allotment
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14
all about redemption how nolan and hudson got their respective grooves back
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ryton & crawcrook NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO SATURDAY 15TH MARCH
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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
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the backroom staff
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Press Officer Photographer
Alex Smailes Roland Mather Jimmy Wilson Ted Ilderton John Alexander Jonny Thompson David Dodds Paul Mason Above, plus Al Liddle,Michael Wilson, Les Scott, Kath Orr, Harry Bell, Stephen Allott, Richie Marks Craig Dobson Graeme Jackson
the last match
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the last meeting
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the preview
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the visitors
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the allotment redemption
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the onion bag
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on this day
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Selected Club Honours
dear referee...
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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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the squads
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1987, 1991, 1992, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004 Northern League D2 champions 2005 NFA Amateur Cup winners 1957, 1975 NFA Benevolent Bowl winners 1993 Craven Cup winners 2005 Ernest Armstrong Mem. Cup winners 2013
Backroom Staff Manager Assistant Manager First Team Coach Physio
Paul Stoneman Wilf Kielty Paul Hogg Charlotte Ferguson
Northern Alliance champions
eighty-five Stephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour
from creation to contenders
...and the decade of decline
West Allotment Celtic were formed in 1928, the culmination of a merger between West Allotment Primitive Methodists and West Allotment Juniors. After moving to the newly-created Tynemouth & District League in 1935, the club began to grow in stature. The club had to face Whitley Bay & Monkseaton Reserves in a play-off for the title, but unfortunately, the decider went the way of the seasiders. Remarkably, Allotment also finished in a play-off position in the following two seasons – and, in both cases, had to settle for a runner-up spot.
The sixties started promisingly enough, as Allotment looked to build on their previous successes. The club finished as runners-up in the Northern Amateur League in 1960, and were consecutive Minor Cup finalists in 1960 and 1961.
changing leagues, sheds and times In 1938, the club joined the Second Division of the Northern Amateur League. Now playing at the aptly-named Farm Ground, fans helped to dismantle a cowshed in Heaton and move it, piece by piece, to West Allotment, where it was reassembled at the ground. The shed was not for spectators – it served as the players’ changing facilities! The club earned instant promotion (after a play-off, such is club tradition), but World War II put a stop to any further progress.
a succession of successes... The club recommenced operations in 1946/47 and enjoyed an unprecedented run of success from the mid-fifties onwards. Allotment won the championship for four consecutive seasons between 1956 and 1960, along with the NFA Amateur Cup in 1957 and the NFA Minor Cup in 1958.
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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
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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 GK Jack Thompson
CB Simon Wilthew CB Glenn Ford CB Stephen Little CB Paul Stoneman RB John Pendlebury
Bob Rodgerson Stephen Little GK Age: 31 CB Age: 26 A Percy Main Amateurs The ex-Annfield Plain regular, Bob performed and Killingworth stopper admirably when filling shone at the back for in during a goalkeeping Allotment last season, crisis towards the back putting in a series of end of last season, and superlative defensive has registered once again showings, earning the to be our third choice Player’s Player of the Year ‘keeper. Award in the process.
Simon Wilthew John Pendlebury Chris Douglas CB Age: 25 RB Age: 27 RB Age: 29 Simon featured 15 times A first-team regular since The ultimate utility player, at the back for Allotment signing for Allotment Chris can be employed last season. Strong at from Ryton in 2010, anywhere down either centre-half and adept at John’s relentless work flank to devastating left-back, the Monkseaton ethic and tenacious effect. The former North defender will be looking tackling bring stability Shields man’s pace and to build on his impressive to the back four. The perception underpins his debut in the Northern full-back often serves as undoubted ability, be it League. captain in the absence of as a full-back or a wide Ian Dunn. midfielder.
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
RB Chris Douglas LB Marc Dummett CM David Borley CM Roy Gordon CM Ian Dunn
CM Marc Allen CM David Henderson CM Michael Bell CM Sean Reid CM Paul Chapman
Marc Dummett LB Age: 26 The former Ponteland United and Dunston fullback has proven to be an asset to the club in both defence and attack. His crossing ability in both regular play and from set-pieces is second to none.
Roy Gordon CM Age: 31 Roy rejoins Celtic for a second spell, having last played for the club during the 2011/12 season. Able to play in a number of positions, the experienced utility man has also turned out for North Shields, Consett and Annfield Plain.
Michael Bell CM Age: 22 Brimming with potential, “Belly” won the Under-19 National Schools Cup with Northumberland and has also represented Ryton. Bell is unbeatable in the air, and can also operate on the wing and as a supporting striker.
