allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

THOMASPOTTER

up for the cup

Allotment’s last shot at cup

silverware kicks off tonight

BROOKS MILESON MEMORIAL LEAGUE CUP WEDNESDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 2013

northallerton town

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contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the last meeting

the preview

the visitors

up for this cup

the letter draw

the onion bag

on this day

the player statistics

fixtures, results, table

rottweiler’s notes

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welcome10

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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 Northallerton 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.

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West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town6

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 David BorleyCM 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 Northallerton 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.

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town10

23RD NOVEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

WEST Allotment Celtic were made to

curse their luck in front of goal for the second time in a fortnight against Chester-le-Street, player-manager Paul Stoneman’s injury-time header salvaging a 2-2 draw at Whitley Park.

The two teams traded opportunities early on, Damien Stevens firing over for the visitors, before Liam Hudson and David Dormand placed efforts off target, but the four of Celtic’s bestchances came within the same move, with Dormand, Sean Reid, Dormand again and David Henderson all denied by desperate goalkeeping and defending in a frenetic few seconds.

The Cestrians almost took

advantage of the let-off, Beal’s weak punch from a corner falling to Michael Hepplewhite, but his goalbound effort was cleared off the line by the returning Glenn Ford.

A further effort from Stevens forced a routine save from Beal, but Celtic attacked at will thereafter. Dormand spurned another superb chance, once again slipping inside his defensive counterpart, only to blast the ball over the crossbar. Reid spurned two half-chances, whilst Dormand and Ian Dunn saw further attempts blocked and saved respectively.

With two minutes left before the half-time whistle, Allotment belatedly made the breakthrough that their play deserved. Hudson beat full-

the last match

back Kevin Dixon to the byline, and his deep cross was headed in at the back post by Michael Bell, rising highest to give his side a slender lead at the break.

Chester-le-Street threw on John Honour at half-time, and the forward should have levelled within minutes of his introduction, but his feeble attempt from within the box was comfortably blocked en route to goal. Nevertheless, they were level moments later, courtesy of a large slice of luck. Beal and Stoneman should have easily dealt with a fizzing Michael Graver cross, but untimely miscommunication between the pair resulted in the ball bundling in off the centre-half. Reid stuck the top of the crossbar with a header as Celtic mustered a strong

West Allotment Celtic 2 Chester-le-Street Town 2

11the last match

...in picturesresponse, whilst Beal had to be alert to parry the ball from Hepplewhite’s feet at the other end, before Allotment’s Reid spurned an incredible chance, springing the offside trap, but skewing a simple one-on-one wide of the far post.

Further misplaced attempts came from the boots of Bell and Dunn, and another Reid header that was tipped away expertly by Ryan Graham, but as Celtic pushed for the winner, Town almost pulled ahead. Stevens capitalised on a Stoneman error, but fluffed his lines in front of goal. The relief was short-lived, as Chester looked to have stolen all three points at the death, courtesy of another fortuitous moment. Hepplewhite’s deep cross from the left veered unexpectedly towards goal, catching out Beal and sailing into the far corner.

With just added minutes left on the clock, Allotment looked to have let the game slip through their fingers – but there was time yet for one last twist. The hosts threw everything into the box, including their imposing veteran centre-half, who atoned for his earlier mistake with a powerful header that, was adjudged to have crossed the line.

A draw was the very least that Allotment deserved on the day, but despite the late nature of the leveller, the Celtic camp will feel like it’s two points dropped rather than one point gained.

with graeme jackson

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town 12

16TH NOVEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO NISSAN SPORTS COMPLEX

T HREE second-half goals from Sean

Reid, Liam Hudson and Lawrence McKenna set West Allotment Celtic on course for a 3-0 win at home to Northallerton Town, another side looking to contend for promotion this season.

The victory was not as comprehensive as the scoreline may suggest, as Town spurned a host of chances of their own, but were made to rue their profligacy by a far more clinical Celtic side.

