Wednesday, 1st April 1891
SCOTTISH FEDERATION LEAGUE MEETING
Delegates from Arthurlie, Falkirk, Kilmarnock Athletic, King’s Park, Pollokshaws and Wanderers (Glasgow) met to finalise the arrangements for forming the league. Replies from invited clubs; Albion Rovers, Burnbank Swifts, Motherwell and Wishaw Thistle had been recieved and it was resloved that they would be included. Dykebar had also been invited to take part but no reply had been received accepting their place. It was therefore unanimously agreed that Hurlford, a club that had expressed interest in joining, would be accepted as the 12th club.
The rules and constitution was formally agreed, based largely on that of the Scottish League.
Thursday, 2nd April 1891
MEETING OF THE SFA
There was a rather poor attendance at the SFA meeting and the most contentious item under discussion was a letter from Mr Alcock, secretary of the English FA. The letter stated that the FA had been asked to sanction a match between the Scottish and English Leagues to be played on Saturday 18th April 1891. Why the English League had approached the English FA was more likely to be of a courteous nature rather than asking for permission. Rather than make up their own minds, the FA past the buck to the SFA requesting their views.
Mr Sliman (Battlefield FC) opened the debate stating he thought that the Scottish League was antagonistic to the Association and that during the season they had been working at cross purposes. The Association, however, had refrained from action, but forbearance might degenerate into weakness, and here was now an opportunity to assert themselves. He instanced the action of the SFA in prohibiting its clubs taking part in the English Cup as interest was thereby taken away from their own competition. Accordingly he urged the committee to declare that the proposed match would be detrimental to the interests of the Scottish Association, and to urge on the English Committee the desirability of preventing it.
Mr Park (Cambuslang FC) backed Sliman stating he was dead against the scheme. If, he said, the League had difficulty in carrying out its fixtures, as witness the negotiations over the charity ties, how could they undertake an International game? The whole project was only organised as a counter irritant, and for the sake of some elat to the League. The Scoto-English professionals were often seen in Glasgow, and a representative English League eleven could not be got without them. In saying that, the match simply meant funds for the League. Personally, he felt that the League was antagonistic to the Association, and he had seen communication to the effect that the players should not appear in the trials, but should keep themselves fresh for the League International. The Scottish League had also appropriated trysted dates, and it now became a question whether the League should rule the Association or the Association the League. If the former did not exert itself chaos would ensue in Scottish football, and his experience in the past was such that this contingency was by no means uncertain. Finally, in this matter the League was going beyond its constitution.
Sliman carried the day by 3 votes.
So the battle lines between the SFA and the League were now firmly drawn. By asking the English FA to veto the match it was now unlikely to go ahead as planned. Both Sliman and Park, in their arguments, demonstrated their contempt for the League and their hatred of professionalism. Park was particularly hypocritical in that he was a committee member of Cambuslang FC, a league club. He was also inaccurate about the league’s desire to make money, as he would full well know that the League had stated that proceeds from the match would be given to charity.
GLASGOW MERCHANTS’ CHARITY CUP COMMITTEE MEETING
The committee for the competition decided to adhere to its original dates, this despite approaches from the Scottish League and the selected clubs themselves for it to be put back until May.
Friday, 3rd April 1891
CONFERENCE OF ASSOCIATION SECRETARIES
Secretaries from all football associations throughout the UK and Ireland met in Blackburn to co-ordinate next season’s fixtures. The season would run from September 1891 untill April 1892, a total of 35 Saturdays. National and County Cup matches would take up 20 Saturdays not counting the need for replays. The Scottish Cup Final is scheduled for Saturday, 6th February 1892.
Saturday, 4th April 1891
LEAGUE FIXTURES ROUND 26
RANGERS 4 VALE of LEVEN 2 2,000
White,Hislop
(2).A.McCreadie
Half
time: 3-0 Referee:
Rangers: Reid, Gow, Hodge, A. McCreadie, McIntyre, Mitchell, Hislop, Henderson, Kerr, McPherson, White
Vale
of Leven: Doherty,
Smith, G. Sharp, Cornoch, McNicol, W. Graham, W. Bruce, Rice, T. Graham, Mills,
D. Bruce
St.MIRREN 1 CELTIC 0 10,000
Easton
Half time: 0-0 Referee: Mr Allison
St.Mirren: Cameron, McFarlane, A. McBain, McCartney, Brown, E. McBain, Morrison, McAuley, Wylie, Dunlop, Easton
Celtic: Bell, Reynolds, McKeown, McGhee, Dolan, Maley, Coleman, Boyle, Dowds, McMahon, Campbell
THIRD LANARK 1 CAMBUSLANG 2 3,000
Untraced Maxwell,Buchanan
Half time: 0-1 Referee:
Third Lanark: Downie, A. Thomson, Smith, Lapsley, Love, Scott, Faulds, Wilson, Johnstone, McInnes, W. Thomson
Cambuslang: Ross, Ramsey, Collins, Russell, Jackson, Jamieson, Low, Buchanan, Maxwell, Gourlay, Brown
League Table
|
|
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
Pts |
GA |
|
1. |
Dumbarton |
14 |
11 |
3 |
0 |
51 |
14 |
25 |
3.643 |
|
2. |
Rangers |
15 |
11 |
3 |
1 |
49 |
20 |
25 |
2.450 |
|
3. |
Cambuslang |
14 |
7 |
3 |
4 |
39 |
34 |
17 |
1.147 |
|
4. |
Heart of Midlothian |
12 |
5 |
2 |
5 |
25 |
21 |
12 |
1.190 |
|
5. |
Celtic |
12 |
6 |
2 |
4 |
28 |
18 |
10* |
1.556 |
|
6. |
Third Lanark |
11 |
4 |
1 |
6 |
23 |
30 |
9 |
0.767 |
|
7. |
St.Mirren |
15 |
4 |
1 |
10 |
32 |
52 |
9 |
0.615 |
|
8. |
Vale of Leven |
14 |
4 |
1 |
9 |
21 |
49 |
9 |
0.429 |
|
9. |
Abercorn |
14 |
3 |
2 |
9 |
29 |
39 |
8 |
0.744 |
|
10. |
Cowlairs |
13 |
2 |
2 |
9 |
17 |
37 |
2* |
0.459 |
* Celtic and Cowlairs both deducted 4 points for fielding ineligible players
Dumbarton did not have a league match as they were on charity cup duty and this allowed Rangers to draw level at the top with an easy win over Vale of Leven. Celtic’s inconsistency continued as they lose to St.Mirren in Paisley. Third Lanark suffer yet another defeat, this time to in form Cambuslang.
Rangers were 2 goals up within 8 minutes against hapless Vale of Leven. White’s opener after just 3 minutes was followed up by Hislop. Vale stirred after this set back but Rangers maintained the upper hand and the Leven men were all but dead and buried when Andy McCreadie grabbed Rangers third. The second half showed little improvement by Vale and Hislop made it 4-0 for the home team on 50 minutes. It was all Rangers from then on but no further goals were added.
It was a hard fought match between St.Mirren and Celtic at Westmarch with Saints having the better of it at first and as the first half wore on Celtic had the better of it. Half time was called with no scoring. Saints again had Celtic under pressure at the start of the second half and this time they made it count with a goal by Easton. Towards the end of the game Celtic had the St.Mirren goal under siege but to no avail.
Third Lanark were the first to show but Cambuslang soon fought back and began to dominate. Maxwell opened the scoring for Cambuslang after 15 minutes and for the rest of the first half the Warriors were unable to make any progress. The second half saw Third Lanark on the attack and they equalised from a free kick on 48 minutes. Cambuslang were not to be outdone and Buchanan shot them back into the lead a few minutes later. Third Lanark pressed hard but were unable to force a second equaliser and Cambuslang ran out 2-1 winners.
