allotment
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14
marc allen the centremid on his breakthrough into the first team
Club Sponsor
THOMAS POTTER
alnwick town NORTHUMBERLAND FA SENIOR CUP WEDNESDAY 9th OCTOBER 2013
THOMAS POTTER Stockist and distributor of fastenings, nuts, bolts, screws, flanges, manufacturing hose fittings and special plate flanges.
Unit 3J, Admiral Business Park, Nelson Way, Cramlington, NE23 1WG
Tel: 01670 591 100
www.thomaspotter.com MAIN SPONSORS OF WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
18
welcome 16
Club Officials
14
President Chairman Vice-Chairman Secretary Treasurer Commercial
12
contents
Committee
the history
4
the squad
6
the backroom staff
9
Press Officer Photographer
Alex Smailes Roland Mather Jimmy Wilson Ted Ilderton John Alexander Jonny Thompson David Dodds Paul Mason Above, plus Al Liddle,Michael Wilson, Les Scott, Kath Orr, Harry Bell, Stephen Allott, Richie Marks Craig Dobson Graeme Jackson
the last match
10
the last meeting
12
the preview
14
the visitors
16
the feature
18
on this day
20
the letter draw
22
Selected Club Honours
the onion bag
23
the player statistics
24
fixtures, results, table
25
rottweiler’s notes
26
the squads
28
1987, 1991, 1992, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004 Northern League D2 champions 2005 NFA Amateur Cup winners 1957, 1975 NFA Benevolent Bowl winners 1993 Craven Cup winners 2005 Ernest Armstrong Mem. Cup winners 2013
Backroom Staff Manager Assistant Manager First Team Coach Physio
Paul Stoneman Wilf Kielty Paul Hogg Charlotte Ferguson
Northern Alliance champions
eighty-five Stephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour
from creation to contenders
...and the decade of decline
West Allotment Celtic were formed in 1928, the culmination of a merger between West Allotment Primitive Methodists and West Allotment Juniors. After moving to the newly-created Tynemouth & District League in 1935, the club began to grow in stature. The club had to face Whitley Bay & Monkseaton Reserves in a play-off for the title, but unfortunately, the decider went the way of the seasiders. Remarkably, Allotment also finished in a play-off position in the following two seasons – and, in both cases, had to settle for a runner-up spot.
The sixties started promisingly enough, as Allotment looked to build on their previous successes. The club finished as runners-up in the Northern Amateur League in 1960, and were consecutive Minor Cup finalists in 1960 and 1961.
changing leagues, sheds and times In 1938, the club joined the Second Division of the Northern Amateur League. Now playing at the aptly-named Farm Ground, fans helped to dismantle a cowshed in Heaton and move it, piece by piece, to West Allotment, where it was reassembled at the ground. The shed was not for spectators – it served as the players’ changing facilities! The club earned instant promotion (after a play-off, such is club tradition), but World War II put a stop to any further progress.
a succession of successes... The club recommenced operations in 1946/47 and enjoyed an unprecedented run of success from the mid-fifties onwards. Allotment won the championship for four consecutive seasons between 1956 and 1960, along with the NFA Amateur Cup in 1957 and the NFA Minor Cup in 1958.
4
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
However, whilst Celtic remained loyal to the Northern Amateur League, the bulk of the team moved on, and Allotment entered a period of decline as a result. The club stagnated badly during the sixties in an uncompetitive league, and closure become a distinctly worrying possibility. The threat of dissolution was eventually staved off by the introduction of new blood into the club towards the end of the decade, as Allotment finally began to build towards a more positive future on and off the pitch. Celtic also moved to Backworth Welfare in 1968, consigning the ponds and mud of the Farm Ground to memory.
champions at long last A rejuvenated West Allotment won the NFA Amateur Cup again in 1975, largely thanks to the goalscoring exploits of Benny Williams,
years in the making of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations... who averaged almost one goal a game in his 400 appearances for the club. Williams was ably supported by a talented and hungry squad, and, with strength in depth, Allotment were always considered title contenders. However, the championship remained tantalisingly out of reach until yet another play-off tie in 1982. Allotment finally won the coveted title, defeating Annitsford Welfare by the odd goal in seven.
Alliance titles, never finishing lower than sixth. Terry Mitchell and Brian Latty built upon Ken Scott and Billy Hays’ consecutive Alliance league titles, leading Allotment into the Northern League.
the modern day
When Celtic retained the title with relative ease the following season, the decision was taken to move up a tier for the first time since 1938.
Having acted as tenants at Hillheads in Whitley Bay since 1995, the club set out to find a new home, and found it in Benton. In 2001, the club moved to Whitley Park, also known as the Blue Flames Sports Ground. The ground is well-known as one of the best kept pitches in the Northern League, and also serves as the headquarters of the Northumberland FA.
the colossus of the alliance In 1983, Allotment made its debut in both the Northern Alliance and the FA Vase. The first honour of the period arrived just one season later, as Allotment dispatched Ponteland United in the Alliance Challenge Cup Final. This success was followed up two seasons later by the first of Celtic’s eight Alliance titles. In 1987, West Allotment emerged victorious from two nail-biting play-off games against Gosforth St. Nicholas, ushering in a wave of success not enjoyed at the club since the fifties. Throughout this period, Celtic won seven further Northern
The club earned promotion from Division Two as champions, losing just twice throughout the entire 2004/05 season. After six seasons of holding their own against the Northern League’s top tier, Allotment slipped back down a league. The current crop have gone some way to restoring success at Allotment, winning the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup last May, and will be aiming for those promotion places this season. the history
5
the squad
Chris Bannon GK Age: 26 Formerly of Washington and Hebburn Town, popular and reliable ‘keeper Chris returns to Allotment for a second stint between the sticks, and will jostle with Ryan Beal for the number one jersey.