RM Tony Lancaster RM Kallum McGlen LM Dean Lee LM Connor Graham ST Lawrence McKenna
ST Liam Hudson ST David Dormand ST Jed Findlay ST Rob Nolan
David Borley David Henderson CM Age: 30 CM Age: 31 Central midfielder David David Henderson turned out for Bury in rejoined the club last his youth, and the football season, and the former coach has gone on to North Shields schemer represent the likes of provides another option Bedlington Terriers, going forward through Hebburn Town and the middle. Henders Jarrow Roofing in the is arguably one of the Northern League. A most skilful players in the dynamic playmaker. squad.
Ian Dunn Marc Allen Sean Reid CM Age: 31 CM Age: 26 CM Age: 21 Long-serving, tough Marc previously turned Rangy, pacy and tackling midfielder Dunn out for Whitley Bay technically gifted, Sean has grafted tirelessly Reserves, but has can play as a roaming for three years at West become a mainstay in the central midfielder, a Allotment, earning the Celtic squad. His astute dangerous centrecaptain’s armband in the passing, ball retention forward, or even an adept process. “Dunny” remains skills and battling tenacity centre-back. The former one of Celtic’s key men are evident whenever he Ryton forward is one of deep in the heart of is called upon in central Celtic’s most promising midfield. midfield. attacking outlets.
the squad
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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
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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Rob Nolan ST Age: 24 Signed from Cramlington Rob scored 30 goals for North Shields before Town last February, Jed earning his big move to is a promising forward with plenty of attacking Blyth Spartans, and after brief spells at Whitley potential. Having made a Bay and Bedlington, the handful of appearances last season, the striker clinical forward is looking to once again make his will be hoping to get mark upon Division Two. more game time this campaign.
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.
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the last match
11TH MARCH 2014 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO THE GLEBE SPORTS GROUND
Whickham 2 West Allotment Celtic 3
W
EST Allotment Celtic recovered from two early setbacks in fine fashion on Tuesday evening, securing a vital 3-2 victory against Whickham at the Glebe Sports Ground. Within minutes of kick-off. Rob Nolan saw an early shot blocked in the penalty area, but no such obstacles stood in his way soon after. Centrehalves Kris Holmes and Michael Hedley allowed him a clear straight path towards goal, but the former Shields poacher struck his effort straight at John Mordey, who kept the ball out with his legs. It soon went from bad to worse for Celtic, who, having spurned a gilt-edged chance,
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proceeded to gift Whickham with one of their own. A square delivery from the right inadvertently struck Paul Stoneman’s hand in the penalty area, with the referee having no other option but to signal for a penalty. Up stepped centreforward Ian Robson, but he could not convert from twelve yards, his well-struck spot-kick palmed away superbly to the right by stopper Ryan Beal. Unfortunately, it was only a temporary reprieve. The visitors, having been let off the hook by their penaltysaving specialist, let their guard down moments later from the resulting corner. The ball broke to Robson, who ignored offside calls to fire towards goal. Beal once again denied him initially, but even the Ipswich-born
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
‘keeper could not prevent him a third time, as Whickham’s number nine made amends by tucking away the rebound. Allotment soon had just cause to appeal for a penalty of their own, but this time, the officials were not interested. Sean Reid burst into the box, looking to get around Holmes, before the veteran caught Celtic’s top scorer in the face whilst tussling at pace. The playmaker went to ground, but neither the referee nor his assistant were convinced, despite definite contact being made. It mattered little, as the hoops were back on level terms within a minute. It came from another corner, expertly flashed across the box by Marc Dummett, and Michael Bell
found the space to glance the ball across goal and into the back of the net – his first from a corner this season, despite his indomitable aerial qualities. After a breakneck opening to the game, chances became more limited thereafter, but the pace remained relentless, and Allotment’s midfield trio of Bell, Reid and Ian Dunn were slowly winning the battle in the centre of the park. That said, they could well have gone behind prior to the interval. A long set-piece was flicked on by a Whickham head into the danger area, and a powerful follow-up header looked destined for the net, only for Beal to produce another top drawer save, this time tipping the ball over the crossbar. Allotment looked to be heading into half-time on level terms, having survived a brief barrage of set-pieces, but went one better in the closing seconds of regulation time. A lofted ball forward was not dealt with by Whickham captain Hedley, allowing the pacy Nolan a clear forty yard run at goal. Mordey raced out to close the angle, and, after some delay, the Celtic centreforward eventually rounded the despairing ‘keeper.before coolly slotting into the corner, beyond the two covering defenders. The Home Guard started the second half with intent, and would surely have pegged back Allotment, were a quickly taken
