MIDDLESBROUGH IRONOPOLIS                                      

Match Reports

Queen Victoria on the right. Must have been amused some of the time!

26 March 1892, Victoria Ground, Stockton. Cleveland Cup Final.
Middlesbrough 0
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 4 ( Coupar, McArthur, Seymour, +)

Athletic News 28 March 1892, report of "The Free Critic"

Cleveland Cup Final. Played at Victoria Ground, Stockton.

MIDDLESBROUGH, --McKay, goal; Crone and McManus, backs; Waller, Bell, and Bach, half-backs; Cronshaw, Campbell, McKnight, Wood, and Black, forwards.

IRONOPOLIS, --Watts, goal; Elliott and Langley, backs; Seymour, McNair, and Millar, half-backs; Hill, Hughes, McArthur, Coupar, and Gordon, forwards.

Linesmen : Messrs Howcroft and Kellebar. Referee : Mr J J Bentley.

The game started amidst a tremendous roar, and there was very little in winning the toss. Both teams commenced as if they meant business and had it all to do in the first five minutes, and the ball was whizzed about from end to end for a short time. Watts, the substitute in goal, having his stiffest job before a point was scored, but his coolness in clearing made the “Washer” gentlemen more confident. It was a rather trying time for the youngster, and there was the burly figure of McKnight hanging ominously around, but Watts got the ball away, and very soon Hill, I think it was, ran down the wing, centered finely, and Coupar rushed up at the right moment, and McKay was beaten. And there arose a mighty shout, such as I have only once heard equaled, and that was at Glasgow a fortnight ago. The “Nops”--we must use this occasionally so as to vary the phraseology --went at it very hard after their initial success, and they were far and away the better team, their attack being much more determined than that of their opponents, and it reminded me very much of the game played by West Bromwich Albion at the Oval, only that in Saturday’s match the Ironopolis had most of the play besides scoring goals. The efforts of the Middlesbrough forwards were very weak, and they lacked the go of their opponents, who were continually on the ball, and little Hill in particular put in some rare good work. Both Crone and McManus defended fairly well, and McKay had not a great deal to do; but presently McArthur ran forward to a pass by Hughes and put the ball through for a second time, after about twenty minutes play. During the rest of the first half, the Middlesbrough men did all they could to get on an equal footing, and for about three minutes the Ironopolis goal seemed pretty certain to fall, but both Elliott and Langley were in splendid form and cleared time after time, while Seymour, at half back, was in capital trim. Watts had two or three shots to save, but he managed it, and just before half time a shot was put in at the bottom goal and went through, Ironopolis leading by three to none. A breeze had now appeared on the scene, and seemed determined to do all it could for the “Nops” for it blew pretty strongly in their favour; for all that, the Middlesbrough people played up better than in the first half and seemed to show more energy, but the result of the game was never in doubt, and after staving off several attacks the Ironopolis forwards broke away, and when they did so they were generally dangerous. Mckay saved several shots very well indeed, but the bulk of the defensive work was done by McManus, particularly after he dropped illegal tactics and went in for playing the game. He cleared in beautiful fashion, and he had a couple of warm individuals to deal with in Hill and Hughes. On the other wing Gordon was not up to much, but Coupar and McArthur played very well indeed, and were nicely backed up. It fell to Seymour to increase the score by a long shot which just went under the bar and apparently deceived McKay. The play toned down after this, and grew somewhat uninteresting, for one side had a safe thing on, and the other, although they fought desperately, were very wild and inaccurate in their passing. Once or twice they had near shaves of scoring, young Watts again showing up prominently, but the end came in a victory for the Ironopolis by four goals to none. The result seemed to be rather unexpected, but was very popular, and there is no doubt it was thoroughly deserved, for the visitors played sound and effective football all round, and also played a game to get goals. In the first half there was a lot of feeling shown, and Campbell and McNair were both cautioned for hacking, but in the second portion, the feeling was not so keen, although there were any number of free kicks given to both sides. On Saturday’s form The Ironopolis are a much smarter team than Middlesbrough, but occasionally the latter showed points which only good players are capable of. The mistake was that their attempts at combination were not sustained, and their was not the devil in their play that there was in their opponents, who are very little behind our League teams. They not only pass well, but they can dribble and shoot and, best of all, they are cotnually on the run and make for the ball on every possible occasion. In Hill they have a clever outside right, who slips his opponents in a wonderfully tricky fashion; and indeed, all the forwards, with the exception of Gordon, are real good ‘uns. Our old friend Peter Coupar, late of Bolton Wanderers, Kidderminster, and Stoke, is in better form than when last I saw him, and McArthur is a judicious centre, while Hughes feeds Hill extremely well. At half-back Seymour was certainly the pick, and is a most energetic player, first at one end of the field and then at the other. Millar put in some very fine kicks, but does not bestow too much attention on the locality in which he sends the ball, and as a rule it either went wide or to an opponant. He, however, is still a capital defender, but a half-back wants to be more than that now-a-days. He can also charge in the good old-fashioned way. McNair is not a brilliant centre-half, but he has had his training in Renton, and knows how to feed his forwards. At back Elliott stood head and shoulders above everybody else. I don’t mean literally, for I should imagine about 20 of the players stood head and shoulder above him; but although he is not a big one, there is plenty of him, and he both kicks and tackles freely, and possesses a vast amount of resources. His companion did not play up to his usual form, so I was told, but he was not at all bad, and Watts kept goal exceedingly well. Turning to the losers, it is difficult to pick out one, with the exception of McManus, who played really well, and it was only in the second portion that he shone, then he played grandly, his kicking being very fine. Crone is a well-built, good-humoured Irishman, and ought to be a capital back. McKay in goal could hardly be blamed, although one of the shots appeared somewhat simple. There was not much judgment displayed by the half-backs, and I should say that Waller, the old Sheffield Wednesdayite, was about the pick, although Bach and Bell were responsible for some good work. The forwards lacked cohesion, and their movements were clumsy in the extreme as compared with the lithe actions of their opponents. Campbell played fairly well, but has developed a real fine temper since he left Preston North End, and was responsible for more than one shady trick. The whole five of them played without method, and their attack was rather easily broken up by the stubborn defense opposed to them. Little Black, on the extreme left, made some tricky runs, and knows how to centre, but his companions did not know how to take advantage of them. I enjoyed the match very much, for there was any amount of enthusiasm about it, and on the whole the spectators behaved in a most praise-worthy manner.

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18 February 1893, Paradise Ground, Football Association Cup.
Middlesbrough 2 (Hill, McArthur)
Preston North End 2 (Gordon 2), after extra time.

Athletic News, 20 February 1893

IRONOPOLIS.-- C Watts, goal; J Elliott and A Langley, backs; D McNair, R Chatt, and J Oliver, half-backs; J
Hill, A Hughes, W McArthur, T Seymour, and W McReddie, forwards.

PRESTON NORTH END.-- G Drummond, goal; R Holmes and N J Ross, backs; Grier, Saunders, and
Stewart, half-backs; J Gordon, J Ross, W Russell, J Beckton, and J Cowan, forwards.

Referee: Mr W H Jope (Wednesbury). Linesmen: Messrs J H Strawson and T Tomlinson.

