allotment
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14
chris douglas the wide man on Celtic’s recent form
Club Sponsor
THOMAS POTTER
ryton & crawcrook BROOKS MILESON MEMORIAL LEAGUE CUP WEDNESDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER 2013
THOMAS POTTER Stockist and distributor of fastenings, nuts, bolts, screws, flanges, manufacturing hose fittings and special plate flanges.
Unit 3J, Admiral Business Park, Nelson Way, Cramlington, NE23 1WG
Tel: 01670 591 100
www.thomaspotter.com MAIN SPONSORS OF WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
18
welcome 16
Club Officials
14
President Chairman Vice-Chairman Secretary Treasurer Commercial
12
contents
Committee
the history
4
the squad
6
the backroom staff
9
Press Officer Photographer
Alex Smailes Roland Mather Jimmy Wilson Ted Ilderton John Alexander Jonny Thompson David Dodds Paul Mason Above, plus Al Liddle,Michael Wilson, Les Scott, Kath Orr, Harry Bell, Stephen Allott, Richie Marks Craig Dobson Graeme Jackson
the last match
10
the last meeting
12
the preview
14
the visitors
16
the feature
18
on this day
20
the fa vase trip
21
Selected Club Honours
the onion bag
23
the player statistics
24
fixtures, results, table
25
rottweiler’s notes
26
the squads
28
1987, 1991, 1992, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004 Northern League D2 champions 2005 NFA Amateur Cup winners 1957, 1975 NFA Benevolent Bowl winners 1993 Craven Cup winners 2005 Ernest Armstrong Mem. Cup winners 2013
Backroom Staff Manager Assistant Manager First Team Coach Physio
Paul Stoneman Wilf Kielty Paul Hogg Charlotte Ferguson
Northern Alliance champions
eighty-five Stephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour
from creation to contenders
...and the decade of decline
West Allotment Celtic were formed in 1928, the culmination of a merger between West Allotment Primitive Methodists and West Allotment Juniors. After moving to the newly-created Tynemouth & District League in 1935, the club began to grow in stature. The club had to face Whitley Bay & Monkseaton Reserves in a play-off for the title, but unfortunately, the decider went the way of the seasiders. Remarkably, Allotment also finished in a play-off position in the following two seasons – and, in both cases, had to settle for a runner-up spot.
The sixties started promisingly enough, as Allotment looked to build on their previous successes. The club finished as runners-up in the Northern Amateur League in 1960, and were consecutive Minor Cup finalists in 1960 and 1961.
changing leagues, sheds and times In 1938, the club joined the Second Division of the Northern Amateur League. Now playing at the aptly-named Farm Ground, fans helped to dismantle a cowshed in Heaton and move it, piece by piece, to West Allotment, where it was reassembled at the ground. The shed was not for spectators – it served as the players’ changing facilities! The club earned instant promotion (after a play-off, such is club tradition), but World War II put a stop to any further progress.
a succession of successes... The club recommenced operations in 1946/47 and enjoyed an unprecedented run of success from the mid-fifties onwards. Allotment won the championship for four consecutive seasons between 1956 and 1960, along with the NFA Amateur Cup in 1957 and the NFA Minor Cup in 1958.
4
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,
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
years in the making of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations... who averaged almost one goal a game in his 400 appearances for the club. Williams was ably supported by a talented and hungry squad, and, with strength in depth, Allotment were always considered title contenders. However, the championship remained tantalisingly out of reach until yet another play-off tie in 1982. Allotment finally won the coveted title, defeating Annitsford Welfare by the odd goal in seven.
Alliance titles, never finishing lower than sixth. Terry Mitchell and Brian Latty built upon Ken Scott and Billy Hays’ consecutive Alliance league titles, leading Allotment into the Northern League.
the modern day
When Celtic retained the title with relative ease the following season, the decision was taken to move up a tier for the first time since 1938.
Having acted as tenants at Hillheads in Whitley Bay since 1995, the club set out to find a new home, and found it in Benton. In 2001, the club moved to Whitley Park, also known as the Blue Flames Sports Ground. The ground is well-known as one of the best kept pitches in the Northern League, and also serves as the headquarters of the Northumberland FA.
the colossus of the alliance In 1983, Allotment made its debut in both the Northern Alliance and the FA Vase. The first honour of the period arrived just one season later, as Allotment dispatched Ponteland United in the Alliance Challenge Cup Final. This success was followed up two seasons later by the first of Celtic’s eight Alliance titles. In 1987, West Allotment emerged victorious from two nail-biting play-off games against Gosforth St. Nicholas, ushering in a wave of success not enjoyed at the club since the fifties. Throughout this period, Celtic won seven further Northern
The club earned promotion from Division Two as champions, losing just twice throughout the entire 2004/05 season. After six seasons of holding their own against the Northern League’s top tier, Allotment slipped back down a league. The current crop have gone some way to restoring success at Allotment, winning the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup last May, and will be aiming for those promotion places this season. the history
5
the squad
Chris Bannon GK Age: 26 Formerly of Washington and Hebburn Town, popular and reliable ‘keeper Chris returns to Allotment for a second stint between the sticks, and will jostle with Ryan Beal for the number one jersey.
