WEST HAM UNITED
theyflysohigh : Steve Marsh
FOOTBALL PROGRAMMES &
Collectables through the Decade
A Pictorial History
1906-07 Southern League (Division One)
Manager : Syd King
For once, there were no huge changes to the playing staff for the new campaign. Four players left and in their place came forwards David Lindsay and Fred Kemp. There were also two new full-backs in William Wildman and William Taylor. It was a good start to the season as the Hammers came away from Tottenham after a 2–1 triumph. At home the Hammers were again in command, beating Swindon 2–0 and Luton Town 5–1 with Lionel Watson claiming a hat-trick. In September there were two goals from goalscoring talisman Grassam in a 3–0 home win over Leyton. A week later he scored a hat-trick at Portsmouth – but unfortunately the home side scored four. The away form improved, with creditable draws at Plymouth, Reading and Gillingham. During November there was an excellent 4–1 victory at Fulham in which Lionel Watson grabbed a hat-trick to inflict Fulham’s first home defeat of the season. The Christmas period brought two further wins at home: Southampton were beaten 1–0, followed by a satisfying 4–2 triumph against north London rivals Tottenham. Young Arthur Winterhalder scored a hat-trick, with Harry Stapley adding the other goal.
In the FA Cup, First Division side Blackpool were the visitors and went away beaten 2–1. In the next round Everton, another First Division side, proved too strong for the Hammers as they won 2–1 at the Boleyn Ground. There was a big crowd of 16,000 for the visit of Millwall. It was a disappointing day as the visitors won 1–0, which left the Hammers in sixth place in the table. After this there was a five-match unbeaten run including home victories over Queens Park Rangers (2–1), and Portsmouth (3–0). Now up to third in the league, the Easter period brought further wins against Reading at home (2–0), and a 3–2 win at Southampton. The final home game of the season was against Fulham, who had already been crowned champions. The home faithful ended the season on a high as the Hammers won 4–1 to finish fifth in the table.
Note:
Players in BOLD made their debuts for West Ham United
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
White Hart Lane
2 - 1 (Stapley, Watson)
1 September 1906
Att: 17,000
Kitchen
WILLIAM WILDMAN
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
DAVID LINDSAY
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
The weather was trying, West Ham fielded nine of last years capable team whereas Spurs had five newcomers. Stapley put West Ham ahead after 15 minutes after a clever bribble around several players. Grassam got the ball in but was adjudged offside after receiving from Blackburn. Two minutes later Hammers new boys combined for the second goal. Lindsay to Watson who doubled the Hammers' score. Half-time 2-0.
In the 10th minute of the second half, Dow scored for Spurs. Shortly after Eames fluffed a good centre from Walton then Grassam ought to have added to West Ham's score but struck a post. Then Eames had an effort disallowed for handling. Jarvis was injured during the game and the visitors side was re-shuffled.
SWINDON TOWN
Upton Park
2 - 0 (Stapley, Watson)
8 September 1906
Att: 10,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Hammers won the toss and elected to play facing the sun but with the breeze at their backs. Kitchen saved brilliantly from Smith early on and received rapturous applause. Both West Ham's wings troubled the Swindon defence. Lindsay formerly with Hearts looks a very good recruit and it was he who centred for Watson to try with a good effort. Half-time arrived with the scoresheet blank.
West Ham restarted without Grassam and played minus a forward for 15 minutes. The other four forwards managed very well and following a tricky run by Blackburn the ball almost went in straight from his centre. Watson collected the ball 30 yards out and running through beat Ling all ends up, with a hot shot in the right hand corner. From now on West Ham dominated the play although Swindon might have scored when Kitchen was all but bustled over the line with the ball. After Grassam returned Blackburn went off. The player retuned and straight away got involved with the play. He centred for Watson to miss narrowly. Fifteen minutes from time Stapley found himself with ball and near goal and just two defenders to beat. He did this easily and fired passed Ling for two-nil.
NORWICH CITY
Newmarket Road
2 - 3 (Blackburn, Stapley)
15 September 1906
Att: 10,000
Kitchen
JAMES BLYTH
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Heavy rain had softened the playing surface but a fine afternoon brought out a good attendance. Blythe the old Middlesbrough half-back deputised at back for Wildman who had an injured thigh.
A penalty in the third minute put West Ham behind. Gardner handled and Archer scored. Almost immediaetly Ronaldson passed to Ross and the inside left promptly made it 2-0. Blackburn then converted a Lindsay cross and the visitors then made a bold bis to restore equality once more. Stapley worked with great skill but the home defence was strong and Thompson was not too troubled.
Norwich came back just before half-time and Ross shot through Kitchen's legs for a 3-1 interval lead. Norwich seized the initiative after this and were always dangerous around Kitchen's goal. But the only further score came at the other end and when Stapley beat Thompson to make it 3-2 with 30 minutes still to go.
LUTON TOWN
Upton Park
5 - 1 (Watson 3, Lindsay, Stapley)
22 September 1906
Att: 13,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Luton came with an unbeaten record, one win and two draws. West Ham had the advantage in all departments and they had Stapley at centre-forward. The amateur led Luton a merry dance throughout. The visitors defence never knew what he would get up to next. The Luton side played pluckily but their forwards led by ex-Spurs Sandy Brown were sadly out of touch, Brown himself was much slower than of old. Luton had their best moment early on, after only seven minutes they led when Brown converted from a Bob Hawkes pass.
