allotment
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14
making a point ninety minutes - and one positive result - stands between allotment and the top tier
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welcome 16
Club Officials
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President Chairman Vice-Chairman Secretary Treasurer Commercial
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contents
Committee
the history
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the squad
6
the backroom staff
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the last match
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the last meeting
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the preview
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the visitors
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on this day
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the letter draw
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the onion bag
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making a point
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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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Press Officer Photographer
Alex Smailes Roland Mather Jimmy Wilson Ted Ilderton John Alexander Jonny Thompson David Dodds Paul Mason Above, plus Al Liddle,Michael Wilson, Les Scott, Kath Orr, Harry Bell, Stephen Allott, Richie Marks Craig Dobson Graeme Jackson
Backroom Staff Manager Assistant Manager First Team Coach Physio
Paul Stoneman Wilf Kielty Paul Hogg Charlotte Ferguson
Selected Club Honours Northern Alliance champions
1987, 1991, 1992, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004 Northern League D2 champions 2005 NFA Amateur Cup winners 1957, 1975 NFA Benevolent Bowl winners 1993 Craven Cup winners 2005 Ernest Armstrong Mem. Cup winners 2013
eighty-five Stephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour
from creation to contenders
...and the decade of decline
West Allotment Celtic were formed in 1928, the culmination of a merger between West Allotment Primitive Methodists and West Allotment Juniors. After moving to the newly-created Tynemouth & District League in 1935, the club began to grow in stature. The club had to face Whitley Bay & Monkseaton Reserves in a play-off for the title, but unfortunately, the decider went the way of the seasiders. Remarkably, Allotment also finished in a play-off position in the following two seasons – and, in both cases, had to settle for a runner-up spot.
The sixties started promisingly enough, as Allotment looked to build on their previous successes. The club finished as runners-up in the Northern Amateur League in 1960, and were consecutive Minor Cup finalists in 1960 and 1961.
changing leagues, sheds and times In 1938, the club joined the Second Division of the Northern Amateur League. Now playing at the aptly-named Farm Ground, fans helped to dismantle a cowshed in Heaton and move it, piece by piece, to West Allotment, where it was reassembled at the ground. The shed was not for spectators – it served as the players’ changing facilities! The club earned instant promotion (after a play-off, such is club tradition), but World War II put a stop to any further progress.
a succession of successes... The club recommenced operations in 1946/47 and enjoyed an unprecedented run of success from the mid-fifties onwards. Allotment won the championship for four consecutive seasons between 1956 and 1960, along with the NFA Amateur Cup in 1957 and the NFA Minor Cup in 1958.
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West Allotment Celtic v Washington
However, whilst Celtic remained loyal to the Northern Amateur League, the bulk of the team moved on, and Allotment entered a period of decline as a result. The club stagnated badly during the sixties in an uncompetitive league, and closure become a distinctly worrying possibility. The threat of dissolution was eventually staved off by the introduction of new blood into the club towards the end of the decade, as Allotment finally began to build towards a more positive future on and off the pitch. Celtic also moved to Backworth Welfare in 1968, consigning the ponds and mud of the Farm Ground to memory.
champions at long last A rejuvenated West Allotment won the NFA Amateur Cup again in 1975, largely thanks to the goalscoring exploits of Benny Williams,
years in the making of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations... who averaged almost one goal a game in his 400 appearances for the club. Williams was ably supported by a talented and hungry squad, and, with strength in depth, Allotment were always considered title contenders. However, the championship remained tantalisingly out of reach until yet another play-off tie in 1982. Allotment finally won the coveted title, defeating Annitsford Welfare by the odd goal in seven.
Alliance titles, never finishing lower than sixth. Terry Mitchell and Brian Latty built upon Ken Scott and Billy Hays’ consecutive Alliance league titles, leading Allotment into the Northern League.
the modern day
When Celtic retained the title with relative ease the following season, the decision was taken to move up a tier for the first time since 1938.
Having acted as tenants at Hillheads in Whitley Bay since 1995, the club set out to find a new home, and found it in Benton. In 2001, the club moved to Whitley Park, also known as the Blue Flames Sports Ground. The ground is well-known as one of the best kept pitches in the Northern League, and also serves as the headquarters of the Northumberland FA.
the colossus of the alliance In 1983, Allotment made its debut in both the Northern Alliance and the FA Vase. The first honour of the period arrived just one season later, as Allotment dispatched Ponteland United in the Alliance Challenge Cup Final. This success was followed up two seasons later by the first of Celtic’s eight Alliance titles. In 1987, West Allotment emerged victorious from two nail-biting play-off games against Gosforth St. Nicholas, ushering in a wave of success not enjoyed at the club since the fifties. Throughout this period, Celtic won seven further Northern
The club earned promotion from Division Two as champions, losing just twice throughout the entire 2004/05 season. After six seasons of holding their own against the Northern League’s top tier, Allotment slipped back down a league. The current crop have gone some way to restoring success at Allotment, winning the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup last May, and will be aiming for those promotion places this season. the history
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the squad
Chris Bannon GK Age: 26 Formerly of Washington and Hebburn Town, popular and reliable ‘keeper Chris returns to Allotment for a second stint between the sticks, and will jostle with Ryan Beal for the number one jersey.