Glenn Ford CB Age: 29 Glenn rejoined the club during the 2012/13 season, making a handful of solid appearances. Having committed for this coming season, fans can expect to see much more of Glenn and his defensive abilities.
6
Ryan Beal GK Age: 25 An excellent shot stopper, Ryan featured extensively in last season’s cup-winning campaign, and will look to consolidate his place with similarly strong performances this season.
GK Chris Bannon GK Ryan Beal GK Bob Rodgerson
CB Simon Wilthew CB Glenn Ford CB Stephen Little CB Paul Stoneman RB John Pendlebury
Bob Rodgerson Stephen Little GK Age: 31 CB Age: 26 A Percy Main Amateurs The ex-Annfield Plain regular, Bob performed and Killingworth stopper admirably when filling shone at the back for in during a goalkeeping Allotment last season, crisis towards the back putting in a series of end of last season, and superlative defensive has registered once again showings, earning the to be our third choice Player’s Player of the Year ‘keeper. Award in the process.
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 Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
RB Chris Douglas LB Marc Dummett CM Michael Latimer CM Roy Gordon CM Ian Dunn
CM Marc Allen CM David Henderson CM Michael Bell CM Sean Reid RM Kallum McGlen
RM Tony Lancaster LM Dean Lee ST David Dormand ST Lawrence McKenna ST Liam Hudson
Marc Dummett LB Age: 26 The former Ponteland United and Dunston fullback has proven to be an asset to the club in both defence and attack. His crossing ability in both regular play and from set-pieces is second to none.
Roy Gordon CM Age: 31 Roy rejoins Celtic for a second spell, having last played for the club during the 2011/12 season. Able to play in a number of positions, the experienced utility man has also turned out for North Shields, Consett and Annfield Plain.
Michael Latimer David Henderson CM Age: 26 CM Age: 28 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.
Michael Bell CM Age: 22 Brimming with potential, “Belly” won the Under-19 National Schools Cup with Northumberland and has also represented Ryton. Bell is unbeatable in the air, and can also operate on the wing and as a supporting striker.
ST Jed Findlay ST Ryan Anderson
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
7
the squad
Kallum McGlen RM Age: 21 A former Montagu & North Fenham favourite, Kallum features on the right hand side of midfield, where his energy and technique often causes problems for opposing full-backs.
Liam Hudson ST Age: 25
Tony Lancaster RM Age: 28
Dean Lee LM Age: 30
David Dormand ST Age: 25
Signed from Wark in March 2011. Tony struggled with injuries last term, but will hope to be back to his pacy, dangerous best this season. Tony can also operate as a wholly competent right-back.
A winger with the scoring nous of a striker, the former North Shields man has all of the tools required to strike fear into the hearts of defenders. One of Celtic’s most prolific threats going forward.
David’s prolific record precedes him, and the former Morpeth forward has already replicated his goalscoring form since joining Celtic, topping the charts with 30 goals. A clinical poacher and a hard worker up front.
Lawrence McKenna ST Age: 25
Jed Findlay ST Age: 24
Ryan Anderson ST Age: 18
Another former Ryton Lawrence is wellforward, army soldier travelled, having topped Liam is capable of the scoring charts for pressuring his opposite Whickham, before going numbers into submission on to play for Bedlington with his strength and high Terriers and Newcastle work rate. “Hud” can Benfield. Is known to be also be deployed on the a deadly finisher in the right wing. division.
8
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.
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
the squad
the backroom staff
Paul Stoneman Player/Manager
Wilf Kielty Assistant Manager
Paul Hogg First Team Coach
Charlotte Ferguson Physiotherapist
The stalwart centre-half has played for Blackpool, Colchester United and Halifax Town. Despite turning 40 last year, ‘Stona’ was ever-present last season, remaining unbeatable in the air and impervious in the tackle.
Right-hand man Wilf has been around the local non-league scene for many years, both as a player and in a management role, giving notable service to North Shields as manager for several seasons.
The UEFA-licensed coach is held in very high regard at North Shields, having played, coached and managed there for over a decade. Paul has also managed Annfield Plain, and is working with the Newcastle United Foundation.
Charlotte is in her final year of her Physiotherapy studies at Northumbria University, and is currently on her final placement at the RVI. She is also a qualified sports masseur.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS LIMITED Advice - Design - Manufacture - Installation - Commission - Service - Repair
Specialists in surface and waste water management
Proud sponsors of West Allotment player-manager
Paul Stoneman the backroom staff
9
the last match
14TH SEPTEMBER 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK
West Allotment Celtic 1 Esh Winning 1
A
HOST of chances spurned in the first half, and an own goal late in the second, consigned West Allotment Celtic to their second draw in four days, as Esh Winning snatched a 1-1 draw at Whitley Park. The Stags’ Lewis Herron blazed an early effort over, before Lee Guthrie’s chipped shot sailed just wide of the far post. As they so often do, Allotment started even brighter than their opponents, playing slick ten yard passes and moving the ball around comfortably in the final third. Michael Bell sliced their first chance wide, failing to connect with Dormand’s unintentional knockdown, before Esh’s Guthrie was denied a shot at goal only by
10
the sliding Simon Wilthew. Esh looked suspect at the back, and were soon the orchestrators of their own downfall. A woefully short backpass to Ryan Graham was collected by Dormand, who could not cleanly round the ‘keeper on his first attempt, but fired into the back of the net the second time around. The forward was less fortunate moments later, getting by Graham in similar circumstances but firing a narrow effort into the side netting. Pendlebury and Henderson both saw shots blocked, and a wild Sean Reid strike flew harmlessly wide, as Allotment played some of their most positive football.
