all through. Jackson's tackling was sound, but he missed the ball too frequently. Watson delighted me, and so did the cunning, unselfish leadership of Lawton in that hour. McIntosh and Boyes were a menacing combination all through, interchanging positions in refreshing style, and giving poor Bill Jones a really unhappy time. Personally I was disappointed in Bill Jones, and prefer him as a forward. On the right Grant was as terrier-like as when at half-back, and only he or a Bentham would have dashed in for that third goal. Gillick's timing of a pass and his easy shifting into correct position was there still, and through the whole team –Burnett made some rare saves –there was a confidence which one never saw in the Liverpool ranks.
Beattie Excels
Maybe the Liverpoolians will think me concentrating too much on the Blues, but my reply is that this Everton merits the position. Liverpool's was not a happy display, for Welsh was blotted right out by Britton, and Done, try as he would, could not slip Tom Jones any more than Lawton, late on, could slip Hughes. Hulligan showed up as a danger now and again, and one of his corners actually hit the face of the bar, but Campbell rarely beat Greenhalgh, and it was left to the industrious and excellent Beattie to be the one Liverpool forward to earn a place among the top honours. Beattie was great. Polk did some good work, but Pilling was ball-seeking rather too much, and Gulliver took time to settle down. Liverpool rather lacked a general, but even a general could not have brought about any different result. Everton were too good on the day. I wish we could see football like it every week, and hope for a repeat of standard at Anfield on Saturday. Three goals is not a winning lead, remember in a local Derby, Liverpool hope to have Matt Busby and Nieuwenhuys to balance the loss of Welsh. In the dressing room before the game, where we had the chance to renew acquaintance with our companions of pre-war travel days in Torry Gillick, Cliff Britton, Wally Boyes, Charlie Gee, and Jimmy Cunliffe –not forgetting those who still visit us often –Mr. Will Gibbons, chairman of the Blues. Presented benefits cheques to 13 of the 17 players honoured for loyal service. Everyone was delighted that Alex Stevenson could hobble along with the aid of a stick to take his cheque. Stevenson is nursing a broken leg received at Tynecastle. Mr. Gibbins thanked the players for their loyalty and brilliant efforts on behalf of the Everton club, and emphasised that while receiving those shares of benefit they were at once, starting on qualification for more benefits. You boys cam make sure of further reward." He said, "by always giving of your best in the field." That means public support, and that support lays the foundation for your benefits. " Charlie Gee, who is shortly taking up an important school-teaching appointment, returned thanks on behalf of all the recipients, and in a matter which stamped Charlie as good an orator as he was player. "When we all left Goodison Park on that memorable Monday after the outbreak of War," said Charlie, "I knew than that, although I had received one benefit and had put in four years for a second, everything would be all right. One had to think of the past as dead, but always at the back of my mind I knew we would never be forgotten and today proves that Everton had not forgotten her players. "This is a wonderful gesture by Everton appreciated by us all but typical of the club. "Here you witness that service is being repaid in full. I would like to say this to the young players. Everything you give to Everton will be repaid generously. Bear that in mind." The speech was characteristic of Charlie Gee just as it was characteristic that Torry Gillick should have left his boots behind in Glasgow so that they had to be sent on after him; that when Torry, Wally Boyes, and Alex Stevenson got together the pranks should start. It was just like old times, and three stars of the season –Jim McIntosh, Jack Grant, and Eddie Wainwright –were not forgotten. Each received a presentation pen.
April 11 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Players' "Unsolicited Testimonials"
Ranger's Notes
Everton's recent run of five successive victories has brought them back right bang into the championship reckoning only two points behind the joint leaders. It would be fitting if the Goodison players could celebrate yesterday's benefit presentations with a champion victory. This benefit ceremony was another clear indication of the esteem and respect which exists between Everton and the players. Sometimes the bond between players and club kept intact only by mutual interest is anything but cordial. I have known players with nothing good to say of their employers, and who have not hesitant to express their opinion. Not so with Everton –or Liverpool. Our local sides treat their staffs well and appreciate loyal service and Charlie Gee returning thanks after yesterday's presentation, put the players feeling in a nutshell. Speaking for all the beneficiaries 'Charlie expressed their deep appreciation of the board's generous gesture "When I left Goodison in the first week of the war he said "having put in nine years and had one benefit wrote off the remaining four years as "dead" –just a bit of bad luck for me. Probably most players felt the same. Now we get this splendid acknowledgment and entirely unsolicited testimonial to the great traditions of Everton. "You can always rest assured that if anybody pays it will be Everton, and today you not only witness service paid in full; but more than full. "Everything you give to the Everton club is repaid generously. I can't do anything to show my thanks for my playing days are over but you younger players who are coming on can indicate the appreciation which we who have finished cannot, and I hope you will show it in no uncertain manner." Mr. W.C. Gibbins the Everton chairman in presenting cheques to fourteen of the seventeen beneficiates, paid a fine tribute to the players loyalty and skill, and said that the club's properly was bound up in that of its staff. He had a cheery word of greeting as each player came up, and altogether it was a grand reunion for some of the recipients rarely get Goodison these days.
Fitting Result.
After such a ceremony it was fitting that Everton should beat Liverpool, it would have been an anti-climax. Their 3-0 victory gives them a good start in Saturday's return at Anfield, but their won't have to take things so easily as they did in the second half if they are to maintain the margin in the first portion Everton were much the better side but once having got well ahead they fell into a "take-it-or-leave-it attitude and it was fortunate for them that Liverpool were not at their best, otherwise there might have been fireworks. After the sparkling first half the second portion was decidedly flat. The conditions were partly responsible for it was not the day to encourage sustained effort, but that was not entirely the reason for the prevalent lassitude. Liverpool for once failed to produce their second half fighting spirit and the game petered out to a very team finish relieved only by Beattie's neat back heel which nearly took Burnett by surprise and Lawton's two attempts to get his 60th goal of the season. Bat these there wasn't a shot from neither side worthy of the name in this portion. But the first half was some consolation, and the spectators will long remember Tommy Jones's opening goal a free kick which was in the net like a rocket before Hobson knew it was on the way and McIntosh's goal of almost equal brilliance. The third one was another instance of the value of the following-through, for if Grant hadn't chased right up to the goalline he wouldn't have been on the shot to tap the ball in when Hobson saved Lawton's shot at full length. It is a long time since Liverpool's attack was so disappointing. The wings were weak, Welsh was much below par, and Done couldn't find a way through T.G. Jones impregnable barrier, which left Beattie ploughing a lone furrow in his efforts to mould the line into a real striking force. His passes were always canny, but they went begging too often, thanks to the quick interception of the opposition, which was rarely at full stretch. Liverpool waited for the ball to come to them, Everton went out to meet it. Nether goalkeeper had a great deal to do, but when they got a scoring chance Everton were the quicker to snap it up. There has been talk of Cliff Britton being dropped by England I was told so by one selector some time ago, who pointed out that Britton was getting to the stage where 90 minutes was too much and the time had come when England must look for a younger man. Had the selectors been at Goodison yesterday they would have seen no sign of the "old man" about Britton. He was going as strong at the end as at the beginning, when many younger men had bellows to mend, and played a brilliant and brainy game throughout.
None to Touch Him
So did Tommy Jones, but I've said that about him so often that the rebellion is almost rabnotonous. The more I see of "T.G" the more I'm convinced there's no centre half today to touch him. That does not detract from the excellence of Hughes in the visiting defence. He played a grand game for the losers and shared the honours equally with Lawton in their many duels. Everton's defence, however, was stronger all round under pressure –not that there was much –than Liverpool's. Gillick was a disappointment; maybe the crack he got early on had something to do with it. Liverpool have got a tough job on to pull back their deficit in the return on Saturday. Manager George Kay, however, is hoping to turn out a stronger side. He is trying to get Matt Busby up, which would make a world of difference and Nieuwenhuys. Welsh will be an absentee as he plays for Charlton in the London cup final against Chelsea at Wembley.
April 12, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Everton's team to oppose Liverpool in the second "leg" of their Lancashire Cup second round tie at Anfield, on Saturday, will be chosen from fourteen players including Joe Mercer and Wally Boyes. Mercer, I can tell you, is practically certain. Liverpool have no further team news as they are waiting news of the availability of some Services players. Everton; (from); Burnett; Jackson, Jones (Jack), Greenhalgh; Grant, Mercer, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Bentham, Lawton, Wyles, Boyes, Wainwright, McIntosh.
April 13, 1944. The Liverpool Evening Express
Thomas Cain, the old Argyle custodian, has signed on for Everton, at a big figure. Sheffield United were too late to secure him.
April 13, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Everton or Liverpool will meet Blackburn Rovers in the semi-final of the Lancashire Senior Cup, and the winners of the Bolton Wanderers-Bury match have been drawn to meet either Stockport County or Rochdale. Liverpool and Everton stage their decider at Anfield on Saturday, when Everton start with a three goal lead. The Blues made tentative arrangements to play Bolton Wanderers home and away on April 22 and 29 but that is still in the air, as both are still concerned in the Lancashire cup. The only thing about which we can be certain at the moment is that we are going to get some excellent games with which to conclude the season including the representative matches at Prenton Park (next Wednesday) and at April on April 26.
Everton Reserves (v. At Randle); Birkett; Woodcock, Prescott; Ashley, Eves, K. Evans; F. Jones, Parr, M. Roberts, Wootton, Makin.
Everton Colts (v. Howsons, at Orrell-lane 3.15 p.m.); Melrose; Nelson, Lever; Barrett, Rees, Lamb, Perrin, Taylor, Chaderton, Lane, Daulby.
April 14, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Everton's Cup-And-League chance.
