allotment
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14
the missing men
OUT
DOUBTFUL
Allotment’s list of the infirm and the unavailable approaches double digits
Club Sponsor
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www.thomaspotter.com MAIN SPONSORS OF WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
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welcome 16
Club Officials
14
President Chairman Vice-Chairman Secretary Treasurer Commercial
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contents
Committee
the history
4
the squad
6
the backroom staff
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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
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the last meeting
12
the preview
14
the visitors
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the feature
18
on this day
20
the letter draw
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Selected Club Honours
the onion bag
23
the player statistics
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fixtures, results, table
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rottweiler’s notes
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the squads
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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.
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West Allotment Celtic v Birtley 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
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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.
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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 Birtley Town
RB Chris Douglas LB Marc Dummett CM Alex Nisbet 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 LM Connor Graham ST Lawrence McKenna
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 David Dormand ST Liam Hudson 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
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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.
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West Allotment Celtic v Birtley 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.
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Paul Stoneman the backroom staff
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the last match
9TH OCTOBER 2013 NORTHUMBERLAND FA SENIOR CUP WHITLEY PARK
West Allotment Celtic 1 Alnwick Town 2
T
WO Tony Brown penalties at either end of the game sent a weakened Allotment crashing out of the NFA Senior Cup, with Alnwick Town sealing progression at their expense. The visitors were gifted an early lead from the spot after ‘keeper Chris Bannon was adjudged to have brought down Dale Kennedy with an outstretched leg, and midfielder Brown despatched the penalty. Bannon’s opposite number Daniel Mullen kept Sean Reid at bay with a fine stop, but Allotment failed to convert their possession into palpable chances on a bitterly cold Wednesday evening. Indeed, Town almost doubled their
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lead against the run of play, with Thomas Truscott heading just wide after a rapid counterattack. One minute later, Celtic grabbed the equaliser they deserved. A well-worked move through the middle culminated in a stabbed effort from Reid, which was deflected into the path of Dean Lee, who injured his knee whilst slamming the ball beyond Mullen. After half-time, Allotment continued to see more of the ball, Reid nodded a free header wide of the far post, before the skipper went one better, only to see his flick bounce over by way of the crossbar. Chris Douglas was the first to call Mullen into action in the
West Allotment Celtic v Birtley Town
second half, and the full-back would have put Celtic ahead, had the ‘keeper not pushed his curled effort onto the post, beyond the stretching Reid. Further injuries to an already depleted Celtic side forced a tactical reshuffle across the pitch late on, and Alnwick soon took the initiative, pressing for a winner. Kieran Hogg scuffed an effort across Bannon’s goal, and the ‘keeper was relieved to see Bryan Murray’s vicious half-volley fly just wide. However, with just minutes left, otherwise impressive debutant Alex Nisbet pulled back an attacker in the box, earning a red card in the process. Brown converted his second spot-kick, sending Allotment out at the first hurdle. the last match
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the last meeting
16TH MARCH 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO THE BIRTLEY SPORTS COMPLEX
Birtley Town 2 West Allotment Celtic 0
W
EST Allotment’s
eleven-match unbeaten streak came to a disappointing end on Saturday afternoon, as two second-half goals consigned Celtic to defeat away at fellow Tyneside outfit Birtley Town. The much-changed side more than matched the hosts in a largely scrappy encounter, but two goals in the final fifteen minutes - a Peter Henderson free-kick and a highly controversial Matthew Hornsby strike - consigned Allotment to their first defeat of 2013. Both sides were active in their pursuit of an early goal. Captain Ian Dunn was
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afforded space to shoot, but could only fire straight at ‘keeper Andrew Mullinson, whilst at the other end, fellow midfield marshal Daniel Smith curled over Ryan Beal’s crossbar.
before a fine effort after exquisite link-up play with Dean Lee was tipped over by the ‘keeper.
Allotment had the edge in the opening exchanges, and almost took the lead on two occasions. Tony Lancaster did exceptionally well to charge down an attempted Mullinson clearance, only for the ball to spin agonisingly beyond the post.
Towards the end of the half, Birtley stepped it up a gear, and could have taken a vital lead into the interval, were it not for a tremendous double save at point-blank range from Ryan Beal. James Allsopp then proceeded to squander Birtley’s best chance of the half, slamming a close-range indirect free-kick wide of Allotment’s goal.
