allotment
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14
ian dunn The longserving club captain on his future
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welcome
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Club Officials
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President Chairman Vice-Chairman Secretary Treasurer Commercial
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contents
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
Committee
the history
4
the squad
6
the backroom staff
9
the last match
10
the last meeting
12
Press Officer
the preview
14
the visitors
16
Backroom Staff
the manager
18
the interview
19
the feature
20
on this day
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the onion bag
23
the player statistics
24
fixtures, results, table
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rottweiler’s notes
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Manager Assistant Manager First Team Coach Physio
Paul Stoneman Wilf Kielty Paul Hogg Charlotte Ferguson
Selected Club Honours Northern Alliance champions
1987, 1991, 1992, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004 Northern League D2 champions 2005 NFA Amateur Cup winners 1957, 1975 NFA Benevolent Bowl winners 1993 Craven Cup winners 2005 Ernest Armstrong Mem. Cup winners 2013
eighty-five Stephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour
from creation to contenders
...and the decade of decline
West Allotment Celtic were formed in 1928, the culmination of a merger between West Allotment Primitive Methodists and West Allotment Juniors. After moving to the newly-created Tynemouth & District League in 1935, the club began to grow in stature. The club had to face Whitley Bay & Monkseaton Reserves in a play-off for the title, but unfortunately, the decider went the way of the seasiders. Remarkably, Allotment also finished in a play-off position in the following two seasons – and, in both cases, had to settle for a runner-up spot.
The sixties started promisingly enough, as Allotment looked to build on their previous successes. The club finished as runners-up in the Northern Amateur League in 1960, and were consecutive Minor Cup finalists in 1960 and 1961.
changing leagues, sheds and times In 1938, the club joined the Second Division of the Northern Amateur League. Now playing at the aptly-named Farm Ground, fans helped to dismantle a cowshed in Heaton and move it, piece by piece, to West Allotment, where it was reassembled at the ground. The shed was not for spectators – it served as the players’ changing facilities! The club earned instant promotion (after a play-off, such is club tradition), but World War II put a stop to any further progress.
a succession of successes... The club recommenced operations in 1946/47 and enjoyed an unprecedented run of success from the mid-fifties onwards. Allotment won the championship for four consecutive seasons between 1956 and 1960, along with the NFA Amateur Cup in 1957 and the NFA Minor Cup in 1958.
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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 Stokesley Sports Club
years in the making of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations... who averaged almost one goal a game in his 400 appearances for the club. Williams was ably supported by a talented and hungry squad, and, with strength in depth, Allotment were always considered title contenders. However, the championship remained tantalisingly out of reach until yet another play-off tie in 1982. Allotment finally won the coveted title, defeating Annitsford Welfare by the odd goal in seven.
Alliance titles, never finishing lower than sixth. Terry Mitchell and Brian Latty built upon Ken Scott and Billy Hays’ consecutive Alliance league titles, leading Allotment into the Northern League.
the modern day
When Celtic retained the title with relative ease the following season, the decision was taken to move up a tier for the first time since 1938.
Having acted as tenants at Hillheads in Whitley Bay since 1995, the club set out to find a new home, and found it in Benton. In 2001, the club moved to Whitley Park, also known as the Blue Flames Sports Ground. The ground is well-known as one of the best kept pitches in the Northern League, and also serves as the headquarters of the Northumberland FA.
the colossus of the alliance In 1983, Allotment made its debut in both the Northern Alliance and the FA Vase. The first honour of the period arrived just one season later, as Allotment dispatched Ponteland United in the Alliance Challenge Cup Final. This success was followed up two seasons later by the first of Celtic’s eight Alliance titles. In 1987, West Allotment emerged victorious from two nail-biting play-off games against Gosforth St. Nicholas, ushering in a wave of success not enjoyed at the club since the fifties. Throughout this period, Celtic won seven further Northern
The club earned promotion from Division Two as champions, losing just twice throughout the entire 2004/05 season. After six seasons of holding their own against the Northern League’s top tier, Allotment slipped back down a league. The current crop have gone some way to restoring success at Allotment, winning the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup last May, and will be aiming for those promotion places this season. the history
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the squad
Chris Bannon GK Age: 26 Formerly of Washington and Hebburn Town, popular and reliable ‘keeper Chris returns to Allotment for a second stint between the sticks, and will jostle with Ryan Beal for the number one jersey.
Glenn Ford CB Age: 29 Glenn rejoined the club during the 2012/13 season, making a handful of solid appearances. Having committed for this coming season, fans can expect to see much more of Glenn and his defensive abilities.
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Ryan Beal GK Age: 25 An excellent shot stopper, Ryan featured extensively in last season’s cup-winning campaign, and will look to consolidate his place with similarly strong performances this season.
