CHAPTER 45. GLORY
At long last Luton Town won its first trophy – the Luton Charity Cup. The optimism of 1885 gradually evaporated as the Straw Plaiters found their level. Dreams of an F.A. Cup win were extinguished by numerous defeats over the years. The rise of Charity Cup competitons provided many clubs with a chance to win something. The absence of leagues mean charity cups added greatly to the number of competitive games played. The Southern League would push such competitions further down the priorirties but they had their place for a few years. See the article HERE for more details on the Luton Charity cup.
14th April 1894. Taken from the Luton Reporter of the 21st April 1894.
“LUTON CHARITY CUP.
FINAL TIE.
LUTON TOWN BEAT WOLVERTON.
There was great rejoicing in Luton on Saturday evening, for after many endeavours to secure possession of a challenge trophy the members of the Town Club team virtually ended a victorious season by obtaining possession of the Luton Charity Cup. It will be remembered that last year the Lutonians were beaten, after a drawn game, by Rushden. The Northants. players were this year vanquished by Wolverton somewhat unexpectedly in the semi-final, and thus the Luton Town men were set what was generally regarded as an easy task. They had not been very severely tested in the preliminary stages. In the opening round they eliminated the Luton Montrose by six goals to one, and in the first of the semi-finals they beat the 1st. Scots Guards somewhat badly by four goals to none.
THE GAME.
Despite the fact that the weather was uninviting in the extreme, there was a very large attendance at the Dunstable-road Ground, and the fact that upwards of £90 was taken at the gates will suffice to show that the crowd could not have numbered less than 4,000, there being a goodly number of boys amongst those who lined the ropes. The Wolverton contingent who accompanied their favourites was about 400. The Red Cross Band was present, and its members played excellent selections prior to the game and during the interval. The teams turned out punctually, and they were received with enthusiasm by their adherents. The players were as follows :—Luton Town : Goal, E. Bee ; backs, W. Chesher and J. Burrows ; half-backs, A. H. Taylor J. W. Julian (captain), and J. Watkins ; forwards, J. Dimmock and F. Allen (left wing), H. Galbraith (centre), J. Finlayson and W. Brown (right wing). Wolverton L. and N.W. : Goal, Turner ; backs, Worker and Timbrell ; half-backs, Bull, French and Kirby ; forwards, Wesley and Roddis (left wing), Gosson (centre), Poole and Sharp (right wing). The referee was Mr. A. Roston Bourke (hon. Sec. Of the Referee’s Association), and the linesmen were Messrs. J. Gibbons (London), and H. H. Cox (St. Albans). The Wolverton men who were stated to have been training for some days, won choice of positions, and Luton started the game from the pavilion end, there being little advantage in the winning of the toss. For a space play was confined to mid-field, but a foul against Dimmock in the first minute afforded Wolverton an opening, which was not accepted. Good play by the “reds” carried the leather up and Dimmock secured a corner, but the attack was repulsed with ease by the railway men. Wolverton were next found in the neighbourhood of Bee’s charge, and Roddis threw away a splendid chance by shooting straight across the goal-mouth. Some excellent play by the home back division was noted, and then a foul was awarded against Galbraith. The same player atoned for this by making a capable run, but Dimmock mulled the pass to him. Wesley had a grand opportunity, there being nobody in front of him save the goalkeeper. He shot straight at Bee who, in the teeth of a strenuous attack, succeeded in preserving his charge, though at the expense of a corner. Luton returned the compliment, Finlayson barely missing. From a corner-kick a great scrimmage ensued under the Wolverton bar, another corner following. This struck the bar, and was consequently ineffectual. From a capital centre by Allen after a run Brown and Finlayson tried hard, the last-named sending just over the bar. The Wolverton men were displaying good style hereabouts, their right wing pair being particularly admired. It should be said, too, that Watkins was working splendidly, while Burrows was greatly distinguishing himself by his cool and safe efforts. Hands against Allen was followed by a corner off Worker, and though the visitors managed to break away after this they were stopped by a free kick for hands. A like decision against Chesher was followed by two corners in rapid succession, and then Galbraith sent the ball into the Wolverton keeper’s hands. Thus far there had been no score, but at length Allen came through and scored in grand style, this achievement being hailed with enthusiastic shouts. This success appeared to stimulate the home side, for during the next minute or two they were perpetually besieging the adversaries’ citadel, and at length Brown evoked another outburst by scoring a second point. A little later the Wolverton representatives threatened danger, but Taylor came through excellently and disposed of the attack. Some amusement was caused by Galbraith running through and sending the ball into the net after the whistle had blown for hands. A period of uneventful play was followed by hands against Taylor, and then Dimmock threw away a rare chance by steering the leather over the line. This example was emulated by Brown, and during the remainder of the operations before the change of ends the visitors had somewhat the best of affairs. After the resumption Julian was stopped for an alleged foul, but the majority of the spectators were of opinion