Glenn Ford CB Age: 29 Glenn rejoined the club during the 2012/13 season, making a handful of solid appearances. Having committed for this coming season, fans can expect to see much more of Glenn and his defensive abilities.
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Ryan Beal GK Age: 25 An excellent shot stopper, Ryan featured extensively in last season’s cup-winning campaign, and will look to consolidate his place with similarly strong performances this season.
GK Chris Bannon GK Ryan Beal GK Bob Rodgerson 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 Washington
RB Chris Douglas LB Marc Dummett CM David Borley CM Roy Gordon CM Ian Dunn
CM Marc Allen CM David Henderson CM Michael Bell CM Sean Reid RM Kallum McGlen
Marc Dummett LB Age: 26 The former Ponteland United and Dunston fullback has proven to be an asset to the club in both defence and attack. His crossing ability in both regular play and from set-pieces is second to none.
Roy Gordon CM Age: 31 Roy rejoins Celtic for a second spell, having last played for the club during the 2011/12 season. Able to play in a number of positions, the experienced utility man has also turned out for North Shields, Consett and Annfield Plain.
Michael Bell CM Age: 22 Brimming with potential, “Belly” won the Under-19 National Schools Cup with Northumberland and has also represented Ryton. Bell is unbeatable in the air, and can also operate on the wing and as a supporting striker.
RM Tony Lancaster LM Paul Chapman 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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West Allotment Celtic v Washington
Rob Nolan ST Age: 24 Signed from Cramlington Rob scored 30 goals for North Shields before Town last February, Jed earning his big move to is a promising forward with plenty of attacking Blyth Spartans, and after brief spells at Whitley potential. Having made a Bay and Bedlington, the handful of appearances last season, the striker clinical forward is looking to once again make his will be hoping to get mark upon Division Two. more game time this campaign.
the squad
the backroom staff
Paul Stoneman Player/Manager
Wilf Kielty Assistant Manager
Paul Hogg First Team Coach
Charlotte Ferguson Physiotherapist
The stalwart centre-half has played for Blackpool, Colchester United and Halifax Town. Despite turning 40 last year, ‘Stona’ was ever-present last season, remaining unbeatable in the air and impervious in the tackle.
Right-hand man Wilf has been around the local non-league scene for many years, both as a player and in a management role, giving notable service to North Shields as manager for several seasons.
The UEFA-licensed coach is held in very high regard at North Shields, having played, coached and managed there for over a decade. Paul has also managed Annfield Plain, and is working with the Newcastle United Foundation.
Charlotte is in her final year of her Physiotherapy studies at Northumbria University, and is currently on her final placement at the RVI. She is also a qualified sports masseur.
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Paul Stoneman the backroom staff
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the last match
5TH APRIL 2014 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO BOLDON C.A. SPORTS GROUND
Jarrow Roofing 0 West Allotment Celtic 2
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WO first-half goals from Stephen Little and Liam Hudson were enough to see West Allotment Celtic defeat fierce rivals Jarrow Roofing on their own turf - moving to within a point Division One football in the process. The mouthwatering tie had long been billed as a potential promotion decider, with the two places below North Shields very much up for grabs. The Roofers came out of the blocks with intent, pinning back Allotment in the opening exchanges, but their menacing front three could not find a way through. Allotment soon regained their bearings, impressing their brand of football onto the game as
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the half progressed. Sean Reid and Ian Dunn saw respective headers and shots miss the target, and a further attempt by Liam Hudson, under pressure and on the turn, forced ‘keeper Andy Hunter to make his first stop of the day. The visitors should have been awarded for their increasing presence in the game when David Henderson forced full-back Jamie Marshall into surrendering possession on the edge of the box, but the midfielder lashed wide with the goal at his mercy. Nevertheless, it was Celtic who took the lead prior to the half hour mark. Marc Dummett’s corner was nodded back into the mix by John Pendlebury, where Stephen Little helped it
West Allotment Celtic v Washington
into the back of the net. Within seven minutes, a confident-looking Celtic had doubled their advantage. Pendlebury grabbed his second assist of the afternoon, whipping in a cross from the right that was met by Hudson, the winger ghosting inside to nod home from close range. Only Hunter kept the Roofers in it before the whistle, denying the wily Rob Nolan with a parried stop, and he was at full stretch to tip a goalbound Dummett set piece away from the top corner. The free kick itself was dubious, as Henderson looked to have been well inside the box when he was tugged back by Ian Dixon.
