Sefton RUFC Liverpool

NEWSPAPER CUTTINGS 1923-25


SEFTON'S ERROR AT SOUTHPORT.
An interesting and amusing feature of the match at Victoria Park, Birkdale, between Southport and Sefton was the fact that the visitors played sixteen men throughout the first half. It appears that on their arrival Sefton thought they were a man short, and a Southport second team player consented to a request to assist them. The fact that they were actually at full strength was not definitely discovered until the interval, when the Southport man withdrew.
Once more the ground was in a bad condition, and the exchanges developed into a forward game. In the first half the defences on either side prevailed, but in the second half Noon obtained a try which he converted, and Kendall twice got over, but was only successful in one instance in improving upon his effort. The home full back, Cockill, had little or nothing to do, the three-quarters handled well and as far possible conquered the conditions, but speedy movement was greatly handicapped by the mud.
The forwards played hard, but packed very loosely; there were too many wing forwards. The Sefton wing three-quarters ran well but were effectively held. The forwards gained advantages through the defects of the home pack in generalship.
Result: Southport 13 points, Sefton 0.


WARRINGTON 'A' 24 Pts., SEFTON 'A' 12Pts.
In this game at Meadow-lane, West Derby, both sides were weakly represented and each played several men short. An interesting and keen game was seen, with Warrington holding the upper hand and winning by 3 goals 3 tries to 4 tries. Some good tackling was done by Sefton and Warrington swung the ball about freely and found this the best policy. The visitors in the first half scored a goal and two tries by Bennett and Lee to two tries for Sefton by Bacon and Lee. Bagot, who showed promise, scored a line try in the second half for Sefton, Lee being the other scorer. Against this, however, Warrington scored two further goals and a try, among the scorers being Allen and Worsley (2).


OLD BIRKONIANS WIN AT SEFTON.
A good game was witnessed at West Derby, where the Old Birkonians defeated the home team by 3 goals and a try to 2 penalty goals. Sefton played fourteen men up to the interval, holding the advantage in loose forward play, though the visitors' three-quarters were superior. Harding and Roddick were prominent in the back division, and gave the visitors plenty of chances.
Howard's try, which Lewis converted, for the Old Birkonians, was the only score in an even first half, Sefton being unlucky to be in arrears. After the interval Brabner (2) and Baker made the issue safe with fine tries, two of which Lewis converted. A final rally by Sefton led to Hutchings kicking two well-judged penalty goals in quick succession. The leeway, however, proved too much to alter the result of an interesting game.
Result: Old Birkonians 18 pts., Selton 6 pts.
Old Birkonians II. 6 Pts., Sefton II. 3 Pts.
Sefton III. 26 Pts., Old Birkonians III. 17 Pts.


Castletown. v. Sefton.
Liverpool Club on Tour.
The Sefton(Liverpool) touring team, who were defeated be Mona yesterday, visited Castletown today to oppose the new club, and as the Association team had cancelled their match with St. Georges, the home side was strengthened by the inclusion of Preston at full-back. The match attracted considerable interest in the Southside, and there was quite a decent turn-up to witness this exhibition of the handling code by an English side. In the first half, Murphy and Henchy scored tries for Castletown, and Henchy improved one of the tries, Castletown leading by eight points at the interval. Murphey scored three more tries in the second half, Allen improved one of them. The game was fast and open, and was greatly enjoyed by the spectators, Castletown playing fine football. Result
Castletown, 2 goals, 3 tries, (19 pts.).
Sefton: Nil.


Praise for Sefton Secretary.
One rather interesting result of the inquiries I have recently made concerning the early history of some of the junior clubs has been the revelation that in several cases, thanks to the intervention of war and numerous changes of officials, there is no accurate record of the early history of the clubs. Present secretaries are doing their best to piece the stories together, and it is to be hoped that they will succeed, for it is good to look back into the years and review the struggles of early days and honour the names of those who planted the seeds of success. The Sefton Club, which earned an unbooked-for place in the limelight last week by playing sixteen men against Southport for half a game, is fortunate in assessing in its secretary, Mr. F. J. Applebee, a glutton for work and detail. His written record includes teams which appeared in every game played by the club since its foundation as The Aliens in 1907, every point scored and its scorer, and cuttings of all references to the club and its games. Mr. Applebee was one of the founders of the club, and has been its only secretary, a record of service only exceeded in Lancashire by Mr. W. Parlance, of the Manchester Club.
In its early years The Aliens was a school-masters club, and during that period Mr. J. G. Legge was its president. Starting with matches against third fifteens of the senior clubs, rapid progress was made, and when 1914 arrived first team fixtures had been secured with Birkenhead Park, New Brighton, Heaton Moor, Furness, Vale of Lune, Liverpool University, and Eccles, a strong side which was not revived after the war. Every player who could pass the doctor served in the forces, the majority from the early months, and many went under. There is something tragic about the fate of the men who played fullback for the club between 1907-1914. They numbered eight in all. Six were killed, one died of wounds, and the eighth returned so broken in health that he has since gone under. Six of the eight were members of the scholastic profession.


SEFTON'S EASY WIN.
Sefton won comfortably at West Derby, though the score hardly does justice to the Widnes team, whose forward work was worthy of better results than were attained. Elsewhere, Sefton held a decided superiority, but in the packs Widnes displayed a slight advantage, and were unfortunate on occasions by letting slip opportunities owing to the lack of support from their back division. The try by Ankers was an excellent affair of trickery. He 'sold the dummy' to a nicety and touched down in a very good position. The Sefton backs rendered a good account of themselves and displayed plenty of dash, best among the home side being Hutchings, Foggo, Nelson, and the wing three-quarters.
Result: Sefton 17 points, Widnes Old Boys 5 points.


A Ground Fund.
Eight players reported fit in 1919, and a fresh start was made. The old name no longer seemed suitable, and the present name 'Sefton' was adopted. First team results have not been very thrilling, there having been a sad lack of weight and height, but there are now signs that these defects will shortly be remedied, and with a playing membership of about 120, and a general level of ability through the five teams which the club now puts regularly in the field, the outlook is bright. N. W. Hutchings, the captain of the side, has been missing most of the season for business reasons, and his absence has been badly felt. Of the present side, Arrowsmith, in the centre, and Sorenson forward, are the most promising. Foggo, the stand-off half, is a splendid kick with very good hands, who only needs resolution to make him a very fine plover.
The club is in a sound financial position, and with the knowledge that the need for a permanent ground is the greatest of the present handicaps, a start has been made with a ground fund, to which, thanks to the energies of the treasurer, Mr. J. Milbourn, and the president, Mr W. J. Smith, the old Bristol and Gloucestershire forward, substantial contributions have already been made. A club dance held at the Embassy Rooms on Tuesday last, at which over 300 members and friends were present, should result in a further addition to the fund.
Old players of the club still take a very active part in club legislation. R. A. O'Donnell, the Lancashire forward, is very keenly interested in the St. Edward's Club; F. P. Arthur, a founder and secretary of Hoylake, still plays, and F.Outhwaite, who was reserve for the Lancashire scrum in 1921, was chosen for the Western Province SA.trials last year, but stood down to give younger men a chance. With an enthusi-astic body of young players, and the steadying influence of an imposing group of vice-presidents, not the least honoured of whom is Mr. R.K. Mackenzie, the founder of the Watsonians, there are signs of an advance in the near future.


