allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

THOMASPOTTER

marcallen

the centre-mid on his

breakthrough into the first

team

NORTHUMBERLAND FA SENIOR CUP WEDNESDAY 9TH OCTOBER 2013

alnwick town

Club Sponsor

THOMASPOTTER

Stockist and distributor of fastenings, nuts, bolts, screws, flanges, manufacturing hose fittings and special plate flanges.

MAIN SPONSORS OF WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC

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

Tel: 01670 591 100www.thomaspotter.com

contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the last meeting

the preview

the visitors

the feature

on this day

the letter draw

the onion bag

the player statistics

fixtures, results, table

rottweiler’s notes

the squads

4

6

9

10

12

14

16

18

20

22

23

24

25

26

28

welcome18

16 14

12

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

Tel: 01670 591 100www.thomaspotter.com

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 Alnwick 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

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town6

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 Alnwick 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

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRUCTION

SOLUTIONS LIMITEDSpecialists in surface and waste water managementAdvice - Design - Manufacture - Installation - Commission - Service - Repair

Proud sponsors of West Allotment player-manager

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 Alnwick Town10

5TH OCTOBER 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO FOCUS SCAFFOLDING SPORTS COMPLEX

W EST Allotment Celtic returned

from their 220-mile round trip to Whitehaven empty-handed, going down 3-1 to their Cumbrian hosts on Saturday afternoon.

The hosts were the first to fire warning shots across the bow, with Darren Donald being denied only by deputising centre-half Sean Reid, before Matty Tymon forced the first save of the day from Ryan Beal.

Although Allotment looked less than assured in the opening stages, they took the lead after fifteen minutes, via their first notable attack of the afternoon. Stephen Little headed a deep free-kick back across goal towards the waiting Lawrence McKenna, who shrugged off

the attentions of his marker to tuck home from close range.

The striker should have doubled his tally, and with it, Allotment’s advantage, but he headed Chris Douglas’ deep set-piece over the bar with the goal at his mercy.

Celtic would go on to rue their missed opportunity, as Whitehaven came storming back into the game. Full-back Jack Hunter whipped in a dangerous cross from the left, and Tymon stooped between two defenders to guide the ball into the far corner with his head.

The shellshocked visitors should have been behind within minutes, as an unmarked Donald powered over the

the last match

crossbar from just three yards out, but the hosts did not have to wait long for their pressure to pay off. Midfielder Kevin Holliday rounded off a splendid team move with a neat finish, turning the game in ‘Haven’s favour.

A disjoined Allotment were down at the interval by just the one goal, but any hope of a second-half resurgence seemed to be crushed by a third goal shortly after the restart. The hosts broke forward at pace, with the unmarked Tymon looking certain to latch onto a square ball and score again, but Marc Allen did well to get there first - only to see his attempted interception fly into the back of the net.

The own goal prompted

Whitehaven 3 West Allotment Celtic 1

the last match 11

...in picturesa tactical reshuffle, with Dormand joining a three-man attack, and the move belatedly started to pay off. Hudson was denied by Stuart Petitt, before the ‘keeper somehow kept out Dormand’s close-range header. McKenna fired a dangerous Hudson cross just wide of goal, whilst at the other end, Whitehaven almost sealed the win through Donald, who was unfortunate to see his rising strike crash off the underside of the bar. The hosts were fortunate to enter the final period with all eleven men on the pitch, as the previously-booked Tymon’s persistent fouls went unpunished by the officials.

Allotment’s best chance to salvage something from the game came with just ten minutes left on the clock, and came by way of a refereeing decision. Reid, in his customary advanced role, was held back by the centre-half in the box, affording the away side the opportunity to get back into the tie from twelve yards out. Reid’s penalty was well-struck, but Petitt made a superb diving save to his left to deny Celtic any hope of a comeback.

Dormand dragged a shot wide when through one-on-one with Petitt, and McKenna saw a hopeful effort comfortably saved, but the game had already escaped the visitors’ clutches, who ultimately paid the price for a poor first half and a profligate second.

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town 12

10TH AUGUST 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ST JAMES’ PARK

W EST Allotment Celtic enjoyed

the perfect start to their Northern League campaign, comfortably defeating Alnwick Town 4-0 at St. James’ Park.