HOME INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
ENGLAND 2 SCOTLAND 1 9,000
Goodall,Chadwick Watt
Half time: 2-0 Referee: Mr Morrow (Ireland)
Ewood Park, Blackburn
England: Moon (Old Westminster)(Capt.), Howarth (Preston North End), Holmes (Preston North End), Smith (Nottingham Forest), Holt (Everton), Shelton (Notts County), Bassett (West Bromwich Albion), Goodall (Derby County), Geary (Everton), Chadwick (Everton), Millward (Everton)
Scotland: Wilson (Vale of Leven), Arnott (Queen’s Park)(Capt.), Smellie (Queen’s Park), Begbie (Heart of Midlothian), McPherson (Heart of Midlothian), Hill (Heart of Midlothian), Watt (Kilbirnie), Rankin (Vale of Leven), Sellar (Queen’s Park), Berry (Queen’s Park), Baird (Heart of Midlothian)
Scotland lined up as
originally selected but it was a poor showing as they lost to England for only
the 4th time in 20 matches. England were 2-0 within 30 minutes with
goals from Goodall and Chadwick. Scotland’s goal did not come until 5 minutes
from the end. With no Blackburn Rovers players in the England team, the locals
turned there backs on the game and only 9,000 spectators bothered to turn up.
GLASGOW NORTH EASTERN CUP, FINAL
CLYDE 3 NORTHERN 0 5,000
Half time: 1-0 Referee: Mr Dunn (Cambuslang)
Celtic Park, Glasgow
Clyde win the Glasgow North
Eastrn Cup for the first time.
GREENOCK & DISTRICT CHARITY CUP, SEMI FINAL
DUMBARTON 2 PARTICK THISTLE 0
Half time: 2-0 Referee:
Cappielow Park, Greenock
ROSEBERRY CHARITY CUP,
SEMI FINAL
LEITH ATHLETIC 4 RAITH ROVERS 2 1,500
Half time: 1-1 Referee: Mr Waugh
Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh
ORDINARY MATCHES
(SELECTED)
COWLAIRS 4 MORTON 5
Half time: 3-3 Referee:
Springvale Park, Springburn
KING’S PARK 4 HEART of MIDLOTHIAN 6
Half time: 1-4 Referee:
Forthbank, Stirling
QUEEN’S PARK 4 THISTLE 1
Half time: 2-1 Referee:
Hampden Park, Glasgow
MEETING OF THE NORTHERN
LEAGUE
Delegates from Aberdeen, Arbroath, East End, Fair City, Forfar Athletic, Harp, Johnstone Wanderers, Montrose, Orion, Our Boys, St.Johnstone and Victoria United met to finalise the structure of the proposed Northern League.
It was proposed by Mr Duncan (Our Boys) that the league should consist of 8 clubs from those represented. This was seonded by Mr Spalding (East End). However Mr Diamond (Harp), seconded by Mr Gamble (St.Johnstone) moved an amendment that 10 clubs should constitute the league. After some discussion the motion for a league of 8 clubs was carried by 16 votes to 7. On the motion by Mr Stewart (Aberdeen), seconded by Mr Williamson (Our Boys), it was unanimously agreed that Arbroath, Forfar Athletic and Montrose be admitted.
There next followed long debates on how many clubs should be admitted from each city: Dundee had 4 representatives, Aberdeen 3 and Perth 2. It was agreed by 16 votes to 8 that Aberdeen would have only one team admitted and a second ballot was carried out to elect which one. This resulted in favour of Aberdeen who secured their place with 17 votes. Orion gained 5 votes and Victoria United 2.
Mr Davie (Fair City) moved and Mr Dorwood seconded, that only two clubs should represent Dundee. Mr Gamble moved an amendment, and Mr Smith (Montrose) seconded, that Dundee should have three. In the course of lengthy discussions it was pointed out by Mr Gamble that Dundee with 160,000 inhabitants was entitled to a larger representation than Perth, which had only one-fifth that number. Ultimately a vote was taken on the matter, when the motion that Dundee have three representatives was carried narrowly by 11 votes to 9. It was unanimously agreed that East End and Our Boys should be elected, and on a vote, Harp was selected over Johnstone Wanderers by 14 votes to 6.
A vote was taken to ascertain which of the Perth clubs should be elected and this resulted in 13 voted for St.Johnstone and 6 votes for Fair City. The league would therefore consist of Aberdeen, Arbroath, East End, Forfar Athletic, Harp, Montrose, Our Boys and St.Johnstone.
The following officials were elected: - President, Mr Doig (St.Johnstone), Vice Presedent, Mr Stewart (Aberdeen), Treasurer, Mr Smith (Montrose), Secretary, Mr Williamson (Our Boys). The proposed rules were adopted which included a rule that no league club would be allowed to play an ordinary match at Dundee on the same date that a league match was being played in the city. The rule did not, however, preclude two league matches from being played in the city on the same day.
Wednesday, 9th April 1891
GLASGOW MERCHANTS’ CHARITY CUP COMMITTEE MEETING
Having totally dismissed the overtures by Celtic, Rangers and Third Lanark to hold the competition in May, the committee insisted that the original dates would stand and that the original three clubs would be replaced. The new line-up was to be Clyde, Northern, Partick Thistle and Queen’s Park, however, it transpired that Clyde were unavailable and were therefore replace by Airdieoinians. The draw was then conducted with Northern against Airdrieonians on Saturday, 11th April 1891 and Queen’s Park against Partick Thistle on Saturday, 18th April 1891. The final would take place on Saturday, 25th April 1891 and all matches would take place at Hampden Park, Glasgow.
LETTER FROM THIRD LANARK FC TO VARIOUS NEWSPAPERS
“Sir, - May I ask space to correct absurd misstatements in today’s ________ regarding the Charity Cup competition, so far as the 3rd L.R.V. Football Club is concerned. We have not intimated that we will not contest this year, nor have we declined to meet the Queen’s Park or any other club in this competition. On the contrary, we are both willing and anxious to again compete for the cup at present held by our club; but we are unable to play on the dates fixed by the committee, and have intimated and explained this to them, at the same time offering our services unreservedly for any other dates. They have, however, apparently decided not to consult in any way the convenience of the clubs invited to compete, and if the unfortunate result should be a diminution of the proceedings the onus lies with the Charity Committee – I am &c
John B. Wilson
Vice-President, 3rd
L.R.V.A.C.”
Thursday, 9th April 1891
MEETING OF THE SFA
Towards the end of normal
SFA business the Secretary read out a letter from Mr M. Kennedy, Dumbarton FC
committeee member. He stated that he regretted the differences at present
existing between the Association and the League, and with hope of bringing
about an amicable understanding he respectfully asked the committee to appoint
two or three of their number to confer with him on a date to be afterwords
arranged. He stated that he had also asked the Scottish League to appoint two
or three of their number to meet him on a date after that on which he would meet
with the nominees of the SFA.
After the briefest of discussions, the committee unanimously resolved to ignore the letter.
It is not clear whether Mr Kennedy was acting on his own behalf or with the consent of either his club or the league, however, what is clear is that he was prepared to mediate to his best abilities to try to resolve any perceived animosity between the two bodies. With typical arrogance, the SFA committee displayed total contempt for the Scottish League, and indeed Kennedy as an individual, by choosing to ignore his overtures.
PROPOSED MIDLAND LEAGUE
Representatives from Clackmannan, Fife, Perthshire and Stirlingshire met to consider forming a Scottish Midland League. Six clubs were present; Alloa Athletic, Alva, Camelon, Dunblane, Dunfermline Athletic and Grangemouth.
It was agreed the league should consist of 10 clubs and in this respect Bridge of Allan, Clackmannan, Cowdenbeath and Raith Rovers were to be invited to join. A further meeting was set for Saturday, 18th April 1891 to be held in Alloa.
Friday, 10th April 1891
MORE CHARITY CUP FALLOUT
The Glasgow Evening News published an interview with an unnamed member of the Charity Committee.
“At the meeting held on 2nd April 1891 a deputation from Celtic, Rangers and Third Lanark attended. They stated their League matches would not admit of their playing in April, but that they would be willing to do so in May. Our chairman, ex-Provest Browne of Crosshill, stated to them that the Charity Committee were unanimously of the opinion – 1st. That the dates fixed at the conference should be adhered to. 2nd. That these dates were well known to them, and made at the conference, they being represented through the Association. 3rd. That these clubs having a right to expect that they would be asked to play should have kept clear of these dates in making their arrangements. 4th. That the Celtic having agreed to play on the 18th, and the Rangers being free on that day, there was no reason why they should not play. 5th. That the month of April was much preferable to May, in particular from the middle to the end of it, and that a larger attendance would be got and more money drawn; and 6th, that in a matter where the charities of Glasgow were concerned every consideration should be shown for their interests, and the best time taken so as to secure the largest possible sum. They agreed to have another meeting of their several committees, and on Tuesday last we received their replies that they would play in May, but not in April. It may be here stated that before the deputation left the secretary of the Celtic withdrew their letter agreeing to play on the 18th.”
