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allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

THOMASPOTTER

jackthompson

Celtic’s development side bears first

team fruit

NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER 2013

chester-le-street

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contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

recent meetings

the match preview

the visitors

bearing fruit

the letter draw

the onion bag

on this day

the player statistics

fixtures, results, table

rottweiler’s notes

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welcome12

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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 Chester-le-Street Town4

...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


the squad

CB Simon WilthewCB Glenn FordCB Stephen LittleCB Paul StonemanRB John Pendlebury

GK Chris BannonGK Ryan BealGK Bob RodgersonGK Jack Thompson

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 Alex NisbetCM Michael LatimerCM Roy Gordon

CM Ian DunnCM Marc AllenCM David HendersonCM Michael BellCM Sean Reid

CM Bernat RocaRM Kallum McGlenRM Tony LancasterRM Bart Oliver-BergaLM Connor Graham

LM Dean LeeST David DormandST Lawrence McKennaST Liam HudsonST Jed Findlay

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: 31

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 Chester-le-Street Town 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.


16TH NOVEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO NISSAN SPORTS COMPLEX

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

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.

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 last match

test, had James Fairley’s dangerous cross not been cleared from danger by the faultless Little.

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.

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

Washington 2 West Allotment Celtic 3

the last match 11

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 well-struck 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 half-volley 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 free-kick 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

West Allotment Celtic v Chester-le-Street Town 12

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

9TH FEBRUARY 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

W EST Allotment Celtic brushed

aside fellow mid-table side Chester-le-Street Town on Saturday afternoon, courtesy of a David Dormand double and a second-half strike from Tony Lancaster.

The Whitley Park hosts looked eager to build on their encouraging 3 - 0 victory away at Esh Winning in midweek, and started the game in positive fashion, Sean Reid seeing a goalbound header parried at point-blank range by Cestrians ‘keeper Matthew Crook.

Another parry from the young shot stopper gifted Allotment the opening goal of the game. Crook failed to hold onto a low David Henderson

strike, and instinctive poacher Dormand was there to tuck away the rebound.

The away side redoubled their efforts, and had two chances in quick succession to level the score, Craig Mickle blazing over from a good position, and Adam Smith forcing a superb save from Aiden Ames in the Celtic goal.

With half-time looming, Celtic delivered a morale-crushing blow to their County Durham opponents. A lofted Chris Douglas free-kick was nodded home by Dormand at the back post, doubling Allotment’s advantage just short of the referee’s whistle.

On returning for the second half, Allotment continued in

recent meetings

the same ilk, and did not have to wait long for a third goal. Reid’s flick-on found Dormand, who, despite a hat-trick being a distinct possibility, instead laid the ball into the path of Lancaster, who duly gave the hosts an unassailable lead with his neat finish.

Chester-le-Street grabbed a consolation through Michael Pattison, and would have clawed their way back into the tie were it not for two incredibly brave saves from Ames at close quarters. At the other end, Dean Lee and David Dormand both spurned chances to extend Allotment’s advantage. Tricky winger Lee saw a stonewall penalty appeal turned down at the death, but it mattered little, as Celtic comfortably saw out the game.

West Allotment Celtic 3 Chester-le-Street 1

recent meetings 13

12TH NOVEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO MOOR PARK

D ESPITE dominating proceedings over

the course of ninety minutes, West Allotment Celtic failed to break the deadlock at Moor Park, playing out a goalless draw at Chester-le-Street Town on Tuesday night.

Sean Reid almost broke the deadlock for Celtic with barely one minute on the clock, only to see his looping header over Chris Rookes get steered off the line by Michael Hepplewhite.

The Cestrians responded largely through set-pieces, twice going close from corners, before veteran Craig Marron came closest for the hosts, collecting a neat pull-back towards the edge of the area

and firing just beyond the top corner.

However, Allotment should have taken a slender lead into the break, but David Dormand skewed wide after dancing his way into the box, before Liam Hudson made similar inroads, only to stumble in front of the onrushing Rookes.