However, the visitors could have found themselves behind from within seconds of the season’s kick-off. A misjudged header from Glenn Ford gifted James Jackson an early one-on-one opportunity, only for the centre-forward to skew his effort horribly wide.

Eager to make the most of the near miss, Celtic took the initiative, with Sean Reid heading over from a corner and a teasing Dean Lee delivery calling Town ‘keeper Daniel Mullen into action.

Allotment continued to create chances, with Dormand firing a volley just over and Lee testing Mullen once again, and the visitors expectedly broke the deadlock after 25 minutes. Paul Stoneman headed a deep ball from Marc Dummett beyond the Alnwick back four towards the waiting Reid, who steered the ball into the bottom corner.

The hosts struggled to find their feet in the match, and often failed to support the solitary figure of Jackson in attack. At the other end, Celtic were still the livelier side. Reid curled a free-kick wide of the far post, Hudson scooped an effort onto the roof of the net and Bell failed to hit the target, ensuring that the scoreline remained deceptively close going into half-time.

the last meeting

After the interval, it was one-way traffic in the visitors’ favour. Lee was in the thick it again, firing over from the edge of the area following a corner, before being presented with another chance by relentless counterpart Hudson. The latter latched onto a fine ball from Reid, and found Lee arriving at pace at the back post, but the winger could not keep his effort down.

Allotment’s high pressure kept Alnwick on the back foot – and almost yielded a second goal, as some fastidious work from Bell almost granted him a one-on-one opportunity, but his effort, and the follow-up from Dormand, were frantically blocked by the covering defenders.

Alnwick Town 0 West Allotment Celtic 4

the last meeting 13

...in picturesThe stronger side belatedly doubled their lead from a routine set-piece. Chris Douglas’ whipped corner found Stoneman, who did well to turn the ball into the net whilst under pressure from Kevin Elliott.

The player-manager’s goal afforded Celtic enough breathing space to put on a second striker, with McKenna coming on for captain Dunn – and the debutant made the desired impact within minutes of his arrival. A catastrophic mix-up between centre-half and goalkeeper allowed the striker to race onto a loose ball and tap it into the empty net.

Tensions had become frayed at St. James’ Park after a legitimate aerial challenge from Bell bloodied Makin’s nose, whilst Alnwick midfielder Bryan Murray was extremely fortunate to escape so much as a booking after a late studs-up challenge on the impressive Douglas.

The heated atmosphere did not faze Allotment, who saw a fine McKenna strike contentiously ruled out for handball, before another substitute wrapped up the victory. McKenna and Dormand’s attempts to convert McGlen’s square cross were hampered, but the ball broke to Marc Allen, who stroked it home with aplomb – putting Allotment top of the Division Two table in the process.

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town14

the pre-match preview

HAVING suffered another knockback

in the league, West Allotment Celtic will be eager to get back to winning ways, starting with Alnwick Town in the NFA Senior Cup this evening.

Celtic had looked impressive when they travelled down the A1, putting Darlington R.A. to the sword with four unanswered goals, but could not replicate the feat when they took to the A69, and were second-best as Whitehaven secured a 3-1 victory.

AFTER a positive start to the 2013/14

campaign, Alnwick Town will be desperate to arrest their recent downturn in form with a good performance in tonight’s cup tie.

Since their 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Allotment on the opening day, Town kicked on in positive fashion, picking up two hard-fought 2-1 wins on Tyneside, away at Ryton and Washington respectively.

The Northumberland outfit lost just one of their next five days - to current high-flyers Heaton Stannington

Celtic did improve in the latter stages when Sean Reid, deputising at centre-half in place of the suspended Paul Stoneman, was pushed back into midfield as part of a more attacking system. The versatile 21-year-old could once again feature at the back, or John Pendlebury could come inside to partner Stephen Little.

These potential reshuffles may be in jeopardy as a result of Marc Dummett’s recent injury. And, with Glenn Ford expected to be

- with a narrow victory at home to Northallerton and a convincing 4-1 victory at Brandon proving to be the highlights.

After that positive start to September, Town went without a single point or triumph for the rest of the month, being turned over by the likes of Norton & Stockton and Seaham Red Star. The margin of defeat in the following two games were markedly closer - 3-2 against Tow Law and 3-1 at Chester-le-Street respectively - but the latter still went down as Alnwick’s fifth straight defeat in all

league and cup matches.