The Yorkshiremen fashioned the first opportunity of the evening through debutant Freddie Huscroft, the towering forward turning inside John Pendlebury and firing just wide

of ‘keeper Bob Rodgerson’s far post. Allotment responded with two half-chances of their own, with a Liam Hudson cross evading Sean Reid by mere inches, before David Dormand half-volleyed an awkward attempt wide of goal.

The visitors should have taken the lead after twenty minutes of play – and were a lick of paint away from doing so. After Huscroft’s goalbound strike was blocked, the ball found its way to the dangerous Colin Anderson, who skipped around Rodgerson, only to fire against the woodwork following good pressure from full-back Chris Douglas.

Wide man Christian Holliday was next to miss the target for Town, and Darren Kokes saw

the last meeting

an effort deflected away from harm, but it was Celtic who finished the half in stronger fashion, and were similarly guilty of missing a gilt-edged chance before the interval. Dormand burst clear of the back four, with only Alex Kell standing between him and the opening goal, but the ‘keeper did well to save and hold the forward’s attempt.

The break did little to halt Celtic’s resurgence, and, after Dormand poked over within moments of the restart, the hosts were handed the chance to break the deadlock from twelve yards, with Howlett’s challenge on Liam Hudson deemed to be a foul. The midfield playmaker sent Kell the wrong way with his powerful penalty.

West Allotment Celtic 3 Northallerton Town 0

the last meeting 13

Allotment almost put daylight between themselves and their hardworking opponents, but Kallum McGlen’s low drive thundered off the post and back into the arms of the relieved Kell. Celtic almost regretted their misfortune minutes later, as Northallerton Town went desperately close to levelling the scores. Daniel McLachlan found space for himself deep in West Allotment’s penalty area, but the superb Rodgerson was equal to his effort, saving and holding an effort that should have been placed far beyond his reach.

The third-choice deputy was there again to deny Peter Mulcaster’s men an equaliser in a back-and-forth encounter, tipping Holliday’s deft cross away from the waiting Anderson at the back post. And yet, just as Town were pushing hard for the leveller, Allotment doubled their advantage. Dormand’s volleyed pass floated over the backline and into Northallerton’s final third, but ‘keeper Kell hesitated in coming for the ball, and Hudson powered forward to beat him to it, deftly lobbing the ball over his head and into the bottom corner.

Northallerton and their vociferously vocal fans felt that they should have had a

penalty of their own following a debatable Ian Dunn handball in the box, but their pleas fell on deaf ears. At the other end, fresh introduction Connor Graham almost made it three with his first meaningful touch of the game, but his finish from the hardworking Dormand’s tee-up was poked away by the leg of Kell.

With fifteen minutes left on the clock, there was still time for Town to haul themselves back into it, but any chance of that soon dissipated after the most shocking miss of the evening, courtesy of centre-forward McLachlan. Another floated ball from Holliday found the 24-year-old in acres of space, but his header from eight yards sailed high and wide of the target.

The latest in a string of misses knocked the wind out of Northallerton’s sails, and Allotment – the stronger of the two sides in the second half – wrapped up the victory with a third and final goal in the dying moments. David Henderson weaved his magic from midfield, dancing around three desperate challenges in the box and laying it into the path of substitute McKenna, who made no mistake from close range.

West Allotment

Celtic ultimately deserved to take all three points from a hotly-contested match, having stepped up their game in the second half. Town played their part but found Stoneman and Little tough to beat at the back, and when they did, their own wastefulness – combined with the presence of the assured Rodgerson between the sticks – served to keep their forwards off the scoresheet.

Liam Hudson won the penalty for the first and grabbed the second himself

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town14

the pre-match preview

WEST Allotment Celtic’s promotion

push has hit something of a stumbling block of late, having won just one of their last four league games, but will hope that the League Cup provides the side with a much-needed boost.

Celtic have thus far suffered their fair share of misfortune in other cup competitions, but have also failed to hit the target when it mattered most - a worrying trend that has crept into their league form, with wasteful finishing once again accountable for

SINCE their defeat at Whitley Park four

weeks ago, Northallerton Town have, much like West Allotment, endured a rather inconsistent period of form.