GK Chris Bannon GK Ryan Beal GK Bob Rodgerson
CB Simon Wilthew CB Glenn Ford CB Stephen Little CB Paul Stoneman RB John Pendlebury
Bob Rodgerson Stephen Little GK Age: 31 CB Age: 26 A Percy Main Amateurs The ex-Annfield Plain regular, Bob performed and Killingworth stopper admirably when filling shone at the back for in during a goalkeeping Allotment last season, crisis towards the back putting in a series of end of last season, and superlative defensive has registered once again showings, earning the to be our third choice Player’s Player of the Year ‘keeper. Award in the process.
Simon Wilthew John Pendlebury Chris Douglas CB Age: 25 RB Age: 27 RB Age: 29 Simon featured 15 times A first-team regular since The ultimate utility player, at the back for Allotment signing for Allotment Chris can be employed last season. Strong at from Ryton in 2010, anywhere down either centre-half and adept at John’s relentless work flank to devastating left-back, the Monkseaton ethic and tenacious effect. The former North defender will be looking tackling bring stability Shields man’s pace and to build on his impressive to the back four. The perception underpins his debut in the Northern full-back often serves as undoubted ability, be it League. captain in the absence of as a full-back or a wide Ian Dunn. midfielder.
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
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
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the squad
Kallum McGlen RM Age: 21 A former Montagu & North Fenham favourite, Kallum features on the right hand side of midfield, where his energy and technique often causes problems for opposing full-backs.
Liam Hudson ST Age: 25
Tony Lancaster RM Age: 28
Dean Lee LM Age: 30
David Dormand ST Age: 25
Signed from Wark in March 2011. Tony struggled with injuries last term, but will hope to be back to his pacy, dangerous best this season. Tony can also operate as a wholly competent right-back.
A winger with the scoring nous of a striker, the former North Shields man has all of the tools required to strike fear into the hearts of defenders. One of Celtic’s most prolific threats going forward.
David’s prolific record precedes him, and the former Morpeth forward has already replicated his goalscoring form since joining Celtic, topping the charts with 30 goals. A clinical poacher and a hard worker up front.
Lawrence McKenna ST Age: 25
Jed Findlay ST Age: 24
Ryan Anderson ST Age: 18
Another former Ryton Lawrence is wellforward, army soldier travelled, having topped Liam is capable of the scoring charts for pressuring his opposite Whickham, before going numbers into submission on to play for Bedlington with his strength and high Terriers and Newcastle work rate. “Hud” can Benfield. Is known to be also be deployed on the a deadly finisher in the right wing. division.
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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 Stokesley Sports Club
the squad
the backroom staff
Paul Stoneman Player/Manager
Wilf Kielty Assistant Manager
Paul Hogg First Team Coach
Charlotte Ferguson Physiotherapist
The stalwart centre-half has played for Blackpool, Colchester United and Halifax Town. Despite turning 40 last year, ‘Stona’ was ever-present last season, remaining unbeatable in the air and impervious in the tackle.
Right-hand man Wilf has been around the local non-league scene for many years, both as a player and in a management role, giving notable service to North Shields as manager for several seasons.
The UEFA-licensed coach is held in very high regard at North Shields, having played, coached and managed there for over a decade. Paul has also managed Annfield Plain, and is working with the Newcastle United Foundation.
Charlotte is in her final year of her Physiotherapy studies at Northumbria University, and is currently on her final placement at the RVI. She is also a qualified sports masseur.