Ranger's Notes
Tomorrow's Liverpool and Everton game, at Anfield, although their seventh meeting this season, is in some ways the most important of the lot. While none of the previous games had the "knockout" angle attached to it, victory tomorrow means not only that, the winners go on to the semi-final of the Lancashire Cup against Blackburn Rovers, but in Everton's case particularly, will have a very vital bearing on their efforts to overhaul the leaders in the championship race. Though Liverpool are only two points behind Everton, I'm afraid the leeway is too much for them to make up in the few remaining games. If the season had a little longer to go they would be in the running.
Honours in previous Liverpool tussles have been chiefly with Liverpool who have won four of the six matches, scoring 20 goals to Everton's 17. Tomorrow the Blues have the encouraging knowledge of a three goals start thanks to Easter Monday's victory, but with a team of Everton's temperament that may not be an unmixed blessing. Often enough we've seen them taking things easily because they've built up a good lead –they did it again on Monday. While these exhibitions touches in the finer arts of the game are very nice to watch, they cut no ice if the opposition gets the goals. Liverpool usually are a dangerous side with whom to take liberties. Their fighting spirit was missing, on Monday, but with the roar of the Kop to spur them on it might come back in redoubled measure to morrow, so it behoves Everton to take no chances if they want to get through the Cup-tie and enhance their League's prospects. I don't imagine they've forgotten the Lord Mayor's Fund match last August. Two up, with only eight minutes to go, it all seemed over bar shouting. Then Liverpool, who'd been outplayed all the second half, rammed home five goals to snatch a brilliant victory. There's always that prospect to bear in mind with the Reds. They rarely acknowledge defeat until the final whistle and though Everton look fairly certain to get through on the aggregate the chance of another shock can't be ruled out altogether. There is good news for Everton supporters in the fact that Lawton and Mercer are now definite. Liverpool will have the help of Niuwenhuys and Harry Eastham and Westby's return will stiffen this rearguard compared with Monday. As long as the best side wins and the game is as clean and sporting as other war-time Derbies there be no complaint from me. Just the usual reminder to intending spectators. Get there as early as possible and please tender the exact admission money. Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.E.), Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (T.G.), Watson; Grant, Bentham, Lawton, Boyes or Wainwright, McIntosh. Liverpool; Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Polk, Hughes, Pillings; Eastham (H.), Nieuwenhuys, Done, Beattie, Campbell.
April 14, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Tommy Lawton, England's centre forward, will make a bid to register his 60th goal of the season tomorrow, when he leads Everton's attack in the seventh Merseyside "Derby" of the season against Liverpool. Anfield stages the tie which will attract another gate in the 30,000 region, with receipts bordering on the £3,000 mark. Should Lawton, succeed, as I think he will, the 60th goals will not count as comparison to Dixie Dean's 60 in 1927-28, for Dean's 60 were entirely Football league goals while Lawton's include all matches this season. However, the feat is remarkable, and will establish a new record for wartime football. It was only the brilliance of Hobson which kept Lawton off the "goal-standard" last Monday, when the Blues secured a three-goal lead over their rivals in the first "leg" of this tie.
Depends on attack
Liverpool's chance of pulling back that three-goal start against Everton and going on to the Cup semi-finals to tackle Blackburn Rovers depends mainly on their attack. In the first game the Reds had an obvious forward weakness because there was no one to respond to the Beattie promptings. There must be improvement in the department or the Reds will have to scout around for fixtures tomorrow night. This is a game which, true to tradition, may find Liverpool winning when least expected, for on paper Everton seem to have pull. However, while winning the match, Liverpool may easily lose the tie, for three goals is a tremendous amount to concede to a side playing as well as Everton are at the moment. The Blues will be seeking their sixth successive victory and will be strengthened by the return of Joe Mercer, whom Liverpool tried hard to secure to help them in their War Cup game against Manchester City. Joe will be here for the Christening of his son and heir, Michael David, Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly is also hopeful that Wally Boyes will be able to continue at inside left, but, if not Wainwright comes back. Stan Bentham, who stood down on Monday to give Torry Gillick a game, comes in with his enthusiasm and fire at inside right, and Jack Jones is being given a run at right back. Liverpool are not so fortunate for there is still doubt about Berry Nieuwenhuys, but Harry Eastham, of the twinkling feet, many be able to play, and for wingers Manager Mr. George Kay has Campbell, Hall and Hulligan, with Done and Bobbie Beattie inside certainties. Bill Jones may be able to play at right half, but if not Polk continues in the position, and Jack Westby returns to right back to resume his keen duels with Jimmy McIntosh. Whatever the result we are assured of a thrill-a-second-game before the fine crowd, and if the proceedings are contested with the same spirit of sportsmanship, which has characterised all the "Derby" games this season then we shall all be satisfied. Although Everton won the last Anfield match 4-1 Liverpool still hold the balance on the season, having scored four wins to Everton's two. The kick-off is at three o'clock. Everton; Burnett; Jones (J.E.), Greenhalgh; Mercer, Jones (T.G.), Watson; Grant, Bentham, Lawton, Boyes or Wainwright, McIntosh. Liverpool; Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Polk, Hughes, Pillings; Eastham (H.), Nieuwenhuys, Done, Beattie, Campbell.
April 15, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Everton had a three goal lead for the second "leg" of the Lancashire Senior Cup tie against Liverpool at Anfield today "in "what was the seventh Merseyside "Derby" of the season. Eastham and Bill Jones were not available, so Liverpool had Campbell and Hulligan on the wings, and Niewenhuys made a welcome appearance at inside right. Mercer and Boyes could not take part, so Everton had Grant at right half, and Wainwright at inside right. Jack Balmer, who has been indisposed was at the game and said to me that it was doubtful whether he would be able to play again this season. There must have been fully 30,000 spectators present at the start including the Liverpool international favourites, Tom Bradshaw and Arthur Riley, as well as Lieut Tom Bush. The best news of the day was that Alex Stevenson's ankle was not broken but severely wrenched. He will not be able to leave hospital yet, however. Liverpool:- Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Polk, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Nieuwenhuys, Done, Beattie, and Hulligan, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy)(captain), and Watson, half-backs; Jackson, Bentham, Lawton, Wainwright and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. J. I. White (Bolton). There was a laugh at the start of the game, when fully two dozen lemons were thrown to the players as they came on the field, and they were collected and placed in the goals. Liverpool started in a manner which suggested that a three goals deficit meant nothing to them, and by quick thrusts pushed Everton back on the defensive, Burnett having to come out to pull down a ticklish centre from Campbell. Beattie beat three men delightfully, but Greenhalgh held up Campbell, and when Wainwright was going through Hughes came across with the winning tackle. McIntosh raced clear, but the pace of the ball beat him, and after good direct work by Jackson and McIntosh, Lawton took a shot first time, but it passed by the near post.
Opening Goal
Nieuwenhuys twice came back to clear when danger threatened, and one of his quick clearance kicks led to Liverpool taking the lead in nine minutes through Hulligan. The ball was pushed down the middle, when Done survived Tommy Jones's tackle, and got the ball away to Hulligan, who ran through unchallenged to score easily. Liverpool continued a shade quicker on the ball, and when Tommy Jones' header went astray, Jack Jones had to make a hurried clearance for a corner with Liverpool rampant. Hulligan hooked a shot which Burnett pulled down, and the through pass was repeatedly catching Everton on one leg." In three moves Liverpool turned defence into attack, Tom Jones having to kick aside Done's excellent shot. From the corner, Nieuwenhuys jumped over three men to head in magnificently, but Burnett leapt to one side to make a grand save. Everton were continually being chopped for speed, and after Hulligan had headed outside from Done's centre, Done and Beattie put Hulligan clean through.
Super Save
Hulligan's first-time shot passed beyond the far post to Campbell, who returned it first time for Burnett to make a super save with the odds all against him. For fully a quarter of an hour Everton had not been "coloured" and now when the Blues imagined danger was averted Done surprised them by placing the ball clean across the Everton goal with Burnett on the floor. Liverpool got no more than they deserved when they increased their lead in 24 minutes through Done. Niuewenhuys had got the better of McIntosh, and he enabled Campbell to centre first time. Tom Jones had the ball covered but he headed the ball down to the feet of Done who ran on to give Burnett no chance. So there was only one goal in it on aggregate, and Liverpool so much the superior team that it seemed to be nothing. Greenhalgh got in the way of a winner from Beattie, before Burnett made a sensational save off the same player. A long free kick by Greenhalgh almost caught Liverpool napping, for the ball seemed to run up Hobson, who just managed to turn it aside for a corner as it was going into the net. The Liverpool defence was as steady as a rock, whereas the Blues were repeatedly miskicking in their anxiety. All Everton's attempts at combined attack were nipped in the bud, and with Liverpool playing with real enthusiasm and skill, they continued to dominate the proceedings. Hulligan dropped a corner on the bar, before Hobson easily disposed of a centre from Jackson. Jackson placed low across the Liverpool goal but the in running McIntosh could only drive against the side netting. Grant was the one player on the Everton side revealing the dash and speed essential to countering this direct Liverpool.
Half-time; Liverpool 2, Everton 0.
Everton, infused more life into their work on resuming, but there was still slowness at inside forward. The Liverpool defence was never seriously bothered. Lawton had one shot which failed to trouble Hobson, and had it not been for grand work by Jack Jones and Greenhalgh, Liverpool must have increased their lead. Burnett made two flying catches before Lawton at last got clever, only to find Gulliver dashing across to make the winning tackle. Just before Beattie had gone through, but Burnett ran out to take the ball from his toes. A corner brought anxiety to Liverpool for a change, Tommy Jones's header leading to Lawton trying a remarkable back header which Hobson fielded confidently. At lasts a real chance for Everton when Lawton put Jackson on good ground, but the winger's shot crashed against the side netting. Despite the fact that so far as effectiveness was concerned this had been Liverpool's game the 25,000 spectators had thrills and variety in plenty.