The visitors troubles began there for at the other end Stapley was fouled and from the free-kick just outside the box, Watson slow shot completely deceived Platt to level the scores at 1-1. Watson gave Hammers the lead with a brilliant hook shot and recorded his hat-trick from a Lindsay corner before half-time. Platt prevented an ever bigger deficit by saving a certain goal bound shot from Stapley before going in for the interval. Half-time 3-1.
Brown missed an easy chance early in the second period, then Kitchen made two great saves from Barnes. That was about the extent of Luton's attacking contribution in the second half. A Grassam pass found Stapley who made it 4-1. The Upton Park side then romped around Luton but over elaborated when they should have been improving their goal average. The fift and last goal came when Bob hawkes made an uncharacteristic error. He failed to see that a ball would go out of play by the post and this error of judgement allowed Lindsay to score munber five. In one last fling Stapley completeley beat three defenders and just missed adding a sixth.
BRISTOL ROVERS
Eastville
0 - 3
24 September 1906
Att: 3,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Winterhalder A.
Watson
Blackburn
In an early bombardment of his goal Kitchen saved short range blasts from Walker and Clarke. Clerke eventually put Rovers in the lead and the home side tried desperatley to increase it. After a Clarke shot had been blocked Gould kicked widly at a bouncing ball and found the net via the crossbar. A few minutes later Walker headed in from a Savage cross. All three goals came in an 8 minute spell early in the second half.
CRYSTAL PALACE
Crystal Palace
1 - 1 (Winterhalder)
29 September 1906
Att: 10,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Blyth
Piercy
Allison
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Winterhalder A.
Wallace put Crystal Palace ahead after fine work by his skipper Innerd. Needham lost an opportunity to increase the lead when e headed over. Stapley almost got through twice with his wriggling runs and when he did he passed to Watson the latter netted but was given offside. Half-time Crystal Palace 1, West Ham nil.
West Ham pressed after the restart and after a long spell of trying Winterhalder received the ball from a free kick and netted the equaliser.
BRENTFORD
Upton Park
3 - 1 (Allison, Grassam, Stapley)
6 October 1906
Att: 12,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
FRED KEMP
The many excellent performances already given by West Ham this season stamps them as one of the most dangerous sides in the Southern League. At the Boleyn Castle they added further laurels to their account by defeating Brentford by three goals to one. The win was all the more merited because they were deprived of the services of their skipper Gardner for the whole of the second half when he sustained a severe ankle injury which will keep him in the doctors care for the next week or two. Fred Blackburn was also missing from the lineup through an ankle injury, his place was taken by Kemp. Stapley was again the star artist, his wonderful ball manipulation kept Brentford's defence guessing. The home defence was sound even after the departure of Gardner. The game began with a goal in the opening minute. From the kick off the ball went out to Lindsay who forced a corner off Taylor. This was so well placed by Lindsay that Allison had an easy task to head passed Williams. Brentford retaliated but Gardner cleared. Stapley took it upfield and hit a terrific shot at goal which cannoned off a post. Stapley eventually added to West Ham's lead when he netted following a corner. A little later West am won a penalty for a foul on Stapley but goalkeeper Kitcen made a long trek up field only to fail with the spot kick. Shortly before half time Kemp crossed for Grassam to beat Williams with a hard low shot for number three. Half-time 3-0.
Watson missed the last few minutes of the first half when he was injured. On resuming it was Gardner who was missing. The home side reshuffled their side, Percy moving to left back and Watson to centre half. After 55 minutes Hagan was brought down, sandwiched between Wildman and Jarvis. Pentland scored from the spot.
MILLWALL ATHLETIC
North Greenwich
1 - 1 (Stapley)
13 October 1906
Att: 15,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Kemp
Great rivalry has always existed between these two east-end clubs since the latter of them (Thames Ironworks) was found 10 years ago. This was a clean game well controlled by the referee. And ended with the unusual spectacle of that official being applauded from the field. West Ham got the first break-through when Lindsay got clear up his wing. His cross was badly judged by full-back Aitken but the ball was retrieved by Joyce. The goalkeeper caught the ball but turned it into a bunch of West Ham players. In the ensueing melee Joyce dropped the ball and Stapley put it into the net.
Millwall stepped up the pace and the home forwards were a constant worry for the visiting defenders. After half an hours play Twigg relieved the anxiety of the home supporters when he dashed in to score a magnificent equaliser. The 1-1 score at half-time was also the score at ninety minutes.
BRISTOL ROVERS
Upton Park
0 - 1
15 October 1906
Att: 4,000
Kitchen
Wildman
WILLIAM TAYLOR
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Kemp
Rovers were the smarter side and on the run of play should have won more easily. Hammers missed Gardner at full-back have now dropped 4points to Bristol Rovers this season. The Rovers attack was excellently supported by their half-backs and time and again broke away from the home defenders. This required Kitchen to leave his goal and charge out to clear. After 19 mintues a free kick was warded to the rovers for tripping, the ball dropped nicely in front of goal and from the reultant scrimage Smart sent in a good shot that deflected off Wildman. Shortly after Rovers were awarded a penalty but Kitchen effected a wonderful save from Clarkes shot.
LEYTON
Upton Park
3 - 0 (Grassam 2, Stapley)
20 October 1906
Att: 12,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Since their admission to the senior ranks of the Southern League Leyton have shown such a bold front that their debut at the Boleyn Castle Ground to oppose West Ham United aroused keen interest in the East end district and quite 12,000 watched the proceedings. West Ham who are without doubt one of the most improved XI's in South however proved too strong for the leytonians and won rather easily by 3-0.