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
Esh’s only chance to level was a controversial one that went against the unwritten rules of fair play, as Guthrie ignored calls to put the ball out for an injury, but was forced wide by Beal and stopped on the line by Ford. Thereafter, West Allotment should have been at least two clear at the interval, but their goalscorer’s profligacy proved costly. The unmarked Dormand lashed a pre-emptive half-volley over when he had time to control it, before failing to beat Graham in another one-on-one scenario. Somewhat predictably, Celtic failed to craft the same number of goalscoring opportunities when they returned for the
second half. Beal kept out a shot from substitute Anth Rodgerson with a fine low stop to his right, but Allotment remained comfortable leaders.
...in pictures
The ante was upped by the Stags’ reaction to what they erroneously believed to be a stamp from the captain, resulting in a full-scale shoving match between the majority of the outfield players. The perceived injustice fired up Esh, who went close through Herron’s vicious strike. The Allotment ‘keeper was called into action again soon after, getting a hand to Wilthew’s wayward header, before Ford once again cleared off the line. Beal looked to have finally been beaten with less than ten minutes remaining, as Stephenson’s neat touch rounded the ‘keeper - but Wilthew courageously blocked the goalbound strike. The same player should have levelled moments later after another Rodgerson effort was parried into his path, but he blazed over with the goal at his mercy. Esh Winning continued to press, peppering the goal with cross after cross - and finally got their reward, albeit with their least dangerous ball into the area. A deep delivery looked to be floating towards Beal, but the unchallenged Wilthew rose to head the ball beyond his stranded ‘keeper, shattering Allotment’s wavering resolve. the last match
11
the last meeting
2ND FEBRUARY 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO KINGSLEY PARK STADIUM
Ryton & Crawcrook Albion 0 West Allotment Celtic 0
W
EST Allotment Celtic had to settle for a point at Ryton & Crawcrook Albion, despite dominating proceedings on their opponent’s turf.
should still have taken the lead prior to the interval, but Stephen Little’s close-range tap-in was wrongly adjudged as offside, despite David Hills lying prostrate on the line.
A quiet game on a difficult pitch exploded into life after half an hour. Goalkeeper John Mordey kept Sean Reid at bay when the latter was clean through on goal, before the forward had a strike disallowed for offside and another saved by the ‘keeper’s legs.
Mordey was once again the hero for Albion in the second half, as he twice denied former Albion forward Reid with two fine saves, before parrying away Lee’s latest effort. When the ‘keeper was beaten by a Little header, a covering defender was there to hack it off the line, whilst Dormand and Reid spurned further chances to put the dominant visitors ahead.
The best chance was afforded to Dean Lee from twelve yards out, after the winger was hauled down in the area. The winger dusted himself down, but his central penalty effort was too close to Mordey. Despite the miss, Allotment
12
As the clock ran down and Allotment spurned chance after chance, Ryton & Crawcrook sensed their chance to seize an unlikely and somewhat
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
undeserving winner. Lawrence McKenna drove a speculative effort straight into the arms of Aiden Ames, and a valiant last-ditch tackle from the impenetrable Little prevented the forward from tucking home a close-range effort. In the final moments, Ryton should have snatched the win from under Allotment’s noses, but, much like their fellow Tynesiders, they were guilty of serious profligacy. Centrehalf Hills headed wide from a corner, before Liam McNamara broke clear of the back four - only to snatch at his shot, blazing well over the crossbar. Somehow, the game remained goalless, with Celtic more disappointed with the stalemate than their hosts. the last meeting
today’s ball sponsor Norman Thompson thank you for your support
the letter draw M
I
S
3rd September 2013 16 winners of £50 each
For only £1 per draw, you choose 5 letters. 3 different letters are drawn and if your letters match the ones drawn you receive a share of the £800 jackpot – the jackpot is shared between everyone who has chosen the winning letters. The jackpot must be won every week. To play, simply hand the complete the form below and hand it to a club official. -----------------------------------CUT HERE----CUT HERE----CUT HERE--------------------------------Name:
Contact number:
What 5 letters would you like? Choose each letter only once.
the pre-match preview
RYTON & CRAWCROOK ALBION form: LLLLL
form: WWWDD
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
A
14
NOTHER game, another draw - but West Allotment Celtic can put their recent league disappointment behind them, and turn their attention towards the Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup. Following on from the frustrating 3-3 draw at Norton & Stockton, it was much the same story on Saturday, as another strong (if profligate) showing in the first half did not carry over into the second, and Esh Winning grabbed a point at the death.
