allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

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the wide man on Celtic’s recent form

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contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the last meeting

the preview

the visitors

the feature

on this day

the fa vase trip

the onion bag

the player statistics

fixtures, results, table

rottweiler’s notes

the squads

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6

9

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12

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18

20

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welcome18

16 14

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Unit 3J, Admiral Business Park, Nelson Way, Cramlington, NE23 1WG

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Club OfficialsPresidentChairmanVice-ChairmanSecretaryTreasurerCommercial

Committee

Press OfficerPhotographer

Backroom StaffManagerAssistant ManagerFirst Team CoachPhysio

Selected Club HonoursNorthern Alliance champions

Northern League D2 championsNFA Amateur Cup winnersNFA Benevolent Bowl winnersCraven Cup winnersErnest Armstrong Mem. Cup winners

Alex SmailesRoland MatherJimmy WilsonTed Ilderton

John AlexanderJonny Thompson

David DoddsPaul MasonAbove, plus

Al Liddle,Michael Wilson, Les Scott,

Kath Orr, Harry Bell, Stephen Allott,

Richie MarksCraig Dobson

Graeme Jackson

Paul StonemanWilf KieltyPaul Hogg

Charlotte Ferguson

1987, 1991,1992, 1998,1999, 2000,2002, 2004

20051957, 1975

199320052013

eighty-five years in the makingStephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations...

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion4

...and the decade of declineThe 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.

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 lastA rejuvenated West Allotment won the NFA Amateur Cup again in 1975, largely thanks to the goalscoring exploits of Benny Williams,

from creation to contendersWest 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.

changing leagues, shedsand timesIn 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.

the history

eighty-five years in the makingwho 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.

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.

the colossus of the allianceIn 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

Stephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations...

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 dayHaving 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 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.

5

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion6

the squad

CB Simon WilthewCB Glenn FordCB Stephen LittleCB Paul StonemanRB John Pendlebury

GK Chris BannonGK Ryan BealGK Bob Rodgerson

Chris BannonGK 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.

Ryan BealGK 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.

Stephen LittleCB Age: 26

The ex-Annfield Plain and Killingworth stopper

shone at the back for Allotment last season, putting in a series of superlative defensive showings, earning the

Player’s Player of the Year Award in the process.

Glenn FordCB 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.

Simon WilthewCB Age: 25

Simon featured 15 times at the back for Allotment

last season. Strong at centre-half and adept at

left-back, the Monkseaton defender will be looking

to build on his impressive debut in the Northern

League.

John PendleburyRB Age: 27

A first-team regular since signing for Allotment from Ryton in 2010,

John’s relentless work ethic and tenacious

tackling bring stability to the back four. The

full-back often serves as captain in the absence of

Ian Dunn.

Chris DouglasRB Age: 29

The ultimate utility player, Chris can be employed anywhere down either

flank to devastating effect. The former North Shields man’s pace and

perception underpins his undoubted ability, be it as a full-back or a wide

midfielder.

Bob RodgersonGK Age: 31

A Percy Main Amateurs regular, Bob performed admirably when filling in during a goalkeeping crisis towards the back end of last season, and

has registered once again to be our third choice

‘keeper.

the squad 7

RB Chris DouglasLB Marc DummettCM Michael LatimerCM Roy GordonCM Ian Dunn

CM Marc AllenCM David HendersonCM Michael BellCM Sean ReidRM Kallum McGlen

RM Tony LancasterLM Dean LeeST David DormandST Lawrence McKennaST Liam Hudson

ST Jed FindlayST Ryan Anderson

Marc DummettLB Age: 26

The former Ponteland United and Dunston full-back 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 GordonCM 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.

David HendersonCM Age: 28

David Henderson rejoined the club last

season, and the former North Shields schemer provides another option going forward through the middle. Henders is arguably one of the

most skilful players in the squad.

Sean ReidCM Age: 21Rangy, pacy and

technically gifted, Sean can play as a roaming central midfielder, a dangerous centre-

forward, or even an adept centre-back. The former Ryton forward is one of Celtic’s most promising

attacking outlets.

Michael BellCM 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.

Ian DunnCM Age: 31

Long-serving, tough tackling midfielder Dunn

has grafted tirelessly for three years at West Allotment, earning the

captain’s armband in the process. “Dunny” remains one of Celtic’s key men

deep in the heart of midfield.

Marc AllenCM Age: 26

Marc previously turned out for Whitley Bay Reserves, but has

become a mainstay in the Celtic squad. His astute passing, ball retention

skills and battling tenacity are evident whenever he is called upon in central

midfield.

