TOW LAW TOWN AFC “THETOWLAWYERS”LAWTOWN AFC V ASHINGTON AFC Saturday 20th August 2022 • 3.00pm KO FA Cup Preliminary Round
12 Noon – 4pm Function AVAILABLERoomFREE OF CHARGE Contact Anita Tel: (01388) 762429 Crook Golf Club, Low Jobs Crook,Hill, Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”2
Steve Moralee, Club Secretary, Tow Law Town AFC
The Lawyer’s Brief Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers” 3
Pop over & watch one of the regions other Black & White teams in action, whilst enjoying our hospitality. Enjoy the day, thank you for your support.
Good afternoon. Today we welcome our visitors, Ashington AFC to Ironworks Road for our FA Cup 1st qualifying round fixture. It’s fair to say that whilst we haven’t made the FA Cup for a few seasons our visitors have progressed into promotion favourites & regular entrants into the competition. After a disappointing couple of weeks since the Tadcaster game, Michael, Warren & the team will be looking for a good performance today. We hope you all enjoy the game & whilst doing so partake of some good food from our canteen, run by Megan & Lisa. In the bar, Hayley will be on hand to serve drinks, £3 per pint/double or you can buy 4 for Tomorrow£10. afternoon, from 4.30pm we will be showcasing Newcastle United v Manchester City on our 3 Sky Sports screens.
Welcome to Helme Park Service Station, Located on Bridge Street, Tow Law, County Durham, DL13 4LD We are a family run business with your needs at out hearts. Telephone 01388 731341 Email Martin@helmeparkservicestation.co.uk Welcome to Tow Law Serrvice Station,. We are located on Bridge Street, Tow Law, County Durham, DL13 4LD. We are a family run business with your needs at our heart. Telephone 01388 731341 E-mail: budgiehpss@gmail.com Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”4
Put your two hands together and interlock your fingers, place your hands in the centre of the chest and push hard and fast to the beat of Stayin’ Alive or Baby Shark. Keep going until professional help arrives or the person starts to regain consciousness.
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HOW TO DO CPR
CHECK FOR RESPONSE
CHECK FOR DANGER
START HANDS-ONLY CPR
Gently shake the person by the shoulders and ask if they can hear you.
SHOUT FOR HELP
Look around for risks to make sure you won’t be putting yourself in danger by helping.
USE A DEFIBRILLATOR
If you don’t get a response and the person is not breathing or not breathing normally (do not put your face next to theirs when checking), they are in cardi ac arrest and you should shout for someone to help you.
CALL 999 Call 999 and make sure an ambulance is on its way. You will be talked through what to do and given the location of a defibrillator if there is one nearby.
Please see our ‘How to use a defibrillator’ poster.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR for short, is a simple life-saving technique given to someone in cardiac arrest. It aims to take over the job of the heart and lungs by keeping blood and oxygen flowing through the body.
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If you think there is a risk of infection, place a cloth, towel or piece of clothing loosely over the patient’s mouth and nose.
COVER MOUTH AND NOSE WITH CLOTH
Tow Law Football Club is equipped with a fully licensed bar, Sky TV, karaoke/disco equipment & a small kitchen to cater for food. The club itself is ideal for weddings, christenings, birthdays and parties, any type of celebration inside and outside. Male/female and disabled toilets, There is also ample parking to the right side of the main building The club can hold up to 80 people comfortably. If you would like to discuss booking an event at Tow Law Football Club club please call 01388 731 443. The Club HouseTowLawTownAFC“The Lawyers”6
TOW LAW TOWN AFC BAR PRICE LIST BUY 8 DRINKS TOKENS FOR £20 ITEM PINT HALF-PINT JOHN SMITHS £3.00p £2.00p FOSTERS LAGER £3.00p £2.00p DARK FRUIT £3.00p £2.00p GUINNESS £3.00p BOTTLES OF BULMERS ETC £3.00p SPIRITS SPIRITS & LQUEURS DOUBLE SINGLE £3.00p £2.00p £3.00p £2.00p £3.00p £2.00p £3.00p £2.00p £3.00p £2.00p JACK MARTELLDANIELSBRANDYSOUTHERNCOMFORTMALTWHISKEY WINE GLASS 175CL -£3.00p BOTTLE £12 CAN OF ENERGY/J2O/TONICCOKE/ORANGE/ £1.00p CARBONATEDDRINKS £2.00p/PINT £1.00p/HALF DASH OF CORDIAL/LEMONADE 20P Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers” 7
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR MULTI-BUY PROMISE. BUY 8 TOKENS FOR £20.00P EACH TOKEN IS WORTH 1 PINTOR 1 PREMIUMDOUBLESPIRIT Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”8
