allotment
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14
‘keeping calm two first-choice ‘keepers, two injuries - and one timely deputy
Club Sponsor
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welcome 16
Club Officials
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President Chairman Vice-Chairman Secretary Treasurer Commercial
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contents
Committee
the history
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the squad
6
the backroom staff
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the last match
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the last meeting
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the match preview
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the visitors
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three’s no crowd
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the letter draw
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the onion bag
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on this day
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the player statistics
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fixtures, results, table
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rottweiler’s notes
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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
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.
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West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
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.
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 Jarrow Roofing
RB Chris Douglas LB Marc Dummett CM Alex Nisbet CM Michael Latimer CM Roy Gordon
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.
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.
CM Ian Dunn CM Marc Allen CM David Henderson CM Michael Bell CM Sean Reid
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.
CM Bernat Roca RM Kallum McGlen RM Tony Lancaster RM Bart Oliver-Berga LM Connor Graham
LM Dean Lee ST David Dormand ST Lawrence McKenna ST Liam Hudson ST Jed Findlay
Michael Latimer David Henderson CM Age: 26 CM Age: 31 Seasoned midfielder David Henderson Michael returns to rejoined the club last Allotment, having spent season, and the former time at Bedlington North Shields schemer Terriers, Newcastle provides another option Benfield and Washington. going forward through A tough tackler and a the middle. Henders highly versatile member is arguably one of the of the squad, capable of most skilful players in the playing at centre-half. 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
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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 Jarrow Roofing
Signed from Cramlington A promising young Town last February, Jed striker, Ryan was is a promising forward snapped up in trials for with plenty of attacking Allotment’s ‘A’ team, and potential. Having made a has already impressed for handful of appearances both the development last season, the striker side and the first team’s will be hoping to get respective pre-seasons. 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
5TH NOVEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO HALL LANE
Willington 4 West Allotment Celtic 1
T
HE Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup will not be returning to Whitley Park this year, as a largely second string Allotment side were comprehensively defeated by Willington in the First Round. The tie marked Allotment’s second trip down to Hall Lane in as many weeks, with the previous fixture postponed due to floodlight failure, but the hosts outshone a disjointed and much-changed Celtic team on the night. After thirty minutes of pressure and a pair of missed half-chances, Willington’s dominance belatedly paid off, courtesy of Aiden Goodey. The full-back’s free-kick from out wide travelled a full thirty
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yards, curling into the top corner via the underside of the bar. David Dormand almost prodded Allotment level, but the home side soon put daylight between themselves and their high-flying opponents from another set-piece. This time, a Willington corner was cleared only as far as Liam Whitworth, who turned in the box and rifled an unstoppable drive past Rodgerson. After the break, Willington as good as killed the game off with a third goal. Jason White burst down the right flank and delivered it on a plate for marauding captain Tom Lazonby, up from centre-half, to prod home. Dormand spurned another chance to get on the
West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
scoresheet, poking a superb Ian Dunn pass wide of goal, but it was the otherwise quiet Bartomeu Oliver-Berga who gave Celtic the faintest hope, slamming into the top corner from close range after a poor defensive header dropped into his path. Any chance of an unlikely fightback seemed to dissipate after Dormand’s rising effort clipped the top of the crossbar, and the home side went on to grab a fourth moments later - a carbon copy of the third, with the finish applied by David Pinkney. Celtic and their rested firstteam stars can now focus the majority of their attention on the league, with a promotion push already on the cards.
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the last meeting
23RD MARCH 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK
West Allotment Celtic 3 Jarrow Roofing 5
W
EST Allotment Celtic were left to rue costly individual errors as they went down 5-3 to promotion chasers Jarrow Roofing. Four early preventable goals in the first half all but consigned Allotment to their second defeat on the bounce, and a fifth just after the restart threatened to prompt a rout, but a gutsy fightback from the hosts salvaged some pride, if not a precious point. Third-placed Jarrow made their intentions known within the first five minutes. A floated cross into the area caught out Celtic’s Ryan Beal, allowing Anthony Myers to nod the ball over the stranded ‘keeper. Allotment went looking for an
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instant equaliser, Dormand’s tame effort easily saved by the ‘keeper, but the hosts didn’t have to wait long to restore parity. A sumptuous crossfield ball from Marc Dummett evadied the Jarrow back line and found Sean Reid, who stroked a half-volley beyond the reach of Carmichael. Richie McLoughlin’s Roofers looked dangerous on the break, and a rapid counter-attack restored the visitors’ lead. Rangy striker Liam McBryde surged forward from halfway, firing an unstoppable effort into the top corner from twenty yards out. Once again, Allotment came back at Jarrow, but a Dormand lob and a low Lee effort did not unduly trouble Carmichael.