that the decision was a mistake. A minute or two afterwards Luton got down cleverly, and Galbraith almost scored from a pass by Dimmock. The last-named sent behind, and Brown once more imitated this example. From a well-judged centre by Julian, Allen narrowly missed and subsequently Galbraith was spoken to by the referee for fouling. When Wolverton had kicked over the Luton cross-bar, a corner was obtained by the “reds” from a long throw by Taylor, and next Galbraith headed over. The referee gave another palpably wrong decision by penalising Brown for off-side when several men were in front of him. A fine attempt by Taylor was cleverly got rid of, and Galbraith sent in another well intentioned one which was also doomed for failure. Mr. Bourke once more caused some laughter by awarding hands against the “reds” when they had appealed. The Wolverton keeper distinguished himself when in difficulties, and then Sharp ran the ball out when he was presented with a grand opening. The game fluctuated considerably, but it was on the whole in favour of the homesters. When Timbrell sent the ball through his own goal matters looked rosy for the leaders, and the issue was placed beyond doubt a trifle later when Brown obtained a fourth notch. Roddis scored with a first-rate attempt, but the Wolverton men failed to get through again, and when time arrived the Lutonians had won a moderate game by four goals to one. It cannot truly be said that either side showed very good form. Play was at times very fast, but on the whole it was distinctly mediocre. The palm must be given to the winners, who displayed more admirable combination than their opponents. The forwards were decidedly off colour, none of them giving a taste of their true form. The most brilliant of the half backs was Watkins, and Burrows did by far the greater proportion of the useful work at back. Bee did his work well, but it may be mentioned as a significant fact that he did not once tough the ball in the second half. Some smart play was shown by members of the losing side, but in the second portion they were palpably beaten. The referee did not give so much satisfaction as usual, more than one of his decisions being obviously incorrect.
PRESENTATION OF THE CUP.
After the match a tea meeting was held in the Council Chamber at the Town Hall, when the Mayor (Councillor Hucklesby) occupied the chair and was supported by the officials connected with the competition and the teams, while there was also a good attendance of admirers. Mr. Field, of the Midland Hotel, was the caterer.
The Mayor, when the repast had been concluded, was called upon to present the cup and medals. He said he would like to take this opportunity of saying a word or two. First, he would wish to say how heartily and sincerely he congratulated the committee of the Cup competition upon the initiation of the contest. During the four years those charities which ministered to the most helpless and needy of those amongst them had been benefited to a large extent, and he could not but feel deeply grateful as he watched with what keen interest the game was canvassed by those who evidently understood it infinitely better than he. What gave him that the greatest pleasure of all was to think, as he looked round the vast assembly, that so many were receiving pleasure of a right and profitable kind and that they were also helping forward those institutions which claimed the true and sincere sympathy of every right-feeling and right-minded citizen. He was very glad to have to present the cup to the Luton team. Their persevering energy had found its reward, and it would be with very peculiar pleasure that he would hand the cup to the Luton captain as a memento of their earnest endeavour to secure the trophy (applause). They had tried hard on different occasions, and at last they had succeeded, which was another illustration of the old proverb, that to those who had patience to wait everything came. While he was very glad indeed that the Luton team had been successful, he would like to say that he hoped the team from Wolverton would have better luck another time (applause). He was sure they did their very best, and he could only express the hope that as they were to play in another match a week that day success would attend their efforts (applause). It was to him a source of extreme gratification that a game such as that of football, which brought into play the physical endurance and perseverance of those engaged in it, had taken such a hold upon the young men of our day. It augured well when physical outdoor exercises of that kind were indulged in, because they could only bring with them benefit physically and in the highest and best sense when they were engaged in the spirit in which the match had that day been played (applause). I do so with very sincere gratification, and I am sure that feeling is in the minds of all—not only of those who were the winners, but of those who have taken part in the game to-day (applause).
Mr. Julian, who was enthusiastically cheered on carrying off the cup, was saluted with cries of “Speech.” In response, he said he was heartily pleased to receive that beautiful cup on behalf of the Luton Club. They had tasted the bitters—(laughter)—and now they had got the sweets of victory (applause). He was sure no one in Luton was more proud than he of the victory, and he was certain that all the other players were pleased. Their opponents appeared to him to accept their defeat in a very sportsmanlike and honourable manner (applause). The game was not what could be called a good game, but there was no doubt that it was a very fair game. He hoped the club would succeed in doing better things (loud applause).