Whether you are in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, or anywhere else in the UK, you need look no further than Northern Floorcraft. Our high quality workmanship, commitment to excellent customer service, decades of experience, and huge range of flooring types and styles is hard to match. We know what it takes to work with individuals, and treat all such customers with the respect they deserve, but we can also mix it with the big boys and hold several commercial contracts too. NORTHERN Email:TELEPHONE:NE8TYNEGATESHEAD,LOBLEYBENSHAM(GATESHEAD)FLOORCRAFTLTD,TRADINGESTATE,HILLROAD,&WEAR,2XN0191-4781887.enquiries@northernfloorcraft.co.ukEFFICIENTCARPETFITTERSINGATESHEAD Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers” 9
Dan has returned to the Club, having spent 3 seasons in Scotland with Gretna FC. He’s gained a lot of experience & will be an asset in defence or midfield. Dom Joynes (Defender): Dom is an experienced left-sided defender, who spent 2021-22 with Pickering Town at Step 4. (Sponsored by CHRIS RUSS)
Coach): Mark was most recently with Durham City. He joined the Lawyers as GK Coach to assist with player development.
Rachel Davison (Physio): Rachel has joined Tow Law as physio, having spent 2 seasons with Consett. Previously with Sunderland RCA & Prudhoe, she is a member of the Lowther football family. Tom (Goalkeeper):Orton
Pen Pics Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”10
Dan (Defender):Harvey
Lawyers
Ryan McKinnon (Defender): The big centre-back originally signed on loan from Consett in January 2020, making the move permanent for the 20-21 season. He spent eight years at Newcastle United Academy. He’s the Club Captain, leading by example. (Sponsored by @KendallRowanx) Lewis Milner (Defender): Lewis is another player who joined The Lawyers from Willington. A strong central defender, we had tried on numerous occasions to land him & finally succeeded in 2019, since then he’s been consistent in the team.
Michael Vasey (Manager): Michael has a wealth of ENL experience, having played for Tow Law, Crook, Newcastle Blue Star, Durham City & Blyth Spartans. He previously managed the Club & returned for the 2019/20 season.
Tom is an goalkeeperNorthernexperiencedLeague&greatshotstopper,inhis3rdstintfortheClub.
(Sponsored by JEFF MARRIOTT) Warren Pearson (Coach): Warren played for Tow Law in the 80’s & 90’s & in the FA. Vase Final at Wembley. Most recently on the coaching staff at Queen of the South, his experience is pivotal to the Lawyers success. (Sponsored by JEFF MarkMARRIOTT)Spedding(GK
Chris Renshaw (Defender): Renny is one player you wouldn’t want to cross. A fully committed tackler, who leads by example. Experienced Northern League player, who lifts the crowd & the players around him. (Sponsored by GERARD ARMSTRONG)KurtSeymour(Defender): Kurt is a natural centre-half, signed from Brandon United. Previously with Willington, he’s one the Management Team have tracked for a while. Barrie Smith (Defender): Barrie is a vastly experienced defender, having spent many seasons with South Shields as they progressed up the football pyramid.
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Aaron Hardy (Forward): Aaron joined us for the 2021/22 season from Hayden Bridge FC in the Northern Alliance, where he was a prolific, young goal scorer.
Liam is a young full back with experience in the EBAC Northern League. He joins us having been with Bishop Auckland last season. Previously with Fleetwood FC in the Football League, under Joey Barton. (Sponsored by LEE ELECTRICALS)STOCKDALE
Nic Marley (Forward): Nic joined Tow Law in November 2021, from Esh Winning. He’s a big strong centre-forward, a threat in the air or on the ground.
Ethan Bewley (Forward): Previously with Ponteland FC, Ethan is just starting his Northern League career. His work rate & willingness to run is an example to everyone.
David Parker (Forward): David has returned to his North-East roots, having spent a number of years in the Armed Forces. Very comfortable on the ball, he will slot easily into the team
Liam (Defender):Goldsborough
Brandon Mallaburn (Midfield): Brandon is a young central midfield player, a young player to keep an eye on. He joins us from Shildon Reserves. (Sponsored by JADE INTERIORS) Joel Pearson (Midfield): Joel is a midfield player, who can also be an attacking wing back. He joined Tow Law after 7 years at Queen of the South.