There can be no doubt that the SFA’s dirty fingerprints were all over this decision. The make up of the Charity Committee was 5 members from the SFA and just 2 from the Glasgow Merchants’ Association. Had the committee been more balanced, a different decision would have in all probability been made. The fact that the dates had been known for over a year is pretty much irrelevant. The competition since it began had always been on an invitation only basis and the only constant in the previous 14 editions was Queen’s Park, so none of the selected teams had any right to expect selection. This is bourne out by the fact that Rangers had not been selected in the previous two competitions. In fact it was intimated at the initial committee meeting that Heart of Midlothian and Dumbarton be selected. Hearts had never before been selected and Dumbarton, like Rangers, had not been selected in the previous two years.
This was a veiled attempt by the SFA to have another dig at the Scottish League. But in this instance the league was not a fault. All the league did was to write to the Charity Committee before the first meeting to request consideration to move the dates if league clubs were selected, after that it was left to the clubs themselves to negotiate. In any case even if there was no league, were clubs expected to leave blank two or three Saturdays in April on the off chance they would play in the Charity Cup?
Saturday, 11th April 1891
LEAGUE
FIXTURES ROUND 27
CAMBUSLANG 4 ABERCORN 5 2,000
Buchanan,Brown,Maxwell(2) Bonnar,Nicol,Bowie,McLaren,Buchanan
Half
time: 1-4 Referee:
Mr Marshall
Cambuslang: Ross, Ramsey, Collins, Russell, Jackson, Jamieson, Low, Buchanan, Maxwell, Gourlay, Brown
Abercorn:
Fleming, A.
Cuthbertson, D. Cuthbertson, Bisland, Bowie, Reid, McInnes, Nicol, Buchanan,
McLaren, Bonnar
CELTIC 1 DUMBARTON 0 11,000
McMahon
Half time: 1-0 Referee: Mr J. Robertson (5th KRV)
Celtic: Bell, Reynolds, McKeown, Gallagher, Kelly, Maley, Madden, McGhee, Dowds, McMahom, Campbell
Dumbarton: McLeod, Watson, Miller, McMillan, Boyle, Keir, Taylor, Galbraith, Wilson, McNaught, Bell
COWLAIRS 2 THIRD LANARK 2 2,000
Shanks,McEwan Untraced(2)
Half time: 2-0 Referee:
Cowlairs: Duff, McCartney, McLeod, Masterton, Buist, Elliott, Weir, Shanks, McPherson, Lyall, McEwan
Third Lanark: Downie, Thomson, Smith, Love, Campbell, Scott, Faulds, Wilson, Lapsley, Johnstone, Burns
St.MIRREN 3 HEART
of MIDLOTHIAN 2 4,500
Douglas,Dunlop,Morrison Scott,Ross
Half time: 0-1 Referee: Mr J. Cameron (Rangers)
St.Mirren: Cameron, A. McBain, McFarlane, McCartney, Brown, E. McBain, Morrison, Wylie, McPhee, Dunlop, Douglas
Heart of Midlothian: Fairbairn, Adams, Goodfellow, Thomson, Waterston, Stirling, Taylor, Greig, Russell, Ross, Scott
League Table
|
|
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
Pts |
GA |
|
1. |
Dumbarton |
15 |
11 |
3 |
1 |
51 |
15 |
25 |
3.400 |
|
2. |
Rangers |
15 |
11 |
3 |
1 |
49 |
20 |
25 |
2.450 |
|
3. |
Cambuslang |
15 |
7 |
3 |
5 |
43 |
39 |
17 |
1.103 |
|
4. |
Celtic |
13 |
7 |
2 |
4 |
29 |
18 |
12* |
1.611 |
|
5. |
Heart of Midlothian |
13 |
5 |
2 |
6 |
27 |
12 |
12 |
1.125 |
|
6. |
St.Mirren |
16 |
5 |
1 |
10 |
35 |
54 |
11 |
0.648 |
|
7. |
Abercorn |
15 |
4 |
2 |
9 |
34 |
43 |
10 |
0.791 |
|
8. |
Third Lanark |
12 |
4 |
2 |
6 |
25 |
32 |
10 |
0.781 |
|
9. |
Vale of Leven |
14 |
4 |
1 |
9 |
21 |
49 |
9 |
0.429 |
|
10. |
Cowlairs |
14 |
2 |
3 |
9 |
19 |
39 |
3* |
0.487 |
* Celtic and Cowlairs both deducted 4 points for fielding ineligible players
Dumbarton’s ambitions to win the League encounter a setback as they suffer their first league defeat of the season, going down 1-0 to Celtic. Abercorn and Cambuslang share 9 goals and Third Lanark still cannot win.
Abercorn started smartly against a Cambuslang team who have been showing good form and Bonnar put the visitors ahead after 15 minutes. This was followed up a minute later with Nicol getting Abercorn’s second. Bowie grabbed a third then McLaren made it 4-0 before half an hour had been played. Cambuslang managed to rouse themselves and pulled a goal back through Buchanan just before half time. The second half saw Cambuslang fight back and first Brown then Maxwell reduced the deficit to one. However Abercorn ended the home teams hopes of turning the game around when Buchanan put them 5-3 ahead. Just before the end Maxwell scored for Cambuslang and the game ended 5-4.
It was a hard fought match at Celtic Park with Celtic starting the best but they failed to take any chances that fell to them. Dumbarton then retaliated but they too failed to capitalise on any chances created. The game swung back Celtic’s way and they took the lead after 25 minutes through McMahon. Dumbarton again put Celtic under pressure but at half time Celtic held a one goal lead. The Second half was just as closely contested as the first and both defences held firm. There was no further scoring and the game ended 1-0 to Celtic.
Third Lanark kicked off against the wind against Cowlairs at Springvale Park and found themselves 1-0 down after 20 minutes when Shanks scored for the home team. Third Lanark immediately fought back but the Cowlairs defence held firm. On 44 minutes Cowlairs increased their lead when McEwan scored from a corner. In the second half Third Lanark had the wind in their favour and put Cowlairs on the back foot. On 65 minutes the Warriors pulled one back from a scrimmage and 5 minutes later another scrimmage, as a result of a corner, saw them equalise. Both teams tried to gain a winning goal in the remaining 20 minutes, but to no avail.
Hearts began the game with the wind in their favour and although play was fairly even, Cameron the St.Mirren ‘keeper was the busier. After 25 minutes Scott fired Hearts into the lead. St.Mirren retaliated and now Fairbairn hard to work hard to keep them out. The first half ended with Hearts holding on to their slender lead. In the second half, St.Mirren attacked Hearts relentlessly and were rewarded on 50 minutes when Douglas equalised. A minute later Dunlop put the visitors 2-1 ahead but Hearts fought back and Ross equalised on 65 minutes. Both teams went all out for a winning goal and it fell to St.Mirren when Morrison scored on 80 minutes.
GLASGOW MERCHANTS’ CHARITY CUP, SEMI FINAL
NORTHERN 3 AIRDRIEONIANS 1 1,400
Half time: 0-0 Referee:
Hampden Park, Glasgow
ORDINARY MATCHES
(SELECTED)
CLYDE 4 PORT GLASGOW ATH. 0
Half time: 3-0 Referee:
Barrowfield Park, Glasgow
NOTTINGHAM FOREST 3 RANGERS 0 3,000
Half time: 1-0 Referee:
Town Ground, Nottingham
VALE of LEVEN 4 79TH CAMERON HIGHLANDERS 0
Half time: 3-0 Referee:
Millburn Park, Alexandria
Monday, 13th
April 1891
LEAGUE FIXTURES ROUND 28
HEART of MIDLOTHIAN P DUMBARTON P
Match
postponed. Both clubs agreed to move the fixture to the following Monday.