Michael LatimerCM Age: 26

Seasoned midfielder Michael returns to

Allotment, having spent time at Bedlington Terriers, Newcastle

Benfield and Washington. A tough tackler and a

highly versatile member of the squad, capable of playing at centre-half.

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion the squad8

the squad

Tony LancasterRM Age: 28

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.

Dean LeeLM Age: 30

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 DormandST Age: 25David’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.

Liam HudsonST Age: 25

Another former Ryton forward, army soldier

Liam is capable of pressuring his opposite

numbers into submission with his strength and high

work rate. “Hud” can also be deployed on the

right wing.

Jed FindlayST Age: 24

Signed from Cramlington Town last February, Jed is a promising forward with plenty of attacking potential. Having made a handful of appearances last season, the striker will be hoping to get more game time this

campaign.

Lawrence McKennaST Age: 25

Lawrence is well-travelled, having topped the scoring charts for

Whickham, before going on to play for Bedlington Terriers and Newcastle Benfield. Is known to be a deadly finisher in the

division.

Ryan AndersonST Age: 18

A promising young striker, Ryan was

snapped up in trials for Allotment’s ‘A’ team, and has already impressed for

both the development side and the first team’s respective pre-seasons.

Kallum McGlenRM 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.

the backroom staff 9

the backroom staff

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Paul Stoneman

Paul StonemanPlayer/Manager

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.

Wilf KieltyAssistant ManagerRight-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.

Paul HoggFirst Team CoachThe 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 FergusonPhysiotherapist

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.

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion10

14TH SEPTEMBER 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

A HOST of chances spurned in the first

half, and an own goal late in the second, consigned West Allotment Celtic to their second draw in four days, as Esh Winning snatched a 1-1 draw at Whitley Park.

The Stags’ Lewis Herron blazed an early effort over, before Lee Guthrie’s chipped shot sailed just wide of the far post.

As they so often do, Allotment started even brighter than their opponents, playing slick ten yard passes and moving the ball around comfortably in the final third. Michael Bell sliced their first chance wide, failing to connect with Dormand’s unintentional knockdown, before Esh’s Guthrie was denied a shot at goal only by

the sliding Simon Wilthew.

Esh looked suspect at the back, and were soon the orchestrators of their own downfall. A woefully short backpass to Ryan Graham was collected by Dormand, who could not cleanly round the ‘keeper on his first attempt, but fired into the back of the net the second time around. The forward was less fortunate moments later, getting by Graham in similar circumstances but firing a narrow effort into the side netting.

Pendlebury and Henderson both saw shots blocked, and a wild Sean Reid strike flew harmlessly wide, as Allotment played some of their most positive football.

the last match

Esh’s only chance to level was a controversial one that went against the unwritten rules of fair play, as Guthrie ignored calls to put the ball out for an injury, but was forced wide by Beal and stopped on the line by Ford.

Thereafter, West Allotment should have been at least two clear at the interval, but their goalscorer’s profligacy proved costly. The unmarked Dormand lashed a pre-emptive half-volley over when he had time to control it, before failing to beat Graham in another one-on-one scenario.

Somewhat predictably, Celtic failed to craft the same number of goalscoring opportunities when they returned for the

West Allotment Celtic 1 Esh Winning 1

the last match 11

...in picturessecond half. Beal kept out a shot from substitute Anth Rodgerson with a fine low stop to his right, but Allotment remained comfortable leaders.

The ante was upped by the Stags’ reaction to what they erroneously believed to be a stamp from the captain, resulting in a full-scale shoving match between the majority of the outfield players. The perceived injustice fired up Esh, who went close through Herron’s vicious strike. The Allotment ‘keeper was called into action again soon after, getting a hand to Wilthew’s wayward header, before Ford once again cleared off the line.

Beal looked to have finally been beaten with less than ten minutes remaining, as Stephenson’s neat touch rounded the ‘keeper - but Wilthew courageously blocked the goalbound strike. The same player should have levelled moments later after another Rodgerson effort was parried into his path, but he blazed over with the goal at his mercy.

Esh Winning continued to press, peppering the goal with cross after cross - and finally got their reward, albeit with their least dangerous ball into the area. A deep delivery looked to be floating towards Beal, but the unchallenged Wilthew rose to head the ball beyond his stranded ‘keeper, shattering Allotment’s wavering resolve.