Hobson's Save
It was only to be expected that Liverpool should tire, and this enabled Lawton to surprised Hughes and from the goal line lob the ball over to McIntosh. McIntosh hit it on the full volley, and it was speeding like a rocket to the net, when Hobson dived to his right, and actually caught the ball in fight. This was one of the features of the game. Everton came again, Lawton shooting under difficulties with his left foot only inches wide. Four minutes from the end Liverpool scored again, through Hulligan, and equalised on the aggregate. After 90 minutes Liverpool 3, Everton 0. Extra Time bring played.
April 15, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Hulligan's Two Goals.
Extra Time
By Ranger
Liverpool:- Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Polk, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Nieuwenhuys, Done, Beattie, and Hulligan, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy)(captain), and Watson, half-backs; Jackson, Bentham, Lawton, Wainwright and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. J. I. White (Bolton). Everton have had good news regarding Stevenson, whose ankle injury turns out only to be a bad wrench, and there is hope he may play again before the season's end. While the teams were kicking in the spectators at either end threw about a couple of dozen lemons towards the goal. Although Everton started this return Lancashire Senior Cup-tie with a three goals lead, Liverpool had reduced it in nine minutes when Hulligan, taking a pass from done who had slipped through from near the centre line following a clearance by Pilling ran on to place the ball wide of Burnett. Prior to this Hughes was injured in the face after he and Lawton had gone up to head the ball. Lawton's final shot was a couple of yards wide. Liverpool played strongly on the visiting defence, without again testing Burnett.
Too Close
Liverpool were having much the better of the argument at this stage, and the visiting attack was very wasteful with its passes and indulged too much in the close game. A forward pass by Beattie brought a fine turn of speed from Done, and a brilliant shot on the turn which led to a fruitless corner. This was followed by a smart header by Niewenhuys and then came golden opportunities to Beattie and Hulligan, both of whom were off the mark through over-eagerness. Liverpool's forwards were combining well and shooting frequently even if not always with accurate. A pass back by Jones (T.G.) nearly brought a goal when Burnett was unable to reach the ball.
Done Snaps In
That was a let off for Everton, but a moment later, when Tommy Jones normally so solid and reliable, made another error. Everton paid the penalty. Tommy misheaded the ball, and before he could recover Done, standing alongside him snapped it up and had the ball in the net in a flash. This was at the twenty-fourth minute. Liverpool's half-back line was breaking up, by keen tackling, every embryo attack by the opposition, and was plying the home forwards, with some grand passes. Everton's nearest approach to a goal so far camp when Hobson fumbled a Lawton header of no great power, and was fortunate at the second attempt to save at the expense of a corner. Everton's only decent piece of combination came just before the interval but brought nothing tangible, McIntosh hitting the side netting with his shot.
Half-time; Liverpool 2, Everton 0.
Everton improved on resuming; but there was still a noticeable absence of teamwork in attack and too many passes were still going to the opposition. The best effort was a McIntosh-Lawton, due which threatened danger until Gulliver nipped in with a hefty clearance. Grant who had been a hard worker, raised a laugh by the manner he stuck dogged to Done, who was always a thorn in Everton's side, and chased up every loose ball. A Lawton back-header did not take Hobson by surprise, but a moment later McIntosh met a Lawton pass, first-time and drove in a terrific shot, which Hobson did well to save. This was the best shot of the match, which so far had produced little shooting of note. Grant was again in the picture with some smart defensive work, and he pulled who also played an excellent game on good style. A shot by Lawton hit the post, and then Liverpool had a spell of attacking which ended in Burnett making a high catch from Campbell.
Hulligan Again.
With only minutes to go it looked odds on Everton creeping though on the aggregate but from a breakway following an Everton attack Hulligan scrambled the ball over the line to make the sides level on the two games. Watson made a desperate dash to cover Burnett and kicked the ball away, but it had passed about a foot over the line.
Final; Liverpool3, Everton 0. (Extra time being played).
April 17, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool 3, Everton 0
135 Minutes Struggle
By Ranger.
The return Lancashire cup-tie between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield opposed and weakness of the "play to the finish" idea in war-time cup games. Liverpool starting three goals down after the Easter Monday "Derby" had levelled the deficit at the end of the normal ninety minutes period so that twenty minutes extra time was decreed. As the sides were still level after that play proceeded on what was supposed to be "fight to a finish" lines. It was a fight all right, in this Lancashire Cup-tie both sides keenly contesting every inch of ground, but there was no finish. At the end of a further twenty minutes the deciding goal seemed as far off as ever, and at this stage the match was held up for nearly ten minutes, while officials or both clubs discussed the position with the referee and players.
A Grim Battle.
Liverpool suggested tossing, for it, but several of the Everton players, who seemed to be steering the gruelling task a trifle better than the opposition, elected to continue. In order, not to prolong the test beyond endurable limits however, it was decided to cease after a further five minutes if no goals had been registered, and as none was scored the players trooped off after 135 minutes play with the issue still undecided. After the club had contacted the Lancashire F.A. it was announced that the latter's permission had been obtained for the reply to take place at Anfield on Wednesday evening (kick-off 7 o'clock). Liverpool having won the toss of venue. While at no period did the game reach any great heights of forward play it was raised above the mediocre by the Keen and resolute tackling of the defence –apart from early shakiness by Everton –and the grim manner both tired but determined sides fought it out to the last gasp.
Early Goals
Everton threw away their commanding lead by early defensive lapses which enabled Liverpool to score two goals in the first twenty-five minutes. The first came when Done picked up a long clearance from his own goal area and set Hulligan going, the latter being allowed to make his run in and shot without challenge. The next arose when Jones (T.G.) misheaded a spinning ball right to the feet of Done who made no mistake with such a grit, with only one goal left to wipe out Liverpool piled on such heavy pressure, that the visiting defence got rather rattled and miskicked frequently, but as time went on they settled down to give a sound display until four minutes from the end, when another quick Liverpool breakaway after an Everton attack saw Hulligan scramble through the equalising goal. Before this happened Everton had improved somewhat on their first half display, but attacking weaknesses at inside forward were such that their line was never combining in smooth fashion, and though Lawton and McIntosh each went near. Liverpool were so much quicker on the ball and so deadly in their tackling that Hobson was seldom seriously troubled. On top of that Everton's passes were constantly going adrift.
Test of endurance
From the start of extra time onwards it became merely a test of endurance. Neither side looked lively to score, for the shooting generally was below par but the fighting spirit of the players aroused the crowd's admiration and very few people left before the end. Everton were only a shadow of the side which had put up such a good display in the first game at Goodison on Monday. Bentham and Wainwright had their worst day this season and Lawton who was poorly supported rarely got the better of Hughes. McIntosh was their best forward. The defence was sound enough once it had overcome its early shakiness and T.G. Jones eager to retrieve his early mistake was an inspiriting and a tower of strength later. Burnett made some spectacular catches. Liverpool were well served by their backs who rarely put a foot wrong; by Hughes and Polk at half-back, while Done was a hardworking as usual. Nieuwenhuys tended to concentrate too much on helping the defence at a time when attack might have paid better dividends. Attendance 25,000. Receipts £1,800. Liverpool:- Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Polk, Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Nieuwenhuys, Done, Beattie, and Hulligan, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy)(captain), and Watson, half-backs; Jackson, Bentham, Lawton, Wainwright and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. J. I. White (Bolton).
• Everton Reserves beat Randles 3-1 (Liverpool Cup, semi-final).
April 17, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Merseyside's marathon "Derby" match –the longest in the entire history of Liverpool and Everton clashes dating back to 1892 –has brought about one of the worst fixture congestions in wartime seasons. The Blues and Reds have not battled for 227 minutes to try and decide which shall go forward to the Lancashire Cup semi-final against Blackburn Rovers. The clubs will meet again on Wednesday evening at Anfield at 7 o'clock to renew the struggle. Everton won the first game 3-0, but Liverpool won the second by the same score, necessitating 20 minutes extra time at Anfield on Saturday. That produced no goal so we had two ten minute periods of play-to-the-first-goal. Still no goals was scored, and officials and players gathered on the touchline trying to decide what to do. Players were weary even if the 25,000 spectators were not and it was agreed to resume the game. After another seven minutes however the referee quite rightly called a half, and we all trooped away to sort out the tangle which directly involved not only the Blues and Reds, but Blackburn, Southport and Wrexham. Mr. W. Dickinson, the Southport secretary was present to know whether his club had to play Liverpool on Saturday or go ahead with their home match with Wrexham. Mr. Will Gibbins, Everton chairman in the toss for choice of ground's for Wednesday's game, no one knew whether they could got ahead with the arrangements. Mr. Walter Cartwright member of the sub-committee running the county cup, would not make any decision. Mr. Theo Kelly and Mt. Jack Rouse got busy with the telephone. A call to Blackburn Rovers with an appeal to find Mr. Hargreaves brought a quick response in Mr. Reg Taylor, secretary manager of Blackburn Rovers coming through with the news that Mr. Hargreaves had gone to the pictures! A message had been left for Mr. Hargreaves to ring both clubs on his return. This Mr. Hargreaves did, and he gave necessary permission for Wednesday's replay, which will also count as a Football League fixture, and mean the eight clash of the season between our local rivals.
