SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY V. ASTON VILLA.

With the prevalence of fine weather it was not surprising that there was a very large attendance at Olivo Grove Grounds on Saturday, when these teams played their league fixture of the present season.

Since the formation of the League these teams had previously met six times, the Villans having won the three games played home, whilst Wednesday had won two and drawn one. Under these circumstances there was great amount of interest evinced regarding the probable result, and fully 14,000 spectators were present.

The weather, though fine, was rather boisterous a strong wind blowing lengthwise of the ground, which, owing to the high drying wind of the previous twenty four hours was in good condition,

Neither club were able to play their full strength, Aston Villa being short of the services of Welford, Reynolds, and Smith, whilst Wednesday were without Allan in goal, he having met with an injury to his knee when playing against Burnley a fortnight since that has since become very painful and although Massey broke the middle finger of his right hand on December 25, and was hardly fit to play, he was the only one whose services were available.

Wednesday won the toss, and the Villa kicked off towards Harley against a strong wind. They at once made a dash for the Wednesday goal, and less that a minute after the start, the ball was well passed from the right wing to the left, and with a fast low shot, John Cowan scored the first point for the Villains.

With the assistance of the wind, the Wednesdayites had the best of play, but it was not until half an hour had elapsed when Spikesley equalised.

Up to the interval the home side held a slight advantage, Wilkes repulsing several good shots, and the teams crossed over on equal terms—one goal each.

On resuming, Massey bear away from Burton, and when Spikesley was dangerous, Crabtree interposed. Wednesday continued to do most of the pressing for fully fifteen minutes, but then a great change came over the scene, and the “Blades” were placed on the defensive.

Massey saved twice in most marvellous fashion, and then with the players close upon him Massey could not get away the “Header” that Campbell favoured him with, this making the score two to one.

The following play was in favour of the Villans, and three minutes before the close, Crabtree scored from a free kick, Massey just tipping the ball.

Result: - Aston Villa, 3 goals. Sheffield Wednesday 1 goal.