West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
However, another avoidable error gifted the away side their third goal of the afternoon. Beal and Stephen Little clashed when going up for the same cross, and the ball fell to Myers, who fired home on the turn. Allotment survived a penalty appeal when Beal brought down an attacker in the box, but weren’t so fortunate when Dummett clipped Jordan Lartey in the area. Myers duly completed his hat-trick from the spot, leaving Allotment in a state of disarray at half-time. After some undoubtedly strong words in the dressing room, Celtic looked to get back into the tie as early as possible – but a fifth goal soon after the restart put paid to any hope of a second-half revival. A fine free-kick from McBryde once
again found the top corner, as the Roofers threatened to rout Celtic on their own turf. The hosts redoubled their efforts, and, led by the energetic Reid, set about staging an unlikely comeback. Dormand smashed a volley over the crossbar, whilst at the other end, a well-timed Stoneman challenge denied Dan Smart a surefire sixth. Bell and Dunn saw shots blocked mere yards from the line as Allotment peppered the Roofers’ goal, and they eventually got a consolatory reward, courtesy of Dormand’s magnificent dipping volley.
...in pictures
The impressive Reid almost heralded an unlikely comeback with his second of the afternoon, beating the offside trap and hammering beyond Carmichael. Jarrow spurned two gilt-edged counterattacking opportunities to make it six; David Carson pulling a one-on-one wide, before the ‘keeper deflected a goalbound Smart effort past his far post. The scoreline reflected Jarrow’s efficiency going forward, but costly mistakes at the back allowed the visitors to run up an unassailable lead in an otherwise close encounter. The hosts deserve some credit for their fightback, led by the mercurial Reid, but the second half performance will be scant consolation for Celtic after losing ground to their rivals. the last match
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the match preview
form: WDWWL
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
A
FTER surrendering the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup in timid fashion, West Allotment Celtic will be itching to return to winning ways when they turn their attention back to the league - and towards one of its most dangerous outfits. Allotment may have won the EA Cup in style last year, but a timid 4-1 defeat away at Willington in midweek prematurely ended any halfhearted hope of a successful defence of the trophy. The league remains the priority
JARROW ROOFING form: WWLDW
R
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ICHIE McLaughlin’s Roofers are yet to crash the promotion party, sitting six places and nine points adrift of third-placed Allotment. But don’t let the current table fool you - Jarrow are a force to be reckoned with. The much-fancied Tynesiders have played just 13 games, largely due to impressive FA Cup and FA Vase runs, and will certainly back themselves to make up the lost ground once the outstanding fixtures are played. The club will still be reeling
- a fact made evident by the number of players rested for the trip to County Durham on Tuesday night. However, there are a number of first-team members who will be unavailable for tonight’s clash. Goalkeepers Chris Bannon and Ryan Beal are both expected to be out, so Bob Rodgerson will continue to deputise. Glenn Ford and Tony Lancaster both remain out, whilst Dean Lee is not expected to feature. Likewise, Lawrence McKenna is sidelined with a knee injury sustained last Saturday at from the departure of joint manager Paul Bennett in late October, the man responsible for assembling a squad that largely comprises of his former players from Hebburn Town. Since Benno left, Jarrow have endured mixed results, with a 2-0 home win against Brandon and a 4-2 victory at Birtley in the EA Cup being tempered by an extra time defeat against Consett in the Durham Challenge Cup, and, most significantly, a 3-3 draw when hosting a rejuvenated Washington side, who looked to have secured all three points at one stage.
West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
Brandon. That said, many of the recharged regulars will be reinstated, with the likes of Sean Reid, Marc Dummett, John Pendlebury, David Henderson and Liam Hudson all coming back into the fold. West Allotment head into the game knowing that a win could take them up to second place in the table, just two points shy of Heaton Stannington, but will have to overcome a free-scoring Jarrow side first. The Roofers have conceded their fair share of goals thus far, but are often well-equipped to outscore most opponents, thanks to their devastating array of attacking talent. The four forwards have already scored 42 goals between them, a total buttressed by Paul Gardiner and Dean Nicholson’s strikes from midfield. The Roof is not quite on fire at the moment, but a big win against another serious promotion contender could reignite their own push for a place in Division One.
