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Episode 23 - 1921-22 The worst season ever until NOW

DoDTS

The PL League Boss⭐⭐
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Episode 1 - 1921-22 The worst season ever until NOW

Before we start looking at the day to day goings of our beloved football club it’s worth thinking about the situation in 1921 particularly in view of the current situation with the Coronavirus.

The horrors of the First World War 1914-1919 are well documented but the casualties are estimated at between 20.5 million and 22 million, of which about half were military personal the other half were civilian largely dying from famine and disease.

If that wasn’t bad enough there was a Flu Pandemic from 1918 to December 1920 (Spanish Flu) the death total from this is estimated anywhere between 11.5 million and 50 million and some even go as high 100 million.


So with the world struggling to get to terms with all this you would have thought that football was the last thing on peoples minds, but one thing that the returning troops wanted to keep their football clubs alive. Season 1919-20 saw Southend United in the Southern League but the entire Division was transferred to the Third Division in 1920-21 which now brings us to Season 1921-22………………...

UNITED BALANCE SHEET
In preparation for the annual meeting the annual report and balance sheet for the Southend United club has just been issued. The report states that the share holders are to be congratulated upon the financial success of the company during the past season which has resulted in a net profit of £371 10s 1d (£371.50) which is carried forward. The results from a playing standpoint were in many respects disappointing although the players are to be commended for their success in the Football association Cup competition which resulted in the club reaching the third round for the first time, ultimately being beaten by winners of the cup.


INTERESTING INFORMATION
The profit and loss account for the season contains some interesting and illuminating information which spectators and supporters would do well to bear in mind. Despite record receipts, the clubs unprecedented success in the English Cup and the excellent weather which favoured home gates, the outstanding feature of the balance sheet, is that but for the amount received in Transfer fees the club would not have paid it’s way last season. The sum received for players transfers was £3,922 0s 9d (£3,922.04) and even allowing for £3,196 2s 3d (£3,196.13) spent on ground maintenance and improvements - not likely to recur to anything like this extent for some years - there is still a considerable deficiency. When criticising the management and Directors for not embarking on a more enterprising policy for the future, supporters must not lose sight of the fact that they themselves have not as yet made the club self supporting. It is up to them by increased attendance to do so.
From the Southend Standard 25th August 1921

As always the expectations of the Southend public had been much greater than their achievements and fighting off re-election fears had not gone down at all well. Manager Tom Mather was very much aware of this and did his best to boost the squad with more experienced players, this looking to South Wales as well as the North. However getting in players is one thing, getting them to play well together is another

SEASON TICKETS
The demand for Season Tickets this year is exceptional and a large number of the seats in the centre stand have been disposed of. Spectators this season will appreciate that their seats are numbered and reserved for them so that they may occupy the same seats all season. The seats for the centre stand are £3 12s 6d and for the ground £1 2s 6d including tax. The plan of the stand can be seen at the ground or at a local stationer in Victoria Avenue.
From the Southend Standard 18th August 1921

To give some idea of these prices before the war in 1914 the minimum wage was 16/9d (84p) for a 58 hour week, wages and inflation reaching a peak in the summer of 1921 when the minimum wage was £2 6s 10d (£2.34), but wages dropped dramatically to £1 13s 9d (£1.69) in a short space of time, although this was now for a 50 hour week. A pint of beer had been 3d before the war rose to 5d just after the war and by 1921 had risen again to 7d.

So basically the working man had more time or his hands for entertainment, admission to the Kursaal at 1/- (5p) was cheaper than two pints of beer at 1/2d (6p), a standing season ticket (£1.13p) was about half the minimum weekly wage (£2.34) while a seat in the stand was about a week and a halves wages.
So at the start of the season prices were very reasonable, but a depression was on it’s way

TEAM PREPARATION

Of the previous season’s players, Jimmy Evans, Tom Capper, Blakey Martin, George Nicholls, Henage Wileman, Harry Allen, James Lawson, Tommy Nuttall and Harry Baldwin had been retained. However Joe Dorset and Joe Walters had both joined Millwall, Arthur Whalley had moved on to Charlton and Andrew Newton had been transferred to Accrington, also Bob Reid and Jim Henderson had left the club. The side needed rebuilding and in May 1921 Fred Halstead and Stephen Howard were both signed from Blackpool. In June 1921 Stan Dellow was signed from Bradford City, Billy Evans from Swansea, David Reid from Aston Villa, Tommy Jones from Bristol City and an amateur from Leigh Ramblers Henry White. In July 1921 Fred Harris joined from Swansea, Billy Kettle from Ebbw Vale, Alex Elliott from Wigan Borough, Billy Ruddock from the Wednesday and another amateur Syd Jefferies. One more signing followed in August 1921 George Lawrence also signed from Darlington. It was a lot of new signings it remained to be seen how they would perform.

THE PLAYERS

Goalkeepers
.Tom Capper had been retained with Joe Hall for cover.
Full Backs .The consistent Jimmy Evans had been retained and joined by Stan Dellow and Billy Evans
Centre Half
, Two new centre halves were signed George Lawrence and Fred Halstead.
Half Backs, Henage Wileman and Blakey Martin were supported by new signing Bob Reid.
Wingers
Harry Baldwin had been retained with new Signings Billy Kettle, Fred Harris and Harry Allen.
Inside Forwards Tommy Nuttall had been retained and new signing Stephen Howard
Centre Forward
. New signings Billy Ruddock supported by amateurs Alf Flowers and Henry White

PRE-SEASON

Pre season friendlies were usually in house affairs, Blues v Whites or Blues v Stripes, but as a contest they were lacking both as a stern test for the players or as real entertainment for the spectators. They would more often than not be two matches the first one experimental with a few amateurs thrown into the pot, and the second the probable first team against the best of what was left.

13th August 1921
As a curtain raiser for the system, a trial match for amateurs was arranged with the Blues v Stripes at the Kursaal and was well attended by about 1,500 spectators despite the heavy rain of the morning and early afternoon. The Blues were convincing winners by 6-1 in an entertaining if somewhat crude match, but of course the Blues had no reserve team the preceding season.

22nd August 1921
The second friendly was the Blues, who were the possible first team played the Stripes, who were the remainder of the squad and a few Amateurs. After a decidedly tame exhibition the blues won by two goals to one.

Moderate and lacking in incident exchanges were the outstanding features. It was obvious that some of the men were not displaying form of the standard required. I do not consider that the material that the club has at its disposal at the present is sufficiently to make a successful match winning side.
From the Southend Standard 25th August 1921”

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Many dozen times or so this season I have been asked my personal opinion of the prospects of the United club for the tournament at which we now stand on the threshold. The answer has always been “you can’t tell how they will shape until you see them against strong opposition
From the Southend Standard 25th August 1921

Next Monday Episode 2:
The Season starts
 
Last edited:
Episode 2: The Season starts
Saturday 27th August 1921
BRIGHTON & HOVE ALB. 0-0 SOUTHEND UNITED
The opening match of the season was against Brighton, as it was the previous season but at the Goldstone Ground this year. Brighton had finished one place behind the Blues in the previous season, level on points but with a slightly inferior goal average. At home Brighton had only lost four of their twenty one home games The start of the season was keenly anticipated and it was announced that Charabanc trips, with the dual bonus of a trip to see “the attractions of Brighton and the privilege of seeing the opening fixture” at a cost of £1 1s (£1.05). Scores more took advantage of the excellent train excursions to the Sussex Coast. It is difficult to estimate how many Southend supporters were present as the favours of both clubs were Blue and White, but judging by the roar when Wileman lead the Southend team out there must have been a strong contingent. Probably the most important thing on the opening day is not to lose so a goal less draw was a respectable result, in front of a crowd of 9,000, pleasing for United if not the home team who were quite scathing of their comments such as "not exactly thrilling" and someone in the crowd shouted "Poorest display ever seen here", but the players obviously needed time to blend together and the weather was very oppressive. Having taken such a long time to record their first point the previous season to gain one on the opening day was a success in itself. Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans; Wileman, Halstead and Martin; Baldwin, Nuttall, Ruddock, Howard and Elliott

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27th August 1921. Southern league:
Southend United 4-2 Brighton & Hove Albion

The reserves beat Brighton 4-2 at the Kursaal, which considering that Brighton had won the Southern League the previous season was an excellent result in front of 3,000 well satisfied spectators

NEW COLOURS
Since last season the United have changed their colours, and the team looked very smart when they appeared on Saturday in their new garb. Instead of the Royal Blue with black collars and facings they have now white collars like Portsmouth and the white has a nice effect with the Blue
From the Southend Standard 11th September 1921.