BIDSTON 8., SEFTON 3 Pts.
A close game resulted in a win for the visitors by 8 points to 3. A sodden ground and greasy ball impeded movements of promising character. Bidston gained ground more frequently, but were well held by Sefton's defence. During one of their raids Duggan, of Bidston, sustained an injury to the eye. From a penalty kick Hughes opened Bidston's score. The second half saw Hutchings equalise with a penalty kick. Bidston forwards rushed the ball over and Taylor converted the try.


HOYLAKE 8 Pts., SEFTON 5 Pts.
Hoylake, in a scrappy game at West Derby, beat Sefton by 1 goal and 1 try to 1 goal. Sefton only had themselves to blame for the defeat, their three-quarters lacking combination, and relying too much on solo efforts. Sefton played with great dash at the start, and Hoylake were well held. Hoylake were the more dangerous side when attacking, and Pedder just beat Prentice in a scramble for possession, the goal kick, from an easy position, failing. Most of Sefton's best work came from the left wing, and only resolute tackling and good packing kept the home side from opening their score.
In the second half, following several raids, Todd put his side further ahead, and from an awkward angle Stephenson kicked a good goal. Sefton attacked, and close dribbling by the forwards enabled Bulmer to open their scoring. Foggo kicked a goal.


PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS 3 Pts., SEFTON 3 Pts.
Owing to the Grasshoppers' ground at Farringdon Park being water-logged, this fixture was transferred to the Leyland Motors' ground. After twelve minutes play the Grasshoppers took the lead, Leigh running over after a good dribble by Cottani. Pollard failed with the kick. Sefton subsequently had the best of the play, and just before the interval Jones made a brilliant run but was successfully tackled near the line by Burton. Ten minutes after the resumption Fowge equalised for Sefton from a penalty. Sefton had rather the best of some gruelling exchanges, but neither side could gain the verdict.


PORT SUNLIGHT 17 Pts., SEFTON 4 Pts.
Sefton put up a very good fight at Bebington, but Port Sunlight were the better team. After scoring in the first few minutes through V. Smith, the home side fell away, but later took the upper hand.
Redhead was fortunate in his drop at goal, the ball grazing the bar; and, though gaining the lead, Sefton were soon dis-possessed by a brilliant penalty goal from Hagman, the home side at the interval leading by 6 points to 4.
The second half saw Port Sunlight play a great attacking game, and Corkhill, Nicholson, and Hallam crossed the Sefton line, Hagman converting one of the tries. Port Sunlight's defence towards the end was sorely taxed, but Davies fielded brilliantly and was never at fault all through the game.


SEFTON'S NARROW DEFEAT.
A hard and keen game between two well-matched sides at Meadow-lane, West Derby, ended in favour of Preston Grasshoppers, who beat Sefton by the narrow margin of one try to nil. The heavy ground and wind upset both teams, and it was not until late in the second half that Preston gained the advantage, Barton scoring an unconverted try after a combined forward movement. Sefton had a splendid chance of scoring after this, but though they came near their movements lacked finish. In the first half play was very even, the display of Wiseman, at left wing three-quarter, for Preston being a feature. Sefton forwards played well, but the three-quarters were disjointed and relied too much on individual efforts. The visitors' backs were more dangerous, and only good tackling kept them out on several occasions.
Result: Preston Grasshoppers 3 Pts.; Sefton nil.


BIDSTON v. SEFTON.
SEFTON WIN BY A GOAL
KICK.
(By 'Kruschen.')
On a September afternoon, in the season of 1920. several old local Rugbeians with a team of young players, invaded West Derby. The young players were the Bidston Club, who on the afternoon in question were playing their initial game of Rugby, and their opponents were a club of pre-war formation - the Sefton Rugby Club. Well, the game was played, and in the end the Bidstonians were defeated by the small margin of three points. The young-sters, were delighted with their showing, and the 'old heads' were all agreed that they had collected the right material and that in due season their efforts would bear fruit. And in this they were not out in their estimate, for near the end of the same season the Bidstonians appeared at West Derby to play the Seftonians once again. On this occasion a different result w as forthcoming, for the Bidston lads had made such progress that they beat their opponents somewhat easily. So well did they play that the then Sefton secretary (Fred Applebee) met the writer of this article when leaving the field, and after a shower of com-pliments then and there offered the Bidstonians first team fixtures for the following season. I have pleasure in recording this sporting offer of Fred's, as it only goes to show how much he had the Rugby game at heart and how anxious he was to give a helping hand to a new club. Well, since that eventful Saturday afternoon the teams concerned have met each other every season, and the games played have always been of the finest, both from the play-ing and sporting aspect. It was thus no sur-prise to me when I entered the Upper Park on Saturday afternoon last to find a large muster of spectators and two teams again ready to carry on the traditions of the two clubs in the same sporting spirit, as on all previous occasions. To me, it was a real pleasure to be present, and my mind went back to that memorable Saturday afternoon when, in conjunction with several other old 'Rugger' men, we introduced the clubs to each other. Although these games were only started in September, 1920, it is a surprising fact that not one of the players who represented Bidston on Saturday last took part in the initial match between these two teams. With but two exceptions the same holds good as regards the Seftonians. This only goes to show how very soon the personnel of a team changes in a junior organisation. The players that lined up on Saturday were
Bidston. F. Donaldson; W. Shipley, N. Hughes (capt..). W. Baines and G. Warburton; H. D. Porter and W. James: N. Blackburn. F. B. Walker. T. Ryalls, A. L. Taylor, E. V. Moore. J. W. Fearon, J. T, Williams , and C Morland.
Sefton. J. Cornforth; G. E. Nelson, A, J. Foggo, J. Munce, and J. Finnigan; N. W. Hutchings and C. Redhead; C. H. McKenzie, L. Sovenson, J. Davies, J. M. Hughes. G. J. Bulmer, H. Balmer, F. A. Chadwick, and C. H. S. Basnett.
Referee: Mr. W. Coghill (Old Hamiltonian.)