free kick not pulled back by the referee. They were duly switched on when dealing with a bouncing ball in the box, Stephen Little hooking away when a goal seemed imminent. At the other end, Celtic should have afforded themselves some breathing space, courtesy of their powerful wide man. Looking dangerous on the break, a tidy Nolan flick over the head of the last man had Liam Hudson accelerating into acres of space behind the defence. A winger by trade but a striker at heart, the former Ryton hitman should have done better, opting to round Mordey, but with less success than his teammate earlier in the evening, instead seeing the ball whipped off his toes by the goalkeeper down low. It was a scarcely believable miss, but Hudson more than made amends for it with a fine goal that demonstrated just how dangerous he can be. Receiving a lofted pass to his chest, ‘Hud’ held off his marker before turning him inside out, moving into the central channel and powering a shot across goal, his strike clipping the post before it crossed the line. Buoyed by his goal, Hudson remained a threat down the left, and almost added an assist to his evening’s tally. His low delivery across goal found Nolan in the area, and although the striker did get a shot away, Ross Peareth was there
to make a courageous closerange block. A fresh face was introduced on Hudson’s flank, the 25-year-old replaced by Chris Douglas, and he almost made an impact himself, a delicate chip palmed away from harm by Mordey. Hudson’s fine turn and finish would have been a worthy winner in most games, but that was placed in jeopardy by the goal of the evening, as it came from a Whickham boot. The hosts briefly turned on the style, a series of intricate passes carrying the ball towards Mark Pattison. The winger had fired wide previously from a similar range, but made no mistake this time, thumping and unstoppable half-volley high into the net. It set the scene for a nerveracking final fifteen, but Little and Stoneman – as well as the latter’s replacement Glenn Ford – made a series of blocks to keep their noses in front. Pendlebury made his fair share of timely clearances, whilst in the final seconds of the game, left-back Dummett hacked away from within yards of his own goal line, with a Whickham attacker set to strike. West Allotment Celtic held on for an important victory against tough opposition, and were worthy winners on the night, having displayed the commitment and clinical edge that has served them so well for much of the current campaign. the last match
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the last meeting
19TH OCTOBER 2014 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO KINGSLEY PARK STADIUM
Ryton & Crawcrook 2 West Allotment Celtic 4
W
EST Allotment Celtic strolled to a deceptively comfortable 4-2 win at rock-bottom Ryton & Crawcrook Albion on Saturday afternoon. The visitors made a blistering start to the game, David Dormand forcing Steven Robinson into the first save of the afternoon following dogged work from the tireless Ian Dunn, before a speculative forty-yard lob from Marc Dummett almost dipped over the retreating ‘keeper’s head. The pressure soon told, as Sean Reid broke the deadlock after ten minutes. Liam Hudson, restored to the starting line-up following his introduction in midweek, burst forward and squared for the 21-year-old,
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who curled into the top corner for the away side. Within four minutes, Allotment had doubled their lead, stunning the hosts with their second early goal in quick succession. This time, the favour was repaid to Hudson, who beat the offside trap and shook off two markers before smashing the ball across Robinson. Allotment threatened to run amok against the basement outfit, with Hudson proving to be a thorn in the side of full-back David Below. First, the attacker bustled his way inside from the left, firing a deflected effort wide of goal, before Michael Bell came agonisingly close to converting his cross, the volleyed strike cannoning off the crossbar.Yet just as a
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
third goal looked to be on the cards, Albion snatched one of their own. David Backhouse managed to wriggle free in the box, dancing past his marker and lofting the ball over the stranded Ryan Beal. The visitors, though rattled by the unexpected strike, were still in the ascendancy, and would have restored their advantage through Dormand were it not for the impressive Robinson smothering the forward, before parrying away from close range. At the other end, David Shickle headed a rare chance wide for Ryton, who were fortunate to head into the break just one goal behind. Roy Gordon came off the bench to replace the injured Dummett at half-time, and made an almost instant
impact. Hudson received the substitute’s ball down the flank and spun his man, cut inside and curled the ball accurately into the bottom corner.