Glenn Ford CB Age: 29 Glenn rejoined the club during the 2012/13 season, making a handful of solid appearances. Having committed for this coming season, fans can expect to see much more of Glenn and his defensive abilities.
6
Ryan Beal GK Age: 25 An excellent shot stopper, Ryan featured extensively in last season’s cup-winning campaign, and will look to consolidate his place with similarly strong performances this season.
GK Chris Bannon GK Ryan Beal GK Bob Rodgerson
CB Simon Wilthew CB Glenn Ford CB Stephen Little CB Paul Stoneman RB John Pendlebury
Bob Rodgerson Stephen Little GK Age: 31 CB Age: 26 A Percy Main Amateurs The ex-Annfield Plain regular, Bob performed and Killingworth stopper admirably when filling shone at the back for in during a goalkeeping Allotment last season, crisis towards the back putting in a series of end of last season, and superlative defensive has registered once again showings, earning the to be our third choice Player’s Player of the Year ‘keeper. Award in the process.
Chris Douglas John Pendlebury Simon Wilthew RB Age: 29 RB Age: 27 CB Age: 25 Simon featured 15 times A first-team regular since The ultimate utility player, Chris can be employed signing for Allotment at the back for Allotment anywhere down either from Ryton in 2010, last season. Strong at flank to devastating John’s relentless work centre-half and adept at effect. The former North ethic and tenacious left-back, the Monkseaton Shields man’s pace and tackling bring stability defender will be looking perception underpins his to the back four. The to build on his impressive undoubted ability, be it full-back often serves as debut in the Northern as a full-back or a wide captain in the absence of League. midfielder. Ian Dunn.
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
RB Chris Douglas LB Marc Dummett CM Michael Latimer CM Roy Gordon CM Ian Dunn
CM Marc Allen CM David Henderson CM Michael Bell CM Sean Reid RM Kallum McGlen
RM Tony Lancaster LM Dean Lee ST David Dormand ST Lawrence McKenna ST Liam Hudson
Marc Dummett LB Age: 26 The former Ponteland United and Dunston fullback has proven to be an asset to the club in both defence and attack. His crossing ability in both regular play and from set-pieces is second to none.
Roy Gordon CM Age: 31 Roy rejoins Celtic for a second spell, having last played for the club during the 2011/12 season. Able to play in a number of positions, the experienced utility man has also turned out for North Shields, Consett and Annfield Plain.
David Henderson Michael Latimer CM Age: 28 CM Age: 26 David Henderson Seasoned midfielder rejoined the club last Michael returns to season, and the former Allotment, having spent North Shields schemer time at Bedlington provides another option Terriers, Newcastle going forward through Benfield and Washington. the middle. Henders A tough tackler and a is arguably one of the highly versatile member of the squad, capable of most skilful players in the squad. playing at centre-half.
Michael Bell CM Age: 22 Brimming with potential, “Belly” won the Under-19 National Schools Cup with Northumberland and has also represented Ryton. Bell is unbeatable in the air, and can also operate on the wing and as a supporting striker.
ST Jed Findlay ST Ryan Anderson
Marc Allen Ian Dunn Sean Reid CM Age: 26 CM Age: 31 CM Age: 21 Marc previously turned Long-serving, tough Rangy, pacy and out for Whitley Bay tackling midfielder Dunn technically gifted, Sean Reserves, but has has grafted tirelessly can play as a roaming for three years at West become a mainstay in the central midfielder, a Celtic squad. His astute Allotment, earning the dangerous centrepassing, ball retention captain’s armband in the forward, or even an adept process. “Dunny” remains skills and battling tenacity centre-back. The former are evident whenever he Ryton forward is one of one of Celtic’s key men is called upon in central deep in the heart of Celtic’s most promising midfield. midfield. attacking outlets.
the squad
7
the squad
Kallum McGlen RM Age: 21 A former Montagu & North Fenham favourite, Kallum features on the right hand side of midfield, where his energy and technique often causes problems for opposing full-backs.
Liam Hudson ST Age: 25
Tony Lancaster RM Age: 28
Dean Lee LM Age: 30
David Dormand ST Age: 25
Signed from Wark in March 2011. Tony struggled with injuries last term, but will hope to be back to his pacy, dangerous best this season. Tony can also operate as a wholly competent right-back.
A winger with the scoring nous of a striker, the former North Shields man has all of the tools required to strike fear into the hearts of defenders. One of Celtic’s most prolific threats going forward.
David’s prolific record precedes him, and the former Morpeth forward has already replicated his goalscoring form since joining Celtic, topping the charts with 30 goals. A clinical poacher and a hard worker up front.
Lawrence McKenna ST Age: 25
Jed Findlay ST Age: 24
Ryan Anderson ST Age: 18
Another former Ryton Lawrence is wellforward, army soldier travelled, having topped Liam is capable of the scoring charts for pressuring his opposite Whickham, before going numbers into submission on to play for Bedlington with his strength and high Terriers and Newcastle work rate. “Hud” can Benfield. Is known to be also be deployed on the a deadly finisher in the right wing. division.