Bidston started a game of two thirty-fives and play was confined to midfield at the start, both sets of forwards putting plenty of dash into it. Then Sefton took a hand in pressing, but Porter drove them back twice in succession with profitable touch-finding. But Sefton returned to the attack and only smart work by Hughes held up Nelson on the line. Then Bidston came away with a great forward rush, but Cornforth gathered beautifully and sent the ball well up the field and also found touch. From the ensuing line-out Alec Taylor came away for Bidston with a splendid dribble, but he was not backed up, and Balmer gathered the ball and landed to touch, right on the Bidston line. Here Sefton missed a great scoring chance by reason of a knock-on. Porter brought relief by a strong run, but Hughes missed his pass and there was a series of scrummages at the centre. The Bidston backs got moving again, and a drop at goal by Hughes hit the upright and a dead ball resulted. From the drop-out, Sefton got away well, but Porter regained the ground by a fine touch-finder. Shipley made a great effort for Bidston, but was eventually bundled into touch. Sefton's forwards then went away in a body, and Donaldson, at full-back, made a great save for Bidston, after which Hughes kicked splendidly to touch in the Sefton twenty-five. Following some loose play, Hughes picked up and went away with a strong run; drawing the Sefton defence he sent over a fine pass to Warburton, who knocked-on, and thus spoilt an almost certain score. Half -time arrived with tie score, and, taken generally, Bidiston, by virtue of being more frequently in posses-sion, could be said to have had most of the game and ought to have had something on the score sheet. Sefton's defence, however, had been good, and on all occasions they prevented anything in the nature of a score.
The game was restarted by Sefton and their opening play was good. Foggo got away for them with a good run and a neat kick to touch, then following several hard scrums in the Bidston twenty-five, smart exchanges between Hutchings and MUNCE ended in the latter scoring a beautiful try right under the bar; Foggo took the kick and landed a neat goal, thus giving Sefton a clear five-point lead. Re-starting, forward play was the order, and several storming scrums ensued near the centre line; for an infringement Sefton were penalised and Hughes almost landed the goal. Then, from the drop-out, Nelson got away on the Sefton wing and was hauled down near the line; here several exciting scrums took place, Sefton appearing to be going stronger than formerly, and having a lot of the game. Hughes, the Bidston skipper, hereabouts parted with an important part of his wardrobe and was smuggled away to the backwoods for the purpose of an exchange. In the meantime Porter had driven off a Sefton rush with a beautiful touch-finder, only to find the Seftonians back again in the next minute. The Bidston skipper now returned, after extensive repairs, and almost immediately got away with a strong run, then when near the line he handed on to Shipley, who took the ball beautifully, but could not get through, being held up just outside. Sefton got relief through Hutchings, but in the effort he had the misfortune to twist a knee and was carried off the field. A man short, Sefton were hard pressed, for Bidston were now all out, and on the Sefton lines; a few minutes before the close a miss-kick by the Sefton back put the ball into the hands of SHIPLEY; he dashed away in great style and scored for Bidston, far out. The kick, a difficult one, was taken by Hughes; he made a valiant attempt to save the game for his side, and although his kick had good length and direction, a strong wind took it across the upright and landed it just outside. Almost immediately the whistle blew for the termination of the game, with the score sheet showing as follows:- Sefton 1 goal (5 points), Bidston 1 try (3 points).


BIRKENHEAD PARK II. 17 Pts., SEFTON 3 Pts.
The interest in the meeting of these teams at Birkenhead was increased by the reappearance of R. Robinson, the old North half-back, who turned out after an absence of several months. Robinson stood the strain of an injured knee extremely well, and it is probable that he will be included in the Park senior team at an early date. Park II. were usually the stronger side. Sefton made some strong attacks, one of which ended in a score. Park, however, were well served by Robin-son. Ludlow, and Kelly, who made tries. Kelly also dropped a goal, and in the end Park won by 1 goal, 1 dropped goal and 3 tries to 1 try.


SEFTON DEFEATED AT ST.HELENS
Playing one man less in the scrimmages contributed considerably to the downfall of playing one man less in the scrimmages Sefton at St. Helens on Saturday. With the extra weight the Old Boys gained pos-session for the majority of the game, with the result that their rear division was con-stantly an attacking force. The entire failure of the visitors' defence to withstand these repeated attacks in the first half is emphasised by the scoring. 21 of the 27 points being recorded during the first period.
The second half was of a more even nature, though slightly in favour of the Old Boys. Arrowsmith made a magnificent run for Sefton which terminated in him registering the only score for the visitors. The home backs played well together and gave a good all-round display. The scoring came from Davies (2), Lyon (2), Horrocks, Puston, and Winstanley, whilst the latter scored two goals and Lyon one goal.
Result. St. Helens Old Boys 27 points. Sefton 3 points.


SEFTON 3 Pts., LIVERPOOL II. nil.
In beating Liverpool II. by the only try scored, Sefton showed a better control in bad conditions than did their opponents.
Woods scored the deciding try, catching the defenders at a disadvantage and running across, with little opposition. On several occasions Sefton looked like improving their score, but the difficulty in handling an elusive ball prevented them finishing off some good advances. On the other hand, Liverpool rarely looked dangerous, but Ashcroft, at full back, played a capital defence. Sefton were best at half back, where Foggo especially did well under the circumstances. In the forward ranks there was little to choose between the sides, though Liverpool at times showed the better footwork.


SEFTON BEATEN.
A good game at Meadow-lane, West Derby, resulted in a win for St. Helens Old Boys by four tries to a dropped goal and a penalty goal. Sefton played two men short which caused some disorganisation, but the visitors, apart from this advantage, were slightly the superior side. Bridge opened the scoring for the visitors after a combined movement by the three-quarters, an easy kick at goal failed. Jennion scored try after a fine run. Foggo kicked a penalty-goal early on in the second half and also dropped a fine goal for Sefton. St Helens added two further tries through Davies and Foggo. Sefton put up a good fight in the early stages, but the visitors three-quarters showed more combination, while both packs were well matched.
Result: St. Helens Old Boys 12 Pts., Sefton 7 Pts.


SOUTHPORT WIN AT SEFTON.
Southport, a very much improved team, and, like their opponents, fielding a changed side, Easily beat Sefton at Sefton by 32 pts. to nil. The game was very one-sided, and the margin was not a fair reflex of the play, for Southport overwhelmed the Liverpool side and should have won by a greater number of points. Had it not been for the fine defensive work of Hemingway, Sefton's defeat would have been more pronounced.
Only on half a dozen occasions Sefton were allowed in the Southport half in the first half, but on those few occasions they never looked likely scorers, Southport were superior in all positions, their three-quarters, Noon, R. Gore, and Biggs being much too quick for the home lot, and their forwards pushed much better than Sefton. Although the game was so one-sided, it had its interesting parts, chief of which was the combination of the Southport left wing, from which most of the tries came. Tries were scored by T. Gore (2), Kendall (5), Wilson (1), and converted by T. Gore (2) and Warrington (2).
Result : Southport 32 pts., Sefton nil.


SEFTON LOSE AT OXTON.
The Old Birkonians, in their match at Oxton with Sefton, were short of several first team players, including Brabner, who was playing for Cheshire against Durham in the County Championship match. In the circumstances a score of 1 goal 5 tries to nothing was quite a good result. The for-wards were very evenly matched, but in loose play the Old Boys were better and used their feet to advantage. Playing against the wind, Sefton, in the first half, dropped 8 points. Baker and Harding scored tries for the Old Boys, and Lewis converted the former's try. Sefton, although operating with the wind and rain, weakened considerably in the later stages of the play. McNeill (Oxford) ran in a try for the home team, and Woodhouse, Hard-ing, and G. H. Smith got over the Sefton line to score well-earned tries. Result:
Old Birkonians 20 pts., Sefton 0.
Old Birkonians II. 11 pts., Sefton II. 8 pts.
Old Birkonians III 6 pts., Sefton III. 0.