L
AST Saturday, Esh Winning ended a seven-match losing streak at Whitley Park - and Ryton will hope to emulate that feat this evening, albeit with a win rather than a draw. In doing so, the Albion could ensure progression to the Second Round of the League Cup - although extra time and the dreaded penalty shootout are distinct possibilities, if Allotment’s recent form is anything to go by. The Tyneside outfit have endured a very difficult start
If tonight’s visitors Ryton & Crawcrook Albion wish to make tracks in the League Cup, they will have to beat the partnership of Paul Stoneman and Stephen Little at the back, as the latter returns to fitness following double hernia surgery. However, Glenn Ford will miss out, undergoing an operation on a hernia of his own. Striker Lawrence McKenna is expected to deputise in David Dormand’s absence, whilst the midfield trio could also be freshened up, with to the season, taking just one point from their opening ten games - a 2-2 draw on the road against Stokesley Sports Club. Striker Lee Peacock grabbed a brace that day, but the goals - and the points - have since dried up across the water. Three weeks on, and John Wilson’s new-look side have lost their last seven games. In some matches, against Darlington R.A., Whitehaven and South Shields, their opponents emerged victorious by the narrowest of margins. Others, against strong teams such as North Shields, Whickham
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
Marc Allen and Michael Latimer both waiting in the wings. Likewise, Chris Douglas may be promoted from the bench, whilst Marc Dummett should return to his customary left-back role after being omitted from the squad at the weekend. If the side can continue to dominate the opening forty-five minutes, and, more importantly, maintain that level of performance after the interval, West Allotment Celtic should progress to the next round - and put their second half hoodoo firmly behind them. and Northallerton, were somewhat more convincing defeats. The squad has been bolstered in recent days by the arrival of no fewer than four signings from South Shields, with defenders Osiama Tito Davidson and Patrick Jackson, Dutch midfielder Joe Danquah and strong centre-forward Shaun Edwards arriving through the gates at Kingsley Park Stadium. The travelling Albion fans will hope that the quartet of promising signings can propel their side to its first victory of the 2013/14 campaign.
At 40, “Stona� is almost the same age as the two players alongside him in the image below - but he has played every game for Celtic this season thus far. The experience of a former professional counts for an awful lot in the Northern League - particularly when regular centre-half Glenn Ford is unavailable to play.
statattack 88
The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park
28
No. of points separating the two teams last season
previous meetings P 13 15 28
Young defenders Callum Turnbull and David Below are two of the players retained by the Albion for the 2013/14 campaign. 23-year-old centre-half Callum was a first-team regular for Ryton last season, as was fullback and club captain Below, also just 23 years of age. The pairing have more experience than their youthfulness would suggest.
W 11 8 19
D 1 4 5
L 1 3 4
F 39 26 65
A 12 19 31
No. of Celtic attackers that have played for Ryton
4 25
No. of goals conceded by Albion thus far
the preview
15
ryton & crawcrook albion
the history S
HORTLY after the start of the 1970 - 71 football season John Oliver, the club’s first Secretary, and Les Robson were approached to see if a club could be formed quickly to take over the fixtures of Prudhoe and West Wylam Co-op who had just resigned from the Northern Combination League. After securing a loan from Ryton Social Club of £12 / 10 shillings John and Les approached local Councillor Leo Murray and obtained permission to play at Stargate. Ryton played their first Northern Combination League game, a 3-3 draw, against works team Parsons Athletic on Saturday 17th October 1970. The mid 1980’s saw the club transfer to Clara Vale for their home games while raising much needed revenue in the Crawcrook Social Club, the Lambs Arms as well as Ryton Social Club. During this period, Ryton won the Prudhoe Hospital Cup twice, the Northern Combination League Cup as well as the Durham County Trophy. Following the 1988 amalgamation of the Northern Alliance, the Northern Combination
16
and the Northern Amateur Leagues into three divisions, Ryton were allocated a position in the First Division of the newly structured Northern Football Alliance League, winning that title in 1997, thus securing promotion to the Premier Division. The club remained there until gaining promotion to the Northern League at the end of the 2004– 05 season. 2005-06 marked their first season in the Northern League, finishing a respectable 11th place in Division Two, followed by a 12th place finish in 2006-07, then a commendable 3rd place in 2007-08. The latter gained Albion promotion to Division One for the 2008-09 season, where they finished a very creditable 10th place. Unfortunately, that was where the upward progress ended, as the following season Ryton finished 17th. Then came the infamous 2010-11 season which saw the club finish bottom with just 8 points, receiving a whole host of league and cup drubbings on the way, including Shildon beating them 10-0 and 7-0 in the league, and losing 8-0 at home to South Shields in the Vase. Coupled with the fact that their facilities are based in Crawcrook, and wishing to involve the local community further, the club sought, and was subsequently granted permission by The Durham Football Association, to change our name to Ryton & Crawcrook Albion F.C. at the commencement of the 2011-12 campaign, in which they finished 18th in their first season back in the Second Division. Last season saw a slight improvement in fortunes with a 14th placed finish. Albion’s new-look outfit, under the guidance of manager John Wilson and his team - also relatively new to the club - hope to continue that progression this coming season.
