WAC programme - Whitehaven by Craig Dobson

allotment

WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

all hotting up five horses, three places, one ultimate aim

Club Sponsor

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welcome 19

Club Officials

President Chairman Vice-Chairman Secretary Treasurer Commercial

contents

Committee

the history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the last meeting

the preview

the visitors

“focus on the league”

the letter draw

race night

hotting up

the player statistics

fixtures, results, table

rottweiler’s notes

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

Backroom Staff Manager Assistant Manager First Team Coach Physio

Paul Stoneman Wilf Kielty Paul Hogg Charlotte Ferguson

Selected Club Honours Northern Alliance champions

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

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.

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

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

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.

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 GK Jack Thompson

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.

Simon Wilthew John Pendlebury Chris Douglas CB Age: 25 RB Age: 27 RB Age: 29 Simon featured 15 times A first-team regular since The ultimate utility player, at the back for Allotment signing for Allotment Chris can be employed last season. Strong at from Ryton in 2010, anywhere down either centre-half and adept at John’s relentless work flank to devastating left-back, the Monkseaton ethic and tenacious effect. The former North defender will be looking tackling bring stability Shields man’s pace and to build on his impressive to the back four. The perception underpins his debut in the Northern full-back often serves as undoubted ability, be it League. captain in the absence of as a full-back or a wide Ian Dunn. midfielder.

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

RB Chris Douglas LB Marc Dummett CM David Borley CM Roy Gordon CM Ian Dunn

CM Marc Allen CM David Henderson CM Michael Bell CM Sean Reid RM Kallum McGlen

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.

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.

RM Tony Lancaster RM Matt Slater LM Dean Lee LM Connor Graham ST Lawrence McKenna

ST Liam Hudson ST David Dormand ST Jed Findlay ST Rob Nolan

David Borley David Henderson CM Age: 30 CM Age: 31 Central midfielder David David Henderson turned out for Bury in rejoined the club last his youth, and the football season, and the former coach has gone on to North Shields schemer represent the likes of provides another option Bedlington Terriers, going forward through Hebburn Town and the middle. Henders Jarrow Roofing in the is arguably one of the Northern League. A most skilful players in the dynamic playmaker. squad.

Ian Dunn Marc Allen Sean Reid CM Age: 31 CM Age: 26 CM Age: 21 Long-serving, tough Marc previously turned Rangy, pacy and tackling midfielder Dunn out for Whitley Bay technically gifted, Sean has grafted tirelessly Reserves, but has can play as a roaming for three years at West become a mainstay in the central midfielder, a Allotment, earning the Celtic squad. His astute dangerous centrecaptain’s armband in the passing, ball retention forward, or even an adept process. “Dunny” remains skills and battling tenacity centre-back. The former one of Celtic’s key men are evident whenever he Ryton forward is one of deep in the heart of is called upon in central Celtic’s most promising midfield. midfield. attacking outlets.

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

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.

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

Rob Nolan ST Age: 24 Signed from Cramlington Rob scored 30 goals for North Shields before Town last February, Jed earning his big move to is a promising forward with plenty of attacking Blyth Spartans, and after brief spells at Whitley potential. Having made a Bay and Bedlington, the handful of appearances last season, the striker clinical forward is looking to once again make his will be hoping to get mark upon Division Two. 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, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Stonaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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

the last match

25TH FEBRUARY 2014 NORTHERN LEAGUE CUP GER STADIUM

Marske United 2 West Allotment Celtic 0

ECOND-half goals from substitute Scott Matthewman and Josh MacDonald put Marske United through to the Fourth Round of the League Cup at West Allotment Celtic’s expense. A mouthwatering home tie against Guisborough Town awaited the victor, and for forty-five minutes, it seemed that the visitors would prevail in North Yorkshire. However, Celtic failed to capitalise on their early dominance, allowing Marske to grow into the game after the interval. Aside from a tame Andrew Jennings header and an easily gathered free-kick, Marske rarely threatened, playing second fiddle to their Second