Prior to the 3-0 defeat in late October, Town occupied fourth place in Division Two, but have slipped further down the table as their rivals played out their respective games in hand. The Yorkshiremen now lie in sixth place, but four of the five teams above them still have at least two games to extend their advantage.

the two points dropped at home to Chester-le-Street on Saturday.

The situation has been exacerbated by the absence of Lawrence McKenna, who remains out with a knee injury. However, player-manager Paul Stoneman may have one his side’s top scorers from last season at his disposal tonight, as Dean Lee returns from a knee injury sustained six weeks ago. Likewise, fellow winger Tony Lancaster continued his recovery from a knee injury of his own, featuring in the ‘A’ team’s 6-1 victory

Following on from the last meeting, Northallerton disposed of Teesside outfit Thornaby - but only just, seeing off a late comeback from the Blues to win 3-2.

Peter Mulcaster’s men were not so fortunate against Wearside League side Redcar Athletic in the North Riding Senior Cup, never recovering from a poor first half in a 3-2 reverse.

Town almost suffered a similar fate when they returned to league action, Darren Kokes’ last-gasp goal rescuing a home draw against Willington.

Halfway through the month, Northallerton look to have got their second wind, putting six past South Shields in the EA Cup, with sub Daniel Baxter bagging a quickfire brace. Another strong showing secured a draw against tricky opponents in Seaham Red Star, top scorer Colin Anderson’s strike earning Town a hard-earned share of the spoils.

This cup fixture has forced Town to make another 120-mile round trip in midweek - and it could be another long night if they fail to progress to the next round.

over the weekend.

In defence, Marc Dummett expects to be fit enough to feature tonight, but Stephen Little remains banned for two more games, with Glenn Ford expected to fill his boots in defence. Chris Bannon, Kallum McGlen and Marc Allen are all expected to miss out.

If Allotment are to keep up with their high-flying rivals in the league, they will need to rediscover their form in front of goal - and where better to find it than amidst the magic of a cup run?

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the preview 15

statattack

56

60The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park

No. of goals scored by Town thus far

No. of points separating the two teams last season

0

12No. of points Town have picked up onthe road

29-year-old centre-half GlennFord made an unexpectedreturn to the first team onSaturday afternoon. Despitesuffering from a doublehernia, the formerPonteland United starstepped up to the plate,filling in for the suspendedStephen Little. Alongsideplayer-manager PaulStoneman, ‘Fordy’ lastedeighty minutes, and willbe expected to put inanother shift for the sidein the centre of defencethis evening.

league meetings

P W D L F A 7 2 1 4 15 19 6 6 0 0 13 2 13 8 1 4 28 21

25-year-old poacher Colin Anderson technically leads the club’s scoring charts with ten league goals, ahead of another experienced NL player in Darren Kokes, who has nine strikes to his name. Together, the pair will be looking to fire Northallerton out of Division Two.

northallerton town

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town16

IN 1982, they were among the founding members of the Northern League

Division Two, they gained promotion to Division One by finishing second in 1989–90.

They had huge success in the early 90s reaching the last 16 of the FA Trophy, finally losing to Farnborough Town; they also reached the 4th qualifying round of the FA Cup in 1992 and 1993, losing to Accrington Stanley and Witton Albion. Town also started to attract some undesirable support with crowd trouble at Accrington, Workington & Witton, however this was short lived, as was the club’s success, going bust in 1994. The ground was sold off to a businessman with no interest in football. Debts were cleared on liquidation; however the club then had to find rent on a monthly basis.

The club changed their name to Northallerton F.C. 1994 in 1994, and were relegated back into Division Two in the 1994–95 season. They soon shot back up they secured the league championship during 1996–97 and were promoted back to Division One. They were relegated once more the following season though, and reverted their club name back to Northallerton Town in 1999.