8
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
A promising young Signed from Cramlington striker, Ryan was Town last February, Jed snapped up in trials for is a promising forward with plenty of attacking Allotment’s ‘A’ team, and potential. Having made a has already impressed for both the development handful of appearances side and the first team’s last season, the striker respective pre-seasons. will be hoping to get more game time this campaign.
the squad
the backroom staff
Paul Stoneman Player/Manager
Wilf Kielty Assistant Manager
Paul Hogg First Team Coach
Charlotte Ferguson Physiotherapist
The stalwart centre-half has played for Blackpool, Colchester United and Halifax Town. Despite turning 40 last year, ‘Stona’ was ever-present last season, remaining unbeatable in the air and impervious in the tackle.
Right-hand man Wilf has been around the local non-league scene for many years, both as a player and in a management role, giving notable service to North Shields as manager for several seasons.
The UEFA-licensed coach is held in very high regard at North Shields, having played, coached and managed there for over a decade. Paul has also managed Annfield Plain, and is working with the Newcastle United Foundation.
Charlotte is in her final year of her Physiotherapy studies at Northumbria University, and is currently on her final placement at the RVI. She is also a qualified sports masseur.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS LIMITED Advice - Design - Manufacture - Installation - Commission - Service - Repair
Specialists in surface and waste water management
Proud sponsors of West Allotment player-manager
Paul Stoneman the backroom staff
9
the last match
5TH OCTOBER 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO FOCUS SCAFFOLDING SPORTS COMPLEX
Whitehaven 3 West Allotment Celtic 1
W
EST Allotment Celtic returned from their 220-mile round trip to Whitehaven emptyhanded, going down 3-1 to their Cumbrian hosts on Saturday afternoon. The hosts were the first to fire warning shots across the bow, with Darren Donald being denied only by deputising centre-half Sean Reid, before Matty Tymon forced the first save of the day from Ryan Beal. Although Allotment looked less than assured in the opening stages, they took the lead after fifteen minutes, via their first notable attack of the afternoon. Stephen Little headed a deep free-kick back across goal towards the waiting Lawrence McKenna, who shrugged off
10
the attentions of his marker to tuck home from close range. The striker should have doubled his tally, and with it, Allotment’s advantage, but he headed Chris Douglas’ deep set-piece over the bar with the goal at his mercy. Celtic would go on to rue their missed opportunity, as Whitehaven came storming back into the game. Full-back Jack Hunter whipped in a dangerous cross from the left, and Tymon stooped between two defenders to guide the ball into the far corner with his head. The shellshocked visitors should have been behind within minutes, as an unmarked Donald powered over the
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
crossbar from just three yards out, but the hosts did not have to wait long for their pressure to pay off. Midfielder Kevin Holliday rounded off a splendid team move with a neat finish, turning the game in ‘Haven’s favour. A disjoined Allotment were down at the interval by just the one goal, but any hope of a second-half resurgence seemed to be crushed by a third goal shortly after the restart. The hosts broke forward at pace, with the unmarked Tymon looking certain to latch onto a square ball and score again, but Marc Allen did well to get there first - only to see his attempted interception fly into the back of the net. The own goal prompted
a tactical reshuffle, with Dormand joining a three-man attack, and the move belatedly started to pay off. Hudson was denied by Stuart Petitt, before the ‘keeper somehow kept out Dormand’s close-range header. McKenna fired a dangerous Hudson cross just wide of goal, whilst at the other end, Whitehaven almost sealed the win through Donald, who was unfortunate to see his rising strike crash off the underside of the bar. The hosts were fortunate to enter the final period with all eleven men on the pitch, as the previouslybooked Tymon’s persistent fouls went unpunished by the officials.
...in pictures
Allotment’s best chance to salvage something from the game came with just ten minutes left on the clock, and came by way of a refereeing decision. Reid, in his customary advanced role, was held back by the centre-half in the box, affording the away side the opportunity to get back into the tie from twelve yards out. Reid’s penalty was well-struck, but Petitt made a superb diving save to his left to deny Celtic any hope of a comeback. Dormand dragged a shot wide when through one-on-one with Petitt, and McKenna saw a hopeful effort comfortably saved, but the game had already escaped the visitors’ clutches, who ultimately paid the price for a poor first half and a profligate second. the last match
11
the last meeting
10TH AUGUST 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ST JAMES’ PARK
Alnwick Town 0 West Allotment Celtic 4
W
EST Allotment Celtic enjoyed the perfect start to their Northern League campaign, comfortably defeating Alnwick Town 4-0 at St. James’ Park. However, the visitors could have found themselves behind from within seconds of the season’s kick-off. A misjudged header from Glenn Ford gifted James Jackson an early oneon-one opportunity, only for the centre-forward to skew his effort horribly wide. Eager to make the most of the near miss, Celtic took the initiative, with Sean Reid heading over from a corner and a teasing Dean Lee delivery calling Town ‘keeper Daniel Mullen into action.
12
Allotment continued to create chances, with Dormand firing a volley just over and Lee testing Mullen once again, and the visitors expectedly broke the deadlock after 25 minutes. Paul Stoneman headed a deep ball from Marc Dummett beyond the Alnwick back four towards the waiting Reid, who steered the ball into the bottom corner. The hosts struggled to find their feet in the match, and often failed to support the solitary figure of Jackson in attack. At the other end, Celtic were still the livelier side. Reid curled a free-kick wide of the far post, Hudson scooped an effort onto the roof of the net and Bell failed to hit the target, ensuring that the scoreline remained deceptively close going into half-time.