ORDINARY MATCHES (SELECTED)
CELTIC 5 BLACKBURN ROVERS 5 14,000
Half time: 3-2 Referee:
Celtic Park, Glasgow
EVERTON 1 QUEEN’S
PARK 1 7,000
Half time: 0-0 Referee:
Anfield Park, Liverpool
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 3 RANGERS 3 2,000
Half time: 0-2 Referee:
Olive Grove, Sheffield
THIRD LANARK 1 WOLVERHAMPTON W. 3 3,000
Half time: 1-2 Referee:
Cathkin Park, Glasgow
THISTLE 1 OUR
BOYS (DUNDEE) 5 1,000
Half time: 1-3 Referee:
Beechwood Park, Glasgow
Wednesday, 15th
April 1891
MEETING OF THE SCOTTISH LEAGUE
At a meeting of the League committee it was agreed that Celtic, Dumbarton, Rangers and Third Lanark would place their services at the disposal of the Glasgow Merchants’ Charity Committee to play a supplementary competition to be played in May. The three Glasgow clubs would also offer their grounds free of charge and that the competition would be under control of the charity committee. It was further agreed that if the offer was refused a charity competition would be carried out under the auspices of the Scottish League.
Dumbarton protested the result of the game between themselves and Celtic. They claimed that a “goal" scored by Bell was wrongly ruled offside by the referee. The protest was unanimously dismissed. Celtic had won the game 1-0.
It was confirmed that the current suspension of the 6 league players, those who took part in the International Trial matches against the League’s ruling, would continue.
Friday, 17th April 1891
LEAGUE CLUBS CHARITY COMPETITION
The League clubs offer to the Glasgow Merchant’s Charity Committee was rejected so representatives of Celtic, Dumbarton, Rangers and Third Lanark called a meeting under the chairmanship of Bailie Simons to make arrangements for their own alternative charity cup competition. Bailie Simons summed up the reasons for the competition: - “We wish it to be understood that this is in no sense a rival organisation to that which has so long been in existence, and which has done such noble work for our charities. We are in no sense connected with what is called the League, but are met here simply to give expression to the strong desire on the part of the four clubs represented to do what they can to assist the deserving institutions in our midst.”
It was made clear that the entire proceeds are to be handed over to the poor and therefore the clubs have subscribed £10 each for the purpose of badges to the winning team and to the meeting of other incidental expenses. This is in contrast to the Glasgow Merchants’ Charity Cup whereby such expenses are deducted from the drawings. In addition, the grounds used would be free of charge.
The draw for the competition was made as follows: -
16th May 1891, Rangers v Dumbarton, at Celtic Park.
23rd May 1891,
Third Lanark v Celtic, at Ibrox Park.
30th May 1891,
Final at Cathkin Park.
SFA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – PROPOSED MOTIONS
The SFA issued the agenda of motions up for discussion at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. Unless otherwise stated, the motions below were proposed by the SFA.
General
New Rule: - That the General Committee shall have the power to appoint a sub-committee or sub-committees from their own number, and a minute by them delegating “full powers” to such sub-committee shall be held to invest such sub-committee with the whole rights and powers exercisable by the General Committee.
New Rule: - That in the interval between the date of the annual meeting of the Association and the date of the first meeting of the General Committee the office – bearers ex officio shall be deemed a sub-committee vested with full powers.
New Rule: - That all decisions or findings to be pronounced by the Association at any annual or special meeting, and all decisions and findings of the General Committee, shall be final and binding and conclusive upon any affiliated association club, player, official, or member; and specially (but without prejudice to the foresaid generality), that no such decision or finding shall be subject to review by any Court of Law upon any ground whatever; and every association and club, by making payment of their annual subscription to the funds of the Association, shall thereby be held ex contractu to have passed from and abandoned any ground of appeal to such Courts for redressagainst any such decision or finding; and all clubs in any way connected with such affiliated association , or contributing to the funds of such association, or in any way subject to its jurisdiction, shall by its connection therewith be also deemed ex contractu to have abandoned any redress from legal tribunals; and all players, officials, and members of such clubs shall likewise be deemed to be debarred ex contractu from resort to legal proceedings for redress against such decision or finding.
New Rule: - That any decision or finding pronounced by the sub-committee appointed under Rule… shall be appealable to the General Committee, provided that within three days from the date thereof the secretary of any affiliated association, or club, or player, official, or member respectively affected thereby, notify in writing by registered post letter, addressed to the secretary of the Association, their, or his, intention to appeal, and stating the grounds of such appeal. The secretary shall, on receipt of such notification, forthwith convene a meeting of the General Committee, to be held within one month from the date of such notificaion, and shall, at least three days before the meeting so convened is held, give intimation to the party notifying the appeal, at the address given in the notification, of the place, date and hour fixed for such meeting. Such meeting shall be held at the date, place, and hour so fixed, and if the secretary of the association or club, player, official, or member affected by the decision or finding of such sub-committee appear in support of the appeal, the meeting shall forthwith proceed to hear and determine the same, and, should they not appear, the meeting shall dismiss the appeal. In the event of no appeal being intimated, the decision or finding of the sub-committee shall become final, and shall be entitled to the same exemption from review as a decision or finding of the General Committee. Every appeal under this rule must be accompanied by a deposit of £2, which will be forfeited to the Association if such appeal fails.
New Rule: - That the Association take jurisdiction over all friendly fixtures of clubs connected with it, and no organisation other than the Association can interfere therewith. That no organisation excepting affiliated associations can institute competitions without submitting their rules and having the permission of the SFA. Charity competitions shall be excluded from this rule. Clubs wishing a series of matches can apply, stating terms, conditions, to the committee of the Association, who will appoint a sub-committee to arrange for and conduct the same.
New Rule (By Celtic FC): - No matches shall be played between May 31st and August 1st of each year without the consent of the Committee. This does not apply to competitions limited to five or less players on each side.
New Rule (By Celtic FC): - That on a reqisition, signed by twenty clubs, a special general meeting be called, each requisition to state the business of the meeting, and to be lodged with the secretary twenrty-one days before the date of the meeting.
New Rule (By Ayrshire Association): - That the third-class railway fares of representatives on the Committee be defrayed by the Association.
New Rule (By Partick Thistle FC): - That in the event of any club failing to fulfil their fixture, or giving seven days’ notice of their inability to carry out such fixtures, they be held responsible for half of all expenses incurred by ground team, and that they be compelled by the Association to pay same within fourteen days from date of non-fulfilment of fixture.
Amendments to General Rules
Rule 6 (By Renfrewshire Association): - To add to the sentence reading “Clubs cannot be members of more than one affiliated Association” the following: - “And no member shall be eligible to act on Committee whose club elects to play in any other district than that to which it is properly affiliated.”
Rule 6 (By Ayshire Association): - After the word “district” (immediately receeding last clause), the following be added: - “Clubs shall only have power to elect the representatives in their own county or district.”
Rule 11, Sub-Section (e) (By Third Lanark FC): - After the words “without the permission of the SFA” to add “such permission not to be granted for cup ties unless the player has been resident in Scotland not less than fourteen days prior to the match.”
Rule 11, Clause (f) (By Harp FC): - To read: - That all players who may have been registered for English clubs, but who have not played for any club, and staying in Scotland prior to September 1st, 1890, shall be exempted from this rule.”
Rule 12 (By Aberdeen FC): -
To read: - That the Committee shall have power to deal summarily with
affiliated associations. Clubs, or players who misconduct themselves.”
Cup Competition Rules – New
New Rule (By Rangers FC): - When there is reasonable apprehension of the ground, through frost, snow, or other causes, being found unplayable, it shall be incumbent on the referee to inspect the ground and give a decision at least two hours before the time set for the kick-off. If, owing to distance, or through other reason, the referee find this to be impractable, the secretary of the Association, on receiving notice that to that effect, shall have power to substitute another referee to decide the point of playability.