Fellow midfielder Sean Reid almost went one better minutes later. First, an effort from the dangerous playmaker clipped the woodwork and went wide,
In stark contrast to the first half, the second period was a turgid and gritty affair. Celtic introduced more firepower from the bench in the form of David Dormand, and the
West Allotment Celtic v Birtley Town
striker should have put the visitors ahead after being expertly fed by Lee, but Mullinson got a strong hand to his effort and palmed it away from danger.
...in pictures
With time fast running out for both sides, Birtley finally broke the deadlock. Celtic gave away a cheap free-kick on the edge of the area, which was expertly curled home by Birtley’s Peter Henderson. The second also came from a dead ball situation - but was incredibly harsh on Allotment. The referee beckoned Dummett out of position to caution the full-back, and Birtley exploited his enforced absence with a quick freekick down the right flank. Play continued, much to Allotment’s bewilderment, and Hornsby stepped inside to fire past Beal. The dubious strike was allowed to stand by the officials, sparking a wave of outcry on and off the pitch, with a flurry of yellow cards bestowed upon the furious Celtic players. The second goal killed off the match, as Allotment could not muster a response in the final moments. Despite a spirited showing down Gateshead way, Allotment surrendered their unbeaten run in frustrating and questionable fashion. the last meeting
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the pre-match preview
form: WLWLL
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
T
WO defeats in as many games have seen West Allotment Celtic slip to eighth in the table and crash out of the Senior Cup - but a win today against contenders Birtley Town would get the season firmly back on track. Celtic had chances to take something from the west coast at Whitehaven, and hit the woodwork twice during the last-gasp 2-1 defeat at home to Alnwick Town, where two penalties against the run of play ultimately did the damage.
BIRTLEY TOWN form: lDDWl
T
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HIS season’s Birtley Town outfit is markedly different from that which finished a lowly 17th last year, thanks in no small part to a partnership struck up with Gateshead College and, by extention, Gateshead Football Club. The Heed ditched their reserve side, instead signing third-year College students to their first team and Birtley Town simultaneously. Chairman Graham Wood insisted that the level of competition for his second string was not good enough but he can expect the young
The hosts could potentially be missing over nine players for this afternoon’s crunch match, with a vast number of players missing for a variety of reasons. Tony Lancaster, Dean Lee, Marc Dummett, Michael Latimer and Glenn Ford are all expected to miss out through injury, whilst Liam Hudson remains away due to work commitments. Likewise, midfielder Marc Allen looks set to be unavailable for today’s game for similar reasons. Centre-half Stephen Little will be hoping to shake off a charges to face an altogether different kind of challenge in the Northern League this season. The Hoops’ young squad is packed with former Academy players from the Tyne and Wear area. Goalkeeper James McGregor and full-back Reece Noble once turned out for Sunderland’s youth team, whilst Curtis Coppen, Levi Oman and Estoban Cardona-Lopez, amongst others, were recently released by the Toon. The talented prospects started their debut Northern
West Allotment Celtic v Birtley Town
groin knock in time for the game, whilst Allotment will be hoping to have versatile defender Simon Wilthew available for selection. John Pendlebury and Ryan Beal had to settle for places on the bench, as both were carrying knocks going into the Senior Cup game, but may be called upon today. Recent signings Alex Nisbet and Connor Graham could potentially feature. Allotment’s squad may be stretched, but Paul Stoneman will still be expecting a clinical showing against tougher opposition. League campaign in startingly positive fashion, embarking on an eight match unbeaten run that included a goalless draw away at current leaders North Shields. Their streak was broken by the Robins’ rivals from across the water, and Birtley’s form has since dipped a little. Defeats at Whickham and a penalty loss to Coxhoe Athletic have been partially remedied by more positive results against Tow Law and Washington. Town will be disappointed if they do not take at least a point from their significantly weakened hosts this afternoon.
After spending months on the sideline with a severe knee injury missing the Ernest Armstrong Cup Final in the process - Dean Lee looked to be back on the road to recovery, but the winger sustained another injury in his opposite knee whilst scoring Allotment’s opener against Alnwick, and will likely be missing for a lengthy spell.
statattack The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park
60
No. of league goals scored by Dan Taggart
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recent meetings P 3 2 5
Birtley Town’s deadly centre-forward Daniel Taggart may only be 18, but he has already turned out for Northumberland and England Colleges. The Gateshead-based hot prospect has been touted as one to watch, and has already shown his promise in the Northern League, bagging seven goals thus far in Division Two.