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
After the interval, it was one-way traffic in the visitors’ favour. Lee was in the thick it again, firing over from the edge of the area following a corner, before being presented with another chance by relentless counterpart Hudson. The latter latched onto a fine ball from Reid, and found Lee arriving at pace at the back post, but the winger could not keep his effort down. Allotment’s high pressure kept Alnwick on the back foot – and almost yielded a second goal, as some fastidious work from Bell almost granted him a one-on-one opportunity, but his effort, and the follow-up from Dormand, were frantically blocked by the covering defenders.
The stronger side belatedly doubled their lead from a routine set-piece. Chris Douglas’ whipped corner found Stoneman, who did well to turn the ball into the net whilst under pressure from Kevin Elliott.
...in pictures
The player-manager’s goal afforded Celtic enough breathing space to put on a second striker, with McKenna coming on for captain Dunn – and the debutant made the desired impact within minutes of his arrival. A catastrophic mix-up between centre-half and goalkeeper allowed the striker to race onto a loose ball and tap it into the empty net. Tensions had become frayed at St. James’ Park after a legitimate aerial challenge from Bell bloodied Makin’s nose, whilst Alnwick midfielder Bryan Murray was extremely fortunate to escape so much as a booking after a late studs-up challenge on the impressive Douglas. The heated atmosphere did not faze Allotment, who saw a fine McKenna strike contentiously ruled out for handball, before another substitute wrapped up the victory. McKenna and Dormand’s attempts to convert McGlen’s square cross were hampered, but the ball broke to Marc Allen, who stroked it home with aplomb – putting Allotment top of the Division Two table in the process. the last meeting
13
the pre-match preview
form: DWLWL
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
H
AVING suffered another knockback in the league, West Allotment Celtic will be eager to get back to winning ways, starting with Alnwick Town in the NFA Senior Cup this evening. Celtic had looked impressive when they travelled down the A1, putting Darlington R.A. to the sword with four unanswered goals, but could not replicate the feat when they took to the A69, and were second-best as Whitehaven secured a 3-1 victory.
ALNWICK TOWN form: lllll
A
14
FTER a positive start to the 2013/14 campaign, Alnwick Town will be desperate to arrest their recent downturn in form with a good performance in tonight’s cup tie. Since their 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Allotment on the opening day, Town kicked on in positive fashion, picking up two hard-fought 2-1 wins on Tyneside, away at Ryton and Washington respectively. The Northumberland outfit lost just one of their next five days - to current highflyers Heaton Stannington
Celtic did improve in the latter stages when Sean Reid, deputising at centrehalf in place of the suspended Paul Stoneman, was pushed back into midfield as part of a more attacking system. The versatile 21-year-old could once again feature at the back, or John Pendlebury could come inside to partner Stephen Little. These potential reshuffles may be in jeopardy as a result of Marc Dummett’s recent injury. And, with Glenn Ford expected to be - with a narrow victory at home to Northallerton and a convincing 4-1 victory at Brandon proving to be the highlights. After that positive start to September, Town went without a single point or triumph for the rest of the month, being turned over by the likes of Norton & Stockton and Seaham Red Star. The margin of defeat in the following two games were markedly closer 3-2 against Tow Law and 3-1 at Chester-le-Street respectively - but the latter still went down as Alnwick’s fifth straight defeat in all
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
sidelined once more, Simon Wilthew has emerged as a potential replacement in both positions. Michael Bell serves the second game of a three-match suspension, meaning that Alex Nisbet and Connor Graham, recent signings from Longbenton, could feature. Both Tony Lancaster and Michael Latimer remain out. Taking up his place in the dugout, Stoneman could opt to give a number of fringe players a chance to impress, as Allotment seek a much improved performance. league and cup matches. Town will have to make do without exciting forward Dale Kennedy, who has been ruled out for the season through injury, with new signings Michael Robinson and James Jackson, versatile attacker Kieran Hogg and reserve graduate Jon Colley tasked with filling the void. Playmaker Tony Brown has already chipped in with goals from midfield this season, and will undoubtedly serve as a key player should he preserve his place in Town’s starting line-up.
Reliable left-back Marc Dummett incurred a hamstring injury during Allotment’s 4-1 defeat at Penrith, but made an appearance from the bench at Whitehaven - lasting just ten minutes before his enforced withdrawal. Chris Douglas may take his place once more, but Marc’s likely absence will stretch a back four that is already missing its stalwart player-manager.
statattack 126
The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park
48
No. of points separating the two teams last season
recent meetings P 5 4 9
Alnwick Town’s club captain and one of their longest-serving players, Bryan Murray displayed all of the aggression and tenacity that he has come to be known for in the last encounter between the two sides. The 30-year-old midfield battler will no doubt cause a few problems in Allotment’s midfield three this evening with his zealous tackling and never-say-die attitude.
W 3 3 6
D 2 0 2
L 0 1 1
F 14 9 23
A 7 2 9
3
No. of games Celtic have played against Alnwick w/out conceding
78.5
% of Alnwick’s points picked up on the road this season
the preview
15
alnwick town including eight further Alliance titles and five League Cups. After winning the Northumberland Amateur Cup in 1972, fans up north had to wait another nine years for their next silverware, as the side brought in the eighties with the Northern Alliance Subsidiary Cup.