Division opponents. Playing the brighter attacking football, Allotment thrice went close in the opening period, but failed to hit the target when it mattered. An early Sean Reid set-piece flew wide of Robert Dean’s post, but the ‘keeper was soon grateful for the timely intervention of his centre-half, Adam Wheatley hacking the ball from beyond the lurking David Dormand. When Allotment did test the goalkeeper, Dean proved to be up to the task. A sumptuous ball from deputising fullback Michael Bell was well controlled by Reid, whose firm effort was palmed away from danger. Bell’s teammate on the right flank should have put Celtic in front, but lashed inches beyond the far post with

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

Dean well beaten. A matter of millimetres once again proved to be the difference just minutes later, as Sean Reid rose highest to meet a Chris Douglas corner, and the occupants of the penalty area could only watch it sail past the angle of the woodwork. Having survived a handful of close calls, the Seasiders rallied towards the end of the half. Levent Yalcin shanked an effort high and wide, before Glen Butterworth looked likely to at least hit the target, only for Paul Stoneman’s block to deny the midfielder. At the other end, Allotment had one final chance as the interval approached, and could have taken the lead when Reid

The match report from Tuesday night’s trip to the seaside, where Marske United lay between them and a place in the Fourth Round of the Northern League Cup... set his sights on goal, but the attacking midfielder skewed a difficult volley wide following a corner. Celtic’s influential 21-year-old looked to pick up where he left off when play resumed, forcing Dean into another diving save within minutes of the restart, but the visitors’ momentum had been stifled by their inability to strike while the iron was hot – and Marske took advantage with just their third attempt on target. Yalcin had already threatened to test Chris Bannon, blasting wide of goal, but the returning ‘keeper could not get across quickly enough to keep out Matthewman’s looping header just after the hour mark. Going behind prompted a change in tactics from Allotment, who began to resort to long ball tactics in an effort to force their way back into the tie. However, the Marske defence, boosted by the opener, stood strong, even under a barrage of corners and long throw-ins towards the box. In a near-complete reversal of the first half, it was Marske who now looked the more dangerous of the two sides.

A free kick fizzed wide off the boot of Liam O’Sullivan, before the full-back reverted to defensive duties, heading away a rare Paul Stoneman shot. With Allotment pushing men forward in search of a leveller, Marske effectively killed the game off with a second goal – gifted to them by the goalkeeper. Bannon raced out to try and intercept a looping cross, but despite beating MacDonald to the ball, his feeble header did not travel. The winger still had work to do, and did well to retain enough composure to lob the ball over the despairing Bannon’s head.

Coming away from the GER Stadium, West Allotment cannot be aggrieved with the result, having struggled to maintain their momentum throughout the match, but will be disappointed that they did not get that decisive first goal amidst the early pressure. On the night, Allotment matched their Division One opponents for the most part, and will take heart from the fact when Whitehaven travel to Whitley Park this afternoon.

The stunned away side responded with a change of their own, Lawrence McKenna driving wide not long after taking to the field. The necessary pressure left gaps at the back which Marske almost exploited further, MacDonald thumping the ball wide despite being well placed to test the ‘keeper. He did as much soon after, but Bannon was equal to his close range effort, and the stopper went some way to redeeming himself with fine saves from consecutive headers.

the last match

the last meeting

5TH OCTOBER 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO FOCUS SCAFFOLDING SPORTS COMPLEX

Whitehaven 3 West Allotment Celtic 1

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

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 Whitehaven

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 meeting

the match preview

form: WWDWL

WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC

LLOTMENT’S League Cup hopes may have ended with a whimper rather than a bang, but the team can take plenty of positives from elements of their performance at Marske United. Although Celtic would concede two decisive goals in the second half, they proved to be up to Division One standard against the Seasiders - although they will rue those missed chances of the first half. Player-manager Paul

WHITEHAVEN form: WLDLW

FTER bouncing back from a middling 2011/12 campaign with a strong ninth-placed finish last season, Whitehaven have struggled to replicate their previous form, finding themselves within touching distance of the relegation places. Haven seem to have recovered from an early 10-0 drubbing at the hands of runaway leaders North Shields, but good results against the likes of West Allotment and away at Tow Law were offset by a highscoring defeat at Darlington RA, as well as home losses