Thomas McAloon (Forward): Thomas joined Tow Law from Consett. He is a Northern Ireland U17 international. He can play midfield or up front. Previous Clubs include Bishop Auckland, Sunderland RCA & Newton Aycliffe.
Aaron Willoughby (Forward): Aaron is a local lad, who played against us for Hartlepool United in the 19/20 Durham Challenge Cup. A forward with an eye for goal, he has lots of ability.
Luke Bailey (Midfield): Luke joined from Willington. He’s very comfortable on the ball, with a great engine & an eye for a killer pass.
Harvey Smith (Midfield): Harvey makes up the father/son duo in the squad alongside Barrie. He’s an excellent prospect, having spent many seasons in South Shields Academy. Rob White (Midfield): Rob is an exciting wide player with lots of pace. Previously with Brandon United & Harrogate Town. Adrei Ardelean (Forward): Andrei is a strong, experienced Northern League centre-forward. Previously with Consett & Newton Aycliffe FC, he brings a new look to our forward line. (Sponsored by TOW LAW PLASTERING SERVICES LTD.)
You receive credit in all home fixture programmes & social media channels plus a photograph with your player taken by our professional club photographer, Ritchie Coatsworth. Contact Club Secretary Steve Moralee on 07810 238 731 to see which players are available. SPONSORSHIPPLAYER SPONSORSHIP£502022-23 forwholetheseason Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”12
Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers” 13
WEAR VALLEY TANKS SUPPLIERS OF IBC STILLAGE TANKS & FITTINGS 07974 158 825 WE NOW ACCEPT CARD (Pleasewearvalleytanks@gmail.comPAYMENTSTANKCOLLECTIONONLYringasouryardisnotalwaysmanned) Based just off A689 Toronto bypass. Bishop Auckland DL14 7SB Next to Kynren 8 miles from A1 Junction 60 Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”14
Michael Vasey & Warren Pearson T.A.T.
Today’s FA Cup game with Ashington will be a massive challenge. Ashington have really progressed over the past few seasons and have done unbelievably well with summer transfers so we are under no illusions of the task facing us. We are sure it will be a very good game to Unfortunatelywatch.we
won’t have Rob White available due to a hamstring injury but hopefully we should have everyone else fit and available.
(Technical Area Talk) Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers” 15
It’s been a tough start to the season filled with ups and downs but this is what we expected. We have been promoted to a very high standard league and it will take time for our new look squad to take shape and adapt to this tough league. We must all be patient and strive to progress game by game and week by week, this will demand high levels of mental toughness by players and management however once achieved the rewards of this will be high.
Fresh Bread • Fresh Pies • Cakes Sandwiches • Outside Catering Everything is freshly homemade on site. 57 High Street, Tow Law, DL13 4DP Tel: 07584 411 195 Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”16
The “Lawyers” were founded in 1890 and became founder members of the Auckland and District League in 1892. The following year they won the Durham Amateur Cup. They first joined the Northern League in 1894, winning the Durham Challenge Cup two years later. After leaving the Northern League the Lawyers played in the South Durham Alliance (1900 to 1905) and Crook and District League (1912 to 1914). After the war the club played in the Auckland and District League until being readmitted to the Northern League in 1920 where it has played ever since. Until 1994/95 season the club had not won the championship apart from two successive seasons 1923/24 and 1924/25. In between the League Cup was won in 1973/74 when Ashington were beaten 2-1 in the final at Crook. The 1994/95 League Championship win is a certainly an outstanding memory for the club especially as it was won by 14 clear points. Another outstanding memory was the tremendous F.A. Cup run of 1967/68. Having reached the first round Tow Law beat Mansfield 5-1 and in the second round drew 1-1 with Shrewsbury at Ironworks Road. The Lawyers went into the hat for the Third Round and drew a home tie with Arsenal. Sadly, it was not to be after they went down 6-2 at Shrewsbury in the replay. Frank McGee reported after the replay “Arsenal were saved from a fate worse than death - a trip to Tow Law in January”. Peter Quigley and Tony Heslop took the Club on its first visit to Wembley was made on 9th May 1998 after a tremendous F.A. Vase run. It was a splendid adventure which sadly ended with a 1-0 defeat by Tiverton. The Lawyers first ground was in Church Lane, but the present Ironworks Road ground was built by volunteers during the miners’ strike of 1892/93. Ironically it was rebuilt during another miners strike in 1921. Today the much-improved state of the ground is down to the regular work which has been done since 1921 by many hardworking bands of voluntary labour. A major scare occurred early in the 2004/05 season, the playing surface was struck by subsidence, rendering it unplayable. The Club was forced to ground share at Esh Winning for the remainder of the season, whist repairs were carried out by the Coal ContinuityBoard.at the club was provided by the longest serving trio of officials in the League, Chairman Harry Hodgson, Treasurer Harry Dixon and Club Secretary Bernard Fairbairn who followed his father and grandfather into the job.)