Fred Blackburn reappeared in the West Ham line-up after injury but Gardner is still absent (ankle). The Leyton attack was disappointing it was quite ordinary. The defence in contrast was perfectly sound at all points. The West Ham forwards played wonderfully well together and there was almost perfect understanding, Watson, Grassam and Stapley were particularly clever. Moles was forced to retire after five minutes after colliding with one of his full-backs. In his absence Stapley dribbled through and passed to Grassam and he put West Ham in front.
After a brief spell of activity from Leyton West Ham came back. A clever dribble by Stapley took the ball all the way to the bye-line before pulling it back for Grassam to make it 2-0 after 30 minutes.
At half-time it was still 2-0. Leyton improved in the second spell but it was still the home side who attacked most. The Leyton defence held steadily almost to the end, but then Stapley made it 3-0 with a header from a corner.
PORTSMOUTH
Fratton Park
3 - 4 (Grassam 3)
27 October 1906
Att: 12,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
A magnificent game was seen at Fratton Park and was notable for the easy manner in which Portsmouth gained a 3-goal lead and the plucky uphill fight West Ham put up to retrieve their position. Portsmouth lost the toss but were soon attacking. Buick was left out of the side injured. Pompeys attack put in some beautiful work in the first half and the West Ham goal had some narrow escapes before Dalrymple opened the scoring. The the Londoners defence which had held out so well capitulated and Bainbridge and Kirby both added goals in quick succession. Then just before half-time the visitors broke away and a hot shot from Grassam was deflected past Phillip by McDonald for a goal to the Hammers. The goal was credited to Grassam, The same player then scored the next two goals to level the scores. There followed a tremendous battle for the decider. Eventually Bainbridge went through and from his centre Dalrymple decided the issue amid a scene of tremendous enthusiasm.
It was a great struggle and the teams are to be congratulated on the magnificent game they put up.
NEW BROMPTON
Upton Park
1 - 1 (Stapley)
3 November 1906
Att; 7,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Blyth
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Kemp
Blackburn
The weather was dull but about 7,000 witnessed the game. Blythe was an able substitute for Jarvis but Stapley was well held by marlin. Lloyd, Harvey and Floyd were impressive in a strong New Brompton defence. For West Ham Kitchen was solid in goal. The anticipated victory for West Ham did not materialise. New Brompton were quicker on the ball from the start. After only 4 minutes Smith made a dash for the home goal and forced a corner. This was admirably placed and Lunn steadying himself as it fell at his feet, gently tapped it into the net. The Hammers equaliser came from excellent play by the whole of the forwards. Stapley forced a corner and from the scramble as it came over Stapley regained possession and scored with a grand shot. West ham then launced a series of heavy attacks but were repelled by the grand defence of the New Brompton rear-guard. Once through, Stapley dribbled through in his characteristic manner but Martin chased back and caught him in time to clear.
PLYMOUTH ARGYLE
Home Park
0 - 0
10 November 1906
Att: 10,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
GEORGE HORN
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
The Argyle backs defended so well that Sutcliffe was rarely troubled. At the same time the West Ham shooting was faulty. Kitchen had more to do than Sutcliffe although the Hammers attacked more. Corrin back after many weeks of absence had to leave the field when his knee broke down again. It was a ding-dong struggle to half time without a goal being scored.
After the break the home side employed the one-back game and the visitors were frequently caught. The game finished as a draw with no goals scored.
BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION
Upton Park
0 - 0
17 November 1906
Att: 5,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Wretched weather kept the attendance down. A keen interesting game with Hammers having Jarvis back in the side following his suspension.
A win for the home side was confidently expected but the visitors put up a stubborn fight, although they were fortunate to survive a penalty kick taken by Kitchen and saved by McDonald.
Gardner had an unusually hectic time against Anthony the visiting right-winger. Anthony had tremendous pace and repeatedly beat the Hammers skipper in a race for the ball. He was a constant source of danger to the home defence and the apparent vulnerability of Gardner against this speedy player forced extra work on Kitchen and Wildman. One of Anthony's, almost constant stream of crosses fell at the feet of Hall, but with only Kitchen to beat the Brighton player slipped.
Near the end Turner handled in the box but to everybody's amazement and disapointment Kitchen made the long trip upfield only to shoot straight at MacDonald who saved at the expense of a corner.
READING
Elm Park
2 - 2 (Grassam, Lindsay)
27 November 1906
Att: 4,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Horn
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Kemp
Blackburn
After 15 minutes and some exciting play in which Stapley and Kemp were prominent. Blackburn swung the ball over and Lindsay tipped it onto Grassam for that player to put Wst Ham ahead. Reading equilised when Raine created an opening for Minster.
The second half was full of exciting incident and most of it was around Kitchen's goal. Near the end Reading were beaten back and a delighted Lindsay put the visitors ahead. With only seconds to go the home side made one last desperate attack and it proved successful for Minster to level the scores with a shot that gave Kitchen no chance.
WATFORD
Upton Park
1 - 1 (Stapley)
1 December 1906
Att: 7,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
STANLEY BOURNE
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Kemp
Blackburn
The visiting players served up capital football and kept the home defenders busy from start to finish. The West Ham defence of late has been subject to some criticsiam and two alterations were made. Gardner and Jarvis standing down in favour of Hammond and Bourne, the latter a promising young local who has been doing excellent work in the reserves as a full-back. It may be said at once that he fully justified his inclusion for although handicapped by having to play in glasses he was not far short of being the best half-back on the field. For the first 30 minutes Watford were immeasuarably superior but Wst Ham gradually settled down. The last half hour found Hammers very much on top and it was only the superb defence of the visitors that staved offf defeat. Biggar kept goal magnificently and was ably supported by his full-backs.