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Paul Stoneman the backroom staff
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the last match
4TH SEPTEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK
West Allotment Celtic 2 Seaham Red Star 1
A
GOAL in the dying moments from Sean Reid snatched a last-gasp victory for Celtic, as they overcame fellow promotion hopefuls Seaham Red Star by two goals to one. The game’s first real action saw ‘keeper Ryan Beal challenging veteran forward Adam Johnston from behind in the box, but the referee wasn’t interested in the protests. The early threat posed by the visitors was snuffed out almost instantly by Allotment’s dogged pressure on the ball, but the hosts could not test Shaun Newbrook in the Seaham goal for the first thirty minutes, with Dean Lee’s shot charged down by the defender, and wellstruck volleys from Henderson
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and Dormand flying wide of goal. Inevitably, the better side did take the lead just after the halfhour mark. Newbrook did well to parry an initial effort, but only into the path of Dormand, who was presented with the simplest of tap-ins. Both Lee and Dummett fired further chances over the bar, whilst a Johnston set-piece skidded just past the post for Seaham, but Celtic ultimately entered the break with a well-deserved one goal advantage. Stoneman’s charges continued to dominate when the second half recommenced. Centrehalf Glenn Ford saw an effort hacked away from the line following a corner, whilst Reid went close with a curling
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
free-kick, with Newbrook well beaten. The best chance fell to Chris Douglas, but his venomous strike was expertly palmed away by the ‘keeper. Seaham looked to have snatched an unlikely point with their first real chance on goal, as Johnston turned home a set-piece to pull the away side level. They almost stole all three points, but Beal was quick off his line to deny sub Channon North with a pointblank reflex save. Instead, another fresh face determined the victors of the early promotion six-pointer. The newly-introduced Liam Hudson put an enticing ball in behind the defenders, and Reid stooped to head home a lastminute winner. the last match
today’s ball sponsor Roland Mather thank you for your support
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the last meeting
24TH AUGUST 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK
West Allotment Celtic 3 Stokesley 2
D
espite a mediocre performance, West Allotment Celtic made it three wins in four, scoring two late goals to overcome Stokesley at a rain-soaked Whitley Park. Though they dominating in the possession stakes, Paul Stoneman’s side failed to test SSC ‘keeper Thomas Laverick in the first thirty minutes, with Dean Lee’s blocked effort and a harmlessly wide shot from Marc Allen constituting Allotment’s only real attempts on goal. Instead, Stokesley were presented with the first genuine opening of the match. Gerard Richardson believed he was unlawfully knocked to the floor in the box, but sloppy play
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moments later gifted Andrew Lambert a clear sight of goal, only for the attacker to sky the opportunity. When the visitors did get an effort on target, Ryan Beal was there to keep the scores level. A skidding long-range effort from Matthew Robinson looked destined for the bottom corner, only for Beal to tip the fast-travelling ball past the far post. Chances were at a premium, largely down to a distinct lack of creativity on both sides, but it was Allotment who seized the initiative, courtesy of David Dormand. The forward rose unmarked to meet Liam Hudson’s high cross from the right, directing his looped header into the top corner.
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
The home side could have been pulled back before the interval, as Dunn played the ball straight to Richardson just outside the box, but made amends with a fantastic last-ditch tackle. Allotment were fortunate to be ahead at the break, but the lead did not last long upon their return for the second half. A ricocheted Glenn Ford clearance broke kindly for Richardson, who placed his pinpoint strike into the bottom corner. It soon went from bad to worse for Allotment. Right-back Daniel Jones went unnoticed in the penalty area, heading home a looping cross to complete a quickfire turnaround in the visitors’ favour.
Stunned into action, Celtic almost pegged their plucky opponents back immediately. After the referee ignored calls for a penalty in the hosts’ favour, Glenn Ford was presented with an unlikely yard of space on the edge of the box, but his curling shot evaded Laverick’s far post by the tightest of margins. Liam Hudson had another penalty appeal turned down - this time for the use of a hand to block his goalbound shot - but an equaliser looked increasingly unlikely.
...in pictures
Any chance of getting back into the match would likely come from a set-piece - and so it proved ten minutes from time. Ian Dunn nipped ahead of Laverick to get a vital touch to Michael Bell’s knockdown from a corner, and the covering defender could not prevent the ball from crossing the line. Having underperformed in an attacking capacity for much of the match, Celtic pressed for all three points, but any renewed hope of a win seemed to dissipate when Hudson skewed a good chance wide. Stokesley were understandably content to slow the pace, but their gameplan was undone by a foul thirty yards from goal. Up stepped left-back Marc Dummett, who curled a spectacular free-kick around the wall and into the opposite top corner, sparking an impassioned pile-on next to the dugout. the last meeting
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the pre-match preview
form: LWWWW
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
W
HITLEY Park is fast becoming an impenetrable fortress, as West Allotment Celtic have racked up three home wins on the bounce - and four consecutive wins overall. The first of the trio of victories was, arguably, the least deserved, coming against today’s opponents. Allotment have a penchant for late goals, and another timely finish, this time from Sean Reid, afforded Celtic all three points against a previously rampant Seaham Red Star.