TRAIN TRAVEL TO AND FROM BRIGHTON
We are getting back to more like a pre-war system of travelling and leaving Brighton at 5.45 on Saturday evening I was enabled to get back to Southend by 8.30 including travelling across London from Victoria to Fenchurch Street. Admittedly one has not to waste much time but I did it with four minutes to spare at Fenchurch Street. At Brighton too, I noted that when all the third class carriages are full on a certain train, only first class passengers are allowed on the platform. Which ensures that people who have gone early may at least travel up to something like decency and comfort, while the first class apartments are reserved for those who pay for them. Will the Midland Company note? From the Southend Standard 11th September 1921

UNSELFISSNESS AND FOOTBALL

A correspondent writes to point out he considers that there was selfishness on the part of certain players at the Reserve match on Saturday and complains that the left wing was absolutely starved. I hope the selectors will take in view that some members could not show up to the usual standard because of this selfishness and will take these points into consideration when selecting the team for forthcoming matches.
From Southend Standard 8th September 1921
Monday29th August 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-1 BRENTFORD

Brentford had finished second from bottom the previous term and had been forced to apply for re-election, in the opening game they had lost at Merthyr 0-1 so optimism was high for the opening encounter at the Kursaal for the season. The attendance was a record for a midweek game at the Kursaal, apart from Holiday times with 6,441 paying on the day and with season ticket holders over 7,000 were present. Under the circumstances it would be too much to expect a high class game as the ball jumped about like "a parched pea on a hot plate", but the result was probably a just one. Ruddock opened the scoring for the Blues but their was a good call for offside which was waved away by the referee. Brentford had been under considerable pressure during most of the match but when they equalised ten minutes from time it was Southend who were kept on tenterhooks to see if they could retain just the one point.. Two games played two draws. .
Southend were in ninth place in the table. Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans; Wileman, Halstead and Martin; Baldwin, Nuttall, Ruddock, Howard and Elliott.

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Next Monday Episode 3;
Two defeats four games without a win
 
Episode 3;
Two defeats four games without a win

Saturday3th September 1921
No. 3 Division Three (South)
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-2 BRIGHTON & HOVE ALB.
On the previous Wednesday Brighton had travelled to Exeter and won 3-0, although it was early days this win put Brighton up to second in the table, while the United occupied eleventh spot. Brighton took the lead after 25 minutes, and at half time this was probably a fair reflection of the game, the Southend crowd were becoming exasperated by the failings of the Blues forwards until the 70th minute when Harry Baldwin equalised after with a low rising shot. The home spectators were contenting themselves with a third draw, when Brighton headed a second goal, after this it could have been more for Brighton with the United a beaten side well before the end, . Southend dropped down to thirteenth place in the table.
Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans; Wileman, Halstead and Martin; Baldwin, Nuttall, Ruddock, Howard and Elliott

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What the Papers Said:
The eclipse of the Southend team at the hands of a very moderate Brighton eleven, there was no shadow of a doubt about the eclipse for Brighton were greatly the superior side in all departments not through any exceptional prowess on the part of their team, but through the shortcomings of the homesters. One of the most unpleasant sights on Saturday was to see a large proportion of the crowd leaving long before the end of the contest with enthusiasm and interest sadly shaken and with dissatisfied looks and hearty grumbles. One of the very oldest supporters of the club described it as the worst exhibition by any team in the United shirts and I am inclined to agree with him.
From the Southend Standard 8th September 1921

Note: The Brighton goalkeeper was Billy Hayes who later signed for Southend in 1924.

Saturday 3rd September 1921
Southern League:
Brighton Reserves 4-1 Southend Reserves
The reserves travelled to the Goldstone ground with a depleted team, and the Sussex team avenged their opening defeat by beating the junior Blues 1-4. The reserves were without the services of Reid and Jones, but Allen scored early on for the United before Brighton took over.

DEMONSTRATION
Locally there was a demonstration by the unemployed outside the Workhouse at Rochford.

Monday 5th September 1921
No. 4 Division Three (South)
BRENTFORD 1-0 SOUTHEND UNITED
Merthyr had completed the double over Brentford and they had slipped to 20th in the table with just the one point they obtained at the Kursaal. Drastic changes were made, with all five of the forwards being replaced but it certainly showed some improvement, but the Blues lost to a belated goal by the home side. ..
Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans; Wileman, Halstead and Martin; F. Harris, Reid, Flowers, Logan and Kettle.

WHAT THE PAPERS SAID: NARROW LOSS AT BRENTFORD

Though the United lost at Griffin Park on Monday evening, there display was the most satisfactory of the season and inspired more confidence than in their three previous contests. Those enthusiasts who undertook the journey down to the Middlesex County Town will corroborate me in the opinion that it was a vastly different exhibition from that of Saturday. The belated goal by the homesters was hailed with great enthusiasm by the home crowd. There were some hundreds of Southend supporters there, and though they were disappointed that the team did not bring away a point, they were more than pleased at the improvement in the front rank.
From Southend Standard 8th September 1921

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Next Monday Episode 4;
Two Difficult trips to Wales

 
Episode 4;
Two Difficult trips to Wales

No. 5 Third Division (South) - Saturday10th September 1921
SWANSEA TOWN 1-1 SOUTHEND UNITED

Swansea, managed by ex-Southend manager Joe Bradshaw, had had a mixed start to the season winning one, drawing one and losing two of their four games, but Swansea was never an easy trip. Jimmy Evans was injured and had to miss the game, while George Harris sustained an injury five minutes before half time, and the Blues had to play the rest of the game with ten men. Swansea started strongly and had the best of the first half, but the four man forward line of Southend were competing well. But after 57 minutes a Swansea player looked clearly offside but the goal was given, but this didn’t daunt the Blues, four minutes later Henage Wileman equalised with an excellent shot. As the game progressed Southend started to struggle, but the game ended 1-1 in front of a crowd of 14,500. . Southend dropped to seventeenth place in the table.
Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Reid, Nuttall, Logan and Elliott.

Saturday 10th September 1921 - Reserve friendly
Southend Reserves 0-3 Southend and District League.

Less than a thousand people saw the above match at the Kursaal on Saturday and only about half their number saw the League Representatives put on three goals in as about as many minutes towards the close of the game. The remainder of the “gate” had left bored thoroughly wretched display by both sides
From Southend Standard 15th September 1921

No. 6 Third Division (south) -Monday12th September 1921
NEWPORT COUNTY 2-1 SOUTHEND UNITED

Newport had only one won and lost four of their games and were in sixteenth place, and Southend hadn’t lost to Newport in seven meetings. It had rained heavily overnight, although sunshine during the day made it quite soft but the Newport pitch was very bumpy, and not an ideal one. TheBlues were without two players still suffering injuries from Saturdays game. Newport took the lead in the first half through a needless penalty, but shortly afterwards a superbly flighted free kick by Wileman was converted by Blakey Martin with an unstoppable shot. Southend more than held their own but where somewhat unlucky when a wind assisted goal gave the lead back to Newport. In the second half Southend threatened to equalise, but where eventually worn down by Newport and where lucky not to concede more. The crowd was between 5,000 and 6,000 which considering the high unemployment in the area was as good as could be expected. .
Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; Baldwin, Reid, Nuttall, Logan and Elliott

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WELSH SINGERS AT SWANSEA MATCH
For the united game with Swansea next Saturday the Porth Royal Male Welsh Choir will sing on behalf of the Russian Relief Fund. The Southend United Directors have kindly given their support to this urgent call. The choir will start their programme at 2.30 and also sing at half time.
From the Southend Standard 15 September 1921

GREAT EASTERN RAILWAY

It is satisfactory to point out that the Great Eastern Railway Company have started to run excursions for matches at Southend and it is to be hoped that the Midland Company will follow their example. The G.E.R. are running their excursion from Chelmsford at a return fare of 4s or 2s 6d from Shenfield and lesser amounts from Billericay, Wickford and Rochford etc The Train leaves Chelmsford at 1.35 and Shenfield at 2 o’clock.
From Southend Standard 15th September 1921

Note: In all honesty 4s (20p) sounds a lot of money, four times the admission to the ground especially as the country was heading for depression, and I can’t imagine many travelling from Chelmsford by train at these prices.

Next Monday Episode 5
First Win of the Season



 
Episode 5
First Win of the Season

No. 7 Division Three (South) - Saturday 17th September 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-0 SWANSEA TOWN
Six games without a win, three wins and three draws saw the Blues in nineteenth position, just outside of the re-election zone on goal average, but the general feeling after six games was that we had been unlucky. Swansea had beaten the early pacemaker Brighton in mid week and had now moved up to eighth place. A first half goal by Stephen Howard was enough to earn both points for the Blues. We had scored five goals this season all by different goalscorers, the Kursaal crowd had dropped to 6,250, however it did raise us to 15th in the league. .
Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Allen, Nuttall, Howard and Elliott.