After the restart, it was one-way traffic, but try as they might, Celtic could not find a way through. Reid was inches away from connecting with a dangerous square ball, and Dormand once again charged into a one-on-one situation with Rookes, only to knock the ball too close to the ‘keeper.At the other end, 17-year-old debutant Jack Thompson had little to do, a fine parry from a

dangerous inswinging corner his only action of the evening.

Allotment threw everything at Colin Wake’s men in the final ten minutes, desperately seeking what would have been a deserved winner. Dormand flicked a header wide of goal, whilst Reid and Hudson both fired respective efforts clear of the bar. The latter was denied a certain goal by a superb defensive recovery from Joe Hamblin, the full-back sliding in to prevent his counterpart from pulling the trigger.

One final chance, a Michael Bell volley from a corner, was unintentionally deflected wide by Dormand - typical of Celtic’s unfortunate evening in general - as the Cestrian defence held firm for a precious point.

Chester-le-Street 0 West Allotment Celtic 0

how West Allotment Celtic have fared in recent months against today’s County Durham-based opponents


the match preview

ALLOTMENT put their three game

winless streak behind them with a 3-2 win last weekend at Washington - and are angling for all three points against a side that frustrated them not two weeks ago.

Today’s teams met at Moor Park two Tuesdays ago, where the Cestrians successfully held Allotment to a goalless stalemate. Still smarting from those two dropped points, Celtic will look to go one better on their own turf in the reverse fixture.Whilst today’s hosts were

CHESTER-LE-STREET Town have

a burgeoning reputation as Division Two ‘giant-killers’, and would do that status no harm with a victory at Whitley Park this afternoon.

A 6-1 thrashing at the hands of Seaham Red Star aside, the Cestrians have swept aside no fewer than three serious promotion contenders. They became one of just four teams to defeat Heaton Stannington in the league, with an own goal from the Stan’s Richie Hoggins and a strike from forward Michael Hepplewhite securing a

made to rue their wasteful finishing in Durham, they did keep a clean sheet - but their chances of repeating the feat may be diminished by the absence of Stephen Little. The centre-half serves the first of a three-game suspension following his late dismissal against Jarrow Roofing, with either John Pendlebury or Sean Reid in the frame to deputise alongside player-manager Paul Stoneman.

More positive is the progress made by Ryan Beal, who returned to first team action on Saturday,

2-1 victory over a side that currently sits in second place.

Perhaps even more impressive was their win down in North Yorkshire, putting a strong Northallerton Town side to the sword, with Adam Smith’s decisive fourth the pick of the goals in a 4-2 triumph.

The performance that really raised some eyebrows came three weeks ago, when Town welcomed hot favourites North Shields to Moor Park. The Robins had lost just once up to that point, a 1-0 defeat to Seaham Red Star,

but would go down to Colin Wake’s hard-working side, as Steven Telford’s late strike earned the Cestrians all three points.

That said, Chester-le-Street have not fared as consistently well when facing less reputable opposition, losing six games in total to largely mid-table teams, but got back on track with a good, if narrow, victory over Whickham in midweek.

They may not have beaten Celtic in the league before, but as their season thus far proves, anything can happen in ninety minutes.

but fellow ‘keeper Chris Bannon remains out, and is joined by Dean Lee, Marc Dummett, Marc Allen, Kallum McGlen and Lawrence McKenna. Long-term absentee Tony Lancaster is set to return, but will do so for the ‘A’ team this afternoon in a bid to regain match fitness.

With their promotion rivals grinding out narrow victories in the past week, Celtic will look to keep the pressure on, and will hope that Liam Hudson and David Dormand rediscover their scoring form this afternoon.

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the preview 15

statattack

0

65The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park

No. of games the Cestrians have won against Allotment

No. of points separating the two teams last season

28

0Chester-le-Street’s goal difference after 19 games

He scored the decisive thirdagainst Washington at theweekend, but defender Stephen Little will not make animpact at either end thisafternoon, serving thefirst game of a threematch ban followinghis late dismissal againstJarrow Roofing.

league meetings

P W D L F A 7 7 0 0 23 6 8 6 2 0 21 7 15 13 2 0 44 13

Formerly of Jarrow Roofing, Michael Hepplewhite has, much like his younger brother Danny, impressed for the Cestrians in the early stages of the campaign, scoring five goals from a wide position, and laying on many others. The 23-year-old could cause problems on the wing this afternoon.

chester-le-street town


THE club was founded in 1972 when a group of enthusiasts got together in

a local public house and formed a football club which was called Chester-le-Street Garden Farm after the pub in which the idea germinated.