The medals were next presented by the Mayor, who made some encouraging remarks to each of the recipients as he came up.
Mr. Gosson, the centre forward of the losing team, rose in response to calls to make a speech. He said he and the whole of his team were very pleased with the hearty reception they had obtained. He was sorry that they had lost, but they must give way to better opponents. He hoped that they would do better next season. They fought very hard for the cup and success would, he hoped, crown their efforts later on.
Mr. G. H. Barford (hon. Secretary of the Cup Committee) proposed a vote of thanks to the Mayor for the use of the Council Chamber and for making the presentation. He thought it was very kind of his Worship to take such an interest in sport.
Mr. F. Beecroft, in seconding, observed that his Worship was always the first to give a helping hand to anything in Luton. Inasmuch as the football was associated with the hospital and charities he regarded it as a great kindness this year for the Mayor to be present.
The vote was accorded with musical honours.
The Mayor, in response, expressed his deep appreciation of the expression of their feeling, and said it was always to him a source of great pleasure if in any way by his office he could lend influence to further any good cause. He was amply repaid in that way, and with reference to this occasion he could assure them that he had very considerable pleasure not only in being present but in being a spectator of the game.
Mr. Bourke, who was called upon by Mr. Barford to make a few remarks, said if in any way he had been of service to the Charity it had been to him a labour of love. He was very pleased with the way the game was conducted. As a referee, he never expected to find the best football display in a cup tie. Every man was so anxious to do his very best that very often he did his very worst, but apart from that he thought for a cup tie it was really a capable game. Expressing his thanks to the teams for the very little trouble which they had given him, he said he did not think he ever met teams who took the referee’s decisions better. The referee could not always be right. Players always made mistakes, and that did not made any difference, but if the referee made one mistake the crowd were “on him” like a shot (laugher). Having remarked that he was delighted to be of any service to football, he mentioned that that was his 81st match this season. He went on to say that he wished the Wolverton team every success. They had greatly improved since the commencement of the season, and they played a scientific game. He desired to say the same thing of the Luton players. Since last year he believed they had improved 50 per cent. He thought they had a great future before them if they stick to their committee. After observing that he felt confident the Luton players had an excellent committee, he concluded by expressing the hope that both the Clubs would flourish as they deserved to do. Mr. Bourke subsequently proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Barford in a few complimentary sentences.
Mr. G. Sell seconded, and this was tendered.
The Secretary’s reply brought the proceedings to a close, and thereafter the cup was handed over to the possession of Mr. Smith as representing the Town Club.”
Back row: George Deacon (Trainer), Harry Whitby, Edmund “Teddy” Bee, William Cheshire, S. Wright (trainer)
Middle row: Isaac Smith (Secretary), Joseph “Connie” Watkins, John William Julian, Arthur Holey Taylor, William Wheeler (Asst. Secretary)
Front row: William “Tip” Brown, John Finlayson, Hugh “Gally” Galbraith, Fred Allen, Walter Dimmock.
“THE RHYMER AND THE PLAYERS.
“Craig, the well-known football rhymer, visited Luton on Monday with the Arsenal team, and exhibited the following production anent Luton’s victory :—
Old Luton glories in her sons, her champions, and no wonder,
For, standing nobly to their guns, their foes have knuckled under.
When sturdy rivals fell away and fairly seem’d to falter,
Fam’d Julian and his men stood firm—they never seem’d to alter.
Proud Wolverton, their latest foe, are wiser men and sadder;
Down, in the final test they go, whilst Luton top the ladder.
Pure courage brings its own reward—‘tis still the same old story,
Your local pets by working hard have covered you with glory.”
Played on Monday 16th April 1894.
“LUTON TOWN v. ROYAL ARSENAL.
A DRAWN GAME.