During the 2002–03 season, Town reached the 4th round of the FA Vase, before being knocked out 3–0 to Burgess Hill Town. For the 2005–06 season, they were runners-up in Northern League Division Two and were promoted.The club flirted with relegation for the whole of

the 2007–08 season, surviving after a departing Andy Toman led his men to an unlikely final day 2–1 away win at Morpeth Town. Alan Robinson was appointed manager however decided to emigrate just before the start of the season. Former Doncaster Rovers player Martyn Speight and vastly experienced Northern League goalkeeper Stuart Dawson were thrown in at the deep end as joint managers. Town hovered around the relegation zone for the second season in succession. Dawson resigned from the club on 5 January 2009, and it was left to sole manager Martyn Speight to improve performances and results. This was achieved to some degree, however the club still struggled, leading to the departure of Speight after a 5–1 home defeat to lowly Ashington.

The club’s Division One tenure looked questionable, however the Committee moved quickly and appointed Mark Fanning as the new manager. His appointment was too late to save the club from relegation, finishing bottom of the league and a miserable run of results at the end of the season.

Last season, he guided the club to their first silverware in 18 years when they came from behind to beat Second Division champions Team Northumbria 3-2 in the final of the Ernest Armstrong Cup. Fanning and his assistant Martin Collins resigned in March 2013 so Mulcaster returned to take over for a third time, initially until the end of the season. But following a good run of results which saw the club reach the final of the Ernest Armstrong Cup again, Mulcaster was offered the job on a permanent basis. Unfortunately Northallerton were beaten 3-1 in the final by West Allotment Celtic.

the history

the visitors 17

Nickname: TownGround: Calvert StadiumChairperson: Les Hood

Rivals: Stokesley, Darlington R.A.Largest home crowd 2013/14: 155 v StokesleyDistance travelled tonight (approx.): 60 miles

Dean HudsonHaving come through the Northallerton Academy ranks last season, 22-year-old Deano has taken over as number one this season.

Grant HickmanSigned from Darlington FC, Grant made his debut in 2008/09, and is now in his fifth season at the club. He was the only ever-present in 2010/11 and was winner of Management Player of the Season that year.

Daniel ShoulderAn experienced defender now in his fifth season with Town, Danny has previously turned out for the likes Shildon, West Auckland and Darlington RA. Twice awarded Player’s Player of the Year and Club Vice-Captain.

Stephen BanksDefender Stephen signed last season, having played first division football with Tow Law Town Former clubs include Jarrow Roofing, Esh Winning and Chester-le-Street.

Sean DaviesThe 28-year-old stopper signed from Crook Town this summer, having been part of the side that won promotion to Division One. Sean is a strong defender who has had Football League experience while with Scarborough.

Ian SmurthwaiteTough tackling midfielder is now in his fourth season at the club. ‘Smurf’ had previously been at Darlington FC. The 22-year-old can also play at centre-half.

Gavin ParkinNew club captain Gav, a cultured midfield player, has previously played with Darlington, Bishop Auckland and Consett. Won the Player of the Year award at the end of last season.

Andrew PorrittVersatile Pozza, who can play in defence or midfield, joined Town from Wearside League club Redcar Athletic towards the end of last season. Was voted Young Player of the Year by the fans.

Dale ElgieFormerly of Darlington RA, where he led out the side as captain for two seasons, tough tackling midfielder Elgie has signed on for Northallerton this campaign.

Colin AndersonIn his third spell with the club following a successful season in the Teesside League with Richmond Town, where he finished as the league’s leading scorer.

Darren KokesExperienced striker Kokesy arrived at Town this summer from Esh Winning. The 29-year-old has previously turned out for South Shields, and will look to lead the line for Town this campaign.

Graham CaygillAfter an impressive pre-season, 23-year-old centre-forward Graham has been promoted from Northallerton Town’s Academy side. He scored over 20 goals in the Teesside League last season, and will look to do the same for the first team.

the players The pen profiles of some of Northallerton Town’s key squad members

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town 18

up for this cup

Allotment were on the receiving end of a four-goal defeat at Billingham Synthonia, having pushed the Division One outfit an awful lot more than the deceptive scoreline suggests.