New Rule (By Ayrshire Association): - No player shall be eligible to take part in any cup competition who has not resided in the county or district of the club for which he competes at least three months immediately preceeding date of tie, unless by special permission of the county or district association under whose jurisdiction said player competed the previous season. Note – In the event of a player removing to another county or district and wishing to play for one of its clubs, he shall apply for permission to the county or district association under whose jurisdiction be competedthe previous season, who shall send intimation of said application to the club for which he played. Should the club have sufficient evidence to prove that the player has been induced to leave his county or district through promises of illegitimate remuneration from any football club or agent acting under their authority, they shall lodge information with the secretary of their association, within ten days from date of official intimation, and also send copy of same to the player, who shall have an opportunity of appearing in defence. All permits granted to players must be registered with the Scottish Football Association.
Cup Competition Rules – Amendments
Rule 8 (By Dumbarton FC): - To delete rule, and substitute the following: - “That the competition for the Cup shall be divided into two parts - a preliminary and final stage. The Committee shall select sixteen clubs, composed of the semi-finalists of the preceding season and twelve other clubs they consider to be next in merit, and these shall be exempted from the preliminary stage of the competition, should they so desire. The names of clubs competing in the preliminary stage shall be placed by the committee in one lot, or in lots, according to their districts, and shall be drawn from such lot, or lots, in couples at a time. The couples shall compete with each other, and the names of the winning clubs shall be placed in a lot or lots, drawn in couples, and compete as in the first tie, and so on, until the number of clubs is reduced to sixteen. These, with the sixteen clubs selected for exemption from the preliminary stage shall compete in the final stage of the competition – the names being placed in one lot, and drawn as in the preliminary stage, until the final tieis played, when the winning club shall hold the Cupfor the current year. Should any of the sixteen selected clubs elect to take part in the preliminary stage, the number of clubs left from the preliminary stage shall be increased, so that the number of clubs remaining to compete in the final stage shall always be thirty-two.”
Rule 10 (By Celtic FC): - To add: - “In the first four rounds of the competition in any match which results in a draw an extra half-hour shall be played.”
Rule 10 (By Arbroath FC): - After the word “ground”, add “excepting the distance between the clubs drawn together is over 100 miles such tie shall be played on neutral ground at about equal distance from one another to be mutually agreed upon. Clubs failing to agree, the Association shall fix the ground.”
Rule 11 (By Third Lanark FC): - After the words “clubs drawing twice” to read “ and not mutually agreeing as to ground, must play off their tie on neutral ground selected by the Committee, and play an extra half-hour in the event of a draw.”
Rule 15 (By Third Lanark FC): - To read as follows: - “The referee shall not belong to either of the competeing clubs, and after the third round shall not be a member of any club still in the competition. Clubs may agree on the appointment of a referee in all but the semi-final and final ties, when he shall be appointed by the committee; but should clubs not be able to agree in the appointment of a referee, they shall apply to the secretary of the Association. Umpires shall be appointed inall ties by the competing clubs unless where, on account of rough play or misconduct on the part of players or spectators, the committee deem it necessary to appoint neutral umpires. The expenses of such officials shall be defrayed by the competing clubs.”
Rule 18 (By Celtic FC): - To add: - “ A protest lodged by one club cannot be withdrawn without the consent of the other club. Should the latter refuse to allow the withdrawal and lodge intimation as above, it shall then be considered and decided on in the usual way.”
Rule 23 (By Ayrshire Association): - Be deleted, and the following substituted: - “The gross admission money drawn at all cup ties shall be divided between contending clubs, the visiting team having power to supply consecutively numbered check rolls and collect same, except in the final tie, when the Association shall receive one-third of the nett drawings.”
Laws of the Game – Rule Amendment
Rule 4 (By Annbank FC): - That whenever a ball is fisted out by other than the goalkeeper, a goal be allowed to the club who suffer by the act.
Resolutions
By Celtic FC: - That a special committee be appointed by this meeting to prepare a revised constitution and rules of the Association to be submitted for adoption to a special general meeting called for that purpose.
By Aberdeen FC: - That the first round of Scottish Cup competition be postponed from first to last Saturday in September.
By Dumbarton FC: - To call attention to the present state of football in Scotland and to move the appointment of a committee to inquire into the matter, and to report to a special general meeting of the Association to be called within one month from the date of the annual general meeting.
There can be no doubt that the motions put forward by the SFA will be the ones to attract the most debate. As well as attempting to strengthen their authority over all football matters there is also an attempt to prevent any party who feels wronged seeking redress in law.
The tightening of control over football matches is a blatant attempt to take over the running of league football. It is clear they see football organised on such a basis as a threat to their power and with the addition of other leagues, a weakening of their status. In football matters the SFA are after power absolute and the decisions by the Court of Session regarding the Renton FC demonstrated that is not the case. If the proposed motions are adopted at the annual general meeting then they can do more or less what they want with complete impunity.
Probably the two most important proposals put forward by the clubs was that of Dumbarton and Annbank. Dumbarton once again pushed for a preliminary cup arrangement. This proposal failed last year but it is hoped more support can be gained this year. Annbank called for a change in the laws so that deliberate handball on the line was punished more severely than just a free kick.
Dumbarton also called for a total review of Scottish football.
Saturday, 18th April 1891
LEAGUE
FIXTURES ROUND 29
CELTIC P ABERCORN P
Match postponed. Both clubs had prior commitments before the League fixture was arranged.
COWLAIRS 1 CAMBUSLANG 2 2,000
Weir Muir
Half time: 1-1 Referee: Mr F. Watt (Edinburgh)
Cowlairs: Duff, McCartney, McLeod, McPherson, Buist, Elliott, McEwan, Lyall, Shanks, Weir, Henderson
Cambuslang: Ross, Smith, Collins, Russell, Jamieson, Guy, Low, Buchanan, Maxwell, Gourlay, Muir
THIRD LANARK 4 HEART of MIDLOTHIAN 0 3,000
Wilson,Johnstone,Untraced(2)
Half time: 2-0 Referee:
Third Lanark: Downie, A. Thomson, Smith, Lapsley, Scott, Munn, Burns, Wilson, Johnstone, McInnes, McColl
Heart of Midlothian: Fairbairn, Adams, Goodfellow, Hastie, Waterston, Stirling, Mason, Taylor, Russell, Ross, Scott
League Table
|
|
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
Pts |
GA |
|
1. |
Dumbarton |
15 |
11 |
3 |
1 |
51 |
15 |
25 |
3.400 |
|
2. |
Rangers |
15 |
11 |
3 |
1 |
49 |
20 |
25 |
2.450 |
|
3. |
Cambuslang |
16 |
7 |
4 |
5 |
44 |
40 |
18 |
1.100 |
|
4. |
Celtic |
13 |
7 |
2 |
4 |
29 |
18 |
12* |
1.611 |
|
5. |
Heart of Midlothian |
14 |
5 |
2 |
7 |
27 |
28 |
12 |
0.964 |
|
6. |
Third Lanark |
13 |
5 |
2 |
6 |
29 |
32 |
12 |
0.906 |
|
7. |
St.Mirren |
16 |
5 |
1 |
10 |
35 |
54 |
11 |
0.648 |
|
8. |
Abercorn |
15 |
4 |
2 |
9 |
34 |
43 |
10 |
0.791 |
|
9. |
Vale of Leven |
14 |
4 |
1 |
9 |
21 |
49 |
9 |
0.429 |
|
10. |
Cowlairs |
15 |
2 |
4 |
9 |
20 |
40 |
4* |
0.500 |
* Celtic and Cowlairs both deducted 4 points for fielding ineligible players
After going 7 league matches without a win, Third Lanark defeat Hearts.
Cambuslang made a strong opening against Cowlairs but the home team gradually eased into the game. Play then became end to end and on 20 minutes Weir opened the scoring to put Cowlairs 1-0 up. Both teams were playing well with the Springburn men just edging it. On 35 minutes, however, Cambuslang made the breakthrough and Muir equalised. The second half was a repeat of the first but neither side could gain the winning goal.
Third Lanark started the match with 10 men but the latecomer, Munn, soon made an appearance. Despite initially being a man short Third Lanark started the stronger and Wilson put the Warriors 1-0 up after 10 minutes. Johnstone then added a second as the first half drew to a close. In the second half Third Lanark had the best of play against a poor Hearts team and two more goals were scored from scrimmages, one after 46 minutes and the other on 70 minutes. The game then turned extremely bad tempered and on 75 minutes Lapsley of Third Lanark was sent off for violent play.