Town will have to make do without exciting forward Dale Kennedy, who has been ruled out for the season through injury, with new signings Michael Robinson and James Jackson, versatile attacker Kieran Hogg and reserve graduate Jon Colley tasked with filling the void.

Playmaker Tony Brown has already chipped in with goals from midfield this season, and will undoubtedly serve as a key player should he preserve his place in Town’s starting line-up.

sidelined once more, Simon Wilthew has emerged as a potential replacement in both positions. Michael Bell serves the second game of a three-match suspension, meaning that Alex Nisbet and Connor Graham, recent signings from Longbenton, could feature. Both Tony Lancaster and Michael Latimer remain out.

Taking up his place in the dugout, Stoneman could opt to give a number of fringe players a chance to impress, as Allotment seek a much improved performance.

WES

T A

LLO

TMEN

T C

ELTIC

form

: DW

LWL

ALN

WIC

K TO

WN

form

: LLL

LL

the preview 15

statattack

48

126The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park

No. of points separating the two teams last season

No. of games Celtic have played against Alnwick w/out conceding

3

78.5% of Alnwick’s points picked up on the road this season

Reliable left-back Marc Dummettincurred a hamstring injury duringAllotment’s 4-1 defeat at Penrith,but made an appearance from thebench at Whitehaven - lasting just ten minutes before his enforcedwithdrawal. Chris Douglas may take his place once more, butMarc’s likely absence willstretch a back four that isalready missing its stalwartplayer-manager.

recent meetings

P W D L F A 5 3 2 0 14 7 4 3 0 1 9 2 9 6 2 1 23 9

Alnwick Town’s club captain and one of their longest-serving players, Bryan Murray displayed all of the aggression and tenacity that he has come to be known for in the last encounter between the two sides. The 30-year-old midfield battler will no doubt cause a few problems in Allotment’s midfield three this evening with his zealous tackling and never-say-die attitude.

alnwick town

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town16

ALNWICK Town Football Club dates back over 130 years, with its

predecessor, Alnwick United Services, formed in 1879 - at the time, the only association football side between Newcastle and Dunbar. At the turn of the century, Alnwick won the North Northumberland League, and moved to a new stadium, St. James’s Park, prompting a chance of name to Alnwick United Juniors.

Four years later, the club won the North Northumberland Minor Cup as Alnwick St. James. Alnwick continued to ply their trade in North Northumberland for the next twenty years or so, before entering the East Northumberland League in 1923. Another twelve years passed before Alnwick made the decision to head further south, entering the Northern Alliance. It proved to be a wise move, as the club, renamed Alnwick Town, won the league just two years after their debut campaign.

The sixties and early seventies are considered as the club’s heyday, as Alnwick amassed an impressive twenty trophies in twelve years,

including eight further Alliance titles and five League Cups. After winning the Northumberland Amateur Cup in 1972, fans up north had to wait another nine years for their next silverware, as the side brought in the eighties with the Northern Alliance Subsidiary Cup.

Alnwick chose to make the step up once again in 1982, joining the newly-formed Northern League Second Division. Whilst there, Alnwick won the Northumberland Benevolent Bowl, and, in 1987/88, the floodlights at the ground were switched on for the first time. Fittingly, the tenants of the stadium’s namesake made the trip up north, as Newcastle United played a well-received exhibition match at the other St. James’.

One year later, Alnwick Town finished as runners-up in Division Two, earning ascension to the next tier. After their relegation two years later, Alnwick were twice runners-up in the Craven Cup. However, the club were no longer challenging at the top of the table, and were ultimately consigned to relegation in 2006/07, having propped up the rest of the division, as well as failing to meet the ground criteria.

The appointment of a shadow committee at the end of the 2007/08 campaign steadied the Alnwick ship, and, after being awarded Charter Standard Club status in 2009. Alnwick kicked on, finishing as runners-up in the Northern Alliance Premier League in 2010/11. Although they finished a respectable 16th in their first season back, Town finished a lowly 21st the next, spared the drop only by virtue of Ryhope’s failure to get their ground up to scratch. The Northumberland outfit will be hoping for a far less stressful campaign this time around.

the history

the visitors 17

Nickname: TownGround: St. James’s ParkChairman: Tom McKie

Rivals: -Largest home crowd 2013/14: 126 v Heaton Stan.Distance travelled tonight (approx.): 33 miles

Brian BrooksFormer Alnwick Junior with over 300 games for the club between the sticks, Brian is Town’s number one - however, some would say his talents are wasted in goal. He has also turned out for Shilbottle.