This return encounter was decided on Monday under extremely unfavourable conditions so far as the weather was concerned, this being very stormy. The consequence was that, despite the great interest in the game which was felt in the town, there was only a moderately good attendance, the grand-stand being fully occupied. The start had been announced for 4 o’clock, and it was a little later when the sides took up their positions in the following order :—Royal Arsenal : Goal, Williams ; backs, Powell (captain) and Jeffery ; half-backs, Storrs, Boyle, and Howat ; forwards, Henderson and Crawford (right), Worrall (centre), Mortimer and O’Brien (left). Luton Town L Goal, Bee ; backs, Chesher and Gorman ; half-backs, Taylor, Julian (captain), and Watkins ; forwards, Brown and Finlayson (right), Galbraith (centre), Allen and Dimmock (left). The referee was Mr. J. Wright, and the linesmen Messrs. McQueen (Arsenal), and E. A. Barford (Luton). Luton, who played in white, lost the toss and played against the wind, which was fairly strong. Early in the game the spectators expressed their approbation of a moderately good display, the home side getting remarkably near the visitors’ goal. A foul against Jefferys led to Dimmock scoring in neat fashion, and his success being received with enthusiastic applause. The Arsenal attacked strongly, but failed to get through, the Luton back play at this stage being very strong. Galbraith being given off-side the play was again brought to the Luton end, and Howat sent high over the bar. In about two minutes from the opening score Finlayson evoked another outburst of applause by sending the ball past Williams from a pass by Brown. A minute later Galbraith appeared to have an excellent opportunity of at least trying a long shot but he declined to avail himself of this and the change accordingly passed. A corner off Gorman was followed by an attack on the part of the visitors, but Cheshire managed to clear in fine style. The Second Leaguers were trying very hard just now, and from a hot shot struck the side of the net. When a foul had been awarded against Allen, Crawford headed through from a pass by one of the left-wingers. The spectators were hereabouts moved to indignation by one of the visitors deliberately striking Finlayson in the face, but unfortunately the referee either did not or would not notice this flagrant breaking of the rule of the game. Taylor next conceded a corner, and immediately afterwards Jefferys handled the ball and thereby gave his adversaries a chance of attacking. The home side were not slow to take advantage of this, but the defence opposed to them was too strong. From a free kick for hands against Brown the leather was sent spinning over the bar, and the next point to notice was that Galbraith was penalised for jumping at a man. During the next few minutes the ground was swept by a pitiless rain storm, the whole of the players being thoroughly drenched. It may be readily imagined that the quality of the football deteriorated very considerably, for not only was the ball rendered greasy but the ground became exceedingly slippery and treacherous. In the midst of the tempest Bee was called upon to save, and he executed his task in a very capable manner. Taylor was unfortunate with a long shot which he sent in, this going just outside the post. Just now several slips by the referee were noted by the crowd, who broke into ironical laughter, the appeals having almost invariably been made by the Luton men. From a well-judged pass by Julian, Dimmock sent just outside and that player was very badly fouled by Storrs, this behaviour being followed by shouts of execration from the onlookers. This display, though not altogether welcome, had every excuse, for the play of the person mentioned was unnecessarily rough. Towards the end of the first half the Arsenal experienced very hard luck in failing to score, but despite the fact that the strangers obtained more than one corner in the last few minutes the positions remained unaltered when the midway stage was reached, the scores then being
Luton, two ; Arsenal, one.
During the second portion rain was falling almost continuously and rendered the lot of the players and spectators alike the reverse of pleasant. Soon after the resumption the ball was taken to the Arsenal end, and Watkins, as the result of a capable attempt, sent it out at the side. Dimmock dispatched a splendid shot, which the goalkeeper managed to save at the expense of a corner. Galbraith tried exceedingly hard to increase his side’s lead, but unfortunately this attempt was unproductive. Brown was pulled up for off-side when taking a pass from Galbraith, and the Arsenal got down but sent behind. The visitors had a corner and off-side given against them, but these reverses were not sufficient to stem their progress, for they managed to get into the Luton quarters by means of some extremely pretty passing. After a good shot had been sent in hands against the Woolwich men removed the fray, and the locals were soon swarming round their foemen’s citadel, a corner being readily obtained. In the course of some very brilliant play Henderson shot right across the goal, though without result. A foul against Dimmock was followed by Chesher granting a corner by kicking over his own goal posts. Julian was badly fouled, and Bee saved grandly on one occasion. The enthusiasm of the spectators was again aroused a little later by Galbraith beating Williams when Brown had passed to him in creditable fashion. With such a substantial lead and with the end fast approaching, it was concluded that the Lutonians had victory well within their grasp ; but, whether from over-confidence or from lack of condition is uncertain, they failed to keep out the decided goals. When only 10 minutes remained for play the Arsenal broke through and scored what was probably an off-side goal, the referee, to the amazement of the crowd, allowing this as a genuine score. This performance was repeated in a couple of minutes, this further goal being of an exactly similar nature. There was scarcely a person on the ground who did not agree that both these goals were off-side and that the referee was accordingly radically wrong in his decisions. If this had been the only mistake made by the referee during the game that might have been pardoned, but to speak plainly, the exhibition during the whole of the afternoon was far from satisfactory. Almost invariably during the early portion of the game, appeals by the home side were disregarded, and altogether the general feeling at the close was one of profound dissatisfaction. It should be said, however, that the third goal obtained by Luton was scarcely regarded as a genuine point, Brown being undeniably off-side when he passed to Galbraith. The result of the encounter was a draw of three goals all. Under any other circumstances the Lutonians would have been entitled to hearty congratulations at such an achievement, but considering all the facts this must give place to a sense of keen disappointment. However, the local players have abundantly demonstrated that they are not so far to the Plumstead “reds” as had been argued, and with this grain of comfort we prefer to leave the match.