W 2 1 3
D 1 0 1
L 0 1 1
F 8 5 13
A 4 4 8
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No. of points separating the two teams last season
18
Average age of Birtley’s squad
the preview
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birtley town football. This has proven to be very successful and has enabled the club to be awarded the FA Charter Standard Community Club Award.
the history B
IRTLEY Town Football Club reformed in 1993, joining the Wearside League and, at that time, taking their place in the old second division. After just missing out on promotion in their first season for a place in the top flight, Birtley’s second season was to prove more successful.The club won promotion as champions. On becoming established within Division One, Birtley lifted their first major trophy in 1998 by overcoming the newly crowned champions Annfield Plain in the League Challenge Cup Final. Four years later, the club had a magnificent season in all cup competitions, lifting both the League Challenge Cup and the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup. The Hoops narrowly missed out on a cup treble, due to being on the wrong end of a nailbiting penalty shoot-out result against Jarrow in the Sunderland Shipowners Charity Cup Final. This was followed by completing six consecutive years in reaching the final of the League Cup. In 2002, the club merged with Birtley St. Joseph’s Juniors to expand the club and develop a clear progression route from under 7’s through to under 18’s, and also develop girls and ladies
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West Allotment Celtic v Birtley Town
In the following season of 2003-04, Birtley Town ended 57 years without a League Championship when they were crowned Wearside League champions. Unfortunately, the league title was not accompanied by promotion, as Birtley’s ground did not meet the standards required by the Northern League. The recently constructed changing facilities, completed in October 2006, together with the addition of floodlighting has enabled Birtley to gain promotion to the Second Division of the Northern League. We are now able to compete in the FA Cup as well as the FA Vase. The ladies team are also competing in the FA Cup. As ground improvements continue, this will enable the club to look at the future and to continue to progress through the pyramid system. At the start of the 2013/14 season, Birtley Town announced an exciting partnership with Gateshead College, with selected third year students signing for both Gateshead F.C. and the Hoops, with the young prospects hoping to gain more experience by virtue of playing Northern League football. Overseen by Paul Bryson, former Gateshead Head Coach and the head of Gateshead College’s Football Academy, Birtley’s young guns have been tipped in many quarters to be promotion contenders, and will hope to be there or thereabouts come May.
Nickname: The Hoops Ground: Birtley Sports Complex Chairman: John Heslington
Rivals: Washington, Whickham Largest home crowd 2013/14: 135 v Whickham Distance travelled tonight (approx.): 10 miles
the players James McGregor
James is an outstanding young prospect. who was with Sunderland’s Academy from the age of 12 to 16, and also represented England Colleges at under 17 level. He was one of the College’s standout performers in 2012/13.
Reece Noble
Brother of current Carlisle player Liam, Reece is a former Sunderland Academy player, released at age 18. Reece is an attacking full back with excellent distribution.
Jordan Lee
Jordan is a commanding centre-half who is excellent in the air. A key player in Gateshead College’s FA Youth Cup run, Jordan is an amiable and likeable personality off the pitch who is great around the dressing room.
Jordan Lavery
The 18-year-old left-back is a former Durham County FA player who also represented English Colleges. He recently had trials at Middlesborough FC and Bolton Wanderers.
Curtis Coppen
The versatile former Newcastle Academy man can play in the centre of defence or midfield, and was a defensive mainstay for the Gateshead F.C.Youth Cup side. He featured prominently for Gateshead F.C. reserves and performed consistently well.
Matty Fisher
A former Gateshead College student and Dunston Fed player, Matty is a player with great energy and good quality in front of goal. Aside from his important role in the Youth Cup run, Matty’s well-taken winner in the National Cup Final at the Brittania Stadium was the highlight of his career to date.
Levi Oman
Former Newcastle Academy product Levi represented Durham County FA and was a key member in both the Youth Cup run and the National Cup winning under 19’s side. Levi also featured prominently for Gateshead F.C. reserves, where the midfielder performed consistently well.
Mark Brereton
A former Newcastle United Academy product, Mark is a tough tackling midfielder with good energy levels. An excellent College career over two years saw Mark represent England Colleges under 19’s and play a key part in the Youth Cup run.