the history A
LNWICK Town Football Club dates back over 130 years, with its predecessor, Alnwick United Services, formed in 1879 - at the time, the only association football side between Newcastle and Dunbar. At the turn of the century, Alnwick won the North Northumberland League, and moved to a new stadium, St. James’s Park, prompting a chance of name to Alnwick United Juniors. Four years later, the club won the North Northumberland Minor Cup as Alnwick St. James. Alnwick continued to ply their trade in North Northumberland for the next twenty years or so, before entering the East Northumberland League in 1923. Another twelve years passed before Alnwick made the decision to head further south, entering the Northern Alliance. It proved to be a wise move, as the club, renamed Alnwick Town, won the league just two years after their debut campaign. The sixties and early seventies are considered as the club’s heyday, as Alnwick amassed an impressive twenty trophies in twelve years,
16
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
Alnwick chose to make the step up once again in 1982, joining the newly-formed Northern League Second Division. Whilst there, Alnwick won the Northumberland Benevolent Bowl, and, in 1987/88, the floodlights at the ground were switched on for the first time. Fittingly, the tenants of the stadium’s namesake made the trip up north, as Newcastle United played a wellreceived exhibition match at the other St. James’. One year later, Alnwick Town finished as runners-up in Division Two, earning ascension to the next tier. After their relegation two years later, Alnwick were twice runners-up in the Craven Cup. However, the club were no longer challenging at the top of the table, and were ultimately consigned to relegation in 2006/07, having propped up the rest of the division, as well as failing to meet the ground criteria. The appointment of a shadow committee at the end of the 2007/08 campaign steadied the Alnwick ship, and, after being awarded Charter Standard Club status in 2009. Alnwick kicked on, finishing as runners-up in the Northern Alliance Premier League in 2010/11. Although they finished a respectable 16th in their first season back, Town finished a lowly 21st the next, spared the drop only by virtue of Ryhope’s failure to get their ground up to scratch. The Northumberland outfit will be hoping for a far less stressful campaign this time around.
Nickname: Town Ground: St. James’s Park Chairman: Tom McKie
Rivals: Largest home crowd 2013/14: 126 v Heaton Stan. Distance travelled tonight (approx.): 33 miles
the players Brian Brooks
Former Alnwick Junior with over 300 games for the club between the sticks, Brian is Town’s number one - however, some would say his talents are wasted in goal. He has also turned out for Shilbottle.
Danny Lowes
Danny has been a first team regular since the age of 18, excelling anywhere along the back line, but also possesses an eye for goal, and loves attacking down the flank.
Bryan Murray
Town’s club captain, Bryan is the heart and soul of Alnwick Town, with over 400 games for the club, leading by example. He can play anywhere along the back line, but excels at right-back.
Tom MacPherson
Tom is a classy centre-half who dominates in the air at both ends of the pitch. He’s made a promising start to his career with Alnwick Town, and has been handed the captain’s armband for this coming campaign.
Jake Lowes
Jake has also made the step up from the reserves this season, and will hopefully be the future of Alnwick’s left hand side for many years to come.
Tony Brown
Another former Shilbottle man, Tony is a classy creative midfielder known as Alnwick’s “Xavi”. He has an eye for goal and is also a threat in the air.
Kieran Hogg
‘Nippa’ has progressed well since moving up from the reserves. He can play anywhere across the midfield, and can whip in a deadly cross.
Chris Kidd
‘Balokiddy’ is another player from the reserves to make the step up this season. Seems to be made of glass, though - a slight problem for a footballer.
Dale Kennedy
Dale has an unbelievable workrate and is non-stop for ninety minutes. He can play anywhere on the pitch, but is a real threat up front and tends to score important goals.
James Jackson
Joined last season from Shilbottle, ‘Mins’ has a bright future ahead of him at the club. Deceptively quick for a tall lad, he will be hoping for more first team action this year in Dale Kennedy’s absence. Certainly one to watch.
Jon Colley
Another player to make the step up from the reserves, Jonny has contributed with goals and assists throughout the season whilst becoming a first team regular. He has also turned out for local side Embleton.
Ben Keenan
‘Di Keenio’ has been the leading goalscorer for the past three seasons, endearing himself to the Alnwick faithful. He is also vastly experienced at Northern League level, always proving a handful for the opposition defences.
Michael Robinson
Michael has joined the club this year and got his first goal of the season in the 2-2 draw away to Thornaby. the visitors
17
notably current captain Craig MacFarlane, but any chance of playing alongside him in the Seahorses’ successful team was scuppered by his occupation. “After a couple of seasons there, I was working every Saturday, so I had to pack it (the football) in.”