LUTON AND ITS CRITICS.—Preaching at Dunstable on Sunday in connection with the Ely Diocesan Fund, Canon Macaulay referred to Luton as a place not adequately supplied with the means of grace. He might say—speaking from memory—that that town had increased in population from 12 to over 30 thousand in a few years ; it increased in wealth and prosperity ; but it had not found it possible to keep pace with the great spiritual needs of its population. It would, however, be possible to do that if Christian people would only remember more than they did that they were their brother’s keeper—put away their selfishness, and not say, as in effect so many do, “Who is my brother ?” The following is the amusing criticism of a Dunstable contemporary, who might be advised to get the drawbacks of his own town exposed before persistently attacking his neighbours :— ‘The hint of Canon Macaulay on Sunday—that the population of Luton had increased so rapidly during 10 years that they had out-stripped the means of graces—was very timely, and ought to produce a good effect. It is very melancholy and discouraging to find a town like Luton—which has advanced so rapidly in recent years in population and in wealth—has failed to make adequate provision for her spiritual necessities. Luton, however, has committed other very grave sins of omission besides the spiritual one. It is declared even by some of her own citizens that Luton has failed to make adequate provision for the physical and intellectual wants of the people. She has not yet furnished a good literary institute ; and a commissioner has reported that an awful mess has been made of the so-called free library, though that probably is now starting on a new and better career. While her own citizens expose her lamentable weakness, Luton warmly resents any advice from outsiders. We trust, however, Canon Macaulay’s hint that she has not kept pace with the spiritual wants of the population will not be resented, but taken in the proper spirit, and that additional efforts will be put forth in a spiritual direction.” In face of the over-increasing provision made in Luton by churchmen there does not seem much warrant for such utterances—least of all from strangers to the town.
16th April 1894 committee meeting –
“Letter received from Messrs A.H. Murray Uxbridge, F. Swain Wolverton, Thomas 3rd Lanark, W.W. Powell Old Stephens Bickley Casuals, A. Lake Luton Athletic, A.H. Taylor and J.W. Julian.
Teams selected against Uxbridge for Sat 21st
Bee, Chesher, Whitby, Taylor, Julian, Watkins, Dimmock, Allen, Galbraith, Finlayson, Brown.
Linesmen Mr Shane. Match to commence at 5 o’clock.
“It was left with the Sec to make the best arrangements he could with Casuals but not to exceed £5 for 1st and £12 for 2nd matches”.
“resolved that Sec write to Mr Taylor expressing surprise at him asking anything about the close season seeing we are putting forth extra efforts to make his benefit a grand success”.
Proposed that 30/- for playing season and 15/- for the close be paid to Mr. Julian for season 94 and 5.
Amendment moved that payment to special players be left over for further consideration. 11 voted for the proposal and 5 for the amendment so the former was carried.
Resolved to offer Loughboro £12 12s 0d for match on Saturday 28th.
“that Mr Webdale’s name be struck off the committee on account of not fulfilling his duties”.
“resolved that medals be found by the club for Messrs Wilson and Vickers”.
“that a Smoking concert be held on Monday 30th at the Town Hall. It was then resolved to form a small committee to work up the above but no one being willing to undertake the affair the whole thing fell through altogether”.
16th April 1894 committee meeting –
“Minutes of Committee meeting held at the Library to consider payment to the players.
Mr. Hackett was voted in the chair and the members present were Messrs Arnold, Austin, Barford, Davey, Fryer, Hinson, Horn, Thompson, Wright, Wilkins, Treasurer, secretary and Assistant.
Proposed by Mr Wright, seconded by Mr Horn and carried that Mr Bee be offered 26/6 per week during the playing season and 10/- for the close and
Proposed by Mr Wright seconded by Mr Wilkins that Mr Julian be offered 15/- per week the year round and railway expenses as before.
Amendment proposed by Mr Barford seconded by Mr Arnold that 20/- be paid for playing season and 15/- for the close and expenses as usual. the chairman declared the amendment carried.
It was then resolved to offer Galbraith 30/- per week during the playing season and 20/- during the close also that the same terms be offered to Finlayson.
Proposed by Mr Wilkins seconded by Mr Arnold that 5/- per match be paid to each player for all extra matches except Saturdays.