...in pictures with graeme jackson
Ryton came forward again on a fast deteriorating pitch, but Allotment rarely looked like conceding. Michael Pooley’s attempted cross from a set-piece veered towards goal, forcing Beal to tip the ball away, before Adam Chrostowski headed wide. However, they were handed a way back into the match by an uncharacteristic goalkeeping error. Beal spilled what seemed to be a routine catch, and failed to gather the following rebound, allowing Francesco Di Pietro to tap home. The deficit may have been reduced once more, but Celtic were in no mood to surrender two points, and went looking for a fourth. Dormand was again denied by Robinson, the goalie this time using his legs to block a goalbound effort, and an inswinging corner from Gordon was cleared off the line by goalscorer Backhouse. The killer goal came with ten minutes left on the clock. A trademark Dormand long throw was flicked back into the box by Paul Stoneman, and Michael Bell rose before Robinson to apply the headed finish. It was the midfielder’s second winning goal in as many games, and was no less than Allotment deserved. the last meeting
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the pre-match preview
RYTON & CRAWCROOK ALBION form: WDLLL
form: LWLDW
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
A
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FTER disappointing results against Heaton Stannington and Birtley Town, West Allotment Celtic set about proving that the previous two games were merely blips, placing themselves right back in the mix for promotion with a win on Tuesday night. Whickham were the midweek hosts, and, unlike Allotment, came into the game in good form, having come within seconds of defeating Jarrow Roofing at the Glebe. Nevertheless,
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HILST the hosts continue their push to move up a division, their opponents this afternoon are fighting to stay in this one. Ryton and Crawcrook Albion have gamely battled to a lower mid-table position in the last two years, but any chance of replicating their previous positions is looking highly unlikely. The Tyneside club have struggled throughout the season, and are currently propping up the Division Two table. John Wilson’s men are currently seven points adrift of safety,
Allotment had the bit between their teeth on the night, ultimately grinding out a decisive 3-2 victory on away turf. Excepting himself, playermanager Paul Stoneman may be reluctant to make changes to a winning side - though he can expect to have more options available to him for today’s game. Both David Dormand and David Henderson missed the trip to Gateshead, sidelined by a stomach bug and personal commitments respectively, but both should be in the frame to return. but do have the benefit of four games in hand on Esh Winning, who currently occupy the last remaining spot before the relegation cutoff. The Albion have registered just five wins all season two of which have come in the past seven games. A vital 2-0 victory over relegation rivals Esh, Scott Gunn and Matt Phillips notching the decisive goals. A narrow defeat to Birtley followed, but the Albion bounced back emphatically after a three week break, strikers Scott Canham and Dean Sinclair amongst
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
Versatile wide man Chris Douglas started on the bench, but could find himself in the starting line-up, whilst Ryan Beal’s third penalty save of the season may not be enough to prevent Chris Bannon from reclaiming the goalkeeping jersey as part of the continuing rotation policy between the sticks. With all of their major rivals similarly picking up points midweek, Allotment can scarcely afford to drop any points - and, having rediscovered their edge in attack, will be favourites to keep up the pace today. the scorers in a 4-1 defeat of Brandon United. A 2-2 draw at Darlington R.A. represented a continuance in progress, only for the fledgling run to be understandably halted at divisional heavyweights Jarrow Roofing. Just the one goal at Washington prevented them from progressing in the Memorial Cup, but Albion were disastrously humbled at home against the same opponents just four days later, conceding seven goals in a comprehensive thrashing at Kingsley Park. The back four will hope to fare an awful lot better at Whitley Park this afternoon.
Vastly experienced centre-half Paul Stoneman has, like many in the squad, started to feel the weight of two-game weeks. Having played seventy-five minutes at Whickham, the player-manager is expected to rest himself, with either Glenn Ford or John Pendlebury set to deputise in his stead.
statattack 60
The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park
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No. of points separating the two teams last season
previous meetings P 14 16 30
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 12 9 21
D 1 4 5
L 1 3 4
F 40 30 70
A 12 21 33
No. of Celtic attackers that have played for Ryton
4 83
No. of goals conceded by Albion thus far
the preview
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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
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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 Kevin Quigley
Albion’s number one made his debut against Brandon in October, the 28-year-old is an able shot stopper.
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
The pen profiles of some of Albion’s key squad members
Orin Parkinson
Former Tow Law centre-half. A top defender when fit.
Paul Basey
A 19-year-old winger with bags of pace and potential, who has impressed since joining in July.
Lee McGill
Signed from Gateshead Leam Rangers, Lee is capable of doing the donkey work in central midfield.
Philip Hodges
A product of the reserve team, Hodges has become a regular first team fixture this season. Already looks promising.
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.
Joshua Holland
Lightning quick, 20-year-old Josh causes left-backs no end of problems with his pace and energy.
David Backhouse
An 18-year-old creative midfielder, who has rejoined the Albion after a stint at Tow Law.
Scott Gunn
Another young player to make the step up to the first team, Scott joined from Birtley Town in September, bringing attacking verve to the midfield.
Dean Sinclair
A regular goalscorer in the Durham Alliance with Sunderland Hylton Colliery Welfare, the 25-year-old forward is beginning to find the net regularly. Sinclair is currently the club’s top scorer.