After 25 minutes Watford took the lead. Laws cross enticed Kitchen off his goal-line but Foster was well up and got to the ball first to steer it in. Foster next tested Kitchen with a fierce close range drive. West Ham retaliated and a superb piece of play by Stapley in which he out-witted three defenders and ended with an equalising shot. Soar lost a golden opportunity in the last seconds to earn Watford both points.
NEW BROMPTON
Priestfield Stadium
2 - 2 (Stapley, Watson)
8 December 1906
Att: 5,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Horn
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Miserable conditions, it rained throughout there was a high wind and the surface was slippery. After 2 minutes New Brompton won a corner and from it Cunliffe scored. West Ham's strong defenders prevented any immediate additions. In the 30th minute Blackburn got clear on the left and his cross to the unmarked Stapley was easily converted. Hammers improved in the second half and severely tested the home defence. Watson put West Ham into the lead following good work by Blackburn and Lindsay. The home side became a bit disorganised but recovered when a right-wing movement ended with Warrington levelling. Both sides tried on the heavy ground and the game ended in failing light.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS
Upton Park
0 - 1
15 December 1906
Att: 5,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Confident win expected by the home side, a very difficult side to beat at Upton Park. Queens Park Rangers unexpectedly held their own and were actually in sight of victory. In a sense it was bad luck on the visitors but on the run of play they certainly did not deserve to win for West Ham were much the cleverer side and the goal scored by Rangers was the result of a lucky breakaway.
Queens Park Rangers were weakened by the absence of Yenson and Thompson. Hammond replaced Gardner and Watson returned to partner Blackburn.
Snow fell just before the kick off but there was no trace as the game got underway. Play was vigorous and Stapley received a lot of attention - the referee erred on the side of leniency as Stapley was bowled over time after time. It is certainly not football when a player deliberately leaves the ball to take care of itself and charges full tilt at an opponent. Lindsay was also a victim when a hard return hit him full in the face injuring one of his eyes.
West Ham were nearly always attacking in the first half and bad luck prevented them scoring on more than one occasion. The ball went everywhere bar into the Queens Park Rangers net. The second half started as the first had finished - strenuous. After fifteen minutes Rangers got a sensational breakaway. Sugden took off from near the halfway line and dashing through the West Ham defence at great pace was met first by Wildman who he outwitted and then by Kitchen who he beat easily to give Rangers the lead.
Play then quickened and the excitement was intense as Rangers gave away a penalty, Grassam shot straight at Howes.
At this point the fog descended and only a few yards of pitch could be seen. Play became farcical and the referee after consulting with his linesmen abandoned the match with 7 minutes left for play.
ABANDONED : Fog 83 minutes
FULHAM
Craven Cottage
4 - 1 (Watson 3 [1 pen], Blackburn)
22 December 1906
Att: 10,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Although following six successive drawn Southern League games even the most hopeful West Ham follower could not have anticipated such a crushing defeat of the Southern League champions and current League leaders. This was no fluke and the score does not exaggerate the superiority of the victors. Fulham were unbeaten at home.
The match honours clearly rested with t he visiting forwards their pace dash and variety of attack completely disorganising the Fulham defence and Charlton alone seemed to do himself justice. His partner Ross seemed to lose his temper on several occasions. Fulham's attack was all at sixes and sevens. Threlfall's absence clearly weakened the left wing. West Ham's backs and halves rarely allowed Fulham's forwards to approach Kitchen's charge.
In attack Stapley was irresistible for West Ham while Blackburn was much to clever for Ross. It was a fast and exciting game throughout and the 10,000 attendance got full value for money.
Nearly 20 minutes had elapsed before a goal was scored. Then Watson snapped up a pass, dribbled a few yards then slotted the ball past Fryer well out of his reach. Fulham tried desperately to equalise but 10 minutes before the interval Hammers got a second. Goldie handled inside the 'box' and from the spot kick Watson scored his second goal. The champions then lost heart and at half-time were still two goal behind.
Eight minutes into the second half Fulham who had been attacking hotly got a somewhat lucky goal. Hamilton's clever play had allowed Charlton a shot at goal. The blocked shot came back to Hamilton who was immediately challenged by Wildman but daftly tipped the ball over the full backs head, Hamilton drew Kitchen and gently steered the ball wide of him and into the visitors goal.
Fulham rallied for a spell and the visitors backs kicked out at every conceivable pretext. Then came a sudden dash down the West Ham right-wing. Stapley got the ball from a throw-in then tricked Charlton. Fryer came out but in a hesitant manner but Stapley was too quick over for that player to bang it into an empty net. It was a splendid goal and Stapley received hearty handshakes from all his colleagues. Five minutes later a similar happening this time on the other West Ham wing. Blackburn beat Ross and Morrison and running well in passed back to Watson, as he could not find an opening for himself, Fryer came out to Wetason but the Hammer shot before the Fulham skipper could get to him.
SOUTHAMPTON
Upton Park
1 - 0 (Stapley)
25 December 1906
Att: 20,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Christmas comes but once a year, so the song says, and it's everyone's delight to keep it up. West Ham kept it up in the old sweet way by defeating Southampton at Upton Park by 1-0, the point being scored by Harry Stapley about twenty five minutes from the start. It is West Ham's custom at this season to introduce a Hilsdon or Bridgeman to the notice of the local public. No new face appeared in the team, however, but we saw a fuill-back who gave his finest display so far. He was Hammond, the Woodford amateur.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Upton Park
4 - 2 (Winterhalder 3, Stapley)
29 December 1906
Att: 14,000
DAVID CLARK
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Winterhalder A.