North End won the toss, and of course placed the “Washers” with the wind in their faces. The ball was at once carried into the home territory, but McReddie securing, put in a splendid run. Holmes kicked out to save, but from the subsequent throw in Hill pounced upon the ball and sent it flying into the net one minute from the start. This fired the Prestonians to desperation, although they played a gentlemanly game, Saunders and Ross being very prominent. The home side were not to be denied, and Seymour must have scored had Drummond not rushed out in the nick of time and kicked away. J.Ross was conspicuous for some neat dodging and capital shooting, one shot negotiated by Watts being a magnificent effort, and was equally well saved. The excitement amongst the crowd was intense. North End had the best of the play, and Cowan going down the left passed to Russell, who sent to Gordon, and “Jack” equalised with a beauty. After some even work, North End again asserted their supremacy, and Jack Gordon once more did the needful with a fast oblique shot. They continued to have the best of the exchanges up to half-time, when the score stood two to one in favour of the North Enders. The second half opened briskly, the “Nops” being quickly in evidence, and by strong combined play caused Holmes and Ross endless trouble and anxiety, but they were both in capital trim, and not in the humour to brook any liberties. However, Drummond had to clear twice at very close quarters, and did it well. I had almost forgotten to say that North End played without Saunders from the first ten minutes of the second half, he having been injured in colliding with McReddie. They were only really dangerous about four times during the second half -- that is, to trouble Watts. Once they would have scored whilst the home lot were claiming for off-side, but the ball struck the posts. The “Nops” played up hard as the end approached, and were repeatedly swarming about in the vicinity of Drummond, and sent in repeated shots but “Georgie” was not to be beaten. However, about ten minutes from the finish McArthur shot in, and Drummond put through his own goal, the shot being too hot to hold. The excitement that followed beggars description, the yells and cheers being calculated to rouse the dead in the almost adjoining cemetery -- hats, caps, handkerchiefs, and other paraphernalia being mixed up in one indescribable mass. No time was lost in resuming the conflict, and North End, who again had the benefit of the wind, went off with an impetuousness that threatened to carry all before it; but the “Nops” were equally determined, Elliott and Langley being a tower of strength, and they robbed the Preston forwards several times just as they were in the act of shooting. However, the pace seemed to tell upon the visitors, and, after they had been compelled to vacate the “Nops’” stronghold, the latter found employment for Ross, Holmes, and Co.,and twice had the home team exceedingly hard lines in not scoring. Drummond saving once when it looked any odds upon him being beaten. The end came without any alteration to the score, each side having put on two goals. The game was of a hard, fast, and stubborn nature throughout, and, on the whole, scientific side was not sacrificed for rough and brutal play, although it was no drawing-room game by any means. North End put in some magnificent passing, but found the “Nops” defence very safe on the whole. I don’t think the North End have had a harder 120 minutes work in their lives, for the game was a scorcher from start to finish. The play of the home team was very good, the forwards shaping really well, but I have seen the halves do much better, the greasy nature of the ground appearing dead against them. The backs were to the fore with splendid work, their tackling and kicking being quite on a par with the redoubtable pair at the opposite end. Watts played a clever game for the home side and saved some spanking shots, but he had every assistance from Elliott and Langley. McNair did well in the second half, as also did Oliver, but the slippery ground was detrimental to the play of both. Chatt played a rare game, and was about as good as any player on the field. Hill  and Hughes got through an immense amount of work, and were in no way daunted by the none too sweet tempered Nicholas John, whose glance is calculated to startle an ordinary forward. McArthur, McReddie, and Seymour played very well, but I fancy I have seen them to greater advantage; but, of course, the calibre of the opposing defence must be allowed for. North End played well to a man, Drummond doing some remarkably good work in goal, several of his saves being cleverly executed. Ross and Holmes played a determined and not too gentle game, and have evidently made up their minds not to let the ball find its way into their net if it was in their power to prevent it. Holmes kicked and tackled superbly all through, but “Nick” made one or two mistakes during the game, and the sterling play of the opposing side seemed to rile the “old ‘un” and upset his calculation at times. Stewart, at half, played capitally, but Sanders and Grier are a trifle too rough and shady for my fancy. At the same time they got through a lot of work. The North End forwards were the mainstay of the team, their play being really clever, and at times they puzzled and tantalised the “Washers’ ” halves till they were wild- to put it mildly- their quick, square passing being too much for them. No one did better than Jack Gordon, whose fast runs and pretty centres were a treat to witness. Ross was very tricky, and could get over the ground much better than Oliver, who was opposed to him. Cowan was responsible for many fast runs, but dallied too long with the ball before centring. Russell and Beckton rendered valuable aid, being well to the fore in every attack made on the “Nops’ “ goal; but I cannot say that I admire Russell’s style of play- it partakes too much of the vigorous. On the whole honours were about easy, and both sides missed several good chances to score, the home team especially being unfortunate. The game, I presume, will have to be replayed next Saturday at Preston.

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25 February 1893, Deepdale-road, Football Association Cup, replayed tie.

Preston North End 7 (Russell, J.Ross (jun), Beckton 3,++)
Middlesbrough 0

Athletic News, 20 February 1893

ENGLISH CUP. -- REPLAYED TIE.
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NORTH END MAKE NO MISTAKE.
(BY HARRICUS)

PRESTON NORTH END.-- Drummond, goal; Holmes and Ross, backs; Grier, Saunders, and Stewart, half-backs; J Gordon, J Ross (jun), Russell, Beckton, and Cowan, forwards.

IRONOPOLIS.-- C Watts, goal; J Elliott and A Langley, backs; D McNair, R Chatt, and J Oliver, half-backs; J Hill, A Hughes, W McArthur, T Seymour, and W McReddie, forwards.

Referee: Mr Ashmole (Leicester)

The game did not open in a very exciting manner, but after about ten minutes play, as the result of good work on the home left, Gordon received the ball, and placing well, Russell headed the first point for the Prestonians. Soon afterwards Drummond had his initial shot to stop, having to run out to clear, and the ball was in the goal again almost before he could get back. The “Nops” goal had a very near shave, Russell striking the inside of the upright, and after some even play a foul was awarded North End, which N.J.Ross took, and enabled his younger brother to put on a second goal, and very soon afterwards N.J.Ross had another free kick, for a foul close in, entrusted to his care, and again the ball was scrummaged past Watts, so that the fouling by the visitors was rather expensive. North End were certainly having the best of it, Russell working hard in the centre, though McReddie, Seymour, and McArthur often got the ball to the other end, only to met by a defence that was rather too much for them; but seized with a sudden determination they broke through, and Hill had a splendid chance offered him with no one in front except Drummond, but he lost it through dallying instead of shooting, giving Drummond a better chance of clearing. The fourth goal was rather a simple one, as three of the Middlesbrough defenders allowed Beckton to literally walk through them, though, of course, it was very smart work by the little inside-left. Grier had just retired owing to having been kicked on the ankle, but this did not deter the home team from registering a fifth by Beckton just on half-time. It was found that it was not safe to allow Grier to return, so that North End had to play throughout the second half with only ten men. Notwithstanding this, Chatt soon had to show his agility; in fact, for a long time in the second 45, it was nothing but shooting practice for North End, and when Ironopolis did manage to break away, Seymour was pulled up for offside -- though in his own half -- owing to Ross and Holmes being over the line. With the hope of improving matters, McReddie and Seymour changed places, and this seemed to work better, for they immediately ran off in the direction of Drummond; but this was only temporary, and from another foul Beckton brought up the score to last year’s total, and in the next minute Saunders had the hard luck to just graze the crossbar. The “Nops” did not give up; and once Hill had a rare opportunity but he failed to utilise it, and still another goal fell to the lot of North End, who thus won by seven goals to none. The winners played a rare good game, and had pretty much their own way throughout. The Middlesbrough men did offer a little resistance in the first half, although they had five goals registered against them, but on turning round they could do nothing, the forwards being short of go-aheadness so necessary in scoring goals. This was just when they ought to have shown up, as North End had only ten men, J.Ross falling half-back, leaving only four forwards, and one of the four, Gordon, was of very little use, as he received a nasty kick early on, which took all the “go” out of him. The “Nops” had to pay for their fouling, as three of the goals came from free kicks. The four forwards were met with a stubborn defence, but the “Nops” front rank had more than their match in Ross, Saunders, and Stewart; in fact young Ross seemed quite at home at half, and was just as tricky as when in his usual place. Drummond had very little to do in goal, but with the exception of running out he was quite safe, and is well entitled to be considered the best allround player we have. Ross and Holmes kicked well, and Saunders was always following the ball, the halves as a trio being much too good for their opponents, and Grier’s retirement by no means weakened this division. The forwards one and all did well. Of course, there was no right-wing in the concluding half, for which the “Nops” must have been thankful, as Gordon up to being hurt was in fine fettle. Russell was in rare form in the centre, and can rough it with the rest of them, and Gowan and Beckton got on well together, the former’s sprints of the outside taking well; and on the whole, with Trainer back in his place, if the team show Saturday’s form against Everton they should again enter the final. The Ironopolis gave a very disappointing display, but I should think had the ground been dry they would have done much better, as I noticed that both wings were more dangerous when playing on the best side. One would naturally ask what the goalkeeper was doing with such a score against him, but it was not the fault of Watts, who kept out some good shots. Elliott was the better of the two backs, Langley being rather rash at times, though he also went about with a limp. Chatt made a champion centre-half, and was as good as any man on the field; in fact, the defence all round was very fair. In my opinion the weakness lay in the forwards. They did not start at all badly, but they fell off terribly as the game progressed. McReddie made some fair runs on the outside left, and McArthur gave him plenty of assistance, but little Hill was rather out of it against Stewart and N.J.Ross.