From fringes to first team
His work situation soon changed, affording him the chance to play at the weekend - and, with his desire for Saturday football still very Two years ago, Marc Allen was turning out for a much burning, he joined Sunday league teammate reserve side. Now, he’s an integral member Liam Hudson at Whitley of a Northern League squad gunning Park. He hasn’t looked back In August for promotion... since. 2012, West Allotment Celtic’s “I think I was just happy to get new-look squad was finally amongst it, really. We’ve got a taking shape. 26-year-old Marc Allen has strong starting eleven on paper. become a regular name on the Even in the first season when Midfield mainstays like Ian teamsheet, often featuring in Dunn, Sean Reid and Michael one of the three midfield berths I joined, there were a lot of Bell were supplemented by - but just two years ago, he was players on trial, and I was happy to get in, and you’ve just got to new faces from the pre-season turning out for the Alliance trials. Some, like Andy Charlton subsidiary of another ambitious earn your chance once you do and Shaun Quinn, found their Northern League club. “I played get in, try and play well. Not like today!” chances limited, leaving the all the way through Whitley club in the hope of finding Bay’s academy, and I got to Allen was speaking off the first-team football. Few would Whitley Bay Reserves,” he have predicted that another explained. “We trained with the back of Allotment’s 3-1 defeat unassuming triallist would go first team and whatnot, but they on the west coast, and was unashamedly honest in his on to make 24 appearances were flying at that point when assessment of the performance. for the club over the course of I was there, winning Vases for “What I think, some games, a the campaign - ousting higherfun. “‘Alge’ counts a number few players have an off game, profile players in the process. of Bay players as friends, most
18
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
but today I think literally, one to eleven, we had an off game. Normally it’s when we get to half-time that our performance changes, but the first goal, it was like we were a different team afterwards. Normally we are quite good at harrying around, doing all the work like Wilf would say, matching teams, but we didn’t really match them today. That was probably why we got beat. Deservedly.” Marc made his fifth start of the season that afternoon, but unwittingly contributed to Whitehaven’s victory with their third, and ultimately final, goal - though he insists he was not the only party at fault. “To be honest, me and Ryan have had a chat, he’s admitted that he was flat-footed, and he’s taken total blame for it. He’ll hold his hands up!” said Allen, tongue firmly in cheek. “It came off my shin, it bobbled up...I think I had time, but I didn’t realise I had time. It was one of them. The second own goal of my career!” The tireless midfielder has, on rather spectacular occasion, put the ball in the back of the other net, but is more comfortable dictating the play from a less advanced position when he gets the chance. “I prefer screening, I think. I like to do it simple, play the five, ten yard passes, but against Horden, you play me a little bit further up and I’ll score screamers! Nah, I prefer sitting
in front of the back four, keeping it simple, starting off attacks.” His preferred role is often occupied by none other than the club captain, and, with five more players jostling for just two starting berths, Allen insists that it keeps everyone on their toes. “I think it is probably without doubt the strongest area in the team at the minute. But it’s good, because it brings out the best in you. We’ve got different types of players, so for aggressive, physical games, we can change the whole look of the team. But then other games, we can play football and get the footballers on.” That brand of football was sorely lacking in the furthest reaches of Cumbria,but ‘Alge’ has no doubt that the versatile Celtic squad can compete. “It’s annoying that we’ve hit a bit of a lull, but we haven’t really hit fourth or fifth gear yet, and we’ve still picked up quite a few points. We’ve only lost two, and the two draws were disappointing, because again, we should have been a lot better. If we hit fourth or fifth gear, then we can beat the
majority of teams in the league comfortably.” Arguably one of Allotment’s breakout stars last season, Marc is an integral member of a squad that has its sights on the top tier - and, with any luck, the midfielder might find himself turning out at the Bay once more. Only this time, he’d be a member of the first team - and he’d be wearing the green and white hoops of their Celtic adversaries. the feature
19
on this day...
Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history
1954
1974 Despite a goal from Doug Noble, North Shields Reserves knocked Allotment out of the Northumberland Hospitals Cup with a 2-1 win. The match was actually a replay as the two teams had drawn one-all at Backworth several weeks earlier.
Seaton Sluice United edged a seven-goal thriller on the coast in a Northern League encounter. Celtic goals from Ken Barnes, Peacock and an OG weren’t enough to counter the powerful hosts who found the net four times.
1982
Celtic were on their way to retaining the Northern Amateur League title and made further progress with a 3-1 win over Gosforth Bohemians at Backworth Welfare. Daz Ridley scored twice and he was joined on the scoresheet by Peter Jackson.
1993
20
The clash of the previous seasons top two in the Northern Alliance proved to be a bit of a disappointment. Although Allotment dented Seaton Delaval Amateurs hopes of retaining their title with a 2-1 win at Backworth Welfare, it was Celtic keeper Dave Marshall who proved to be man of the match. Nevertheless, despite the dominance of the Amateurs it was the home side that took the lead when Paul Jeffery sent a downward header wide of Tullin in the visitors’ goal. A header brought the equaliser too when Rob Cross out-jumped the home defence and steered the ball in via the upright. The winner arrived fifteen minutes from time when Steve Forster slid in between two Delaval defenders to force the ball home. Marshall then kept his side’s lead intact with two excellent late saves from Jimmy Moses and Graham Walton.
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
on this day
tonight’s match sponsor
QUALITY AND SERVICE Wensley Roofing Ltd is a leading roofing contractor in North East England. The business started in 1987 and has an excellent reputation built on a strong commitment to quality, training and customer service. The company provides a comprehensive range of roofing services including slating, tiling, leadwork, felting and liquid roofing. Work includes new build and refurbishment of domestic, public sector and commercial properties, and renovation and restoration of heritage sites (see also our heritage division Matthew Charlton Slaters). Our clients include local authorities, housing associations, NHS trusts, churches, universities and major house builders. Our core area of operation is in the North East region, from Northumberland to North Yorkshire, but we also undertake contracts in other areas of the UK, notably Cumbria, Scottish Borders, South and West Yorkshire.
www.wensleyroofing.co.uk thank you for your support
west allotment celtic fc .com - All the latest news and events - Match previews and reports for every Allotment game - Picture galleries past and present - Back issues of Three Miles West, the official club magazine, and the club’s matchday programmes
the letter draw F
W
Y
2nd October 2013 2 winners of £400 each
For only £1 per draw, you choose 5 letters. 3 different letters are drawn and if your letters match the ones drawn you receive a share of the £800 jackpot – the jackpot is shared between everyone who has chosen the winning letters. The jackpot must be won every week. To play, simply hand the complete the form below and hand it to a club official. -----------------------------------CUT HERE----CUT HERE----CUT HERE--------------------------------Name:
Contact number:
What 5 letters would you like? Choose each letter only once.