The club entered the Newcastle City Amateur League that same year and played on a pitch in Low Fell, Gateshead, because no grounds were available in Chester-le-Street. However, after one season they were allotted a pitch at the Riverside, Chester-le-Street which was to be their home until 1977. In 1975 the Cestrians joined the Washington League, winning the Championship, the Durham Minor Cup and the Washington A.M. Cup. By then flourishing, Garden Farm moved to the Sacriston C.W. ground, were admitted to the Wearside League in 1977, and changed their name to Chester-le-Street Town F.C. the following year.

Over the next few years they won the Championship and the Monkwearmouth Cup on two occasions. In 1980 the club moved to its present home at Chester Moor Park. The ground had only dressing rooms

and a perimeter fence. So far over £100,000 has been spent bringing the ground up to the Northern League standards, so that now there is a 200 seater stand, covered terracing for 500, uncovered terrace, hard standing all round and floodlights. There are facilities for spectator refreshments and a clubhouse. New dressing rooms and spectator toilets including disabled were built in the Summer of 2000. The club was admitted into the Northern League in 1983 and won the Championship of the Second Division at the first attempt and gained promotion to the First Division. After some successful seasons, the cestrians were relegated to the Second Division, but soon bounced back and are now going through a period of consolidation.

Chester-le-Street Club is proud to call itself a family club, catering to the needs of the district by providing football for all ages. With this aim in mind the club is currently fielding an Under 18 Junior side. The club is also proud of the fact that every season has seen a steady flow of young stars moving on to professional clubs, whilst others have progressed through the ranks to claim places in the First Team.

the history

the visitors 17

Nickname: The CestriansGround: Moor ParkChairperson: Joe Burlison

Rivals: Washington, Birtley, Durham CityLargest home crowd 2013/14: 102 v Heaton StanDistance travelled today (approx.): 16 miles

Chris RookesGoalkeeper Rookesy is back at the club for a second spell. Top keeper who dominates his area and marshals his back four well.

Joe HamblinPromising full-back Joe is still a junior, but has forced his way into the senior squad with some good performances.

Kevin DixonAnother returning to the club, Dicka has most recently been at Birtley Town, and is renowned as a very solid defender.

Andrew Grant-Soulsby“Kegs”, previously at Birtley Town and Jarrow Roofing, is a top defender who chips in with vital goals.

Danny HepplewhiteDanny is a solid, no-nonsense centre-half. Signed from Birtley Town, and is the brother of centre-forward Michael.

Adam SmithA young left-sided defender, Adam is happy going forward as well and has a great left foot.

Michael GraverClub captain Michael joined the club last season from Esh Winning, as has proven to be a combative central midfielder.

James Allsopp“Chinny” signed at the start of this season, having previously been at Birtley Town. A dangerous attacking midfielder.

Craig MarronA former Ryhope C.W. man, “Maz” is back at CLS for a third or possibly fourth spell. The 32-year-old is a steady influence in midfield.

David SurreyDavid is a top midfield player who looks equally at home at right back. The tireless 22-year-old never stops running.

Jake StaffordA young midfielder signed from Prudhoe, Jack impressed in pre-season and has made a midfield place his own.

Jack HonourJack is a hard-working midfielder in his second spell at the club.

Michael RobertsSigned from Consett recently, midfielder Michael has impressed the fans with his performances to date.

Kevin DugganKev operates mainly on the left hand side of midfield, and has turned out for the likes of West Auckland, Darlington R.A. and Horden C.W.

Michael HepplewhiteAlways a threat, “Hepps” signed a couple of seasons ago and has been a top performer thus far this season. He is the older brother of centre-half Danny.