Tom Phillips
A January signing, 25-year-old striker Phillips arrived from Red House Farm. Possesses great pace in the forward role.
Matty Fothergill
Another attacker who joined after Christmas, Matty has made the move up from the reserves, having impressed the club during trials.
the visitors
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today’s match sponsor
Philip Waitman
thank you for your support
the allotment
redemption how messrs Nolan and Hudson atoned for their errors on Tuesday night
W
HEN the players trudged off the field at the Birtley Sports Complex, their heads were bowed in disappointment. Their prayers for a solitary game-winning goal went unheeded by their centreforward. Robbie Nolan had missed two gilt-edged chances to put Allotment ahead in the first half, and the footballing gods would forsake him in the second, a seemingly goalbound effort bobbling onto the woodwork. The former Shields disciple could have laid those ghosts to rest three nights later. The game was still in its infancy when Nolan sped past the static centre-halves and into the area, but with both corners to aim for, the forward chose neither. The shot was saved, the opportunity lost. Robbie kept working, with faith in his ability and hope of a fortunate break. When it came towards the end of the half, it was via an unwitting act of charity. Michael Hedley’s
misjudgement of a lofted ball allowed the 24-year-old to once again race in behind the defence. This time, his path to goal, though long, was unerring. With patience in abundance, he shepherded the ball around the ‘keeper, firing past two despairing bodies on the line. Forgiveness came with the halftime advantage. Liam Hudson was arguably another player looking to serve penance. It has been a frustrating season for the striker-turned-winger after a blistering start. He was still providing the assists, but had hit the target just once in twenty games. He certainly has the attributes to be a top inside forward, and was given the chance to demonstrate his attacking prowess by none other than Nolan. The striker’s flick put Hud clean through on goal, forty yards of clear space ahead of him. Much like against South Shields in December, the goal seemed inevitable. And yet, on another Tuesday night, Liam had the ball pulled from his feet
whilst attempting to round the goalkeeper. The glaring, scarcely believable miss turned the air blue on the touchline, but Stoneman kept the faith. It was rewarded on the hour mark, as Allotment’s unlikely saviour silenced the doubters with his best goal all season. Pulling down a pass with his chest, Hudson eschewed his usual trajectory down the flank, instead shrugging off his marker and turning inside. On his strongest foot, the former Ryton forward lashed across goal and in off the post. From wasteful winger to well-built wizard in one passage of play; a minor miracle witnessed by dozens at the Glebe. Both players look like they have risen from adversity once more, periods on benches and long barren spells respectively behind them. Their quality was never in doubt, but they look closer to their sharp best. With Allotment back in form and pushing once more for a promotion berth, the pair’s second coming couldn’t have come at a better time. the allotment redemption
19
the new signing west allotment celtic are delighted to welcome
paul chapman back to the club
West Allotment Celtic have snapped up Paul Chapman from local divisional rivals Heaton Stannington. The 23-year-old was on the books at Allotment towards the end of the 2010/11 season as a centre-forward, scoring on his debut against Bishop Auckland. Now a midfielder by trade, ‘Chappers’ has plenty of Northern League experience, having played for South Shields prior to the Stan, and he can also provide cover further back. The versatile returnee will fill the void left by David Borley, who has returned to Jarrow Roofing after making five appearances for Allotment.
the letter draw F
U
W
11th March 2014 4 winners of £200 each
For only £1 per draw, you choose 5 letters. 3 different letters are drawn and if your letters match the ones drawn you receive a share of the £800 jackpot – the jackpot is shared between everyone who has chosen the winning letters. The jackpot must be won every week. To play, simply 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.