SEFTON LOSE AT WARRINGT0N.
There was a surprise result to the visit of Sefton to Warrington yesterday. Sefton found themselves unable to withstand the vigorous tactics of the home men, and were defeated by 17 points to nil. Occasionally, owing to the weakness of the Sefton defence, Warrington were presented with openings of which they took advantage. The visitors' forwards played a splendid game, their footwork being strong, and they gained a fair amount of possession from the scrimmage. A dribble by the Warrington forwards was followed by a breakaway by Connor and after short passing Gibbs scored a try in the corner. Carruthers added a second, while Connor put Warrington further ahead. In the second half Connor again scored, and Creighton finished up the scoring with a try, which Healey improved. Connor put Warrington further ahead.
Result: Warrington 17 pts.. Sefton nil.


BIRKENHEAD PARK II. 17 Pts., SEFTON 0.
The Upper Park being vacant in consequence of there being no first team fixture, the 'seconds' match with Sefton was transferred to Birkenhead. At the outset play was even, but the home team became more aggressive, and before half-time Kelly, Moss, and Edington scored tries, and Kelly also converted one try. Sefton improved after the resumption, and, although the Park were the more dangerous side, the visitors' defence was active. In some good passing bouts Kelly and Shaw got further tries for the Park.
Park III. and Sefton II. met on the former's ground, and a one-sided game favoured the 'thirds' by 29 points to nothing. Hanson (5), Dunn, Pullin, Godfrey, and Ross made tries and Dutton was successful with one place-kick.


SEFTON'S SUCCESS. (17/11/1925)
A hard game at Meadow-lane, West Derby, resulted in a win for Sefton by a goal and 2 tries to nil. Good forward work won the match for Sefton, the home halves linking up well and giving the three-quarters plenty of chances. Forward, pass-ing, however, spoilt many promising move-ments. Neither side claimed much advantage until, following a movement on the right, Sorenson opened Sefton's score. Foggo failed to goal from an awkward angle. This was the only score before the interval.
Wood made a fine run after the resump-tion, and in some loose play Sorenson scored his second try, which was unconverted. Owing to Hutchings being unable to play Damsell was brought into the three-quarter line, and was successful, in scoring Sefton's third try. Foggo on this occasion kicking a good goal. Ackroyd and his partner, at half, got the ball well out of the scrum, but Sefton's pack broke up quickly and, com-bined with good tackling, kept the home line unbroken.
Result: Sefton 11 pts., Cammell Lairds 0.
St. Edward's 14 Pts., Sefton II. 0.
Sefton III. 49 points, St. Edward's II. 0.


SEFTON LOSE AT PRESTWICH.
Sefton, at Prestwich, were beaten by a penalty goal and a try to nothing in a keenly contested game on a wet and greasy ground. The forwards were evenly matched but Prestwich's superiority behind was marked. Prestwich opened their score through Harrison with a Penalty kick and Arnold almost crossed the line after a good run.
The visitors' backs then set their forwards going and Hughes was prominent in several good dribbles, Harrison, the home full back, checking all the dangerous attacks. Webley, at full back, played very soundly for the visitors and Nelson, at three-quarter, was very prominent on several occasions. After the change of ends Sefton fell off and Prestwich showed marked superiority. Their combination was excel lent, and but for the visitors' three-quarter line a much heavier score would have been recorded.
Moorson, Horsley and Arnold, of the home fqrwards, were prominent, and some good runs were effectively checked near the visitors' line. Prestwich showed great determination and forced several scrums and after some nice passing Pendlebury picked on in the loose and scored an unconverted try just before the close.
Result: Prestwich 6 points, Sefton nil.


OLD SALFORDIAN'S 16pts. SEFTON nil,
The visit of the Sefton team to Manchester where they met the Old Salfordians, prevented the visitors fielding their best side, and in the end they were defeated by 2 goals, 1 penalty goal, and 1 try to nil.
Hutchings played a hard game for the visitors, and on one occasion he missed dropping a goal by the merest margin. Salford gained three tries, mainly by forward rushes, the outstanding effort of play being seen when Love made the opening score. Webley played well at full back for the visitors, his defence staving off several rushes, and Forsyth was prominent among the forwards.


SEFTON'S SUCCESS.
By reason of their polished back play, Sefton won a hard and evenly fought game by 6 points to 3, the two tries by Damsell remaining unconverted. For a greater part of the game the forwards monopolised play, and here Sefton showed great understanding. The Prestwich forwards were not less clever, but their three-quarter line failed them on two occasions when inviting openings occurred. The Prestwich backs were reliable in defence, but in following up they were outplayed by the home defence, who were keen to make good use of every opportunity.
Result : Sefton 6 points, Prestwich 3 points.


SEFTON II. 5 Pts., PRESTWICH II. 0.
The Sefton second team pack at Prestwich were much stronger than their opponents, and were responsible for a useful victory. Francis scored for the visitors before half-time, and from near the touchline Bacon kicked a great goal. Prestwich tried hard to get on terms, but a good defence prevailed.


LIVERPOOL II. V. SEFTON II.
At Riversdale-road. Nelson immediately broke through, and was pulled down on the Liverpool line. Scotson from a scrum picked up and scored with a fine try, Foggo missing with the kick. After this the game became very fast, Maybury being brought down by Damsell when appearing dangerous. A few minutes after Wynn Evans got a fine try and equalised matters. Taylor missed with the kick. Finegan and Munce, in a fine passing bout, ran through, when the whistle sounded.
Halftime.----Liverpool 3 points, Sefton 3 points.
On resuming a stiff battle took place without either side scoring.
Final. Liverpool II. 3 points, Sefton II. 3 points.


OLD SALFORDIANS 26 Pts., SEFTON II. Nil.
Sefton II. at home, were easily beaten by Old Salfordians by 26 points to nil. The visitors monopolised play throughout the game, Georgeson. Howarth (2), McKay, Laithwaite and Robertson getting tries. Howarth dropped a goal, Laithwaite a penalty goal and Black converted a try. It was a good hard game but Sefton failed through hanging on to the ball too long. The Old Salfordian three-quarters combined well, and Peel, at scrum-half, did par-ticularly well.


SEFTON 5 Pts., BIDSTON 3 Pts.
Playing a hard game at Birkenhead, the Sefton Club defeated Bidston by a successful shot at goal. The teams were well matched but in the early stages Finnegan got a good try for the visitors. The point was improved and although Bidston made many attempts to get on terms Sefton tackled well, and it was nearing the end before Bidston indulged in passing which gave Shipley a try. Both sets of forwards maintained a good pace, and in the end Sefton won by a goal to a try.
Sefton II. 7 pts.. Bidston II. 6 pts. Bidston III. 3 pts., Sefton 3 pts.
Sefton Extra 25 pts., Bidston Extra nil.
Sefton 3B pts., Hightown 8 pts.