Ifs And Ands"
It was seven o'clock before we at last got away from Anfield and so the club officials had to be on the telephones for hours later trying to sort out the "jig-saw." Some daylight was brought to bear on the matter yesterday when Mr. Arthur Paine, of Bury, came into the position to snap up any of the clubs concerned for a game on Saturday. So this is the position at the moment. If Liverpool defeat Everton on Wednesday the Saturday arrangements will be Liverpool v. Blackburn Rovers, Bury v. Everton, Southport v. Wrexham. However, should Everton win on Wednesday the Saturday matches will be; Everton v. Blackburn Rovers, Southport v Liverpool (Liverpool Senior Cup semi-final) and Bury v. Wrexham.
Anfield Lessons
Happenings at Anfield in recent weeks, have, however expected to the full the ridiculousness of extra-time and "play-to-first-goal" football. We had our first experience of it in the North Cup-tie between the Reds and Manchester City when weariness and not the City beat Liverpool. Now comes this second, and even more flagrant, case of the needless punishment of wholehearted-players. I think the legislators will now see that without training players must not be asked to undergo such gruelling. Much rather the decision on corners in the second "legs" of the cup-ties or even the spin of a coin to this unnecessary "flogging" of the players. The extra time periods never produce a true result. By that time –as at Anfield on Saturday –the ball is complete master of the players, and play during these periods is no true test of merit. I say without fear that we were in danger on Saturday of having a perfectly unjust result. Everton, hammered and outclassed for 90 minutes had more of the game in that extra portions, and the better scoring chances. But –had Everton snatched the victory during those leg-weary periods it would have been a gross injustice to a brilliant Liverpool, who, on the day's play, deserved to win by a more substantial margin than 3-0. Had the Reds lost their cup place during that time when no one knew or no one cared what was going on or going to happen it would have been a football tragedy. The Everton officials agreed with me on this point just as they agreed that Liverpool on the day, were much the superior side in another thriller which proved that no matter how many "Derby" games we get during a season their piquancy never wanes. In dealing with this unending game the extra periods can be dismissed by the simple statement that it became a case of a ball "playing" with 22 players, whereas in the real match we had 22 players playing with the ball –and Liverpool playing with Everton. This was a match in which we saw Liverpool in excises. I doubt whether they have ever faced a more formidable task and yet fulfilled it in such brilliant manner. The very pace and incisiveness of Liverpool made one breathless. By sheer collective and individual craftsmanship and amazing speed they made the Everton who had won so readily at Goodison Park look like selling platers up against classic colts at times. I cannot readily recall such a transformation, although it is characteristic of the spirit of Anfield that they are the best "fighters back" in the whole land. Three goals down, and knowing that another goal against would have spelt "finis" the Reds seemed to go out with the fixed determination that they would take a grip on the game right away and assume the position of mastery. They did just that. From the opening whistle Everton were made to appear second-rate by the super-brilliance of Liverpool. That Liverpool did not score more than three was surprising. Their play deserved it. Yet each of the three goals taken were due to defensive blunders. Soccer is like that. Hulligan's first goal was shot home with the shin and bounced three times before striking the net; Done's goal was directly from a headed ball by Tommy Jones, which the Everton captain obviously thought was going to Greenhalgh, and the last goal –four minutes from time –was pushed in and not shot and it trickled along the goalline and then over before Greenhalgh could hook it away. The Reds grandest scoring efforts served to bring the best in Burnett –and that best is tops –while it was Hobson who made the save of the day –a catch from McIntosh's lightning shot, while actually in mid-air as he dived. That was the nearest Everton got to winning the tie apart from two golden chances to Jackson, in extra time.
Electrifying "Nivvy."
The man who in my opinion won the game for Liverpool was Berry Nieuwenhuys, the South African. At inside right "Nivvy" electrified Liverpool; urged them; aye, compelled them, Nieuwenhuys instilled into his side, as captain, an enthusiasm and spirit which pushed the team into top gear and kept them there. Not often have I seen faster or more accurate football than that which Liverpool served up for fully an hour without faltering. Everton appeared to be two yards slower, and quickly seemed to get an inferiority complex. Anyway, the Blues became slow to possession slow to "kill" and slow and inaccurate in parting, I do not say that Everton were a poor team so much as they were made to appear poor by the grandeur of Nieuwenhuys and his colleagues, who played in the old "all-for-one-and-one-for-all" spirit. It is better and fairer to think of Liverpool as a team in this triumph, but mention must be made of the perfect understanding between Niewenhuys and Beattie, the diligence and cute moves of Beattie, the fine line leadership of Done, who worried Tommy Jones to a point of distraction; to the opportunism and leggy moves of Mick Hulligan, the perfection of Stan Polk, and the solidity of the defence, with Westby once again holding the mastery over McIntosh. Gulliver and Pilling kept the Everton right flank out of it, and Campbell came out well considering he was up against the game's best back, Greenhalgh. Hobson never faltered and neither did Burnett whose flying leaps and catches so vividly recaptured memories of the "Boss," Ted Sagar. For Everton their shortcoming was at inside forward –besides lack of pace of course –for the defence was good –it had to be against this rip-roaring Liverpool –except for some wry kicks in anxiety. There was never a sufficient guile or combination among the Everton attackers for Lawton ever to have a chance of avoiding Laurie Hughes, who again demonstrated to all and sundry that he is a certain international of the future I purposely left reference to Hughes to this point just again to link him with Lawton to whom he was so "attached" on Saturday. Lawton suffered through lack of support and although he so often out headed Hughes there was rarely anyone at hand to take advantage, and the quick Hughes was able to recover. Lack of support from inside as well as Hughes kept Lawton away from his 60th goal. Young Grant thrilled and delighted by his dauntless play and the ground he covered, while Gordon Watson and Jack Jones were fine. That also goes for Tommy Jones, many of whose delicious manipulations compensated the soccer-lovers for the few errors. Tommy is always a joy to watch, just as was Tommy Bradshaw, who attended the game. A grand afternoon's football, and definitely Liverpool's day. Do not miss the "third" session on Wednesday, teams for which at the moment are a little obscure.
April 17, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Liverton Replay on Wednesday
Ranger's Notes
The inability of Liverpool and Everton to settle their Lancashire Cup-tie brings an unexpected windfall to those folk who normally cannot get away to Saturday matches as the replay has been arranged for Wednesday evening (kick-off 7 o'clock) at Anfield. Saturday's long drawn-out "marathon" the exposed the weak spot in the "play to a finish, idea Hitherto, this has worked out reasonably well, but there was always the danger that two sides some time would find that the finish wouldn't come not even by the time cows came home. That was what happened at Anfield. After 135 minutes continuous struggle the sides were still level on aggregate –making 225 minutes play in all in the two games –and the longer it went the less likely did a decision appear to be. After 130 minutes we had remarkable sight of directors and manages of both clubs confabbing with the players and referee on the sideline to search of a solution. Liverpool suggested tossing, but the Everton players who had done much better in the extra time than in the normal 90 minutes, and seemed slightly the less exhausted by the ordeal voted for carrying on. To keep the thing within reasonable bounds however Mr. Walter Cartwright representing the Lancashire F.A. instructed the referee to abandon the game, if there was no further score in the next five minutes. There wasn't and the players trooped wearily off. They'd put up a grand show of endurance and determination, if not of the finer arts of football and the crowd seemed disappointed that it was over. The game was the longest ever played in one continuous period on the same afternoon between League clubs, though the tie itself is a long way from being a record. The Barrow-Gillingham one in 1925 last 570 minutes.
Their Own Fault
Everton have only themselves to blame that they have to fight from scratch all over again. With a three goal lead they started off as though they had it "all sewn up" but the stitches soon burst open under Liverpool's quick fire attack and keen and deadly tackling and the Everton defence normally so cool showed signs of nerves and slackness, Hulligan emphasised the value of speed sand a quick shot with his first goal which he was allowed to get without being challenged, and Done snapped up Tommy Jones's gift-offering just as rapidly. With only 25 minutes gone and now only a goal in it. Liverpool staged one of those fighting rallies that always sends the blood pressure of the Kopites up. They got the visiting defence so anxious that there was a lot of miskicking, and only good fortune and Liverpool's own over-eagerness prevented Everton sliding further down the slope. In the second half Everton improved in so far as the defence overcame it's jitters and gave a much better show, but the least said about the attack the better. The inside forwards were terribly weak. Lawton rarely got the better of Hughes, Jackson was just ordinary, and McIntosh was the only anywhere near his normal form –and then only in spasms. After their grand display on Monday this was like the concert following the Lord Mayors' show, and it was well the Everton defence came back to something like solidity, otherwise Liverpool would have got more than an equalising goal a scrambling sort of thing scored by Hulligan four minutes from the end of normal time, but once again demonstrating the value of the quick through pass and the speedy sprint and shot. Fortunes fluctuated in the 45 minutes extra time, and both goals had occasional escapes, but the defence remained superior to the end. Everton struck me as slightly the better stayers and had the match really gone to a finish, I think they might have made it via Lawton and McIntosh, who strove manfully in the closing stages but Liverpool thoroughly deserved the right to a replay by reason of their fighting spirit and refusal to be intimated by the size of the deficit which faced them at the start. Everton's best were Grant, Burnett, and the backs and T.G. Jones after they'd settled down. Liverpool were well served by a grand half back line, in which Hughes and Polk were brilliant, by a pair of backs who never put a foot wrong, and by Done, Beattie, and Hulligan in the forwards.