West Allotment’s Sean Reid currently tops the club’s scoring charts, having found the net 11 times in all competitions despite featuring as part of a midfield three, rather than as a lone forward. The 21year-old was rested for the trip to Willington, not even making a futile appearance from the bench in the closing stages, and should be fully fit this evening.
statattack 59
The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park
3.3
Roofing’s league goals per game
league meetings P 5 5 10
Nicknamed “Hitman” for a reason, Liam McBryde has bagged twelve goals and six assists in the fourteen games since his return from a short stint at Whitley Bay. The 26-year-old found the target in Roofing’s 4-2 win against Birtley Town, and will be looking to get on the scoresheet again tonight.
W 1 2 3
D 1 0 1
L 3 3 6
F 9 11 20
A 15 10 25
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No. of points separating the two teams last season
5
No. of goals put past Celtic in both league games last year
the preview
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jarrow roofing
the history T
HE main sponsor of Jarrow Roofing B.C.A. FC is Richard McLoughlin, the Managing Director of Jarrow Roofing Co. Richie has over 35-years experience in the roofing business, and has always been involved with football, initially as a Sunday League player with a local clubs around South Tyneside. Richie had a vision of sponsoring a club that could progress through Saturday football. Jarrow Roofing were formed ready for their inaugural season of 1987-88, beginning life in the South Tyne Senior League. When this league broke up at the end of their first season, Roofing moved to the Tyneside Amateur League, winning the Bill Dixon Cup and the League Challenge Shield. Roofing were also runners-up in both the league and the Gateshead Charity Shield. Richie sought the help of friend Brian Marshall, who was Chairman of the local Community Association in Boldon Colliery where there was a bit of land that perhaps could just hold a football ground. Richie began to use his weekends and borrowed machinery to build a ground after Brian had persuaded his Committee that it was a viable project.
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West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
The ground slowly took shape and the club moved to the Wearside League for season 199192 with a completed new ground at Boldon C.A. Sports Club. After finishing as runners-up the end of the first season, losing out on the title due to goal difference, Roofing were promoted to Division One. At the end of season 199596, the Roofers were runners-up in Division 2 having lost out on the title due to a three points deduction. With Marske United, the champions, not having the ground facilities in place, Roofing were promoted to the Northern League Division 2. After one season, Roofing were promoted to the Northern League Division 1, again finishing as runners-up, while the club also won the Craven Cup at the first attempt beating Shotton Comrades 4-0 on Tuesday 6 May 1997. During season 2004-05, the Roofers reached the semi-final of The FA Vase before losing 2-0 on aggregate to eventual winners Didcot Town. Jarrow Roofing remained in the Northern League Division 1 until a 22nd place finish during season 2007-08 brought the first relegation in the club’s history. In Division 2, Roofing finished 16th in 2008-09 but were promoted back to the Northern League Division 1 at the end of the 2009-10 season after finishing in third place. The 2010-11 season saw Jarrow Roofing maintain their place in Division 1 after finishing 19th, but were relegated the following season after finishing in 20th position. Roofing finished fourth, losing out on third place and automatic promotion by virtue of goal difference, in Division 2 at the end of the 201213 season. The Roofers were almost promoted in place of Ryhope CW, owing to the latter’s ineligility, but ultimately Sunderland RCA were granted a reprieve, keeping Jarrow in Division 2.
Nickname: The Roofers Ground: Boldon C.A. Sports Ground Chairperson: Richie McLoughlin
Rivals: Hebburn Town, South Shields Largest home crowd 2013/14: 75 v Seaham Red Star Distance travelled tonight (approx.): 10 miles
the players Dan Regan
Dan is a young goalkeeper with plenty of Northern League experience who signed from Hebburn Town at the start of the 2013/14 season.
Dan Kirkup
A defensive rock who can also play as a forward, Dan has turned out for Carlisle United, Southport and Clyde. Club captain who re-signed from South Tyneside neighbours Hebburn Town after a short spell at South Shields.
Ian Davison
Ian is a classy, experienced fullback who was player-manager during his final spell at Tow Law Town. He won the Northern League Division 1 with Durham City and was a runner-up while at Consett.