Liverpool II. 3 Pts., SEFTON II. 3 Pts.
A fast game was seen at Riversdale-road in spite of wretched conditions, and a draw of a try each fairly represents the run of the play. Taylor and Maybury led several dangerous attacks for Liverpool but were held up by an excellent defence. From a scrum Scotson secured and dashed over the Liverpool line for a try, which Foggo failed to convert. The try was scored equalising by Wynn-Evans, who eluded all the opposition. In the second half both sides played well, but the defences prevailed.


LIVERPOOL III. V. SEFTON III.
Shooter scored Liverpool's first try, which was unconverted. A fast game ensued, Cottier, Smith, and Massiter being prominent in fine work for the Sefton pack. Kay, from scrum, ran through and scored for Sefton, Marsden failing with the kick at goal. The game continued fast.
Half-time. Liverpool III. 6 pts., Sefton III. 3 points.


BIRKENHEAD PARK II. 26 Pts., SEFTON 3 Pts.
The Sefton team, at Birkenhead, were inferior to the Park II., who kept up some consistent scoring, and in the end were victors by 1 goal, 7 tries to 1 try. In the first half the visitors defended well and also maintained some strong forward play, but the pace of the Park backs, particularly Merson, accounted for a total of 9 points. Sefton weakened considerably in the later stages, and at the end were badly beaten. Jefferson (3), Godfrey (3), Harrison, and Moss scored tries for Park, and Shaw negotiated one successful place kick.


SEFTON'S HOME DEFEAT.
At Meadow-lane, West Derby, Wigan Old Boys won a hard game by 2 goals 2 tries (16 pts.) to 1 penalty goal (3 pts.) The game was interesting, but was spoiled by constant stoppages for free kicks. The visitors were a man short, and played seven forwards, but their bustling tactics and clever passing proved too much for Sefton.
The first try was scored in the early stages, Hutchings's kick being charged down by Ross, who ran over to score be-tween the posts, Titherington converting. The same player scored a second try, which was also unconverted. Webley reduced the lead with a penalty goal from an away position. Immediately following this, the Wigan forwards went away again, and Martland crossed the line far out for an unconverted try. Some good opportunities were lost by Sefton after the resumption, Hutchings having a number of attempts to land goals, but without success. Owen ran over the Sefton line, but was pulled up for some infringement. Walkden later scored between the posts for Titherington to convert.
Result. - Wigan Old Boys 16 pts., Sefton 3 pts.


BIDSTON 8 Pts., SEFTON 0.
The hard turf at Bidston curtailed the usual robust play in their meetings with local clubs, but in the end the home team fully deserved their victory by 1 goal and 1 try to nil. The first score accrued in the opening half when Evans slipped through the Sefton defence and made a try, which Price converted. After the interval Sefton put in several line rushes, and at times the Bidston backs were hard pressed to stave off defeat until Price gained a try and settled the issue.
Bidston II. and Sefton II. tried conclusions and after a somewhat one-sided tussle the Seftonians won by 19 points to 5.


WIN FOR OLD BOYS.
H.E.S.O.B. ...3pts. Sefton II ......nil.
The meeting of these teams at Prenton productive of a close contest. Sefton had good forwards, and for three-parts of the game they kept the Old Boys in their own half. After the change of ends the visitors fell off in their attack, and the home backs were occasionally dangerous. The only score of the match was made by Cornforth, who dribbled over the Sefton line and made a try which was not converted.


RAINHILL 13 Pts., SEFTON 0.
Rainhill, at home, defeated Sefton by 2 goals, 1 try (13 points) to nil, the victory being well deserved. In the first half Ikin crossed, the kick failing, whilst in the second half Dr. Ainsworth carried four men over the line to score, and then added the extra point. Then Horn cut through the ground under the post, Dr Ainsworth again converting. Webley and Thompson came near scoring for the visitors and a couple of penalty goals should have been registered from easy angles. The team work of the visitors was generally faulty, and sporadic raids stood no chance against the well-knit defence of Rainhill. Near the close, the visitors lost J.Taylor through a knee injury. In a team of merit, Rainhill's forwards did excellent work , C.R. Ikin, J. Storrer, and J. L. Jones being notable. Dr. Ainsworth and T. Airey were good in the three-quarter line, and I. Cherry sound at back. For Sefton C. A. Redhead (back), J. Taylor, and E. Heenan (forwards), and G. Nelson and H. S. Damsell (three-quarters) did good work.
Sefton II. 18pts., St Edward's 3 pts.
Sefton B 12 pts., H.E.S.O.B. 6 pts.
Sefton C 11 pts., Hoylake III. 8 pts.


ST. HELENS OLD BOYS 21 Pts., SEFTON 3 Pts.
Sefton were short of a couple of forwards on Saturday when they visited St. Helens Old Boys. Play in the first half was chiefly confined to the forwards. Bridge kicked strongly from the full-back position, and dashing up to Heming the Sefton full-back, caused him to bungle and the ball rebounded into the hands of Winstanley, who scored. Bridge missed the goal-kick, as well as a fairly easy penalty shot. In the second half play was more open. Monk burst through and scored under the posts, but Foggo failed to improve. R. E. Woods, who played smartly in the half-back position, scored for Old Boys, and kicked the goal. Winstanley ran over again, and W. Davies scored a clever try after good passing. Lyon goaled.
Later Bridge, the home full back, joined in a passing movement, and being the extra man scored a try and kicked the goal. Dodd played well at scrum-half for Sefton, but good tackling by the home backs kept the score down. Grime, Dodd. and Blashill were good among an enthusiastic set of forwards.
Sefton II., on their own ground, West Derby, were much too strong for St. Helen's Old Boys II. A fine pack of forwards laid the foundation for some forceful attack, and Cawthra, Nelson and Evans scored tries, while Redhead kicked a penalty goal.
Sefton B 13 Pts., Preston Grasshoppers III. 12 Pts.


SEFTON DRAW WITH TYLDESLEY.
At West Derby, on Saturday, Sefton entertained Tyldesley, and the result of a keen game was a draw of three points each - a penalty goal to a try. The visitors only had thirteen men, but the Sefton team was also below strength. With weight and numbers forward Sefton pressed hard, very spirited and effective tackling preventing a crossing. The points came from a penalty kick taken by Hutchings. In the second half Leather equalised with a well-worked try near the flag, the kick failing. The visitors handled well, being particularly smart in dashing away from the line-out, and long high punts were keenly followed up. Redhead, the Sefton back, was cool and sure. He also just missed a drop goal in a hot attack at the close. Hutchings and Munce (halves) did finely for Sefton, and Thompson and Bulmer were good. Blood (back), Leather and Dootson (left wing) were good for the visitors, and special merit was shown at times by their young scrum half, Mountford behind a beaten pack.
Sefton II. were in good form against St. Edward's, at Birkenhead, where a hard game favoured the visitors by 12 points to 5 points. Parsons opened the scoring for the visitors, and in the second half Hemingway, Dixon, and Cawthra made further unconverted tries. The Saints' only score was a try, recorded by Philips.
Widnes Secondary School defeated Sefton 'B' team by 28 points to 13 points.