Stoneman travelled down to North Yorkshire without the luxury of a fully fit squad, although a number of players did make the Tuesday night trip regardless. Full-back John Pendlebury and striker Robbie Nolan were both present at the GER Stadium, but only the former was named on the bench, only recently working his way back to a degree of fitness. Although former North Shields attacker Nolan did not get into the matchday squad, he is expected to shake off an ankle injury in time for today’s game. to Brandon United, Norton & Stockton Ancients and Willington, to name but a few. The inconsistent form sees Paul Brown’s men drifting down in nineteenth place, but the Cumbrians do have time on their side - as well as a surplus of fixtures to complete, with at least four games in hand on the three teams below them. That said, Brandon United are currently seven points adrift of Whitehaven, making relegation a highly unlikely outcome for a team of Haven’s quality.Their recent run reflects the course of

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

David Borley is also fit following the enforced January break, whilst fellow centre-mid Marc Allen is also ready for firstteam action, ensuring that competition for places in the middle of the park is at its highest in weeks. Marc Dummett may also be in contention to play, but Dean Lee and Glenn Ford both remain out. Games against Whitehaven always tend to be close affairs, and Allotment will have to rediscover their ruthless streak in front of goal if they are to win today. their season, three middling results bookended by fine victories. An away win at Whickham was closely followed by a shock 4-1 defeat to Esh Winning, before Lee Woolf’s equaliser sealed a point for the far-flung visitors at Chester-le-Street. They left the Nissan Complex empty-handed eleven days later, but rebounded in midweek with a superb 3-1 win against Dunston in the cup, Greg Quayle and David Donald amongst the scorers. They will carry immense confidence as they traverse across the country.

Previously Vice-captain stricken John midfielder Pendlebury Dean has not Leefeatured made his competitively longawaited for Allotment returnsince from picking a persistent up a knock knee thirty injury minutes ininto midweek, the game striking against the crossbar Tow Lawand in early missing aJanuary. further gilt-edged The rightchance back managed by mere inches. thirty minutes Now fully in a recovered warm-up game from the against injury Celtic - initially ‘A’, and despite sustained sitting onat the bench at Northallerton Marske, remains last a doubt season for a place - ‘Deano’ in today’s will add starting extraeleven. firepower to the squad.

Goals may be in short supply at the Focus Scaffolding Complex, but Haven can often look towards Matty Tymon to pull something out of the bag. The former Hartlepool prospect is an intelligent forward who is already known to the Allotment back four as a handful, having scored against them in the reverse fixture.

statattack 75

The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park

% of Haven goals scored by Matty Tymon

WAC clean sheets thus far

Point between the two teams last season

105

Celtic’s number of days unbeaten in the league

Points today’s visitors have picked up on the road

the preview

whitehaven afc the history

AFC was formed Win 1994 following the decision HITEHAVEN

by Marchon Chemical Works to withdraw its financial sponsorship from Marchon AFC, and to use the playing area for industrial purposes. Despite suffering at the hands of vandals early on, the club very quickly expanded to encompass junior sides at every age level, and although the club struggled financially at times, the players at every level have improved, culminating in our senior side becoming Wearside League champions for the first time in their history. However, the club was denied promotion to the Northern League because of its ground limitations. This was eventually achieved in 2007/8 after the club had appeared in successive Shipowners Cup finals, and won the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup, all whilst performing well in the Wearside League. Much hard work had brought the ground up to the required standard and the dream was realised. Steady progress has been made in the two years since admission, and the club emphasised this by winning the Ernest Armstrong Trophy last season. Last year

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

saw the club enter the FA Vase for the first time, and this year the club competes in the FA Cup for the first time in its history. The club has achieved Community Charter Standard status and is committed to providing quality coaching to all who join the playing side of the club. A ladies team was started last year and won promotion, and a girls side is currently being developed. One of the strengths of the club is its junior base, which provides opportunities for all age groups and abilities to play football. Several players have been selected to join Carlisle United School of Excellence over the years, and some have gone on to play for Morecambe, Workington Reds and Penrith. Probably the best known player produced by the club is current player-manager Stuart Green, (pictured), who signed his first contract at Newcastle United. The midfielder later had stints with Hull City, Wycombe, Crystal Palace and Crewe, and we have a number of talented players who are keen to emulate him. Recent developments at the County Ground have resulted in a third generation all weather pitch being positioned on the site, and with increased usage and sponsorship, the future looks very bright for football in the area.