Tony HealerTony returned to the club this season to help us out and has made an excellent impression with wholehearted performances. Still has a good eye for goal.

Steven TelfordA very recent signing, Steven was one of Birtley’s promising players, and is always one to work hard for his team up front.

the players


A large part of West Allotment Celtic’s remit is, and always has been, continued and sustainable growth. To that end, it made perfect sense to plant some seeds for the future, in the lower steps of the North East’s league system.

We are far from the first club to do so. The likes of Newcastle Benfield, Billingham Synthonia, Northallerton Town, Alnwick Town and Bedlington Terriers already have established reserve outfits. Their purpose is arguably reflected in their respective names: that of the parent club, followed by the rather uninspiring title of ‘Reserves’. It hardly engenders a sense

of confidence, and, more importantly, belonging.

Much like Whitley Bay before them, Allotment prefer to think of their second string as a development side, a place where the new crop can sharpen their skills in preparation for a potential career in semi-professional football. Players come to learn, not just to play.

Few have learned quite as much in the past year as Jack Thompson. This time last year, the 19-year-old was only just strapping on the goalkeeper gloves for the very first time in a full-sized arena for Allotment ‘A’ partners Whitley Bay Boys Club. “I’d only played since about this time last year. So

I’ve only been playing about a year of eleven-a-side football in nets, so coming from there to here, just in the reserve team, has been a massive step up,” explained Jack. “Just me having to improve my game more than anything, especially competing with the other ‘keepers that we had in the reserve team.”

The young stopper has been one of the bright lights in an otherwise indifferent start to Allotment ‘A’’s inaugural season - and his performances ultimately earned him a starting berth against today’s opponents a fortnight ago. With Ryan Beal and Chris Bannon injured, and Bob Rodgerson on work duty, Paul Stoneman showed faith in both the player and the development side, making an

BEARINGFRUIT

19-year-old Jack Thompson became the first player from the development side to turn out competitively for the first team...

bearing fruit 19

in-house selection in favour of a temporary stopgap. Standing between the sticks at Moor Park, Thompson became the first ‘A’ player to start a competitive match for the first team. Protected by a strong and assured back four, Jack had little to do in a largely frustrating 0-0 draw, a fine parry from an inswinging corner his only save of note. Nevertheless, he did all that was asked of him within his area, his distribution steadily improving as the game wore on.

By the end of the ninety minutes, the boy who had barely played a game in goal not twelve months ago had become a man, with a Northern League clean sheet to his name. A remarkable period of growth by any standard.

The hot prospect enjoyed his first ever Northern League outing - even if he would have liked to have been more involved. “It was good. Glad I kept a clean sheet! I was hoping that they’d have a couple of shots so that I could show off my skills, but I didn’t get a chance to.”

With regular ‘keeper Beal fit once more, Thompson has returned to ‘A’ team duties, and he believes that his regular teammates are finally heading in the right direction. “We’re getting better. We had a bit of a shaky start, but we’re improving,” he insists.

Five months on, the development side is still in its infancy, its players young and naive. And yet, as we enter the harsh winter months, some promising shoots are already beginning to emerge. They may not ripen for some time, but, as Jack’s rapid ascension demonstrates, they will be picked if they are ready. With the right encouragement and attitude, more will blossom in the seasons to come.

West Allotment Celtic ‘A’ manager Henry Brandon has stepped down from his role at the development side, following feedback from his players and fellow coaches.

He had guided Allotment ‘A’ to four wins in fourteen league games, and departs with the club currently occupying thirteenth position in Division Two of the Northern Alliance.

His assistant, Reece Chapman (pictured), took charge ahead of today’s match at High Howdon Social Club, and has the full backing of the players and committee.

The club would like to thank Henry for all his efforts in the side’s vital formative months, and hope that he may have a role to play at the club in the future.