Amendment proposed by Mr Hinson seconded by Mr Horn that nothing be paid for Boxing Day, Easter Monday and Good Friday.
The Chairman declared the proposition carried”.
21st April 1894. Taken from the Luton Reporter of 28th April 1894.
“LUTON TOWN v. UXBRIDGE.
This match was played on the Town Ground on Saturday afternoon, in excellent weather, before a moderate crowd. The start was delayed through the operation of photographing the home team, who played in their ordinary colours despite the fact that the Uxbridge men were arrayed in bright scarlet. The referee (Mr. E. E. Stuart, of West Herts.) got the men into line as a rapidly as possible in the following order :—Luton Town : Goal, E. Bee ; backs, W. Chesher and H. Whitby ; half-backs, A. H. Taylor, J. W. Julian (captain), and J. Watkins ; forwards, J. Dimmock and F. Allen (left), H. Galbraith (centre), G. Groom and W. Brown (right). Uxbridge : Goal, H. E. Horton ; backs, Corpl. Brown and C. King ; half-backs, W. Stirling (2nd Scots Guards), E. J. White, and J. Ashworth ; forwards, W. Leno and T. H. Beech (right), C. Dennington (centre), “McClintock.” and F. S. Sumpter (left). The linesmen were Messrs. A. H. Murray (Uxbridge) and H. Arnold (Luton). It will be noticed that Finlayson was missing from the team, an accident sustained on the previous Monday having rendered it advisable that he should be substituted. Whitby filled the position until recently occupied by Wilson, whose services have been dispensed with. The home side won the toss and played from the pavilion end. The opening half was pretty much in favour of the visiting side, who displayed fairly decent form, whilst the homesters appeared to have resolved to take matters easily. At the outset Luton got up and Allen sent in, but Julian finally sent over the bar. Hands against Julian was followed by the same player putting in a good dribble, while a little later he followed up some exceedingly tricky play by failing to score. Uxbridge sent in one or two fairly good shots, and thereafter Chesher came through very finely when a score seemed certain. Dimmock was stopped for an alleged infringement of the off-side rule, and Taylor was badly fouled. When Allen had sent the ball between the posts and had been ruled off-side the Uxbridge men made a very capable run and finished up by sending the ball into the net. A little later Galbraith scored from a corner excellently taken by Dimmock. Until the interval the Luton men held the upper hand, but they failed to further improve their position, and when the change of ends came the score stood at one all. Not long after the resumption the homesters, who had by this time wakened up a bit, obtained a second notch, Allen putting through in the midst of a great scrimmage. From a corner conceded by one of the Uxbridge backs Groom headed through, and the same player put on a fourth notch after some scrambling play. Before the finish Julian headed a goal, and thus the home side won by five goals to one. The fact that the visitors are the holders of the Middlesex Cup had led the spectators to anticipate a good display, but it is stated that several members of their eleven were absent on Saturday, and this doubtless accounted for the somewhat mediocre show which was made. It may be noted that several decisions of the referee were by no means relished by the crowd, and on two specific occasions he was undoubtedly distinctly wrong.
LUTON TOWN v. 3RD LANARK.
This encounter took place on the Town round on Monday afternoon. The Scotchmen, who had vanquished London Caledonians on Saturday somewhat badly, were well represented, and Luton once more requisitioned the services of Gorman (1st Scots Guards). The weather was inauspicious, and the crowd was only of moderate size, there being about 1,500 present. The teams were as follows :—Luton Town : Goal, E. Bee ; backs, Chesher and Gorman ; half-backs, Watkins, J. W. Julian, and Taylor ; forwards, Finlayson and Brown (right), Galbraith (centre), Dimmock and Allen (left). 3rd Lanark : Goal, Seton ; backs, Bowman and Stevenson ; half-backs, Blair, Barbour, and Kirkwood ; forwards, Stewart and McInnes (right), Johnson (centre), Clelland and Henderson (left). The referee was Mr. Chase, and the Luton linesman was Mr. H. Shane. The visitors won the choice of positions and defended the goal at the Dallow-lane end. Immediately after the start Galbraith had hard luck in failing to get in a good shot, the ball very luckily striking one of the Scots’ backs. Julian sent out from the middle of the field in making a long attempt. When play had been confined to mid-field for a space, Stewart obtained a chance at the Luton goal, but over-ran the ball. Afterwards the operations were confined for some time to the Luton lines, and more than once Lanark had exceedingly hard lines in failing to score. A great struggle on one occasion took place in front of the home fortress, in which Bee and the backs behaved extremely well. Stewart was pulled up for off-side, and hands off Gorman was the next noticeable feature. Bee was again presented with a chance of distinguishing himself, and in the midst of a hard tussle Watkins sent over his own bar, thus conceding a corner. Luton made a trip to the