A large number of men are today engaged in removing the snow from the West Ham pitch in preperation for tomorrow's visit of Tottenham Hotspu.
Nearly 14,000 spectators assembled at Upton Park, and saw a vigorously contested game. In three minutes Winterhalder got through the Spurs' defence, and placed West Ham one up. Scarcely had the excitement subsided, when a corner, conceded by Wildman, was turned to account by Reid for the equaliser. Fifteen minutes from the start Woodward found himself with only Clark to beat, and making no mistake, the Spurs took the lead. In the subsequent play West Ham had the best of the game, and a fine single-handed run by Winterhalder ended in his scoring from the left. Within two minutes Winterhalder had outpaced Chaplin and scored his third goal less than half an hour from the start. There was no further scoring before half time. West Ham scored directly after the resumption. Reily, coming out, left Stapley with an open goal, and the centre forward put his side two goals to the good. The subsequent play was exciting. The Spurs could not break down the West Ham defence, and the locals got a meritorious victory by four goals to two.
Local player Winterhalder took the place of Fred Blackburn, his three goals against Spurs takes his tally of six in two games over four days, also scored a hat-trick against Plymouth in the Western League, a feat he can be proud of.
SWINDON TOWN
County Ground
0 - 2
5 January 1907
Att: 5,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Featherstone
Lindsay
Grassam
Watson
Winterhalder A.
Wardrope opened the scoring after thirty minutes' play, and about four minutes from the interval Murphy sent across a centre and the ball dropping at the foot of Kidd he easily beat Kitchen. Towards the close both teams tried hard, and Swindon on several occasions were well placed, but waited too long in front of goal, and the game ended with Swindon two goal winners.
BLACKPOOL : FA Cup (First Round)
Upton Park
2 - 1 (Stapley, Winterhalder)
12 January 1907
Att: 13,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Winterhalder A.
West Ham United were drawn away but the tie was played at Upton Park by arrangement. In an exciting game, West Ham were aggressive in the early stages, but Blackpool, who went in for long passing, threatened danger, owing to the unsteadiness of the home full backs. Play had progressed twenty-seven minutes when West Ham opened the scoring, the goal being the outcome of a fine dropping centre by Lindsay. Stapley had little difficulty in applying the finishing touch. Dunkley missed a glorious chance to equalise just before half time for the Lancastrians.
West Ham began the second half tamely. Wildman and Hammond played well and did many fine things. Winterhalder was watched, but he still managed to scored a brilliant goal twenty-two minutes after the resumption with a narrow angle shot which has become his speciality.
Trouble between Wilcox and Lindsay led to a penalty to West Ham, but Watson's shot was pushed over the top by the Blackpool 'keeper. Asme went on, West Ham appeared sure of victory, but although they put on an extra full back the defence was caught napping and Grundy scored easily for the Northerners with just five minutes remaining; West Ham won by two to one.
Piercy played well at centre-half, Stapley was clever as always and made his regular stirring dashes at goal. He was a big handful for his full-back marker.
The 13,000 attendance realised £480 in gate receipts.
NORWICH CITY
Upton Park
3 - 1 (Stapley 2, Lindsay)
19 January 1907
Att: 7,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Winterhalder A.
West Ham needed to avenge an unlucky defeat at the hands of the Canaries earlier in the season. Gardner's reappearance as captain seemed to imbue confidence in the side. Despite the dull weather there were 7,000 in attandance. Stapley once again received plenty of close attention but could not be stopped from scoring twice. Piecey and Allison were effective at half-back. A long drop shot from Allison deceived Thompson and bounced off his hands and under the bar. West Ham's spectators behind that goal claimed a score but the referee declined. A minute later Stapley put the Boleyn men ahead. Kitchen was sound in goal and saved one dangerous situation when Ross broke through the home defence. A minute later Ross was more successful when he netted the visitors equaliser in off an upright. Just before the break Stapley hit a terrific shot at goal. Thompson partially saved but Lindsay following up scored to make in 2-1 at half-time.
The second half was only two minutes old when a corner taken by Watson was headed in by Stapley. Despite the many more chances that were squandered by both sides the game ended in favour of the home side by two goals to one.
LUTON TOWN
Kenilworth Road
1 - 1 (Stapley)
26 January 1907
Att: 4,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Winterhalder A.
West Ham's run of good fortune during the past few weeks received a check when they were only able to effect a draw with Luton.
Luton did a great deal of the attacking in the first half, and Kitchen was very promient, bringing off remarkable fine saves, but he was beaten through a mistake by Gardner mis-kicking, Barnes secured, and easily beat Kitchen. The home side had the upper hand up to the interval, but there was no further scoring.
On resuming, Srapley forced a corner off Fitzpatrick in the first minute. The ball travelled quickly from end to end, but neither goalkeeper was tested. Stapley did good work, and after twenty-five minutes' play equalised with a grand shot. Luton pressed after this, and were somewhat unlucky, Brown and Fitzpatrick both sending shots inches wide. Kitchen was in splendid form also. The play was even and interesting up to the finish, but neither side could gain the lead, though both made strenuous efforts, and a good game ended in a draw of one goal all.
EVERTON : FA Cup (Second Round)
Upton Park
1 - 2 (Stapley)
2 February 1907
Att: 14,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Gardner
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Winterhalder A.
Southern League Hammers were at home to mighty Everton at Upton Park. The Merseyside men were holders of the trophy, and they had a great reputation to uphold.