Saturday 17th September 1921 - Southern League,
GUILDFORD CITY 4-1 SOUTHEND UNITED Reserves

The Junior Blues had an away game against Guildford City in the Southern League. While the league was largely Third Division reserve teams, there were two or three clubs whose first teams competed, Guildford won 1-4.

NEW PLAYERS
Two more players were signed during September ,James Logan from Plymouth and George Harris a local amateur.

No. 8 Division Three (South) - Saturday 24th September 1921
EXETER CITY 4-1 SOUTHEND UNITED
Exeter had won once and lost six so far and were bottom of the League, they had scored only three goals and conceded seventeen, this match was about as easy as it gets but...

SCIENCE AT A DISCOUNT
The visit to Exeter is always a trying one for Southend for it means travelling from before nine o’clock in the morning until within less than an hour of the game, while by the time the party has returned home at night they have accomplished a journey of 450 miles for the homeward route is the longer way via Bristol. The tediousness of the day is not realised by such a result of that of Saturday. The Exeter ground is all against good open football for it is the most cramped enclosure in the Third division and the touch lines and corner flags converge very close on to the fences making it dangerous for wing and wing men and wing halves. One compliment must be paid to the Exeter crowd and that is that they are a thorough sporting lot, and generally cheered smart things done by their opponents. One wished that were more football crowds like them. That the Blues had some support present was evidenced by voices here and there urging the visitors on. The match was productive of little that is pleasing in spectacular football, Science was at a discount, of aimless kicking, slicing and booting into touch there was a super abundance. The united after the opening five minutes, never looked like winning the match and from this period onwards they were overplayed and their defence kept hard at it.
From Southend Standard 29th September 1921

You have to be quite impressed by the Blues fans that made the long trip to Devon, clearly we were not a good side, we had only won one of seven games and although we were close to the bottom of the table bur Exeter were rock bottom. Perhaps our fans thought we might get something out of the game, if they did think that they were sadly mistaken. .
Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Allen, Nuttall, Howard and Elliott.

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24th September 1921 - Southern League
SOUTHEND UNITED Reserves 2-0 EXETER CITY Reserves

Exeter were the visitors at the Kursaal, It was goal less at half time but the news that the first team were losing seem to inspire the Junior Blues who scored within a minute of the restart and eventually won 2-0 but in front of a disappointing crowd of less than 2,000.

Next Monday Episode 6:
Southend Support Waning
 
Episode 6:
Southend Support Waning

No. 9 Division Three (South) - Saturday 1st October 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 0-1 EXETER CITY.

Exeter’s 4-1 win had taken them off the bottom of the table and they had actually scored more than the Blues, who were just two places and one point in front of the Devon men. The game seemed to be heading for a goal less draw until three minutes from time when a defensive lapse allowed Exeter to score from a rebound off the post. .
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris ,Jones, Nuttall, Flowers and Elliott.

SUPPORT WANING
Meanwhile when everything looked bright for a successful season, when local support and enthusiasm were raised to a pitch never before experienced in the Borough, it is really heart breaking to see it wane to almost vanishing point through not only the non success of the eleven but by their failure to put up a decent fight and produce an entertaining sport. There have been a decided falling off in the attendances at each successive match and on Saturday it fell to about 5,000. Already hundreds of pounds in gate money have been lost by the decrease in interest and judging by the remarks one heard after Saturdays game there will be a further defection of even the most faithful and loyal supporters unless something drastic is done. As stated last week the situation calls for bold and enterprising action on the part of the management.
From Southend Standard 6th October 1921

THE RESERVES
Southern League
: Another bad result for the reserves losing 1-4 at St James Park Exeter, and in midweek they lost heavily again 0-4 at Millwall.

PROGRAMME NOTE
A most welcome two points were obtained at the expense of Swansea and came as a present surprise to our supporters. I guess that I am not inclined to the view that Swansea were unlucky as certainly after the Blues got their goal our forwards showed that had a better idea of as to where the goal lay than did Swansea. From information that I have from the inside I find that the Blues manager has obtained the present team for the grand total of £50. I’m sure that all supporters will agree that although we haven’t done anything extraordinary they have at least justified their outlay. I think one would have to go a long way to find a better defence that we have got and although one finds it continually in print and if it wasn’t for the defence such and such a thing would have happened. I would like to point out that after all the defence is part of the team.
From the Southend v Exeter Programme 1st October 1921

SHIRKING THE TRUTH

It is really remarkable how some people shift and squirm when they are hiding the truth. It is often said that the truth grates more than falsehoods. Evidently someone connected with the United club has a great distaste for it, judging by some recent effusions in the club programme. If the writer thinks that the United supporters are going to be galled by such transparent eye-wash as this is he is mistaking their temper. He ought to get about and mix with the supporters to know their true feelings in the matter and it is expressed in no uncertain terms.
From the Southend Standard 6th October 1921

There was somewhat of a war going on between the Standard and the official club line, the Standard feeling duty bound to tell it as it was opposed to the official propaganda. The standard went on at great length disputing virtually everything said in the statement from the fact that the team cost £50, to not having enough cash to buy players, the Standard stating that Mr. Lidell had got a good team together when the club had farthings to spend not pounds

No. 10 Division Three (South) - Saturday 8th October 1921
MILLWALL 0-0 SOUTHEND UNITED.

With confidence at rock bottom Southend had the first of two fixtures against Millwall who were third in the league, unbeaten at home but had won three and drawn one and only conceded one goal in four games. Southend had dropped to bottom but one place, and Norwich who were a point and place below had a game in hand. More changes were made to the forward line, but to no avail they still failed to score, but at last the defence was solid and the Shrimpers gained a valuable point. . It was quite usual to play a game in October in brilliant sunshine and with the pitch as hard as concrete, and even those sitting in the grandstand were suffering with the heat it must have been intolerable for the players. Yet despite this the game was played a fast pace throughout. Millwall were the better side and probably enjoyed fourth fifths of the play but their marksmanship was poor hence the lack of goals. For some unknown reason the Lions decided to play the “one back game” from the very outset, and as a result Southend were caught offside on numerous occasions. Their was no excuse for this football spoiling subterfuge and the game suffered as a result, but the Blues defence performed admirably in keeping a clean sheet in these circumstances.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; G. Harris, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris Nuttall, Wileman, Hawarden and Kettle.

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RESERVES
Southern League
: At the Kursaal the reserves lost again this time 1-3 against Luton, and again the crowd was below 2,000, not surprising really when the Junior blues results had been as bad as the seniors Because the referee in his decisions did not meet with the approval of the crowd, it became necessary for that official to stop the play ten minutes in the second half and remonstrate with spectators in the West Stand enclosure.

NEW SIGNING
Another forward was signed trying to boost our poor Goalscoring record, Andrew Hawarden from Bolton Wanderers.

Next Monday Episode 7;
A step forward
 
Episode 7; A step forward

No. 11 Division Three (South) - Saturday 15th October 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-1 MILLWALL

Millwall were now fourth in the League, but unusually for the time with a better away record than at home, they also had two former Southend players coming back to haunt them, Joe Dorsett and Joe Walters, and it was inevitably the latter who gave Millwall, (playing in red) the lead. However Southend did everything but score, a goal disallowed, a clear penalty denied and totally dominated the match for the first hour and a quarter and it was George Harris who equalised.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; G. Harris, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Nuttall, Wileman, Hawarden and Kettle.

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ANOTHER STEP FORWARD
Last week in recording the doings of the United at the Den, it was stated in these columns that in the display there was a step forward. Saturday’s exhibition against the Lions, at the Kursaal was another big stride in the same direction. It was not so much the accomplishment of the Blues in drawing against the powerful London combination that pleased the supporters, but the fact that for the first time this season they put up a really good all round exhibition and that with the further strengthening of the inside positions, notably a centre forward, there are hopes of the eleven winning matches and obtaining a fair position in the league. Never before this season have the United team impressed, but against the lions they did so and gave the home crowd something to enthuse over. A few more struggles such as we witnessed Saturday and support and interest will be quickly revived.
From the Southend Standard 20th October 1921

No. 12 Division Three (South) - Saturday 22nd October 1921
GILLINGHAM 1-0 SOUTHEND UNITED.

Gillingham and Southend were level on points only separated by a slight difference in goal average in the Kent sides favour. It was they that won the game by a single goal scored three minutes after half time. The game was played by two teams who were very similar, both good in defence and poor in attack.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, G. Harris and Martin; F. Harris, Reid, Nuttall, Hawarden and Kettle.

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A MANIA FOR OFFSIDE
Southend rarely lack plenty of support when they visit Gillingham, for not only do many local supporters generally take the opportunity of making the journey to Kent but in naval towns the United’s play commands a considerable following from men of the Navy. This was emphasised at Gillingham where there is till considerable rivalry between Gillingham and Chatham. For Saturday’s game two or three large motorboats made the journey across the Estuary and up the Medway, while 200 or 300 preferred the train journey. There were some hundreds of Southend people present and the vocal support they gave their favourites was commendable. The great pity was that the Blues did not give them more cause for more enthusiasm for indeed it was a poor, drab exhibition in keeping with the climatic conditions. An hour before kickoff there was a heavy downpour of rain which caused the playing pitch to be very greasy on the surface, which was hard underneath.