STOKESLEY SPORTS CLUB form: DLWWD
W
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HAT has changed in the fourteen days since Stokesley Sports Club last visited Whitley Park? Since losing 3-2 at the death against Allotment a fortnight ago, the Yorkshire outfit have gone on an impressive three-match unbeaten run, picking up seven points from a possible nine. The revival kicked off just two days after the last-gasp loss at Whitley Park, leaving the players little time to dwell on the disappointment of the defeat, as Monty
Midfield maestro David Henderson made his long-awaited season’s debut, lasting one hour before being substituted, and may be deployed in some capacity again today as he approaches match fitness. Likewise, Stephen Little may once again warm up with the side, edging closer to contention with every passing game. Michael Latimer and Michael Bell could return from a virus and work commitments respectively. The availability of the duo could give player-manager Paul Stoneman a selection Alexander’s men played host to Thornaby. In a repeat of the opening day, it was lively midfielder Connor Hood and star man Gary Redman who got amongst the goals in a comfortable 3-1 win, with the former helping himself to a brace. The next game, a trip to surprise package Heaton Stan, would prove to be a far trickier affair. Matthew Robinson and Nathan Graham both saw efforts rattle the woodwork, before new boy Reece Kelly scored what proved to be the game’s only goal just after
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
headache, with all three of Celtic’s midfield men impressing on Wednesday night. Captain Ian Dunn will expect to regain his place in the heart of that midfield, whilst Liam Hudson could be in line to start on the right ahead of Chris Douglas. With the squad now approaching its strongest form in terms of availability and performance, Stoneman could once again opt to shuffle the pack, with wingerTony Lancaster and forward Jed Findlay the only long-term absentees. the hour mark. Resolute defending sealed a narrow win for the visiting side. Recent signing Kelly has certainly made an impression, scoring twice in Stokesley’s 2-2 draw at Northallerton, where only a last-minute equaliser denied SSC a thoroughly deserved win. This Stokesley side is, according to Mike Amos, the best team that “I or anyone else can remember”. Celtic know it all too well, and will be eager to avoid a nerve-jangling repeat of two Saturdays ago.
Double act David Dormand and Liam Hudson have both started the season in fine form, with the former bagging three goals in the last three games, and the latter providing two key assists from his newly-accustomed role on the right flank. With Liam likely to be returning to the line-up, expect the two attackers to combine once again today.
statattack 65
The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park
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The number of goals scored by SSC midfielders thus far
previous meetings P 3 2 4
Centre-half Lloyd Evans and his back four held out for much of the second half against an often profligate Celtic side a fortnight ago. Two of Allotment’s three goals came from set-pieces something SSC will have to be wary of this afternoon.
WD 3 0 1 0 3 0
33 2
L 0 1 1
F A 9 4 3 2 12 6
The number of points separating the sides last season Number of goals Liam Hudson scored against SSC last year
the preview
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stokesley
the history S
ince being established in 1920, Stokesley has had various teams playing in local football leagues.These were the Stokesley & District League, Langbaurgh League and the South Bank & District League. During that time, they played on a number of pitches around the town. The Bypass, Springfield and sharing with the original cricket team before being evicted in 1963 when the pitch was sacrificed to make way for the new town bypass. The club continued to move for another twentynine years, before eventually settling back at the Sports Club (the expanded Cricket Club). Stokesley have won many cups over the years, with most success coming in the Jefferson Cup (fourteen wins), a local cup played at the start and end of the season depending on the weather in the winter period. In seasons 1977, 1978 and 1979, Stokesley won the Second division of the South Bank & District League. Next season, they were crowned champions on the First Division, and also won the Barnard Bowl. The club has run two teams for many years
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and, in the season of 1994, Stokesley’s first team entered the Teesside League. As the club grew and an increasing number of people showed interest in playing football, a Sunday team was formed. This team entered the Hambleton Combination, where they won promotion in three consecutive years from the Fourth to the First Division. They also won four cup competitions in that time. In season 1999-2000, Stokesley added a third Saturday team by joining the Wearside League. This latest period has been Stokesley’s most successful, as they competed in no fewer than twelve cup finals, and ultimately won seven of them. In 2004, Stokesley Sports Club and the North Riding Football Association won a lottery grant for £894,000 to build a new clubhouse, develop pitches and improve the main pitch to meet Northern League standards. The prize was winning promotion to Division Two in 2006 and achieving a five-year plan. In their first season in the Northern League, they achieved a creditable eighth position and reached the semi-final in the Ernest Armstrong Trophy. The club made steady progress, becoming Division Two champions in season 2009/10, as well as reaching the final of the North Riding Senior Cup. During the 2010/11 campaign, their first in Division One, they changed their name to Stokesley FC, and finished in sixteenth position. The club reverted back to their old name of Stokesley Sports Club, but suffered relegation back to Division Two in 2012, and will be hoping to re-establish themselves in the coming years.
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
sports club the players Thomas Laverick
Goalkeeper Laverick became Stokesley’s first-choice stopper in February, appearing 17 times for SSC last season, but faces stiff competition from former Billingham Town man Ryan Hodgson.
Daniel Jones
Up-and-coming utility man Jones is entering his third season with the North Yorkshire club, and has started brightly - earning two man-ofthe-match awards in his first three games.
Matthew Robinson
At the tender age of 20, leftback Matthew has made the position his own since joining the club in 2011. The highly rated defender appeared twenty times last season for the club, and has started all four games so far this season.
Martin McManus
The former Hartlepool United junior was brought to the club by former Pools boss Chris Lax, and notching up 30 appearances at the back last year.