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion the last meeting12

2ND FEBRUARY 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO KINGSLEY PARK STADIUM

W EST Allotment Celtic had to settle

for a point at Ryton & Crawcrook Albion, despite dominating proceedings on their opponent’s turf.

A quiet game on a difficult pitch exploded into life after half an hour. Goalkeeper John Mordey kept Sean Reid at bay when the latter was clean through on goal, before the forward had a strike disallowed for offside and another saved by the ‘keeper’s legs.

The best chance was afforded to Dean Lee from twelve yards out, after the winger was hauled down in the area. The winger dusted himself down, but his central penalty effort was too close to Mordey. Despite the miss, Allotment

should still have taken the lead prior to the interval, but Stephen Little’s close-range tap-in was wrongly adjudged as offside, despite David Hills lying prostrate on the line.

Mordey was once again the hero for Albion in the second half, as he twice denied former Albion forward Reid with two fine saves, before parrying away Lee’s latest effort. When the ‘keeper was beaten by a Little header, a covering defender was there to hack it off the line, whilst Dormand and Reid spurned further chances to put the dominant visitors ahead.

As the clock ran down and Allotment spurned chance after chance, Ryton & Crawcrook sensed their chance to seize an unlikely and somewhat

the last meeting

undeserving winner. Lawrence McKenna drove a speculative effort straight into the arms of Aiden Ames, and a valiant last-ditch tackle from the impenetrable Little prevented the forward from tucking home a close-range effort.

In the final moments, Ryton should have snatched the win from under Allotment’s noses, but, much like their fellow Tynesiders, they were guilty of serious profligacy. Centre-half Hills headed wide from a corner, before Liam McNamara broke clear of the back four - only to snatch at his shot, blazing well over the crossbar.

Somehow, the game remained goalless, with Celtic more disappointed with the stalemate than their hosts.

Ryton & Crawcrook Albion 0 West Allotment Celtic 0

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West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion14

the pre-match preview

ANOTHER game, another draw - but

West Allotment Celtic can put their recent league disappointment behind them, and turn their attention towards the Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup.

Following on from the frustrating 3-3 draw at Norton & Stockton, it was much the same story on Saturday, as another strong (if profligate) showing in the first half did not carry over into the second, and Esh Winning grabbed a point at the death.

LAST Saturday, Esh Winning ended a

seven-match losing streak at Whitley Park - and Ryton will hope to emulate that feat this evening, albeit with a win rather than a draw.

In doing so, the Albion could ensure progression to the Second Round of the League Cup - although extra time and the dreaded penalty shootout are distinct possibilities, if Allotment’s recent form is anything to go by.

The Tyneside outfit have endured a very difficult start

If tonight’s visitors Ryton & Crawcrook Albion wish to make tracks in the League Cup, they will have to beat the partnership of Paul Stoneman and Stephen Little at the back, as the latter returns to fitness following double hernia surgery. However, Glenn Ford will miss out, undergoing an operation on a hernia of his own.

Striker Lawrence McKenna is expected to deputise in David Dormand’s absence, whilst the midfield trio could also be freshened up, with

to the season, taking just one point from their opening ten games - a 2-2 draw on the road against Stokesley Sports Club. Striker Lee Peacock grabbed a brace that day, but the goals - and the points - have since dried up across the water.

Three weeks on, and John Wilson’s new-look side have lost their last seven games. In some matches, against Darlington R.A., Whitehaven and South Shields, their opponents emerged victorious by the narrowest of margins. Others, against strong teams such as North Shields, Whickham

and Northallerton, were somewhat more convincing defeats.

The squad has been bolstered in recent days by the arrival of no fewer than four signings from South Shields, with defenders Osiama Tito Davidson and Patrick Jackson, Dutch midfielder Joe Danquah and strong centre-forward Shaun Edwards arriving through the gates at Kingsley Park Stadium. The travelling Albion fans will hope that the quartet of promising signings can propel their side to its first victory of the 2013/14 campaign.

Marc Allen and Michael Latimer both waiting in the wings. Likewise, Chris Douglas may be promoted from the bench, whilst Marc Dummett should return to his customary left-back role after being omitted from the squad at the weekend.

If the side can continue to dominate the opening forty-five minutes, and, more importantly, maintain that level of performance after the interval, West Allotment Celtic should progress to the next round - and put their second half hoodoo firmly behind them.