Allotment had surrendered a two goal advantage in the reverse fixture, but resolute defending throughout the second half ensured that a repeat was never on the cards. Paul Stoneman and Sean Reid threw themselves in front of venomous strikes, and Ryan Beal proved his worth when belatedly called into action, producing a fine save with his fingertips to divert Shaun Heads’ stinging drive over the crossbar.
...in pictures with graeme jackson
Faced with increasingly desperate waves of pressure, Celtic dug in, the back four, Dunn and Bell in particular working hard to shut down the prolific Roofers and retain posession where possible. The hosts’ best opportunity came off the inadvertent boot of Celtic’s player-manager, Stoneman almost slicing a corner away from Beal’s hands and into his own top corner. Nolan could even have added gloss to the victory as stoppage time approached. The forward was gifted possession by Hunter but struck his oneon-one tamely at the relieved ‘keeper. The win was arguably Allotment’s most important of the season, and the performance ought to rank amongst their best in a fruitful campaign. Seaham’s late win at Birtley delayed the promotion party, but it did not take the shine off a tremendously gutsy victory on South Tyneside. the last match
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the last meeting
16TH NOVEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO NISSAN SPORTS COMPLEX
Washington 2 West Allotment Celtic 3
A
SEAN Reid brace and a rare goal from Stephen Little proved enough to see West Allotment Celtic past a new-look Washington outfit, holding off a late charge from the hosts to win 3-2 on Saturday afternoon. The rejuvenated Mechanics have experienced an upturn in fortunes since Stephen Hutchinson took the reins in September, losing just one of their last eight games, but Allotment emerged with the edge in an often scrappy and disjointed encounter at the Nissan Sports Complex. Celtic were first to probe, a long throw from David Dormand making its way
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into the box, with ‘keeper Neal Atkinson getting there just ahead of Liam Hudson. The 25-year-old ‘keeper was soon called into action once more, parrying away a Sean Reid strike, before beating Dormand to the rebound. Another trademark throw from Dormand was flicked into the path of Ian Dunn by his player-manager Paul Stoneman, but the captain could only send a looping header over the crossbar.
test, had James Fairley’s dangerous cross not been cleared from danger by the faultless Little.
Conversely, returning Allotment custodian Ryan Beal had little to do in the opening minutes, or indeed the first half, with Ryan McGuinness’s wayward effort constituting the Wash’s only attempt on goal. They may have provided the visiting ‘keeper with a more meaningful
The goal brought Allotment out of their shell, and some fine football from David Henderson should have yielded a second goal within minutes. The fleet-footed midfielder embarked upon a thirty yard run, bamboozling at least three defenders en route to
West Allotment Celtic v Washington
With little quality on show from either side, a goal always looked likely to come from a set-piece, and so it proved after twenty-nine minutes. Reid did not have to rise to meet Chris Douglas’ fine corner, instead cushioning his header in at the back post to put the away side ahead.
Washington’s final third, before laying it into the path of the onside Dormand. However, the striker dallied on the ball, affording Alan Oliver the opportunity to recover and muscle possession away from him. Celtic did not dwell on the miss, extending their lead five minutes before half-time. The same two players were once more involved in the goal, Reid nodding home an inch-perfect Michael Bell cross, after neat interplay from the latter and full-back Douglas down the right flank. It could have been even better for Allotment heading into the break, but Atkinson backpedalled well to tip over Hudson’s audacious chip, whilst Dormand’s wellstruck effort moments later was too central to unduly trouble the ‘keeper. Nevertheless, Allotment took a commanding lead into the break, and, despite two changes from the home bench, continued where they left off. Marc Dummett’s pinpoint pass towards Dormand was expertly brought down by the forward, who lashed a halfvolley into the side netting. Stirred by some undoubtedly strong words in the dressing room, Washington belatedly created their first real chance of the afternoon, a goalmouth scramble drifting out towards Aaron Croft just inside the area, but the full-back, pushed
into midfield for the second half, drilled harmlessly wide. Just as the hosts looked to halve the deficit, Celtic got a third, with Reid and Douglas taking centre stage once again. The latter’s corner created havoc in the box, the ball never settling in the six yard area, before Reid got a decisive touch back towards Stephen Little, who finished – and celebrated – emphatically. Allotment may have been three goals to the good with little more than ten minutes left on the clock, but they allowed their hosts to creep back into the game late on. A clumsy tackle from Little on the edge of the area handed Michael Coughlan a shooting opportunity, and he took it with aplomb, curling a low freekick around the wall and into Beal’s far corner. Their tails up, Washington pressed for a second, looking to initiate what seemed to be the most unlikely of comebacks. Paul Kane saw an effort bobble wide of the near post, before centre-half Nathan Johnson forced a fine save from Beal, his rasping drive pushed away from danger by the Suffolk-born stopper. He was almost caught out by a speculative wayward cross from McGuinness that dipped towards the top corner, only to nestle onto the roof of the net, before the left-back skied a more meaningful effort moments later.