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
Nickname: The Albion Ground: Kingsley Park Chairman: Tony Tailford
Rivals: Prudhoe Town, Whickham Largest home crowd 2013/14: 86 v North Shields Distance travelled tonight (approx.): 20 miles
the players David Below
The 23-year-old club captain was an almost ever-present last season. David is a local lad who has become a commanding defender and tough tackler.
Leigh Shickle
Pacy defender Shickle joined the club in pre-season, having previously played for Wideopen & District, and is renowned for his heading ability.
Adam Chrostowski
18-year-old Chrostowski was one of the stars of Albion’s under-18 team - and the defensive prospect has made a seamless transition to the senior game.
Callum Turnbull
Callum provides a cool head in the heart of defence, and can operate as a target man if required.
Osiama Tito Davidson The former South Shields centre-half, 22, chose to sign for Ryton this month over Workington.
Lee McGill
Signed from Gateshead Leam Rangers, Lee is capable of doing the donkey work in central midfield.
Paul Clarke
The enigmatic midfielder occasionally shows flashes of brilliance in the middle of the park, and formerly did so for Birtley Town.
Michael Pooley
Formerly of Northern Alliance side Heddon, 25-year-old Pooley has earned his place in the centre of midfield since signing in June.
Frazer Nairn
Signed from Killingworth last season, 22-year-old ‘keeper Nairn made the number one jersey his own throughout the course of the 2012/13 campaign, and continues to improve with every passing game.
Lee Peacock
Joshua Holland
Lightning quick, 20-year-old Josh causes left-backs no end of problems with his pace and energy.
27-year-old Peacock has plenty of Northern League experience, having turned out for the likes of Consett and, in the Wearside League, Prudhoe Town. Lee currently tops the club’s scoring charts with three strikes to his name.
Reece Darwent
Shaun Edwards
Recently signed from Morpeth, the 20-year-old looks a real threat on the flank.
Joe Danquah
Another recent signing from South Shields, Joe brings quality to central midfield.
Yet another Seasider acquisition, the 27-year-old brings bags of experience with him to Kingsley Park. Edwards proves to be a physically strong leader of Ryton’s forward line, and will expect to be amongst the goals this season. the visitors
17
Finding CELTIC NEED TO GET INTO THE GROOVE AND FIND the Northern League.”
“NOW is the time, let everyone see you never give up - that’s how it should be. Don’t get caught, make your own play. Express yourself, don’t give it away.” The sage words of new wave legends New Order, from their anthemic football track World in Motion. It’s a song that may not get pre-match airtime in the dressing room, or in Chris Douglas’ busking set - he’s no John Barnes, after all - but the advice certainly
18
wouldn’t go amiss at West Allotment. “I don’t know what’s wrong with us. Our second half performances have been shocking, haven’t they?” asked wide man Douglas after the 1-1 draw against Esh Winning. “I’ve played against better teams on a Sunday morning, but we seem to have that mentality where we drop to their level a little bit. Most teams in the league work for ninety minutes. We work for forty-five, think the game’s won, then just stop. That’s just not the way it is in
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
The former North Shields winger pointed towards the Seaham game as the less than positive turning point for Allotment’s secondhalf showings - despite the coaches’ attempts to nip it in the bud with some tough love. “At half-time, we were getting a pat on the back, and from that game onwards, gradually, we’ve been getting worse. But at half-time, we’ve been getting less praise, and today, we didn’t really get much praise. Against Norton when I was in the changing room at half-time we didn’t get much praise, really, just: “Don’t start the half slow. Don’t do it.You need to switch on for the first fifteen, twenty minutes. Don’t concede a goal.” But we did. I don’t know what was said today, but I imagine it was less again. We just need to get rid of that mentality that the game is won, and try and grind out results more.” The late draw had the air of a defeat about it, leaving the benched Douglas feeling “deflated” afterwards. The 29-year-old has started seven of Allotment’s ten games, an occasional loser in the game of musical chairs. The strong
the right notes SOME RHYTHM ON THE PITCH, ACCORDING TO RESIDENT MUSICIAN CHRIS DOUGLAS squad has been rotated multiple times in the season’s early stages - and, whilst it has proven to be initially successful, Douglas believes that a settled starting eleven will eradicate those frustrating bum notes that Allotment have been striking.
lot of the lads were saying in the changing room that we just want to play league games, because we want to try and get over this blip. I think we need more league games to try and not lose the pace of the league. The more league games, the better.”
“It’s worked, it’s been working, but I think there comes a point where you need to start playing your strongest side,” Chris explained. “The aspirations this year are to get promoted, and maybe five or six, seven players have started most games, and the rest have been rotated. There comes a point where you have to start playing eight or nine players constantly, just to get some rhythm going. At the minute, we’re playing good football in patches, and then we just fall to bits. We got overran by a pretty average team today, but if we had a rhythm going, we’d steamroller those teams.”
