THE ASSOCIATION CUP
FIRST ROUND. REPLAYED TIES.
ASTON VILLA V. MANCHESTER CITY.

There was any amount of excitement displayed in Birmingham on Wednesday over this replayed game. Depressing weather was the order in the Midlands, damp, misty rain falling, while the turf at Aston Lower Grounds was in a slippery condition.

Despite the adverse elements, there was a crowd of 17,000 present. Manchester played with the slight breeze behind them in the first half, and soon had the ball over the home lines, Tonge being prominent.

Thus early good half-back work enabled Athersmith to get clear away, and Wheldon was handed the ball in a good position, but he failed to utilise the chance.

Fast and furious the struggle was waged, but at length Garraty got his toe on the ball after Williams had cleared, and scored the first goal for the Villa.

Towards the interval the City pressed vigorously, George and Cowan saving in masterly style. At half-time the score was Aston Villa, one Manchester City, nothing.

Ray cleared a spirited effort by the Villa on resuming. The City were now playing for dear life, and it took all the tactics of Spencer. Evans, and George to hold them at bay.

In some parts the field was now badly cut up, and the heavy going and fast play seemed already to have had an effect on several of the men.

Waking up, the Aston men attacked, and, accepting a cross pass by Smith, Garraty banged through the Villa’s second goal.

Staying the pace grandly, the Villa now ran their opponents off their legs, and several times the City goal escaped marvellously.

Bracing themselves the Manchester team had a look in at the other end. George saving a grand shot Meredith.

Towards the close, the visitors indulged in rough work. Jones tripping Athersmith on the twelve yards line. The referee gave a penalty, and Wheldon netting the ball, a hard fought match ended in favour of the Villa.

Result:—Aston Villa, three goals: Manchester City, nothing.