They had over 100 years’ service between them. Harry Hodgson stood down as Chairman at the end of the 95/96 season. At the end of 1997 Harry Dixon also stood down but stayed on as the Club President until his death in 2002. Harry Hodgson took over as President. Bernard Faribairn stepped down as Secretary in 2007 after being in the post since 1961 – over 40 years. “A prisoner would get less for murder. During 2004, Harry Hodgson again showed his devotion to the Club, returning as Chairman for 1 last year. Following the 2004/05 season he was replaced by Sandra Gordon, the first female Chair at the Club and only the third in the long history of the FamousLeague.ex-players include Billy Hall who played for Blackpool and Manchester City, Chris Waddle who transferred to Newcastle in 1980 & Steve Howard of Leicester City.
Lawyers Club History Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers” 17
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Sunderland
Ironworks
The
Division 1 15/10/22 Tow
Division 1 14/09/22 Crook
The
Division 1 01/10/22
Division 1 Tow
Division 1 06/09/22 Newcastle
Woodhorn
Division 1 22/10/22 Carlisle
Teesdale
Tow Law Town v West Auckland Town 7:30pm v Tow Law Town 3:00pm Park Benfield v Tow Law Town 7:30pm Smith’s Park
Division 1 17/09/22 Northallerton
Division 1 04/10/22 Sunderland
Tow Law Town v Bedlington Terriers 3:00pm Vase
Division 1 08/10/22 Ashington
Ironworks
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Upcoming Fixtures Date Match Time/Result Ground Competition 30/07/22 Tow Law Town v Whickham 0-3 Ironworks Road Division 1 02/08/22 Tow Law Town v Redcar Athletic 5-4 Ironworks Road Division 1 06/08/22 Tadcaster Albion v Tow Law Town 1-1 FA Cup PreliminaryExtraRound 09/08/22 Tow Law Town v Tadcaster Albion 2-0 Ironworks Road FA Cup RoundPreliminaryExtraReplay 13/08/22 Newton Aycliffe v Tow Law Town 6-1 Newton Aycliffe Sports Club Division 1 16/08/22 Pickering Town v Tow Law Town 2-1 Mill Lane Division 1 20/08/22 Tow Law Town v Ashington 3:00pm Ironworks Road FA PreliminaryCupRound 24/08/22 Guisborough Town v Tow Law Town 7:45pm King George V Ground Division 1 27/08/22
QualifyingRoundFirst 30/08/22
Sam
Division 1 10/09/22
Ironworks Road FA
Ironworks
Tow Law Town v West Allotment Celtic 3:00pm Road RCA v Tow Law Town 7:30pm LGV Park AFC v Tow Law Town 3:00pm Lane Law Town v Whitley Bay 3:00pm Road City v Tow Law Tow 3:00pm Law Town “The Lawyers”
Tow Law Town v Bishop Auckland 3:00pm Road Town v Tow Law Town 7:30pm Sir Tom MillfieldCowie Town v Tow Law Town 3:00pm StadiumCalvert
AFC
Ironworks Road Division 1 03/09/22 Thornaby
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11/03/23
07/01/23
12/11/22
Whitley Bay v Tow Law Town 3:00pm Hillheads Park Division 1 08/04/23
03/12/22
21/01/23
Tow Law Town v Penrith 3:00pm Welfare Park Division 1 22/04/23 Seaham Red Star v Tow Law Town 3:00pm Independent Utility Advise Arena Division 1
Tow Law Town v Northallerton Town 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1
04/02/23
18/03/23
Tow Law Town v Crook Town 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1 26/11/22
Tow Law Town v Ashington AFC 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1
19/11/22
Tow Law Town v Seaham Red Star 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1 Redcar Athletic v Tow Law Town 3:00pm Green Lane Division 1
25/03/23
15/04/23
West Auckland Town v Tow Law Town 3:00pm Wanted Stadium Division 1 Tow Law Town v Newcastle Benfield 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1 14/01/23 Whickham v Tow Law Town 3:00pm GlebeGroundSports Division 1
29/10/22
11/02/23
West Allotment Celtic v Tow Law Town 3:00pm EastSportsPalmersvillePavilion Division 1
Tow Law Town v Heaton Stannington 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1
10/12/22
Tow Law Town v Thornaby 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1 Bishop Auckland v Tow Law Town 3:00pm Heritage Park Division 1 25/02/23
18/02/23
Tow Law Town v Carlisle City 3:00pm WelfareCommunityHordenPark Division 1
Tow Law Town v Pickering Town 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1
Date Match Time/Result Ground Competition Penrith v Tow Law Town 3:00pm TheStadiumFrenchfield Division 1 05/11/22