Ian Davison
Ian is a classy, experienced fullback who was player-manager during his final spell at Tow Law Town. He won the Northern League Division 1 with Durham City and was a runner-up while at Consett.
Dean Nicholson
A former West Brom midfielder, set-piece specialist and assistant manager Dean was an integral member of the Hebburn Town squad, and has also played for Boston United, Workington and Newcastle Benfield.
Scott Robson
Classy midfielder who turned out for Hebburn Town during the 2012/13 season, before transferring to Roofing for this campaign. Won the Northern League title as a 17-year-old with Dunston Fed.
Andy Appleby
Predatory forward who scored 36 goals for Crook Town during 2010/11 and played for Hartlepool United. Transferred to Roofing during 2012/13 but missed a number of games after breaking his leg.
Stephen Young
A long serving player who missed the start of the season due to injury. Anth can play anywhere down the middle of the pitch. A constant threat.
Won the Northern League Division 1 title with Newcastle Benfield, before topping Ashington’s scoring charts. After another spell at Benfield, Stephen signed for the Roofers in 2013/14.
Paul Gardiner
Liam McBryde
Anth Myers
Goalscoring midfielder Gardiner was renowned as Mr Consistent for Hebburn Town during his time there, twice winning Players’ Player of the Year. Moved to Roofing at the start of the 2013/14 season, and has been almost ever-present for the club.
Having averaged almost a goal a game in around 50 appearances for the Roofers, “Hitman” McBryde moved to Whitley Bay, soon returned to the other side of the river. The 26-yearold is one of the division’s most prolific finishers.
the visitors
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three’s no crowd When it comes to goalkeepers, Allotment have never had much luck.
Chris Bannon Sprained ankle ligaments 4-6 weeks Whilst in perpetual rotation with Ryan Beal, former Washington stopper Bannon picked up a fairly serious injury - whilst playing for his Sunday team. As if having to gingerly hobble around with a swollen purple ankle for a month isn’t bad enough, Chris looked set for a prolonged stint in between the sticks, adding further insult to a rather nastylooking injury.
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Fourteen months ago, they lost regular starter Aiden Ames to injury - and, days later, his deputy made a farcical exit, searching for the first team football that he was now almost certainly guaranteed. Three ‘keepers and six dropped points later, Celtic successfully filled the void. Now rivalled by Ryan Beal, the two top ‘keepers fought it out for the number one jersey - until they both succumbed to injury in disastrously perfect synchronisation. The second ‘keeping crisis was far less costly than the first, thanks in no small part to the latest in a long line of deputies. Bob Rodgerson beat off competition from former Sheffield Wednesday trainee Lee Wall, left-back Marc Dummett and midfielder Sean Reid for the coveted thirdchoice ‘keeper role, and duly made it his own. The 31-year-old’s solid performances were enough to
West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
convince the coaches to keep him on as cover for the next campaign. Despite bringing in experienced Northern League names like fellow ‘keeper Chris Bannon, Michael Latimer and Lawrence McKenna, the registration of the unassuming Alliance man would prove to be the shrewdest signing of the lot As the season entered October, it seemed too good to be true for Allotment. The arrival of another top stopper in Bannon set the goalkeeping carousel whirling again, with the new signing and the incumbent Beal alternating in net. Everything was going to plan; their performances were solid and their desire for playing time was satiated. With two first-choice, top-rate ‘keepers at the club, what could possibly go wrong? They could, of course, get injured at the same time. It had happened at Allotment twice before - in one season, no less - and, true to form, it was set to happen again. Just after Beal’s hamstring went, so too did Bannon’s ankle. Paul
Last season saw West Allotment go through eight different custodians in what seemed like a cyclical series of ‘keeping crises. With both first-choice goalies injured once more, will history repeat itself? Stoneman must have shattered some mirrors in the dressing room to incur such incredible misfortune. Every cloud has a silver lining, and Allotment’s was turning out for Percy Main - or, more accurately, was warming their bench. Having recovered from the breaking of his ribs, Bob found his spot occupied by 16-year-old Reece Dobie, who had impressed in his stead. The upshot of it all was that the fresh-faced teen would keep his place, and Bob would be free
to play at a higher level with Allotment on Saturdays. Not quite so unlucky after all. His first performances of the season have been assured, keeping clean sheets against the daunting forward lines of North Shields and Northallerton, before putting in solid shifts at Brandon and Willington (even if he did concede four in the latter). Bob is arguably one of the finest thirdchoice ‘keepers in the division, and the management will need to keep him out of harm’s way until the regulars recover. Walk around ladders rather than under them; flee from the presence of dark streetfaring felines; take extra care when seasoning your meals. And, perhaps the most dangerous portent of all, stay well away from that dreaded five-aside pitch.