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1892/93

2 September 1893 Paradise Ground.  THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0
Liverpool 2 (McVean, McCue)

Athletic News 4 September 1893
On Saturday, Ironopolis, with an entirely new team (with the exception of Duncan McNair, the old “skipper”), opposed the powerful Liverpool contingent in a Second Division League match. There was a fairly good crowd present, and expectations ran high as to how the local professionals would acquit themselves in the trial of strength with their formidable opponents. Many, I have no doubt came to scoff, but they went away with a much better opinion of the prowess of the local youngsters than they had prior to the opening of hostilities. The team which did duty was almost local, and only contained two Scotchmen, namely, McNair and McKie, and these players, together with our local champion George Millar, were the only men in the team that could boast of having seen “service in the tented field,” the remainder being comparative youngsters. It was an exceedingly bold undertaking on the part of the “Nops” directorate to show fight with such a team, but their boldness in stepping into the breach with the talent at their disposal met its reward, for the lads played a rare good game, especially in the first half. In the second moiety the team was altered, and the change was not conducive to the best interest of themselves. In addition to this the men fell away in a lamentable fashion, owing to lack of condition, whilst the superior physique of the visitors told its tale as the end approached. Throughout the first half the home lot more than held their own, and found McLean, Hannah, and McOwen a fair amount of work, the latter dealing with some capital shots from Cooper, Deakin, and McNair, whilst the backs, together with McCue, proved too strong for the home attack. The “Nops” custodian only handled twice in the first half, but in the second period they fell away, and Liverpool gradually gained the upper hand, McVean scoring with a good shot close in, which gave Nixon no chance whatever. This was shortly afterwards augmented by McCue, who banged in a beauty and completely beat the youngster who guarded the home fortress. Nothing further was done, and a fairly good game ended in a win for Liverpool by two goals to none.

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Liverpool played a good game, but they will require to smarten up if they intend to top the league. The backs were clever, as was also McOwen. McCue was a treat at centre half, and vied with McNair for the honour of being the best man on the field in the middle division. McVean and Gordon were the pick of the forwards. Stott put in some good work in the field, but shot wretchedly. Henderson, in the centre, played very poorly in the initial half, but improved wonderfully in the second period. If the “Washers” have a few gates like last Saturday, they will soon be in a position to improve the team, and so satisfy the grumbling of their supporters.

9 September 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Ardwick 6 (Morris 2, Bowman, Carson, Robinson, Jones.)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 1

Athletic News 11 September1893.

ASSOCIATION NOTES
THE LEAGUE.---2ND DIVISION
TWO WELCOME POINTS AT ARDWICK

Fully 4,000 spectators assembled to witness the first League match at Ardwick, the attraction being the visit of the   late Northern League champions, Middlesbrough Ironopolis, who were unfortunately without their full team, two of their members missing the train; but they managed to find a reserve man, and consequently played ten men only. This gave the home team a great advantage, which they did not fail to take hold of, for they played like a winning team throughout, and easily secured a couple of points. The “Nops” showed up to commence with, but when the home forwards got fairly working, they showed capital combination. The play was hardly ever out of the visitors half during the first portion, and had it not been for the fine display of the visitors’ custodian, Nickson, the score would have been very heavy against them. The interval arrived with the score four goals to one in favour of the home team. Notwithstanding their disadvantage, the “Nops” played up splendidly after the interval, and gave some trouble to the home defence, who were, however, equal to the occasion, and frustrated all attempts to get through, Douglas in particular shining. The home forwards were given every opportunity by the halves, who tackled and placed the ball very effectively, Hopkins especially playing a fine, cool game. The home team, during the last twenty minutes, fairly pinned their opponents, Yates, on the right wing, putting in several good centres, one of which was rushed through after some fine defensive play on the part of the “Nops.” Continuing to attack, the Ardwickites put in all they knew to improve their goal average, and at length Carson notched a sixth point, and an uninteresting game ended with Ardwick winning by six goals to one. The visitors seemed thoroughly disorganised, and well they might be, their forwards working very indifferently, and being hardly ever dangerous, whilst their halves played with but little pluck, but the defence was very good. Nickson, in goal, fairly distinguished himself, and had it not been for him the score would have been very heavy against them. The home team played well to a man, and if they will only show the same form in the future as on Saturday they will occupy a good position at the end of the season.

18 September 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Burslam Port Vale 4 (Campbell, +)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Athletic News 25 September 1893

NORTH STAFFORDSHIRE NOTES
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MONDAY’S LEAGUE MATCH AT COBRIDGE

PORT VALE scored their fourth consecutive win in the Second League Tournament on Monday, when they decisively defeated Middlesbrough Ironopolis by four goals to none, the scoring being equally divided in each half. In the first moiety the Vale pressed almost continuously, and it was only the stubborn defence of the visitors which prevented the score from being largely augmented. Campbell was very prominent amongst the home forwards, the effort with which he scored the first goal being a brilliant one, and Beales also worked grandly in the centre. In the second “45,” play deteriorated somewhat, an unnecessary amount of vigour being infused by some of the visiting side into their play, which several times called for the interference of the referee. Port Vale are without doubt a greatly improved team, and at periods during the match they showed form of a very superior character.

23 September 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 2 (Allport, Adams)
Ardwick 0

TEES-SIDE

It would appear as though Dame Fortune had forsaken the poor “Nops,” at least for the time being. Last Saturday was the first match played at home since the visit of Liverpool, and just when the supporters of the club were anxious to see the team, Jupiter Pluvius stepped in and damped their ardour and consequently spoiled the gate, which, seeing Ardwick had administered such a drubbing to the Tees-siders a fortnight before, would have been a big one. There would not be more than 1,000 people present when Ironopolis started the ball in the teeth of the gale.

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For a time Ardwick were the chief aggressors, but the home team soon found their feet, and by fairly good combination and real pluck they found their way into the Ardwick quarters, and gave Douglas more than one ticklish shot to negotiate. From a clinking centre by Deakin, Allport beat the visiting custodian with a sharp shot, one of the backs being in Douglas’s way and so spoiled his view. Even play was the order of the day during the first half, although Ord, the home goalkeeper, had most to do, and he did it well, his kicking out being very fine, if somewhat risky. The game, owing to the rain, was quickly resumed, little or no interval intervening, and during this portion of the struggle the home lot made it mighty hot for the Ardwick defence. Time after time a score seemed imminent, but capitulation is evidently not to the liking of the Ardwick backs or goalkeeper, although from passes from the left, and judicious play by Mooney in the centre, Adams should have scored at least two goals and Allport one, the chances being of the simplest character, but unfortunately for the “Nops” the ball was sent high over the crossbar. The home lads had much the best of this half, and Adams clapped on number two with a shot he ought to have taken when he had the previous chances. Douglas showed good form, and so did the backs, and nothing further was done in the scoring line; but how the goal escaped on two occasions during bullies close in was a mystery, but it did, and the game ended in the “Nops” achieving their first League victory by two goals to none; and a hard-worked for and well-deserved one it was, too.

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I was not particularly struck with the visiting forwards, Milarvie being the best of the bunch. Whittle and Milne worked hard amongst the halves, but their mainstay were the backs and Douglas, this trio working like veritable niggers, in the second half especially. Their good play was certainly the means of staving off what would have been a much heavier defeat had they not been in trim. Ord did extremely well for the home lot, as did Upton and Bell at back. All the halves did very well, but McKie was decidedly the best of the division, Grewar and McNair following him closely for honours. Forward Hunter, Mooney, and Allport were the pick. Mooney putting in some very judicious play, which, unfortunately, was not taken full advantage of. If he goes on as he has begun, he will be a decided help to the team.

30 September 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Crewe Alexandra 5 (Pickard, Roberts2, Cartwright, Burrows)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Athletic News 2 October 1893

Crewe Alexandra started very badly against Middlesbrough Ironopolis, for when Sam Omerod blew the whistle for the start the railway men had only nine representatives, but notwithstanding this state of affairs Pickard got away and promptly scored a goal for the Alexandra after ten minutes’ play. Bob Roberts quickly notched two more before half-time, and at the interval Crewe led by three goals to none. After crossing over the play was of the most onesided character. Crewe having matters entirely in their own hands, and this in spite of the fact that they were only playing with ten men during the second portion, one of the players being disabled at an early stage. Just before the finish Cartwright, with a long shot, scored from half back; and Burrows, dribbling right through the visitors’ defence, notched a fifth point, Crewe thus winning by five goals to none. The railway men deserve every credit for the manner in which they tackled their more stalwart opponents, and in proof of the onesidedness of the game it need only be stated that in the second half Hickton, the Crewe custodian, never handled the sphere. Cope, Stafford, and Cartwright were the pick of the home defence and amongst the forwards Roberts, Burrows, and Pickard were the best, while Barnett and Peake also put in some useful work.

7 October 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Liverpool 6 (McLean+)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Athletic News 9 October 1893
Liverpool had an easy thing on with the Ironopolis. Ord, who came down from Everton, was in goal for the visitors, and Mooney late centre forward for Bootle, also played for them. McLean opened the scoring from full back, and thenceforward the Liverpool men did pretty much as they liked with their opponants. Now and again Mooney put in nice work, but the visitors never got into anything like working order. The fact of the matter is, Liverpool were never drawn, and this made the game very uninteresting, and in the end Liverpool won by six goals to nil.