Kris Kamara
Formerly of New Marske, the experienced player-coach is a hard player to pin down in midfield when fit and in his best form.
Connor Hood
Young prospect Hood has staked his claim for a place in the starting line-up with some assured performances in midfield, even grabbing a headed goal against Washington in the opener.
Alex Caisley
22-year-old Caisley has turned out for Division One side West Auckland, and graduated from Northallerton’s academy side. The wide man will be looking to impress with the rival Yorkshire outfit.
Andrew Lambert
Ashley Lavan
One of Stokesley’s wiser heads, former Durham City man Lambert brings a wealth of Northern League experience to the side, be it within the back four or a more advanced role in midfield.
Young prospect Lavan looked sharp and prolific whilst playing for East Durham College and Grangetown, and got off the mark with the opener in Stokesley’s 3-1 win against Washington.
Gary Redman
Shaun Makin
Undoubtedly Stokesley’s star player, wide man Gary joined the club from Thornaby in 2011, and has become an ever-present on the wing. Dangerous in possession and with an ever keener eye for goal, Redman will certainly be one to watch this afternoon.
Centre-forward Makin has bags of Wearside League experience, and played under Monty Alexander at New Marske along with his brother Michael. Shaun will undoubtedly add strength to Stokesley’s forward line.
the visitors
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PAUL STONEMAN’S TAKE ON RECENT EVENTS AT WHITLEY PARK...
“I would’ve been gutted if we had drawn 1-1” ...AND A LOOK AHEAD TO TODAY’S FIXTURE
the Seaham result
there, but if I’m being brutally honest, I don’t think they deserved anything from the On the whole, I would have game. We deserved the three been absolutely gutted if we had’ve come in and drawn 1-1. points, and I’m just pleased we I would have been devastated, got them. as I thought we were the better side by a country mile. Their lads, when we’ve shaken their hands at the end, they’ve said the same, that we deserved that. I’m over the moon. Our heads could have gone down when they equalised, but to be fair, our lads realised that we deserved that, so we kept going, kept plugging and got our rewards at the end. We changed the squad around a little bit, and Hudson’s impact on the lads who have come in have done a great job again, so the right wing I’m happy.Very happy! The left-back just got rid of Chris Douglas and thought the penalty appeals “I’ve seen him off”, and then The handball definitely wasn’t Liam Hudson comes on and absolutely tears him apart. I felt one, because that was against sorry for the kid, to be fair. But me! It was never a handball. Hudson got told to get past his The one in the first half, I can man and put the ball in the box, understand where they’re and the final ball he put in there coming from, as there was a for the goal was unreal, and I’m coming together, and if it was just pleased that Reidy got on against us, we would have felt the end of it. aggrieved, to be fair, so they probably did have a shout
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Allotment’s malleable gameplan When we played Willington away, I picked the biggest team I could. We knew it was going to be a battle, we’d done our homework on them. We did alright against Whickham on Friday night, eleven versus eleven, but we didn’t use the ball as well as what we can.Tonight, we knew we had footballers all across the pitch. We played through the middle third, and I thought we were excellent. We played some good stuff, some nice little ten yard triangles. It was good to watch, I would think.
fa vase progress
It would be nice. We don’t want to look too far ahead, as we nearly got a fright here against Stokesley a couple of weeks ago. I’m pleased in a way, as the lads know that they can’t take it for granted now. We know that they’ll come here and give us a good game. We’ll have to be ready for it this time, we can’t take anything for granted. We nearly got our fingers burned against‘A’them In partnership with West Allotment Celtic teamtwo weeks ago.
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
the manager
a brief chat with...
Ian Dunn
T
HE longest-serving outfield player at the club, Ian Dunn evaluates the Seaham performance, extols the virtues of Paul Stoneman’s strong squad, and discusses his future at Whitley Park.
the performance against Seaham
you wouldn’t see a great dip in performance, I think. He’s got a squad I thought we played very well. where he can change one In all three thirds of the pitch or two personnel every we dominated, especially in the week and you wouldn’t really see a difference. I think people middle of the park. I thought can slot in, and lads that are on Marc Allen had an excellent game, the back four controlled the bench are not necessarily worse players - they can come it. We missed a few chances in and do as good a job as - it could have been more comfortable - but all in all, we anyone that is starting the outperformed them, outfought game. them, and looked the better the ‘worldy’ goals side throughout the game.
on being rested I’m always disappointed to miss any game, whether it’s a big team or one of the little teams. It’s disappointing, but I understand the decision - got to give lads a chance, you cannot just turn up every week and not get a kick. It’s just one of those things!
