May 15, 1944
Only for a few minutes did Bolton Wanderers have any hope of pulling back two goals against Liverpool at Burden Park. Nat Lofthouse gave the Wanderers the lead in the first three minutes, but Liverpool recovered quickly from the shock and after Don Welsh had equalised there was never any doubt about which team would win.
Liverpool played some excellent football and when Cyril Done gave them the lead the Wanderers appeared to lose their confidence and began ball-chasing. This played into the hands of the Reds who were able to overcome the handicap of losing Harry Johnston, the “guest” from Blackpool, who was injured, so that Berry Nieuwenhuys, captaining Liverpool, had to go to right half. Don Welsh increased Liverpool’s lead, and near the end Laurie Hughes, in trying to head back to Alf Hobson, placed into his own net.
Liverpool’s success was comfortably gained, the Wanderers never reproducing the form which made them such a delight at Anfield. The Cup – and Savings certificates – were a just reward for one of the season’s most consistent and attractive teams.
(Evening Express: May 15, 1944)
"Play Up, Liverpool" 