Image: Peter Bainbridge
Ryan Beal Injured hamstring Unknown Like Aiden Ames before him, Ryan picked up a knock playing five-a-side. The niggling pull was rested, but reared up once more in the warm-up prior to the Birtley Town match. He seemed to have made a speedy return, tending goal when former club North Shields came to Whitley Park. But, after making two tremendous saves to keep the scores tied, he had to be replaced at half-time. No longer just a niggle, Beal is well and truly hamstrung. three’s no crowd
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THREE MILES WEST • Paul Stoneman discusses his professional career - and the moment he almost left Allotment • Sean Reid on his future in the game • Celtic’s mouthwatering tie against Newcastle United Reserves
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5th November 2013 7 winners of £115 each
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20
West Allotment Celtic v North Northern Shields League Division Two
29th March 2013
20
the onion bag Craig Dobson’s take on the last seven days in the Allotment garden
S
OMETIMES, football is about more than just kicking an imitation pigskin around a patch of grass in pleasant tiki-taka triangles. When the darkness creeps in and the season takes hold, it becomes about survival, braving the elements and the inhabitants - in a desperate fight for life (or, in this case, three points / cup progression). Over four days, Allotment’s squad were twice plucked from their comfortable surroundings at Whitley Park and dropped into the middle of County Durham. The players made their way to Brandon in uneasy daylight - a small mercy that would soon be revoked after twenty minutes of play. The Welfare Ground, for all its charms, is precariously placed upon what feels like a hilltop, brutally exposed to everything that Mother Nature could throw at them. West Allotment’s travelling foragers had already experienced the worst that Brandon had to offer, enduring what can only be described as a perfect storm on two occasions last year. The weather was as quiet as the handful of supporters in the opening ten
minutes, but soon made itself heard, rattling over the top of the moors and onto the roof of the main stand. What followed was standard Brandon fare: rain that soaked to the skin before you’d even noticed, enough wind to violently rock the floodlights to and fro. It was the only onslaught that Celtic would have to face on the day. Michael Bell put the windswept visitors ahead within a minute, only for United to equalise against the run of play when Allotment were briefly down to ten. It was the away side who threw everything short of the dugout at their hosts, and were duly rewarded in the dying moments with a late winner, courtesy of Sean Reid. The trip to Willington on the following Tuesday required the same level of commitment - less Gareth Bale, more Bear Grylls. The newlypromoted side were successfully outbullied by Allotment in the league fixture, and the fourteen men who dared to venture back to Hall Lane could be forgiven for expecting a similarly physical contest. Two new signings who were perhaps unaware of their reputation - and, perhaps, the
Northern League in general, were the Spaniards. After ninety bruising and demoralising minutes in County Durham, they were well acquainted with the rough and tumble of English football. To their credit, Willington outplayed and outfought Allotment, who were as collectively timid on the night as they were hardy on Saturday. The side, consisting of a number of squad players - many in foreign positions - went down 4-1 on another frosty evening, with Oliver-Berga’s first goal the only highlight. Tonight, Allotment will be happy to be back on their own patch. With warm dressing rooms and plenty of tea on tap, it ought to be a more comfortable night for Celtic even if the opposition is no less fearsome.
goal of the week
man of the week
Sean Reid’s last-gasp run and strike at Brandon on Saturday has the beating of Tom OliverBerga’s close-range consolation at Willington.
Michael Bell was in superb form on Saturday, deservedly getting on the scoresheet, and showed plenty of bottle on Tuesday eve.
West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
the onion bag
21
on this day... 1952 St.Columba’s visited the Farm Ground for an NFA Amateur Cup-tie and made the short journey home rueing a 4-2 defeat. Brown (2), Clough and Barnes were on target for Allotment.
1969 One week after drawing one-all in the NFA Minor Cup at Backworth, Allotment and Newbiggin Hall Athletic still could not be parted, this time after sharing eight goals. Wilson (2), Bell and Taylor were the Celtic scorers. Allotment finally won through seven days later, winning the second replay 2-1 at Backworth.