21 October 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Walsall Town Swifts 1 ( )
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Athletic News 23 October 1893

MIDLAND NOTES

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WALSALL ON THE RISE

I am glad to see that the Walsall Town Swifts are coming on a bit. They have evidently obtained a fresh lease of life, and when their new forwards are duly qualified they will be tough customers for some of the teams in the Second League to tackle. They were pitted against Middlesbrough Ironopolis on Saturday, and again managed to come through on the right side, though the margin was a very narrow one, viz., one goal to none. It was a capitally contested game, and the visitors strove hard right up to the finish to avert defeat, but the Walsall team were just one too many for them, and presented an impregnable defence.

NEWS OF THE NORTH -- TEES-SIDE

Considering the Ironopolis players had to proceed straight from Walsall station to the ground, their performance in suffering defeat by only one goal to none is anything but a bad one, and shows the team to be improving each week.
FORWARD

28 October 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 2 (Grewar, Hunt)
Burton Swifts 1 (Ekins)

Athletic News 30 October 1893

NOTES FROM THE NORTH

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TEES-SIDE

The fact of the Burton Swifts having drawn last week with Liverpool, and Middlesbrough being away at Bishop Auckland, tended to considerably augment the “Nops’” gate, which may be said to have been a fairly good one as gates go now-a-days in this district. The home team tried two new players - Davie, a Dundee man, and Hunt, late of Mexborough. The first-named must, I am sorry to say, be put down at once as a miserable failure, but Hunt created a very favourable impression, his splendid heading, shooting, and fine turn of speed enabling him to render capital service to the Ironopolis, who have without doubt got hold of a good player.

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Ironopolis had the benefit of a gale of wind in the first half, but the Swifts scored a goal inside the first minute. Upton making a bad miss which left Ekins a clear field, and that player was not slow to avail himself of the opportunity. After this the “Nops” had nearly all the play, and kept Jones busily occupied. Grewar, from centre half registered the first goal, which hunt supplemented with a beauty later on. An appeal -- and a just one, too -- for another was negatived by the referee, and half time found the home team leading by two goals to one. The “Nops” had almost as much of the game against the wind in the second half as the visitors had with it. Jones having to handle as frequently as his vis-à-vis at the other end. The home lads had a goal disallowed for off-side, a decision not at all to the liking of the players or spectators; but when the end came the “Nops” were found winners of a stubbornly contested game by two goals to one. Several of the Burtonians played with more force than was necessary, and one of the halves twice came under the ban of the referee.

-----

All the home players put in good work, Grewar at centre half being a tower of strength, and he was ably supported by the old Rentonian, McNair. Mooney was the shining light amongst the forwards, his play being both tricky and judicious, and I think, without stretching a point, he is one of the best players the club have yet secured from across the border. Hunt and Hunter rendered him every assistance. Jones, the visiting custodian, played a good game, and was ably assisted by his backs, whose kicking throughout was really fine. The halves all did well, but were inclined to be a bit too forcible. The left wing, Ekins and Munro, put in a lot of clipping play during the game, but Bogie, the centre, made a mistake in giving them the ball as often as he did in the second half. The victory created an all-round satisfaction that ought to be beneficial to the club in the near future, for I understand that after next Saturday’s match at Trent Bridge the team will be at home the three following Saturdays.

4 November 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Notts County 3 (Logan, Daft, Watson)
Middlesbrough 0

Athletic News 6 November 1893

NOTTS NOTES AND NEWS

Following on from an article on the finances of Notts County~~

THEY WON THE MATCH AGAINST IRONOPOLIS

on Saturday, but then they were on their own ground, and they ought to have gained a far more decisive victory than they did. There was, however, a weakness in the attack chiefly through exceedingly bad shooting at goal, which made one think that a few hours practice in putting the ball into the net would do the Notts forwards a great amount of good. They commenced very well, Logan crediting the side with a goal after five minutes’ play, but it would have created little surprise had the point been disallowed for Watson being off-side. Ten minutes had elapsed in the second half before another goal was obtained, and then Daft kicked through, after a smart dash by Bruce and Logan. Notts just about this time pressed hard, and during one close scrummage the ball was sent past Ord, but this point was disallowed. In the last minute another goal was put on, Watson successfully ending a run by Daft and Logan, so that Notts won by three goals to none. They were a much better team than Ironopolis, though the visitors played very well at times, and were near scoring more than once. Harper often gave them chances, and he played a very indifferent game indeed. Had Hendry not been in his best form the consequences might have been surprising. Alf. Shelton, whose eye has not recovered from the severe injury received at Ardwick, was missed from the half-backs, Osborne being in the centre and Calderhead on the left. Bramley again played a capital game, and Kerr, who only a month or so since was looked upon as being simply an emergency man, was as good a forward as anyone. He is becoming a great favourite with the spectators too, and if he goes on improving he will soon be worth all the praise any body can give him. Watson is hardly doing so well as he did in his earlier matches, but still he is very effective, and Daft, Logan, and Bruce play a very nice game. The visiting forwards were a moderate lot, but the half-backs and the backs defended in creditable style. Ord in goal also effected one or two clever saves.

11 November 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 2 (  )
Grimsby Town 6 (  )

Athletic News 13 November 1893

Ironopolis were visited by the “Ancient Mariners,” who are always a welcome team in Middlesbrough. Perhaps the fact of several Grimsby lads having figured in the “Nops” team in the past has something to do with this kindly feeling, Hopewell, the two Taylors, and Langley, now of Sheffield Wednesday, being amongst the number; whilst an additional interest would be lent to the game from the fact that McCairns (late of the Ironopolis Reserve) occupied the centre forward position for Grimsby.

------------

My task this week is one of a most unpleasant character, but I wish it to be distinctly understood that what conscience, common sense, and a love of good football compels me to say, is not a biased account in favour of the Ironopolis club, but the outcome of a desire to see the game played as it should be, and not pregnant at every turn with that brutal horse-play which predominated on Saturday, in which several of the Grimsby players were conspicuously prominent. The element of roughness introduced into the game was to be deplored by all who take an interest in the winter pastime. The struggle was undoubtedly the most unsatisfactory that has ever taken place on the Ironopolis ground, and was, I am sorry to say, partly occasioned by a palpable weakness on the part of the referee, Mr. A. Cooper, whose decisions in many instances were fearful and wonderful specimens of the whistleman’s art.

--------------

The struggle was fiercely contested, and Grimsby won by six goals to two -- official score -- and on the day’s play they were undoubtedly the better team, and fully deserved to win. But at the same time Ironopolis experienced the vilest of luck, and though they had nearly all the play in the second half they could not break down the Grimsby defence more than once, in spite of the fact that the visitor’s goal was besieged times out of number. The brilliant play of Lundie, at back, and Whitehouse , in goal, proved the salvation of the “fishermen.” McCairns, Jones, and Ackroyd were also conspicuous for capital work. Ord, the home custodian, played badly, and the backs were only moderate. Upon kicking one goal for the visitors Bell was the best of the halves, and Mooney, Hunter, and Wallace of the forwards. The Grimsby players are certainly the roughest contingent it has been my lot to see for a considerable period, their jumping tactics being most reprehensible. One of the players, boasting a “Brummagem” dialect, ought to have been sent about his business if the referee had done his duty. I am sorry to have to write in this strain, but duty compels me to do so, because such foul and contemptible players as Grimsby proved themselves to be on Saturday are not fit to take part in what, it must not be forgotten, is a sport, and not a “Brummagem” dogfight.
FORWARD

Athletic News 20 November 1893

CORRESPONDENCE

---------

THE ALLEGED ROUGH PLAY AT
MIDDLESBROUGH

To the Editor of the Athletic News.

Sir, I am instructed by my directors to ask you to publish the enclosed letter, as they are of the opinion that this is the only fair means of atoning for the unintentional injury that you have done Grimsby Town in publishing the notes of your correspondent “Forward” in your issue of the 13th inst. As the letter needs no comment from me, I will add that it is one I have received from the gentleman named in answer to my inquiry as to whether our players were deserving of the unmeasured terms employed by “Forward” in his notes upon the game.--

Thanking you in anticipation, I am, sir, yours respectfully. JOHN SHEPHERD, Secretary.
Grimsby, November 18 1893.

[COPY:]

48, Aglionby-street, Carlisle,

November 17, 1893.

Dear Sir,-- In reply to your inquiry, may I say that as a rule I do not take the slightest notice of newspaper football criticism. But the notes by “Forward” in last Monday’s issue were of such a character, that I feel bound to break away from my usual practice. I have no hesitation in saying that the notes in question are a most one-sided and biased account of what occurred. No one but a blind partisan could have penned them. That the play at times partook of a rougher element than was necessary or desirable is doubtless true; but “that it was pregnant at every turn with brutal horse-play” is a gross exaggeration, not to use any stronger term. The fact that after the match not a single complaint reached me of any player having being injured I think disposes of that assertion. How “brutal horseplay could be pregnant at every turn” without anyone being seriously injured can best be explained perhaps by “Forward.” I certainly cannot understand it, except for the very simple reason that the statement is not in accordance with facts. I admit having to award a number of free kicks for fouls, but these were pretty fairly divided between the two teams. The statement that the Grimsby team was composed of “foul and contemptible players” is equally as unfair and untrue as the first statement. You are at liberty to make what use you like of this letter.--

Yours faithfully.  
A.COOPER (Referee).