strength in depth? Of the 21, 22 lads he’s got, he (Stoneman) can pretty much interchange the majority, and
If Paul Hogg would let me move from just in front of the back four, I think I could be a regular goalscorer! But he’s very disciplined in the role that he gives me. Tongue in cheek!
on his future at Allotment I wouldn’t want to move from the club.You couldn’t ask for a better pitch to play on, a better set of lads. It all depends on fitness and how it goes. I rely a lot on getting around the pitch, so as soon as I can’t get around
the pitch then I’ll look at it again.
promotion possible? Definitely. As long as we keep battling for every ninety minutes and keep scrapping for every point, I can’t see why we cannot push for promotion. the interview
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big sam, meet the little stonas Celtic manager - and former Blackpool man - Paul Stoneman is reunited with his former boss at Whitley Park In 1994, the future looked bright for up-and-coming defender Paul Stoneman.
Bamber. But, after surviving relegation by the skin of their teeth on a shoestring budget, chairman Owen Oyston rang The 21-year-old had spent the changes. Ayre made way for three largely fruitful years in young schemer Sam Allardyce, the seaside town of Blackpool. not yet wide enough to earn Under the watchful tutilage the moniker by which he is of fellow Geordie migrant currently well-known. Once Billy Ayre - in the managerial he strode through the gates at hotseat after succeeding Bloomfield Road, Stona’s days former boss (and current at the club were numbered. The Newcastle United Chief promising stopper was released Scout) Graham Carr - the forthwith, deemed surplus to centre-half racked up almost requirements by the Seasiders’ fifty appearances in a tangerine new gaffer. shirt. He even formed part of the squad that earned Nineteen years later, both men promotion to the new stand together at a mutually Division Two in 1992, playing familiar ground. It served as alongside such esteemed an auxiliary pitch for Big Sam’s luminaries as future reserve side during his troubled England winger stint at Newcastle United, Trevor Sinclair and and is currently the home of club legend Dave Stoneman’s West Allotment
Celtic side. It’s the day before two big games - West Ham’s trip to St. James’ Park, and Allotment’s first home game of the season after a mixed start on the road. The Hammers were undertaking their final preparations for their second game of the campaign, and Allotment’s player-manager had decided to take a trip down to Blue Flames to see the briefest of his employers. “Smailesy (club president Alex Smailes) gave me the shout to say that they were coming to train here, and I thought I’d come and see him,” explained Stoneman. “He was the manager who released me from Blackpool, funny enough. It was 1995 when I got released, so I came over to watch them train.”
sam allardyce
20
Big Sam was sacked as Blackpool manager after failing to win promotion, but, after managing the feat with Notts County, returned to Bolton, leading the club to its highest finish and UEFA Cup qualification. A turbulent spell at Newcastle followed, before Allardyce restored his reputation at Blackburn Rovers - only to be dismissed unexpectedly by the new board. West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
Any bitter animosity that may have once existed between the rejected player and then-inexperienced manager has long since simmered, with both coaches sharing a mutual respect. “I’ve always had a bit of a grievance with him for letting me go, but to be fair he was good as gold,” admitted the veteran centre-half. “He recognised me, came straight over and had a bit of craic with me. He had his picture taken with the twins. It was an experience, and it was good to see him again.” The next afternoon, both parties could just about be pleased with their days’ work. Celtic came from behind to snatch a win against Stokesley, whilst Allardyce’s West Ham held his old side to a dour but satisfactory goalless draw. Big Sam headed back south on the Saturday night not just with one more point on the board, but with the respect of a player he cut loose almost two decades ago.
Above: Stoneman’s boys with the West Ham United manager
paul stoneman
Stona went on to establish himself as a Halifax Town stalwart, appearing over 150 times for the Shaymen, being named the club’s greatest ever player by the PFA in 2007. The centre-half was also the club’s youth team coach, and, after spells at Harrogate and Wakefield, took up a player-coach role at Bridlington and had a spell at Bradford Park Avenue, but ultimately returned home to the North East. the feature
21
on this day...
Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history
1946
1968
Celtic came out on top in one of their first competitive games since the resumption of the Northern Amateur league after the Second World War. The team squeezed to a 2-1 win at home to Northumberland Square Presbyterians.
1974 Wilson, Williams, Taylor and Breeze shared the scoring as Allotment sustained their excellent start to the Northern Amateur league season. However, after the 11-0 and 8-0 thrashing of New Delaval Star and Northumberland College respectively, Michell Bearings could feel reasonably happy at restricting Celtic to a 4-2 victory.
2005 Allotment played host to a young Shildon outfit, and, despite going behind early on, Celtic soon rallied, Andy Hay’s header levelling the scores before half-time. The striker grabbed his second just before the hour mark, evading two tackles before slamming high into the net, before Michael Dixon’s first goal for the club secured all three points for the home side. The win moved Celtic back into the top four - an impressive start to their debut ANL Division One season.