Nickname: Haven Ground: Focus Scaffolding Complex Chairman:

Rivals: Penrith Largest home crowd 2013/14: 208 v Chester-le-Street Distance travelled today (approx.): 100 miles

the players Stuart Pettitt

Now in his third year with Whitehaven, former Netherhall stopper Pettitt has established himself as an experienced Northern League goalkeeper.

Kevin Law

Kev joined from Cumbrian outfit Windscale as a midfielder, but has fast become one of the better centrehalves in Division Two.

Jonathan Roseby

A combative centre-half who looks equally comfortable when tasked with marshaling the middle of the park. He has previous experience in the division with North East outfits Birtley Town and Whickham.

James Parker

Now in his third spell with the club, centre-half Parker has accrued a vast amount of Northern League experience, which serves him well within the back four. Formerly of Gillford Park.

The pen profiles of some of Haven’s key squad members

Paul Brown

The club’s player-manager is an experienced defender who operates largely on the right, but can also play in midfield. An assured presence on and off the pitch. Was appointed as boss prior to the start of the 2013/14 season.

Malcolm Holliday

Whitehaven’s club captain, Mally is an experienced hand in the centre of midfield. One of Haven’s long-serving and well-respected players.

Craig Robson

Another loyal servant to the club, Craig is a winger with pace to burn, who can pose problems on the left flank or in a more advanced attacking position.

Stuart Shaw

Once of former SPL side Gretna, Stuart is a fine passer of the ball, and is a strong presence in the air for Whitehaven.

Matt Tymon

David is a dangerous central midfielder, having converted to the position in recent times, but can also pose a real threat up top.

Matty first came to attention within Hartlepool United’s youth system, and has since turned out for the likes of Sunderland RCA and Workington Reds. A forward who oozes class.

Darren Donald

Kevin Connelly

David Dustin

Another player to have made the move from Windscale, Darren is best known as a hard-working winger, but is capable of bringing similar qualities to the middle of the park.

Back with the club, prolific forward Connelly spent time at Penrith before returning to Haven. Deadly on his day.

Leigh Dunn

Ex-Cleator Moor Celtic forward with a good scoring record. In his second spell with the club. the visitors

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“focus on the league” No silverware this season, but a top three placing would be as good as anything in the trophy cabinet

AST season’s remarkable cup run was, without a shadow of a doubt, the highlight of the 2012/13 season for West Allotment Celtic. The start of the previous campaign was sluggish at best, catastrophic at worst, promotion hopes withering in tandem with the autumn leaves. Languishing in mid-table, Allotment had little to play for other than pride. Contrary to what some may believe, progression in knockout competitions did not kickstart Celtic’s rapid ascendancy up the table. The side had strung together a seven game unbeaten run before defeating Team Northumbria in the League Cup (albeit after a tense period of extra time).Victory over a Division One side proved to be a shot in the arm, even if they did bow out to heavyweights Dunston UTS in the next round. Against less formidable opposition in the division’s own cup competition, Celtic stormed to the final, emphatic victories over Seaham and Washington paling in comparison to the scarcely believable 4-3 extra-time victory over Darlington RA in the semis, having been three goals down and seemingly out within half an

hour of kick-off. The final itself was no less thrilling, Allotment going down to ten men and still emerging victorious in a crazy finale against Northallerton. Despite having to play just four games to win the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup, each one brought added momentum and an adrenaline rush that a midweek league trip to Brandon just can’t replicate. This year, any hope of defending the Cup, or acquiring a different one, were ended a little prematurely. But in a sense, they have already served their purpose, providing the best possible platform for a serious tilt at promotion. Last year’s win transformed a season of missed opportunities into one of moderate success, putting a trophy in the cabinet for the first time in nine years. It was a vital morale boost for the team and the club, one which has carried over into the current campaign. Some place silverware ahead of league achievements, but who wouldn’t want to rub shoulders with Division One’s great and good? To borrow a loser’s cliché, we can focus our full attention on the league - but promotion can be our trophy, on display every Saturday at a Whitley Bay or a Bishop Auckland. “focus on the league”

THREE MILES WEST • Glenn Ford and Michael Bell discuss their respective nonleague careers • The new upward direction of the Allotment ‘A’ team • Celtic’s pre-war success - and post-war struggles • Goal analysis, New Year resolutions and the impact of Sunday football on Saturday players

