Past Seasons - 1909/1910

Division: Lancashire Combination Division A

One of the few bright features of 1909-10 was the form of George Latham. He was a full-back and a popular favourite with the crowd. He became the first player to gain International honours while actually playing with Southport when he was capped by Wales against England. At the end of the season he was transferred to Stoke City and served for many years as Cardiff City’s trainer. He also won the Military Cross during the First World War.

The following season, which as it transpired, was their last in the Lancashire Combination, Central defeated their old rivals Darwen in the FA Cup. Walter Knowles-linesman and president of the Darwen club-was ordered off by the referee for arguing when he refused Darwen a penalty. An even more unpleasant incident occurred on December 17 th, 1910 when “Dossy” Wright was sent off for jumping at an opponent. The referee was molested as he left the field and several blows were aimed at him. As a result the club were ordered to post warning notices. Wright, the captain, was a rugged quick tackling defender. He was one of the greatest characters the club ever had. As tough as teak, his pet expression used to be “I can’t play football but I can stop those who think they can” It was ironic, to say the least, that his daughter Belinda should grow up to achieve national fame as a prima ballerina. Some contrast!

Position Team P W D L F A Pts
1 Everton Liverpool II 38 22 8 8 87 39 52
2 Bolton Wanderers II 38 21 9 8 83 49 51
3 Accrington Stanley 38 20 7 11 71 62 47
4 Chorley 38 18 11 9 61 55 47
5 Bury II 38 20 4 14 81 66 44
6 Manchester City II 38 17 9 12 65 58 43
7 Carlisle United 38 14 11 13 69 60 39
8 Nelson FC 38 14 10 14 61 59 38
9 Burnley II 38 13 11 14 66 69 37
10 Preston North End II 38 15 6 17 53 54 36
11 Blackburn Rovers II 38 14 8 16 59 77 36
12 Workington FC 38 14 8 16 67 58 36
13 Colne 38 13 9 16 69 68 35
14 Manchester United II 38 15 5 18 71 75 35
15 Oldham Athletic II 38 14 6 18 47 59 34
16 St.Helens Recreation 38 13 8 17 58 69 34
17 Liverpool II 38 12 9 17 73 80 33
18 Southport Central 38 13 7 18 61 67 33
19 Hyde 38 10 7 21 54 94 27
20 St.Helens Town 38 10 3 25 48 86 23