Danny LowesDanny has been a first team regular since the age of 18, excelling anywhere along the back line, but also possesses an eye for goal, and loves attacking down the flank.

Bryan MurrayTown’s club captain, Bryan is the heart and soul of Alnwick Town, with over 400 games for the club, leading by example. He can play anywhere along the back line, but excels at right-back.

Tom MacPhersonTom is a classy centre-half who dominates in the air at both ends of the pitch. He’s made a promising start to his career with Alnwick Town, and has been handed the captain’s armband for this coming campaign.

Jake LowesJake has also made the step up from the reserves this season, and will hopefully be the future of Alnwick’s left hand side for many years to come.

Tony BrownAnother former Shilbottle man, Tony is a classy creative midfielder known as Alnwick’s “Xavi”. He has an eye for goal and is also a threat in the air.

Kieran Hogg‘Nippa’ has progressed well since moving up from the reserves. He can play anywhere across the midfield, and can whip in a deadly cross.

Chris Kidd‘Balokiddy’ is another player from the reserves to make the step up this season. Seems to be made of glass, though - a slight problem for a footballer.

Dale KennedyDale has an unbelievable workrate and is non-stop for ninety minutes. He can play anywhere on the pitch, but is a real threat up front and tends to score important goals.

James JacksonJoined last season from Shilbottle, ‘Mins’ has a bright future ahead of him at the club. Deceptively quick for a tall lad, he will be hoping for more first team action this year in Dale Kennedy’s absence. Certainly one to watch.

Jon ColleyAnother player to make the step up from the reserves, Jonny has contributed with goals and assists throughout the season whilst becoming a first team regular. He has also turned out for local side Embleton.

Ben Keenan‘Di Keenio’ has been the leading goalscorer for the past three seasons, endearing himself to the Alnwick faithful. He is also vastly experienced at Northern League level, always proving a handful for the opposition defences.

Michael RobinsonMichael has joined the club this year and got his first goal of the season in the 2-2 draw away to Thornaby.

the players

From fringes to first team

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town 18

In August2012, West Allotment Celtic’s new-look squad was finally taking shape.

Midfield mainstays like Ian Dunn, Sean Reid and Michael Bell were supplemented by new faces from the pre-season trials. Some, like Andy Charlton and Shaun Quinn, found their chances limited, leaving the club in the hope of finding first-team football. Few would have predicted that another unassuming triallist would go on to make 24 appearances for the club over the course of the campaign - ousting higher-profile players in the process.

26-year-old Marc Allen has become a regular name on the teamsheet, often featuring in one of the three midfield berths - but just two years ago, he was turning out for the Alliance subsidiary of another ambitious Northern League club. “I played all the way through Whitley Bay’s academy, and I got to Whitley Bay Reserves,” he explained. “We trained with the first team and whatnot, but they were flying at that point when I was there, winning Vases for fun. “‘Alge’ counts a number of Bay players as friends, most

notably current captain Craig MacFarlane, but any chance of playing alongside him in the Seahorses’ successful team was scuppered by his occupation. “After a couple of seasons there, I was working every Saturday, so I had to pack it (the football) in.”

His work situation soon changed, affording him the chance to play at the weekend - and, with his desire for Saturday football still very much burning, he joined Sunday league teammate Liam Hudson at Whitley Park. He hasn’t looked back since.

“I think I was just happy to get amongst it, really. We’ve got a strong starting eleven on paper. Even in the first season when I joined, there were a lot of players on trial, and I was happy to get in, and you’ve just got to earn your chance once you do get in, try and play well. Not like today!”

Allen was speaking off the back of Allotment’s 3-1 defeat on the west coast, and was unashamedly honest in his assessment of the performance. “What I think, some games, a few players have an off game,

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

Two years ago, Marc Allen was turning out for a reserve side. Now, he’s an integral member

of a Northern League squad gunning for promotion...

the feature 19

but today I think literally, one to eleven, we had an off game. Normally it’s when we get to half-time that our performance changes, but the first goal, it was like we were a different team afterwards. Normally we are quite good at harrying around, doing all the work like Wilf would say, matching teams, but we didn’t really match them today. That was probably why we got beat. Deservedly.”