WES

T A

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TMEN

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form

: WW

WD

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& C

RAW

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ALB

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form

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the preview 15

statattack

28

88The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park

No. of points separating the two teams last season

No. of Celtic attackers that have played for Ryton

4

25 No. of goals conceded by Albion thus far

At 40, “Stona” is almost the same age as the two players alongside him in the image below - but he has played every game for Celtic this season thus far. The experience of a former professional counts for an awful lot in the Northern League - particularly when regular centre-half Glenn Ford is unavailable to play.

previous meetings

P W D L F A 13 11 1 1 39 12 15 8 4 3 26 19 28 19 5 4 65 31

Young defenders Callum Turnbull and David Below are two of the players retained by the Albion for the 2013/14 campaign. 23-year-old centre-half Callum was a first-team regular for Ryton last season, as was full-back and club captain Below, also just 23 years of age. The pairing have more experience than their youthfulness would suggest.

ryton & crawcrook albion

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion16

SHORTLY after the start of the 1970 - 71 football season John Oliver, the

club’s first Secretary, and Les Robson were approached to see if a club could be formed quickly to take over the fixtures of Prudhoe and West Wylam Co-op who had just resigned from the Northern Combination League.

After securing a loan from Ryton Social Club of £12 / 10 shillings John and Les approached local Councillor Leo Murray and obtained permission to play at Stargate.

Ryton played their first Northern Combination League game, a 3-3 draw, against works team Parsons Athletic on Saturday 17th October 1970. The mid 1980’s saw the club transfer to Clara Vale for their home games while raising much needed revenue in the Crawcrook Social Club, the Lambs Arms as well as Ryton Social Club.

During this period, Ryton won the Prudhoe Hospital Cup twice, the Northern Combination League Cup as well as the Durham County Trophy. Following the 1988 amalgamation of the Northern Alliance, the Northern Combination

and the Northern Amateur Leagues into three divisions, Ryton were allocated a position in the First Division of the newly structured Northern Football Alliance League, winning that title in 1997, thus securing promotion to the Premier Division. The club remained there until gaining promotion to the Northern League at the end of the 2004– 05 season. 2005-06 marked their first season in the Northern League, finishing a respectable 11th place in Division Two, followed by a 12th place finish in 2006-07, then a commendable 3rd place in 2007-08. The latter gained Albion promotion to Division One for the 2008-09 season, where they finished a very creditable 10th place.

Unfortunately, that was where the upward progress ended, as the following season Ryton finished 17th. Then came the infamous 2010-11 season which saw the club finish bottom with just 8 points, receiving a whole host of league and cup drubbings on the way, including Shildon beating them 10-0 and 7-0 in the league, and losing 8-0 at home to South Shields in the Vase.

Coupled with the fact that their facilities are based in Crawcrook, and wishing to involve the local community further, the club sought, and was subsequently granted permission by The Durham Football Association, to change our name to Ryton & Crawcrook Albion F.C. at the commencement of the 2011-12 campaign, in which they finished 18th in their first season back in the Second Division. Last season saw a slight improvement in fortunes with a 14th placed finish. Albion’s new-look outfit, under the guidance of manager John Wilson and his team - also relatively new to the club - hope to continue that progression this coming season.

the history

the visitors 17

Nickname: The AlbionGround: Kingsley ParkChairman: Tony Tailford

Rivals: Prudhoe Town, WhickhamLargest home crowd 2013/14: 86 v North ShieldsDistance travelled tonight (approx.): 20 miles

David BelowThe 23-year-old club captain was an almost ever-present last season. David is a local lad who has become a commanding defender and tough tackler.

Leigh ShicklePacy defender Shickle joined the club in pre-season, having previously played for Wideopen & District, and is renowned for his heading ability.

Adam Chrostowski18-year-old Chrostowski was one of the stars of Albion’s under-18 team - and the defensive prospect has made a seamless transition to the senior game.

Callum TurnbullCallum provides a cool head in the heart of defence, and can operate as a target man if required.

Osiama Tito DavidsonThe former South Shields centre-half, 22, chose to sign for Ryton this month over Workington.

Lee McGillSigned from Gateshead Leam Rangers, Lee is capable of doing the donkey work in central midfield.

Paul ClarkeThe enigmatic midfielder occasionally shows flashes of brilliance in the middle of the park, and formerly did so for Birtley Town.

Michael PooleyFormerly of Northern Alliance side Heddon, 25-year-old Pooley has earned his place in the centre of midfield since signing in June.

Joshua HollandLightning quick, 20-year-old Josh causes left-backs no end of problems with his pace and energy.

Reece DarwentRecently signed from Morpeth, the 20-year-old looks a real threat on the flank.

