ASTON VILLA V. WEST BROMWICH ALBION.

These local rivals met on the Perry Barr enclosure on Saturday last, about 16,000 people witnessing the encounter.

The Albion played their usual team, except that Higgins played for Richards, who is on the suspended list.

Aston Villa had, on this occasion, thoroughly reorganised their representation.

Albion won the toss, and elected to play downhill. Devey kicked off, and at once the play became fast and of a most determined character.

The Albion forward lined made early attacks. Bassett, M’Leod, Higgins being most conspicuous. Several corners fell to either side, but nothing resulted, until from a scrimmage in goal, the ball was put back to Spencer who landed it into the mouth of the goal, and Hodgetts gained first point.

After some mid-field play, Athersmith put in one of his famous sprints, and shot across goal, when Woolley easily credited his side with another point.

No further point was registered before the interval

On resumption of play, Villa made a determined stand, but every endeavour was nullified by the splendid defence of the back division of the Throstles.

Some further play in mid-field followed, then Athersmith, Chatt, and Devey were seen to advantage in a splendidly combined run which ended Chatt scoring the third for Villa.

This reverse made the Albion more determined, and after several attempts the desired effect was obtained, when McLeod scored.

Despite the many determined efforts which followed, no alteration was made to the score, the Villa winning three goals to one.