With Gillingham adopting the one back game against the wind, practically every attack by the Blues was nullified by an offside decision. So farcical did the game become that I decided to keep count of the number of times they were penalised for offside and at half time I counted up that they had been given offside on nineteen occasions there had been eight other free kicks given against them while the total against the homesters was four. After half time the whistle was nearly as frequent and Gillingham alike suffered through being pulled up wrongly.
From Southend Standard 27th October 1921

Saturday 21st October 1921 - Southern League.
Southend United Reserves 3-2 Gillingham

The reserves put up an experimental formation against Gillingham with half back Lawson playing at centre forward at the Kursaal to the disgust of the 1,500, and it was only after reverting to a more conventional line up that the blues triumphed 3-2. They were one goal down at half time but scored three good goals to turn the game around.

Next Monday Episode 8
A Rare Win
 
Next Monday Episode 8
A Rare Win

No. 13 Division Three (South) - Saturday 29th October 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED. 2-0 GILLINGHAM
The Blues dropped to twenty first position, while Gillingham were at seventeenth position just two points above. Sandwiched in between were three other sides, Reading, Exeter and Brighton (who had been early pacesetters). With almost a third of the season gone this game took on enormous proportions, defeat and we would be four points behind our Kent neighbours and probably bottom of the League. The Southend team controversially had Harold White the Leigh Wednesday player at centre forward, but with the forwards not providing the goals desperate measures had to be taken. The match was played with half a gale blowing down the ground from North to South and as a result correct play was always going to be difficult, and the backs and halves of both sides made the mistake of holding on to the ball too long and welting the ball into the air from where there was no telling where it would come down. A good first half saw Henage Wileman net, and a converted penalty by Jimmy Evans, put the Blues in command If the first half was definitely in Southend’s control, in the second with the wind in their favour the men from Kent had the advantage if they had netted early the result could have been another story. The second half remained goal less and thankfully the Shrimpers crept out of the bottom spots.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman,, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Reid, White, Hawarden and Kettle.

Saturday 29th October 1921 - Southern League:
Gillingham Reserves 0-3 Southend United Reserves

The Junior Blues won away at Preistfield Stadium, Gillingham With a very powerful forward line. They started the half with the wind in their favour and were three goals up at half time thanks to Nuttall, Logan and Elliott, two of these goals coming from defensive errors by the goalkeeper. With the advantage swapped at half time Gillingham became a lot more prominent but they failed to score, final result 3-0 to Southend..

So with 13 games gone Southend found themselves perilously close to the re-election zone, despite winning only two games it wasn’t the defence that was the problem, ten sides had conceded more including Aberdare who were 6th. The problem was scoring, with the second worst record in the division, only nine goals in 13 games and our leading Goalscorers were half back Henage Wileman and full back Jimmy Evans (both penalties) with two apiece. Manager Tom Mather painfully aware of the situation made new signings including Harry Pidgeon a centre forward from QPR

No. 14 Division Three (South) - Saturday 5th November 1921
LUTON TOWN 3-0 SOUTHEND UNITED

Luton were third in the league with a very impressive home record played seven, won six drawn one scored fifteen conceded just one, and their last home game had been an impressive win against high flyers Portsmouth, the only defeat Pompey had suffered. It was a obviously going to be a difficult match but after the Blues win the previous Saturday but there was some hope, Southend kept an unchanged side but after three days rain followed by a drying wind the Dunstable Road pitch was far from ideal. It was a very poor game and the United fell a goal behind after twenty five minutes when a free kick was charged down the rebound was sent hurtling goal bound but Jimmy Evans brilliantly punched clear. It was a shame he was a full back not a goalkeeper, Luton converted the penalty. The games was settled ten minutes after the interval when the Strawplatters scored their second and they added a third before the end. Another disappointing result for the Blues in front of a crowd of 8,000.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Reid, White, Hawarden and Kettle.

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Saturday 5th November 1921 - Southern League
Southend United Reserves 0-2 Bristol City Reserves
The reserves entertained Bristol City at the Kursaal but lost again 0-2 in front of a crowd of 2,000. At no point during the game did Southend look capable of securing a point and what was anticipated as an exciting encounter proved to be a very one-sided affair much to the frustration of the spectators. Nuttall was near the small stand when a man close to the rails yelled out “Why don’t you put your coat on and clear off?”. Thereupon Nuttall made a dash for the railings and was about to vault over when re was prevented from doing so by a city player. He then darted round the back of the stand and was in the middle of the crowd looking for the man who threw the taunt and was hauled to the dressing rooms by his fellow players.

Next Monday Episode 9:
Supporters Complain about Admission Prices
 
Episode 9:
Supporters Complain about Admission Prices

No. 15 Division Three (South) - Saturday 12th November 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 0-1 LUTON TOWN

Luton were still third in the League just two points behind Plymouth and Southampton, largely thanks to their immaculate home record. Away they had only won one of six games, which was even worse that Southend’s home record, however optimism was short lived.

The Luton games needs little comment it certainly does not deserve much space for with the single exception of the Exeter match at the Kursaal it was probably the worst exhibition ever seen on a Southend ground. Football is supposed to be a pastime and recreation. Saturday’s match was an hour and a half’s misery. No wonder spectators begrudged the money they paid for admission. Luton deserved won because they were the better of two poor teams. The score of one to nil in their favour did not nearly represent their superiority.
From the Southend Standard 17th November 1921

Southend dropped to twenty first place in the table. Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Jones, Lawrence and Martin; Baldwin, Wileman, F. Harris, Hawarden and Kettle.

Saturday 12th November 1921 - Southern League:
Bristol City Reserves 3-0 Southend United Reserves

The Junior Blues played the return fixture against Bristol City at Ashton Gate and although losing 0-3 it was an improved performance, especially in the second half. Two nil down at half time they put up a “good show” in the second half but. conceded a third 10 minutes from time.

SUPPORTERS COMPLAINT
As one of the many disgusted United supporters. I would like to know when we are going to have full value for our money as I think you will agree the United charge more for admission to the stands than most other clubs, whether First, Second or Third Division and serve up games(?) which in many cases are not even equal to some of the local amateurs matches. Surely the Directors have realised by now that the players that they have at their disposal and will never make a goal scoring forward line. A fact that was pointed out in your columns at the very beginning of the season. I have always considered myself a very keen supporter of the Blues but this season I have absolutely lost interest in them and although up to now I have been to a good number of away games and of course all the home events in the hope each week that there would be some improvement If it wasn’t for the fact that I have a season ticket I am sure that I would not pay the 3s 6d to see such stuff as has been dished up lately.
From the Southend Standard 17th November 1921

Note: 1s (5p) standing admission to the ground was the usual comparable to other clubs, but 3s 6d (17.5p)for the stand seemed extremely expensive for the time

No. 16 Division Three (South) - Saturday 19th November 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 3-2 ABERDARE ATHLETIC
Aberdare made their first League visit to the Kursaal with three ex players, Lot Jones, Ted Leahy and Colin Myers and they were going well sitting seventh in the league and having lost only four out of fourteen games it was quite a surprise when won 3-2 with Harry Pidgeon getting one and Jimmy Evans netting his third penalty. It was a shock for the home spectators to find themselves a goal up after only four minutes, with a second added ten minutes later and this first quarter on an hour determined the course of the game. Aberdare appeared to be a very good side and they pulled back a goal before half time. Jimmy Evans scored a penalty to add to Southend’s lead, but two minutes later after an Aberdare defender had been penalised several times by the referee, he said “something to the referee that he ought not” and he was sent off. At first it looked like he would not leave the field but the referee made it clear that he would not change his mind, although it was quite shocking that some of the Kursaal crowd “were clamouring for the player to be sent off”. Two minutes from time Aberdare pulled one back but the final score was 3-2. .
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Reid, Pidgeon, Hawarden and Kettle.

WHAT THE PAPER SAID
The final score was three to two in the blues favour but the homesters achieved success somewhat more easily than the ultimate result suggests for in the second moiety they practically dominated exchanges. For a change spectators went home satisfied that they had seen a good game and had had their money’s worth. The attendance proved a slight improvement over that at the match against Luton and with a few more contests of the calibre of Saturday interest and enthusiasm revived would soon bring a decided increase in gates.
From the Southend Standard 24th November 1921

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Leading Appearances: Jimmy Evans ; Tom Capper, Blakey Martin and Henage Wileman 16; Fred Harris 12; James Lawson and Tommy Nuttall 11; Stan Dellow, Alex Elliott, James Lawson and Billy Kettle 8; David Reid and Andrew Hawarden 7; Harry Baldwin and Stephen Howard.(16 League).