Tow Law Town v Sunderland RCA 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1 28/01/23 Tow Law Town v Newton Aycliffe 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1 Heaton Stannington v Tow Law Town 3:00pm Grounsell Park Division 1
Tow Law Town v Guisborough Town 3:00pm Ironworks Road Division 1
17/12/22
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Jeff Morris Plant Hire, The Ambulance Station, Tel:DL15CountyCrook,Roddymoor,Durham,07887800972 Website:Tel:TowBrickflats Tow Law Office: 01388 730095 info @vickersandbarrass.co.uk Open Monday Friday: 9am to 5pm Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”24
New larger studio opening in August. Making Memories Since 2016 Call the studio on 01388 434 403 or visit www.rcphoto.co.uk for up-to-date pricing. 12 Hope Street, Crook, County Durham, DL15 9HS
Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”26
30% OFF ALL CANVASES: WHEN USING YOUR OWN PHOTO. Design & Print Packages for Business @Ritchie Coatsworth Photography 12 Hope Street, Crook Studio: 01388 434 403 • Email: studio@rcphoto.co.uk Event Package £199 10 x A3 Posters, 20 x A4 Posters, 2 x A1 Poster and 5000 x A5 Flyers. New Business Package £249 500 x Business Cards, 5000 x A5 Flyers, Logo design or a vector redraw and one month advertising in Out & About Magazine. Vehicle Signage Small Van £125 • Transit Van £180 Large Iveco Type Van £220 Shop Header & Window Signage Prices start from £80 Mug Printing £8 • T-Shirt Printing from £6.50 • Embroidery from £5 We can also print large format Canvases, Photo Slates, Posters & Popup Banners. Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers” 27
Mention Ashington to any football follower and the chances are they will have heard of the birthplace of World Cup winning brothers Bobby and Jackie Charlton. Jackie Milburn, a legend at Newcastle United also played for the town’s team, known unsurprisingly as the Colliers. Ashington AFC was formed in 1883 making it one of the oldest Clubs in Northumberland. Despite its minor status it entered the FA Cup as early as 1887. After joining the Northern Alliance in 1892, the club soon switched to the East Northumberland League where it remained until 1902 when it returned to the Northern Alliance. The Colliers played in this league until 1914, winning the League Title in 1913/14, as well as the Northumberland Challenge Bowl in 1913. They switched to the North Eastern League in 1914/15, finishing the season in ninth place. The outbreak of World War One brought an end to the League. With the Great War over, Ashington returned to the North Eastern League. After finishing seventh in 1921, the Colliers were elected to join the Football League Third Division North with fellow North Eastern League sides Darlington, Durham City and Hartlepools United. In 1921 Portland Park was upgraded from a typical Non-League venue to a stadium designed for 20,000. It had a re-laid pitch, new pavilion, tearoom and large press box added, as well as new signing Knowles from Manchester United. Thompson was also signed from Leeds and Foster was brought in from Sunderland. Ashington’s players were now ready for their professional debuts. An opening day crowd of 10,000 saw Dickinson fire in the only goal of the game, as Ashington defeated Grimsby Town 1-0 at home. By the end of the season the Colliers finished in a respectable 10th place. After finishing second bottom the season after, Ashington were successfully re-elected and finished the 1923/24 season in a superb eighth position, hosting Aston Villa at home in the FA Cup with a crowd of 11,837 packed into Portland Park, to see the Colliers lose 5-1. The Colliers remained amongst the Country’s elite until the 1928/29 season when a disastrous campaign saw the Colliers finish bottom and become one of the first clubs to miss out on re-election. A struggling team and the miner’s strike, hit the Colliers hard as crowds dropped dramatically to under 1,000 for the final few home games in the Football League. After losing League status, the Colliers returned to the North Eastern League and reached the FA Cup first round again, going down 3-0 to former Football League opponents Rotherham. With the War ended, Ashington returned to the North Eastern