BEARINGFRUIT

a teamupdate

West Allotment Celtic v North Shields20 Northern League Division Two 29th March 2013 20

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• Paul Stoneman discusses his professional career - and the moment he almost left Allotment

• Sean Reid on his future in the game

• Celtic’s mouthwatering tie against Newcastle United Reserves

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21 West Allotment Celtic v Chester-le-Street Town the onion bag

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

IN football, an awful lot can change in a matter

of weeks. Since the last programme column was hurriedly drafted up at work, there’s been an eight goal thriller, a mass brawl after the final whistle, a slightly less frenetic goalless draw, a partial return to form and the tendering of a resignation; all in that order, but not necessarily linked. It’s certainly been an interesting fortnight. Plenty hasn’t been said about the blood and thunder of the Jarrow Roofing encounter. Confusion and aggression reigned on a dark day for both clubs, overshadowing what had been a thrilling game of football at Whitley Park - certainly one for the neutrals, perhaps less so for the suffering supporters, particularly those on the losing side after ninety minutes. Celtic’s fortunes didn’t improve four days later. Twelve attempts on goal yielded no score, as Allotment knocked on Chester-le-Street’s door, but couldn’t find a way through. Had it been a barn door, it wouldn’t have made much difference, such was Allotment’s luck in the eighteen yard box. Having missed a couple of chances

himself, David Dormand went one better in the dying minutes, inadvertently getting in the way of Michael Bell’s potential winner. It was just one of those nights. Fortune occasionally favoured the hosts, who, to their credit, showed unerring resolve to take a point from the game - and two points away from Allotment. The result left Celtic in an unprecedented predicament, having gone without a win for three games for the first time this season; a less than desirable record. Sean Reid and Chris Douglas went about setting things right the following Saturday, combining for the first goal at Washington. Reid was soon at the double, tucking away a cross from Michael Bell - not Douglas, as was erroneously reported by some novice hack on the touchline (ahem). However, both were definitely involved in the third, smashed home by a very excited Stephen Little. The centre-half showed Dormand how it’s done with both the close-range finish and the delightfully exuberant celebration. Three goals to the good, Allotment eased up a little, allowing the Wash to close the gap, scoring the second of

two goals with the last kick of the game; a close scoreline, but in no way a close encounter. And so to the resignation that you’ve all been waiting with baited breath to hear about (unless you read the programme in traditional, chronological order). Fear not, Ted hasn’t stepped down as Chief Guard Dog, nor has Hoggy resolved to take his beloved cones elsewhere. It is further down the pyramid, in the depths of the Alliance, where Allotment have lost a member of the backroom staff. Henry has resigned as the ‘A’ team manager, five months into his tenure. From the outside looking in, it comes as a surprise, with his side’s results and performances steadily improving. Despite the slight upturn in fortunes, it seems that all was not well within the camp, and his assistant Reece Chapman will be charged with steering West Allotment’s young hopefuls towards mid-table. That’s your latest drama digest. Check back on Wednesday night, 7.30pm for another episode of the Northern League’s very own soap opera. We’re on right after Emmerdale.

goal of the weekReid’s second was the pick of this week’s strikes, as much for the build-up play and Bell’s delivery as the midfielder’s close-range finish.

man of the weekSean Reid bagged another two goals, capping another impressive performance from the attacking midfield role.

on this day...

Celtic recorded a useful 3-0 victory away to Whitley Bay YMCA in the Tynemouth & District League. Crichton (2) and Peacock were the scorers in win which kept Allotment just three points behind league leaders Cullercoats.

1935

1957Allotment and Wallsend Rising Sun played out a thrilling N.F.A Amateur Cup tie at the Farm Ground. The Sun were top of the Northern Amateur League at this point, though Celtic were to depose them by the end of the season. Dixon opened the scoring very early in the match to give Celtic the lead. The one goal advantage was retained at the interval, albeit with a 2-1 scoreline; Miller grabbing Celtic’s second goal. A header from Jimmy MacDonald extended Allotment’s lead after the break. The Sun refused to surrender, piled on the pressure and it was only excellent goalkeeping from Tucker that frustrated the Wallsend side. Nevertheless, they did pull a goal back before a break from Allotment saw Miller notch his second and Celtic’s fourth goal. The Sun still managed to make the scoreline 4-3 before they finally ran out of time in their search for an equaliser.