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
ATURDAY’S game at Birtley was labelled as a must-win - perhaps rightly so. Coming off the back of a disappointing 1-0 defeat at home to Heaton Stannington, vast improvements were needed in attack.Two hours later, we were heading back across the Tyne, with zero goals, one solitary point and little in the way of hope. Fortunately, other results toward the top of the tree were equally underwhelming (save for Seaham’s drubbing of South Shields). Expect-towins fast became surprising stalemates, or, in the Stan’s case, outright defeats. Allotment didn’t win their must-win, meaning that the next must-win really was a must-win. On paper, it was even less likely than a result against the Birtley boys. A Tuesday night trip to a difficult ground to face an in-form side represented a (literal) uphill challenge for the visitors, who had failed to score in back to back games for the first time this season. Shields, Seaham and Jarrow all had to labour to take something away from the Glebe - the latter side requiring a 93rd minute leveller from their captain. The must-
win looked like becoming a mustn’t-lose, the solitary point not something to be sniffed at. That message hadn’t been relayed to the lads in the dressing room. The ethos remained to win at all costs, to apply pressure across the pitch, but in particular within the final third. Nolan should have put Celtic ahead within minutes, and they would pay the price soon after. Ian Robson stepped up from twelve yards after the ball struck Stoneman’s hand, but the striker didn’t open his account from the spot. Ryan Beal is fast becoming something of a penalty expert, emulating his fellow countyman (and probable goalkeeping hero) Richard Wright by pulling off his third save of the season, keeping the scores tied - for all of thirty seconds. “Watch them score from this corner,” muttered photographer Graeme Jackson amidst the muted celebrations. His grim premonition came true from the resulting set-piece, Robson making amends with his second attempt. Allotment had no intention of beating themselves up about their lack of concentration - indeed, they didn’t need to, as Whickham centre-half Kris Holmes was
dishing it out regardless, catching Reid in the face as he moved around the silver veteran. The referee was unmoved, but it knocked Celtic out of their brief stupor. A trademark Bell header - incredibly, his first from a corner this year - and a tidy finish from Nolan capped a remarkable resurgence prior the half-time whistle. In the second half, Hudson missed a howler (more on that on page 19), but showed his class with a well-taken goal soon after. If Hud came inside on his stronger foot in similar fashion on a more frequent basis, he’d probably get fifteen to twenty a season. A winger he ain’t, but he has all of the requisite qualities to be a top class inside forward. A belting goal by the Home Guard set up a nervy finale, but Celtic withstood the barrage at the back, hanging on for a priceless victory.There are five should-wins and four couldwins left between now and late April. Seven of nine would surely see us go up. Those should-wins will soon become must-wins. The could-wins? With trips to both Shields and Jarrow on the cards, few would consider us favourites - but by that point, we may well need all three.
goal of the week
man of the week
The third, courtesy of Hudson, was a tremendous display of strength and skill. If only he did it more often!
Pendlebury and Dummett both had solid games at full-back, but it goes to Ian Dunn, who barely gave Whickham a sniff in midfield.
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
the onion bag
21
March
15
on this day... Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history
1952 Allotment had fought through six matches to reach the semi-finals of the NFA Minor Cup but were stopped in their tracks by Dudley Welfare who won 2-0 to deny Celtic a place in the final.
1975 A Robson effort was proved to be the only goal between Allotment and Heaton Stannington in a Northern Amateur League game played at Backworth and earned the home side maximum points.
1995 A John Fitzpatrick goal for Allotment meant that the final of the North Tyneside Hospitals Cup ended in a one-all draw. The replay, played at Purvis Park in Percy Main, also finished all square and Celtic lost out in a penalty shoot-out.
2011
22
The relegation trapdoor was creaking ever wider open for Allotment after they slumped to a 2-1 defeat away to Penrith. In a bad-tempered affair, the home side went two up before a late Gareth McAlindon strike gave Allotment some hope. Despite a spell of frenetic pressure, the visitors could not find an equaliser and went on to pick up a paltry five points from their remaining eleven matches. West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
on this day
Dear Referee... An open letter regarding the need for respect between players and officials.
HEN I was a young boy, I, like many prospective little brats, was always told to respect my elders. As I grew out of my bowl haircut and into bad skin and braces, it was no longer an instruction that I held in high esteem.
W
where possible. The secret shopper and fair play initiatives do serve to encourage clubs (if not always players) to try and curb any bad behaviour, but one of the unseen issues may stem from a dressing room that does not belong to the players or coaching staff.
was already evident - he was the only man in the ground with a whistle. His second statement only served to underline an alarming sense of self-importance. Information, but no interaction.
The one maxim that stayed with was one taught by my Why? That respect was not parents, albeit implicitly. In a recent encounter, the reciprocated by a minority Respect is very much a two man in the middle barked at of adults. My attitude way street. Some of the finest one of our frustrated players towards them would change referees I have witnessed this accordingly - and certainly not as though he were an insolent year - younger officials, though child, the incident indicative of for the better. If I vocalised that may be a coincidence his manner throughout. It set my grievances, I could expect - understand the need to the tone early on, heightening to receive a disciplinary establish relationships with the warning at work, or a smacked tensions between officials players and, in particular, the and players when a more backside at home. If I were captains. They are all adults on conciliatory approach may have that pitch (Birtley excepting), treated in a fairer manner, been beneficial. Celtic went on and, despite the intermittent neither scenario would need to have three players booked to occur once, let alone temperamental behaviour on repeatedly. The same may well for dissent, the ref’s demeanour display, should still be treated as much a source of frustration as such. be applicable on the pitch. as his decision making. On a separate occasion, a different In the face of aggressive If officials should adopt the role official refused three requests shouting and profanity-laden of aloof disciplinarians, incapable for clarification on a statement of mediation, their charges rants, the cards often come made towards the coach, met out of a referee’s pocket, just will revert to insolence - and as they should. But the answer twice with stony silence and referees will have to smack far a third time with an indignant is to treat the root causes more backsides than they ever “I’m the referee.” That much rather than the symptoms should. dear referee...