------+------

Athletic News 27 November 1893

TEESSIDE

It appears, Mr. Editor, that I have brought “a sea of trouble” about myself for venturing to give a plain unvarnished statement re the play of the Grimsby team at Middlesbrough, and with your permission, I must, in justice to myself, “take up arms” against the combined attack of Mr. Shepherd and the referee, Mr. A. Cooper. This is a free country, and every individual is entitled to an opinion of his own. I have an opinion on the question at issue, and that is, that Grimsby are the roughest set of players it is possible to conceive. I also opine, and that without fear, that Mr. Cooper, who “takes no notice of football criticism,” was as much to blame for the rough play as anyone, owing to his palpable weakness in handling the two sets of players. Mr. Cooper may be a good referee, but he certainly failed to give us a sample of it in the match under notice. It does not follow that because Mr. Cooper was not informed of the injuries to players after the match that there was no rough play. The match over which this controversy has arisen was the roughest I have seen for some time, and singular to say, a Notts pressman had the same tale to tell when the County team visited Grimsby.

25 November 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 3 (Mooney, Wallace, Hunter)
Small Heath 0

The Ironopolis luck is fast becoming proverbial. Last Saturday the directors anticipated a good gate, seeing that Small Heath were the visitors, but they were doomed to disappointment, for the weather turned out wretched in the extreme, rain coming down in torrents half an hour before the time for kicking off, and, instead of a three or four thousand gate, only some 500 enthusiasts put in an appearance. The game, under the depressing circumstances, proved a real good one, play being fast and exciting throughout, each set of players putting in all they knew to capture the coveted two points. The “Nops” had decidedly the best of the game, although as far as actual shooting was concerned Ord was called upon more than Hollis, but proved equal to all demands made upon him.

--- --- ---

Play in the first moiety was fairly even, the “Heathens” showing capital form against the wind and rain, but Ironopolis scored through Mooney, and crossed over with a lead of one goal. The home-side showed remarkably clever play in the second period, and although Ord, their custodian, was called upon to save several fine shots, they had the advantage in play, and scored a couple of clever goals through Wallace and Hunter, and the game ultimately ended in their favour by three goals to nil. Praise is due to the winners for their admirable all-round display. Ord in goal did wonderfully well, and quite redeemed the tarnished reputation, caused by his display in the Grimsby match. Oliver and Upton did some grand work at back, whilst the trio of halves were always to the fore, Bell showing improved form all through. Wallace, Mooney, and Adams were responsible for some fine play, and were ably assisted by Hunter and Hunt.

--- --- ---

Hollis, in goal for the “Heathens,” played well, and too much praise cannot be given to Reynolds, the left back. Ollis was the best of the halves, and was always about when wanted. Wheldon, Hands, and Mobley were the pick of the attack. The combination of the visitors was not good as that of the “Nops,” and I must say that I have seen the whole quintette to better advantage. Perhaps the soft ground was not adapted to their style of play.

--- --- ---

9 December 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 6 (Hunt 3, Hunter, Wallace, Adams)
Rotherham Town 1

Athletic News 11December 1893

TEES-SIDE

Rotherham Town were the visitors to the Ironopolis enclosure last Saturday, in a League match. The game did not attract a very big gate, and doubtless the heavy defeat sustained by Rotherham the previous week had something to do with the meager attendance, people looking upon the match as a foregone conclusion, and to a great extent such conjecture was justifiable, seeing that the “Nops” won in the commonest of canters by six goals to one. Had it not been for the clinking goalkeeping of their “dusky” champion, Wharton, the score would have been much heavier, for the home forwards were in rare shooting trim. The game proved a good one despite the difference in the scores, Rotherham playing with pluck and determination throughout, whilst the home lads showed capital form, the forwards being especially smart, and much too clever for the opposing defence.

--- --- ---

16 December 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0
Notts County 0

Athletic News 18December 1893

TEES-SIDE

The visit of Notts County was looked forward to with considerable interest, owing to the fact of their being old English Cup-tie opponents of the “Nops,” who last year gave the “lambs” their quietus from the Cup Competition. In spite of the keen depression which at present prevails in the local iron and steel trade, a fairly good crowd assembled to witness the fourth visit to the Ironopolis enclosure of the popular County team. After the downfall of the old First Division Leaguers at Newcastle on the previous Saturday, the supporters of the home team were sanguine of the ability of their favourites to defeat the visitors. However, they were doomed to disappointment, for the “Washers” were only able to effect a draw, neither side being able to score.

--- --- ---

The game, though by no means a startling one, proved very interesting on the whole, and the chief feature was the back play of both teams, Harper and Hendry on one side, and Oliver and Upton on the other, being very conspicuous throughout. The play of Hendry was exceedingly fine, his clean kicking being a treat to witness; in short, he was the stumbling block to the “Nops” attack, Adams and Hunt, on the right, only making a moderate show against the old Glasgow Ranger. Stubborn-ness characterized the play of both from start to finish, and each experienced hard lines in not scoring.

--- --- ---

Mr. Midgley, who refereed in the Notts v. “Nops” match, will remember his first visit to Middlesbrough for some time to come, seeing the manner in which the crowd “jollied” him.

23 December 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Small Heath 2
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 1

25 December 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 1 (Grewar)
Newcastle United 1 (Tolson)

Athletic News 26December 1893

At Middlesbrough yesterday, in a gale of wind and rain before 2,000 spectators. The “nops,” with the wind scored after two good attempts, Grewar getting the ball through with a long, swift, shot. Tolson soon equalised. In the second half Newcastle pressed hard, but could not break down the splendid defense of the “Nops,” and the game ended

IRONOPOLIS...............................................................................1 GOAL

NEWCASTLE UNITED..............................................................1 GOAL

26 December 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Lincoln City 2
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 3

Athletic News 1 January 1894

LINCOLNSHIRE ECHOES

--- --- ---

THE LUCK OF THE GAME

LINCOLN CITY have during the Christmas matches had a run of the most disspiriting bad luck, ..... here follows notes on Lincoln v Burton Swifts...... In the match on the following Tuesday against Middlesbrough Ironopolis matters almost came to an unpleasant climax, and might have culminated into a disturbance, which would have done great harm to the game in Lincoln, and also compulsorily closed John o’ Gaunt’s for a week or two. Lincoln were fighting against the odds, having lost three of their best men, and two of the scratch lot which had been got together for the match were far from well; but they made a plucky fight, and the contest with Middlesbrough Ironopolis generated a lot of excitement, the big crowd present soon finding their voices when, unfortunately, the referee--- whose youth and inexperience largely excuses--- lost his head entirely at a time when a firm hand and clear, cool decisions were necessary. The queerness of Mr. Dale’s decisions irritated both sides, and completely spoiled the temper of the spectators; and although his ruling gave Middlesbrough Ironopolis the game with the official score at 3-2, the visitors themselves all round did not scruple to admit that they had lost, and only mistaken ruling gave them the verdict. The position of the ruling official is such a difficult one that undoubtedly annoying as the results are, his loss of balance should not be too severely censured, and it is very possible that, under calm and unexciting conditions, his knowledge of the game would carry him safely through; but one thing is certain, Mr. Dale is much too young to inspire confidence and respect in the ordinary run of First or Second League players, and I am afraid his lack of a strong personality will generally tell against him. Had Lincoln been able to keep their men right through the three matches there is no doubt that they would easily have scored three points, although on Saturday and Tuesday they did not play anything like so well as they might have done.

NOTES FROM THE NORTH

TEES-SIDE

The “Nops’” performance in beating Lincoln City on John o’ Gaunt’s Ground on Boxing Day was a clever bit of  work, and highly creditable to the players. From accounts to hand the referee, Mr. Dale, ordered two of the City players off the field, but they refused to go.

30 December 1893, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 1
Walsall Town Swifts 1

Athletic News 1 January 1894
A fairly good “gate,” as gates go here now-a-days, assembled to witness the second match between Ironopolis and Walsall Town. The latter are evidently a much improved team, judging by their capable display of last Saturday, for they undoubtedly had somewhat the best of the exchanges against the home team, especially in the first half. They managed to score the first goal after Warner, their goalkeeper, had executed several brilliant saves, but the “Nops” responded with a goal before half-time from a fierce bully in the Walsall goal mouth. This was all either team managed to do before the interval. Unfirtunately for the “Nops,” they had to do without the sevices of Upton, their outside right, during the greater part of the second moiety, he having had his collar-bone broken in a charge. This severely handicapped them but the backs and halves played up manfully, and on the whole they may be said to have had slightly the best of the argument. Warner being called upon to save some ugly shots, but that agile custodian was ever on the alert, several of his saves being magnificent. His vis-a-vis, Ord, too, was by no means idle, and he was equally as safe as the old Villa man, the result being a drawn game one goal each.