Goalscorers : . Jimmy Evans 3, Henage Wileman 2; Harry Baldwin, Fred Harris, Andrew Hawarden, Stephen Howard, Blakey Martin, Henry Pidgeon and Billy Ruddock 1 each..(12 in all)

NEW SIGNING
Harry Buddery a 32 year forward was signed from Portsmouth in an attempt to improve our goalscoring record.

Next Monday Episode 10
No trouble at Rowdy Aberdare and a Bye in the Cup
 
Episode 10
No trouble at Rowdy Aberdare and a Bye in the Cup


No. 17 Division Three (South) - Saturday 26th November 1921

ABERDARE ATHLETIC 1-1 SOUTHEND UNITED
Aberdare easily won the poll to be elected to Division 3 (South) to become the Divisions fourth Welsh side (Swansea, Newport and Merthyr being the others). They played at the Athletics Stadium Aberdare , also known as the Ynys Stadium, the site was first used in 1893 by Aberdare Town Fc, predecessor of Aberdare Athletic. The ground initially possessed few facilities but a narrow grandstand had been constructed on the south side and embankments constructed behind both goals, the pitch was surrounded by a cycle track. The attendance record was 22,584 for the Wales v. Scotland Schoolboys International in 1921. In this first season Aberdare wore an “Aston Villa” type claret and blue strip.

The win against Aberdare the previous had taken Southend up to 18th place in the League, Norwich were bottom with eight points, Reading just above them with nine, and then five clubs (including Southend) with eleven points. Aberdare had now lost their last two games and it was important for both sides to get something out of the game.

The crowd at Aberdare get very excited and sometimes their enthusiasm runs beyond decorous bounds. Owing to the conduct of their spectators after the Charlton match the Welsh F.A. enquired into the complaint of rowdyism, severely censored the club and notified them that a repetition might lead to the closing of the ground. The club was also instructed to post notices round the ground to this effect immediately. This has been done and the directors have warned spectators that drastic measures and prosecution will follow any further rowdyism. On Saturday except that some of the spectator got terribly excited there was nothing to complain of. No doubt the earlier kick off and the arctic wind kept many away as there were only 8,000 present a small crowd in South Wales. Both sides made changes to their sides the chief interest from Southend’s point of view was the inclusion of Buddery the latest signing from Portsmouth. The game was interesting if not exciting and with ten minutes of the game left and the scores still goal less but Aberdare finally broke the deadlock. Being in arrears Southend pushed forward and were rewarded when Pidgeon brought the scores level and in the final minutes the Blues could have secured both points..
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; Baldwin, Buddery, Pidgeon, Hawarden and Kettle.


THE ABERDARE GROUND
Since I saw the Aberdare ground it has undergone a wonderful change and improvement It was then a bare field with no stand no banking. Today it is a ground which as a playing arena has few equals in the Kingdom. The ground is now well banked on every side and Lot Jones told me it could hold 30,000 spectators. On the South side is a fine grandstand capable of seating over one thousand, with commodious changing rooms underneath.
From the Southend Standard 1st December 1921

THE REFEREE

The conduct of the referee Godsall was an important factor in this tame display. Putting it mildly the majority of his decisions were doubtful. On the other hand spectators considered most of them woefully wrong nor did they refrain from saying so. Once referee Godsall stopped the match to remonstrate with a spectator for saying so with a note of finality in the expression. When he gave a corner against Southend when it was obviously a goal kick and there was such a storm of protest that he prevented the corner kick being taken until there was a semblance of silence.
From the Southend Standard 1st December


Saturday 17th November 1921 - Southern League:
Southend United Reserves 1-1 Guildfiord City

The Junior Blues drew with Guildford City at the Kursaal 1-1 in a controversial match.


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Saturday 3rd December 1921
There was no match for the first team as the Blues had a bye to the 1st Round of the Cup, while our planned opponents Newport were playing a 6th Qualifying round cup tie, the match had been brought forward to September. Meanwhile the reserves were also idle as their home game with non league Boscombe was postponed.


No. 18 Division Three (South) - Saturday 10th December 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 0-1 NEWPORT COUNTY
Newport had been one of the other four sides on eleven points with Southend, but after four successive defeats they had stopped the rot with an excellent home draw with fourth placed Portsmouth and were now a point above Southend. However Newport were poor away from home not having won of their eight away games, drawing one and losing seven. It was an ideal opportunity to start to pull away from the bottom, but it wasn’t to be. The first forty five minutes was a lively affair with the Blues looking impressive at times but the match remained goalless, and during this half Lawrence the United centre half sustained an ankle injury and was unable to resume after the interval. The reshuffled side failed to make such an impression in the second half and in the final ten minutes conceded the all important goal. As the Standard stated if only the United had adopted the “One Back” tactics in the same way that Newport had they would have probably salvaged a point.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Buddery, Pidgeon, Hawarden and Kettle.
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Saturday 10th December 1921 - Southern League:
Boscombe 3-1 Southend United Reserves

The reserves lost 1-3 at Boscombe (later to become Bournemouth). however Lawson had been taken ill on the journey down and although he did play was really in no fit condition. Boscombe were two goals up at half time a third added in the second and they also missed a penalty. Southend’s lone goal came from a solo effort by Nuttall.

Next Monday Episode 11:
Mixed Fortunes against Plymouth
 
Seriously speaking is this the worst season ever , i dont think so ,yes on the playing field was bad but was it as bad as the season that almost saw us relegated out of the football league into the national league.Also i can see some very good things come out of this season , 1st of all i believe we now have a manager if given the time will give us the type of football we all enjoy,think we have possibly the best manager outside of the premiershite. 2nd ly and im sure many of you will agree with this we have unearthed some very very promising young players that if we can hold onto will take the club up the leagues ,given time and confidence to play the way the manager wants, you as supporters can help there by getting truly behind them and encouraging them .
 
Episode 11:
Mixed Fortunes against Plymouth

No. 19 Division Three (South) - Saturday 17th December 1921
PLYMOUTH ARGYLE 4-0 SOUTHEND UNITED

After three weeks playing against Welsh sides, Southend had to make the long trip to Plymouth, who were second in the league with an unbeaten home record having won six and drawn three of their nine home matches. Scoring eleven conceding only one. In their last home game they had lost to Portsmouth 1-3 but that was after an unbeaten ten match run which had seen them top of the League for seven weeks. Plymouth was always going to be a difficult match but Southend suffered theirr worst result of the season so far, losing 0-4. They were three nil down by half time and the final whistle came as a welcome release with the score at four to Plymouth, none to Southend. Bob Jack the Plymouth and ex-Southend manager stated after the match that the Blues had been unlucky as he had not seen the Pilgrims in such scintillating form all season. Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, Halstead and Martin; F. Harris, Nuttall, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

Saturday 17th December 1921 -Southern League;
Southend United Reserves 3-0 Plymouth Argyle Reserves

The reserves surprisingly beat Plymouth at home 3-0 and what’s more they beat them very quickly with all three goals scored in the first seven minute. The first from Ruddock in the first minute and then a penalty converted by Reid and then a third on seven minutes and the shell shocked Plymouth players weren’t able to retrieve that deficit

No. 20 Division Three (South) - Saturday 24th December 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-0 PLYMOUTH ARGYLE
After their 4-0 win Plymouth were closing in on leaders Southampton just one point behind now although with inferior goal average. Southampton were at home to fourteenth place Northampton, so although remote Plymouth knew that a win could take them back to the top of the League. The Blues put up an outstanding performance, not only because they were playing against a cleverer, more weighty side, but also because for two thirds of the match the United were down to ten men as Harris was injured and had to leave the field. Harris had been in collision with Plymouth’s Russell and many of the home supporters thought unfairly and hooted Russell every time he got the ball, but it was almost certainly a pure accident. Incidentally Southampton beat Northampton 8-0, so Plymouth wouldn’t have gone top anyway.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Nuttall, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

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Saturday 24th December 1921 - Southern League:
Plymouth Argyle Reserves 1-0 Southend United Reserves

In the southern League the reserves lost by the same score at Plymouth in front of over 8,000 spectators. The first half was goalless but in the second half Plymouth gained the points as a result of a penalty after a handling offence, but in all honesty the Blues played well.

The following Day Sunday was Christmas Day and unusually the Southend United had the day off, however they had a game on Monday and Tuesday, Three games in four days was not uncommon at Christmas and Easter.