April 18, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Liverpool and Everton will endeavour to straighten put their Lancashire Senior Cup rivalry tomorrow night when at Anfield they clash for the third time to try and decide who shall have the honours of entertaining Blackburn Rovers in the semi-final on Saturday. So far the clubs have played 227 minutes, and the score stands level 3-3. Everton having won the first match 3-0, and Liverpool recording the same score in the second game which ran on into the night last Saturday. The spin of the coin gave Liverpool the right to stage the match which we all hope will prove the decider. Naturally the midweek fans are delighted that they get such an attraction in "Lean days," but I can tell them that the match itself trembled in the balance. The Lancashire F.A. gave consent for a mid-week replay, but the Football League have refused to sanction it as a League game, and Mr. Theo Kelly, secretary of Everton, had to get in touch with Mr. S.F. Rous, of the Football Association, before being able to say definitely that the match was "on." A telephone conversation, however, brought back the "okay" and so at seven o'clock tomorrow the teams will trot out again side by side to resume where they left off on Saturday evening. Mr. Kelly devoted practically all yesterday to telephoning to ensure that the match had official sanction. No fewer than five telephones calls were made to Preston, six to Blackburn and seven to London. Mr. Kelly even induced Mr. Hargreaves to return to his office in the evening so that constant contact could be kept. Mr. Rous said last night that had the match been played with reference to the F.A there would have been an inquiry, but now everything is in order. The sanction of the F.A establishes the fact that midweek evening matches are now permissible and for that all thanks go to Mr. Kelly for his persistence.
Eight "Derby."
This will be the eight time the clubs have clashed this season, and so far Liverpool claim six victories to two by the Blues. Every game so far has been a top-notcher and I see no reason why tomorrow's should not prove equally attractive. The players will have recovered from the strain of those 137 tense Saturday minutes by now. Both clubs will make changes as compared with Saturday's, and there may be some welcome surprises. Liverpool will not have Nieuwenhuys, but their defence and half-back will be unaltered and as Hulligan is not available Hall will doubtless be brought in at outside right, allowing Campbell to switch to the left. Jack Balmer's name is also in the team, but Jack mentioned to me on Saturday that he was still not fit, and doubted whether he would be able to play again this season. However, if he can so much the better. Everton will be making changes at inside forward, although it is improbable that there will be any changes in the rear division for all backs and half-backs are available. Forwards remain Everton's paramount problem. Taking a line through last Saturday's game Everton need tremendous improvement in attack if they are to prevail. Liveliness is sorely needed at inside forward, and the wingers must get the ball across to Jim McIntosh I would give the hint that a change of tactics will bring better results. Westby knows that by staying with McIntosh he has him beaten, and so "Mac," by continually trying close dribbles, is merely asking for trouble. To outwit Westby, McIntosh must part with the ball immediately, being content simply to draw Westby and then slip it. There is no gainsaying that Westby has played McIntosh better than any other back. Jimmy has faced this term, and I have not forgotten the good shows of Anderson, of Tranmere and Jones of Wrexham. It woud be tantamount to "leading with the chin" to try and tip the winners of this struggle, and the only tip I will give with confidence is that this will be a grand game in a season of the cleanest and most sportsmanlike series of "Derby" games in years. Yes, and we may have extra time again. Liverpool (from); Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Polk, Hughes, Pilling; Hall, Balmer, Done, Beattie, Campbell.
APRIL 18, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
Next episode in the thrilling Liverton cup serial will be "screened" at Anfield tomorrow, one house only (7 o'clock), with all star cast bringing the glamour of the big ball game right to the half-holiday fans doorsteps, and all in glorious Technicolor. This is Episode Three in the pulsating drama of the eternal struggle between Blues and Reds. But just read the synopsis of Episodes One and Two. "Billey" Goodison's gang suave and polished covet a handsome silver trophy for their bosses sideboard. But "Red" Anfield's boys though they haven't the same traditions of as nice a sideboard, have similar ideas about that cup and this meant war if not to the knife, at any rate to the shin guard. A week ago the Goodison gang lured the Anfielders to their headquarters, ostensibly for a quiet afternoon's fun and games, but in reality to put em on the spot which they did by three wallops to nil. Not behind in the courtesy racket, the Anfield lads suggested the Goodison gents should give their own Stadium the once-over last Saturday, saying to themselves "We'll show these wise guys where they get off." They'd get something there too, for the Goodison lads thinking they were bound to hit the jackpot with three home runs already in the kitty found the Reds rivals lambasting the daylights out of them to the tune of three equalising wallops. The Blues shined guys than set out to softer up these hard bozos in the Reds circles and nearly did it when Mugasy McIntosh hit a piled river that almost led to a post mortem of the Reds, back stop but just at this exciting stage, the umpire marked it all up by tooting for time and leaving as a topes hatigover for Episode Three tomorrow night. That's enough of that. We'll have the rest in basic English, if only because it refers to a more serious side of the matter namely moves behind the scenes yesterday which threatened to stop the replay. Two years ago the Home Office suggested it was not in the best interest of the war to stage into week football matches. Though this was generally interpreted by clubs as meaning afternoon games, the F.A. were in some doubt as to whether tomorrow's game, though in the evening might not come within the ban, and up to late last night the issue is in the balance. Duel to the efforts of Mr. Theo Kelly who contacted headquarters of the League and the F.A on behalf of both clubs the governing body finally agreed to sanction the game. Now that this mid-week point has not been officially raised however, it would be well to settle it for good. Hitherto as I've pointed out before there's been no consistency between the F.A. and its county bodies and even the F.A itself has shown discrimation though no doubt based on good grounds. While I'm dead against any forms of sporting events which are likely in the all accounts to linder the war effort, and all along have emphasised that in these days sports must take a back seat, I must confess that so long as cinemas, theatres and other entertainment are available in the evening I'm a little puzzled to understand the discomlization against evening football. Now for the teams Everton won't announce their until tomorrow, but I can tell you that Mr. Theo Kelly hopes to draft in some star guests to stiffen last Saturday's weak spots. Liverpool's side includes Balmer, who is now practically fit again.
April 19, 1944. The Evening Express.
Pilot's Log
The Liverpool and Everton football clubs decided late last night in view of the feeling of the Football Association and the Home Office that they would not go on with the Lancashire Senior Cup replay at Anfield this evening. This decision was reached only after prolonged conferences and innumerable telephone calls. Difficulties arose because Mr. Fred Hargreaves, secretary of the Lancashire F.A. was away from home on a referees 'meeting and could not b contacted. The last word Mr. Hargreaves said before he went away was "So far as we are concerned, the match is on." Later I was in direct touch with the F.A
In London, and when I asked did they intend notifying the two clubs and the Lancashire F.A that the match must not be played, Mr. Earle, assistant to Mr. S.F Rouse, replied, "We are not notifying them because they know the Home Office request on the point." Mr. R. Lawson Martindale, chairman of Liverpool, called to see me to get a complete view of the whole position, and I went through to Everton's meeting to keep them in touch with the official attitude. With the Lancashire F.A. saying it was "on" and the F.A. adopting non-committal attitude in that they would not give direct word to the clubs, the whole decision was thrust upon the clubs themselves. Quite rightly the clubs refused to accept the responsibility or in other words "carry the baby" and so they naturally agreed to let the date go by, and refer the entire matter to the County F.A who, after all are directly responsible. The whole point is that no party seemed to desire to make a real decision. The Lancashire F.A. should have got into touch with Mr. Rous before sending out letters to Everton and Liverpool saying the match was in order. As a matter of fact, on those letters –received on Monday –the clubs could have carried on, but to do so would have been tantamount to "leading with the chin." Both clubs have been devoting hours contacting players for the midweek game, and as late as eleven o'clock last night Wally Boyes rang Mr. Theo Kelly to say he was able to play. Mr. Kay was put practically all day trying to scrape a team together. Now. It was all wasted energy.
April 21, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log.
The Lancashire Senior Cup "marathon" between Liverpool and Everton may be concluded tomorrow at Anfield with the winning captain's hand being raised in the air. This will bring back memories of the many championship contests staged at the same ground, but... it may not be necessary.
Team Doubts
At the moment of writing, both clubs are still rather undecided regarding their teams, but each will lack prominent players, for Niuewenhuys, inspiration of last week's Liverpool rally, cannot get away, and Welsh will be on reserve for England. Everton will be without Tommy Lawton, who will be leading England at Hampden Park. Liverpool defence and half-backs will be unchanged, but there will be a forward switch. Campbell going to outside-left, with Hall coming in at outside-right, I think Campbell is at his happiest when linked with Bobbie Beattie, the Reds premier creator these days. Balmer as I mentioned last week, us unable to play, and Manger Mr. George Kay is seeking an inside-right. Secretary Mr. Theo Kelly, of the Blues has had a hectic 24 hours' searching for players, and now comes out with 15 stars, including some excellent "guest" players who will, if playing, be having their first game with the club. The exception is Lew Ashcroft, of Tranmere Rovers, who played for Everton against Blackpool last season. "Danny" Glidden, also of the Rovers, Rogers, of Wrexham, and Tommy Astbury, of Chester, are other prominent forwards who may be here. The names of Glidden, Rogers and Astbury remain in their own club teams, but circumstances may decide their being at Anfield. Mr. Kelly will make final decision just before the game at which time Mr. Kay will know whether Billy Fagan can play. Wires have been sent to the Scot, and a reply is awaited. This should prove another excellent struggle as keen, and I am confident as clean, as the seventh
"Derby" games which have so delighted us this season. Of the seven Liverpool claim five wins to Everton's brace. The league championship enters into the matter as a side issue, although the three clubs above these level Merseysiders will have to suffer heavy reverses to give either Reds or Blues a chance of "nipping in." Still, each season there is always abundant interest among the local enthusiasts as to which will finish highest between the two. Tomorrow's match may settle it. I anticipate that there will be more people at Anfield tomorrow than last Saturday when 25,060 paid for admission for last week, many people thought that with Everton leading 3-0 it was all over. Those who had reckoned without Liverpool's fighting spirit will be coming along to see the end of a tie which has lasted 227 minutes up to now. The sides start level tomorrow, and that makes a tremendous difference. The spot the winners is not easy, but I do assert that unless Everton reveal tremendous improvement at inside forward, they will lose. The defence are all right, and it seems that potency in attack, will settle a game starting at 3 o'clock –and ending not later than 5.5 p.m. even a toss. Liverpool; Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Polk, Hughes, Pilling; Hall, A.N.Other; Done, Beattie, Campbell; Everton; Burnett; Jones (Jack), Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Ashcroft, (Tranmere Rovers), Rogers (Wrexham), Bentham, Glidden (Tranmere Rovers), Wyles, Astbury (Chester), Boyes, McIntosh.