Ashington AFC History Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”28
Unfortunately a difficult few seasons followed both on and off the pitch. A few close scrapes with relegation saw the club frequently changing managers and with increasing uncertainty surrounding the clubs Portland Park ground, Ashington FC made the worst start to a season in the clubs history in 2007/8 which saw only one point gained from the first ten matches. In came manager Andy Gowens, a former Ashington player, who worked wonders in keeping the Colliers in the Northern League First Division. On Friday 15th February 2008 Ashington played their final game at Portland Park against Seaham Red Star. A bumper crowd of 1,954 - the biggest attendance at a Northern League game in over 25 years - saw Seaham spoil the party with a 3-2 win. In the summer of 2008 a new executive board took control of the club led by National Union of Mineworkers President Ian Lavery. In early August 2008 the new ground
League and again reached the FA Cup First Round in 1950, with Rochdale making the trip to Portland Park. A club record attendance of 13,199 saw Ashington narrowly lose 2-1. When the North Eastern League folded Ashington joined the Midland League for the 1958/59 season. Ashington were runners-up to Peterborough United in their first season and were third in their second season. Despite the success the amount of travelling became a big problem and Ashington joined the North Regional League. The club then joined the Northern Premier League for the 1968/69 season facing the likes of Macclesfield Town, Wigan Athletic, Boston United, Altrincham and Northwich Victoria but financial problems meant the Colliers couldn’t afford to play at that level for more than the one season and in 1970 Ashington FC joined the Northern League.
Woodhorn Lane was opened and on Saturday 30th August 2008, Ashington played their first game at the new ground defeating UniBond League side Ossett Albion 2-1 in
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Ashington’s League form was hardly superb, but the Colliers did reach the FA Amateur Cup Semi-Final in 1974, before losing to eventual winners Bishops Stortford in a replay at Brentford. After finishing third in 1979, Ashington were relegated to the Northern League Second Division in 1984/85. The worst period in the Club’s history followed as Ashington struggled, the club hit rock bottom in 1994 when they were unable to raise a team against Crook Town resulting in the whole committee resigning. A public meeting saw a new committee formed and to celebrate, a group of supporters launched the highly acclaimed fanzine ‘The Pit Pony Express’. Success soon switched to the team as the Colliers won their first trophy in 19 years, defeating Evenwood Town 1-0 in the 1999 Craven Cup Final and winning the Second Division Championship in 2000/2001. Relegation followed, but Ashington fans were soon celebrating again after winning the Craven Cup in 2003 with another victory over Evenwood under new manager Tony Harrison. 2003/4 saw Ashington have one of its most successful seasons in the past 25 years, an FA Cup run saw Ashington reach the Third Qualifying Round, another Craven Cup final appearance, as well as winning the Second Division Championship after a run of 18 straight wins in 2004. After the shock resignation of Tony Harrison in December 2004, ex-Shildon manager Ray Gowan was appointed manager taking Ashington away from the relegation scrap and into a top half finish by the end of the season as well as two cup semi-finals.
the FA Cup with a crowd of 341. Striker Gareth Bainbridge, scorer in the last match at Portland Park against Seaham Red Star had the honour of being the first goalscorer at Woodhorn Lane.
After a couple of disappointing seasons on the pitch, Harmison and his management team left their posts in October 2017. Stepping up to fill the void was Steve Bowey, along with his assistant Gareth McAlindon. Few people have played more games in the Northern League than Bowey, who will bring that wealth of experience to bear as he tasks himself with, in his own words ‘reviving the sleeping giant’ and make the Colliers a force to be reckoned with once again.