Marc made his fifth start of the season that afternoon, but unwittingly contributed to Whitehaven’s victory with their third, and ultimately final, goal - though he insists he was not the only party at fault. “To be honest, me and Ryan have had a chat, he’s admitted that he was flat-footed, and he’s taken total blame for it. He’ll hold his hands up!” said Allen, tongue firmly in cheek. “It came off my shin, it bobbled up...I think I had time, but I didn’t realise I had time. It was one of them. The second own goal of my career!”

The tireless midfielder has, on rather spectacular occasion, put the ball in the back of the other net, but is more comfortable dictating the play from a less advanced position when he gets the chance. “I prefer screening, I think. I like to do it simple, play the five, ten yard passes, but against Horden, you play me a little bit further up and I’ll score screamers! Nah, I prefer sitting

in front of the back four, keeping it simple, starting off attacks.”

His preferred role is often occupied by none other than the club captain, and, with five more players jostling for just two starting berths, Allen insists that it keeps everyone on their toes. “I think it is probably without doubt the strongest area in the team at the minute. But it’s good, because it brings out the best in you. We’ve got different types of players, so for aggressive, physical games, we can change the whole look of the team. But then other games, we can play football and get the footballers on.”

That brand of football was sorely lacking in the furthest reaches of Cumbria,but ‘Alge’ has no doubt that the versatile Celtic squad can compete. “It’s annoying that we’ve hit a bit of a lull, but we haven’t really hit fourth or fifth gear yet, and we’ve still picked up quite a few points. We’ve only lost two, and the two draws were disappointing, because again, we should have been a lot better. If we hit fourth or fifth gear, then we can beat the

majority of teams in the league comfortably.”

Arguably one of Allotment’s breakout stars last season, Marc is an integral member of a squad that has its sights on the top tier - and, with any luck, the midfielder might find himself turning out at the Bay once more. Only this time, he’d be a member of the first team - and he’d be wearing the green and white hoops of their Celtic adversaries.

20

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

Seaton Sluice United edged a seven-goal thriller on the coast in a Northern League encounter. Celtic goals from Ken Barnes, Peacock and an OG weren’t enough to counter the powerful hosts who found the net four times.

1954

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town on this day

Despite a goal from Doug Noble, North Shields Reserves knocked Allotment out of the Northumberland Hospitals

Cup with a 2-1 win. The match was actually a replay as the two teams had drawn one-all at Backworth several weeks

earlier.

1974

The clash of the previous seasons top two in the Northern Alliance proved to be a bit of a disappointment.

Although Allotment dented Seaton Delaval Amateurs hopes of retaining their title with a 2-1 win at Backworth Welfare, it was Celtic keeper Dave Marshall who proved

to be man of the match. Nevertheless, despite the dominance of the Amateurs it was the home side that

took the lead when Paul Jeffery sent a downward header wide of Tullin in the visitors’ goal. A header brought the

equaliser too when Rob Cross out-jumped the home defence and steered the ball in via the upright. The

winner arrived fifteen minutes from time when Steve Forster slid in between two Delaval defenders to force the ball home. Marshall then kept his side’s lead intact with two excellent late saves from Jimmy Moses and

Graham Walton.

1993

1982

Celtic were on their way to retaining the Northern Amateur League title and made further progress with a

3-1 win over Gosforth Bohemians at Backworth Welfare. Daz Ridley scored twice and he was joined on the

scoresheet by Peter Jackson.

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town on this day

tonight’s match sponsor

thank you for your support

QUALITY AND SERVICEWensley Roofing Ltd is a leading roofing contractor in North East England.

The business started in 1987 and has an excellent reputation built on a strong commitment to quality, training and customer service. The company provides a comprehensive range of roofing services including slating, tiling, leadwork, felting

and liquid roofing. Work includes new build and refurbishment of domestic, public sector and commercial properties, and renovation and restoration of heritage

sites (see also our heritage division Matthew Charlton Slaters). Our clients include local authorities, housing associations, NHS trusts, churches, universities and major

house builders.