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the letter draw X

25th February 2014 4 winners of £200 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 complete the form below and hand it to a club official. -----------------------------------CUT HERE----CUT HERE----CUT HERE--------------------------------Name:

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West Allotment Celtic v North Northern Shields League Division Two

29th March 2013

west allotment celtic established 1928

As we chase for a promotion place, join us for another kind of race!

race night

Saturday 15th March 2014 West Allotment Social Club 7.30pm Admission ÂŁ5 inc. pie and peas

oming

hotting up

a look at the five sides competing for promotion

Sitting atop the table, North Shields are currently nine points clear of Seaham Red Star - and, with three games in hand, have to be counted as hot favourites to go up. The attacking partnership of Gaz Bainbridge and Dan Smart has yielded an astonishing 56 goals between them. The Robins have been near-unstoppable in attack, surpassing the 100 mark last week against Northallerton. There’s plenty of strength in depth, too; enough to allow a forward of Keith Douglas’ calibre to head out on loan. However, some sides have finally found chinks in Shields’ previously impenetrable armour, with both Seaham and Brandon defeated them without conceding in their last two games. Could Shields succumb to the end-of-season slip that has befallen them in their two previous campaigns, or are they strong enough to hold out?

Many predicted that the wheels would come off the Jarrow Roofing machine once Paul Bennett departed earlier in the season. However, the squad that the former Celtic boss drafted in has remained largely intact, and, under the guidance of benefactor Richie McLaughlin, the Roofers have maintained their rampant charge towards the top of the table. Extensive progression in the cups stunted their ascent, but Roofing have steadily worked their way through their games in hand, keeping cool under pressure and winning match after match, home and away. 20-goal striker Liam ‘Hitman’ McBryde has been integral to their promotion push, whilst Dan Kirkup and Paul Gardiner have been superb in defence and midfield respectively. The Roofers still have to take on Heaton Stan and Celtic in April - the very definition of six-pointers.

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

Allotment have been there or thereabouts for the majority of the season, steadily picking up good results at home and on the road. Paul Stoneman’s side are currently unbeaten in the league in over 100 days, their last defeat coming against Jarrow Roofing way back in November. Sean Reid has led the way from attacking midfield, looking likely to surpass the 30goal mark within the next few games, whilst the contributions of David Dormand, Michael Bell and centre-half Stephen Little must not go unnoticed. They’ve certainly done it the hard way; few high-scoring romps like many of their promotion rivals, but more often than not, Allotment have displayed enough strength of character to close out the narrowest of results. Celtic tend to perform at their best against the best teams, which should stand them in good stead ahead of a potentially tricky season finale.

the verdict

Mark Collingwood has set about building a squad capable of attaining promotion to Division One in the past two seasons, and may finally have managed it with his current crop. Plenty of players have come and gone through the gates at Seaham Town Park, but the latest recruits have ienabled the Star to really kick on. The wily Adam Johnston, a summer signing, has scored almost one goal per game for the Durham outfit, but it is Colly’s more recent acquisitions that have caught the eye. Former Roofing pair Dean Nicholson and Darren Reay add real class to a midfield run by none other than ex-Whitley Bay legend Lee Kerr. The bald-pated maestro is back to his very best, and could well be the difference between a crack at the top flight and another season in the second tier. It remains tight, but the Star are in top form - and are outshining their rivals.

The darkest horses from day one, recently promoted Heaton Stan could yet emulate the Celtic side of the early noughties in achieving backto-back ascension. Some unfairly lambasted the issues with the floodlights off the pitch, but fewer still thought that they could maintain their form on it, regardless of the state of play at Grounsell Park. Heaton have proven their detractors wrong, installing the required equipment and maintaining their lightning start to the season. Jonathan Wright has been nothing if not prolific, with 30 goals to his increasingly well-known name. The Stan have faltered a little in recent weeks, and their cause has been severely hindered by the loss of Lee Johnson to a freak injury. Though in danger of slipping out of contention, Heaton have defied expectations before, and could well do so again.