The game was well beyond its allotted stoppage time when Washington did find the target, Kane collecting a pass from the right and curling high into the net, but any jittery nerves amongst the away supporters were soon calmed by the final whistle moments later, signalling the end of a contest that Celtic should have won in more comfortable fashion. That said, the battling performance – and the three points that came with it – pushes West Allotment back up to fourth, leapfrogging Northallerton Town and maintaining contact with the top three.
Reid and Douglas were heavily involved in all three of Celtic’s goals
the last meeting
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the match preview form: WWWWW
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
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EST Allotment Celtic came within ten minutes of promotion at the Boldon C.A. Sports Ground - and yet, despite a truly superb victory on South Tyneside, results elsewhere kept Celtic from attaining promotion on the day. Nevertheless, Allotment will head into today’s game knowing that a draw will be enough to secure a top three place. Currently on a seven-game winning streak, few would bet against today’s hosts achieving the necessary
WASHINGTON form: WWWLW
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ISITING Whitley Park today is a team that have experienced a remarkable turnaround in fortunes since the start of the season, potentially laying the groundwork for a serious tilt at promotion next year. Washington looked on course for a low midtable placing at the start of the season, picking up just thirteen points prior to November. However, an early Christmas present in the form of a substantial cash injection has ultimately allowed
result - but Celtic must overcome stern opposition in today’s opposition. A number of players in the squad are carrying knocks, but most are expected to battle through the pain barrier for the final run-in. Full-back Chris Douglas will be in contention for a return in some capacity, as will striker David Dormand, who missed the Roofing victory. Wingers Dean Lee and Tony Lancaster both made appearances from the bench on Saturday, whilst the club, and manager Stephen Hutchinson, the opportunity to bring in a raft of new bodies. As such, the side have become sleeping giants within the division, the league table going some way to concealing their true ability and potential. A number of new recruits are responsible for Washy’s rise from thirdbottom to a respectable tenth position, not least the dangerous Chris Winn and attacking counterpart James Fairley, both of whom look set to hit the twenty goal mark for the club.
West Allotment Celtic v Washington
Paul Chapman, though not in the matchday squad on Saturday, is expected to be available once more for selection. Top scorer Sean Reid should shake off a knock sustained at Roofing in time for today’s game, though goalkeeper Chris Bannon may not be fit in time for the crunch game against his former outfit. One point may be all that Celtic require by 5pm, but the green and whites will be looking to achieve promotion in style with a victory. The Mechanics recovered from an 8-0 drubbing at the hands of North Shields at the turn of the year to put together an impressive sequence of results, losing just two of their last ten games. They have seen off Jarrow Roofing and Chester-le-Street Town two stubborn opponents - in their last three games, forward Mark Davison featuring prominently in both games. There are plenty of goals in this Washy outfit. Celtic’s defence will have to be just as resolute this weekend if they are to seal promotion.
Previously Ten days stricken ago, club midfielder captain Ian Dean DunnLee took made to thehisfield longagainst awaited Esh Winning, returnbecoming from a persistent the first Allotment knee injury inplayer midweek, in over striking five the crossbar years toand reach missing 200 aappearances further gilt-edged for the chance club. The bylong-serving mere inches. midfield Now marshal fully was in recovered fine form last from time theout, injury helping - initially to thwart the sustained attackingatthreat posed Northallerton by the Roofers, lastand will season hope to - ‘Deano’ be just as will add effective extra firepower this to the afternoon. squad.
statattack 54
The attendance at the Nissan Sports Complex
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Points picked up since the turn of the year
previous lg meetings P 4 5 9
23-year-old striker Chris Winn has caused problems for Allotment in the past, bagging a brace for Ryhope C.W. in a 7-1 humbling last season. The deadly finisher returned to the Northern League scene with Washington, and has since hit the target almost once per game for the Mechanics, undoubtedly representing their greatest threat.
