June 8, 1942
It was a happy thought to wind up another season of war-time football at Anfield with a friendly game, which brought together many of Liverpool’s pre-war stars now, in the services, to meet some of the youngsters who have made good in their absence, and guest players who have assisted the old club during the season.
The Army team was styled a Red Rose XI (55th Division Home Forces), with seven former Anfielders in the side, while the home team, in addition to usual guests, included Stan Eastham, making his first appearance since before the war. The Army side won more easily than the score of 3-2 suggests, and this was not surprising in view of their record of only one defeat this season.
Phil Taylor and Harry Eastham were responsible for most of the raids, with Reid, of Bradford City, a grand forager and quick shooting centre forward, whilst Jones was always ready to shoot. In twenty-five minutes the Army were two goals ahead from Reid and Jones.
Spirited defenders
Liverpool’s forwards could not get going at all, chiefly because of the spirited defence of Bush and Westwood, who blotted out many promising moves initiated by Liddell, McLaren, and Done. Right on half-time Wharton, who had missed a few chances, weaved his way through the defenders, however, and scored the best goal of the day with an unstoppable shot.
In the second half Liverpool had much more of the game, but the Red Rose XI went further ahead when Taylor scored from a penalty, and although Haycock headed a fine goal from Eastham’s free kick the Services’ side held their lead comfortably.
Altogether it was a most attractive fixture with which to end the season, and it was a pity there were not more spectators to well the proceeds, which were shared by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool’s War Fund and the Army Welfare Fund.
Result: Liverpool 2, Red Rose XI 3.
Teams:
Liverpool: Alf Hobson, Roy Guttridge, Arthur Owen, Stan Eastham, Fred Finney, Harry Kaye, Billy Liddell, Andy McLaren, Cyril Done, Fred Haycock, Jack Wharton.
Red Rose XI: Boothroyd (Huddersfield Town), Harry Pollard (Sheffield Wednesday), Eric Westwood (Manchester City), Jack Easdale, Tom Bush, Jimmy McInnes, Harry Eastham, Phil Taylor, Reid (Bradford City), Bill Jones, Bill Kinghorn.
(Source: Liverpool Daily Post: June 8, 1942)
"Play Up, Liverpool" 