THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE.
DIVISION I.
ASTON VILLA V. EVERTON

The first League engagement between these clubs was decided Perry Barr yesterday (Monday) afternoon. The weather was a repetition of Saturday, being intensely hot and totally unfit for playing any of our winter pastimes. More than 10.000 people witness the start, which was delayed owing to the referee examining the boots of the players before going on the field.

Both teams were representative, the Villa playing the same combination that drew with Blackburn, whilst Everton had the same team as did duty Wolverhampton, except that Bell displaced Hartley in the centre.

Everton won the toss, Villa opened against the hill in blazing sun.

Play was of the most determined nature. The Villa attacked strongly. Hodgetts and Athersmith each shot and missed before John Cowan registered the first point.

Everton responded, and Spencer had to concede a corner. Nothing came of it, and play returned to the visitors’ territory, but Adams and Parry kept them at bay.

The Liverpool forwards put in some good work, which resulted in Bell scoring a beauty. Greatly encouraged everyone swooped down on the home goal, but the defence was perfect.

Reynolds failed to score off a penalty kick awarded after Parry had deliberately fouled, but Athersmith a moment later made amends by scoring with a long shot, and this was added to by John Devey who headed third goal from a pass by Cowan.

The game stood— Villa, three: Everton. one, at the interval.

On resuming play became most exciting and considering the temperature play was of dashing character throughout.

The visitors tried hard to gain the mastery, but the Villa half-back line prevented any dangerous rushes. When time was called the result was— Aston Villa, four goals: Everton, three.
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*The Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser*
Tuesday 01 October 1895

Aston Villa v. Everton

These teams met at Perry Bar, before a crowd of 10,000 people. In the first half John Cowan scored a fine goal for the Villa, while Bell ran down and scored a very fine point for the visiting side. A penalty kick by Reynolds went wide of the mark. Athersmith scored again and Devey headed a third.

Half-time score: Aston Villa three goals; Everton, one goal.

In the second half the game continued to splendidly contested, and after Athersmith had hit the post Bell scored another good goal for his side.

Campbell replied with another behalf of the Villa, only to see Bell put a third for the visiting team.

The game was now magnificently contested, but nothing else was scored, and a remarkable game ended favour of the home side.

Final Score : Aston Villa 4, Everton 3.