W 3 4 7
D 0 1 1
L 1 0 1
F 10 15 25
A 3 6 9
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No. of Celtic clean sheets in the league
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Goals scored by Chris Winn since signing for Washy
the preview
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washington the history
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ASHINGTON began life as a pit team, entering the Gateshead and District League in 1947 under the banner of Washington Mechanics, going on to join the Washington Amateur League for the 1949/50 season. The mid-fifties marked a sea change in the club’s fortunes, as they went on to win three cups and the league title in 1955/56, and would retain the championship, as well as collecting the coveted Durham FA Challenge Cup, one season later. Five league titles followed in the next five years, as Washington asserted themselves as one of the top sides in local amateur competition. Buoyed by their success, the club opted to join the highly prestigious Northern Football Alliance in 1964. Their tenure lasted just the one season, but the club successfully applied to become members of the Wearside League, under the name of Washington Football Club. They finished as runners-up in their first season, but otherwise found the competition to be testing, often finishing comfortably in mid-table as the club moved into the seventies. In order to achieve Wearside League status, the club had moved from its home in Spout Lane, which was really a village green in those days, to Usworth Park, a Colliery Welfare Ground of high standing, and it was there they played all their home fixtures. The highlight was undoubtedly an FA Cup Third Round tie against League opponents Bradford Park Avenue, when nearly 3,000 people crammed the ground to see their team give a battling display, going down 3-1 to the professional outfit. As a result of town planning in 1975,
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West Allotment Celtic v Washington
Washington lost the use of the ground, having to share the Glebe with a number of other teams. The club persisted, and were eventually granted a near century-long lease to the site of the current ground, known as Albany Park. The club continued to develop on and off the pitch, a large part of which was the development of a clubhouse, before the South Tyneside outfit decided to apply to become members of the Northern League. The side held their own in the presitigous league’s second tier, though a fire that ripped through the clubhouse in 1991 forced the club to temporarily groundshare with Ryhope C.A. With the side slipping towards the bottom end of the division, Washington sought support in the area, and found it in local company Ikeda Hoover. The union coincided with an upsurge in results, with some of Ikeda’s employees becoming vital first team members of the squad. Two seasons after agreeing the partnership, the renamed Washington Ikeda Hoover were promoted to Division One, holding their own in their first season. Ikeda withdrew their support soon after, and the club returned to Division Two in 2003/04. The gradual rebuilding process ultimately led to promotion once more, the Mechanics going back up three years later. Their second stint was decidedly shorter, finishing second-bottom this time around. Washington eventually had to leave their Albany Park home in 2010/11, opting to take up residence at the Nissan Sports Complex, previous home to the now-defunct Washington Nissan. After five seasons occupying a safe mid-table spot, Washington once again have the required financial support that they craved, and will be looking to break into the top half this coming season.
Nicknames: Washy, Mechanics Ground: Nissan Sports Complex Chairman: Derek Armstrong
Rivals: South Shields, Jarrow Roofing, Sunderland RCA Largest home crowd 2013/14: 93 v Willington Distance travelled today (approx.): 29 miles
the players
The pen profiles of some of Washy’s key squad members
Neal Atkinson
Aaron Croft
Mark Davison
Alan Oliver
James Cassidy
James Fairley
Formerly of Sunderland RCA and West Auckland, the stopper has prior experience at the top end of Division One. A ‘keeper with real pedigree.
Alan has been a Washington stalwart over many seasons, playing over 160 games for the club - scoring his solitary goal against Willington this season.
Adam McGuinness
Joined the club in September 2013 from Sunderland RCA. Likes to attack and when he is full flow a joy to watch. Strong in the tackle and dangerous down the left flank.
Nathan Johnson
Previously with Ryhope C.W., Nathan is a versatile member of the squad with a keen eye going forward.
Richard Paxton
Another who has turned out for West Auckland and RCA. Strong in the air and on the deck, and can play at the heart of defence or midfield.
A skilful player who reads the game well, providing a great link between the forwards and defence. The 22-year-old is formerly of Chester-le-Street and Jarrow Roofing.
Despite being just 19, promising midfielder James has made over thirty appearances for the club this season. One to watch at the Nissan.
David Southern
A dangerous attacker for Gateshead, Dunston and Blue Star in bygone years, the 31-year-old now operates in a deeper role.
Mark Catcheside
A skilful winger and set piece specialist, who can place Seaham Red Star and Ryhope on his Northern League CV.
Michael Coughlan
Another ex-RCA man, the 29-year-old midfielder works hard for the side in his role as club captain.
A regular on the scene with RCA and Division One behemoths Spennymoor, ‘Sparky’ joined from the latter late in 2013. A clinical finisher and strong in the air.
The 22-year-old attacker came to prominence for Whitley Bay, and joined Washy after a spell at West Auckland. His keen eye for goal has seen him rewarded with 18 league goals.
Paul Kane
A dangerous prospect up front, who has previously scored plenty of goals for Seaham Red Star, South Shields and Horden. Known for his ability to create something out of nothing.