Joe DanquahAnother recent signing from South Shields, Joe brings quality to central midfield.

Lee Peacock27-year-old Peacock has plenty of Northern League experience, having turned out for the likes of Consett and, in the Wearside League, Prudhoe Town. Lee currently tops the club’s scoring charts with three strikes to his name.

Shaun EdwardsYet another Seasider acquisition, the 27-year-old brings bags of experience with him to Kingsley Park. Edwards proves to be a physically strong leader of Ryton’s forward line, and will expect to be amongst the goals this season.

Frazer NairnSigned from Killingworth last season, 22-year-old ‘keeper Nairn made the number one jersey his own throughout the course of the 2012/13 campaign, and continues to improve with every passing game.

the players

Finding the right notes

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion 18

“NOW is the time, let everyone see you never give up - that’s how it should be. Don’t get caught, make your own play. Express yourself, don’t give it away.”

The sage words of new wave legends New Order, from their anthemic football track World in Motion. It’s a song that may not get pre-match airtime in the dressing room, or in Chris Douglas’ busking set - he’s no John Barnes, after all - but the advice certainly

wouldn’t go amiss at West Allotment. “I don’t know what’s wrong with us. Our second half performances have been shocking, haven’t they?” asked wide man Douglas after the 1-1 draw against Esh Winning. “I’ve played against better teams on a Sunday morning, but we seem to have that mentality where we drop to their level a little bit. Most teams in the league work for ninety minutes. We work for forty-five, think the game’s won, then just stop. That’s just not the way it is in

the Northern League.”

The former North Shields winger pointed towards the Seaham game as the less than positive turning point for Allotment’s second-half showings - despite the coaches’ attempts to nip it in the bud with some tough love. “At half-time, we were getting a pat on the back, and from that game onwards, gradually, we’ve been getting worse. But at half-time, we’ve been getting less praise, and today, we didn’t really get much praise. Against Norton when I was in the changing room at half-time we didn’t get much praise, really, just: “Don’t start the half slow. Don’t do it. You need to switch on for the first fifteen, twenty minutes. Don’t concede a goal.” But we did. I don’t know what was said today, but I imagine it was less again. We just need to get rid of that mentality that the game is won, and try and grind out results more.” The late draw had the air of a defeat about it, leaving the benched Douglas feeling “deflated” afterwards. The 29-year-old has started seven of Allotment’s ten games, an occasional loser in the game of musical chairs. The strong

CELTIC NEED TO GET INTO THE GROOVE AND FIND SOME RHYTHM ON THE PITCH, ACCORDING TO RESIDENT MUSICIAN CHRIS DOUGLAS

the feature

Finding the right notes

19

squad has been rotated multiple times in the season’s early stages - and, whilst it has proven to be initially successful, Douglas believes that a settled starting eleven will eradicate those frustrating bum notes that Allotment have been striking.

“It’s worked, it’s been working, but I think there comes a point where you need to start playing your strongest side,” Chris explained. “The aspirations this year are to get promoted, and maybe five or six, seven players have started most games, and the rest have been rotated. There comes a point where you have to start playing eight or nine players constantly, just to get some rhythm going. At the minute, we’re playing good football in patches, and then we just fall to bits. We got overran by a pretty average team today, but if we had a rhythm going, we’d steamroller those teams.”

“Dougs” acknowledged that tonight’s game, and Saturday’s Vase trip to Penrith, could prove beneficial in establishing a hierarchy and getting “a bit of fluency going” - but would rather get straight back to Northern League action. “A

lot of the lads were saying in the changing room that we just want to play league games, because we want to try and get over this blip. I think we need more league games to try and not lose the pace of the league. The more league games, the better.”

The utility man can expect to feature in both league and knockout competitions, with his versatility and ability to adapt offering Allotment a number of options out wide - be it as a dangerous attacker or pacy full-back. “I know I’ve been more on the right this year, but if I play on the wing, I prefer left. I like playing in midfield when I’ve got Reidy or Hendy, or to a lesser extent Marc Allen, because they all like to play five yard or ten

yard balls, which is what I like to do. When I get the ball, I try and play, moreso than just hitting it up the line. But I’m happy to play full-back, because I can still get forward. I’ve never been a defender, but I’ve got pace, which I can use to cover the centre-halves. But I was a winger when we won the league with Consett, scored a few goals there, then I went to uni the year after, and I think I lost my fitness a bit. If I was fully fit, then I think I’d do a job on the wing.”