Next Monday Episode 12
23,000 see Southend Collapse against Pompey
 
Episode 12
23,000 see Southend Collapse against Pompey

No. 21 Division Three (South) - Monday 26th December 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-2 PORTSMOUTH

With Christmas fixtures against Plymouth and then Portsmouth on the Monday and Tuesday Southend it could hardly have been more difficult. Portsmouth were in fourth place Although they were a little way behind the leaders, they had only lost twice all season. The second defeat being on Christmas Eve at Merthyr. Southend now had a three point cushion over the bottom two. The kick off was 2.15 which was felt was too early and put off many from attending and it could easily have been put back to 2.30 and still have plenty of light to finish the game, nevertheless there were 9,000 present. The first half saw Portsmouth in the ascendancy and only poor finishing prevented them from taking more than a one goal lead, however far worse was that captain Heneage Wileman sustained a knee injury (which turned out to keep him out for the rest of the season) and after this the Blues had little option to play the “one back” game. In the second half Pompey sustained injuries and Southend now came more into the game and equalised when Jimmy Evans converted a penalty. With the home supporters shouting themselves hoarse they even envisaged a home victory but this was dashed when Portsmouth grabbed a last minute winner. It was disappointing but the spectators had seen a capital game and a good afternoons sport, however Wileman had been with the club for 12 years and was an inspiration to the rest of the team and was going to be badly missed. . . Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans; Wileman, Lawrence and Martin; Baldwin, Nuttall, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

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Monday 26th December 1921 - Southern League:
Portsmouth Reserves 3-1 Southend United Reserves
Before a good holiday crowd at Fratton Park Portsmouth reserves defeated the United reserves 1-3, Hawarden scored first for the Blues who held the lead till twenty minutes from time, when Pompey then scored thrice

No. 22 Division Three (South) - Tuesday 27th December 1921
PORTSMOUTH 6-0 SOUTHEND UNITED
The Boxing Day win had kept Portsmouth in fourth place three points behind third place and four points ahead of fifth. The Portsmouth supporters had yet to taste defeat at Fratton Park in nine games and a best of the season so far crowd of 23,000 attended. After the injuries the previous day both sides had to make changes and a reshuffled Southend side with four changes made, struggled against the strong Pompey side and it was clear from the outset that the United had little hope of obtaining even one point. They were three goals down by half time, and the damage was doubled by full time, and if the Portsmouth forwards had been in better form the score could have been doubled. The three point cushion from the bottom places had now dropped to one point.
Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans, Dellow, Lawrence and Martin; Allen, Reid, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

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This defeat left us third from bottom with both Norwich and Exeter having games in hand, no one had scored less than us and only Northampton had conceded more. Jimmy Evans had scored 4 penalties while Harry Pidgeon had scored three.

Tuesday 27th December 1921 - Southern League:
Southend United Reserves 1-1 Portsmouth Reserves

In four fixtures against Portamouth in two days, in was little comfort that the reserves drew with Pompey 1-1 at the Kursaal in front of 1,500.

Next Monday Episode 13

The Manager resigns and League and Cup Wins
 
Episode 13
The Manager resigns and League and Cup Wins

No. 23 Division Three (South) - Saturday 31st December 1921
SOUTHEND UNITED 2-1 MERTHYR TOWN
Merthyr were in eighth position, but eleven points behind the leaders. After only three games they had been top of the league but had slipped since then in a season which had seen them only draw one match. Jimmy Evans was appointed club captain which was a popular decision. It was a much improved performance resulting in a rare win 2-1, and this was after the usually dependable Evans missing a penalty. 1-1 at half time and Harry Pidgeon netting what proved to be the winner after sixty minutes, with Southend playing the game out for safety. The win which helped the Blues to leapfrog above Reading and Gillingham and into 18th place, but the gate was down to 5,000, which as the Southend Standard stated ”The club cannot continue to play on these meagre gates nor can they expect enterprise from the Directors with such discouraging lack of interest.”. .
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans, Reid, Halstead and Martin; Allen, Nuttall, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

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Southern League: The reserves lost 0-5 in the Southern League away at Bath city in front of 4,000 spectators.

NEW MANAGER
At the last meeting of the board Mr. T. Mather the Secretary Manager also offered his resignation. Mr Mather has occupied the position after the resignation of Mr Liddell at the end of the 1919-20 season. The board has accepted the resignation. Mr Mather has done good service. I am now in a position to announce that the board have appointed a manager in succession to Mr. Mather while owing to the increase in clerical work a secretary is also to b appointed. The New manager is Mr. Edward Bernie of Roker, Sunderland a professional player who ten years ago was well known and popular around the metropolis. As a half back Mr. Bernie saw considerable and successful service with Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Newcastle.
From the Southend Standard 5th January 1921

So did he jump or was he pushed? Reading the reports of the first half of the season it was clear that the performances on the field were very poor and not up to standard, and the fans were clearly showing their disgust. The brunt of the unrest was aimed at the players rather than the manager, and in fairness to Tom Mather he was an administrator rather than an ex player and he clearly had too much on his plate. He was to go on and manage a number of clubs including Newcastle, Leicester and Kilmarnock, but is best remembered as manger of Stoke City for ten years during which time it was he that discovered and nurtured a young lad named Stanley Matthews.

Ted Bernie meanwhile had a very difficult job on his hands

F.A. Cup Tie

The Cup Tie against Worksop had caused quite a bit of excitement in the Nottinghamshire town supporters had decided that “they would rather pay increased admission than take the tie out of the town” The Directors obliged, the price of admission was increased from 1s (5p) to 1s 6d (7.5p) while the seats were increased by 50% and in some cases by 100%. The price increase had to be agreed by Southend, but they were advised that despite short time at the collieries, the increase would not affect the size of the game by one iota. Southend applied for a large number of tickets.

F.A. Cup Round 1 - Saturday 7th January 1922
WORKSOP TOWN 1-2 SOUTHEND UNITED

Worksop were a non league side, but so were Southend two seasons previously so this meant little.. Worksop actually claim to be one of the oldest clubs in existence claiming routes back to the 1860s. and in 1921-22 they won the Midland league, and some clubs such as Lincoln or Doncaster who were in the Midland League applied for and were elected to the Football League.

In fact the next year’s cup competition (1922-23) they held Tottenham 0-0 at White Hart Lane , for financial reasons the replay was again played at White Hart Lane but this time Spurs won 9-0.

The ground was said to hold 10,000 and had a stand to seat 1,500 but the area was suffering with large unemployment and in the mining crisis many were on a two day week. The ground was a mini Brammell Lane with one side open as it was also used as a cricket ground. The official attendance was given as 5,560 a record for the home club. However the pitch was narrow which didn’t suite Southend who liked to play a wide game. As often for the First Round of the cup the weather was not good, rain had fallen throughout Friday and continued during Saturday eventually stopping about 1.00 and in the next hour and a half the home fans flooded in to the ground as well as about 300 Southend fans Admission had been raised to 1s 6d for the game but this didn’t seem to deter many. In the difficult conditions Southend fell behind to Worksop’s first real goal attempt but the Blues battled on after Kettle equalised few could see anything but a Southend win, and this was confirmed when Buddery scored the winning goal and the Blues came out worthy winners, Worksop were a capable side better than several of the Third Division sides.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans, Reid, Halstead and Martin; Allen, Nuttall, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle

ARRIVAL OF THE SOUTHEND SPECIAL
Punctual to time the special had arrived from Southend but it must have been disappointing to Mr E. Grant to find that so few availed themselves of the facilities which he had provided and which fell so short of his guarantee. Probably the cheerless morning in Southend with snow falling made many change their minds and go back to a warm bed. Ninety seven availed themselves of the special and made a brave show with their favours, bell and other instruments of torture. All agreed they had a fine journey. Home enthusiasts had a dummy black cat tied with blue and white ribbons which they placed in front of the stand. The homesters also had a mascot in the shape of a fat little boy dressed in amber and black jersey and cap with white knickers, the home club colours and he kicked a ball about which was also painted in the same hues.
From the Southend Standard 12 January 1922

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The Reserves:
The Junior Blues played at the Kursaal against the Grenadier Guards 4-6 in a friendly, one of our goals was a penalty after Billy Ruddock our centre forward had been clutched by the ankle and through half a dozen yards by one of the defending guardsmen.