A reshuffled Celtic side more than matched their opponents on the day, only to be caught on the break by Synthonia, Matty Osmond scoring at the second attempt after floating unmarked behind the defence.

The scoreline remained close until the last twenty minutes, and the visitors were made to regret Sean Reid’s narrow miss, as moments later, Nathan Porritt put daylight between the two sides.

Glenn Ford headed agonisingly wide as Celtic pressed, but Jim Wilson took advantage of a defensive error to kill the game off, before the impressive Porritt chipped Beal, adding gloss to what was a very close encounter at the Glamal.

fa cupfirst round qualifying4-0 defeat

A combination of highly questionable officiating and a lack of composure ended a potentially moneyspinning run for Allotment in the Vase, as Penrith enjoyed their home comforts.

Ian Dunn’s deflected header put the visitors ahead early on, only for a swift Penrith counter to be finished off by Cameron Wilson. Steven Rigg’s twenty-five yard strike turned it around before half-time, and the Cumbrians could have been two ahead after a dubious penalty award, only for Ryan Beal to keep out the spot kick.

A second soft penalty was gifted to Penrith after the break. Beal repeated his previous heroics, but couldn’t prevent Celtic’s game from unravelling. Paul Stoneman was sent off after retaliating to Rigg’s assault, and the midfielder scored Penrith’s third from the resulting free-kick. A frustrated Michael Bell was dismissed soon after the restart for a late lunge, before Ricky Faustino added a fourth for the heavily favoured hosts.

fa vasesecond round qualifying4-1 defeat

up for this cup 19

After the cup success of last year ended an eight year silverware drought, Allotment have just one more chance to win a knockout competition - against the team they defeated to lift the EA Cup in May. Here’s how Celtic fared in the other competitions...

Two Tony Brown penalties at either end of the game ultimately put West Allotment Celtic’s hopes of progression to the sword.

His first came fifteen minutes into the game after ‘keeper Chris Bannon was adjudged to have brought down Dale Kennedy in the box. Having threatened throughout the half, some fine football from Allotment brought them level prior to the break, Dean Lee finishing off a flowing team move, albeit injuring his knee in the process.

Sean Reid and David Dormand both spurned free headers, whilst Ian Dunn and Chris Douglas went one better, striking the bar and post respectively,

Sensing the opportunity to seize a late win, Alnwick applied the pressure, and were rewarded when debutant Alex Nisbet hauled down an attacker in the box in the final minute. A red card and penalty award followed, with Brown once again beating Bannon from twelve yards.

senior cupfirst round 2-1 defeat

A second-string Allotment side proved to be no match for Willington in the opening round of the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup, as the holder’s defence of the trophy capitulated at the earliest stage.

The County Durham hosts were the more confident side throughout, and took a deserved lead through full-back Aidan Goodey, his free-kick from thirty yards clipping the underside of the bar on its way into the top corner. Liam Whitworth doubled their advantage before half-time, before captain Tom Lazonby killed the game off early in the second half with a close-range finish.

Spanish winger Bart Oliver-Berga gave Allotment a sliver of hope, capitalising on a defensive error to smash home, but as the visitors pressed for a way back into the tie, Willington grabbed the fourth and final goal of the evening, David Pinkney consigning last year’s winners to defeat.

ea cupfirst round4-1 defeat

fa vasesecond round qualifying4-1 defeat

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

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21 West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town the onion bag