West Ham refused the very tempting offer of £700 to play the tie at Goodison Park. Indeed, so worried were the Goodison Park club playing on a smaller pitch, that on the day before the match Mr. Will Cuff (an Everton director who was later to become President of the Football League) visited Upton Park to measure the pitch and ensure that it complied with regulations!
The draw was the tit-bit of the second round, and preparations had been made for a record attendance, but the crowd did not reach high water mark, the increased entrance fee doubtless having much to do with this. Gate addmission was 1/- and the total receipts for the 14,000 attendance were £860.
This game was thrown away by West Ham they had three glorious chances in the opening half hour but fluffed them all.
The best of them fell to Winterhalder, the youngster usually so realiable a shot had the whole goal at his mercy but shot wide. He later amended when helping Stapley to the first goal after 35 minutes. Lindsay aslo missed a yawning goal.
Everton equalised when Sharp waltzed around Gardner and Jarvis then miskicked. The ball went to Settle and he levelled. Athalf-time the score was 1-1.
In the second period Everton were a did=ferent side, quickly spotting that Garndner was having a terible time against Sharp they kept a constant stream of passes aimed at that wing. Gradually they got complete control and 12 minutes after the break Sharp shot through a crowd and into the net before Kitchen had a chance to see it.
The visitors were so impressed with the performance of Arthur Winterhalder on our wing that they later obtained his transfer to them.
BRENTFORD
Griffin Park
0 - 0
9 February 1907
Att: 6,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Taylor
Allison
Piercy
Blackburn
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Winterhalder A.
Hammers were lucky to escape defeat. After two minutes Taylor attempting to clear a shot from Underwood wa floored by his own goalie, Kitchen. Taylor fell so heavily he disclocated his shoulder and took no further part in the proceedings. Curiously, Taylor had dislocated the same shoulder in a West Ern League match against Portsmouth back in September.
No sooner had play restarted when Pentland slipped on the greasy ground and had to retire. Pentland returned for a few minutes later in the game.
Wildman received a nasty kick in the face but played on and McAllister had to leave the field through injury leaving Brentford to finish the match with nine men. The pitch was in an awful condition but the football was of an entertaining standard. The first half was even although West Ham's forwards showed the more method. Williams kept goal in capital style especially in dealing with one fierce shot from Winterhalder.
At the other end Parsonage hit the bar and the clever Hagen shaved a post. At this stage West ham's goal was having a charmed existence and Parsonage once more struck the woodwork, this time with a header. Kitchen was having a grand game in the mud when referee Johns blew for time. Johns was involved in a crowd incident after the game. He was struck in the face by a spectator as he left the field. After reaching the dressing room he left to seek police assistance but was further molested by a section of the crowd.
MILLWALL ATHLETIC
Upton Park
0 - 1
16 February 1907
Att: 16,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Fair
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Winterhalder A.
The game aroused tremendous local interest and was played before an attendance larger than that which witnessed the Everton cup-tie. The weather was favourable. Millwall deserved their victory for their grit and perseverance especially in the opening half when they faced the wind.
Some feeling was shown between the players and there were frequent stoppages for injuries. The referee however kept control.
Hillman the Dockers recent signing from Manchester City was absent injured and Joyce keft goal for the visitors. Hammers forwards put the Millwall rear-guard under extreme pressure but couldn't get through. At the other end Hunter almost got clear but was bowled over by Allison.
A Dean shot struck the bar and came out to Hunter who missed a fine chance. Play was now very exciting and the ball was travelling up and down the field at a bewildering pace.
Joyce was almost beaten by Stapley's long drive which he had to punch clear. Grassam had a chance but was slow to shoot and Frost robbed him. Half-time 0-0.
Joyce was soon in action in the second half having to save shots from Stapley and Winterhalder. Lindsay's shot was fumbled by Joyce and there were claims for a goal but the referee declined.
Millwall's turn to attack led to Dean having a fine run, his cross was meet first time by Hunter who beat Kitchen with a terrific shot. Play became very vigorous after this. Millwall withdrew a forward and played out time on defence.
LEYTON
Hare & Hounds
0 - 0
23 February 1907
Att: 10,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Fair
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Featherstone
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Turnbull and Kelly both had splendid chances to win the game for Leyton. Meredith the Leyton captain declined an international cap to play in this game.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS
Upton Park
2 - 1 (Grassam, Watson [pen])
25 February 1907
Att: 4,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Fair
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Queens Park Rangers have only themselves to blame for losing this one. They were the better side but two indiscrections by right back Fidler on West Ham's centre forward Stapley led to the award of two penalties - both of which were scored.
The game was a replay of the match abandoned last December with Rangers leading 1-0. For the most part the visitors were much too good for the home backs but behind the backs they encountered a mighty obstacle in Kitchen who gave a fine display against a decidedly wobbly defence.
Vigor and dash were the Rangers recipe. After 10 minutes Fidler conceded the first penalty for jumping. Watson stepped up and scored. Halfway through the first-half some clever passing led to Anderson equalising.
After half an hour of the second period Fidler conceded yet another penalty when he pushed Stapley. Again Watson stepped forward but this time Howes turned his shot aside. Grassam, however was handy and snapping up the loose ball he netted. Piercy cut his head in a collision near the end and was said to be feeling the effects after the game.
PORTSMOUTH
Upton Park
3 - 0 (Stapley 2, Lindsay)
2 March 1907
Att: 11,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Watson
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Blackburn
Winterhalder A.
A well merited success over a championship chasing side by a weakened West Ham team. Watson at centre-half in place of Piercy still suffering slight concussion. Hammond replacing Fair. Hammers won the toss and Stapley kicked-off against a slight wind. Portsmouth adopted vigorous tactics from the start.