THE NEWS AT SOUTHEND

The United supporters were kept posted with progress of the game by bulletins placed in the window of the Southend Standard office, special arrangements having been made for telephone messages from the ground. A crowd of about 500 enthusiasts awaited the result with anxiety. There was considerable relief when it was seen that Southend had survived the first half and were on terms. Three quarter time with the scores still even increased confidence in the team’s ability to at least draw and there was speculation as to the replay on the Wednesday. When the final score came through there was scenes of much enthusiasm, a hearty cheer being raised that could be heard from some distance. The game did not conclude till 4.13 and at 4.17 the result was posted upon the Standard office windows.
From the Southend Standard 12th January 1922

PRESENTATION TO MR.MATHER

In order to show their appreciation of his kindness and courtesy to them the players of the United team presented Mr. T Mather with a handsome gold wristlet watch. The presentation was made on their behalf by Jimmy Evans. Mr E Bernie the new manager was present to witness the contest and entered upon new duties on Monday. We shall all wish him the best of luck.
From the Southend Standard 12th January 1922

Next Monday Episode 14:
Swansea or West Ham in the 2nd Round of the Cup

 
Episode 14:
Swansea or West Ham in the 2nd Round of the Cup


When the draw for the second round of the cup Southend were drawn at home to either Swansea or West Ham United, and obviously the whole town was excited at the prospect of playing the London team. However the tie went to a third game with eventually Swansea getting the winner in extra time. Disappointed undoubtedly as they were, at least Swansea were mid-table in the Blues own division and success in this game would take them through to the last 16 as we had against Tottenham the previous season.

The prices were announced which were quite steep really for the visit of another third division team: Ground adults 1s 6d Boys 1s Pavilion 3s/6d, Wing and West Stands 5s 9d Centre Stand 7s 6d or the enclosure 2s 6d. Tickets could be bought in advance or even by phone if you rang telephone no’ 153, preference would be given to Season Tickets holders except they didn’t have their names and addresses, but If you let them know when you booked they would give you preference?

No. 24 Division Three (South) - Saturday 14th January 1922
MERTHYR TOWN 2-2 SOUTHEND UNITED
Southend were back to league action at Merthyr who were 9th in the league and had the distinction of drawing the fewest of games in the division, having only drawn 1 of 21 games. At home they had won nine and lost two, scoring twenty and conceding only seven. The game was goalless at half time but a Jimmy Evans penalty his fifth of the season, and a George Harris goal gave Southend a 2-0 lead but the game ended in a 2-2 draw. Therefore to come away from Pennydarren Park with a point was a good result on paper but this was one result which most definitely should have been an away win. The referee decision is final and cannot be argued with, but his two decisions in allowing Merthyr’s two goals was inexplicable and inexcusable. For the first goal which was clearly offside as cleaner tackle as could be seen on any ground in the country was somehow given as a penalty. His second error was without rhyme and reason, the Merthyr player standing no more than six yards from goal and yards in front of any Southend defender except Capper just tapped the ball into the net and not even the most rabid Town supporter dreamed than a goal would be given, but it was. Many hundreds of supporters had already left the ground by this time assuming that Merthyr had lost. The Blues were now three points clear of the re-election zone, but too close for comfort. . Southend stayed at eighteenth place in the table.
Team: Capper; Dellow and J. Evans, Reid, Halstead and Martin; F. Harris, Nuttall, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

Southern League;
The Junior Blues were playing Charlton Athletic at the Kursaal and won 3-1 just their sixth win of the season, but it was a game far superior to many Third Division games seen at the Kursaal and Southend were superior in all departments except perhaps the goalkeepers

No. 25 Division Three (South) - Saturday 21st January 1922
WATFORD 4-1 SOUTHEND UNITED
Watford played, (and had played for the previous 20 odd years) at their old Cassio Road ground, a small ground dominated by its Victorian Pavilion on one side, but the ground was small and they were moving to the nearby Vicarage Road ground at the end of the season. The Union stand was transported from Cassio Road and reconstructed at Vicarage Road when they moved and was in use until the 1930s. Watford were only one place above the Blues but had beaten Norwich 4-2 at home the previous week. Their home record was played eleven won three drawn seven and lost only one, but Southend hadn’t won any of their twelve away games and had only managed six goals in the process, Another Jimmy Evans penalty kept us in the game at half time although we were still losing 1-2, and in the second half the Black and white striped shirts of the Brewerymen added two more. This second four goal tally lifted Watford them up to 15th in the table and condemned Southend to 20th
Team: Capper; Lawson and J. Evans, Halstead, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Nuttall, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

In the F.A .Cup Watford beat Blackpool 2-1 before losing 0-1 to Tottenham. the same opponents we had in the previous season

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Southern League:
The reserves lost to Watford at the Kursaal, by the same score as the first team, 1-4

Next Monday Episode 15:
The Second Round of the Cup
 
Episode 15:
The Second Round of the Cup


F.A. Cup Round 2 - Saturday 28th January 1922
SOUTHEND UNITED 0-1 SWANSEA TOWN

Swansea were always an entertaining side, but they weren’t exactly the sort of draw you would want in the second round of the cup. The Swans had had what would have been a dream draw for us, when they played West Ham in the first round, drawing 0-0 at the Vetch Field, drawing again 1-1 at West Ham after extra time, but then winning the third match 1-0 played at a neutral ground You can’t expect a new manager to work wonders and in the second round of the cup he didn’t. Southend wimped out 0-1 against Swansea at the Kursaal managed by our old manager Joe Bradshaw. The gate had been an excellent one of 10,200 but as the Standard quiet honestly reported “the match was a s dull as Ditchwater”
Team: Capper; W. Evans and J. Evans, Reid, Lawrence and Martin; F. Harris, Nuttall, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

Swansea drew an away tie at another Third division South side Millwall in the Third Round (the last sixteen) but they lost this 0-4.
No. 26 Division Three (South) - Saturday 4th February 1922
CHARLTON ATHLETIC 4-0 SOUTHEND UNITED
Having had various homes before the war, in 1919 Charlton decided to create a permanent home in a disused chalk pit in the heart of Charlton village, known locally as the “swamps”. An army of volunteers armed with picks and shovels dug out the quarry to create towering banks on either side of the pitch, suitably named The Valley. The unique circumstances of the ground's initial construction led to an unusually intense bond between the club's supporters and the site that exists to this day (much the same as we feel for Roots Hall). Facilities were rudimentary in those early days - there was no fencing, seating nor even concrete terracing and certainly no protection from the weather. The players often used a local fish and chip shop as a changing room before games and this is supposedly where the clubs nickname 'addicks' is derived from (a play on the word 'haddock'). However, others have claimed that it was the owner of the shop who inspired the name by nailing a haddock to a board and using it as a mascot during games. Charlton Athletic only turned professional, in 1920 but in 1920-21 despite only finishing 8th in the Southern League applied for and gained admission to Division Three (South). It was felt that the club had been fortunate to be in the league and this wasn’t due to achievements on the playing field, but we could hardly agree with this theory when they soundly beat us 0-4 in our first visit to the Valley in front of 7,000 fans, which dropped us to 20th in the league. We lost the game 0-4 although at half time it was only one goal and we were well in the game. Charlton had three ex Southend players in their team, one of them was ex legend Harold Halse who tormented his former side scoring twice.
Team: Capper; Jones and W. Evans, Reid, Halstead and Martin; F. Harris, Buddery, Pidgeon, Hawarden and Kettle.

Charlton withdrew from the FA Cup rather than having to play through the qualifying rounds. They had been drawn away to Margate in the extra preliminary round and would have had to successfully negotiate 8, qualifying rounds to gain a place in the First Round proper

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Southern League :
The reserves lost at home 1-2 to Bath City. Bath had only just moved up to the Southern League from the Western league but the previous season they had become somewhat of a Cup sensation when they won through to the First Round of the Cup eventually losing to Hull City 0-3. Bath had also applied for election to the Third division South the previous summer but had lost out on the vote. This was Bath’s first away win in the Southern League, and they barely deserved their win against a Southend side depleted by injuries and players called up to the first team

WELSH CAP FOR JIMMY EVANS
Jimmy Evans the Southend full back received his first International cap when he played in the Welsh win over Scotland at Wrexham. He was in fact second choice but the Plymouth Full back was denied permission to play. Considering the dire situation Southend were in it was very sporting of the club to give their permission. Evans had been reserve in the Wales team when Lot Jones got his call up two years previously and he did well in this game.
The Daily Express said “J Evans rendered excellent service”
The Daily Chronicle said “The two new backs with the two new forwards had a big share in the victory

NEXT MONDAY EPISODE 16
DESPONSDANCY CREEPING IN AS ONLY 4,500 TURN UP
 
EPISODE 16
DESPONSDANCY CREEPING IN AS ONLY 4,500 TURN UP


No. 27 Division Three (South) - Saturday 11th February 1922
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-1 CHARLTON ATHLETIC

Charlton and Aberdare Athletic had both been newly elected to the Third Division South and they were both doing well, Aberdare seventh, Charlton eighth. At home Charlton were impressive only losing one of fourteen games but they were a different proposition away losing eight of their twelve games, and lost four out the last five.. Southend were third from bottom, just one point ahead of Norwich who still had two games in hand and despondency was creeping in, only 4,500 fans turned up at the Kursaal, That included a fair sprinkling of away fans,

“the Charlton supporters Committee are running a special charabanc trip to Southend for the match and it is expected that several scores of them will be present” from the Southend Standard 9th February 1922.