Our core area of operation is in the North East region, from Northumberland to North Yorkshire, but we also undertake contracts in other areas of the UK, notably

Cumbria, Scottish Borders, South and West Yorkshire.

www.wensleyroofing.co.uk

-----------------------------------CUT HERE----CUT HERE----CUT HERE---------------------------------

Name: Contact number:

What 5 letters would you like? Choose each letter only once.

For only £1 per draw, you choose 5 letters. 3 different letters are drawn and if your letters match the ones drawn you receive a share of the £800 jackpot – the jackpot is shared between everyone who has chosen the winning letters. The jackpot must be won every week. To play, simply hand the complete the form below and hand it to a club official.

the letter draw2nd October 20132 winners of £400 eachF W Y

- All the latest news and events- Match previews and reports for every Allotment game- Picture galleries past and present- Back issues of Three Miles West, the official club magazine, and the club’s matchday programmes

west allotment celtic fc .com

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

“W E never - never - get anything in

Cumbria.” Treasurer John Alexander called it before the game, during the game, and again afterwards. In the broadest sense, it wasn’t quite true. Much like last October, we were treated to a healthy dose of sunshine at the seaside town of Whitehaven. Some would say it was optimum conditions for a game of football - the goalkeepers, blinded by autumn rays for forty-five minutes apiece, would no doubt disagree. In terms of the football, however, John did have a point. Last year, we all made the 110-mile trip to the opposite coast, only to lose by one solitary goal in a remarkably even game. There were quibbles at the time that Craig Robson had strayed offside before finishing past Beal, whilst at the other end, Reid almost had his shirt taken off in the box, such was the ferocity of the tugging. Nothing was given, the referee erroneously believing that Reidy was simply incapable of dressing himself. One year on, and it seemed that Allotment’s fortunes along the A69 had scarcely improved. Two red

cards and two astonishing penalty awards stood as testament to that fact. Mr. Golightly had inadvertently nipped any rumblings of Cumbrian bias in the bud this time around, as the referee lived a matter of minutes away from our humble village. Rumours of him travelling on our coach from the Social Club proved to be inaccurate. Ultimately, the man in the middle took a back seat, as Celtic’s less-than-popular interpretation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde once again stole the show. A bright start on our part yielded the early goal, but the reshuffled team were soon in disarray. Whitehaven’s two quickfire goals were pleasing on the eye - probably moreso for their disappointingly sparse supporters. Ex-Hartlepool forward Tymon looked a real handful, scoring the first and playing his part in a fine flowing team move for the second. Their third, coming shortly after the break, would have rivalled both Tymon and Holliday’s goals, had it come from the boot of a Whitehaven attacker. Instead, it was Marc Allen who raced to meet a square ball, deflecting it high

past Beal with his first touch. In all fairness, the ball was on its way towards the predatory Tymon, who would have made it three regardless. Allotment’s luck had not made the journey across Cumbria with them, and so the next thirty minutes would prove. After being handed his last warning, the carded Tymon scythed down Dunn, but no second yellow was forthcoming. Dormand spurned two chances, McKenna another, and even from twelve yards, we couldn’t claw our way back into it. We only hit the desired target once more, Liam Hudson pinging the ball with purportedly accidental accuracy at the man in black. “I’m booking you for kicking it away, it’s irrelevant that it hit me,” insisted the ref. Sometimes we don’t get the rub of the green. Other times, we don’t get the decisions. Many times, we don’t get the result that we deserve. But, on this particular day, we didn’t get the performance required to win a tough game against worthy opponents.

goal of the weekMcKenna scored the game’s only goal, a simple tap-in after decent control in the box.

man of the weekFew players shone in defeat, but Chris Douglas had a decent game at full-back.