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

LAST-minute goals are something to be relished

and dreaded in equal measure. They can electrify the terraces one final time, puff out chests and shatter hearts. Consolations are naturally exempt from the rule, but that should go without saying. West Allotment have scored more than their fair share of timely point-winners. Who could forget Marc Dummett’s sumptuous free-kick that completed the turnaround against Stokesley? Or Sean Reid’s late winner in a see-saw Seaham encounter? Or his last-gasp leveller at Norton & Stockton? Or the strike that secured a win at wind-swept Brandon? (The 21-year-old is an early bloomer and a latecomer, it would seem.) That said, the tables have been turned on occasion. The draw at home to Esh Winning, ceded after eighty-eight minutes of dominance (not to mention scored by our own centre-half), will live long in the memory as two points dropped. A late Tony Brown penalty spared us all from extra time against Alnwick Town, whilst Darren Reay’s finish - Jarrow Roofing’s fifth of the day - was

a killer blow in the promotion match-up. Celtic are arguably still recovering to this day. The final five at Whitley Park are often the most adrenalin-fuelled, sweat-inducing moments of the afternoon or eve, but they are not always the most enjoyable. That much was evident on Saturday afternoon when Chester-le-Street came to town. Less than five minutes remained on the clock, and the scores were astonishingly still level at 1-1, despite the hosts’ dominant showing. The seconds ebbed away, and with them, any hope of those two additional points. Then Michael Hepplewhite picked up the ball out wide on the left, found himself a little space, and lofted a hopeful ball into the box. It deviated from its intended trajectory, veering further left, over the head of Ryan Beal and into the far corner. He celebrated like he meant it, but much like the Cestrians’ first, it was entirely unintentional. That hollow feeling of disappointment flooded the home stand, washing away that impatient sense of anticipation. The players didn’t give up hope quite so readily, throwing bodies forward at will and forcing the latest of

corners. Chris Douglas’ delivery towards the penalty spot was met by the criminally unmarked Paul Stoneman, who guided his header approximately three and a half inches over the line. After some nerve-wracking deliberation between the referee and his assistant, the goal was given. It should have been a gleeful moment - and perhaps it would have been, had the end result been three valuable points. Instead, West Allotment’s player-manager had only managed to salvage one third of what his side were worth on the day. The climax of a thrilling ten minutes still felt decidedly anti-climatic. Of course, Stona wouldn’t have to pop up with 93rd-minute levellers if our attackers had delivered in the ninety-two which preceded it. Reid aside, the attackers have not been finding the back of the net of late. With some luck, and plenty of faith, the likes of Dormand and Hudson will be back on the scoresheet sooner rather than later. Just past the halfway point, we are only five points off the summit. Time is on our side - but we have to start putting teams away before that final whistle in May.

goal of the weekCeltic took the lead via a fine header from Michael Bell, who rose high towards the back post and did well to keep his header down.

man of the weekGlenn Ford was solid upon his return; impressive after a lack of match action, owing to a persistent - and painful - injury.

on this day...

Ringtons Welfare were beaten 2-1 at the Farm Ground in a Northern Amateur League clash.

1948

1954Allotment were on their way to the final of the NFA Amateur Cup (where they lost to

Wallsend Rising Sun) and brushed off St.Columbas on their own ground to the tune of 7-1. Peacock (2), Ken Barnes, Herriott, Allott and Mackay all found the net for Celtic and the

tally was topped up by an OG.

A Ray Taylor goal was not enough to stave off

defeat away to Blue Star in a Northern Amateur

League match.

1971

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town 22

1965Corbridge Rangers visited the Farm Ground in West Allotment and won a Hospitals Cup clash by the odd goal in three; Lawrence scoring Celtic’s goal.

Michael Chilton maintained his latest purple patch by lashing four goals into the Crook Town net in a Division 2 fixture at Milfield; this took Chilts’ run to sixteen goals in eight matches and he went on to reach 66 for the whole season! Allotment won the Crook game 5-2.

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

An Eric Chalmers strike earned Allotment a point from a league clash away to Whickham Sports.

1976

2004

Allotment travelled to meet the DHSS in a Northern Amateur League encounter and

returned with full points after claiming a 2-1 win. The Celtic marksmen were Daz Ridley and Dave

Allman.

1982

on this day 23

Goals from Dave Walton (2) and George Caithness were enough to see off Spittal Rovers in a Northern Alliance match played at Hillheads. The visitors did snatch a strike of their own in the 3-1 defeat.