other end, and Finlayson barely failed with a plucky attempt from a pass by Watkins. A couple of free kicks against Luton for infringements of the rules by Galbraith were awarded, and Henderson gave the home defenders an anxious time, one or two shots being kept out in marvellous fashion. Two decisions against Lanark were noted, but this did not long stay their progress, for they were soon again swarming to the attack. Galbraith kicked a long shot which missed by a yard. At length the Scotchmen broke through, and Clelland did the scoring for them. A corner to the leaders followed, and Blair collided with Taylor, the result being that he was somewhat hurt. McInnes was hurt about this time and retired. When the visitors had headed over Galbraith made a tricky display and failed somewhat unluckily. Allen, when in a good position for scoring, missed a pass by Julian. Hereabouts McInnes returned, his hurt having been by no means serious. Another good pass from Julian was muffed by Brown, and subsequently a very fine attempt by Galbraith from a long distance went just outside the posts. Shortly afterwards the home citadel was again besieged, and a score seemed imminent, but by capital play on the part of the backs this disaster was averted. The “reds” subsequently copied the visitors’ tactics and made a determined attack on Seton’s charge. A couple of corners in rapid succession led to an opportunity being presented to Julian, who unfortunately headed over. When the whistle had blown for offside one of the Lanark men sent the ball past Bee, but this of course did not score. Towards the end of the first half the Luton goal was again fiercely assailed, and the interval arrived without any alteration in the score being effected, the Lanark men at the midway sage leading by one goal to none. Immediately after the resumption the home combination went down with a great rush and forced Seton to kick out, the might kick with which he cleared leading to a corner. From this Julian sent the ball through, thus equalising amid great applause. This feat had been achieved with 10 men only, Taylor having been off the field. He resumed a little later, but he was partially disabled, his arm being seriously damaged. This was a great drawback to the homesters, Taylor’s throws-in being quite a feature of their play. A few minutes after the equalising point had been notched. Bee created intense disappointment by allowing a very soft shot to roll over his hands through the goal, McInnes scoring. The “reds” were by no means disheartened by this reverse, for their play was quite the reverse of their show in the first portion of the game. Seton effected a really marvellous save, the great wonder being how the two Luton men who were attacking him could fail to wrest the ball from his grasp. A magnificent shot by Allen troubled the opposition keeper, who was obliged to concede presented to him from this, but he failed to take advantage of it. Bee was called upon to knock out in a minute or two, and next Galbraith had very hard luck. Taylor narrowly missed scoring against his own side a minute or two after, the ball going out over the Luton line, while Gorman cleared so badly on one occasion that it was with difficulty the Northerners were checked. Finlayson headed in in fine fashion, and Seton again gave a corner, the same player being once more called upon directly afterwards. The home players maintained the pressure for some time and they met with terribly hard luck, more than once a point appearing inevitable. Galbraith missed by a foot or so, and from a corner Brown steered the leather over the line. McInnes put in the best run of the day, but sent out. Hands against the leaders right in goal looked ominous, but nothing resulted, and a foul presented Gorman with a chance, that player sending behind. Immediately afterwards the strangers increased their lead, and a minute alter a fourth notch was registered. Dimmock and Finlayson made good attempts, and then the Scotchmen obtained their fifth point. From a corner Julian headed a second point for the home side, who pressed until the end, when the result was found to be a win for the visitors by five goals to two. All that need be said is that the better team won, but that if the homesters had accepted their chances there would not have been such a pronounced disparity between the scores.
23rd April 1894 committee meeting –
“Letters received from A.C. Knight Southampton St. Mary’s, G. Rae Burton Swifts, J. Edge Royal Ordnance, A. Wordworth Rotherham, A. Strutton West London League, W. Cockain Loughboro, A. Rostron Bourke, H.O. Williams”.
“sec go as far as £15 as an offer to Loughboro. £10 to Royal Ordnance, £15 to Burton Swifts.
Permission be given to Hospital Authorities to make collection on the ground Sat 28th”.
“sec write to Mr Julian explaining that we could not pay close season money down on account of opening the way for the same application from other players”.
Team selected for Sat 28th. Bee, Gorman, Parker, Julian, George, Watkins, Dimmock, Allen, Galbraith, Chesher, Brown.
Referee from Association. Linesman Mr Hackett.
Team for Monday 30th. Bee, Gorman, Julian, George, Watkins, Dimmock, Allen, Galbraith, Chesher, Brown.