1976 A strike from Benny Williams was not enough as Whickham Sports won a League Cup-tie by three goals to one at Backworth.
1980 In the middle of a sequence of thirteen league games without defeat, Allotment went nap away to Dixon Sports in the Northern Amateur League. Greener (2), Williams, Appleyard and Burdis were the marksmen.
22
West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history
1986 One of the most memorable results in Allotment’s history was recorded, as Fleetwood Town were beaten in the FA Vase at Backworth. Fleetwood were recent finalists in the competition but were outfought and outplayed by a superb home side.Yet, despite their domination of the play, Allotment were unable to score the decisive goal in blustery conditions and the match remained goal-free at ninety minutes. However, it took just a further sixty seconds for the deadlock to be broken, with Keith Jelley setting up Paul Lemon to slot the ball home. With Dave Taylor and Ian Curle mastering the opposing forwards, an equaliser never looked likely and the victory was confirmed in the second period of extra-time when Chris Kelly released Paul Appleby and he kept his nerve to beat the keeper and double Allotment’s advantage. Ian Chater produced an amazing double-save in the dying minutes to deny Fleetwood even a “consolation” goal.
2003 Struggling Spittal Rovers were the visitors to Whitley Park in a Northern Alliance encounter and gave a very good account of themselves against an Allotment outfit heading for promotion to the Northern League. Andy Bowman gave the home side the lead late in the first half but a thunderous free-kick by Keith Ruddick restored parity within a minute. Bowman grabbed his second after the interval to settle Celtic’s nerves but Spittal continued to pose problems until they were hit by a double blast in the dying moments. Alex Benjamin headed Allotment’s third and substitute Christen Priest scored a fourth almost immediately to give the scoreline a somewhat flattering slant.
2008
Morpeth Town were the visitors to Whitley Park and returned home with all three points after edging to victory by the odd goal in three; David Colvin’s strike in vain for Allotment.
on this day
23
top scorers
player statistics yel
Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson
9 9 4 (1)
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
16 (2) 13 (1) 16 (2) 1 (1) 18 12 2 (3) 10 2 5 (5)
1 2 1 1 2 1 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0
0 1 3 0 3 1 1 0 0 1
1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0
midfield
Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc Allen Sean Reid Bernat Roca Bart Oliver-Berga Kallum McGlen David Henderson Tony Lancaster Dean Lee Connor Graham
20 (1) 11 (3) 6 (5) 18 (1) 1 1 (1) 8 (6) 13 (1) 0 (2) 12 1 (4)
3 0 1 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 0
0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 4 0 2 0 0 2 2 0 0 0
6 3 1 11 0 1 1 0 0 3 0
Liam Hudson David Dormand Lawrence McKenna
13 (3) 14 (5) 8 (8)
1 0 0
0 0
2 2
6 4
gk
apps
attack
name
the playmakers
Liam Hudson - 9 Michael Bell - 4 Chris Douglas - 3
the mainstays
Ian Dunn - 20 Sean Reid - 18 Paul Stoneman - 18
defence
Sean Reid - 11 Ian Dunn - 6 David Dormand - 6
Tow 0Law 9Town6
Beal
Pendlebury
Little
Stoneman
Dunn
24
gls
average starting XI
the bad boys
Paul Stoneman - 1 1 Michael Bell - 0 1 Alex Nisbet - 0 1
red asts
Hudson
West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
Douglas
Henderson Reid
Lee
Dormand the player statistics
fixtures and results nl div 2 table
1
team Heaton Stan
pl 19
w 13
d 2
l 4
gd pts 17 41
2
Northallerton 21
11
4
6
19 37
3
WAC
16
11
3
2
19 36
4
North Shields
16
10
4
2
43 34
5
Seaham
17
10
1
6
19 31
6
Nort & Stock
19
8
7
4
9
7
Tow Law
19
9
3
7
10 30
8
Darlo RA
18
8
4
6
7
9
Jarrow
13
8
3
2
22 27
10 Birtley
16
8
3
5
10 27
11 Ch-le-Street
16
7
4
5
1
25
12 Willington
17
7
4
6
-2
25
13 Whickham
17
7
3
7
4
24
14 Stokesley
31 28
19
6
4
9
-12 22
15 South Shields 15
5
6
4
-4
16 Whitehaven
16
5
2
9
-17 17
17 Brandon
21
5
2
14 -22 17
18 Thornaby
18
4
4
10 -10 16
19 Alnwick
16
4
3
9
20 Washington
17
4
2
11 -28 14
21 Esh Winning
18
3
1
14 -43 10
22 Ryton
18
2
3
13 -26
21
-16 15
OFFICIAL NORTHERN LEAGUE SPONSORS
9
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 26th North Shields 30th Northallerton Town
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 Jarrow Roofing 8th 12th Chester-le-Street 16th Washington 23rd Chester-le-Street 27th Northallerton Town 30th Thornaby
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
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
A
TBD
South Shields
fixtures, results, table
25
ee itt m m ing Co eet m pm 8
31st Oct
rottweiler’s notes
Rin g Bloo the dho un
d!