Chris Winn
One of the division’s most coveted forwards, Hartlepool triallist Chris formed a devastating partnership with John Butler at Ryhope last season, notching 39 league goals. The 23-year-old has provided similar returns for the Mechanics since joining. the visitors
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10/04/2014 14:33
April
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on this day... Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history
1975 Thanks to a goal apiece from Storey and Robson, Celtic recorded an Easter victory over HMSO Press at Backworth. The two points kept Allotment in the race for the Northern Amateur League title but they came at a cost. The game resulted in Celtic losing the services of Harry Milburn for the rest of the holiday programme and he was sorely missed when Allotment lost to Tyne Athletic on the Easter Monday. Milburn’s injury arose when a clash with the visiting keeper saw him come off worst with a broken nose and requiring several stitches.
1986 Celtic made a fruitless trip to Cumbria, where goals from Jackson and Buzzeo were not enough to counter three strikes from Carlisle City. Fortunately, it proved to be the final game in a sequence of nine league matches without a win for Allotment. Indeed, Celtic gained revenge just two weeks later when the Sky Blues were beaten by three clear goals at Backworth.
2005 A trip to Evenwood Town proved no hurdle for Allotment, as the side continued its highly impressive surge towards the ANL Second Division title in what was the club’s debut season in the league. Two goals from the irrepressible Michael Chilton and another strike from Dean Douglas were enough to sink the home side. on this day
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THREE MILES WEST BUMPER END OF SEASON ISSUE
• Every game from the 2013/14 season - the goals, the moments, the photographs • Every player’s campaign reviewed • The ‘A’ team’s inaugural season • A look back at the last promotion push
OVER 150 PAGES!
ALL THIS AND MORE!
COMING IN MAY
the letter draw B
U
P
8th April 2014 3 winners of £250 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 £750 jackpot – the jackpot is shared between everyone who has chosen the winning letters. The jackpot must be won every week. To play, simply complete the form below and hand it to a club official. -----------------------------------CUT HERE----CUT HERE----CUT HERE--------------------------------Name:
Contact number:
What 5 letters would you like? Choose each letter only once.
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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
E
VERYTHING becomes close-run at the business end of the seaon - and the matchday programme awards are no exception. We ultimately placed in third with a score of 82 points, just 0.75 behind Division One runners-up Shildon, and 1.75 off eventual winners Jarrow Roofing. It’s rewarding to know that those desperate times hanging around the printer at my place of work on a Friday afternoon, nervously waiting for it to finish blowing up, were worth it in the end. In truth, it would have been entirely worthwhile with or without any form of recognition, as the fans - and most of the players - were always happy with it. There are many other forces at work behind the scenes who may not initially receive their fair share of the praise; Stephen Allott, our steadfast club historian who is always ready to provide superb articles from yesteryear; our recently-christened club photographer Graeme Jackson, whose pictures help to break up my textual dirge; Micky Wilson, who spends most midweeks and Saturday afternoons flogging them on
the gate; and the committee in general, who have been behind the ideas for increasingly taxing improvements from day dot. We’ll try and go two better next year, hopefully transitioning to a glossier production to match that of our rivals. Either way, this is the last programme I’ll have to print at Wade Financial’s offices. Having cost the company four figures over the course of eight months, the relief, I imagine, is mutual. The Roofers may have bested us off the pitch in the last week, but it was a different story out on the playing field, as we put in one of our strongest performances to put our close promotion rivals to the sword. Every performance was superb; the sight of Michael Bell somehow winning header after header against man mountain Dan Kirkup may well be my enduring memory of this season, regardless of whether we go up or not. The passion was clearly burning bright on the day; it may not have been the case, but it certainly seemed like we simply wanted it more. Dunny made every tackle stick. Stoneman rolled back the years in the heart of defence. Penders
had not laid on a single assist from right back in his previous 32 starts, but provided both of our goals from the right flank. And Sean Reid, so destructive in attack throughout the season, put himself on the line to charge down a goalbound Roofing shot. And yet, we’re still not quite there. Surely it’s only a matter of time? Three games left, and tough ones at that. If we’re going to get a positive result, we’ll want to do it at Whitley Park, in front of our own fans, so that the celebrations can begin in earnest on our own turf. We’ve only lost four times in the league this season; avoiding a fifth will ensure a return to the top tier. It’s what the lads have been working towards, and what we’ve all been waiting for. Let’s make it happen. We’ve come on leaps and bounds since going down in 2010, on and off the pitch. Why not get involved? We’re always looking for more volunteers to help with our media commitments, be it writing match reports or maintaining our social media feeds. If you’re an aspiring sports journo or football fanatic, do get in touch. West Allotment is certainly a club on the up - not just in a potentially literal sense.
goal of the week
man of the week
Two close-range headers, but Hudson’s just gets the nod, in no small part down to Pendlebury’s fine delivery into the six yard box.
Saying every player would be a copout, but it is impossible to choose between Pendlebury, Little, Dunn and Bell - to name but a few!
West Allotment Celtic v Washington
the onion bag
21
making a point We’re one stalemate away from the Promised Land - but the race could go down to the wire...