April 21, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
After two abortive games involving 225 minutes football. Liverpool and Everton renew their Lancashire cup-tie struggle at Anfield. This time there will be no chance of "no-decision" match for if the sides are level after 20 minutes, extra time, they will toss for it. Should extra time be necessary, the first goal scored during that period automatically ends the match. Everton will have to do better than they did in the normal period of last week's game to win the replay. They threw away what looked like a cast iron certainty by their half-speed methods defensive lapses, and wretchedly poor passing. It a long time since I saw a game where do many passes went to the opposition or to a marked colleague. It was only in the extra 15 minutes that they really pulled up their socks and produced anything like their previous form, by which time it was too late. Early goals in a cup-tie are a big psychological benefit for the opposition tends to get rattled as time gets short, but if Everton get a lead this time, they mustn't think they've got it all sewn up again, of they may suffer another shock. Personally I fancy Liverpool to win this. The return of Balmer, if he's thoroughly fit, and not "ring rusty" ought to bring more effectiveness to their front line. While Everton's defence will probably be unchanged, Mr. Theo Kelly is endeavouring to strengthen the attack. The definite line will not be known until just before the match, but the eight probables' include Tranmere, Wrexham , and Chester guests. Liverpool; Hobson; Westby, Gulliver; Polk, Hughes, Pilling; Hall, A.N.Other; Done, Beattie, Campbell; Everton; Burnett; Jones (Jack), Greenhalgh; Grant, Jones (Tommy), Watson; Ashcroft, (Tranmere Rovers), Rogers (Wrexham), Bentham, Glidden (Tranmere Rovers), Wyles, Astbury (Chester), Boyes, McIntosh.
April 22, 1944. The Evening Express
Everton's Fight with Ten Men
Several new "guest" stars appeared in the Liverpool and Everton teams for the third stage of the Lancashire Senior Cup marathon at Anfield today. Liverpool introduced Jimmy Dougal, of Preston N.E, at outside left, and Whiteside, of Blackburn Rovers, at right half. Curiously enough, the winners meet Blackburn Rovers in the semi-final. Everton had Rogers, of Wrexham, and Astbury of Chester, comprising their right wing and Wyles led the attack. The usual shower of Lemons for players' refreshment greeted the teams as they took the field in a game due for decision by the spin of a coin, if 110 minutes failed to bring a decision. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Whiteside (Blackburn Rovers), Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Polk, Done, Beattie (Preston), and Dougal (Preston), forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Rogers (Wrexham), Astbury (Chester), Wyles, Bentham, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee Mr. F. White (Bolton). Liverpool immediately piled Dougal who three times, however, found Grant a stumbling block, and when Rogers got through Hughes had to come across to hold him off. Rogers twice past Gulliver, but Liverpool covered well, and then the Everton defence showed perfect co-ordination in clearing their lines.
Opening Goal.
A magnificent through pass by Greenhalgh was directly responsible for Everton taking the lead in eight minutes through Tommy Jones. McIntosh persisted until he had won a corner, and he delayed the taking of it –the first of the game –to give Tommy Jones a chance to get into position. Jones, from the far corner of the goal area, headed perfectly into the near corner, having actually to leap around one man to reach the ball. The Everton forwards bewildered the Liverpool defence for a few minutes with the neatness of their passing, and when Done was going through he fell to a perfect clearance by Tom Jones, who, however, was bowled over and carried off. Bentham took the centre half position. Liverpool failed to profit from a close-up free kick, and then their inside forwards kept the ball too close when faced with such stern tacklers as Bentham and Grant. Astbury got Liverpool running the wrong way and fed Rogers with the pass perfection, but Gulliver made a magnificent recovery. In 15 minutes Liverpool were awarded a penalty against Grant for an infringement on Campbell as he was going through, Done, who was limping, equalised form the spot. So once again the sides were level. It was only to be expected that Liverpool should enjoy the better of the subsequent play, but Everton stuck to their guns, and it was only a brilliant intervention by Hughes which held up Astbury. Polk ran through cleverly and when Bentham tried to trick Done, the centre-forward got the better of him, but Burnett came out to clear magnificent. Greenhalgh held up Done but the ball ran to Campbell, whose first time shot was only inches over the top. Wyles found three defenders too much to beat, and this reduction of forward power was Everton's paramount difficulty. Bentham tackled Done as he was in the act of shooting, and the ball was running to Dougal, but Burnett dived to turn it aside. Still Liverpool persisted in the attack, and when the ball came out to Campbell he found himself tackled –and effectively –by Burnett, who had spotted the danger. Bentham made a splendid clearance off Done only to be penalised, but justice was done when Done drove into the crowd. Wyles and McIntosh interchanged positions cleverly and Gulliver had to make a hasty kick to check Rogers. Everton were playing really heroic football in face of their handicap. McIntosh fulfilling a roving commission and doing it well. Whiteside shot by the near post before Burnett ran out to kick away from Dougal. Everton's defence might have been unorthodoxy's, but certainly it was effective. Rogers swept by Gulliver and sent in a hook shot which almost crept in by the far post. Hobson just managing to turn it around for a corner as he collided with the post. Wyles pulled the ball around Hughes to let go a good shot which Hobson saved comfortably. From Greenhalgh's long free kick Wyles shot at point blank range, and Hobson got the ball on the line. McIntosh followed up and turned it over the line, but for some reason, and much to the disappointment of Everton, the referee disallowed the goal and gave Liverpool a free kick on the goal-line. Burnett made a flying catch from Dougal right on the interval.
Half-time; -Liverpool 1, Everton 1.
Tommy Jones was out of the game for the day, and, in fact, had left the ground when the teams went off for the interval. It was only to be expected that Liverpool should call the tune, and they did so enterprisingly, only to find Everton strong enough to meet all calls. Dougal and Beattie treated us to a number of their best Preston tricks, their combination being positively delightful. Bentham, Jack Jones and Greenhalgh literally defied attack after attack, but in 53 minutes Liverpool took the lead with a great shot by Polk. Receiving from Campbell, Polk, let go from the edge of the penalty area –a grand shot which gave Burnett little chance. Everton responded, Rodgers being inches wide with a header from McIntosh's centre. Everton met with more bad luck when, after an all-in attack, Wyles, worried Hobson, and Rodgers shot was sailing home when Westby kept it out with his hand right on the goal-line. There were strong cried of penalty, but the referee allowed play to proceed, and it was only after Everton had implored that he consulted a linesman. However, the referee's decision remained unaltered. Immediately afterwards the ball was pushed up the middle, where Done glided it into the corner for Liverpool's third goal. Time, 65 minutes. Everton reduced the lead and their plucky deserved a goal –when Wyles scored in 81 minutes. In 88 minutes Done scored a fourth for Liverpool. Final –Liverpool 4, Everton 2. Liverpool won on the aggregate 7-5.
April 22, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Lancashire Cup Replay
Everton Ten Men
By Stork.
Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Whiteside (Blackburn Rovers), Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Polk, Done, Beattie (Preston), and Dougal (Preston), forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Rogers (Wrexham), Astbury (Chester), Wyles, Bentham, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee Mr. F. White (Bolton). There was quite a big crowd for the Lancashire Cup replay at Anfield and the spectators saw Liverpool make a strong attack through their right wing. Rodgers and Astbury replied for Everton, and the outside men showed some clever footwork in beating the Liverpool defence. Everton putting on stiff pressure, soon gained a corner. McIntosh took the flag kick and "found" T.G. Jones unmarked. The latter had run up without being seen, and when the ball came across he nodded it down into the Liverpool net at eight minutes. Everton, after this goal suffered severe blows, Jones (T.G.) in making a desperate tackled to prevent Done from getting through injured his leg and had to leave the field with assistance.
Done Penalty.
Campbell, after cleverly rounding Watson, was making headlong for goal when he was pushed over by Grant in the penalty area. The referee without hesitation gave a penalty, from which Done scored at 16 minutes. Done tried a lob with Burnett out of goal, but missed his objective, and later he shot against Burnett's leg after taking the ball away from Bentham's toe. Campbell drove a shot over the angle of the woodwork and he missed a rare chance when he failed with an open goal starring him in the face. Everton rarely attacked now because they were too intent on defence, and there was no denying that Liverpool were out to get quick goals if possible. In one of Everton's rare advances Hobson had to save from Wyles, and Gulliver had to be alert to keep out Rodgers.
Whenever Everton attacked, they always found themselves out-numbered. Yet they had their moments as for instance when Wyles shot and Hobson saved. Hobson was charged and seemed to carry the ball over the line, but the goal was disallowed because the referee maintained that the goalkeeper had been fouled. The Everton defence under great stress had played magnificently, particularly Bentham, who had many rare tussles with Done. Jones (T.G.) had injured an ankle, it was learned, and would take no further part in the game.
Half-time; Liverpool 1, Everton 1.
Polk Gains Lead.
After a Campbell shot had been cannoned out, and Done had missed with a header, Liverpool took the lead at 53 minutes, Polk scoring with a fast rising shot that literally flew under the Everton crossbar. Astbury headed over, missed by inches, and Wyles was close with a grand effort.