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Over recent seasons, The Colliers, under Gary Middleton’s stewardship the club made great strides forward on the pitch, to become a side challenging for a top 6 place each year, and regularly making it to the later stages of the FA Vase. In fact the 2011-12 saw one of Ashington’s most successful seasons in recent years. Finishing 5th, our highest league placing for many years was coupled with two successful runs in the National Competitions. In the FA Cup the Colliers made it to the fourth qualifying round before losing away to Grimsby. And in the FA Vase, Ashington had their longest run ever, making it through to the last 16. The work paid off in May 2013 when the Colliers won the Senior Cup at St James Park. The 3-0 victory brought home the Senior Cup for the first time since 1980, and was Ashington’s first trophy since they won the Craven Cup in 2003 and the Second Division Championship in 2004. Unfortunately, the club was unable to build on this success and Middler resigned in January 2015. His replacement made headline news around the world. Ashes winning cricketer, and former Colliers defender Stephen Harmison stepped up to become the new Colliers manager, bringing former manager Ian Skinner along with him as head coach, and appointing the legendary former Collier captain Lee Anderson as his number 2. 2015-16 was a landmark year for the club. The award winning Akzonobel Stand opened in November, with Newcastle United doing the honours on the opening night. One of the finest in the league, the new facility makes Woodhorn Lane one of the best NonLeague grounds in the North-East and provides facilities unrivalled in the league.
A number of ex-Ashington players have gone on to make a name for themselves, not only nationally but internationally. Patrick O’Connell, an Irish international centre-half signed from Dumbarton during Ashington’s Football League days went on to manage Real Betis, Sevilla and FC Barcelona! More recently, in 1981 Tony Lowery was sold to West Bromwich Albion. Another player Dave Walton joined Sheffield United before joining Crewe, Shrewsbury and Derby County. An England International also emerged from the clubs ranks – at cricket. Former Colliers manager Steve Harmison, ranked as the World’s best fast bowler after demolishing the West Indies as he took 7 wickets for only 12 runs at Sabina Park, played central defence for Ashington until 1996 before giving up to concentrate on cricket.
Andrew Cartwright: Right Back, former professional footballer with Sunderland AFC, having also represented Blyth Spartans, before moving to play in Australian. On his return he played last season (21-22) with North Shields helping them to win the title. An attack minded full back who likes to get forward and support attacks. Out of possession Andy is a good organiser and strong defensively.
Danny Anderson: Despite his age, Danny has been around the first team squad for a couple of seasons now. Danny is a central midfielder who offers a wide range of passing across varying distances. Danny is comfortable on the ball and looks to help the side play.
Dean Briggs: Since coming to the club he has offered a consistent level of performance. Dean is dangerous when running with the ball at opponents and has a real eye for goal. Dean takes up good positions and can both link the play and run with the ball.
Tom Bramley: A Centre Back who has been with the club for a couple of seasons. Tom is a quick and agile defender who always gives his all for the team. Tom is strong in the air and looks to carry the ball out from the back where possible.
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Max Emmerson: Centre Midfielder who is strong in the tackle and screens and slides well. Max demonstrates good ability in possession to protect the ball and look to build attacks. Ma x has been a consistent performer for the club over the past couple of seasons.
Robert Dale: Forward, who holds a club record number of appearances for Blyth Spartans. A versatile player who can operate in several positions both in an advanced position as well as defensively. Robbie’s leadership and experience will be of great benefit to the squad.
Karl Dryden: A Goalkeeper who needs no introduction to fans of the club having played under Gary Middleton. Karl then went on to have four highly successful years at Morpeth Town where he won the FA Vase, before moving to Dunston UTS where he again had an impressive two-year spell lifting the Northern League First Division title and gaining promotion.
Yannick Aziakonou: A former product of the Newcastle United academy, Yannick is a player who offers versatility with the ability to play as a holding midfield player, Centre Back or Left Fullback. Yannick is strong and powerful and another player who is comfortable on the ball and likes to play.
Jamie Hanson: Another player who is a product of our junior section, before representing Monkseaton Football Academy and most recently returning from a scholarship in America. Jamie is a forward player with great movement and an eye for goal. Jamie is a particularly good finisher in and around the penalty area.
Damen Mullen: Midfielder who had a successful loan spell at the club during season 21-22. Damen has played for the club previously and offers a calmness in possession, using the ball well, looking to retain and build possession. Damen has a good range of passing and passes the ball with real quality. Previous clubs include Newcastle Benfield, Blyth Spartans, Morpeth Town and Hebburn Town.
Ben Harmison: Centre Forward who despite his height is a particularly good footballer and can both link and combine with others whilst creating and scoring goals for himself. Ben is dominant in the air and offers a physical presence at both ends of the pitch.
Karl Ross: Midfielder who covers lots of ground during a game, being an influence both in and out of possession. Comfortable on the ball with a varied passing range, he offers good positional play and reads the game well with timely interceptions as well as being strong in the tackle.