Celtic suffered one of their three beatings by Corbridge Rangers during the 1968/69

season. On this particular day they were hammered 2-6 at Backworth, Ray Taylor

grabbing the consolation goals. This defeat was in the Northern Amateur League Subsidiary

competition. In the normal league fixtures, Corbridge racked up 5-2 and 7-2 victories over

a struggling Allotment team.

1968


Progress was made in the League Cup at the expense of Hebburn

Town. A brace of goals from Andrew Purvis was topped up by

David Potts and Phil Coates as Allotment coasted to a 4-0 win at

Whitley Park.

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

John Kiddie was the hero of the day as his last minute goal earned Celtic a place in the third round of the F.A. Vase. Yorkshire Amateurs were the visitors to Backworth and they faced a confident Celtic team. Allotment took the lead in the 31st minute when Les Yeomans stole the ball from a dithering defender and his pass found Paul Lemon who made no mistake from inside the six yard box. Celtic lost some momentum after the interval and it was no real surprise when Thurlman equalised for the Yorkshiremen in the 62nd minute. The Amateurs then launched a series of attacks on the Celtic goal but the Allotment rearguard, led by Mick Richardson, was outstanding. In the final moments of the game, John Kiddie received a ball from Ian Curle, broke down the left and passed the ball to Peter Jackson. He screamed for a return pass, got it, and burst into the box where his shot smacked both posts before crossing the line. Kiddie was named man of the match by sponsors Joshua Tetley.

1985

2005

Celtic travelled to play Brinkburn in the League Cup and returned home with a 5-3 victory to celebrate. Mick Chilton scored twice while Ian Chater, Danny Olsen and Michael Storey also got their names on the scoresheet. Unfortunately, Ponteland United ended this particular cup run in the following round.

1991

on this day 23

Tow Law Town

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Chris Bannon Ryan BealBob Rodgerson

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

Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc AllenSean ReidBernat RocaBart Oliver-Berga Kallum McGlenDavid HendersonTony LancasterDean LeeConnor Graham

Liam Hudson David DormandLawrence McKenna

apps

910

5 (2)

18 (2)15 (1)19 (2)1 (1)2115

2 (3)102

6 (6)

23 (1)12 (4)6 (6)21 (1)1 (1)1 (2)8 (7)16 (1)0 (2)12

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16 (3)17 (5)8 (8)

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player statisticstop scorers

the playmakers

the mainstays

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average starting XIBeal

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Dormand

Hudson

Dunn Henderson

Reid

Sean Reid - 16Ian Dunn - 6

David Dormand - 6

Liam Hudson - 9Michael Bell - 5

Chris Douglas - 4

Ian Dunn - 23Sean Reid - 21

Paul Stoneman - 21

Paul Stoneman - 1 1Michael Bell - 0 1Alex Nisbet - 0 1

West Allotment Celtic v Chester-le-Street Town the player statistics24

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fixtures, results, table 25

AUGUST 10th

14th

17th

21st

24th

30th

SEPTEMBER 4th

7th

11th

14th

18th

21st

28th

OCTOBER 5th

9th

12th

16th

19th

26th

30th

NOVEMBER1st

5th

8th

12th

16th

23rd

27th

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 D2

NL D2NFA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2EA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2Lg CupNL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2


NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2


NL D2

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

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

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

W 2-1L 4-1L 5-3D 0-0W 3-2

Alnwick TownHeaton StanningtonBillingham SynthoniaWillingtonStokesley SCWhickham

Seaham Red StarStokesley SCNorton & StocktonEsh WinningRyton & CrawcrookPenrithDarlington RA

WhitehavenAlnwick TownBirtley TownTow Law TownRyton & CrawcrookNorth ShieldsNorthallerton Town

Brandon UnitedWillingtonJarrow RoofingChester-le-StreetWashingtonChester-le-StreetNorthallerton TownThornaby