T
HE raw outpouring of emotion at the final whistle on Saturday afternoon was something to savour on South Tyneside. But once the immediate dust had settled on an emphatic 2-0 victory at Jarrow Roofing, all eyes turned to Non League Zone and Twitter feeds, desperately searching for the score at the Birtley Sports Complex. Neither Birtley nor Seaham Red Star updated their accounts during the game itself, leading to a nervy wait inside (and outside) of the dressing room. The initial buzz from a vital win was still in the air, but that sense of anticipation prevailed.We were all put out of our misery - or joy, depending on how you interpret it - not by the internet, but the oldfashioned method. A phonecall
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to the Press Office confirmed that the Star had snatched victory in the final ten minutes. That promotion party would have to wait, put on hold for at least another seven days. As it stands, West Allotment have 87 points with just three games remaining. Seaham Red Star are six points behind, but have another two fixtures to play - literally mustwins for the Durham side. The first, home tie against rock-bottom Ryton may be considered a comfortably winnable game; the second, in the penultimate weekend of the season, less so. A trip to the Nissan Sports Complex awaits on their final day. Peculiar, perhaps, that one club could have such a monumental impact on the fortunes of two competing opponents. Jarrow Roofing currently sit just outside of the
top three - but have two crucial games in hand over the Star. Trips to Thornaby, Whitehaven and Willington are on the cards, as well as a tricky home tie against Heaton Stan. The Roofers can still mathematically leapfrog us into second place, provided they perform better in their final four games than they did when Celtic came to town last weekend. Having the games in hand is barely half of the battle, one which is never played out on paper. Form at this stage is everything. For their part, the Roofers bounced back with a win on Monday eve at home to South Shields, but in truth, our gaze is fixated on Seaham. They have a frustrating penchant for nicking late goals, many of which have proven decisive on the day. David Palmer grabbed a vital point against Darlo RA in the 95th minute; Adam Johnston
West Allotment Celtic v Washington
got the winner against Esh in stoppage time; and Tommy English struck ten mintes from time in their last outing to keep them in the race by the skin of their teeth. The phrase is apt, as it could come down to just that in two weeks’ time. Colly’s men can, at best, reach 87 points - our current tally but they do have significantly superior goal difference. It has the potential to be that close. Just how much will they rue those three deducted points for that erroneous technicality? West Allotment’s fate, however, remains very much in our own hands. We enter the final fray in a rich vein of form, accounting for Whickham, Northallerton and, of course, the Roofers as part of a sevenmatch winning run.The lads were outstanding from one to eleven (or to fourteen, to satisfy the pedants) on Saturday afternoon,
team p gd pts North Shields 39 104 94 West Allotment 39 42 87 Seaham Red Star 40 51 81 Jarrow Roofing 38 52 79 approaching their very best against tough opposition. They will have to do the same in the next three games, starting this afternoon against a free-scoring Washington outfit. Thereafter, it doesn’t come much tougher than a trip down the road to champions-elect North Shields. An 11am kick-off on Good Friday; it could be far greater than that if we secure the necessary result. We finish with another deceptively tricky tie against a resurgent Thornaby, where Jed Livingstone has been banging them in for fun. As far as run-ins go, it’s less from
straightforward. All of the possible permutations could be rendered meaningless within hours of reading this programme. One simple stalemate would do - but then, nothing is ever simple at West Allotment, and I doubt that it will be anything other than an emotional minefield this afternoon! We could even go up regardless of defeat, should Seaham fail to collect maximum points. But we would rather do it our way. When that whistle sounds at Whitley Park, we want to be celebrating, not scrabbling for our mobile phones. making a point
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top scorers
player statistics
the mainstays
Sean Reid - 43 (1) Ian Dunn - 39 (4) Paul Stoneman - 39
gk Liam Hudson - 14 Michael Bell - 9 Marc Dummett - 9
Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson
13 25 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
33 (4) 28 (3) 36 (3) 1 (1) 39 32 15 (1) 8 (9)
1 6 3 1 5 5 0 0
0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
2 9 8 0 3 1 0 1
1 1 3 0 3 6 0 0
midfield
Sean Reid - 32 David Dormand - 16 Michael Bell - 10
apps
Paul Chapman Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc Allen Sean Reid Bernat Roca Bart Oliver-Berga Kallum McGlen David Henderson Tony Lancaster Dean Lee Connor Graham
