allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

THOMASPOTTER

kallummcglenthe winger’s

spell in the first team - and

his first goal to boot

NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WEDNESDAY 30TH OCTOBER 2013

northallerton town

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contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the preview

the visitors

the cup final

the letter draw

the onion bag

on this day

the interview

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

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Club OfficialsPresidentChairmanVice-ChairmanSecretaryTreasurerCommercial

Committee

Press OfficerPhotographer

Backroom StaffManagerAssistant ManagerFirst Team CoachPhysio

Selected Club HonoursNorthern Alliance champions

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

Alex SmailesRoland MatherJimmy WilsonTed Ilderton

John AlexanderJonny Thompson

David DoddsPaul MasonAbove, plus

Al Liddle,Michael Wilson, Les Scott,

Kath Orr, Harry Bell, Stephen Allott,

Richie MarksCraig Dobson

Graeme Jackson

Paul StonemanWilf KieltyPaul Hogg

Charlotte Ferguson

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

20051957, 1975

199320052013

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

West Allotment Celtic v 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 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 Alex NisbetCM Michael LatimerCM Roy Gordon

CM Ian DunnCM Marc AllenCM David HendersonCM Michael BellCM Sean Reid

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

LM Dean LeeST David DormandST Lawrence McKennaST Liam HudsonST Jed Findlay

Marc DummettLB Age: 26

The former Ponteland United and Dunston full-back has proven to be an asset to the club in both defence and attack. His crossing ability in both regular play and from

set-pieces is second to none.

Roy GordonCM Age: 31

Roy rejoins Celtic for a second spell, having

last played for the club during the 2011/12

season. Able to play in a number of positions, the experienced utility man has also turned out for North Shields, Consett

and Annfield Plain.

David HendersonCM Age: 31

David Henderson rejoined the club last

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

most skilful players in the squad.

Sean ReidCM Age: 21Rangy, pacy and

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

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

attacking outlets.

Michael BellCM Age: 22

Brimming with potential, “Belly” won the

Under-19 National Schools Cup with

Northumberland and has also represented

Ryton. Bell is unbeatable in the air, and can also

operate on the wing and as a supporting striker.

Ian DunnCM Age: 31

Long-serving, tough tackling midfielder Dunn

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

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

deep in the heart of midfield.

Marc AllenCM Age: 26

Marc previously turned out for Whitley Bay Reserves, but has

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

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

midfield.

Michael LatimerCM Age: 26

Seasoned midfielder Michael returns to

Allotment, having spent time at Bedlington Terriers, Newcastle

Benfield and Washington. A tough tackler and a

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

West Allotment Celtic v 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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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 Northallerton Town10

26TH OCTOBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

IN front of a bumper groundhop crowd at

Whitley Park, West Allotment Celtic successfully shut out local promotion rivals North Shields, with both sides playing out a 0-0 stalemate.

The visitors who looked to have the edge in the final third, particularly in the opening stages, with efforts from Ben Richardson and John Parker flying wide and over respectively. Sean Reid’s tame attempt represented the hosts’ only response, but there remained little between the two, with Dunn and Henderson dropping deeper to counteract Shields’ dangerous attackers.

That said, the Robins should have taken the lead on twenty-

two minutes. An untimely slip from the otherwise superb Stoneman afforded Dean Holmes the chance to streak into the box unchallenged, but the winger was expertly denied by Ryan Beal. He had to be alert once more to get down at Bainbridge’s feet, whilst at the other end, three Shields defenders combined to scramble away Reid’s header from beneath their own bar. The visitors still posed the greater threat with the ball on the floor. Bainbridge was there again, bustling past Pendlebury and shooting into the side netting from a narrow angle, before Dan Smart’s appeals for a penalty following a trip fell on deaf ears, to the fury of the visiting contingent.

The best chance of the half

the last match

came towards its end. A long ball forward was misjudged by Little, the ball dropping directly into the path of the prolific forward, but the marksman pulled his shot wide of the relieved Beal’s goal.

The interval brought one change apiece, with the injured Beal coming off for Bob Rodgerson, Bainbridge made way for Dean Walker. The second half also brought about more purpose from the hosts, who could have seized the initiative when Michael Robinson missed a deep Chris Douglas cross, but the ball also managed to evade the unsuspecting David Dormand.At the other end, Smart should have put Shields ahead following a mix-up between Little and Rodgerson. The

West Allotment Celtic 0 North Shields 0

11the last match

...in picturesforward nipped in to round the ‘keeper, but his tap-in from an acute angle bobbled off the turf and rolled into the side netting.Allotment almost benefited soon after, but Stoneman’s goalbound header was expertly parried away by Robinson, who was there again to keep out another powerful header. The centre-half, the subject of earlier penalty appeals, could have been awarded one himself, following a push in the back within the area. Again, the referee waved away the appeals.

The game’s defining moment of controversy came in the eightieth minute. Shields struck the woodwork in the ensuing scramble, before the rebound was poked into the back of the net. However, the assistant had already raised his flag, as two Shields attackers were offside amidst the chaos.

With time fast running out, both sides missed a chance apiece to win the game outright. First, sub Lawrence McKenna could not get a touch on Stoneman’s header across the box, before Shields’ Walker got forward once more, stroking a tame first-time effort straight into the grateful hands of Rodgerson.