--- --- ---

A conspicuous feature of the Walsall team was the defence of Warner and Bailey (the right back), both being in grand trim. Cook at centre-half was also to the fore, and altogether too good for Mooney, the home centre, who played a wretched game. The forwards displayed really good combination, the veteran “Joe” Lofthouse being in tip-top form. The “Nops” defence was safe, Ord in goal, and Oliver at back, being in good form, and it was well for them that the latter was, or the old Blackburn Rover would, without doubt, have augmented the Walsall score. Allport was the best of the halves; but Grewar and McNair worked very hard to slave off defeat, and to assist the forwards. The latter contingent were in shocking bad form, Mooney’s display being wretched in the extreme, and, unless he can improve upon last Saturday’s performance, he will speedily find himself non est. Hunt and Hunter worked hard, but somehow the forward play was altogether without method, being ragged and fitful, whilst cohesion was seldom attempted.

1 January 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 3
Burslam Port Vale 1

Athletic News 8 January 1894
Fairburn, the Stockton lad who assisted Ironopolis against Port Vale last Monday, will be heard more of anon. He is a very smart player. --The “Nops” showed capital form against Port Vale, and had it not been for the grand goal-keeping of McKay --the old Middlesbrough custodian-- they would have put up a record score for the second division. His play was simply marvellous, but his old foes managed to defeat him three times, and won by three goals to one.

2 January 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Newcastle 7
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 2 (Cooper +)

Athletic News 8 January 1894
The “Nops” defeat at Newcastle did not create much surprise amongst their followers, because they were minus McNair, Bell, Wallace, and Mooney, all of whom are on the injured list. They were assisted by Coulthard, of Marske, and Cooper, of South Bank, two local amateurs. The latter played a clinking game, and scored one of the goals from a lovely run.

6 January 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 2 (Coulthard, Adams)
Crewe Alexandra 0

Athletic News 8 January 1894
Arctic weather prevailed here on Saturday, and very few people turned out to witness the game between Crewe Alexandra and Ironopolis. Both teams were weak, the “Nops” having to play Oliver and Wallace, both of whom were dead lame. Operations were commenced in about four inches of snow, which greatly militated against good play. However, considering the surroundings, a fairly good game was witnessed, both sides working hard under difficulties. The “Nops” scored twice in the first half, through Coulthard and Adams, both being the result of good play on the part of Mooney, who was removed from the centre to inside left, in which position he showed good form.

--- --- ---

The second half was keenly contested, but the snow retarded the efforts of both teams and caused the game to drag somewhat at intervals. The “Nops” banged the ball past Hickton soon after the restart, but some one had interfered with that agile young man, and the point was vetoed by the referee. Nothing further was done, and the game ended in a win for the home team by two goals to none. The fine defence of Crewe saved them from a much heavier defeat, Hickton in goal being a tower of strength to his side. The same remark applies to the backs, Cope being especially prominent with smart tackling and clever kicking. The home goalkeeper had very little to do, but Oliver, in spite of his lameness, played with that dogged determination which characterises his play, and was ably seconded by Grewar, who went from centre half to full back. McNair and Grey -- a reserve lad -- were the best of the halves. The latter showed promise of developing into a player of ability. Mooney was decidedly the pick of the forwards, the remainder, if I except Coulthard, playing in a palpable go-as-you-please style, whilst the shooting, on the whole, was painfully weak and badly directed considering the many chances they had.

=== === === === === === === === ===

13 January 1894. Ironopolis are double booked! A League match at home to Lincoln City and a Cleveland Senior Cup tie at home to Stockton. So the cup tie is switched to Stockton and the reserve team sent.

13 January 1894 Cleveland Senior Cup
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0
Stockton 5,  Played at Stockton

Athletic News 15 January 1894
There was a capital attendance last Saturday to witness the cup-tie on the Victoria ground, Stockton, and what may fairly termed a good game resulted. The most sanguine never anticipated a win for the “Nops” reserve, for the “Ancients” have made a vow to win the Senior Cup this season, but no one expected a five goal to nil defeat. There was no score at half time, “Jack having been about as good as his master.” The “Nops” made a huge mistake in moving Garland from the centre in the second half, for he was playing a fine game in that position. I hear that he was moved without the captain’s knowledge. Who was responsible for the action? The “Nops” custodian had his collar bone broken, but would insist upon resuming, the result being that he was beaten four times just before the close of the game. I must compliment Stockton upon their fine performance. They will take some reckoning with before the old “pro” cup finds a resting place.

13 January 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division.
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0
Lincoln City 0

Athletic News 15 January 1894
Lincoln City visited Middlesbrough for the second time since the “Nops” came into existence, their mission being to play the return League match with the “Washers,” and to try and wipe out the defeat which the latter administered to them at Lincoln, and this they partially succeeded in accomplishing by effecting a draw with their former conquerors. The “Cits” have the reputation of being able to play a good game away from home, and there is no denying the fact that they fully maintained the aforesaid reputation. They played a clipping good game, being infinitely superior to the “Nops” in forward play. It will sound strange, no doubt, when I say that both sides had hard lines in not achieving victory, yet such was the case. The “Nops” got the ball into the net on one occasion, but as Hunter “rubbed shoulders” with the City keeper Mr. Stacy negatived the goal.

--- --- ---

The game was a real good one, always fast, and certainly fraught with intense excitement, especially upon several occasions when both sides came within an ace of scoring. Neither custodian was troubled much, but the backs and halves on both sides had heaps of work. The two veterans, Quintin Neill on one side and Jack Oliver on the other, played in champion form, in fact the old Wearsider was the best man on the field. The city forwards did well, their play being marked by method from start to finish, and they were ably assisted by the halves, who were conspicuous for judicious following up. The “Nops” forwards were ragged in the extreme, and made little attempt at combination, whilst the halves, although working hard throughout, failed to back up, and so allowed a big “Gap” to exist between themselves and the men in front.

=======================================

27 January 1894, English Cup
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 2 (Hunt, Adams)
Luton Town 1 (Dimmock)

Athletic News 29 January 1894
The day was fine, but the wind blew a perfect hurricane. Ironopolis were fortunate in the spin of the coin, and the teams faces each other as follows:--

IRONOPOLIS -- R Ord, goal; J Bell and J Oliver,
backs; D McNair, Gray, and Allport, half-backs;
Adams, Hunt, Moonie, Grewar, and Hunter, forwards.

LUTON TOWN -- E Bee, goal; J Wilson and W
Chester, backs; J Watkins, J W Julian, and A H
Taylor, half-backs R Brown, J Finlayson, H Galbraith,
F Allen, and J Dimmock, forwards

Referee: Mr Strawson, Lincoln.

It will thus be seen that the home side were minus the services of Wallace, one of their smartest forwards, who was on the injured list. The Luton team contained several faces well known in Middlesbrough, viz., Galbraith and Finlayson, both of whom formerly played for Ironopolis and Middlesbrough respectively, whilst Wilson, the right back, is a Middlesbrough lad. Galbraith started for Luton, but the “Nops” at once went to the front and from a sharp shot by Grewar Wilson nearly put through his own goal. The home lot continued to press vigorously but hands in goal relieved the pressure for a time. However, they returned to the attack and found Bee any amount of work, but that agile young man was not to be beaten without showing fight, and time after time repelled shots which seemed certain to score. The visitors could make no headway in the teeth of the gale, “rude Boreas” being more than they could negotiate, and his playful tactics often nonplussed the Luton men. Hunter, who was showing good form for Ironopolis, centered splendidly, and Hunt meeting the ball crashed it into the net with terrific force, Bee having no chance. Down came the ball again from the centre, and corner followed corner in rapid succession, but the sphere went anywhere but between the sticks -- on the top of the net, against the ends, and high over the crossbar, but through it would not go, for when it was directed straight home the watchful Bee was always on the alert, and successfully negotiated it. The tremendous pressure on the visitor’s stronghold was at last rewarded with something more tangible than the insignificant corner, Oliver centering in champion style, and this time Adams met the ball and banged it out of the reach of the custodian. The “Nops” pressed hard up to the interval, but without result, and the usual breathing time found the “Nops” two goals to the good -- not a big margin considering the gale they had to face. Luton were only over the half-way line three times whilst the “Nops” took no fewer than thirteen corners. The wind abated considerably in the second half, and the Ironopolis wisely relegated Grewar to his own place at centre-half, Gray, the reserve lad, going forward. The Lutonians at once pressed and Dimmock sent in a long dropping shot which registered goal number one inside five minutes. Play the veered alternately from goal to goal, for now that the wind had gone down a little the “Nops” forged gallantly ahead, and Bee was called upon to defend. Once Hunt had the goal at his mercy, but shot high over the bar, to the greatest relief, I should say, of the Luton goalkeeper. Both sides experienced hard lines, and the play was almost as much in favour of one as the other, thanks to the kind consideration of “Boreas.” The end came with the laurels of victory resting with the Teessiders by two goals to one. The game, considering the fierce wind, may be said to have been a good one, both sides playing with great determination throughout. Bee behaved splendidly for the visitors, and his dexterity kept down what would have been a big score. The backs were both reliable, Wilson for preference, whilst the halves were ever on the alert, the veteran Taylor being as good as any of them. The forwards are not so smart as the “Nops” quintette, and if I except Demmock, who played a good game, and Allan, the remainder were nowhere, Galbraith being very disappointing -- but perhaps the watchful Grewar had something to do with his poor display. Ord had not a great deal to do for the home side, and ought to have stopped the simple-looking customer he allowed to beat him. Oliver was in champion form, and was a thorn in the side of the Luton men all through. Bell did well in the second half, but mulled badly once or twice in the first. All the halves were clever, Grewar and McNair being the pick; whilst forward Hunt took premier honours, closely followed by Hunter. The rest were fairly good.