Wherever he finds himself stationed in the coming weeks, Chris will hope to be playing a somewhat more positive tune - and, with a little practice, the rest of the squad should also find themselves singing from the same sheet.

CELTIC NEED TO GET INTO THE GROOVE AND FIND SOME RHYTHM ON THE PITCH, ACCORDING TO RESIDENT MUSICIAN CHRIS DOUGLAS

Douglas in action in the season opener against Alnwick Town

20

on this day...Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history

Nelson Villa were walloped at the Farm Ground in West Allotment in a hopelessly one-sided NFA Minor Cup encounter. The score was 10-0 to Celtic by half-time but they took mercy after the interval and settled for a 12-0 final scoreline. Herriott claimed five goals, with Wilkinson also grabbing a hat-trick.

1954

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion on this day the fa vase

A four-goal blast from Benny Williams was the stand-out statistic from a 6-1 win over Winthrop United in a NFA Amateur Cup tie played at Backworth Welfare. Chaffey

and Milburn got the other Celtic goals.

1971

1999 It appeared to be a bad day at the seaside for Allotment as they

crashed to a first league defeat of the season, 2-0

away to Newbiggin CW. Sean Parker was red-carded too,

just to add to the misery. What no-one knew at the

time, however, was that the home side had fielded

an ineligible player and, in due course, the match

was voided. Allotment won the later replay and, to

the eternal annoyance of runners-up Shankhouse, went on to win a third

successive Northern Alliance title by, yes, three points!

Allotment lost interest in the FA Vase for another year after going down 3-1 away to Bedlington Terriers. The only notable

moment for Celtic was a tremendous long-range strike from Stephen Buzzeo that found the net - but it was limited

consolation on a disappointing afternoon.

2010

1982

Lobley Hill provided the opposition in Celtic’s sixth league match of the new campaign and the outcome was the same as the previous five games – a win for Allotment.

Goals from Appleyard, Jackson and Richardson were enough to secure a 3-1 win.

21West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion on this day the fa vase

the fa vase

Penrith v West Allotment CelticSecond Round Qualifying

Saturday 21st September

Departure time: 11.30am at West Allotment Social Club£5 per person

This time next week, West Allotment Celtic will travel westwards in their quest for FA Vase glory, venturing into Cumbria to take on Division One’s Penrith A.F.C.. The Blues destroyed Yorkshire Amateurs 7-1 at the World Group Stadium, whilst Celtic overcame Stokesley 4-3 in their own home tie. The Cumbrian outfit are in a rich vein of form at present, unbeaten in their last four games - but Allotment have gone two games better, having won five of their last six matches.

The club will be putting on a coach service* to the prestigious cup tie, affording YOU the chance to support the lads on their travels.

*coach may differ aesthetically to the one displayed

Hosted by Real Radio’s JUSTIN LOCKWOOD

THURSDAY 3RD OCTOBER7.30PM

KINGSTON PARKNEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE

Three course mealAuction and games

£45 per ticket

To book your tickets, contact david@wadefinancial.co.uk

• 171 tries in 247 games for Bath• Member of the England squad between 1981 and 1986• Renowned after dinner speaker

Side-splitting local impressionist and comedian

west allotment celtic present

the onion bag Craig Dobson’s take on the last seven days in the Allotment garden

“N OBODY wants to see the same

scenario repeating itself - or have to hear that same sorry question, stuck on an excruciating loop.” True to my words, I will not bore you (or myself) with 500 more about what transpired on Saturday afternoon. Instead, I’ll be a little more choice in my selection of phrases: dominant opening, narrow lead, profligacy, the interval, complacency, late concession, exasperation, two points dropped. You can fill in the gaps if you’re familiar with the tale - it’s fast becoming a parable. As an alternative, I’ll discuss something a little more positive: injuries. No pre-emptive excuses to be proferred here - Allotment have a strong enough squad to cope with all but the most severe crises - but instead, a look at how our current crop deal with their various afflictions. Glenn Ford is first up. The centre-half admitted to being nowhere near match fit in Allotment’s early games, but battled on regardless. His early fitness, or lack thereof, was not down to lack of effort or dedication; he was carrying a hernia. After the