Another quiet day today, especially with Barbara being at work.
1st Nov
The bloodhound drops us off at Central Station and I am gutted. The train arrives at Kings Cross 37 minutes late. I had used my loyalty points so we could both travel free; if we had’ve paid, then we would have been refunded our fares and I would still have had my loyalty points.You are not entitled to anything back when travelling on your loyalty points.
2nd Nov
Barbara goes in the Liverpool end for the game at Arsenal and thanks to Mick McDonough I have a complimentary ticket. After the game, both Barbara and I sample Arsenal’s hospitality. Aside from the free food and drink, it also allows you to travel back from Holloway Tube Station which reopened at 20.30 after the crowd has been transported from Arsenal Tube Station, which is just over a ten minute walk from the ground.
3rd Nov
I enjoyed reading the lead story in today’s Sunday Sun about the 16 year old yob in prison for his behaviour at last season’s derby and how frightened he is. About time we had more of these yobs inside. Well done the judge who sent him down.
4th Nov
Take Morgan to school, only to discover school closed due to no central heating. In the afternoon we go to the pictures. Match assessor at Middlesbrough U21 v Liverpool U21 and Barbara decides it is too cold for her to go.Very wise decision as it was absolutely freezing. Badly let down by the bloodhound. Half time whistle goes and Alex dashes off for a cup of tea and I sit writing my notes up. When I finish go into hospitality area and discover bloodhound hasn’t got me a cuppa - which he always does whenever he comes with me. Bloodhound thought I wasn’t going for a cuppa. Freezing cold, and he thought I was just going to sit in the cold! Anyway, massive queue full of leeches (scouts) and by the time I get to the front, there’s no tea left. Not amused at all. Bloodhound did apologise. I should have made the bugger walk home.
5th Nov
Dragged off shopping and don’t get my reports from last night’s game finished. In the evening, we are at Willington and the two lads from Majorca make their debuts. Tom scores a goal and Bart gets booked. Freezing cold, no heating in dressing rooms and one shower working - welcome to the world (Northern League) of proper football. God knows what the thoughts of the two lads were. Craig will have to interview them if they ever come back.
26
West Allotment Celtic v Jarrow Roofing
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.
ROOFING Manager Richie McLAUGHLIN Assistant Dean NICHOLSON Physio Shaunagh LILLIE
CELTIC Manager Paul STONEMAN Assistant Wilf KEILTY Coach Paul HOGG Physio Charlotte FERGUSON
MATCH OFFICIALS Referee T CHAMBERS Assistants B JOHNSON J LEE
West Allotment Celtic Chris BANNON Ryan BEAL Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Marc DUMMETT Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Simon WILTHEW Chris DOUGLAS Michael LATIMER Roy GORDON Alex NISBET Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID Bernat ROCA Bart OLIVER-BERGA Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Connor GRAHAM Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Lawrence McKENNA Jed FNDLAY
Follow us @wacfc
Jarrow Roofing B.C.A. Dan REGAN Martin HUNTER Ian DIXON Ian DAVISON Kieron McDONALD Daniel KIRKUP Kevin LEIGHTON Jeff FORSYTH Martyn McGONIGAL Jack STANLEY Danny CARSON Gilberto CHAPIM Paul GARDINER Scott ROBSON Darren REAY David BORLEY Jamie MARSHALL Anthony MYERS Dean NICHOLSON Ian GRAHAM Stuart NICHOLSON Stephen YOUNG Andy APPLEBY Liam McBRYDE
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