3 February 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Grimsby 2 (Ackroyd, Riddoch)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Athletic News 5 February 1894

LINCOLNSHIRE ECHOES

A FRUITLESS JOURNEY

was made by the “Nops” to Abbey Park, for, although this Middlesbrough combination arrived in Grimsby on Friday evening, and therefore had no tiring railway ride from the North on the morning of the match, they had once more to acknowledge the supremacy of the “Ancient Mariners,” who beat them pointless by a couple of goals, thereby adding two more points to their credit in the League Competition. The game was never in doubt after it was seen that the visitors had to face a strong nor’-easter and a dazzling sun at the commencement. In spite of a solid defence and brilliant goal-keeping, Grimsby gained the upper hand. True, they were half-an-hour in “drawing blood,” but this was through wretchedly poor shooting -- an exceptional proceeding I must admit. Ackroyd, after many misses, made his mark out of a loose scrummage, caused by a good shot dropped into goal by Frith; this was followed by a second success from Riddoch’s foot --a very narrow shave of being a miss also. This was all the scoring prior to the interval, and the “fishermen” had secured anything but a substantial lead, though, as it turned out, it was sufficient for the occasion, and added just as many points as would have been the result of a much greater victory.

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The second period of play was disappointing, so far as the visitors were concerned, for they seemed quite disjointed in their attack, and utterly unable to break down the sterling defence of the home team. It is never a sign of strength born of unity of action when you hear backs yelling out to forwards and forwards retaliating upon the backs, as was the case with the visitors during this portion of the game. There were flashes of individual capability displayed, but co-operation was not a conspicuous feature of their mode of attack. Hence their complete failure against the capable and reliable home defence. BIG TOM

NOTES FROM THE NORTH

TEES-SIDE

Considering that Grimsby romped home so easily at Middlesbrough in their encounter with Ironopolis, the score last Saturday of two goals to none was by no means a disheartening performance on the part of the Tees-siders. The “Nops,” I understand, played a splendid defensive game, Oliver and Ord showing to great advantage. I cannot conceive a team that would be harder to defeat on its own ground than Grimsby; therefore, under the circumstances, I yhink the Northerners deserve every credit for playing them such a close game.

10 February 1894 English Cup
Notts Forest 2 (Brodie, Higgins)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Officials Mr. T. Armitt, Messrs. Ormerod and Lowler

Athletic News 12 February 1894

IRONOPOLIS KNOCKED OUT AT

NOTTINGHAM.

[BY TRENTSIDER.]

Almost since the beginning of the New Year an unaccountable change seems to have come over Notts Forest, and in place of the brilliant and bold team they used to be they are now one quite of an ordinary character. There is a looseness about their style, and the result is that they have to scramble hard to get a goal. Over anxiety appears to spoil the defence, and the forwards are suffering from the absence of McInnes, and illness in other cases. McInnes makes a wonderful difference in the eleven, and I am pleased to know that he is recovering from his injuries very nicely. At a pinch he would have played on Saturday, but as it was thought that Middlesbrough Ironopolis could be accounted for without him, it was decided to give him a chance of making a perfect recovery. The visitors had of course to the field without the suspended Wallace, but in other respects they were strongly represented, as the following list shows :--

NOTTS FOREST. -- D Allsopp, goal; A Ritchie and A Scott, backs; A Stewart, J McPherson and P
McCracken, half-backs; A Higgins, H Pike, W Smith, J Collins, and J Brodie, forwards.

MIDDLESBROUGH IRONOPOLIS. -- R Ord, goal; J Oliver and J Bell, backs; H Allport, J Grewar,
and D McNair, half-backs; F Hunt, W Adams, G S Nokes, T Hunter, and Coulthard, forwards.

Referee: Mr T Armitt (Leek).

There were 7,000 spectators, and they gave expression to their feelings of satisfaction when they saw that Higgins had won the toss, and had decided to play with th gale of wind in his favour. Under these conditions play was naturally nearly altogether at the visitor’s end during the first half. The Forest commenced with considerable dash, and numerous shots were made, but the visitors realised that defence was the order of the day for them until they crossed over, and they looked after their goal very cleverly. After twelve minutes, however, they were completely beaten. Collins put in a high fine shot, and when Ord fisted out Brodie met the ball, and sent through. The “reds” did not play so well afterwards. They were constantly in front, but the shooting generally was much below the real standard. Nokes, the visitors’ centre, tried to assist them by putting into his own goal with an overhead kick, but Ord kept out, and he also stopped those shots which were occasionally made by the Foresters. McPherson once kicked against one of the posts, and the forwards were slow in not getting on the ball as it passed right in front of the goal. Corner kicks came to the home team in abundance, but they were of no use whatever, and it was actually with a sigh of relief that the spectators saw the visitors break away. Hunter and Coulthard led them, and they pressed McPherson so hard that he was glad to concede a corner. The Middlesbrough men were not allowed to remain in front long, but when the Forest returned they were as helpless to score as they had been before. One scrummage very close in appeared certain to yield a point, but the ball for the second time went against one of the posts, and was then kicked away. Half-time arrived and the outlook was therefore not a very rosy one for the Forest. They, however, soon showed that they have not lost all their form. Pike infused life among the for wards, and some of the prettiest runs seen on the ground for some time were made by him, first with Brodie, then with Collins, and again with both. On one occasion Nokes got past Ritchie, and he had a rare chance, but Allsopp saved. As a rule play was in the Forest half, though the visitors were not particularly dangerous, and when they did now and then get in with a good shot Allsopp had never much difficulty in clearing. Half an hour had gone by when Pike made one of his dashing runs, and a splendid centre across the goal gave Higgins the desired opportunity. He immediately shot through on the ground before Ord was well aware of the fact, and so the “reds” scored their second goal. This appeared to knock all the spirit out of the visitors , and they only got in front about once afterwards. The effort was not a great one, ad was easily nullified. So were the remaining attempts of the Foresters, who entered the third round by two goals to none. The play of the home team was redeemed from mediocrity by Pike, and he is to be highly complimented upon his really fine display in the second half. When he did start with his dashing runs he found Collins and Brodie quite ready to support him, and the passing of the three was a treat more than once. “Tich” Smith and Higgins did not make a very strong right wing, but this is not surprising seeing that they have played together so little of late. The captain, too, is always seen at a better advantage inside than out on the wing. The half backs were hardly so good as they usually are, McCracken in particular being off-colour, and at back Ritchie also got flurried. The half-back line of the visitors probably put in better work than the other divisions, though the defence all round could not be grumbled at. Hunter distinguished himself most amongst the forwards, putting in several clever runs.

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24 February 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 3
Woolwich Arsenal 6 (Oliver og +5)

Athletic News 26 February 1894
The “Nops” cannot get away from the trail of ill-luck which has pursued them without intermission during the present season. Last Saturday they anticipated a good gate on the occasion of the Woolwich Arsenal’s visit, but the clerk of the weather seems to have taken an antipathy to them. A short time before the kick-off snow came down thick and fast, the result of which was an attendance of a meagre description. Ironopolis turned out in full strength, but on the wretchedly soft ground and against a strong wind they could do nothing with the “Gunners,” who played splendidly in the mud, and at half-time led by four to none. The wind subsided considerably in the second half, and they had nearly as much of the play as the Ironopolis, who scored three goals to the Arsenal’s two, the latter winning by six goals to three. The visitors played splendidly, and adapted themselves to the soft ground in a remarkably clever manner. They undoubtedly played the best game by chalks, and fully deserved to win. The forwards manipulated the ball in grand style, their movement being quick, decisive, and full of method. Shaw, the centre, was a treat, and is without doubt the best man in that position that has been seen on the “Nops” pitch this season. Crawford and Henderson were also conspicuous for sterling play, as was Boyle at centre half. The backs were likewise seen to advantage. Oliver, on the home side, had the misfortune to score for the Arsenal, otherwise he played a good game. Hunt, McNair, and Cooper were the only remaining players who could do anything in the mud.