ninth consecutive game, Fordy begrudgingly ruled himself out of contention for eight to ten weeks. Taking his place will be the returning Stephen Little, who can claim to have gone one better than his defensive partner. He sees Glenn’s one hernia, and raises him another one. What’s more, the 26-year-old played on said hernia(s) for months, leading Allotment to a cup final (and getting himself sent off - but the less said about that the better!) Currently injury-free, Paul Stoneman has already booked his sports hernia in for December, with Simon Wilthew scheduled to pick one up at some point in February. Others have put off their operations for even longer than a few months. Tony Lancaster has had niggling issues with his knee for two years. The winger has finally undergone surgery that he hopes will correct the problem once and for all. As part of a deal struck with his not-so-local hospital, Tony gets a free leg brace and a couple of months’ vacation from physical exercise and driving responsibilities. The Wark man is still a few weeks away, but is finally on the road to recovery, even if he can’t make it down

the A69. There are even some players who are perennially injured. Last year, Liam Hudson reeled off a cringeworthy list of injuries that he had incurred - a pulled quad, sprained ligaments, and, not least, a broken metatarsal - stating after every respective tear and break that he’d “played on that”. It was just a matter of fact to a squaddie that’s spent time in Afghanistan. On the other side of the fence, Chris Douglas seems to pick up a new injury with almost every touch of the ball, worrying the physio and fans alike with his latest niggle - only to return to the squad the very next game! Joking aside, a couple of players remain infirm for the foreseeable future. Jed Findlay, the most unfortunate man at the club, looks set to be out for a year with a catalogue of problems. And it could be months before anybody sees Aiden Ames again, as the ‘keeper’s troublesome knee issues show no sign of abating. For all the variables that may shape Celtic’s season, one thing is certain: new physio Charlotte will have her hands full this season.

goal of the weekBegrudgingly, it’s Dormand’s opening goal - as it was somehow the only one Celtic scored.

man of the weekDavid Henderson posed a constant threat on the move, particularly in the first half, linking up well with Reid in attack.

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion the onion bag 23

Tow Law Town

a

ttack

m

idfie

ld

def

ence

gk

name

Chris Bannon Ryan BealBob Rodgerson

John Pendlebury Marc Dummett Chris DouglasSimon Wilthew Paul StonemanStephen Little Michael LatimerGlenn FordRoy Gordon

Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc AllenSean Reid Kallum McGlenDavid HendersonTony LancasterDean Lee

Liam Hudson David DormandJed FindlayRyan AndersonLawrence McKenna

apps

550

6 (1)9

7 (2)1 (1)100

2 (3)9

0 (4)

9 (1)7 (1)3 (3)

81 (2)3 (1)0 (2)

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player statisticstop scorers

the playmakers

the mainstays

the bad boys

average starting XIBannon

StonemanFordDouglas Dummett

Dormand

Hudson

Dunn Bell

Reid

Sean Reid - 6Ian Dunn - 5

David Dormand - 5

Liam Hudson - 4Michael Bell - 3

Chris Douglas - 2

Paul Stoneman - 10Glenn Ford - 9

Marc Dummett - 9

Dean Lee - 1 0Chris Bannon - 1 0

Marc Dummett - 1 0

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion the player statistics24

Lee

gls

000

111010000

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fixtures, results, table 25

AUGUST 10th

14th

17th

21st

24th

30th

SEPTEMBER 4th

7th

11th

14th

18th

21st

24th

28th

OCTOBER 5th

9th

12th

16th

19th

23rd

26th

30th

NOVEMBER1st

9th

16th

23rd

30th

DECEMBER6th

14th

21st

28th

JANUARY4th

10th

18th

31st

FEBRUARY8th

15th

22nd

MARCH1st

8th

15th

22nd

28th

APRIL5th

12th

18th

26th

TBD

NL D2NL D2FA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2FA VaseNL D2NL D2Lg CupFA VaseNL D2NL D2

NL D2NFA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2EA CupNL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2

AAAAHH

HHAHHAAA

AHHHAAHH

AHAHH

HHAH

AHAA

HAH

HAHAH

AHAA

A

W 4-0L 3-2L 4-0W 2-0W 3-2W 3-1

W 2-1W 4-3D 3-3D 1-1

Alnwick TownHeaton StanningtonBillingham SynthoniaWillingtonStokesley SCWhickham

Seaham Red StarStokesley SCNorton & StocktonEsh WinningRyton & CrawcrookPenrithSouth ShieldsDarlington RA

WhitehavenAlnwick TownBirtley TownTow Law TownRyton & CrawcrookWillingtonNorth ShieldsNorthallerton Town