The utility man can expect to feature in both league and knockout competitions, with his versatility and ability to adapt offering Allotment a number of options out wide be it as a dangerous attacker or pacy full-back. “I know I’ve been more on the right this year, but if I play on the wing, I prefer left. I like playing in midfield when I’ve got Reidy or Hendy, or to a lesser extent Marc Allen, because they all like to play five yard or ten
“Dougs” acknowledged that tonight’s game, and Saturday’s Vase trip to Penrith, could prove beneficial in establishing a hierarchy and getting “a bit of fluency going” - but would rather get straight back to Northern League action. “A
yard balls, which is what I like to do. When I get the ball, I try and play, moreso than just hitting it up the line. But I’m happy to play full-back, because I can still get forward. I’ve never been a defender, but I’ve got pace, which I can use to cover the centre-halves. But I was a winger when we won the league with Consett, scored a few goals there, then I went to uni the year after, and I think I lost my fitness a bit. If I was fully fit, then I think I’d do a job on the wing.” Wherever he finds himself stationed in the coming weeks, Chris will hope to be playing a somewhat more positive tune - and, with a little practice, the rest of the squad should also find themselves singing from the same sheet.
Douglas in action in the season opener against Alnwick Town
the feature
19
on this day...
Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history
1954 Nelson Villa were walloped at the Farm Ground in West Allotment in a hopelessly one-sided NFA Minor Cup encounter. The score was 10-0 to Celtic by half-time but they took mercy after the interval and settled for a 12-0 final scoreline. Herriott claimed five goals, with Wilkinson also grabbing a hat-trick.
1999
It appeared to be a bad day at the seaside for Allotment as they crashed to a first league defeat of the season, 2-0 away to Newbiggin CW. Sean Parker was red-carded too, just to add to the misery. What no-one knew at the time, however, was that the home side had fielded an ineligible player and, in due course, the match was voided. Allotment won the later replay and, to the eternal annoyance of runners-up Shankhouse, went on to win a third successive Northern Alliance title by, yes, three points!
20
1971 A four-goal blast from Benny Williams was the stand-out statistic from a 6-1 win over Winthrop United in a NFA Amateur Cup tie played at Backworth Welfare. Chaffey and Milburn got the other Celtic goals.
1982
Lobley Hill provided the opposition in Celtic’s sixth league match of the new campaign and the outcome was the same as the previous five games – a win for Allotment. Goals from Appleyard, Jackson and Richardson were enough to secure a 3-1 win.
2010 Allotment lost interest in the FA Vase for another year after going down 3-1 away to Bedlington Terriers. The only notable moment for Celtic was a tremendous long-range strike from Stephen Buzzeo that found the net - but it was limited consolation on a disappointing afternoon.
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
on this day
the fa vase
Penrith v West Allotment Celtic Second Round Qualifying Saturday 21st September
This time next week, West Allotment Celtic will travel westwards in their quest for FA Vase glory, venturing into Cumbria to take on Division One’s Penrith A.F.C.. The Blues destroyed Yorkshire Amateurs 7-1 at the World Group Stadium, whilst Celtic overcame Stokesley 4-3 in their own home tie. The Cumbrian outfit are in a rich vein of form at present, unbeaten in their last four games - but Allotment have gone two games better, having won five of their last six matches. The club will be putting on a coach service* to the prestigious cup tie, affording YOU the chance to support the lads on their travels.