the onion bag Craig Dobson’s take on the last seven days in the Allotment garden
“W
E never - never get anything in Cumbria.” Treasurer John Alexander called it before the game, during the game, and again afterwards. In the broadest sense, it wasn’t quite true. Much like last October, we were treated to a healthy dose of sunshine at the seaside town of Whitehaven. Some would say it was optimum conditions for a game of football - the goalkeepers, blinded by autumn rays for forty-five minutes apiece, would no doubt disagree. In terms of the football, however, John did have a point. Last year, we all made the 110-mile trip to the opposite coast, only to lose by one solitary goal in a remarkably even game. There were quibbles at the time that Craig Robson had strayed offside before finishing past Beal, whilst at the other end, Reid almost had his shirt taken off in the box, such was the ferocity of the tugging. Nothing was given, the referee erroneously believing that Reidy was simply incapable of dressing himself. One year on, and it seemed that Allotment’s fortunes along the A69 had scarcely improved. Two red
cards and two astonishing penalty awards stood as testament to that fact. Mr. Golightly had inadvertently nipped any rumblings of Cumbrian bias in the bud this time around, as the referee lived a matter of minutes away from our humble village. Rumours of him travelling on our coach from the Social Club proved to be inaccurate. Ultimately, the man in the middle took a back seat, as Celtic’s less-than-popular interpretation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde once again stole the show. A bright start on our part yielded the early goal, but the reshuffled team were soon in disarray. Whitehaven’s two quickfire goals were pleasing on the eye - probably moreso for their disappointingly sparse supporters. Ex-Hartlepool forward Tymon looked a real handful, scoring the first and playing his part in a fine flowing team move for the second. Their third, coming shortly after the break, would have rivalled both Tymon and Holliday’s goals, had it come from the boot of a Whitehaven attacker. Instead, it was Marc Allen who raced to meet a square ball, deflecting it high
goal of the week
man of the week
McKenna scored the game’s only goal, a simple tap-in after decent control in the box.
Few players shone in defeat, but Chris Douglas had a decent game at full-back.
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
past Beal with his first touch. In all fairness, the ball was on its way towards the predatory Tymon, who would have made it three regardless. Allotment’s luck had not made the journey across Cumbria with them, and so the next thirty minutes would prove. After being handed his last warning, the carded Tymon scythed down Dunn, but no second yellow was forthcoming. Dormand spurned two chances, McKenna another, and even from twelve yards, we couldn’t claw our way back into it. We only hit the desired target once more, Liam Hudson pinging the ball with purportedly accidental accuracy at the man in black. “I’m booking you for kicking it away, it’s irrelevant that it hit me,” insisted the ref. Sometimes we don’t get the rub of the green. Other times, we don’t get the decisions. Many times, we don’t get the result that we deserve. But, on this particular day, we didn’t get the performance required to win a tough game against worthy opponents.
the onion bag
23
top scorers
player statistics
Liam Hudson - 5 Michael Bell - 3
Lawrence McKenna - 2
gk
the playmakers
Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson
7 7 0
1 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
John Pendlebury Marc Dummett Chris Douglas Simon Wilthew Paul Stoneman Stephen Little Michael Latimer Glenn Ford Roy Gordon
10 (1) 11 11 (2) 1 (1) 12 4 2 (3) 10 1 (4)
1 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0
0 1 2 0 2 1 1 0 0
1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0
Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc Allen Sean Reid Kallum McGlen David Henderson Tony Lancaster Dean Lee
12 (1) 8 (2) 5 (4) 11 (1) 2 (5) 7 (1) 0 (2) 11
2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1
0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 3 0 1 2 0 0 0
6 0 1 6 0 0 0 2
Liam Hudson David Dormand Jed Findlay Ryan Anderson Lawrence McKenna
9 (2) 9 (2) 0
1 0 0
0 0 0
5 0 0
2 6 0
attack
the mainstays
Ian Dunn - 12 Paul Stoneman - 12 Chris Douglas - 11
0 5 (6)
Tow 00Law02Town03
0 0
average starting XI
the bad boys
Beal
Douglas
Ford
Stoneman
Dunn Paul Stoneman - 0 1 Michael Bell - 0 1 Marc Dummett - 1 0
24
gls
yel
midfield
Sean Reid - 6 Ian Dunn - 6 David Dormand - 6
red asts
apps
defence
name
Hudson
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
Dummett
Bell Reid
Lee
Dormand the player statistics
fixtures and results nl div 2 table
1
team North Shields
pl 12
w 9
d 2
l 1
gd pts 39 29
2
Heaton Stan
13
9
1
3
10 28
3
Birtley
11
8
0
3
22 24
4
Seaham
11
7
3
1
13 24
5
Northallerton 13
6
4
3
16 22
6
WAC
13
7
1
5
8
22
7
Darlo RA
15
5
6
4
4
21
8
Whickham
10
6
2
2
11 20
9
Nort & Stock
13
6
2
5
7
20
10 Tow Law
13
6
2
5
4
20
11 Stokesley
9
6
1
2
18 19
12 Alnwick
12
5
2
5
-1
13 jarrow
11
5
1
5
-11 16
14 South Shields 13
4
3
6
-7
15
15 Brandon
10
4
2
4
-5
14
16 Whitehaven
12
4
2
6
-10 14
17 Ch-le-Street
14
4
2
8
-13 14
18 Esh Winning
15
4
2
9
-14 14
19 Thornaby
13
3
3
7
-6