Phillips was early in action saving cleverly from both Stapley and Grassam. Shortly after, Jarvis injured his leg badly - down to ten men Blackburn became a defender. Stapley was badly fouled by Thomson and the free kick narrowly missed scoring. Jarvis came back after 15 minutes absence. West Ham went on the offensive. Stapley looked certain to score but was bustled off the ball by Walker and Thomson but the ball ran loose to Lindsay who put West Ham one-up.
Pompey replied with attacks that forced Kitchen to save from Dalrymple and McKenzie but Hammers were still the superior side. The visitors made a couple of positional changes for the second half but to no good effect. The home side soon added a second goal when Stapley beat Phillips from Grassam's pass.
Portsmouth's defenders became even more vigorous and Stapley was fouled in quick succession by Walker and McDonald. Hunter was hurt and that caused another of many stoppages. West Ham's third goal came when Phillips fumbled Grassam's shot when under pressure from Winterhalder. Stapley was on hand to net his second.
NORTHAMPTON TOWN
County Ground
0 - 0
7 March 1907
Att: 2,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Piercy
Allison
Watson
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Blackburn
Winterhalder A.
West Ham were forced by injuries into playing centre half Piercy at left back. Weather spoilt the gate. Northampton were bottom of the league going into this match. The home side won the toss and West Ham had to kick towards the town - that is to say - against the wind.
Early on Chettle had a shot diverted by Piercy from two yards out. Lindsay spoilt a chance for Hammers and at the other end Platt was robbed in the nick of time as he was about to shoot.
West Ham got away again and this time Stapley was felled by Dunkley in the penalty area. Kitchen came up for the kick but his hard low drive was saved off Cooch's foot.
The home side attacked again and Kitchen saved a hard straight drive from Springthorpe. Stapley and Lindsay broke through but the latter shot over.
Tirrell at left half was starting many of the home sides attacks. The 'Cobblers' passing was good and sometimes clever but when it came to shooting there was always somebody handy in the West Ham defence to block.
Tirrell put Freeman away but as Wildman came at him to tackle he shot hastily wide. The Cobblers enjoyed long periods of attack but Hammers occasionally broke away and Hartshorne on one assault made a fine stop.
A corner to Northampton was followed by a West Ham breakaway but Lindsay was pulled up for offside. Then Freeman had a capital chance. With a ten yard start on Piercy he got away but instead of running on to shoot he was forced out and his eventual centre was wasted. Even better chances fell to him, and Watkins but both were missed. From a corner Dunkley shot a foot over the bar. Just on half time Kitchen stopped a fine volley from Watkins.
Northampton continued to attack at the start of the second half - Kitchen had to run out and kick clear. At the other end Wildman wasted a chance and Stapley tried one of his characteristic runs but was stopped by three Northampton defenders. Springthorpe hit the side net of Kitchen's goal. Further chances continued to fall to both sides but all were wide high or saved. Springthorpe could have settled it near the end when Piercy missed a centre from Freeman. A good game ended 0-0.
PLYMOUTH ARGYLE
Upton Park
0 - 0
16 March 1907
Att: 6,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Kemp
Blackburn
Disappointing game on a treacherous and slippery ground. Kemp displaced Watson for West Ham. Excitement was rare mainly dure to two competant defences. Kemp and Blackburn exchanged places for the second half but there was no improvement. Allison was hurt near the end and had to leave the field.
BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION
Goldstone Ground
0 - 2
23 March 1907
Att: 6,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
DAN WOODARDS
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Kemp
Blackburn
Hammers were easily beaten in the beautiful Spring weather at Brighton. Neither side was at full strength. Allison was missing from the visiting XI. Hall scored both Brighton's goals. Another brilliant display by goalkeeper Kitchen.
CRYSTAL PALACE
Upton Park
1 - 1 (Winterhalder)
25 March 1907
Att: 3,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Woodards
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Blackburn
Winterhalder A.
Fresh from their victory over First Division Newcastle United in the FA Cup, it was plain to see why they were successful and their qualities showed in this match which shared the points at Upton Park.
West Ham had 70% of the play but a sturdy defence of Hewittson, Collyer and especially Needham deprived them of success. The visitors goal escaped narrowly from Winterhalder, Stapley and Blackburn and the interval was approaching as Stapley gave Winterhalder a fine pass to enable him to put West Ham in front. Five minutes after the change of ends Crystal Palace equalised. Wallace hared up the right wing and dropped in a fine centre. The home defenders hesitated and Harker dashed in to beat Kitchen. Stapley then unaccountably missed an open goal made by Winterhalder. The match was played under perfect conditions but the very dry surface made the ball difficult to control.
READING
Upton Park
2 - 0 (Allison [pen], Blackburn)
30 March 1907
Att: 6,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Only five minutes had gone when Blackburn scored. Kitchen was never pressed. After 20 minutes a 'penalty' was awarded to West Ham and Allison converted against his old club. Early in the second period Reading lost Brown injured Blackburn twice hit the left hand post. The Reading goal was severely bombarded but no further scoring took place.
SOUTHAMPTON
The Dell
3 - 2 (Jarvis, Stapley, Watson)
1 April 1907
Att: 8,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Taylor
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Hammers were accompanied by a considerable number of supporters. Kitchen uncharacteristically muffed a shot from Jepp and before he could recover Patten rushed up to score. West Ham then pressed for a time and Eastham robbed Stapley just in the nick of time. Wildman did likewise on Radford at the other end. A dangerous centre by Lindsay was cleared by Eastham and at half time it was still 1-0 to the Saints.