Callum Hope
Callum is a versatile player who can play well either in midfield or behind the striker. The former Sunderland Academy product has excellent quality and should play a part in many goals this season.
Dan Taggart
Dan is an exceptional talent who has represented England Colleges and Northumberland FA. His performances were rewarded with a call up for England Colleges under 19’s National side.
Mechack Kanda
A powerful and athletic player blessed with great feet and scoring ability, Kanda is one to watch for the future. A key part of the BCS Under 17’s League and Cup-winning side. the visitors
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MATCH FITNESS
MATCH HAMSTRING FITNESS GROIN
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SUSPENSION WORK
THE MISSING MEN On the opening day of the season, things couldn’t have looked brighter for Allotment. Up at Alnwick, the sun was shining and the visitors were winning. During the interval, former Washington regular Michael Latimer was sitting at a clubhouse table rather than warming up amongst the substitutes. Despite not making the opening day squad, the experienced midfielder extolled the virtues of Celtic’s bolstered and seemingly watertight squad.
twenty-two first-team players has been whittled down to just sixteen ahead of today’s game - and even that is an optimistic total. It is a situation that was described in a nutshell by Paul Stoneman as “not ideal at all”. The player-manager will, along with Michael Bell, have to look on from the sideline, as the pair serve the final game of their respective three-match bans.
It is Stona’s absence that has been the most keenly felt, as his deputising centre-halves have engaged in a less-than-enjoyable Two months on, Latts is amongst nine certainties on the game of musical hernias. As list of absentees. Key members Stephen Little returns from his fall at every consecutive game, double operation, Glenn Ford with Dean Lee the latest victim. prepares to go under the knife. After the Alnwick defeat, Stevie For many, the pain barrier was was asked how he was holding shattered many a time before their resolve, but fortune has up after coming off in the defeat against Alnwick. “The hernia’s not favoured the brave. A fine - it’s the groin that’s gone!” squad that once contained
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West Allotment Celtic v Birtley Town
he retorted. Even Penders, Allotment’s man of steel, was not deemed fit enough to start in midweek, and more than able deputy Simon Wilthew is contractually obligated to work most Saturdays. Of all the original central defenders at the club, only Sean Reid - Celtic’s most dangerous playmaker in midfield - is fully match fit. By the end of Wednesday night’s game, Marc Allen was on at right-back, with Roy Gordon moving into the middle.You couldn’t make it up. The catastrophic combination of injuries, suspensions and occupational obligations has come ahead of two big home games, with Birtley Town Gateshead’s de facto reserve side - and dark horses Tow Law both coming to town within the next five days. Today’s visitors would serve as a tough test for our strongest starting
CALF STRAIN
HERNIA
SUSPENSION
KNEE KNEE
ARMED FORCES
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Six decisively waylaid through injury, two suspended, one away with the Army and doubts remaining over the availability of six more. Can Allotment’s squad players - and new signings - guide them through the club’s early selection crisis? eleven, let alone a side missing a number of its dependable mainstays. Not least Liam Hudson, whose physicality and relentlessness will be put to good use by Her Majesty’s Armed Forces this week but would be even better served against an undoubtedly talented, but very young, Birtley outfit.
games will show just what the squad is made of. Last season, Dougs filled in for Marc Dummett whilst the latter was injured - and, upon his return, kept him out of the team. Likewise, Marc Allen began his Allotment career with a series of brief cameos from the bench, and has worked his way into regular rotation.
Instead of lamenting what we are missing, we ought to concentrate on the players we have at our disposal. Our midfield three, the core of our side, remains strong; last season’s top scorer is being pushed Lawrence McKenna; Chris Douglas, one of the most versatile members of the squad, is available to play wherever and whenever called upon.
Selection has always been based on merit, just as it should be - and the fringe players will head into the next seven days knowing that regular first-team football is very much up for grabs.
The team remains strong, if a little thin - but the next two
Two players desperate to impress are Alex Nisbet and Connor Graham, recent short-term signings from Longbenton. Though there are three divisions between the two sides, both looked assured on Wednesday night, displaying
a calmness and confidence that would serve them well in the Northern League. Nisbet in particular had an excellent debut, despite his costly late dismissal. Allotment can certainly use young, hungry talent - it’s just a shame that a suspension is forthcoming for one of them. Will they, and any other potential Alliance signings, be available on Saturdays? Only time will tell. More fresh faces are expected to be turning out in the green and white hoops over the coming weeks, but it’s not just the new boys that have to make the step up. The entire squad - the indispensables and the fringe players alike - have to dig deep and grind out those results. With plenty missing off the pitch, Celtic can’t afford to have players going AWOL once they get out there. the feature
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on this day...
Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history
1957
1963 Allotment lost their first league game of the season in spectacular style by losing 0-7 away to Naval Yard. Ironically, just weeks later, Celtic won the return fixture 3-0!
Goals from Dixon and Miller guided Celtic to a 2-0 win at home to Delaruvians in the second round of the NFA Minor Cup. Seven months later, and after ten matches in the competition, Allotment lifted the Cup by overcoming Stamfordham in a replayed final.
1991 Allotment made progress in the Northern Alliance League Cup at Haltwhistle. Goals from Chris Kelly, Michael Storey and Micky Chilton gave Celtic a comfortable interval lead. However, the visitors switched off after the break and strikes from Diggle and Irwin put Haltwhistle right back in the match. Fortunately, Allotment woke up in time and managed to hang on to their single goal advantage.
1996
20
West Allotment Celtic v Birtley Town
Celtic were in the process of recovering their form after an indifferent start to the campaign. Spittal Rovers quickly discovered the full strength of the resurgence as they slumped to a 6-1 defeat at Hillheads. George Caithness always had a penchant for scoring against Rovers and he started the rout, nipping in to slip the ball home after the keeper had parried Dave Malone’s header into his path. Jimmy Moses doubled Allotment’s lead before the break and both he and Caithness also scored after the interval. The half-dozen was reached thanks to a brace from Steve Torre. Ian Young’s goal three minutes from time was scant consolation to the visitors.
on this day
bob thomas Bob Thomas, one of West Allotment Celtic’s long-time supporters, passed away on Thursday afternoon following an illness. Bob was a steadfast regular at Whitley Park, braving the elements year upon year to watch the lads in action, even when consigned to a wheelchair in later life. Bob will be dearly and desperately missed by all at the club. Our thoughts are with his family at this terribly sad time. Please join us in observing a minute’s silence for one of our most valued fans - and, more importantly, a great man - prior to kick-off this afternoon.
scott bell
1978 - 2013 Though best remembered for his league and cup-winning exploits at Blyth Spartans, Scott spent some time at West Allotment between 2000 and 2003, scoring 21 times in 61 games. “Bellveccio” was brave in the face of his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease, raising almost £80,000 to help find a cure through the Scott Bell Fund. Scott will be sorely missed not just at the clubs he played at, but within the North-Eastern community at large.
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 N
M
T
8th October 2013 12 winners of £66.70 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
EDNESDAY night truly marked the onset of the typically bitter British winter. The vicious winds whipped around Whitley Park almost as soon as the sun started setting, turning a midweek football match into a gruelling endurance challenge - and not just for the players. The weather isn’t the only thing that’s taken a turn for the worse in recent weeks. Allotment’s hot start to the season has cooled somewhat. The lukewarm performances at Norton & Stockton, and at home to Esh Winning, could be forgiven as blips, and the fiery Vase tie at Penrith was heated in an altogether different manner. The trip to Whitehaven was brighter in meteorological terms, but the display on the west coast did not live up to the sunnier atmosphere. A Senior Cup win against Alnwick would have warmed the hearts, if not the hands, of the Allotment faithful, but the hosts were caught cold by the Northumberland outfit. Alex Nisbet, starting his first ever game for the club, sold Chris Bannon short with his backpass, and the attacker raced
onto the ‘keeper’s outstretched leg (so the latter says). It was the typical forward’s trick, one exploited time and again at all levels; beat the goalie to the ball, knock it past him away from goal, and go down after the inevitable contact. To many, myself included, it looked like a penalty. Most importantly, the man in the middle agreed, and Tony Brown soon put Town ahead from the spot. We kept a hold of the ball for the majority of the half, and deservedly equalised through Dean Lee, but the chances still weren’t entirely forthcoming. In the second half, Celtic struck the woodwork twice, but another penalty decided the game in the visitors’ favour. This one was stonewall, as Nisbet - one of Allotment’s better players on the night hauled down his man in the area, and was duly given his marching orders. With penaltysaving (tragic) hero Ryan Beal looking on from the bench, Brown beat Bannon once more, casting Allotment out into the cold. Given the amount of injuries, suspensions and absences were have incurred, the performance was not as disappointing as the result.