Left back to be left until Saturday.
Referee Mr Chase, Lineman Mr Wheeler.
Gatemen for Saturday Messrs Wilkins and Wright. Monday, Arnold and Austin.
Resolved that Mr Anstee be not allowed to take portrait of team.
Gate money for 16th £30 14 6 Stand £9 10 11
21st £19 16 9 Stand £1 15 2
23rd £23 19 0 Stand £3 15 1
“Resolved that safe be left in the hands of Secretary and Treasurer.
The cup be insured against fire and burglary.
That Allen and Galbraith be allowed to sign on by Saturday 28th. In the event of their refusing to sign the committee proceed to fill the vacancies”.
28th April 1894. Taken from the Luton Reporter of 5th May 1894.
“LUTON TOWN v. LOUGHBORO’.
On Saturday the Town Club authorities had arranged a fixture with Loughboro’, whose prominence may be gathered from the fact that they stand third in the list of the Midland League teams, having lost only two matches during the whole of the competition. There were about 1,500 spectators, and a cold wind made matters somewhat uncomfortable for these. Loughboro’ had a full team, while Luton were compelled to requisition the services of several players who do not ordinarily appear in the team. This necessarily destroyed the combination which has won so many matches for the Town Club this season. At about the advertised time the players ranged up in the following order :—Loughboro’ : Goal, Storer ; backs, Stokes and Middleton ; half-backs, Rose, Plackett and Smith ; forwards, Farmer and Tucker (right), Carnelly (centre), F. Weightman and Sharpe (left). Luton : Goal, E. Bee ; backs, Parker and Vickers ; half-backs, Julian, George and Whitby ; forwards, Brown and Finlayson (right), Galbraith (centre), Allen and Chesher (left). The referee was Mr. A. Roston Bourke, and the linesmen Messrs. W. T. Cockain (Loughboro’) and J. Bennett (Luton). Luton lost the toss and started operations against the wind. The visitors attacked hotly in the first minute, and Vickers cleared well. Galbraith made a capable attempt with a long shot, which unfortunately went on the wrong side of the post. George, who was exhibiting capable method, sent in a good attempt, the goal-keeper being forced to throw out, a corner following. The same player made a very fine single-handed run. A corner against Luton was followed by some fine play, and then the Loughboro’ left wing sent the ball high over the bar. When Julian had made an effort with a long shot Bee was called upon to keep out a splendid attempt from Carnelly. A minute later Weightman opened the scoring. Chesher forced a corner, and subsequently Loughboro’ managed to get to the other end by means of some capital play. Twice Galbraith tried long shots but failed by the merest chance, and Allen was pulled up for off-side when he put the leather through. A corner against Luton was chronicled, and thereafter Finlayson sent over the bar, that player and Brown taking up in exceedingly good style half a minute later. George put in another long attempt which did not quite come off, and hands against Galbraith next followed. Brown and Finlayson had more attempts at scoring, and subsequently Loughboro’ were stopped for getting off-side. Hands against Vickers was noticed, and then Galbraith experienced hard luck. At half-time the score stood at one to nothing in favour of the visitors. In the second portion there was a sifting up of the positions of some of the Luton players. Whitby was sent up forward on the left wing, Vickers was put half-back, and Chesher went to his accustomed place at back. Galbraith immediately after the re-start sent in a splendid shot which the goal-keeper dropped, and it appeared to most of the spectators that the ball went between the posts. Mr. Roston Bourke was some distance up the field, and declined to allow a score. Brown was pulled up for off-side. Galbraith, who had been unmercifully and undeservedly badgered by the spectators, sending in another excellent attempt. The same player kept up the attempts to score, and a little later on an execrable miss by Parker let Weightman through a second time, that player improving his number. Galbraith and Julian were pulled up for fouling, and a corner against Loughboro’ followed. The play was now ruling very much in favour of the home side, and hands against the visitors in rapid succession near the goal looked ominous. From a free kick the ball went into the net, but for some inscrutable reason the point was disallowed, though it seemed that it was certainly played on by a second player. Galbraith missed the ball twice when near goal, and shortly afterwards Allen seemed to have succeeded in forcing the leather through. No notch was allowed, however, and when the end came the visitors had won by two goals to none. It is not too much to say that Loughboro’ could have won much more easily if they had wished. Parker’s play at back was certainly not of the character which would induce the Town Club rulers to engage him regularly. The whole team was at sea, and the wonder is that the men got off so lightly. Mr. Roston Bourke was by no means infallible, some of his decisions being far from acceptable to the crowd, and for once in a way it appeared to competent critics that the crowd had very good reasons for their dissatisfaction.”