Shooting counted

September 7, 1942
Liverpool’s success over Wrexham at Anfield was never in doubt, but certainly the margin of the win was rather flattering to the Reds, or, shall I say, a little unjust to Wrexham?

It cannot be denied that Liverpool knew their goal-way, and particularly Cyril Done, who carried on his good work of last season and cracked home three. Wrexham went away pointless and goalless simply because they missed their way in front of goal.

Wrexham kept play far too close and their inside-forwards were repeatedly crowding into each other That was right “in the hands” of Eric Keen, Ray Lambert and company. It lightened their task considerably.

So far as actual attacking was concerned Wrexham had as much of the game as Liverpool although it lacked that definite stamp of class. The Welshmen were enterprising and willing, but there was a lacking in collaborative sense. One thing, they have discovered a bonny winger in George Collins, a Wrexham boy whom they discovered and developed. Collins has all the makings of a tip-top winger who go places especially if he can control his shin-pads as readily as he controls the ball.

I was also impressed with the work of David Jones in goal; Frank Hill, the Arsenal half-back of the progressive ideas; Arthur Turner and Frank White, while Tommy Jones, of Everton, unable to travel with the Blues, came in at left back to apply touches of rare vintage. Yes, an encouraging display by Wrexham, but Liverpool were the masters.

The Reds kept the ball moving freely and besides their goals struck the framework several times. George Mills, of Chelsea, was not particularly conspicuous as a leader, but it was he who played more of the inside forward role, creating openings rather than taking them. This is partly why Done got three while Dick Dorsett got one – and a truly great goal at that. From 20 yards it flew like a rocket. Dick can surely hit them.

Yes, despite enforced re-shuffles due to injury, Liverpool were generally going places and I thought Ray Lambert, Alf Hobson, Eric Keen, Dick Dorsett and Cyril Done were on top note. Eddie Spicer came back to give us some nice touches in characteristic style before he tired. Roy Guttridge was twice injured, but one hopes he will be all right for next Saturday’s “Derby” game with Everton at Anfield. And a warning to the Reds. They will have to play with greater conviction than on Saturday to down their rivals.

Chairman Mr. Richard Lawson Martindale dashed back from a short holiday to re-welcome us to the Anfield fold, and he was supported by Directors Messrs. William McConnell, vice-chairman, William John Harrop, Walter Henry Cartwright, and George Alfred Richards. Chairman Mr. John Hughes, of Wrexham, brought along quite a big party, including Directors Messrs. Tom Williams, and Sam Clutton, while Manager Mr. Tom Williams was right when he claimed that they had no reason to feel despondent after their display.
(Evening Express: September 7, 1942; via http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk) © 2018 Findmypast Newspaper Archive Limited