STOKE v. ASTON VILLA. The champions of the League made their debut for the season on the Potter’s ground on Saturday, and, to the surprise of everyone, were beaten severely. The Stoke committee had been compelled to take strict measures with four of their men, and suspend them, and fill their places with reserve men. So well did the latter play that the suspends will have to look at their colours. There were only some spectators 4,000 present. The Potters are poor losers. The home side quickly got to work, and after Wilkes had twice done good work, Heames, one of the new men, got clear of his back, and placing nicely to Schofield that player beat Wilkes easily. Rowley had to effect several clearances. Dickson came near to scoring again for Stoke, and then Schofield made sure of a shot by Dickson. The home side were having a lot the best of everything, Heames playing brilliantly. Athersmith and Chatt were each dangerous; but the home side scored again, and led at the interval three goals to nil. The Villa went to work with will on the re-start, and Athersmith scored a rattling goal. Play slacked down lot, both sides feeling tired with their exertions. Just on time Dickson scored again. Result:—Stoke. four; Aston Villa, one.