23
top scorers
player statistics
the mainstays
Sean Reid - 37 (1) Ian Dunn - 34 (3) Paul Stoneman - 34
gk Liam Hudson - 13 Michael Bell - 8 Chris Douglas - 7
Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson
11 22 7 (2)
2 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
defence
the playmakers
yel
John Pendlebury Marc Dummett Chris Douglas Simon Wilthew Paul Stoneman Stephen Little Glenn Ford Roy Gordon
28 (3) 22 (1) 32 (3) 1 (1) 34 26 14 (1) 8 (9)
1 3 3 1 5 3 0 0
0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
0 7 7 0 3 1 0 1
1 1 3 0 3 4 0 0
midfield
Sean Reid - 29 David Dormand - 13 Michael Bell - 10
apps
David Borley Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc Allen Sean Reid Bernat Roca Bart Oliver-Berga Kallum McGlen David Henderson Tony Lancaster Dean Lee Connor Graham
5 (1) 34 (3) 25 (6) 10 (9) 37 (1) 1 (2) 1 (3) 8 (7) 29 (2) 6 (6) 13 (7) 2 (7)
1 6 2 1 6 1 0 0 3 2 1 0
0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 8 0 5 0 0 2 7 1 0 2
0 6 10 1 29 0 1 1 1 1 3 0
attack
name
Liam Hudson David Dormand Lawrence McKenna Rob Nolan
30 (4) 27 (8) 8 (11) 3 (2)
4 1 1 0
Tow 00Law135Town138 0 0
2 0
4 2
Beal
Pendlebury
Little
Stoneman
Dunn
24
gls
average starting XI
the bad boys
Paul Stoneman - 5 1 Ian Dunn - 6 0 Sean Reid - 6 0
red asts
Hudson
West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion
Douglas
Henderson Reid
Bell
Dormand the player statistics
fixtures and results nl div 2 table
1
team North Shields
pl 33
w 25
d 5
l 3
gd pts 90 80
2
Roofing
34
22
7
5
52 73
3
Seaham
36
24
4
8
49 73
4
WAC
33
20
9
4
33 69
5
Heaton Stan
31
18
5
8
15 59
6
Nort & Stock
36
16
8
12
7
7
Northallerton 33
15
8
10 16 53
8
Birtley
32
14
7
11
8
49
9
Ch-le-Street
32
13 10
9
3
49
10 Darlo RA
34
13
7
14
9
46
11 Washington
33
14
4
15 -11 46
12 Tow Law
34
13
5
16
0
44
13 Thornaby
34
12
5
17
1
41
14 Whickham
30
11
5
14
9
38
15 Willington
34
10
7
17 -22 37
16 South Shields 27
7
13
7
17 Whitehaven
30
9
5
16 -30 32
18 Alnwick
32
8
7
17 -26 31
19 Stokesley
35
8
7
20 -27 31
20 Esh Winning
35
8
2
25 -71 26
21 Brandon
33
7
4
22 -43 25
22 Ryton
31
5
4
22 -52 19
56
-10 34
OFFICIAL NORTHERN LEAGUE SPONSORS
AUGUST 10th Alnwick Town 14th Heaton Stannington 17th Billingham Synthonia 21st Willington 24th Stokesley SC 30th Whickham
NL D2 NL D2 FA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A A A A H H
W 4-0 L 3-2 L 4-0 W 2-0 W 3-2 W 3-1
SEPTEMBER Seaham Red Star 4th Stokesley SC 7th th Norton & Stockton 11 th Esh Winning 14 th Ryton & Crawcrook 18 st Penrith 21 th Darlington RA 28
NL D2 FA Vase NL D2 NL D2 Lg Cup FA Vase NL D2
H H A H H A A
W 2-1 W 4-3 D 3-3 D 1-1 W 1-0 L 4-1 W 4-0
OCTOBER Whitehaven 5th Alnwick Town 9th th Birtley Town 12 th Tow Law Town 16 th Ryton & Crawcrook 19 th North Shields 26 th Northallerton Town 30
NL D2 NFA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H H H A H H
L 3-1 L 2-1 W 2-1 W 3-2 W 4-2 D 0-0 W 3-0
NOVEMBER Brandon United 1st Willington 5th th Jarrow Roofing 8 th Chester-le-Street 12 th Washington 16 rd Chester-le-Street 23 th Northallerton Town 27 th Thornaby 30
NL D2 EA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 Lg Cup NL D2
A A H A A H H H
W 2-1 L 4-1 L 5-3 D 0-0 W 3-2 D 2-2 W 5-3 W 2-1
DECEMBER 10th South Shields 14th Willington 21st Seaham Red Star 28th Norton & Stockton
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A H
D 2-2 W 3-0 D 2-2 W 5-0
JANUARY Tow Law Town 4th 10th Alnwick Town th Stokesley SC 18
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A
W 4-3 W 5-3 D 2-2
FEBRUARY 22nd Darlington RA 25th Marske United
NL D2 Lg Cup
H A
W 2-1 L 2-0
MARCH Whitehaven 1st Heaton Stannington 5th th Birtley Town 8 th Whickham 11 th Ryton & Crawcrook 15 th South Shields 19 nd Northallerton Town 22 th Esh Winning 26 th Brandon United 29
