February 27, 1893
A goodly crows witnessed the game at Anfield, where Liverpool were opposed by the newly strengthened Southport Central. The home team were still without Jock Smith, who is not yet fit to play, but at the last moment – although not expected to play – Matt McQueen too up his position as Thomas Wyllie’s partner.
The game at the outset gave promise of being a tough struggle, and although Liverpool early on asserted their superiority, the first portion of the game was full of pretty points; but the least said about the second half the better, as individualism became too rampant.
Sydney Ross, despite the injury of last week, played a fine game, whilst Duncan McLean was seen in his very best style. The whole of the halves worked grandly, James McBride’s tackling and placing being of the highest order. John Miller sustained his return to form, McQueen, by his deadly shooting propensities, was most dangerous of the forwards; but his partner Wyllie has gone off very much, for whereas he was usually to be relied upon to score he now cannot meet with success. Malcolm McVean and Hugh McQueen combined well in the first half, and the centres of the latter might have been turned to better account.
Jimmy Gee, the Southport goalkeeper, performed prodigies, especially in the second half, and he undoubtedly saved the visitors from a heavier defeat. Tom Smith and Dick Fairhurst ably assisted him, the former particularly being a shining light throughout the game. Charles Gee was the best of the visiting halves, while among the forwards Billy Hastings, P. McCabe, and Kenny Davenport at times showed better form than their confreres.
(Liverpool Mercury: February 27, 1893)
XX
"Play Up, Liverpool" 