Departure time: 11.30am at West Allotment Social Club ÂŁ5 per person
*coach may differ aesthetically to the one displayed
the fa vase
21
west allotment celtic present
• 171 tries in 247 games for Bath • Member of the England squad between 1981 and 1986 • Renowned after dinner speaker
Side-splitting local impressionist and comedian
Hosted by Real Radio’s JUSTIN LOCKWOOD THURSDAY 3RD OCTOBER 7.30PM KINGSTON PARK NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE Three course meal Auction and games £45 per ticket To book your tickets, contact david@wadefinancial.co.uk
the onion bag Craig Dobson’s take on the last seven days in the Allotment garden
“N
OBODY wants to see the same scenario repeating itself or have to hear that same sorry question, stuck on an excruciating loop.” True to my words, I will not bore you (or myself) with 500 more about what transpired on Saturday afternoon. Instead, I’ll be a little more choice in my selection of phrases: dominant opening, narrow lead, profligacy, the interval, complacency, late concession, exasperation, two points dropped. You can fill in the gaps if you’re familiar with the tale - it’s fast becoming a parable. As an alternative, I’ll discuss something a little more positive: injuries. No pre-emptive excuses to be proferred here - Allotment have a strong enough squad to cope with all but the most severe crises - but instead, a look at how our current crop deal with their various afflictions. Glenn Ford is first up. The centre-half admitted to being nowhere near match fit in Allotment’s early games, but battled on regardless. His early fitness, or lack thereof, was not down to lack of effort or dedication; he was carrying a hernia. After the
ninth consecutive game, Fordy begrudgingly ruled himself out of contention for eight to ten weeks. Taking his place will be the returning Stephen Little, who can claim to have gone one better than his defensive partner. He sees Glenn’s one hernia, and raises him another one. What’s more, the 26-yearold played on said hernia(s) for months, leading Allotment to a cup final (and getting himself sent off - but the less said about that the better!) Currently injury-free, Paul Stoneman has already booked his sports hernia in for December, with Simon Wilthew scheduled to pick one up at some point in February. Others have put off their operations for even longer than a few months. Tony Lancaster has had niggling issues with his knee for two years. The winger has finally undergone surgery that he hopes will correct the problem once and for all. As part of a deal struck with his not-so-local hospital, Tony gets a free leg brace and a couple of months’ vacation from physical exercise and driving responsibilities. The Wark man is still a few weeks away, but is finally on the road to recovery, even if he can’t make it down
goal of the week
man of the week
the A69. There are even some players who are perennially injured. Last year, Liam Hudson reeled off a cringeworthy list of injuries that he had incurred - a pulled quad, sprained ligaments, and, not least, a broken metatarsal - stating after every respective tear and break that he’d “played on that”. It was just a matter of fact to a squaddie that’s spent time in Afghanistan. On the other side of the fence, Chris Douglas seems to pick up a new injury with almost every touch of the ball, worrying the physio and fans alike with his latest niggle - only to return to the squad the very next game! Joking aside, a couple of players remain infirm for the foreseeable future. Jed Findlay, the most unfortunate man at the club, looks set to be out for a year with a catalogue of problems. And it could be months before anybody sees Aiden Ames again, as the ‘keeper’s troublesome knee issues show no sign of abating. For all the variables that may shape Celtic’s season, one thing is certain: new physio Charlotte will have her hands full this season.
Begrudgingly, it’s Dormand’s David Henderson posed a constant threat opening goal - as it was somehow on the move, particularly in the first half, the only one Celtic scored. linking up well with Reid in attack. West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
the onion bag
23
top scorers
player statistics
Liam Hudson - 4 Michael Bell - 3 Chris Douglas - 2
gk
the playmakers
yel
Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson
5 5 0
1 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
John Pendlebury Marc Dummett Chris Douglas Simon Wilthew Paul Stoneman Stephen Little Michael Latimer Glenn Ford Roy Gordon
6 (1) 9 7 (2) 1 (1) 10 0 2 (3) 9 0 (4)
1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 0
1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0
Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc Allen Sean Reid Kallum McGlen David Henderson Tony Lancaster Dean Lee
9 (1) 7 (1) 3 (3) 8 1 (2) 3 (1) 0 (2) 9
1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 3 0 1 1 0 0 0
5 0 1 6 0 0 0 1
8 9 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
4 0 0
1 5 0
midfield
Sean Reid - 6 Ian Dunn - 5 David Dormand - 5
apps
defence
name
attack
the mainstays
Paul Stoneman - 10 Glenn Ford - 9 Marc Dummett - 9
Liam Hudson David Dormand Jed Findlay Ryan Anderson Lawrence McKenna
average starting XI Bannon
Douglas
Ford
Stoneman
Dunn
24
gls
Tow 00Law00Town01
0 0
0 1 (6)
the bad boys
Dean Lee - 1 0 Chris Bannon - 1 0 Marc Dummett - 1 0
red asts
Hudson
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
Dummett
Bell Reid
Lee
Dormand the player statistics
fixtures and results nl div 2 table
1
team North Shields
pl 9
w 7
d 2
l 0
gd pts 34 23
2
Heaton Stan
11
7
1
3
7
3
Birtley
9
6
2
1
12 20
4
Seaham
8
6
0
2
18 18
5
Northallerton
9
5
3
1
15 18
6
WAC