1999

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

911

5 (2)

19 (2)15 (1)20 (2)1 (1)2215

2 (3)112

6 (7)

24 (1)13 (4)6 (6)22 (1)1 (1)1 (2)8 (7)17 (1)0 (2)12

1 (6)

17 (3)18 (5)8 (8)

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player statisticstop scorers

the playmakers

the mainstays

the bad boys

average starting XIBeal

StonemanLittlePendlebury Dummett

Dormand

Hudson

Dunn Henderson

Reid

Sean Reid - 16Ian Dunn - 6

David Dormand - 6

Liam Hudson - 10Michael Bell - 5

Chris Douglas - 5

Ian Dunn - 24Sean Reid - 22

Paul Stoneman - 22

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

Douglas

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West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town the player statistics24

AUGUST 10th

14th

17th

21st

24th

30th

SEPTEMBER 4th

7th

11th

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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 D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2

AAAAHH

HHAHHAA

AHHHAHH

AAHAAHHH

HHAH

AHAA

HAH

HAHAH

AHAA

A

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

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

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 StanSeahamWACNort & StockJarrowNorthallertonDarlo RAWillingtonBirtleyTow LawCh-le-StreetSouth ShieldsWhickhamWhitehavenStokesleyWashingtonThornabyAlnwickBrandonEsh WinningRyton

12345678910111213141516171819202122

20212120221823222019222119202023212120242221

141413121112111199986776655542

4325736453368424344323

2463436767

10759

1113121211161616

5618251817291911486-4-42

-16-18-25-13-18-25-53-37

4645414140393937323030302625232221191918149

team pl w d l gd pts

nl div 2 table

OFFICIAL NORTHERNLEAGUE SPONSORS

fixtures, results, table 25

rottweiler’s notes

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town rottweiler’s notes26

Barbara goes to Newcastle and I am left to my own devices for most of the day. Send paperwork off for last night’s game and a flurry of emails between the bugger (Mike Amos) and myself over secret shoppers. Of the bottom 20 clubs 15 are from Division Two which I find amazing as I am regularly match assessor at Division One games.

Barbara has hospital appointment then we are shopping until lunchtime. In the afternoon chair NFA Referees Committee meeting and we agree some radical changes which in my honest opinion will better our (NFA) referees. Collect Morgan from school and she decides she wants to stay the night which we obviously agree to.

A quiet day, in the evening I attend Northumberland Referees Society annual dinner at Gosforth Park Marriot Hotel with Mike Riley (Premier League Referees Boss) guest speaker. Quite a while since I last saw Mike and we have a chat over dinner. It was a nice evening out.

What a day for WAC at Washington. The chairman wins the raffle, vice chairman wins domino card and the lads put on a great show to collect three points. Arrive home and complete all the paper work.

Apart from taking Barbara to work spend all day at home.

On Monday’s emails seem to arrive from all directions, today though there appears to be more than ever.

Take Barbara to Kingston Park. In the afternoon meeting with Lucy may NFA RDO and come 1st March I have a feeling some persons within the refereeing fraternity will be upset. Well my response will be you have to move forward and accept the changes as they are for the better. Committee meeting in the evening and thankfully only five winners of the letter draw.

Spend most of the day in Newcastle, why on earth I said I would go with Barbara I don’t know.

Attend NFA Board and Council meetings then when they are finished Cup Committee meeting. A long evening.

Committee

meeting

8pmRingtheBloodhound!

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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.

www.westallotmentcelticfc.com

Dean HUDSONStephen CRAGGSMark HEMINGWAYGrant HICKMANDaniel SHOULDERPaul JOHNSONStephen BANKSSean DAVIESIan SMURTHWAITEGavin PARKIN (c)Christian HOLLIDAYDale ELGIENathan HEMINGBROUGHAndrew PORRITTDavid COOKEMikey STEVENSCraig TOMANColin ANDERSONGraham CAYGILLMike COLMANDanny McLACHLANDarren KOKES

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

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