22
A milestone in Celtic’s history as they rattled up their highest ever score in a competitive match. Smiths Dock were the team on the receiving end of a 16-0 annihilation in the first round of the NFA Minor Cup. The goals were shared between just four players. The prolific Ian Halliday helped himself to seven while both Ray Taylor and Michael Whinn grabbed four apiece. Studley rounded off the massacre. However, the record score was somewhat of an oasis in a series of depressing seasons for West Allotment as the sixties came to a close.
1996 Celtic played a “home” match at Benfield Park (now Sam Smith’s Park) due to Whitley Bay having first claim on Hillheads. Seal gave Holker Old Boys an early lead following some shambolic defending and the home cause was hindered by the dismissal of Baird for foul language soon afterwards. Despite being a man down, Celtic always threatened to grab an equaliser before a late strike from Livingstone settled the FA Vase tie in the Cumbrians’ favour.
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
on this day
the onion bag Craig Dobson’s take on the last seven days in the Allotment garden
A
LLOTMENT, it is fair to say, are perhaps one of the quieter teams in with a shout for promotion. Not in terms of the decibel levels - Chairman Roland’s impassioned bellows can be heard around the Rising Sun for some time after but according to the results. Aside from the opening day drubbing of Alnwick, Celtic’s scorelines have remained somewhat modest. The margin against Willington and Whickham was a comfortable two goals; the difference between ourselves and Stokesley was even tighter. Meanwhile, other promotion pushers have been uprooting trees in their quest for ascension. North Shields have caught the eye, scoring goals as though they were going out of fashion. Second in the GD stakes are Seaham Red Star, a dangerous attacking outfit who had found the net three or more times in all but one of their league fixtures. They were expected - and expecting - to bring that threat up the A19 on Wednesday night. And yet, for the majority of the game, the Star were dimmed, outshone in particular by Celtic’s midfield
three. Henderson, Reid and Allen may have been playing together for the first time this season, but it certainly didn’t look like it. The trio utterly dominated the game for the hosts, Reid’s relentless pressure enforcing sloppy errors by his Seaham counterparts, and allowing Henderson time on the ball. A little deeper, Marc Allen was there to mop up any fledgling attacks and kickstart Allotment’s own responses. It was a splendid and at times mesmerising performance from a midfield five without Dunn, Hudson, Bell and Latimer. For the visitors, the dangerous Adam Johnston showed why he was the division’s second-highest scorer, putting himself about and being denied what looked like a clear penalty, following a challenge from ‘keeper Beal. It was to be one of the Star’s two isolated chances as Celtic dominated. The opening goal was yet another Dormand tap-in - right place, right time, and the right man to do it. The opposing manager was less focussed on his side’s inability to get into the game, instead training his less than family-friendly mouth on the ref’s ear at half-time. For Colly, the second
goal of the week
Man of the week
Reidy’s stooping header at the death - a great finish from a terrific Hudson cross.
The diminuitive midfielder quietly bossed the game in the middle of the park with a typically assured performance.
half looked little better from the stands, as Celtic continued in much the same way. On came Channon North, and, in the 75th minute, the Star had an unlikely equaliser from a set-piece though their rangy talisman was nowhere to be seen. Instead, it was Johnston who reacted quickest to turn the ball past Beal. In response, Allotment threw on Liam Hudson. The attacker is colloquially known as “powerhouse” - and full-back David Short soon found out why. The substitute easily bustled past his man before delivering an absolute peach of a cross. The ball bounced between the ‘keeper and the back four, to be met by the incoming Sean Reid. The pure joy of a last-gasp goal, the relief at having taken all three points, the release of those jangling nerves. It made for one hell of a finale. Celtic may not be putting six and seven past teams on a regular basis, but they score when it matters against the top teams. Say it quietly, now - whisper it if needs be - Allotment are one of the favourites. Hopefully we’ll be shouting it from the rooftops come April.