Appeal Dismissed
Everton were putting up a valiant front and when Rodgers shot Westby who was standing on the goal line appeared to handle the ball and thus saved a goal, Everton players protested and the referee sought the assistance of a linesman, after which he refused the Everton appeal. Almost immediately afterwards Done collected a Polk pass, beat Bentham in a race for the ball, and shot into the Everton net as Burnett rushed out of goal. This was at 65 minutes. At 81 minutes Everton reduced the lead, Rodgers had a shot saved, but the trouble, was never rally cleared, and Wyles coming up hotfooted scored with a powerful shot which left Hobson with no chance. Astbury had a golden opportunity of equalising, but was beaten just in the neck of time. With two minutes to go Done broke through, seemed to lose his chance and possession of the ball, recovered, and went on to shoot well wide of Burnett, making the score Liverpool 4, Everton 2. Attendance 24,404.
April 24, 1944. The Liverpool Daily Post
Liverpool 4, Everton 2
Everton Fight Hard
By Stork.
The long drawn-out Lancashire Cup-tie "derby" as brought to a conclusion when Liverpool defeated Everton 4-2 in the replay at Anfield, to bring their aggregate up to 7-5. Liverpool had the game in their hands after the first ten minutes for at this point T.G. Jones received an ankle injury which kept him off the field for the rest of the game. Although Everton batted along magnificently, they ultimately found the burden of that handicap too great. Jones opened the day's account with a goal at eight minutes for Everton. Liverpool launched attack after attack, but they met grim opposition. A penalty goal brought them the equaliser when Grant pushed Campbell. Done scoring from the spot. Everton will always consider that they were harshly treated when they netted again and had a goal disallowed by the referee, who asserted that Hobson had been fouled. I certainly though they should have had a penalty when Westby appeared to keep a shot by Rodgers out of the net with his hand. Everton claimed strongly, and the linesman's opinion was sought, but the decision remained "no goal."
Outstanding Players.
Polk scored a second goal and Done the remaining two. It was Dougal astute passes which brought about the latter pair, for he pushed the ball through perfectly for the Liverpool centre forward to take up in his stride . Everton produced a fighting finish. Wyles reduced the arrears and shortly afterwards Astbury missed an open goal with only a few minutes to play. Done's third goal two minutes from the end prevented another period of extra time. The game was not so good as the first two but there were some fine players, Polk was excellent; Done was good, Dougal quite, but effective, with the remainder of the defence steady, but something anxious under pressure. For Everton Rodgers (Wrexham) did many smart things, but I have seen Astbury (Chester) in better form. Wyles had no support yet kept plugging away and making some wise passes, but the line was topsy-turvy, with McIntosh having a roving commission. He later came back to the wing and it was than that Everton showed their teeth. The tie had lasted 315 minutes in all. The attendance was 24,404. Liverpool; Hobson, goal; Westby and Gulliver, backs; Whiteside (Blackburn Rovers), Hughes and Pilling, half-backs; Campbell, Polk, Done, Beattie (Preston), and Dougal (Preston), forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jones (Jack) and Greenhalgh, backs; Grant, Jones (Tommy) (captain), and Watson, half-backs; Rogers (Wrexham), Astbury (Chester), Wyles, Bentham, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee Mr. F. White (Bolton).
• England beat Scotland at Hampden Park 3-2, in front of 135 spectators. Mercer and Lawton played for England and Lawton scored one goal.
April 24, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
The Lancashire Cup prolonged tie between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield on Saturday provided a fitting climax to three keen struggles in which the gods of fortune have been as whimsical as April weather. Sympathy, naturally, goes immediately to Everton, who, after securing a goal lead in eight minutes per Tommy Jones' header from a corner, lost Jones after 12 minutes with a swollen ankle, and had to battle the remaining 78 minutes with only ten players. There were other happenings, too, which made it patent that this was not Everton's day. Yet.... in naming Everton "luckless" one must not forget that throughout this long tie it was not until the 280th minute of the duel that Liverpool at last got their noses in front. That was when Stan Polk cracked home that 25 yards beauty on Saturday to set the Reds heading for victory. For the rest Liverpool had been fighting to wipe out leads first the three Everton secured at Goodison Park –a feat accomplished successfully –and than that Jones goal on Saturday. Of course, the difficulty of wiping out leads was nothing compared to the handicap to which Everton were subjected. The loss of Tom Jones was one of the worst possible blows. The defence did not suffer tremendously for Stan Bentham made a brilliant deputy, but it had the effect of reducing the striking power of the Everton attack. Liverpool are hard enough to beat with eleven men let alone ten. The loss of Jones cost Everton the game. Everton in my opinion should have had two more goals. In the first half after Hobson had saved from Wyles on the goal line Rodgers got the ball over the line, but instead of giving Everton a goal the ruling was a free kick for Liverpool. The Everton players are still wondering why this should have been done, and so am I. Then, when only a goal down a scoring shot from Rodgers was knocked away off the goal line by a hand. There was loud cries of "penalty" but the referee ignored the appeals and his decision was unaltered after he had been requested to consult a linesman. I certainly thought it a penalty. From the very point Liverpool went further ahead, the brilliant Done slipping through for a third goal. Everton came fighting back and reduced it to one goal, nine minutes from time with a goal from Wyles, but two minutes from the end Done's accurate shooting clinched it. The Reds' equaliser in the first half came from a penalty, not a soul disputing this, being the first of Done's three-bag. Liverpool have often played better than in this game and yet lost. Their trouble was mainly psychological. When Tom Jones went off there was a Red tendency to think they had nothing to beat and they pandered to the fancy, close-passing stuff which is foreign to their usual procedure. By going in for the dainty stuff instead of following the lead of the big-hearted Done they played into the hands of an heroic Everton, who lost the game but won the glory. The entire Everton defence and half-backs were brilliant and forwards came back to lend aid. And near the end, when the Blues flung all into attack, Liverpool had many anxious moments. Watchers were working overtime. I can assure you. Liverpool were the better football side on the day, for Everton naturally were disjointed, but we must hand it to Everton for grit, pluck, and determination qualities, which made this a thrill-packed game, with interest maintained right to the end. Astbury (Chester) and Rodgers (Wrexham) were much more serviceable to the Blues as new "guests" than were Dougal and Whiteside "guest" to the Reds. Rodgers is a lad Everton signed on junior forms ten seasons ago, but the club did not go on with it. Pity Rodgers was one of the big successes of the game and Astbury, for long an Everton "fancy" was delightful in the field. Wyles was quite a success at centre forward despite having to play a lone hand so much, while McIntosh covered more ground than anyone in Everton's great fight to defy fate. However, chief heroes were Bentham, and the backs and wing halves. How they played. Liverpool lacked their customary "zip" as a side, but Done and Polk –Polk is a vastly improved player –were stars of the attack, with Laurie Hughes the big man in defence so ably backed by Westby and Hobson. Gulliver hardly knew what to make of the fleet-footed, quick-thinking Rodgers. Beattie was cuteness personified, and he and Jimmy Dougal were a grand combination. A match to enjoy and certainly one to talk about, but that is in keeping with our "Derby" struggles. I think Liverpool win the Cup, for Welsh and Balmer are expected back next Saturday.
April 24, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
The third meeting of Everton and Liverpool in the Lancashire Cup-tie which had supplied nearly 90,000 spectators with 5 ½ hours of football, came to an end at Anfield on Saturday when Liverpool qualified to meet Blackburn Rovers in the semi-final (writes Stork). Everton's hopes were dashed at the tenth minute when T.G. Jones had to retire from the game with a damaged ankle, but it did not produce the easy win for Liverpool that his absence suggested, for Everton fought gallantly and kept the interest until the last few minutes. Before his going, Jones had scored the first goal of the day so Everton not only lost a grand defender, but a potential goal-scorer. Everton claim that they were the unlucky ones of the match, for not only were they deprived of Jones's services, but that they had a good goal disallowed and a case of "hands" which did not bring the usual award –a penalty. I considered it was a penalty; the referee however, would not change his mind –not even after consultation with the linesman. It was soon after that when Liverpool took a two goals lead. It was only natural that Everton for the major portion of the game were a defensive unit. Bentham went centre half with McIntosh having a roving mission behind the front line, and let it be said the Everton rearguard put their hearts and souls into the task of stemming the tide which often ran swiftly against them. But they had to yield towards the end. When the score stood at 3-2 for the Anfielders, Everton were striving tooth and nail for an equaliser and they should have got it when Astbury was right through the Liverpool defence but shot terribly wide from an easy position. Done was Everton's main worry. He was bang on his toes, every ready to rush down the middle and as a result of his pertinacity he scored three goals, the last two coming from perfect passes from Dougal, the Preston North End winger. His first was from a penalty goal, awarded for Grants foul on Campbell. Polk's goal was a bonny one, and Jones's point was obtained through his creeping up unbeknown to the Liverpool defences, and heading McIntosh's corner kick in the net. Jones's injury was a badly sprained ankle.
April 26, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Tommy Jones, the captain of Everton and Wales, will not be able to lead his country against England at Ninan Park on May 6. What is more, Tommy will not be able to play football again for a least two months following the ankle injury received in last Saturday's match against Liverpool. Tommy called to show me the condition of his ankle, I found it badly swollen and considerably bruised –four days after the accident. Obviously, Jones was a wise man not to have attempted to go back on the field on Saturday. It would have been physically impossible and might have affected his careers at that. Jones has had hospital treatment since returning to his R.A.F unit and in fact, hastened away from Anfield on Saturday to ensure that he received treatment as soon as possible. Tommy was back with his unit before teatime. "Had it been humanly possible for me to return to play on Saturday I would have done so," said "Tommy" but you can see for yourself how impossible such a thing was." I agree. That ankle really is bad. Jones injury is a terrific blow to Mr. Ted Robbins, secretary of the Football Association of Wales, who may include Bob Davies, of Nottingham Forest and to find a new captain.