GLASGOW MERCHANTS’ CHARITY CUP, SEMI FINAL
QUEEN’S PARK 2 PARTICK THISTLE 1 2,000
Half time: 2-1 Referee:
Hampden Park, Glasgow
ORDINARY MATCHES
(SELECTED)
AYR 5 VALE of LEVEN 1
Half time: 4-0 Referee:
Somerset Park, Ayr
CELTIC 2 BOLTON
WANDERERS 0 12,000
Half time: 0-0 Referee:
Celtic Park, Glasgow
MORTON 2 ABERCORN 1
Half time: 1-0 Referee:
Cappielow Park, Greenock
ROYAL ALBERT 3 CLYDE 3
Half time: 1-3 Referee:
Raploch Park, Larkhall
Monday, 20th
April 1891
REARRANGED LEAGUE FIXTURE
HEART of MIDLOTHIAN 0 DUMBARTON 4 10,000
Bell(2),Taylor,Galbraith
Half time: 0-1 Referee: Mr Young (Clyde)
Heart of Midlothian: Fairbairn, Adams, Goodfellow, Waterston, Hastie, Stirling, Taylor, F. Scott, Russell, Ross
Dumbarton: McLeod, Watson, Miller, Laing, Boyle, Keir, Taylor, Galbraith, Wilson, McNaught, Bell
League Table
|
|
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
Pts |
GA |
|
1. |
Dumbarton |
16 |
12 |
3 |
1 |
55 |
15 |
25 |
3.667 |
|
2. |
Rangers |
15 |
11 |
3 |
1 |
49 |
20 |
25 |
2.450 |
|
3. |
Cambuslang |
16 |
7 |
4 |
5 |
44 |
40 |
18 |
1.100 |
|
4. |
Celtic |
13 |
7 |
2 |
4 |
29 |
18 |
12* |
1.611 |
|
5. |
Third Lanark |
13 |
5 |
2 |
6 |
29 |
32 |
12 |
0.906 |
|
6. |
Heart of Midlothian |
15 |
5 |
2 |
8 |
27 |
32 |
12 |
0.844 |
|
7. |
St.Mirren |
16 |
5 |
1 |
10 |
35 |
54 |
11 |
0.648 |
|
8. |
Abercorn |
15 |
4 |
2 |
9 |
34 |
43 |
10 |
0.791 |
|
9. |
Vale of Leven |
14 |
4 |
1 |
9 |
21 |
49 |
9 |
0.429 |
|
10. |
Cowlairs |
15 |
2 |
4 |
9 |
20 |
40 |
4* |
0.500 |
* Celtic and Cowlairs both deducted 4 points for fielding ineligible players
Dumbarton go 2 points clear again at the top of the table with an emphatic win over cup holders Hearts at Tynecastle. Dumbarton created a number of chances early on but were unable to get past a stout Hearts defence. On 40 minutes Dumbarton finally made their dominance count when Bell scored with a fine shot. Early in the second half Bell scored again and Dumbarton were on easy street. Throughout the half McLeod in the Dumbarton goal was a virtual spectator and it was no surprise when Taylor made it 3-0 and Galbraith added a 4th.
MEETING OF THE GLASGOW FA
A general meeting of the Glasgow Football Association was called to discuss which motions to support at the forthcoming Scottish Football Association Annual General Meeting. Several hours were spent discussing the SFA’s motion taking jurisdiction over all fixtures. The delegates clearly recognised the SFA were taking aim at the Scottish League, the Alliance, and similar other bodies. Mr Sliman called for the Glasgow FA to support the motion and was seconded by Mr Gilchrist. It was agreed to support the motion.
On Dumbarton’s motion for a preliminary cup competion only Third Lanark FC supported the motion and the unanimous opinion of the others was against. It was therefore decided to oppose it. Dumbarton’s call for a review of Scottish football was given a neutral response so it was agreed to give the representatives a free hand in the matter. Messrs Sliman (Battlefield) and Geake (Queen’s Park) were appointed representatives to the annual general meeting of the SFA.
Tuesday, 21st April 1891
ORDINARY MATCH
CELTIC 4 PRESTON
NORTH END 0 5,500
Half time: 1-0 Referee:
Celtic Park, Glasgow
RENTON FC TO BE
REINSTATED?
The SFA called a special meeting of the General Committee that was preceded by a meeting of the Business & Professional Committee. It was understood that the Renton case was under discussion and there was much speculation that the Business & Professional Committee would recommend to the General Committee a compromise heavily in favour to the club. It was also anticipated that the General Committee would fully endorse the recommendation.
Unfortunately both meetings were held in private and the press were kept waiting for a considerable time awaiting the official outcome. Eventually a spokesman emerged to inform the reporters that the General Committee did not look with favour upon the recommendations of the Business & Professional Committee and that no final decision likely to be arrived at that night. It had been agreed that any member of the committee who gave any information to the press would be considered to have committed a grave breach of confidence.
Thursday, 23rd April 1891
RENTON FC REINSTATED
An out of court settlement between Renton Football Club and the Scottish Football Association has now been agreed. The SFA had expelled back in September 1890 for alleged professionalism and having been deprived of putting their case to the SFA and having no access to any appeal process, Renton took their case to law. Having lost twice in the Court of Session, the SFA were staring at a third and final defeat and so negotiated a compromise in order to safe face and retain some dignity.
The agreement was negotiated between Mr Angus Campbell, agent for Renton FC, and Mr J. M. Campbell, agent for the SFA. Mr A Campbell’s terms were payment of costs on both sides, the reinstatement of Renton FC to the status they formerly occupied as a club in the SFA, and the payment of a sum of £80 (around £10,500 today) to cover loss on grandstand and ground losses. Mr J. M. Campbell objected to the latter term but accepted the others, Mr A. Campbell agreed and the compromise was reached.
For Renton FC this was this was a great outcome. Their real intent was to secure reinstatement so that they could resume playing football and having their costs paid for the legal challenge was a real bonus. For the SFA this was an expensive lesson, they acted like a despotic dictatorship and paid the price. It was estimated that the cost of the action would be around £500 (£65,000).
Friday, 24th April 1891
MEETING OF RENTON FC
Club members were summoned to a hastily arranged meeting to hear the verdict of their action against the SFA – Renton had been reinstated. After the inevitable congratulations and back slapping the members got down to the business of reviving the club. It was anticipated that most, if not all, the players would return including those who had left for England and turned professional. It was hoped that given the circumstances amnesty would be granted to those players returning from England.
A series of practice matches was quickly arranged and it was hoped a challenge match could be arranged as soon as possible.