Kyle Hayes: Goalkeeper who has played for the club previously, whilst also representing Morpeth, Town, North Shields, Shildon, Spennymoor, West Allotment Celtic, Whitley Bay and Consett. A good shot stopper, who has good distribution and will provide excellent competition within the goalkeeping department.
Daniel Maguire: Forward signed from Blyth Spartans. Dan has represented England at C level, a quick and busy forward, who is capable of both linking play and running in behind opposition defence. Dan has a real eye for goal and will offer a good attacking threat for the squad.
Adam Johnson: Joined the club this season (21/22) from Blyth Town. An Ashington born player, who works tirelessly as a forward both in and out of possession. Adams direct running and pace creates chances for both himself and other players.
Jordan Lashley: Signed from Bedlington Terriers, Jordan is a pacey forward who can go past defenders due to his quick feet and direct running. Jordan is a good finisher and will be a very useful addition to the squad, creating chances for himself and others.
Darren Lough: Defender who is returning to the club. Darren is comfortable at both full-back and central defence, a strong defender with good positional play, as well a very good understanding of the game. He is comfortable on the ball and can built play from the back. Previous clubs include South Shields and Hebburn Town.
Paul Robinson: A player with vast Northern League experience who can play in a number of positions. Paul is extremely comfortable on the ball and can use his technical ability to beat a player and score. He offers a good range of passing and is a valued member of the squad.
Thomas Kalthoeber: Pacey fullback who is competitive and difficult to get past. Thomas is very good defending 1v1 and offers good energy to support attacks from wide areas, another player who has offered a good level of consistency since joining the club.
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Lee Mason: Forward who is comfortable playing across the front line with very good technical ability. Lee is a strong runner with the ball and creates chances for himself and others. Previous clubs include Whitby Town, Whitley Bay, Blyth Spartans, North Shields, South Shields and Dunston UTS.
Jordan Summerly: A defender whose previous clubs include Blyth Spartans and North Shields where he played over 150 games, has become the club’s latest recruit.
Ben Sampson: A player who can operate at Right Back or Central Midfield. Ben has been at the club for a few seasons now and has made himself a first team regular with his consistent performances. Ben is good in possession and supports the attack well from a full back position, whilst demonstrating good positional play out of possession.
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Jordan is a left full back but is also comfortable playing higher up the pitch and has a good record of assisting goals.
Luke Salmon: A versatile player who has great power and speed. Strong in the air as well as running with the ball at his feet, Luke can be a real threat when running at opponents. Luke energy to recover and defend is important as well as his ability to be competitive and strong in a tackle.
Craig Spooner: Despite his age, Craig is an experienced player at this level having played for North Shields, Whitley Bay, and West Auckland. Craig has a good understanding of the game following his time at Newcastle United as a youth player. A versatile player who has great energy and contributes with his share of goals.
Lewis Suddick: Joined us this season from Bishop Auckland, having played for teams such as Newcastle United, Whitby Town, Whitley Bay and Hebburn to name a few. Technically very good, Lewis can play in several advanced positions. Lewis can beat an opponent 1v1 or receive in good spaces between the lines, whilst having a good range of passing and an eye for goal.
TOW LAW TOWN AFC V ASHINGTON AFC Saturday 20th August 2022 • 3.00pm KO FA Cup Preliminary Round Tom Orton Dan LiamRyanDomHarveyJoynesMcKinnonLewisMilnerChrisRenshawKurtSeymourBarrieSmithLukeBaileyGoldsboroughBrandonMallaburnJoelPearsonHarveySmithRobWhiteAdreiArdeleanEthanBewleyAaronHardyNicMarleyThomasMcAloonDavidParkerAaronWilloughby Manager: Michael Vasey Coach: Warren Pearson GK Coach: Mark Spedding Physio: Rachel Davison Tow Law Town AFC Squad 2022/23 Danny Anderson Yannick AndrewThomasAziakonouBramleyDeanBriggsCartwrightRobertDaleKarlDrydenMaxEmmersonJamieHansonBenHarmisonKyleHayesAdamJohnsonThomasKalthoeberJordanLashleyDarrenLoughDanielMaguireLeeMasonDamenMullenPaulRobinsonKarlRossLukeSalmonBenjaminSampsonCraigSpoonerLewisSuddickJordanSummerly Ashington AFC Squad 2022/23 Tow Law Town AFC “The Lawyers”34