Everton F.C. Half-Back Dies Of Wounds
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 26 April 1944
Everton Football Club have received word that Brian Atkins, their 22-year old half-back, has died of wounds. Atkins lived at 19, Hougoumontavenue, Waterloo, and was regarded by Everton as one of their most promising juniors, being reminiscent of Albert Virr, a member of the 1927 championship team. Atkins was in the R.A.F. Regiment. Two of his team-mates, Jack Lyon and Billy Reed, are prisoners of war.
Coventry Evening Telegraph - Thursday 27 April 1944
A/C Brian Atkins. 22 years old left half-back of Everton F.C., has died of wounds. Atkins, who lived at Waterloo, Liverpool, was in the R.A.F.
April 27, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Everton will introduce to the Football League two more young discoveries when they visit Gigg-lane to oppose Bury on Saturday. They are Doyle, a Garston lad and Fred Jones another of the boys the Blues have brought from Haydock. The Blues are seizing the opportunity of giving promising juniors a chance of gaining a little experience which should stand them in good stead in the days to come. Doyle has been playing excellently with the Reserves both at left back and left half, and comes into the team at left-half for Watson. Fred Jones comes from the C and B Social Club, Haydock, from whom Everton secured such grand youngsters as Matt McDonnell, Billy Lowe, Wilf Birkett, Morley and the 15-year-old Melling. The injury to Tommy Jones enforces a centre-half change, and Jackie Jones, the international back, takes over the task, while Bentham will be at right-half for Grant who moves to inside-right. Wyles continues to lead the forwards, and Wainwright will be at inside-left, while George Jackson returns to right back. Everton juniors face a representative side of the Bebington League at Goodison Park at three o'clock, and field a team with an average age of under 16, including France, a nephew of Stan Cullis. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (Jack), Doyle, Jones (Fred), Grant, Wyles, Wainwright, McIntosh.
Everton colts; J.A. Jones; Lamb, Lever; Eastaway, Rees, Melling; France, Taylor, Chadderton, Williamson, Trowsdale.
Everton Player Dead
One of Everton F.C.'s most promising half-back Brian Atkins (22), R.A.F, Regt, has died of wounds. He resided at 19, Hougoumont Avenue, Waterloo.
April 27, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
With nothing vital at stake in their match against Bury, at Bury, Everton are taking the opportunity of trying out two of their most promising "A" team players. These are R.L. Doyle, a 17-year-old Garston boy and Fred Jones, a 20 year-old Haydock C and B product. This is the side from which Everton got Lowe, Birkett, and McDonald. If Jones measures up to their standard he'll fit the bill all right. Jack Jones deputises for his namesake, T.G. Jones. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (Jack), Doyle, Jones (Fred), Grant, Wyles, Wainwright, McIntosh.
Everton Colts have a good attraction at Goodison Park on Saturday (3 p.m.) when they meet a representative Bebington League side. The Colts side, average 16 is:- J.A. Jones; Lamb, Lever; Eastaway, Rees, Melling; France, Taylor, Chadderton, Williamson, Trowsdale.
April 28, 1944. The Evening Express
Pilot's Log
Everton strike new ground for the season in going to Gigg lane to oppose Bury with League points as the "prize". The Blues take this opportunity of trying out two of their junior players who joining the club this season, have been making steady progress in the Reserves. They are Doyle, a left-half, and Fred Jones, an outside-right from Haydock B and C social. The experience will be made of playing Jack Jones at centre half for the injured Tommy Jones, while Wyles, who did exceptionally well last week, again deputises for Tommy Lawton, who will be leading the F.A. at Stamford Bridge against the Combined Services. Wainwright returns to inside-left. Grant will be at outside-right with Bentham at right-half and Jackson at right-back. Bury too will field several of their discoveries in a game which Everton, if they introduce the necessary forward "punch" should win. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (Jack), Doyle; F. Jones, Grant, Wyles, Wainwright, McIntosh.
April 28, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
Ranger's Notes
Everton, away to Bury in a match which has no vital bearing, are making it the medium of a trial run for two of their "A" teamers in Jones and Doyle, outside right and left half respectively. Wyles deputises for Lawton, on duty, at Stamford Bridge, and Jack Jones for Tommy Jones, whose ankle injury will keep him out of the game for the rest of the season. Though this is not a strong side, Everton should be good for a draw at least. Everton; Burnett; Jackson, Greenhalgh; Bentham, Jones (Jack), Doyle; F. Jones, Grant, Wyles, Wainwright, McIntosh.
April 29, 1944. The Liverpool Echo
By Stork.
Bury; J. Smith, goal; Griffths (G.) and Hart, backs; Horsfield, Griffths (W.) and Hamilton, half-backs; White, Potts, Meaney, Anderson, and Carter, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Bentham, Jones (J.E.) and R.L. Doyle, half-backs; F. Jones, Grant, Wyles, Wainwright, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. Dykes, (Failsworth). Everton decided to gave two of their "A" team boys a run at Bury today, R.L. Doyle and Frank Jones. The small crowd saw Bury go into the attack almost immediately. W. Griffiths was responsible for one good shot which Burnett saved. McIntosh made one of his clever runs before he finally offered the ball to three Everton men standing at the right of the Bury goal, but not one could accept the offer. One interfered with the other so that a really good chance went begging. F. Jones showed clever touches and one centre he put into the keepers' hands. He offered Grant an opportunity, too, but the inside right shot badly. When Meaney got through the Everton defence he gave Carter a beautiful ball, and a goal seemed sure. But Carter usually deadly from such a position rushed in and crashed the ball straight at Burnett, who was thus able to save. There were not many goal incidents and most of the play was in midfield. Bury put their faith in Carter, and he made some nice centres, but the next best shot of the Shakers came from Horsfield, Burnett dropping in the goal line to save. Everton forwards were inclined to get bunched up, although Bentham put through some nice passes which should have produced something better despite the solid wall of the Bury defenders. After Burnett had saved a shot by Carter with his face and F. Jones, the Everton right winger had hit the Bury post. Potts got through and shooting through a ruck of players scored at 39 minutes. Burnett had to save from Carter, who later shot over the bar.
Half-time; Bury 1, Everton 0.
Wainwright in the first minute of the second half grazed the top side of the crossbar with a header and McIntosh from close in should have scored instead of shooting over the bar. Everton's shooting was anything but good. Wyles missed a possible, and McIntosh had a shot cannoned out by his colleague Wyles. Cater sent in a fast rising shot, which Burnett dealt with ably. McIntosh did net the ball for Everton, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Bury goal almost fell through a misunderstanding by a full back who with a back pass, placed the ball on the wrong side of his goalkeeper, who had to make a frantic dive to avert disaster. Everton were making a last minute effort to pull the game out of the fire, but Wyles shot straight at Smith, who really should not have had a chance to save. Final; Bury 1, Everton 0.
April 29, 1944. The Evening Express
Both Everton and Bury included two amateurs for the match at Gigg lane this afternoon. Bury; J. Smith, goal; Griffths (G.) and Hart, backs; Horsfield, Griffths (W.) and Hamilton, half-backs; White, Potts, Meaney, Anderson, and Carter, forwards. Everton; Burnett, goal; Jackson and Greenhalgh, backs; Bentham, Jones (J.E.) and R.L. Doyle, half-backs; F. Jones, Grant, Wyles, Wainwright, and McIntosh (Preston), forwards. Referee; Mr. Dykes, (Failsworth). Bury made the early running but the Everton goal was never in danger although Burnett saved smartly when Griffths (W.) drove in hard from a free kick. F. Jones was soon in the picture and Smith did well to collect and clear his centre. In the next minute the Bury goalkeeper again had to catch a centre from Jones. Bury were the more dangerous in attack, and a beautifully schemed left wing movement gave Carter a scoring chance. The outside left took the ball close in, but drove it against Burnett's legs and the ball rebounded for a corner.
Defence Hard Pressed.
For some minutes the Everton defenders were hard pressed, and there was an exciting moment when Burnett, after racing out to check Meaney, tried to dribble round the centre-forward and lost possession. Greenhalgh however, recovered to clear. The Blues at length developed more power in attack, and following a wing-to-wing movement Grant shot wide from an easy position. Back went Bury, and Greenhalgh cleared an awkward situation. Carter had another scoring chance, but the Bury outside left lifted his shot inches over the cross-bar. Carter was Bury's danger man, but he could not finish effectively, and when again sent past Jackson weakly centred into the waiting hands of Burnett. McIntosh pleased the crowd with two lengthy runs on the left, but the Everton inside forwards were held fast by the steady defence.
Bury Take Lead.
Horsfield brought Burnett to a splendid full-length save, and the goalkeeper had to deal with another drive from a half-back. Smith, in the Bury goal, had little to do with McIntosh worked his way over to the other wing, the goalkeeper challenged at the last moment to concede a corner. From Jones's pass Wyles headed over from in front of goal. The home goal was lucky to escape in a right wing attack which enabled Jones to get clean through. When the goalkeeper came out, the outside right sent the ball against the upright, the rebound being cleared. Six minutes from the interval Bury went ahead, Potts, the amateur inside right, netting after a left-wing attack.
Half-time; Bury 1, Everton 0
Bury at once went to the attack on the resumption, but their forwards could make little impression, although Burnett had to race out to clear from Meaney. Everton now began for the first time to develop a real liveliness in attack. Bury were lucky when Jones got across a centre from which Wainwright headed against the crossbar. A minute later McIntosh, with all the goal to shoot at, lifted the ball over the bar. Final; Bury 1, Everton 0.
April 1944