8
5
2
1
9
17
7
Darlo RA
9
5
1
3
8
16
8
Whickham
10
5
1
4
6
16
9
Nort & Stock
11
3
6
2
4
15
10 Tow Law
9
5
0
4
3
15
11 Stokesley
10
4
2
4
1
14
12 Alnwick
9
4
2
3
-3
14
13 jarrow
6
4
0
2
5
12
14 South Shields
7
3
2
2
-2
11
15 Brandon
11
3
2
6
-7
11
16 Whitehaven
6
3
1
2
-8
10
17 Ch-le-Street
9
2
2
5
-8
8
18 Esh Winning
10
2
1
7
-20
7
19 Thornaby
9
1
3
5
-7
6
20 Willington
10
1
3
6
-14
6
21 Ryton
10
0
1
9
-17
1
22 Washington
10
0
1
9
-36
1
22
OFFICIAL NORTHERN LEAGUE SPONSORS
AUGUST 10th Alnwick Town 14th Heaton Stannington 17th Billingham Synthonia 21st Willington 24th Stokesley SC 30th Whickham
NL D2 NL D2 FA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A A A A H H
W 4-0 L 3-2 L 4-0 W 2-0 W 3-2 W 3-1
SEPTEMBER Seaham Red Star 4th Stokesley SC 7th 11th Norton & Stockton 14th Esh Winning 18th Ryton & Crawcrook 21st Penrith 24th South Shields 28th Darlington RA
NL D2 FA Vase NL D2 NL D2 Lg Cup FA Vase NL D2 NL D2
H H A H H A A A
W 2-1 W 4-3 D 3-3 D 1-1
OCTOBER Whitehaven 5th Alnwick Town 9th 12th Birtley Town 16th Tow Law Town 19th Ryton & Crawcrook 23rd Willington 26th North Shields 30th Northallerton Town
NL D2 NFA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 EA Cup NL D2 NL D2
A H H H A A H H
NOVEMBER Brandon United 1st Jarrow Roofing 9th 16th Washington 23rd Chester-le-Street 30th Thornaby
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A H H
DECEMBER Heaton Stannington 6th 14th Willington 21st Seaham Red Star 28th Norton & Stockton
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
H H A H
JANUARY Tow Law Town 4th 10th Alnwick Town 18th Stokesley SC 31st Whickham
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A A
FEBRUARY South Shields 8th 15th Esh Winning 22nd Darlington RA
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
H A H
MARCH Whitehaven 1st Birtley Town 8th 15th Ryton & Crawcrook 22nd Northallerton Town 28th Brandon United
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
H A H A H
APRIL Jarrow Roofing 5th 12th Washington 18th North Shields 26th Thornaby
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A A
NL D2
A
TBD Chester-le-Street
fixtures, results, table
25
ee itt m m ing Co eet m pm 8
rottweiler’s notes
Rin g Bloo the dho un
d!
8th Sept
Barbara at work all day, so I have all the household chores to do. There always seems more to do when I do them. Complete my reports on yesterday’s game at Whitley Bay.
9th Sept
Newcastle with Barbara, then home in time to collect Morgan from school. What a great tennis match Nadal v Djokovic was in the US Open Final.
10 Sept
Morgan falls out with grandma and tells me she is not coming back on her way to school. She says I will have to go and visit her at her house, but grandma can’t come. Have my first meeting at NFA today for the first time in over a month. In the evening, I’m the match assessor at Whitley Bay v Morpeth.
11th Sept
Very quiet day, and yes, Morgan does arrive for breakfast, and everything is fine. We draw 3 – 3 at Norton, and again we drop two points in a game which we should have won easily. Very frustrating.
12th Sept
Complete paperwork from last night’s game and spend the rest of the day doing nothing except watch TV.
13th Sept
Friday the 13th and Barbara not happy at all about the date - but it doesn’t stop her going off to Newcastle for some retail therapy. In the evening, emails start flying between me and Mike Amos about a Secret Shoppers’ report. My point is that they are not marking clubs consistently.
14th Sept
Match assessor at Benfield v Newton Aycliffe, and we only draw with Esh Winning after missing many chances.
th
15th Sept
16 Sept th
26
The bloodhound and I decide to watch Cullercoats Formica (Steve Brown’s team) play Billy Mill in the Crichton Cup Semi-Final. Have a chat with Tommy Grounsell (Billy Mill), who is now 80 years old and still running after footballs. A disturbing incident occurs after Tommy goes and collects the ball, one of his own players shouts an obscenity at him. No respect shown at all by this player, who I am happy to describe as a foulmouthed yob. We are also treated to the Red Arrows flying overhead. Steve, I never realised your contacts went as far as that. Thanks for the show! Well, after reading Mike Amos’ blog I am virtually speechless to see the Secret Shopper marks awarded to Benfield and Newton Aycliffe. The reason why I am virtually speechless is I was match assessor at this game, and it proves my point that these Secret Shoppers are not marking consistently. Wait until the bugger (Mike) comes to our match on Wednesday night!
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
rottweiler’s notes
FOREST HALL YPC
Proud to support West Allotment Celtic Forest Hall Young People’s Club are based at East Palmersville Sports Pavilion, and have no fewer than 25 teams playing under the Forest Hall banner, including youth, senior and women’s teams.
West Allotment Celtic
Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
Manager: Paul STONEMAN Chris BANNON Ryan BEAL Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Marc DUMMETT Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Chris DOUGLAS Michael LATIMER Roy GORDON Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Lawrence McKENNA Ryan ANDERSON Jed FINDLAY Referee: C DEAN
Follow us @wacfc
Manager: John WILSON Frazer NAIRN Conor GILLESPIE David BELOW (c) Leigh SHICKLE Adam CHROSTOWSKI Liam BARKER Chris JUDD Callum TURNBULL Stephen CRAME Joshua HOLLAND Lee McGILL Michael POOLEY Paul BASEY Paul CLARKE Jorge BOLLADO Lee PEACOCK Reece DERWENT Andrew PEACOCK Micky WATSON Calum ALEXANDER Matthew WILSON David BACKHOUSE
Assistants: F MALTON
M MALTON
WADE FINANCIAL
Find us on Facebook www.westallotmentcelticfc.com