OLD BIRKONIANS 33 Pts., SEFTON 6 Pts.
A close game was expected in this match, at Oxton, but with a clever exhibition the Old Boys were a vastly superior side. Sefton were fairly good forward, but behind the scrummage they were beaten for pace, and in the first half especially the Old Boys had matters all their own way. G. A. Williams opened the scoring with a try, and before half-time Morris, Waterhouse, Harding, Lewis, and Shaw made tries, and G. H. Smith placed two goals. Sefton's two tries were made by Brownbill, and in the concluding half Thomas and Water-house were brilliant in running and passing. Thomas put on two further tries, and G. H. Smith forced his way over the Sefton line for a try.
Sefton II. won their fifteenth victory, defeating Old Birkonians II. by 17 points to nil.
Sefton IIB. met the Old Birkonians II. at West Derby, and won by 17 points to nil. Gibbs opened the scoring for the home team gaining a try which was supplemented by Pearson (2) and Nelson and Evans, the latter being converted by Foggo.
H.E.S.O.B. II. 3 pts. Sefton V. nil.
Sefton IV. 3 pts, H.E.S.O.B. III. 3 pts.
Sefton Extra 23 pts, Preston Grass-hoppers Extra 3 pts.


SEFTON v. TYLDESLEY.
At West Derby, Sefton entertained the formidable Tyldesley. A late start made. The visitors were two men short and Sefton pressed them hard, from one line out Thompson nearly scored, but Sefton got a penalty goal through Hutchings.
The latter missed later from an easy position. Gough was prominent in a Tyldesley rush, but nothing accrued. The visitors were fighting sternly, but did not draw level up to the interval.
Half-time. Sefton 3 points, Tyldesley nil.


PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS 9 Pts., SEFTON Nil.
At Meadow-lane, West Derby. N. W. Hutchings made a welcome re-appearance for Sefton, and did some good work in the three-quarter line. The visitors won by 9 pts. to nil. Tackling was very keen on both sides. A. Foggo made a good but unsuccessful attempt to drop a goal for Sefton. The visitors' three-quarters were very quick on the ball, the forwards being well matched. C. H. Cottam followed up to score Preston's first try, which was unconverted, this being the only score up to the interval. R. Leeming and R.
H. Wiseman scored further tries for Preston Grasshoppers in the second half, following good passing movements.


ANOTHER WIN FOR PORT SUNLIGHT.
SEFTON DEFEATED AWAY.