Brandon UnitedJarrow RoofingWashingtonChester-le-StreetThornaby

Heaton StanningtonWillingtonSeaham Red StarNorton & Stockton

Tow Law TownAlnwick TownStokesley SCWhickham

South ShieldsEsh WinningDarlington RA

WhitehavenBirtley TownRyton & CrawcrookNorthallerton TownBrandon United

Jarrow RoofingWashingtonNorth ShieldsThornaby

Chester-le-Street

fixtures andresults

North ShieldsHeaton StanBirtleySeahamNorthallertonWACDarlo RAWhickhamNort & StockTow LawStokesleyAlnwickjarrowSouth ShieldsBrandonWhitehavenCh-le-StreetEsh WinningThornabyWillingtonRytonWashington

12345678910111213141516171819202122

91198989

10119

10967

1169

109

101010

7766555535444333221100

2120321160220221213311

0312113424432262575699

347

121815986431-35-2-7-8-8

-20-7

-14-17-36

23222018181716161515141412111110876611

team pl w d l gd pts

nl div 2 table

OFFICIAL NORTHERNLEAGUE SPONSORS

rottweiler’s notes

West Allotment Celtic v Ryton & Crawcrook Albion rottweiler’s notes26

Barbara at work all day, so I have all the household chores to do. There always seems more to do when I do them. Complete my reports on yesterday’s game at Whitley Bay.

Newcastle with Barbara, then home in time to collect Morgan from school. What a great tennis match Nadal v Djokovic was in the US Open Final.

Morgan falls out with grandma and tells me she is not coming back on her way to school. She says I will have to go and visit her at her house, but grandma can’t come. Have my first meeting at NFA today for the first time in over a month. In the evening, I’m the match assessor at Whitley Bay v Morpeth.

Very quiet day, and yes, Morgan does arrive for breakfast, and everything is fine. We draw 3 – 3 at Norton, and again we drop two points in a game which we should have won easily. Very frustrating.

Complete paperwork from last night’s game and spend the rest of the day doing nothing except watch TV.

Friday the 13th and Barbara not happy at all about the date - but it doesn’t stop her going off to Newcastle for some retail therapy. In the evening, emails start flying between me and Mike Amos about a Secret Shoppers’ report. My point is that they are not marking clubs consistently.

Match assessor at Benfield v Newton Aycliffe, and we only draw with Esh Winning after missing many chances.

The bloodhound and I decide to watch Cullercoats Formica (Steve Brown’s team) play Billy Mill in the Crichton Cup Semi-Final. Have a chat with Tommy Grounsell (Billy Mill), who is now 80 years old and still running after footballs. A disturbing incident occurs after Tommy goes and collects the ball, one of his own players shouts an obscenity at him. No respect shown at all by this player, who I am happy to describe as a foul-mouthed yob. We are also treated to the Red Arrows flying overhead. Steve, I never realised your contacts went as far as that. Thanks for the show!

Well, after reading Mike Amos’ blog I am virtually speechless to see the Secret Shopper marks awarded to Benfield and Newton Aycliffe. The reason why I am virtually speechless is I was match assessor at this game, and it proves my point that these Secret Shoppers are not marking consistently. Wait until the bugger (Mike) comes to our match on Wednesday night!

Committee

meeting

8pmRingtheBloodhound!

8th

Sept

9th

Sept

10th

Sept

11th

Sept

12th

Sept

13th

Sept

14th

Sept

15th

Sept

16th

Sept

RingtheBloodhound! 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.

Frazer NAIRNConor GILLESPIEDavid BELOW (c)Leigh SHICKLEAdam CHROSTOWSKILiam BARKERChris JUDDCallum TURNBULLStephen CRAMEJoshua HOLLANDLee McGILLMichael POOLEYPaul BASEYPaul CLARKEJorge BOLLADOLee PEACOCKReece DERWENTAndrew PEACOCKMicky WATSONCalum ALEXANDERMatthew WILSONDavid BACKHOUSE

Chris BANNONRyan BEAL

Bob RODGERSONJohn PENDLEBURY

Marc DUMMETTStephen LITTLE

Paul STONEMANGlenn FORD

Chris DOUGLASMichael LATIMER

Roy GORDONIan DUNN (c)

Marc ALLENDavid HENDERSON

Michael BELLSean REID

Kallum McGLENTony LANCASTER

Dean LEELiam HUDSON

David DORMANDLawrence McKENNA

Ryan ANDERSONJed FINDLAY

WestAllotment

Celtic

Ryton &CrawcrookAlbion

Referee: C DEAN Assistants: F MALTON M MALTON

Manager: Paul STONEMAN Manager: John WILSON

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