Stapley equalised early in the second half with a fast shot. Saints now with the sun in their eyes faltered. A Lindsay corner forced off Glover was placed onto Watson's head and it was 2-1 to West Ham. Jeffries levelled for Saints but Jarvis got the winner from another well placed corner from Lindsay. A clever save from Clawley prevented Stapley making it four.
WATFORD
Cassio Road
0 - 2
6 April 1907
Att: 4,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Taylor
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
The visitors won the toss and played with the aid of a strong wind. Strong attacks by Hammers found the home defence in fine fettle. One good chance fell to Stapley but he shot into Biggar's hands as he advanced. Law missed then Turner missed but Frost put the finish on a grand bit of combination by curling the ball passed Kitchen as he came out and then walking the ball in.
Biggar then did good ork to keep the advantage until half-time.
Watford swarmed to the attack after the break when they gained the advantage the wind offered. Fyfe missed a great opportunity through not be able to control the ball. Then Law came through with a fine run but was robbed at the last moment.
Turner beat two Hammers defenders and centred beautifully. The ball dropped at Fyfe's feet but finding himself covered he steered it on to Forster who sent a shot into the net well wide of Kitchen.
After this torrents of rain came down and completely spoilt the rest of the game. Fyfe netted again but was given offside. Watford had most of the play to the finish but Hammers made several rushes that caused Biggar an anxious moment or two. But in the end Goodall's men deserved their 2-0 victory.
NORTHAMPTON TOWN
Upton Park
4 - 0 (Grassam 2, Stapley 2)
13 April 1907
Att: 2,500
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
Northants have won only 4 of 36 league engagements this season. West Ham's directors are so well satisfied with the team that all of them have been retained for next season, although Lindsay and Jarvis have yet to come to terms.
The game was started after Allison won the toss and chose to play with the slight breeze. Play was very slack to begin with and there was plenty of aimless long kicking. In the fifth minute Grassam put Hammers ahead. Lindsay missed a good chance after fine work by Watson. Cooch followed this with grand saves from Watson again, and Blackburn. A couple of shots from Platt's bestirred Kitchen. half-time 1-0.
West Ham's second goal came from Stapley who got through the Northants defence on his own. The visitors fell away after this. Stapley was awarded a goal which was disputed by the visitors and Grassam added a fourth.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS
Royal Agricultural Society Showgrounds
0 - 2
20 April 1907
Att: 5,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Jarvis
Lindsay
Grassam
Stapley
Watson
Blackburn
The standard of play was never high. Right winger Green was responsible for Rangers first goal. He walked his way cleverly through the visitors defence and wound up with a shot that tested Kitchen severely. The ball was not cleared and Skilton dashing up scored nicely. Whitle and Fidler were q most effective if vigorous pair of backs and with Green and Skilton always thrusting their way through the opposition, Queens Park Rangers were generally on top.
Skilton was brought down in the penalty area but the referee overlooked the offence as Fletcher fastened onto the ball and beat Kitchen with great force. As the crowd began to drift away towards the end, threatening little crowd gathered around Kitchen's goal. What he had done was not clear but the referee became aware of his situation and at the end walked with Kitchen from the field.
FULHAM
Upton Park
4 - 1 (Blackburn, Randall, Watson, Winterhalder)
27 April 1907
Att: 10,000
Kitchen
Wildman
Hammond
Allison
Piercy
Horn
Lindsay
TOMMY RANDALL
Watson
Blackburn
Winterhalder A.
History repeated itself as for the third time this season West Ham trounced Fulham. The usually strong defence of the west Londoners once more had to bow to the Eastenders. And with this with Winterhalder hurt early on and having to play with only four forwards for most of the game. Up front Blackburn was left almost on his own and he rose to the occasion in magnificent style and repeatedly outwitted Ross when in possession of the ball.
Watson did well in the centre and Lindsay was impressive on the other wing. The half-backs were in fine form and Horn did particularly well as deputy for Jarvis. Wildman was the best of a sound pair of full-backs, and behind all this Kitchen was splendid in goal. Fulham had an off day. Their defence was hustled to such an extent that their backs frequently mis-timed their kicks and sent the ball in all directions. The halves were not as reliable as usual Morrison making several mistakes.
Hamilton was best of the visiting forwards. The weather was perfect when Watson kicked off against a slight breeze. For the first 10 minutes play was disappointing. Horne the Fulham goalkeeper saved from Blackburn's free kick, the first moment of any excitement.
Winterhalder was then hurt in a tussle with Ross and was left limping for the remainder. Fast play followed with West Ham combining splendidly for Lindsay to send in a terrific shot which Horne fisted out to the other wing.
Blackburn retrieved the ball and swiftly sent it to Watson and he put the home side one up with a lovely shot. Fulham were now strictly on the defence and Horne was called on to save shots from Lindsay and Blackburn. A break by Threlfall brought some relief and for a spell it looked as if Fulham might equalise.
From a piece of loose play in midfield Randall darted passed Thorpe and meeting with no opposition went straight through and scored. A heavy shower during the interval made the surface slippery, but West Ham soon mastered the conditions. Horne saved three shots in quick succession but in dealing with a fourth from Watson he only parried the ball and Blackburn dashed in to make it 3-0.
The champions then broke at top speed and Kitchen only got to a Threlfall shot but found the ball too slippery to hold and Hamilton following up tipped it into goal. A moment later Freeman headed against the bar and after that Fulham dropped away. When Winterhalder added a fourth the rout was complete.