The match was goalless at half time, and the point was gained thanks to a penalty from Jimmy Evans his seventh of the season, and that was clearly the problem, the Full Back was the leading scorer the highest any of the forwards could muster was four. . Southend stayed at twentieth in the table.
Team: Capper; W. Evans and J. Evans; Reid, Halstead and Martin; F. Harris, Buddery, Pidgeon, Gibbons and Kettle.


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Southern League: The reserves lost 2-4 at the valley to Charlton

NEW SIGNINGS
Two new signings were made in February Harry Dobson from Newport and A.S. Gibbons an amateur from Dartford.

No. 28 Division Three (South) - Saturday 18th February 1922
NORTHAMPTON TOWN 0-2 SOUTHEND UNITED

The point against Charlton had been very welcome, especially as the two bottom sides were playing each other Gillingham beating Norwich 5-2, so the Blurs gained a point on one and lost a point to the other. They were two points ahead of both but Gillingham had one and Norwich had two games in hand. Northampton were just four places and five points ahead of the Blues, but in fourteen games United had yet to record a victory and had only managed to score seven goals, in fact the last league away victory was the infamous win at Crystal Palace after which the Palace ground was closed. The first half remained goalless and was quite even but in the second half Southend superiority started to show, and the breakthrough came thirteen minutes from the end when across from Allen was met by the amateur A.S. Gibbons who with a first time half hook shot into the net. Shortly afterwards a Northampton player fell badly and dislocated his shoulder and had to be taken to hospital. With the Blues now in full control it was little surprise when three minutes from time a penalty was awarded to the United. As Jimmy Evans went to take the kick a Cobblers player went up to him and said “You won’t score”, “wait and see “ was Jimmy’s immediate reply, final score 2-0.the Blues gained an unexpected but very welcome victory at the County Ground. .
Team: Jefferies; W. Evans and J. Evans; Reid, Halstead and Martin; Pidgeon, Allen, Buddery, Gibbons and Kettle.

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The reserves
The Junior Blues had a friendly against The Southend & District League and won 4-0

THE VICTORY SPORTS GROUND
A new park donated by Mr. R.A. Jones was opened the “ Victory Sports Ground”, it was dedicated to the sportsmen of the borough who had fallen in the great war, and has impressive stone pillar and wrought iron gateway at the entrance on Sutton Road.

Mr. Jones had a jewellers business in Southend High Street which was there for many years. He was a great benefactor to the borough and in 1917 he had bought and donated the grounds and mansion of Priory Park . later he also presented a third sports ground dedicated to his wife the “Jones memorial Ground” His son Cecil Jones after the second world war donated land further along Eastern Avenue for the use of the sporting youth of the town

Next Monday Episode 18;
Poor Refereeing spoils match

 
Episode 18; Poor Refereeing spoils match

No. 29 Division Three (South) - Saturday 25th February 1922
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-1 NORTHAMPTON TOWN

Its surprising how one game can change your outlook, Norwich had won, Gillingham lost and Exeter had been dragged into the dogfight, the Blues now had a two point advantage on Norwich and Exeter and four points on Gillingham. They were also only three points behind Northampton, who away from home now had a worse record than the Blues, only four draws from twelve games. A win would have certainly improved their position considerably, and that is exactly what the United should have had for the first hour they completely controlled the game. However the match was spoilt by poor refereeing who’s interpretation of the offside rule was weird and he provided no protection for players who tried to play football, in which arms, elbows, hacks and trips all seemed to be acceptable to the referee and inevitably the game boiled over on a couple of occasions. Jimmy Evans scoring his third successive penalty to give the Blues the lead but as the second half progressed the game became scrappier and Northampton equalised.
Team: Capper; W. Evans and J. Evans; Reid, Halstead and Martin;, Allen, Dobson, Buddery, Gibbons and Kettle.

Leading Appearances:
Tom Capper 30, Jimmy Evans and Blakey Martin 29; Billy Kettle and Henage Wileman 23; Fred Harris 20; Tommy Nuttall 19; George Lawrence 18; Stan Dellow 17; Harry Buddery and Henry Pidgeon 15; David Reid 14; Fred Halstead 13; Andrew Hawarden and James Lawson 10 each .(29 League and 2 cup).

Goalscorers : .
Jimmy Evans 9, Harry Pidgeon 4;Fred Harris and Henage Wileman 2; Harry Baldwin, harry Buddery, A.S. Gibbons, Fred Halstead, Andrew Hawarden, Stephen Howard, Billy Kettle, Blakey Martin and Billy Ruddock 1 each..(26 in all

RESERVES
Southern League :
The reserves lost at Watford 0-2.

No. 30 Division Three (South) - Saturday 4th March 1922
SOUTHAMPTON 5-0 SOUTHEND UNITED
Southampton were second in the league a point behind Plymouth but with two games in hand on them, they were unbeaten at home in fifteen games and had only conceded six goals in the process. They had scored more than anyone else and conceded less than anybody else, so it could not have been a more difficult task. Southampton had two of their players receive their first England caps and added to that they had two new signings. The first half was quite even and the Saints only gained a goal advantage just before the interval, they were still in the game till the last twenty five minutes, when Southend were overrun and finally lost by five goals to nil. However the time for excuses had passed. The headline in the Standard read “A Dangerous Position” which basically summed up Southend's position quite well.
Team: Capper; W. Evans and J. Evans; Reid, Halstead and Martin;, Allen, Dobson, Pidgeon, Buddery and Kettle.

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RESERVES
Southern League : The reserves played Southampton at the Kursaal and won 1-0 in a bad day for weather, “On no occasion this season has the pitch at the Kursaal looked such a mess as on Saturday and spectators have never made such a rush for the grandstand shelter. In a pelting shower before the United and the Junior Saints took the field there was only one solitary figure outside the stand. ”
From the Southend Standard 9th March 1922


Next Monday Episode 19:
Small crowd turn up for the Potential Champions

 
Episode 19:
Small crowd turn up for the Potential Champions

No. 31 Division Three (South) - Saturday 11th March 1922
SOUTHEND UNITED 0-0 SOUTHAMPTON

Plymouth had also won, so Southampton still had to be content with second place. Southend had three sides below them Norwich and Gillingham one point behind and Exeter two points behind, Norwich having two games in hand and Gillingham one. The game at the Kursaal was anything but a dull affair, in fact it was reported as being one of the best exhibitions of real football seen all season, it was a game dominated by the defences, and a draw was the correct result for neither side could master the other.
Team: Capper; W. Evans and J. Evans; Reid, Halstead and Howard, Allen, Dobson, Nuttall, Buddery and Kettle.

Only 6,660 paid for admission so that the visit of the probable champions on as a perfect afternoon as you could hope to see for this time of year as witnessed by only about 7,000 people, the crowd including some enthusiasts from Southampton with Red and White bedecked rattles, bells and hats , Such an attendance is not a warm testimony to the sporting proclivities of a town of 110,000 people.
From the Standard 16th March 1922.

Note: This probably seems quite harsh, you can’t expect people to watch a losing side, but in pre first world war attitudes, it was participating not winning that was important, and they would expect the same attendances win or lose. The attitudes of the crowd were changing, although the establishment didn’t realise it.

RESERVES
Southern League : The reserves lost at the Dell by their heaviest defeat of the season 0-8

Monday 13th March 1922
Jimmy Evans gained his second International cap when he played at Anfield, Liverpool for Wales in their 0-1 defeat against England. The papers said
“Daily News – Russell and Evans were more daring and effective than the English backs”
“Sporting Life –the selectors are evidently pleased with Evans as he has been chosen to play against Ireland”.

No. 32 Division Three (south) - Saturday 18th March 1922
SOUTHEND UNITED 1-2 QUEENS PARK RANGERS
The Blues position had deteriorated, they were now bottom but one, with only Exeter below them by one point, level with the shrimpers on points were Gillingham and Norwich and then a three point gap to the rest of the field. Of those bottom four clubs Southend had the worse goal average. QPR were well placed in fifth place. The game started well for the Blues and after only eight and a half minutes Nuttall scored, and at this time they were playing well and with confidence, however in the second half Rangers took control and ended up winning 1-2.
Team: Capper; W. Evans and J. Evans; Reid, Halstead and Howard, Allen, Dobson, Nuttall, Buddery and Kettle.

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The home loss of the United to queens Park rangers on Saturday was a grievous disappointment to their supporters, not because of the fact that with such a moderate side as they possess this season the probability of defeat is ever present, but for the reason that after having the game well won they absolutely threw their advantage away and having dissipated it proved incapable of raising an effort to remedy the damage done. With one or two exceptions they performed like a combination without a stomach for their work, pluck or backbone and everyone must have got a little tired of this type of resistance after what should have been a temporary reverse. It is not the spirit which wins matches.

Next Monday Episode 20
Deeper and Deeper into Trouble
 
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