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town 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

770

10 (1)11

11 (2)1 (1)124

2 (3)10

1 (4)

12 (1)8 (2)5 (4)11 (1)2 (5)7 (1)0 (2)11

9 (2)9 (2)

00

5 (6)

yel

100

121100000

20010001

10000

red

000

000010000

01000000

00000

asts

000

012021100

03012000

50002

player statisticstop scorers

the playmakers

the mainstays

the bad boys

average starting XIBeal

StonemanFordDouglas Dummett

Dormand

Hudson

Dunn Bell

Reid

Sean Reid - 6Ian Dunn - 6

David Dormand - 6

Liam Hudson - 5Michael Bell - 3

Lawrence McKenna - 2

Ian Dunn - 12Paul Stoneman - 12Chris Douglas - 11

Paul Stoneman - 0 1Michael Bell - 0 1

Marc Dummett - 1 0

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town the player statistics24

Lee

gls

000

111010000

60160002

26003

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

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 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 D2NL D2Lg Cup

AAAAHH

HHAHHAA

AHHHAAHH

AHAHH

HHAH

AHAA

HAH

HAHAH

AHAA

AAH

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 3-1

Alnwick TownHeaton StanningtonBillingham SynthoniaWillingtonStokesley SCWhickham

Seaham Red StarStokesley SCNorton & StocktonEsh WinningRyton & CrawcrookPenrithDarlington 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-StreetSouth ShieldsNorthallerton Town

fixtures andresults

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

12345678910111213141516171819202122

1213111113131510131391211131012141513131212

9987675666655444443311

2103416222121322223111

133135425525564689791010

391022131684117418-1-11-7-5-10-13-14-6-31-19-35

292824242222212020201917161514141414121044

team pl w d l gd pts

nl div 2 table

OFFICIAL NORTHERNLEAGUE SPONSORS

rottweiler’s notes

West Allotment Celtic v Alnwick Town rottweiler’s notes26

Morgan arrives at her normal time, has breakfast, then I take her to school. After that, off to Newcastle with Barbara, then home in time to collect Morgan from school.

Same as above, then match assessor at Whitley Bay v Guisborough Town. Match abandoned after 50 minutes due to foggy conditions.

This is becoming tedious; same as Monday and Tuesday, except we don’t collect Morgan from school.

Barbara hasn’t been well all week and we are due to fly to the Algarve tomorrow. Chair NFA Referees Committee Meeting in the afternoon. When I arrive home, Barbara’s condition has worsened. In the evening, Barbara is diagnosed with pneumonia. The doctor says it is a mild case, but she has to stay in bed for two to three days. I will be glad when this year is over. Everything has gone wrong.

House is very quiet due to Barbara’s illness and we have a number of emails and texts wishing Barbara well. Very nice to receive so many. October match officials appointments arrive, and I wonder if the referee wants a lift on the team coach to Whitehaven next Saturday. He lives 2.7 miles from our ground. I don’t believe I need say any more. Mind you, we have had a referee appointed just recently to one of our home games and he lives in West Allotment. These appointments put a lot of unfair pressure on the referees.

Spend the day at home trying to keep Barbara happy, which is virtually impossible at the best of times. I know by tea time she is feeling better as she is shouting at me. Still, that is a good sign. By evening time, Barbara is not so well after all.

Here is a bit more for the bugger (Mike Amos) to write. The bloodhound and I attend Sunderland v Liverpool today as guests of Wensley Roofing, and, unbelievably, bloodhound is wearing a Liverpool FC tie. A three course meal, drinks and a seat in the Directors Box thanks to Alex. During the game, I am astonished at the behaviour of a very senior Sunderland official swearing at Liverpool Directors as they celebrate Liverpool’s second goal. I have been very fortunate in life to have been afforded hospitality at some big and famous grounds, including Wembley, however today’s hospitality was the very best I have ever had. To round off the day, bloodhound wins £20 by forecasting the correct score.

Committee

meeting

8pmRingtheBloodhound!

23rd

Sept

24th

Sept

25th

Sept

26th

Sept

27th

Sept

28th

Sept

29th

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.

Brian BROOKSMarc MAVINDan MULLENDanny LOWESDavid HILLSTom MACPHERSONJake LOWESLee DUNDASAlex MAKINBryan MURRAY (c)Tony BROWNKevin ELLIOTTChristopher KIDDKieran HOGGJames JACKSONBen KEENANThomas TRUSCOTTJon COLLEYDale KENNEDYDan THOMPSONPeter MURRAYDanny DONOHOERoss MORTONMikey HALLRoss STRAUGHAN

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

AlnwickTown

Referee: P OSGOOD Assistants: B MALCOLM P MOSLEY

Manager: Paul STONEMAN Manager: Paul YEADON

Follow us@wacfc

Find us onFacebook

www.westallotmentcelticfc.com

WADE FINANCIAL