Saturday, 25th April 1891
LEAGUE
FIXTURES ROUND 30
ABERCORN 1 HEART of MIDLOTHIAN 0 4,000
Nicol
Half time: 1-0 Referee: Mr Ferguson (Lanarkshire FA)
Abercorn: Fleming, A. Cuthbertson, D. Cuthbertson, Johnstone, Bowie, Reid, Wilson, Nicol, Buchanan, McLaren, Bonnar
Heart of Midlothian: Fairbairn, Adams, Goodfellow, Hastie, Mason, Stirling, Taylor, Greig, Russell, Ross, Scott
CELTIC 1 THIRD LANARK 2 10,000
Untraced Burns
Half time: 1-1 Referee:
Celtic: Bell, Reynolds, McKeown, Gallagher, Kelly, Maley, Madden, McGhee, Dowds, McMahon, Campbell
Third Lanark: Downie, A. Thomson, Smith, Sawers, Lapsley, Scott, Burns, Wilson, Johnstone, Wills, McInnes
COWLAIRS 4 St.MIRREN 2 2,000
Untraced,Henderson,Shanks,McEwan Douglas,Untraced
Half time: 2-0 Referee:
Cowlairs: Duff, McLeod, McCartney, Masterton, Buist, Elliott, McEwan, Lyall, Shanks, McPherson, Henderson
St.Mirren: Cameron, A. McBain, McFarlane, McCartney, Brown, E. McBain, Morrison, McAuley, Wylie, Dunlop, Douglas
RANGERS 4 DUMBARTON 2 12,000
McCreadie,Untraced,Kerr,McPherson Bell(2)
Half time: 3-0 Referee: Mr Watt
Rangers: Reid, Hodge, Gow, Marshall, McCreadie, Mitchell, Hislop, Henderson, Kerr, Wilson, McPherson
Dumbarton: McLeod, Watson, Miller, McMillan, Boyle, Keir, Taylor, Galbraith, Bell, Wilson, McNaught
VALE of LEVEN 2 CAMBUSLANG 1 1,500
T. Graham(2) Buchanan
Half time: 0-0 Referee:
Vale of Leven: Doherty, Smith, Sharp, Cornoch, McNicol, W. Graham, McVean, Cowan, Rice, Mills, T. Graham
Cambuslang: Ross, Smith, Collins, Russell, Jamieson, Ramsay, Low, Buchanan, Maxwell, Brown, Gourlay
League Table
|
|
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
Pts |
GA |
|
1. |
Dumbarton |
17 |
12 |
3 |
2 |
57 |
19 |
27 |
3.000 |
|
2. |
Rangers |
16 |
12 |
3 |
1 |
53 |
22 |
27 |
2.409 |
|
3. |
Cambuslang |
17 |
7 |
4 |
6 |
45 |
42 |
18 |
1.071 |
|
4. |
Celtic |
14 |
7 |
3 |
4 |
30 |
19 |
13* |
1.579 |
|
5. |
Third Lanark |
14 |
5 |
3 |
6 |
30 |
33 |
13 |
0.909 |
|
6. |
Heart of Midlothian |
16 |
5 |
2 |
9 |
27 |
33 |
12 |
0.818 |
|
7. |
Abercorn |
16 |
5 |
2 |
9 |
35 |
43 |
12 |
0.814 |
|
8. |
St.Mirren |
17 |
5 |
1 |
11 |
37 |
58 |
11 |
0.638 |
|
9. |
Vale of Leven |
14 |
5 |
1 |
9 |
23 |
50 |
11 |
0.460 |
|
10. |
Cowlairs |
16 |
3 |
4 |
9 |
24 |
42 |
6* |
0.571 |
* Celtic and Cowlairs both deducted 4 points for fielding ineligible players
Rangers defeat of Dumbarton saw them now become firm favorites to win the first Scottish League. Dumbarton have only one game left so the maximum points total they can secure is 29. Rangers, on the other hand, have two games left giving them a potential points total of 31.
Abercorn took advantage of the fact that Hearts started a man short and took the lead after just 5 minutes but they could not increase their lead before Stirling arrived to take his place on the half hour mark. From this point on Hearts performed better but Abercorn’s defence was resilient and the game ended 1-0 to the Paisley men.
Both teams started well at Celtic Park and Third Lanark had the first clear cut chance when Johnstone missed an open goal. Celtic took the lead mid way through the first half as a result of a scrimmage but just before half time Burns levelled for Third Lanark. End-to-end play in the second half failed to produce further scoring and the game ended in a draw, 1-1.
St.Mirren kicked off at Springvale against the wind and found themselves under pressure from Cowlairs. Scoring after just 5 minutes, Cowlairs took complete control of the match. Henderson made it 2-0 after 28 minutes then Shanks followed up with a third on 42 minutes. A minute before half time Mcewan made it 4-0. With the wind now in their favour, St.Mirren had a better second half and Douglas gave them hope when he pulled a goal back just after the restart. Cowlairs were defensively good and it took until the 85th minute before St.Mirren could get another goal.
Rangers elected to play with the wind in their favour in the first half and this proved to be the correct decision. Rangers were rampant from the start and McCreadie gave them the lead after 3 minutes. Dumbarton were pinned in their own half and had to rely on the occasional break but after 15 minutes Rangers scored a second goal. Dumbarton slowly got more of the game but seemed too anxious in front of goal. On 35 minutes Kerr headed Rangers third goal and at half time Rangers led 3-0. In the second half Dumbarton now had the wind behind them and Bell missed a great chance to score just after the re-start. On 65 minutes McPherson scored Rangers’ fourth goal but 5 minutes later Bell pulled one back to give Dumbarton some hope. Dumbarton made every effort to score and Bell scored again shortly after following a mistake in the Rangers defence. Thereafter the Rangers defence held firm and the game ended 4-2 in their favour.
In the match between Vale of Leven and Cambuslang, the first half was very poor. In the second half Buchanan put Cambuslang 1-0 up following slack play by the Vale. The goal improved the play of both teams especially that of Vale. Tommy Graham soon equalised and in the final minute he scored again to give Vale of Leven a 2-1 win.
GLASGOW MERCHANTS’ CHARITY CUP, FINAL
QUEEN’S PARK 1 NORTHERN 1 2,000
Half time: 0-0 Referee:
Hampden Park, Glasgow
Queen’s Park were
surprisingly held to a draw in front of a disappointingly low crowd.
ORDINARY MATCHES (SELECTED)
CLYDE 2 NEWMILNS 1
Half time: 1-0 Referee:
Barrowfield Park, Glasgow
KILBIRNIE 4 PARTICK
THISTLE 1
Half time: 3-0 Referee: Mr Peddie (Beith)
Parkfoot Park, Kilbirnie
THISTLE 4 AYR 3
Half time: 4-2 Referee:
Beechwood Park, Glasgow
Tuesday, 28th April 1891
LEAGUE FIXTURES ROUND 31
THIRD LANARK 2 ABERCORN 1 2,000
Wills,McInnes Untraced
Half time: 0-0 Referee: Mr Reynolds (Celtic)
Third Lanark: Downie, Leiper, Smith, Sawers, Lapsley, Scott, Burns, Wilson, Wills, Johnstone, McInnes
Abercorn: Fleming, A. Cuthbertson, D. Cuthbertson, Johnstone, Bowie, Reid, Wallace, Nicol, Buchanan, McLaren, Bonnar
League Table
|
|
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
Pts |
GA |
|
1. |
Dumbarton |
17 |
12 |
3 |
2 |
57 |
19 |
27 |
3.000 |
|
2. |
Rangers |
16 |
12 |
3 |
1 |
53 |
22 |
27 |
2.409 |
|
3. |
Cambuslang |
17 |
7 |
4 |
6 |
45 |
42 |
18 |
1.071 |
|
4. |
Third Lanark |
15 |
6 |
3 |
6 |
32 |
34 |
15 |
0.941 |
|
5. |
Celtic |
14 |
7 |
3 |
4 |
30 |
19 |
13* |
1.579 |
|
6. |
Heart of Midlothian |
16 |
5 |
2 |
9 |
27 |
33 |
12 |
0.818 |
|
7. |
Abercorn |
17 |
5 |
2 |
10 |
36 |
45 |
12 |
0.800 |
|
8. |
St.Mirren |
17 |
5 |
1 |
11 |
37 |
58 |
11 |
0.638 |
|
9. |
Vale of Leven |
14 |
5 |
1 |
9 |
23 |
50 |
11 |
0.460 |
|
10. |
Cowlairs |
16 |
3 |
4 |
9 |
24 |
42 |
6* |
0.571 |
* Celtic and Cowlairs both deducted 4 points for fielding ineligible players
Abercorn were first to show in attack but Third Lanark repelled them and pressed back. As the half progressed Third Lanark took more control. Play then raged end to end but when half time was called there was no scoring. Abercorn almost scored from the restart which saw them on top for a spell. A Third Lanark breakaway saw Wills score to put the Warriors 1-0 up. This now put Thirds in control and after two goal bound efforts hit the posts McInnes grabbed the second goal. Abercorn fought back strongly and 10 minutes from time were rewarded with a goal from a scrimmage.