the onion bag
23
top scorers
player statistics
Michael Bell - 2 Chris Douglas - 2 Liam Hudson - 2
gk
the playmakers
yel
Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson
4 3 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
4 (1) 7 5 (1) 0 (1) 7 0 2 (2) 7 0 (3)
1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 2 0 1 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
6 (1) 5 (1) 2 (2) 5 1 (2) 1 0 (2) 6
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 2 0 1 1 0 0 0
2 0 1 4 0 0 0 1
5 7 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
2 0 0
0 3 0
midfield
Sean Reid - 4 David Dormand - 3 Ian Dunn - 2
apps
defence
name
attack
the mainstays
Marc Dummett - 7 Paul Stoneman - 7 Glenn Ford - 7
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 (3)
the bad boys
Dean Lee - 1 0 Chris Bannon - 1 0 Marc Dummett - 1 0
red asts
Hudson
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
Dummett
Bell Reid
Lee
Dormand the player statistics
fixtures and results nl div 2 table
1
team Birtley
pl 7
w 5
d 2
l 0
gd pts 12 17
2
North Shields
6
5
1
0
26 16
3
Heaton Stan
8
5
1
2
7
4
Seaham
7
5
0
2
16 15
5
WAC
6
5
0
1
9
6
Northallerton
7
4
2
1
12 14
7
Alnwick
8
4
2
2
0
14
8
Whickham
8
4
1
3
4
13
9
Jarrow
6
4
0
2
5
12
10 Stokesley
8
3
2
3
0
11
11 Nort & Stock
8
2
4
2
1
10
12 Darlo RA
6
3
0
3
3
9
13 Tow Law
7
3
0
4
-3
9
14 Ch-le-Street
7
2
2
3
-3
8
15 Brandon
8
2
2
4
-10
8
16 Whitehaven
5
2
1
2
-9
7
17 Thornaby
8
1
3
4
-6
6
18 Willington
8
1
3
4
-7
6
19 Esh Winning
8
2
0
6
-19
6
20 South Shields
4
0
2
2
-5
2
21 Ryton
7
0
1
6
-10
1
22 Washington
7
0
1
6
-23
1
16 15
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 Tow Law Town 21st TBD 28th Darlington RA
NL D2 FA Vase NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 FA Vase NL D2
H H A H H A A
W 2-1
OCTOBER Whitehaven 5th Chester-le-Street 8th 12th Birtley Town 19th Ryton & Crawcrook 26th North Shields 30th Northallerton Town
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A A H 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
Lg Cup NL D2
H A
TBD Ryton & Crawcrook South Shields
fixtures, results, table
25
ee itt m m ing Co eet m pm 8
rottweiler’s notes
Rin g Bloo the dho un
d!
29th Aug
No Morgan today, so I am dragged off to Newcastle. Fed up with having to travel around the coast on the Metro to Newcastle. Normal service resumes on Saturday after a one month closure and it can’t come quick enough. Speak to manager at John Lewis about my ongoing problem with Sony after buying a new television and I can’t speak highly enough of John Lewis, superb customer service.
30th Aug
Morgan, who is only five, asks me why I am taking tablets (Diabetic) today. Try and explain to Morgan that they help your blood sugar levels; to cut the story short, she asks if I will die if I don’t take the tablets and I tell her that I will and I will be really sad if I don’t see her grow up, so that is why I am taking the tablets. Morgan replies, “You can’t be sad if you are dead.” How does a five year old come out with that statement? What are they teaching them at school nowadays? Anyway, on to happier times, and we earn a good three points with a 3 – 1 win over Whickham. Excellent crowd and really good to see Leo Osborn (League Chaplain) at the game tonight. Friday night games are really worth the effort.
31 Aug
Match assessor at Sunderland RCA v Bedlington Terriers, and upon my arrival discover the referee has injured his back lifting his bag out of his car. Assistant referee Lindsey Robinson referees the game and under the circumstances she does very well. For those who don’t understand Lindsey is a Level Four referee (Northern League Division Two) and she referees a Level Three game today.
1st Sept
Due to my bad back, unable to drive to Liverpool today, Barbara not very happy is an understatement. I watch the North West derby and the North London derby, and I must say the London game was a much better affair.
2nd Sept
Barbara goes off to Newcastle and mercifully she can’t drag me along, as I am match assessor at Newcastle U21 v West Ham U21 (1pm kick off) - not a bad game, with Newcastle losing 5 – 4, having been three goals up after only 11 minutes.
3rd Sept
Morgan returns to school today and proudly tells me that she is a big girl now as she is in Year One. Attend committee meeting and, thanks to Morgan’s initials, I am one of the 16 winners, along with two other members of the committee - one of whom is the bloodhound.
4th Sept
Barbara and I have a day out in Morpeth, and as we are walking through the shopping centre, Barbara says, “Look at the “b****” on that.” I say to her, “What the hell are you talking about?”, and she points at a statue of a bull. More words were exchanged but I will not elaborate any more - just use your imagination! Barbara is 64 years old and I do wonder what goes through her mind at times. Great result tonight against a very physical, intimidating and foul-mouthed team, along with very poor conduct in their technical area.
st
26
West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club
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 Manager: Paul STONEMAN
Stokesley Sports Club Manager: Monty ALEXANDER
Chris BANNON Ryan BEAL Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Roy GORDON Marc DUMMETT Michael LATIMER Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Chris DOUGLAS Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Jed FINDLAY Ryan ANDERSON Lawrence McKENNA Referee: M BUNTING Assistants: A
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