1 39 (4) 30 (6) 11 (10) 43 (1) 1 (2) 1 (3) 8 (7) 33 (3) 8 (10) 14 (10) 2 (7)
1 7 2 1 6 1 0 0 3 2 1 0
0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 1 9 0 7 0 0 2 8 1 0 2
0 6 10 1 32 0 1 1 1 3 3 0
attack
name
Liam Hudson David Dormand Lawrence McKenna Rob Nolan
34 (4) 31 (8) 8 (11) 6 (3)
4 1 1 0
Tow 00Law146Town169 0 0
2 0
4 5
Beal
Pendlebury
Little
Stoneman
Dunn
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gls
average starting XI
the bad boys
Paul Stoneman - 5 1 Ian Dunn - 7 0 Sean Reid - 6 0
red asts
Hudson
West Allotment Celtic v Washington
Douglas
Henderson Reid
Bell
Dormand
the player statistics
fixtures and results nl div 2 table
1
team North Shields
pl 39
w 29
d 7
l gd pts 3 104 94
2
WAC
39
26
9
4
42
87
3
Seaham
40
26
6
8
51
81
4
Roofing
38
24
7
7
52
79
5
Heaton Stan
38
22
6
10 21
72
6
Nort & Stock
40
18
9
13 14
63
7
Northallerton 39
18
8
13 16
62
8
Whickham
37
17
5
15 18
56
9
Ch-le-Street
38
15 11 12
-3
56
10 Washington
37
17
4
16
-2
55
11 Tow Law
39
15
7
17
5
52
12 Thornaby
40
15
5
20
-1
50
13 Willington
39
14
8
17 -14 50
14 Darlo RA
38
13 10 15
15 Birtley
38
14
7
16 South Shields 35
9
14 12 -21 41
17 Whitehaven
37
11
7
19 -29 40
18 Alnwick
38
10
8
20 -29 38
19 Stokesley
40
8
8
24 -35 32
20 Brandon
37
8
5
24 -37 29
21 Esh Winning
41
8
3
30 -85 27
22 Ryton
37
6
4
27 -60 22
4
49
17 -11 49
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 W 2-1 W 3-2 W 3-1 W 3-1 W 2-1
APRIL Jarrow Roofing 5th 12th Washington th North Shields 18 26th Thornaby
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A A
W 2-0
fixtures, results, table
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ee itt m m ing Co eet m pm 8
27th Mar
28th Mar
29th Mar
30th Mar
31st Mar
rottweiler’s notes
Rin g Bloo the dho un
d!
The secret shopper has annoyed me today with his/her comments about players language. Even Esh Winning’s secretary is shocked to hear about secret shopper’s comments. After a couple more phone calls, the secret shopper has got this wrong again. Seems to me time to challenge secret shoppers at FA. Last week’s secret shopper didn’t know the difference between our technical area and South Shields’ technical area. Feeling much better today and my trade union side emerges when I learn of Manchester United fans planning to hire a plane to fly over Old Trafford with a banner saying Moyes should be sacked. Who do these people think they are? The person organising this has requested the press don’t name him; what a hero, I would be quite happy to go and stand with a banner outside this person’s place of work demanding he be sacked. Somehow I don’t think he would be very happy. Shall we have a campaign to find out who he is and where he works? Six wins on the trot. A big thank you to everyone, as those who read Non League Zone will know West Allotment had been written off for promotion. Another Northern League mess when three Assistant Referees arrive for today’s game. Text arrives at 09.07 from the bloodhound saying, ‘Don’t forget to put your clocks forward’; just 12 hours too late, which didn’t matter as, like Alex, I had not forgotten. Attend one of NESFL Finals and very impressed by a big powerful player. My enquiries reveal he used to play for Tooting & Mitcham United in the Ryman League. Watch Liverpool once again destroy Spurs. Surely Tim Sherwood is a dead man walking; a very poor performance from his players. Ground inspection made by Northern League today, and it seems only a couple of improvements to be made, including putting notices on the grass bank areas telling spectators not to stand on the grass. Only a complete fool would attempt to stand on those areas. Still, it is a FA ground grading instruction, not the Northern League being petty - which they have been accused of in the past on more than one occasion.
1st Apr
Go shopping with Barbara, then buy fish and chips from the Fish Quay which weren’t up to their normal standard. By 4pm I have a very upset stomach, then spend most of the evening in the bathroom.
2nd Apr
Attend Referees Sub Committee meeting at NFA, then meeting with RDO. In the evening, keep switching between the two Champions League games.
26
West Allotment Celtic v Washington
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.
WASHY Manager Stephen HUTCHINSON Assistants Garth WILSON Paul WARDLE Physio Gordon WARDLE
CELTIC Manager Paul STONEMAN Assistant Wilf KEILTY Coach Paul HOGG Physio Charlotte FERGUSON
MATCH OFFICIALS Referee D WYLAM Assistants G SCOTT P JOHNSON
West Allotment Celtic Chris BANNON Ryan BEAL Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Marc DUMMETT Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Chris DOUGLAS Roy GORDON Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID Matthew SLATER Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Connor GRAHAM Paul CHAPMAN Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Rob NOLAN
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