
Only Once a Blue, William Rowley – Tony Onslow
When Everton began their first season at Goodison Park they neededcover in the position of Goalkeeper due to the tragic loss of John Angusfollowing their Championship success at Anfield. Overtures were made to the currant Scottish International Jim Wilson, but he could not be lured away from his position at Vale of Leven, so Everton invited Stoke player William Rowley to join them on a visit to Scotland.
Born November 1865 in the Potteries town of Hanley, he was the child of Charles, a Clarke, and his Wife Sarah. However, by 1871, Sarah is no longer living and William, along with his Father, is living at the home of his Grandparents in Hanley. By 1881he is living with his Auntie and his cousins and has begun to work as a Potter. Around 1884 he joined Burslam Port Vale and was quickly chosen to play representative matches for Staffordshire. Next season he took part in the clubs inaugural FA Cup campaign which saw them having to withdraw when faced with an expensive replayed game against Essex based Brentwood. Rowley then caused a controversy when, unbeknown to the Burslam side, he joined neighbours Stoke which resulted in court case and in his new club having pay a fine which amounted to £5. Both sidesnext applied for membership of the Football League, but it...