This year, the race for promotion is almost too close to call - but that won’t stop me from trying. For me, North Shields have, biblical catastrophes aside, done enough to at least go up. The questions still remain about the other four contenders, with the two South Tyneside teams looking particularly strong. From Allotment’s point of view, the season may hinge on three key fixtures; a rescheduled home tie against Heaton Stan, before away trips to both North Shields and Jarrow Roofing. If we win two of those three games, we will put ourselves in the box seat for promotion - and could put a serious dent in the hopes of our local neighbours. Of course, it’s not just about those crunch matches Allotment still need to pick up the points elsewhere, as neither the Roofers or the Star look like slipping up. We need to go into April with a foothold in the top three and, more importantly, some forward momentum. It will go right to the wire, but I reckon Celtic should be just about strong enough to hold out for a promotion spot - beneath Shields and alongside the Roofers.

hotting up - the promotion race

top scorers

player statistics

the mainstays

Sean Reid - 33 Ian Dunn - 31 (2) Paul Stoneman - 31

gk Liam Hudson - 12 Michael Bell - 8 Chris Douglas - 7

Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson

10 18 7 (2)

2 0 0

0 0 0

defence

the playmakers

yel

John Pendlebury Marc Dummett Chris Douglas Simon Wilthew Paul Stoneman Stephen Little Glenn Ford Roy Gordon

25 (2) 21 (1) 29 (2) 1 (1) 31 24 13 8 (8)

1 3 2 1 4 3 0 0

0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0

0 6 7 0 3 1 0 1

1 1 3 0 3 4 0 0

midfield

Sean Reid - 29 David Dormand - 13 Michael Bell - 9

apps

David Borley Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc Allen Sean Reid Bernat Roca Bart Oliver-Berga Kallum McGlen David Henderson Tony Lancaster Dean Lee Connor Graham

4 (1) 31 (2) 22 (5) 9 (7) 33 (1) 1 (2) 1 (3) 8 (7) 27 (1) 4 (6) 13 (7) 2 (7)

1 5 2 1 3 1 0 0 3 2 1 0

0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 8 0 4 0 0 2 7 1 0 2

0 6 9 1 29 0 1 1 0 1 3 0

attack

name

Liam Hudson David Dormand Lawrence McKenna Rob Nolan

26 (4) 26 (7) 8 (10) 0 (1)

4 1 0 0

Tow 00Law125Town137 0 0

2 0

4 0

Beal

Pendlebury

Little

Stoneman

Dunn

gls

average starting XI

the bad boys

Paul Stoneman - 4 1 Ian Dunn - 5 0 Michael Bell - 2 1

red asts

Hudson

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

Douglas

Henderson Reid

Bell

Dormand the player statistics

fixtures and results nl div 2 table

team North Shields

pl 29

w 22

d 4

l 3

gd pts 84 70

Roofing

45 65

WAC

31 62

Seaham

41 61

Nort & Stock

10 11 56

Heaton Stan

17 53

Northallerton 29

17 48

Birtley

10 10 47

Ch-le-Street

10 Darlo RA

11 Washington

14 -16 42

12 Tow Law

13 Willington

15 -18 36

14 Whickham

15 Thornaby

-3

16 South Shields 24

-5

17 Stokesley

18 -25 30

18 Alnwick

17 -26 29

19 Whitehaven

14 -24 28

20 Brandon

21 -43 21

21 Esh Winning

23 -70 20

22 Ryton

20 -42 19

-2

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 th Norton & Stockton 11 th Esh Winning 14 th Ryton & Crawcrook 18 st Penrith 21 th Darlington RA 28

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 th Birtley Town 12 th Tow Law Town 16 th Ryton & Crawcrook 19 th North Shields 26 th Northallerton Town 30

NL D2 NFA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2

A H H H A H H

L 3-1 L 2-1 W 2-1 W 3-2 W 4-2 D 0-0 W 3-0

NOVEMBER Brandon United 1st Willington 5th th Jarrow Roofing 8 th Chester-le-Street 12 th Washington 16 rd Chester-le-Street 23 th Northallerton Town 27 th Thornaby 30

NL D2 EA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 Lg Cup NL D2

A A H A A H H H

W 2-1 L 4-1 L 5-3 D 0-0 W 3-2 D 2-2 W 5-3 W 2-1

DECEMBER 10th South Shields 14th Willington 21st Seaham Red Star 28th Norton & Stockton

NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2

A H A H

D 2-2 W 3-0 D 2-2 W 5-0

JANUARY Tow Law Town 4th 10th Alnwick Town th Stokesley SC 18

NL D2 NL D2 NL D2

A H A

W 4-3 W 5-3 D 2-2

FEBRUARY 22nd Darlington RA 25th Marske United

NL D2 Lg Cup

H A

W 2-1 L 2-0

MARCH Whitehaven 1st Heaton Stannington 5th th Birtley Town 8 11th Whickham th Ryton & Crawcrook 15 19th South Shields nd Northallerton Town 22 28th Brandon United

NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2

H H A A H H A H

APRIL Jarrow Roofing 5th 12th Washington th North Shields 18 26th Thornaby

NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2

A H A A

fixtures, results, table

ee itt m m ing Co eet m pm 8

rottweiler’s notes

Rin g Bloo the dho un

19th Feb

Collect Morgan from Play Group School at 12 noon and we go out until tea time and she is no bother at all. Wow what a record, Arsenal have had 100 players sent off since Wenger took over, I wonder what the bugger (Mike Amos) has to say about that. Probably never seen them like Wenger nearly always says. In fairness though the bugger never seems to be at home so he has a better excuse than Wenger. Still they would make a good pair.

20th Feb

Morgan and I spend the afternoon at the pictures watching “Lego”. Morgan thoroughly enjoyed the picture though I have to admit Morgan woke me up half way through the picture, only because she wanted some sweets. Did anyone (aside from JA) notice on the latest fixture list sent out by Northern League Brandon have two games next Tuesday then a game on Wednesday, there will be some aching limbs and tired legs come Thursday morning.

21st Feb

Food for thought, four of our Premier League teams have played in Europe this week. Not one of them manages to score a goal. Is the Premier League best league in Europe? We have Morgan all day and her behaviour is examplary.

22 Feb

Match assessor Ashington v Billingham Synthonia and made very welcome by Ashington’s officials. Also had a good chat with Graham Craggs and arranged our first pre season friendly, hopefully we won’t play that friendly as we will be in Division One next season, we also gain another three points after our first game for five weeks. Complete paperwork from today’s game then settle down with a nice bottle of wine.

23rd Feb

Sunday is supposed to be a day of rest. Well this one certainly wasn’t. In the morning attend NFA Assessors Training Event. In the afternoon watch Newcastle v Aston Villa, complete my assessors report from yesterday then confirm with opponents and match officials for our five home fixtures for March.

24th Feb

We go to Newcastle so Barbara can have some retail therapy.

25th Feb

On Friday evening whilst watching Wales v France Rugby Union International I observed France No.8 applaud the referee when he was sent to the sin bin. Never ever seen dissent like that in rugby. Fair play to France they have dropped this player from their next game for his actions. Travel all the way to Marske and our hold habits surface again, dominate the first half when we should have been at least three goals up then come out in the second half and don’t play to our high standards.

26th Feb

Barbara goes off to Newcastle while I go to NFA and I am absolutely shocked to see referees reports from last night.Yes Hoggy got in to an altercation with the referee but not to the extent the reports claim. In the evening attend NFA Assessors training session for our new assessors. Bloodhound not well, lets hope he recovers soon.

West Allotment Celtic v Whitehaven

rottweiler’s notes

FOREST HALL YPC

Proud to support West Allotment Celtic Forest Hall Young Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teams.

Assistant HAVEN Manager

CELTIC Manager Paul STONEMAN Assistant Wilf KEILTY Coach Paul HOGG Physio Charlotte FERGUSON

MATCH OFFICIALS Referee S KYLE Assistants F ANDERSON C BEAL L BROWN

West Allotment Celtic Chris BANNON Ryan BEAL Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Marc DUMMETT Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Chris DOUGLAS Roy GORDON Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID David BORLEY Bernat ROCA Bart OLIVER-BERGA Matthew SLATER Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Connor GRAHAM Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Lawrence McKENNA Rob NOLAN

Whitehaven AFC Stuart PETTITT Brian MILLER Chris SMITH Kevin HOLLIDAY Arthur PEERS Jack HUNTER Kevin LAW Fraser KENNEDY Adam JOHNSTON Malcolm HOLLIDAY (c) Darren DONALD David DUSTIN Greg QUAYLE Kyle JENKINS Jonathan ROSEBY Scott PEARS Matty TYMON Kevin CONNELLY Craig ROBSON Fergus JEANS

WADE FINANCIAL

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