3 March 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 2
Northwich Victoria 1

Athletic News 5 March 1894

TEESSIDE

The attendance last Saturday on the occasion of the visit of Northwich Victoria, was again of a limited character, and I am afraid financial Secretary Merley’s task would not be of a stupendous nature. However, the gathering was on a par with the game, which was poor in the extreme. The game could not be termed a rought one, yet throughout it was fraught with mean, dirty, and despicable tricks such as we find, but should not find, a place in our great pastime. Both sides were equally to blame, nor did the “dirtiness” disappear when Adams, of ironopolis, was ordered off the field for kicking the left half back of the Northwich team --a very harsh and premature decision on the part of the referee, Mr. Grundy.

--- --- ---

The “Nops,” on the whole, had much the best of the exchanges. The splendid back pair of Postles and Scanlan and the admirable goalkeeping of Hornby alone saved the “saltmen” from being salted in an unpalatable manner. The score of two goals to one is not a fair index of the game, the Ironopolis having most of the attack, and in spite of the excellent defence of the “Vics,” they must have added perceptibly to their goal account had all the chances been taken. With the exception of the players named above, together with Oliver, Bell, Grewar, and Hunter on the home side, the remainder were nowhere?

10 March 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Woolwich Arsenal 1 (Shaw)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Athletic News 12 March 1894

SOUTHERN NOTES BY grasshopper

Slowly but surely the Arsenal are going up in the League competition, and they betered their position by a couple of points on Saturday when they beat Middlesbrough Ironopolis by a goal to nothing after a capitally contested game. There was an excellant attendance, despite the counter-attraction at the Rectory Field, some 5,000 or more people being on the ground. There was a great wind blowing from the Arsenal end of the ground, of which the visitors, who won the toss, took advantage. The early part of the game was all in favour of the Northerners, whose play, from my point of view, was somewhat rough. After about 15 minutes, from a long drop kick Shaw rushed up, and taking the ball on the “half volley,” scored the first, and, as it turned out, the only goal scored in the match. The Woolwich men played splendidly. They did not try and force the game against the wind, and when they crossed over they failed, though they had the best of the play, to break through the visitors defence. It is not often we see two better matched teams, and, though the Arsenal cannot be said to have had much the advantage, I am inclined to think that the best side on the day at any rate proved successful. They still stuck to their regular forwards, and once more young Bryan showed what a useful man he is.

14 March 1894 Jack Oliver benefit match
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0
Sunderland 3

Athletic News 19March 1894

TEES-SIDE

Last Wednesday evening Oliver, the popular “Nops” player, took his benefit. Sunderland were the visitors, and a pleasant game, but for poor Dalton’s accident, resulted, the home side having almost as much of the play as the strong  Wearside contingent, but failed to penetrate the superb defence of Doig, Gibson, and Porteus, whilst on the other hand the visitors scored three goals and won by that number to none. I understand that Oliver will benefit to the tune of about £50 --not at all bad, but scarcely realising expectations.
FORWARD

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WEARSIDE

The match at Middlesbrough last Wednesday between Sunderland and Ironopolis for the benefit of Oliver drew an attendance variously estimated at from 1,000 to 3,000, though it is curious to notice such a difference in the estimate of what, after all, was a mere handful of spectators. I hope, for Oliver’s sake, that the larger number was the correct one. Another strange conflict took place between the scribes as to the actual score. Some --and they are borne out by the Wearsiders --said Sunderland won by three goals to nothing; others would have it that the score was two goals to nothing. I know that I sometimes have a beam in my own eye, and I don’t want to point the mote in my professional brethren’s optics on Tees-side, but if you will report matches, gentlemen, do give us the correct result.

--- --- ---

The game was marred by an unfortunate accident to a most unlucky player, Dalton. It was only the third or forth time that he has assisted the first team during the present season; at Sheffield to begin with, he got into a row; then came his accident at Blackburn which invalided him for months. It was hoped that the long rest had completely restored him, and he was tried against the ‘Nops. However the old weakness, a bad knee, soon disclosed itself; he fell and had to be carried off the field, and it is certain that Dalton will play no more football for the remainder of the season, and not at all sure that he will ever play for any team again. I am truly sorry for him.
TOM TIDDLER

17 March 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Burton Swifts 7 (Bogie, Walker, Munro 2, West, unknown 2)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Athletic News 19 March 1894

ASSOCIATION NOTES

IRONOPOLIS BADLY BEATEN AT BURTON

Middlesbrough Ironopolis made their debut at Burton on Saturday, when they played their return League fixture with the Swifts. The game opened in a peculiar matter, for from the kick-off Ekins sprinted down, and his centre being handled by one of the visitors’ backs, a penalty kick was awarded, which Bogie shot outside, but the Swifts were soon to the fore, a centre by Walker being rushed through. During the first half the play was all in favour of the home team, and although Ord and Oliver did some excellent defensive work, Bogie, Walker, and Munro were responsible for three further goals before half-time. In the second portion the visitors were still overplayed, and in the first few minutes the Swifts scored a fifth point from a srcrummage. The game still went all in the home club’s favour, and Munro scored the sixth goal, whilst from a corner West headed a seventh, and in the end the Swifts won by that number to nothing. The game was a most one-sided throughout, which is proved by the fact that the Swifts’ custodian only to act in defence of his goal on three occasions. The home team all played well, but were somewhat slack at the finish, Hackett (back), West and Birch (halves), and Ekins, Rowan, and Walker (forwards) being all seen to advantage, whilst for the visitors Ord (goal), Oliver (back), McNair and Grewar (halves), and Adams, Gardner, and Hunter (forwards) were most conspicuous.

24 March 1894 Friendly
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 2 (Dixon 2)
St.Mirren 1

Athletic News 26 March 1894
It was the initial visit of the powerful Paisley team to the Ironopolis happy hunting ground, and though they played a clinking good game, they could not overcome the home side, who rose to the occasion, and by a capable all round display of football caused the “Saints” to leave their scalps behind them. In other words, the “Nops” won a good game by two goals to one. The visiting custodian, Patrick, and his backs showed admirable defence throughout, as also did the centre half, whilst Taylor, Wyllie, and Mullin, amongst the forwards, put in a lot of smart and clever play. The combination of the visitors was certainly superior to that of the home lot, but the latter played with grim determination, and fully deserved the clever victory. Oliver and NcNair were the best amongst the home defenders, the latter giving us a bit of his old form. Dixon was the shining light amongst the forwards, all of whom worked hard and well. Costello and Hunter were also responsible for some capital play.

31 March 1894 Friendly
Newcastle United 3
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 0

Athletic News 2 April 1894
Newcastle United had Middlesbrough Ironopolis for their opponents on Saturday. Saltry weather prevented fast play, but the Tees-siders were outclassed throughout, and were rarely dangerous, the local custodian having only five shots to stop during the whole of the game. Nothing was scored up to the interval, but in the second half Newcastle got through three times, and had it not been for the capital play of Ord in goal, a very large score would have been run up against the Ironopolis. “Dowk” Oliver (back) played fairly well at times for the losers, but was unnecessarily rough at times, and the way he fouled Willie when the latter had him fairly beaten, raised the ire of the crowd. United have scored 12 goals against four in three engagements against Ironopolis this season, and have won twice and drawn once.
THE LINESMAN

7 April 1894, THE LEAGUE -- Second Division
Northwich Victoria 2 (Bailey 2)
Middlesbrough Ironopolis 1 (Coulthard)

Athletic News 9 April 1894

ASSOCIATION NOTES
------
LEAGUE, -- SECOND DIVISION,
------
A WIN FOR NORTHWICH VICTORIA.

The crowd who assembled on the Nortwich ground on Saturday witnessed one of the best games played by the Victoria team this season, their opponants being Middlesboro’ Ironopolis, a much heavier body of men. The home eleven had to face a rather dazzling sunshine, but in the opening stages they were exceedingly lively, and led the visitors a merry dance. Hatton, the outside left winger, was in rare form, and put in some beautiful shots, and within six minutes of the start Bailey scored off his caput amid loud cheers. After a while, Ironopolis changed the venue, and the Victoria goal was in considerable danger, but Hornby, the custodian, and the backs were very smart. A grand run by Hatton transferred operations to the stranger’s quarters, where the warfare was carried on with great determination, but, thanks to a splendid defence, further disaster was averted. Ten minutes before half-time Middlesbrough obtained a fluky goal through Coulthard, and five minutes later, after a pretty display of passing on the part of the forwards, Bailey (who gad been disabled for ten minutes) once more netted the ball, the “Vics.” leading by two goals to one when the whistle soynded for the adjournment. After crossing over the N