From one to eleven, Allotment worked hard, but that decisive clinical edge just wasn’t there. Of course, a couple of inches here or there and it would have been a completely different story. With so many missing from the ranks (see page 18 for the full and rather depressing rundown), it is fair to say that we are currently under a cloud, with the brief glimpses of sunshine smothered by the darkening skies. The fans might have to wrap up and brace themselves for another cold snap - but, with a number of players set to return in the coming fortnight, the forecast looks set to improve.Then again, when does the weatherman ever know what he’s talking about? One man who always braved the elements was Bob Thomas. Even a matter of mere weeks ago, with his health declining, he was there at Whitley Park on another bitter evening to watch the boys in action. A longtime fan and a good man to boot, Bob will be missed by everyone at the club, myself included.
goal of the week
man of the week
Dean Lee was the only player to get on the scoresheet for Celtic - but in doing so, injured his left knee.
Despite playing a significant part in both of Alnwick’s goals, centre-back Alex Nisbet made an impressive debut for the club.
West Allotment Celtic v Birtley Town
the onion bag
23
top scorers
player statistics
the playmakers
Liam Hudson - 5 Michael Bell - 3
Lawrence McKenna - 2
midfield
Sean Reid - 6 Ian Dunn - 6 David Dormand - 6
defence
gk
name
attack
the mainstays
Ian Dunn - 13 Paul Stoneman - 12 Chris Douglas - 12
Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson
8 7 0
2 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 Alex Nisbet Roy Gordon
10 (1) 11 12 (2) 1 (1) 12 5 2 (3) 10 1 2 (4)
1 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0
0 1 2 0 2 1 1 0 0 0
1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0
Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc Allen Sean Reid Kallum McGlen David Henderson Tony Lancaster Dean Lee Connor Graham
13 (1) 8 (2) 5 (5) 12 (1) 3 (5) 8 (1) 0 (2) 12 0 (1)
2 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 0
0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 3 0 1 2 0 0 0 0
6 0 1 6 0 0 0 3 0
Liam Hudson David Dormand Lawrence McKenna
9 (2) 10 (2)
1 0
0
5
2
5 (6)
Tow 00Law20Town36 0
average starting XI Beal
Douglas
Ford
Stoneman
Dunn
24
gls
yel
the bad boys
Paul Stoneman - 0 1 Michael Bell - 0 1 Alex Nisbet - 0 1
red asts
apps
Hudson
West Allotment Celtic v Birtley 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
Northallerton 14
7
4
3
19 25
4
Seaham
12
8
0
4
19 24
5
Birtley
11
7
3
1
13 24
6
Tow Law
13
7
1
5
8
22
7
Nort & Stock
15
5
6
4
4
21
8
WAC
10
6
2
2
11 20
9
Darlo RA
13
6
2
5
7
20
10 Whickham
13
6
2
5
4
20
11 Jarrow
9
6
1
2
18 19
12 Ch-le-Street
12
5
2
5
-1
13 Brandon
15
5
2
8
-11 17
14 Whitehaven
11
5
1
5
-11 16
15 Willington
13
4
3
6
-7
15
16 South Shields 10
4
2
4
-5
14
17 Alnwick
12
4
2
6
-10 14
18 Stokesley
15
4
2
9
-14 14
19 Thornaby
13
3
3
7
-6
20 Esh Winning
13
3
1
9
-31 10
21 Ryton
13
1
1
11 -21
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 L 2-1
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 Birtley 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.
BIRTLEY Manager Paul BRYSON Assistant Stu SHERWOOD Coach Andy INNES Physio M. ROBINSON
CELTIC Manager Paul STONEMAN Assistant Wilf KEILTY Coach Paul HOGG Physio Charlotte FERGUSON
J GATENBY MATCH OFFICIALS Referee K BECKETT Assistants A WELSH
West Allotment Celtic Chris BANNON Ryan BEAL Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Marc DUMMETT Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Chris DOUGLAS Michael LATIMER Roy GORDON Alex NISBET Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Connor GRAHAM Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Lawrence McKENNA Ryan ANDERSON Jed FNDLAY
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