BRILLIANT KICKING BY HAGMAN.
(By 'Herbitus.')
In a very stubborn struggle Port Sun-light, minus five of their regular team, were able to defeat Sefton at West Derby, on Saturday, Hagman notching all the points for the Southenders, his judicious kicking all through the game being a marked feature of the contest. Sefton were very unfor-tunate to lose the services of Kidd in the first few minutes of the game, the clever threequarter twisting his ankle, which will necessitate his not being able to play for some weeks. In the first half Port Sunlight monopolised the play and came very near scoring on many occasions, their backs being cool, quick, and very clever, and played with good understanding, the mistakes be-ing very few, and when mistakes were made they were quick to retrieve them, The first rea1 test of the game came when Morisson, with a Herculean effort, almost forced him-self through, to be followed soon after by a masterly effort on the part of Bimpson, who failed in his attempt by inches. The crown-ing part of the first half, however, was the brilliant footwork of Hagman who not only scored a try after a free kick taken by him-self, but also converted against a powerful wind. The penalty kick, in which he also was successful in guiding over, was a piece of fine judgement on his part, and he was heartily applauded for his success. No doubt Sefton were badly handicapped by the loss of Kidd, but they could not get going at all, Bradshaw, at times, making poor use of the many opportunities he had behind the scrum. The fear was that the local forwards would not be able to with stand the weight of the opposing pack, but that fear soon became groundless although there were some anxious moments towards the finish in the many scrummages that were formed near Port Sunlight's line. They may not have got possession so frequently at the scrums, but at the line outs, and in their strong rushes and dribbles, Port Sun-light were very effective Sefton, in the second half, played with great determina-tion, and on more than one occasion Munce should have made better use of the oppor-tunities afforded him, Webley and Morrisey giving him some very useful passes. Herringe was very conspicuous in his clever kicking, and at times he was so badly pressed that he was compelled to touch down. It was an excellent game all through, Mr. H. Schofield (New Brighton) handling the play in a very able manner. Teams:
Port Sunlight.- A. Hallam; J. S. Gilyead, R. J. Segger, H. Hagman, A. Bimpon; W. Smith (capt.), J. Sutherland; H.J.Smith, L A Griff iths, A. Morisson, W. R. Great-banks, C. M. Irvine, G. A. Toft, P. Roberts, C. B Clarke.
Sefton.: W. D. Herringe; C. H. Munce, H.S. Kidd. W. Webley, J. Taylor; K. Brad-shaw, J. Morrisey; A. White, J. R. Taylor, H. McKenzie, W. Bulmer, W. Prentice, T. Wicks, J. McCormick, T. Jones.
Port Sunlight won the toss and chose to play against the wind, a stiff breeze blowing across the ground at the time. The visitors were penalised in the first few minutes for offside. Port Sunlight were early in attack, Segger, from a neat pass by W. Smith, gaining ground in a solo run, finding touch in the home half. Bradshaw snapped up from a scrum, but was quickly tackled by Gilyead and well held, Morisson shortly afterwards dribbling into the home 25. Off-side against Port Sunlight enabled the home team to gain a little ground, Taylor. in attempting to break away, being forced into touch. Munce and Kidd effected a neat movement, the last-named in an effort to cut through, coming in contact with Hag-man, and twisting his ankle, which neces-sitated his retirement from the game. The visitors further pressed, the game being mostly in the home half. Bimpson finding touch with a neat kick. Webley was again prominent in a movement on the left wing, but his effort was not a complete success, Bimpson kicking to touch after a splendid tackle. Sutherland stopped a dangerous rush of the home forwards, following which Toft carried the game in Sefton's half with a useful dribble. Good work on the part of Sutherland, Morisson, and Gilyead enabled the visitors to force the play, the game at his period being in the proximity of the home 25, several scrums forming close to the line. Herringe was prominent in a long kick, Hagman returning, play again ruling for a time in Sefton's half, Webley coming to the rescue with a huge punt to touch, Sefton were penalised, Hagman taking the kick, the ball going dead. From the drop out J, Taylor snapped up the ball and was well away, but was tackled by W. Smith and brought down. Further pressure on the part of the home team resulted in Hallam effecting a great save by falling upon the ball, the visiting full-back afterwards find-ing touch with a long kick. Then Port Sun-light forwards indulged in some good work, spreading across the field. Toft making great efforts to force himself through, W. Smith, a few moments later, nearly getting over, being tackled by Herringe close to the line, the full back, in attempting to gather soon afterwards, being tackled by Toft, who, along with Morisson, made a grand attempt to break down the home defence, Herringe having a particularly warm time of it, but stood the test well. Port Sunlight were having most of the game, and, for a while the ball was hovering dangerously near the home line, Bimpson grounding a few inches short. From the ensuing five yards' scrum Sefton came away, being penalised for off-side. Hagman took the kick from the 25 line, and following up was able to tackle Herringe just on the point of clearing. the home full back fumbling, leaving HAGMAN with a grand opportunity of scoring which he was quick to take advantage of, the same player converting. This reverse seemed to wake the home players up a little, and for a time play was confined in the visitors' half, Taylor and Webley being very conspicuous in some neat exchanges. Toft was again prominent in a good dribble, Her-ringe clearing with a judicious kick. The full back soon afterwards being well beaten after some brilliant passing by Sutherland, W.Smith and Bimpson, Munce coming the rescue and saving the situation by kicking to touch. Sefton's defence continued to have a warm time of it, and after Hagman had picked up the ball he got nicely away, handing to Bimpson. and the last-named, still travelling, looked all over a try-getter, but Herringe was not to he caught napping again, making a wonderful tackle, and clearing when hard pressed, Sutherland quickly following, forcing the home full back to touch down. Sefton broke away, Hallam relieving, and after further pressure on the part of the visitors, Webley made a fine clearance with a long kick to touch. From the line out the visiting 'threes' indulged in some fine passing.. Hagman took the ball on the bounce, and handed on to Segger, who passed to Gilyead, the winger, in his effort to race through, going into touch. Sefton were again penal-ised, and from the kick HAGMAN scored a beautiful penalty goal. Following the kick-off in the second half, Gilyead making a fine attempt to get through, Herringe bringing off another great save with a timely tackle and trans-ferring play to the visitors' half, where play ruled until the sound of the whistle for half-time, the visitors leading by 8 points to nil.
On resuming Port Sunlight were the first to show prominence, Morisson gathering very smartly and handing to Bimpson almost on the touch-line, Munce bundling the winger into touch. After Webley had made some ground from the line out he was able to give to Munce in a splendid position, but the winger, in his excitement, seemed to lose control of himself, and was quickly tackled by Sutherland and brought down, Hallam gathering from a forward rush soon afterwards and sending to touch. Sefton were now having far more of the game than their opponents, and for a time the visiting defence was sorely tested, Mor-risey and Munce in particular indulging in some pretty passing, the latter again experi-encing very hard luck after a brilliant solo run, offside against Sefton eased the pres-sure. Several times Sefton tried to get their passing going, and after Taylor had received from the scrum he was able to send Webley away with an excellent pass, but the latter had not gone far, however, before he was tackled by Hagman, and well held. Another fine movement on the part of the visiting forwards ended in Greatbanks narrowly dribbling through, Herringe smartly pick-ing up, and with a huge punt finding touch well up. Another round of passing on the part of Munce, Webley. and Taylor saw the former in possession, but he was handi-capped for room, and ran into touch. By easy stages the visitors again assumed the aggressive, and following some fine ex-changes on the part of Seggar and Gilyead the latter was tackled by Morrisey and well held, Hagman, a few moment's later, saving a certain try by tackling Taylor close to the line. Port Sunlight were penalised for off-side. Morrisey took the kick, Hagman catching, and running well in transferred to Seggar, the last named tapping the ball over Herringe's head, Port Sunlight being pulled up for offside when a try seemed certain. Following another brilliant for-ward rush Sutherland gathered very smartly effecting a fine pass to Hagman, the latter knocking on and spoiling another glorious opportunity. From this Sefton attacked strongly, Munce being particularly pro-minent in another solo run, Morisson bund-ling him into touch close to the visitors' line. Sefton continued in their attack, and following a fine forward rush WEBLEY crossed over after a grand attempt on the part of W. Smith to avert the disaster the visiting captain receiving a nasty kick on the chest forcing him to drop the ball. Morrisey failed to convert. From the kick off Sefton were soon again in the visiting half Gilyead kicking to touch when hard pressed, Hallam directly following return-ing a long kick from Herringe, the ball dropping into touch in the home half. Aided by the wind, Port Sunlight put on a little pressure, Herringe having great difficulty in keeping his line from being penetrated after another rush by the visiting forwards, Griffiths being very prominent. Hagman was next seen in a fine run, Munce effecting relief, the latter player, along with Her-ringe, forcing play in Port Sun light's 25 by some neat passing. W. Smith and Suther-land initiated some fine movements behind the scrums, from which Port Sunlight gained considerable ground, Bimpson having very hard lines when in a good position, Taylor making a timely tackle and saving the situation. Webley transferring play again in the visiting half with a huge punt. McKenzie narrowly missing dribbling through, Hallam saving, kicking to touch. Port Sunlight broke away. Herringe saving under great difficulties, Gilyead making a sensational run towards the finish, Herringe having to touch down to save his line, the whistle sounding for full time, leaving Port Sunlight the victors by 2 goals (1 penalty), 8 points, to 1 try, 3 points.
COMMENTS.
With Morisson back in the forwards Port Sunlight played brilliant football, H. J. Smith leading a good pack, who were dan-gerous right through the game, opening out the play in brilliant fashion. Sefton's for-wards were never really dangerous, always being held in check, McKenzie and Taylor being the pick of the line. The home three-quarters were seen to better advantage in the second half, Munce and Webley giving the host displays. Bradshaw and Morrisey, behind the scrum, did not work with that cohesion as is necessary to the initiation of good movements and were fre-quently tackled before being able to get the ball away. Herringe, at full back, was very sound, and in defence was in direct contrast to the weakness of the other backs, his one mistake, however, in fumbling the penalty kick, costing his side a goal. The visiting defence was sound in every department, W. Smith and Sutherland both being excellent defenders. Of the threequarters Hagman was in every way the best on the field, and seldom made a mistake, and was ably assisted by Bimpson on the wing. Hallam, at full-back, was very safe, his tackling and kicking being very effective.
(Birkenhead and Cheshire Advertiser 30/1/1924)


PORT SUNLIGHT 'A' v. SEFTON 'A.'
SUGDEN'S THREE GOALS.
Port Sunlight 'A' secured a fine win over Sefton 'A' on Saturday, the match taking place at the Oval, Bebington. Port Sun-light were early in attack, SUGDEN opening the score for the home team from a penalty kick. H. J. SMITH added a fur-ther try which SUGDEN converted, the locals leading at half-time by 2 goals (1 penalty) to nil.
Sefton, in the second half, improved im-mensely, but could not withstand the attack of SUGDEN, who added two more tries, in which he also converted one. NELSON and FOGGO obtained tries for Sefton, the final score reading: Port Sunlight 'A' 4 goals (1 penalty), 18 points; Sefton 'A', 2 tries, 6 points.