20 Willington
13
3
1
9
-31 10
21 Ryton
12
1
1
10 -19
4
22 Washington
12
1
1
10 -35
4
17
12
OFFICIAL NORTHERN LEAGUE SPONSORS
AUGUST 10th Alnwick Town 14th Heaton Stannington 17th Billingham Synthonia 21st Willington 24th Stokesley SC 30th Whickham
NL D2 NL D2 FA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A A A A H H
W 4-0 L 3-2 L 4-0 W 2-0 W 3-2 W 3-1
SEPTEMBER Seaham Red Star 4th Stokesley SC 7th 11th Norton & Stockton 14th Esh Winning 18th Ryton & Crawcrook 21st Penrith 28th Darlington RA
NL D2 FA Vase NL D2 NL D2 Lg Cup FA Vase NL D2
H H A H H A A
W 2-1 W 4-3 D 3-3 D 1-1 W 1-0 L 4-1 W 4-0
OCTOBER Whitehaven 5th Alnwick Town 9th 12th Birtley Town 16th Tow Law Town 19th Ryton & Crawcrook 23rd Willington 26th North Shields 30th Northallerton Town
NL D2 NFA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 EA Cup NL D2 NL D2
A H H H A A H H
L 3-1
NOVEMBER Brandon United 1st Jarrow Roofing 9th 16th Washington 23rd Chester-le-Street 30th Thornaby
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A H H
DECEMBER Heaton Stannington 6th 14th Willington 21st Seaham Red Star 28th Norton & Stockton
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
H H A H
JANUARY Tow Law Town 4th 10th Alnwick Town 18th Stokesley SC 31st Whickham
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A A
FEBRUARY South Shields 8th 15th Esh Winning 22nd Darlington RA
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
H A H
MARCH Whitehaven 1st Birtley Town 8th 15th Ryton & Crawcrook 22nd Northallerton Town 28th Brandon United
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
H A H A H
APRIL Jarrow Roofing 5th 12th Washington 18th North Shields 26th Thornaby
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A A
NL D2 NL D2 Lg Cup
A A H
TBD Chester-le-Street South Shields Northallerton Town
fixtures, results, table
25
ee itt m m ing Co eet m pm 8
rottweiler’s notes
Rin g Bloo the dho un
d!
23rd Sept
Morgan arrives at her normal time, has breakfast, then I take her to school. After that, off to Newcastle with Barbara, then home in time to collect Morgan from school.
24th Sept
Same as above, then match assessor at Whitley Bay v Guisborough Town. Match abandoned after 50 minutes due to foggy conditions.
25th Sept
This is becoming tedious; same as Monday and Tuesday, except we don’t collect Morgan from school.
26 Sept
Barbara hasn’t been well all week and we are due to fly to the Algarve tomorrow. Chair NFA Referees Committee Meeting in the afternoon. When I arrive home, Barbara’s condition has worsened. In the evening, Barbara is diagnosed with pneumonia. The doctor says it is a mild case, but she has to stay in bed for two to three days. I will be glad when this year is over. Everything has gone wrong.
th
27th Sept
House is very quiet due to Barbara’s illness and we have a number of emails and texts wishing Barbara well.Very nice to receive so many. October match officials appointments arrive, and I wonder if the referee wants a lift on the team coach to Whitehaven next Saturday. He lives 2.7 miles from our ground. I don’t believe I need say any more. Mind you, we have had a referee appointed just recently to one of our home games and he lives in West Allotment. These appointments put a lot of unfair pressure on the referees.
28th Sept
Spend the day at home trying to keep Barbara happy, which is virtually impossible at the best of times. I know by tea time she is feeling better as she is shouting at me. Still, that is a good sign. By evening time, Barbara is not so well after all.
29th Sept
Here is a bit more for the bugger (Mike Amos) to write. The bloodhound and I attend Sunderland v Liverpool today as guests of Wensley Roofing, and, unbelievably, bloodhound is wearing a Liverpool FC tie. A three course meal, drinks and a seat in the Directors Box thanks to Alex. During the game, I am astonished at the behaviour of a very senior Sunderland official swearing at Liverpool Directors as they celebrate Liverpool’s second goal. I have been very fortunate in life to have been afforded hospitality at some big and famous grounds, including Wembley, however today’s hospitality was the very best I have ever had. To round off the day, bloodhound wins £20 by forecasting the correct score.
26
West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town
rottweiler’s notes
FOREST HALL YPC
Proud to support West Allotment Celtic Forest Hall Young People’s Club are based at East Palmersville Sports Pavilion, and have no fewer than 25 teams playing under the Forest Hall banner, including youth, senior and women’s teams.
West Allotment Celtic
Alnwick Town
Manager: Paul STONEMAN Chris BANNON Ryan BEAL Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Marc DUMMETT Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Chris DOUGLAS Michael LATIMER Roy GORDON Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Lawrence McKENNA Ryan ANDERSON Jed FINDLAY Referee: P OSGOOD
Follow us @wacfc
Manager: Paul YEADON Brian BROOKS Marc MAVIN Dan MULLEN Danny LOWES David HILLS Tom MACPHERSON Jake LOWES Lee DUNDAS Alex MAKIN Bryan MURRAY (c) Tony BROWN Kevin ELLIOTT Christopher KIDD Kieran HOGG James JACKSON Ben KEENAN Thomas TRUSCOTT Jon COLLEY Dale KENNEDY Dan THOMPSON Peter MURRAY Danny DONOHOE Ross MORTON Mikey HALL Ross STRAUGHAN
Assistants: B MALCOLM
P MOSLEY
WADE FINANCIAL
Find us on Facebook www.westallotmentcelticfc.com