Heaton StanningtonWillingtonSeaham Red StarNorton & Stockton

Tow Law TownAlnwick TownStokesley SCWhickham

South ShieldsEsh WinningDarlington RA

WhitehavenBirtley TownRyton & CrawcrookNorthallerton TownBrandon United

Jarrow RoofingWashingtonNorth ShieldsThornaby

South Shields

fixtures andresults

North ShieldsHeaton StanSeahamWACNorthallertonNort & StockJarrowDarlo RATow LawWillingtonCh-le-StreetBirtleySouth ShieldsWhickhamStokesleyWhitehavenThornabyAlnwickBrandonWashingtonEsh WinningRyton

12345678910111213141516171819202122

19202019222116212119191818192219201923202120

131313121110111098886766555542

4314573435537342443323

24636427966759

1211111015121515

5017251819122687307-42

-15-18-11-16-24-27-47-32

4342404038373634302929272524222019191818149

team pl w d l gd pts

nl div 2 table

OFFICIAL NORTHERNLEAGUE SPONSORS

rottweiler’s notes

West Allotment Celtic v Chester-le-Street Town rottweiler’s notes26

Complete my reports from Monday night’s game and also send off paperwork for our game at Willington last night. In the evening watch Arsenal beat Bourassa Dortmund which had looked very unlikely after the first hours play. Nice to have a night at home.

Go shopping with Barbara and in the evening chair a disciplinary commission, one case was of a 15 year old boy who had to be stopped attacking a referee by two of his team mates. Will be a while before he plays football again.

I have been involved in various capacities within the Northern League for nearly 40 years now and never witnessed scenes that took place at the end of our game with Jarrow Roofing. Will be making no further comment, just not good for football.

Numerous phone calls this morning including press following last night’s game. In the afternoon match assessor Benfield v Guisborough and had to fend many questions again about incident at end of the game. Mind you, some did say how much they had enjoyed the game. Watch Royal British Legion Festival and it gets better every year, which takes me back to today’s game at Benfield. One minutes silence for Danny Gates and those who lost their lives fighting so we can have the life style that we have today and there is a person (about 30 years old) best described as a piece of s**t and dressed that way sat in a seat with both legs sprawled over another seat while everyone else stood.

Spend the day watching football on TV and who saw those results coming. Don’t even complete my reports from yesterday’s game. Too much wine during the afternoon.

At last reports completed and sent off. Have meeting with RDO & Chief Executive at NFA, a very positive meeting. In the evening Richie McLoughlin phones me and we have a long and frank exchange of views about Friday night’s events. There are events occurring within NFA which I am finding very disturbing. Next board meeting will be very interesting.

Chest is no better so and Doctor tells me not to go out in the cold and gives me tablets to take. Miss tonight’s game and the bloodhound kindly stands in for me. Attend committee meeting which turns in to a nightmare with the letter draw producing 38 winners.

Committee

meeting

8pmRingtheBloodhound!

6th

Nov

7th

Nov

8th

Nov

9th

Nov

10th

Nov

11th

Nov

12th

Nov

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.

Follow us@wacfc

Find us onFacebook

www.westallotmentcelticfc.com

WADE FINANCIAL

Kyle BARLOWChris ROOKESGreg WITHERSPOONDanny HEPPLEWHITEJoe HAMBLINAndrew GRANT-SOULSBYKevin DIXONAdam SMITHCraig MARRONDavid SURREYJake STAFFORDJake ORRELLJack HONOURMichael GRAVERKevin DUGGANJames ALLSOPPTony HEALERMichael HEPPLEWHITECraig MICKLEDamien STEVENSSteven TELFORD

Chris BANNONRyan BEAL

Bob RODGERSONJohn PENDLEBURY

Marc DUMMETTStephen LITTLE

Paul STONEMANGlenn FORD

Simon WILTHEWChris DOUGLASMichael LATIMER

Roy GORDONAlex NISBET

Ian DUNN (c)Marc ALLEN

David HENDERSONMichael BELL

Sean REIDBernat ROCA

Bart OLIVER-BERGAKallum McGLEN

Tony LANCASTERDean LEE

Connor GRAHAMLiam HUDSON

David DORMANDLawrence McKENNA

Jed FNDLAY

WestAllotment

Celtic

Chester-le-StreetTown

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Download - WAC programme - Chester-le-Street Town

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