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
H H A A H H A A H
W 2-0 L 1-0 D 0-0 W 3-2
APRIL Jarrow Roofing 5th 12th Washington th North Shields 18 26th Thornaby
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A A
fixtures, results, table
25
ee itt m m ing Co eet m pm 8
4th Mar
rottweiler’s notes
Rin g Bloo the dho un
d!
Attend NFA Discipline Commission for an appeal with a DVD submitted. The referee should be embarrassed after what he wrote and what is on the DVD. Needless to say the player wins his appeal. In the evening, attend weekly committee meeting.
5th Mar
Huge disappointment tonight when we lose 1-0 to Heaton Stannington, who score with their only shot on goal.
6th Mar
Barbara has a hospital appointment this morning, which goes well, and I have an appointment in the afternoon. Doctor reckons my problem is muscular and gives me a steroid injection in my hip. I hope doctor is right.
7th Mar
Wow, what a difference in my leg. I’m walking for the first time in nearly 12 months without any problems. Let’s hope this continues.
8 Mar
Saturday is the only day when I have a lie-in due to having Morgan every morning and Barbara starts work early on Sundays. So what happens today (Saturday)? Morgan, who has stayed overnight, decides to wake me up at 6.45am. I could have strangled her. Another disappointing performance at Birtley this afternoon.
9th Mar
Attend Sunday County Cup Semi-Final and I’m appalled at the behaviour of the home team. The language really was awful and they also had four players cautioned for unsporting behaviour. The visitors’ behaviour was impeccable. Bloodhound says to me that is Sunday football. Well, I totally disagree with that comment. It is up to referees to stop this kind of behaviour. Once one player has been sent off they should get the message; if they don’t, they will after the second player has been sent off. We need referees to start and sort this behaviour out once and for all. Maybe it is time we (NFA) sent a message out to referees and clubs. We could demote referees for not applying the laws of the game. Now there is a controversial suggestion.
10th Mar
Match assessor Team Northumbria v Shildon and in a match that was vitally important to both teams, I’m very impressed with the way the game was handled by referee Rebecca Welch.
11th Mar
Went to Durham to see grandson, then dragged off to Metro Centre. Eventually arrive home at 3.30pm. Great win at Whickham tonight, the lads battled really well. Team spirit was brilliant.
th
26
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.
ALBION Manager John WILSON Assistant Paul DOBIE Coach Jordan MOORE Physio Marie BULLOCK
CELTIC Manager Paul STONEMAN Assistant Wilf KEILTY Coach Paul HOGG Physio Charlotte FERGUSON
MATCH OFFICIALS Referee S DIAL Assistants J LEE TBC
West Allotment Celtic Ryan BEAL Chris BANNON Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Marc DUMMETT Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Shaun BOYLE Chris DOUGLAS Roy GORDON Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID David BORLEY Matthew SLATER Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Connor GRAHAM Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Lawrence McKENNA Rob NOLAN
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Ryton & Crawcrook Albion Kevin QUIGLEY Conor GILLESPIE David BELOW (c) Leigh SHICKLE Adam CHROSTOWSKI Liam BARKER Orin PARKINSON Callum TURNBULL Stephen CRAME Joshua HOLLAND Lee McGILL Michael POOLEY Paul BASEY Scott GUNN Dean SINCLAIR Tom PHILLIPS Matthew FOTHERGILL Andrew PEACOCK Scott CANHAM David BACKHOUSE
WADE FINANCIAL
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