PORT SUNLIGHT 3rd v SEFTON 3rd.
In this match at West Derby, the locals third string were very unfortunate in not winning, leading up to eight minutes from time by 8 points to nil through tries obtained by GIRLING and HEALEY, the first try being converted by SHAKESHAFT. Towards the finish Sefton made a desperate attack, and through the successful efforts of tries by A. L.ROBERTS and S. KAYE, with the addition of Bateman at kicking a goal, they were able to make draw, the final scores being Port Sunlight 3rd, 1 goal 1 try (8 points); Sefton 3rd, 1 goal 1 try (8 points).
(Birkenhead and Cheshire Advertiser 30/1/1924)


SEFTON WIN AT SOUTHPORT.
The ground at Victoria Park was heavy after the snow, and a high standard of play could not be expected. The only score was a try by Bradshaw for Sefton after fifteen minutes, Finnigan took the kick but was beaten by the conditions. He made a gallant effort, but Gibbs stopped with his hand the ball in its flight. Sefton who had been the more aggressive, continued to exert pressure, and Pennell, for Southport, again proved his worth as a resourceful full-back.
There was, on the whole, nothing much to choose between the teams, whose handling was indifferent as much through the state of the ball as anything else. Both sets of forwards showed promising initiative but finished badly. For Southport W.L. Smith, C.E. Gibbs, Houghton, and Guest were as prominent as any, while for Sefton W.H. Prentice, White, and Wickes were noteworthy.
(Post 14/1/1924)


R.A.F. 3 Pts., SEFTON 3 Pts.
Sefton were the visitors at Shotwick, where a hard and fast game ended with the scores level at three points each, All the scoring was done in the first half. Kidd was prominent early on, and Munce, who came in at stand-off half, was also good. R.A.F. were the first to score, Cocks, their full back, handing off several men before he scored a try at the corner, the kick failing, Munce started the movement which enabled Sefton to equalise, Mackenzie accepting a pass from Jones and crossing the R.A.F. line, Webley's kick failing.
Both sides at tacked strongly in the second half, but no further score resulted. Mackenzie was the best of the Sefton for-wards, though all played well, the back division being good at times. The R.A.F. forwards were good, and the three- quarters handled well.
Sefton A 27 pts., R.A.F. II. nil.
Sefton B 8 pts., Hoylake B 3 pts.
Sefton C 6 pts., New Brighton Extra 3 pts.


SEFTON UPSET.
SEFTON 0-1-3 LIVERPOOL II .. 1-0-5
At West Derby the visitors were a little better than Sefton in all round play, but the home forwards fought strenuously to check the opposition. A mistake by Dodd let in the Liverpool backs, and a converted try before the interval gave them a useful lead.
In the second half McKenzie got a try for the home team, and Foggo was unfortunate in not levelling the points, a well-judged place kick passing inches wide.
St. Edwards 11 pts. Sefton A. 6 pts.
Liverpool III 23 pts., Sefton III 3 pts.


CAMMELL LAIRDS 6 Pts., SEFTON 6 Pts.
The Sefton teams were seen to good advantage in their week-end games. The first team, against Cammell Lairds at Rock Ferry, encountered a stiff opposition, and both sides made the most of their oppor-tunities. Cammell Lairds displayed good bustling forward tactics, and against two tries by Sefton eventually forced a draw.
Sefton II. met Higher Elementary School Old Boys at West Derby. In the first half Gibbs and Humphreys scored tries for the home team, and late in the game Robinson completed the victory with a try which made the score: Sefton II, 9 pts., H.E.S.O.B. nil.
Sefton B, 24 pts., H.E.S.O.B. II nil.
(Post 31/12/1923)


PORT SUNLIGHT 9 Pts., SEFTON 0.
In a capital game Port Sunlight secured a well-deserved victory over Sefton at the 'Oval', Bebington, by 3 tries to nil. Port Sunlight had the visitors on the defence for ful1y three parts of the game. It was a duel between the forwards, but Port Sunlight were much quicker in getting the ball out and far superior in the loose play. H. L. Smith stood out prominently, being best supported by Powell, Morisson, and Dyson. Of the Sefton pack, Wicks, Taylor, and Prentice did very well, Jackson on the one side and Finegan on the other were con-spicuous three-quarters, and put in some very useful work. Sutherland and Smith were particularly smart behind the scrum, and made several openings in clever fashion.
The first portion of the game was point-less, H. L. Smith opening the score in the second half from a forward rush, Jackson added a second try after a brilliant move-ment, Hagman confirming Port Sunlight's superiority with a further try. A feature of the game was the splendid tackling on both sides. Hallam and Kidd, the full backs, being very sound.
(Post 7/1/1924)


PORT SUNLIGHT III. 8 Pts. SEFTON III. 6 Pts.
Play in this match at Bebington Athletic Grounds was very fast and well contested. The forwards were evenly matched, but Port Sunlight got more of the ball in the scrummages. Tozer was the first to score, the home team leading at half time by 3 points to nil. Sefton started the second half well, Kay equalising with a splendid try. Beer, for Port Sunlight, snapped a nice pass to score far out, Sugden converting, and Nelson added a further try for Sefton, the home team winning by 1 goal 1 try to 2 tries.
(Post 7/1/1924)


SEFTON DRAW WITH SOUTHPORT.
What might have been one of Sefton's most attractive matches of the season was spoiled by the weather. Notwithstanding this, the play was good, the result being a draw of 3 points each. Sefton had a following wind in the first half, but were unable to score until, following a line-out, Jones secured the ball and carried it over the line. Finnigan took the kick and had hard luck, the ball hitting the cross-bar. Southport met with a much sterner defence in the second half, for the Sefton forwards, ably led by Stephens and Jones, attacked well. Howlett, however, scored an equalising try for the visitors, which was not converted. All the home forwards were good, Stephens and Jones standing out, while Bradshaw, Redhead, and Finnigan played well. Southport held a slight advantage in their three-quarter line, but the conditions were against them.
Result : Sefton 3 pts., Southport 3 pts.
(Post 24/12/1923)


SEFTON II. 16 Pts, SOUTHPORT II. 0.
Playing at Southport, Sefton II. gave a capital exhibition and won by goals 2 tries. Southport had the advantage of the elements in the first half, but Sefton reached the interval with a goal, Bacon scoring after a long dribble, and Cawthra added the major points. After the resumption the Sefton forwards played in fine cohesive style, and Francis got over the home line with a try. A further try by Russell gave the visitors a strong lead and before the finish Cawthra completed round of passing to score a try behind the posts and place the goal.
Sefton III. (h.), 29 pts; Southport III., 13 pts.
Birkenhead St Edward's (h.), 9 pts; Sefton Extra, 0.
(Post 24/12/1923)


HOYLAKE v. SEFTON.
At Meols. A very wet field caused both teams to play with the ball at their feet. Amidst one of the strenuous rushes Watson Jones for Sefton managed to touch down, and Finigan failed to convert. Just before half-time Kidd was successful in tearing his way through and passed the ball behind the Hoylake line. This time Morrison converted.
Half-time . Sefton 8 Hoylake nil.
(Echo 26/12/1923)


SEFTON 15 Pts., HOYLAKE 0.
Sefton's third win of the season, at West Derby, on Saturday, against the Hoylake team, was very welcome, and though the visitors were trifle unlucky not to score the home side was full value for a victory by 2 goals (1 dropped) and 2 tries (16 pts.) to nil. A rearranged side saw C. A. Red-head at full-back in