Wednesday, 29th April 1891
LEAGUE FIXTURES ROUND 32
COWLAIRS 0 CELTIC 5 2,500
Dowds,M.Dunbar,Untraced(3)
Half time: 0-2 Referee:
Cowlairs: Duff, McCartney, McLeod, Masterton, Buist, Elliott, McEwan, Lyall, Shanks, Henderson, McPherson
Celtic: Dolan, Reynolds, McKeown, McGhee, T. Dunbar, Kyle, M. Dunbar, Cunningham, Dowds, McMahon, Campbell
League Table
|
|
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
Pts |
GA |
|
1. |
Dumbarton |
17 |
12 |
3 |
2 |
57 |
19 |
27 |
3.000 |
|
2. |
Rangers |
16 |
12 |
3 |
1 |
53 |
22 |
27 |
2.409 |
|
3. |
Cambuslang |
17 |
7 |
4 |
6 |
45 |
42 |
18 |
1.071 |
|
4. |
Celtic |
15 |
8 |
3 |
4 |
35 |
19 |
15* |
1.842 |
|
5. |
Third Lanark |
15 |
6 |
3 |
6 |
32 |
34 |
15 |
0.941 |
|
6. |
Heart of Midlothian |
16 |
5 |
2 |
9 |
27 |
33 |
12 |
0.818 |
|
7. |
Abercorn |
17 |
5 |
2 |
10 |
36 |
45 |
12 |
0.800 |
|
8. |
St.Mirren |
17 |
5 |
1 |
11 |
37 |
58 |
11 |
0.638 |
|
9. |
Vale of Leven |
14 |
5 |
1 |
9 |
23 |
50 |
11 |
0.460 |
|
10. |
Cowlairs |
17 |
3 |
4 |
10 |
24 |
42 |
6* |
0.511 |
* Celtic and Cowlairs both deducted 4 points for fielding ineligible players
A much-changed Celtic travelled to Springburn to play a improving Cowlairs. However disappointingly for the home support, Cowlairs showed little resistance and Celtic had an easy 5-0 win. Dowds opened the scoring on 20 minutes and this was followed up by a further goal by Mick Dunbar. In the second half Celtic dominated and scored a further 3 goals.
ROSEBERRY CHARITY CUP COMMITTEE MEETING
The committee resolved that
the outstanding semi final tie between Heart of Midlothian and Mossend Swifts
should now be played on Saturday, 2nd May 1891 at Logie Green. Mr
Sneddon would be the referee. This decision appeared to ignore the fact that
Heart of Midlothian were committed to play a league match on the same day.
The date for the final tie was not fixed.
EASTERN ALLIANCE LEAGUE PROPOSED
Following the proposed set up of the Scottish Alliance, Federation, Northern and Midland leagues, representatives of the East of Scotland met in Bathgate to discuss the setting up of an Eastern Alliance League. The clubs represented were Armadale, Bathgate Rovers, Bo’ness, Broxburn, Leith Hibernian and Mossend Swifts. Mr W. McLeod, who presided, said the slackness in football matters in the district made it imperative that they should form a combination. He believed the clubs could work in harmony with the East of Scotland FA and that there need be no clashing. Mr McLeod intimated that Mrs McLean, proprietor of the Masons’ Arms, Bathgate, intended presenting the alliance with a championship cup.
In the discussions that followed, the idea was received favourably and it was agreed that the alliance be composed of eight clubs, and be called the Eastern Alliance. A further meeting would be called to formally constitute the league. In the meantime Mr McLeod would encourage interest from the likes of Bellstane Birds, Champfleurie, Linlithgow Athletic and West Calder and invite applications to fill the two vacancies.
Thursday, 30th April 1891
MEETING OF THE SCOTTISH LEAGUE
The committee found that Third Lanark, in the recent league match with Heart of Midlothian, had played an unregistered player, Munn. The outcome was that a 4-point deduction would be imposed on Third Lanark for this breach.
SFA ANNUAL REPORT: SEASON 1890/91
The SFA issued its annual report for the 1890/91 season in advance of the forthcoming annual general meeting. Two issues dominated the report; the Renton court case and the crusade against professionalism. The section on the Renton case conclude: - “The lawsuit Renton v Association followed, and is now pending before the Court of Session. The Association procured the services of the leading counsel at the Scottish Bar, and on their advice fought the case out on the preliminary pleas, which were decided against the Association. A very heavy proof on the merits of the case was fixed for July, but as this would entail enormous outlay, from which, win or lose, the Association could gain nothing, therefore, with view to save this expenditure, terms of compromise are under negotiation. The committee hope that ere this report be submitted the settlement of the case will be un fait accompli.
Clearly the report had been produced before last weeks compromise meeting and the spin put on it was that it would be favourable to the SFA. Also, despite evidence to the contrary, they believed that they would win the case but the costs in doing so would be prohibitive. As it transpired the agreement reached was very much in Renton’s favour but perhaps they still could have gained more if the case had reached its natural conclusion. In footballing parlance, the SFA were 2-0 and being outplayed as that match moved into the closing minutes. Still the SFA had to put a brave face on things and portray themselves as being magnanimous in front of their supporters. Given the Treasurers Report showed the SFA to be £1,186 (around £155,000 today) in profit, the estimated £500 costs bill will put a large hole in their balance.
The other major issue was the SFA’s crusade against professionalism and part of that fight involved having sight of the clubs books. The report on this issue was as follows: -
“It was deemed judicious to call in the books of the principal clubs. This necessarily entailed a large amount of labour, and the committee have to express their thanks to the clubs for their ready promptitude in answering the summons, and their patience during the protracted examination. The books of the following clubs were called in, viz: - Abercorn, Arthurlie, Annbank, Ayr, Airdrieonians, Battlefield, Burnbank Swifts, Cambuslang, Celtic, Clyde, Cowlairs, Dumbarton, Dundee Wanderers, East Stirlingshire, East End (Dundee), Fair City Athletic, Falkirk, Glasgow Hibernians, Hurlford, Heart of Midlothian, Harp (Dundee), 5th KRV, Kilbirnie, Kilmarnock, King's Park, Linthouse, Leith Athletic, 3rd Lanark, Morton, Mossend Swifts, Methlan Park, Northern, Our Boys (Dundee), Port Glasgow Athletic, Partick Thistle, Pollokshaws, Queen’s Park, Renton, Rangers, Royal Albert, St.Mirren, St.Johnstone, St.Bernard’s, Thistle and Vale of Leven. A very complete scrutiny was made by the committee, various club treasurers being examined at length on the items. The examination, as a whole, goes to prove that on the testimony of the books submitted, with the explanations given, professionalism does not exist in Scotland. The principal faults found by the committee were almost entirely in bookkeeping. Several clubs were censured on this account. The committee regret to report that three cases of specially written-up books were sent in for examination – viz: - by Cowlairs, Glasgow Hibernians and Edinburgh Hibernians. The former club was suspended, and the two latter became defunct of their own account. The following clubs sent in mutilated cost books: - Royal Albert and Dundee Harp. Both clubs gave explanations, and received the censure of the committee, Annbank and Dundee Wanderers were also censured for the unsatisfactory method of keeping their books. The books of the Renton club were returned unexamined after the club’s expulsion. The enties given by the St.Johnstone, of Perth, were of so meagre a description that the committee returned their books unsigned. Alterations in the method of bookkeeping suggested to the various treasurers were readily agreed to by the clubs. The principal faults found were: - 1. No adequate check or record of stand money. This fault only exists amongst clubs, all of whom, with the exception of the Queen’s Park, have no adequate check, one club entering its stand money in a lump sum at the end of the year. The committee strongly recommend a stand and gate book being kept. 2. The non-retention of vouchers, gate and stand vouchers being destroyed after the match. 3. The payment of lost time and railway fares. This is a most important item, so as many of our city clubs bring their players a distance every Saturday. The payments made were carelessly done, the treasurer failing to check the amount asked by the players, which, while under the regulation amount, were in excess of their actual loss or outlay. 4. Carelessness in the making of entries, few particulars being given. This, in the case of the non-retention of vouchers, doubled the work of this committee. To obviate this in future, the committee would recommend that entries should be made in detail, the necessary vouchers being obtained.”
On the basis of the above report, the exercise in examining the books of the clubs proved to be a shambles. To give any assessment on the basis of the way the books were presented as described above was near impossible and showed the SFA to be naïve and/or incompetent. So professionalism does not exist in Scottish football is now official!
One final note from the annual report showed that the SFA had 173 registered clubs and that 33 new clubs had registered during the season.
ORDINARY MATCH
LINTHOUSE 3 PARTICK THISTLE 0
Half time: 2-0 Referee:
Langlands Park, Govan