Both sides had every right to feel aggrieved to feel hard done when concerning the penalty appeals, but a draw ultimately reflected the closeness of both the game and the quality of the two sides.

with graeme jackson

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town12

the pre-match preview

DESPITE their latest selection crisis

showing little sign of abating within the next week, West Allotment Celtic will be seeking their second positive result against fellow promotion contenders in as many games.

An already depleted squad suffered a further setback midway through Saturday’s groundhop draw against North Shields, with Ryan Beal, having made three fine stops to keep the Robins at bay, succumbing to a hamstring injury.

YORKSHIRE outfit Northallerton Town

enjoyed (or endured) a season that ran in parallel lines to that of West Allotment last year.

Town also finished their 2012/13 campaign strongly after a mixed start, wound up on 77 points - finishing ahead of Allotment by nine goals - and reached the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup final.

The two teams seem to be twinned once more, with the clubs currently occupying second and fourth place respectively. Peter

With Chris Bannon also ruled out, Bob Rodgerson will make his second start of the season between the sticks.

Elsewhere, Tony Lancaster continues his long-awaited recovery, but will remain sidelined for the foreseeable future. Marc Allen, Michael Bell and Glenn Ford also remains out, but left-sided pairing Marc Dummett and Dean Lee are added to the squad, along with young winger Connor Graham.

In more positive news, Alex Nisbet is available for

Mulcaster’s side currently have the upper hand, four points clear of Allotment - but having played an extra five matches. The league table may be a little misleading at present, as Northallerton have, much like Allotment, dropped points of their own, with narrow defeats against Alnwick and Heaton Stan, and drawn games against South Shields and Stokesley, possibly denting their long-term aspirations. That said, Town have also battled to some impressive results - a 2-2 draw away at favourites North Shields and a 3-2 home win against a strong Birtley side undoubtedly

boosting the morale at Calvert Stadium.

Despite having to do without long-term casualty Adam Emson and veterans Carl Chillingsworth and Jamie Clarke to Richmond Town and Seaham Red Star respectively, ‘Allerton have still topped the league’s scoring charts, with Colin Anderson ably supported by experienced players and Academy products alike.

Allotment should leapfrog Town when the fixtures even out - but the visitors could briefly keep them at bay with a positive result tonight.

selection, having served his one-game suspension, whilst Spanish midfield duo Bernat Roca and Bartomeu Oliver-Berga could feature, with the latter making his debut from the bench at the weekend. Having started the game alongside the pair in the dugout, the likes of Roy Gordon and Lawrence McKenna could be in line for starts.

After a positive draw and clean sheet against Shields, Allotment will be keen on adding to that point against another much-fancied outfit in Northallerton.

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the preview 13

statattack

49

66The 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

11No. of points Town have picked up onthe road

24-year-old ‘keeper Ryan Beal had been enjoying an unopposed run in the first team following Chris Bannon’s injury, but theSuffolk stopper has beenplaying on a nigglinghamstring injury since the Birtley Town game over a fortnight ago. Hereturned to faceformer club North Shields onSaturday, but lasted justforty-five minutes.

league meetings

P W D L F A 6 1 1 4 12 19 6 6 0 0 13 2 12 7 1 4 25 21

25-year-old poacher Colin Anderson technically leads the club’s scoring charts with eight league goals, tied with Seaham-bound veteran Jamie Clarke. Alongside another experienced NL player in Darren Kokes, Anderson will be looking to fire Town out of Division Two.

northallerton town

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town14

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 15

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 16

Following on from their thrilling 4 – 3 comeback victory over Darlington R.A. in the semi-final, Allotment served up another exhilarating encounter against their North Yorkshire counterparts at the Glamal Stadium in Billingham, overcoming Northallerton Town 3-1 in an action-packed finale.

The often tense and always entertaining tie bore witness to a stonewall penalty, a dubious dismissal and, finally, a stunning winner from Celtic’s David Dormand to bring the trophy back to North Tyneside.

Allotment were without stalwart captain Ian Dunn for the occasion, and were soon to lose a second key member of the side, with dangerous winger Dean Lee expectedly failing a fitness test prior to kick-off. Stephen Little and Liam Hudson were both deemed fit enough to play, with the former taking his place in defence alongside player-manager Paul Stoneman, whilst the latter had to settle for a place on the bench.

The Tynesiders looked the busier of the two sides in the opening exchanges, attacking with intent down both flanks and causing Town problems at the back. A combination of Marcus Laing’s boot and

‘keeper James Briggs’ hands kept out Reid from point blank range, and only centre-half Craig Winter’s outstretched leg denied Stephen Little the game’s opening goal.

Midfield maestro Reid once again came close to breaking the deadlock after 17 minutes, directing his powerful header onto the top of the crossbar. Little bravely attempted to nod the rebound across the line from close range, taking a boot to the face in the process.

After the frenetic early period, chances soon became limited, though Allotment continued to have the upper hand. Northallerton rarely troubled

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

name on the trophy

THE ERNEST ARMSTRONG MEMORIAL CUP FINAL BETWEEN NORTHALLERTON TOWN AND WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC, CONTESTED AT THE GLAMAL ENGINEERING STADIUM IN MAY

(sort of)THE REPORT FROM A THRILLING CUP FINAL CONTESTED BETWEEN TONIGHT’S TWO SIDES

the cup final 17

Ryan Beal’s goal, with their greatest threats coming in the air. Their first chance of the match fell to Nathan Porritt, who failed to head Stephen Anderson’s deftly chipped cross on target. The Yorkshire outfit were dealt a serious blow to their chances when top scorer Adam Emson limped off, to be replaced by the returning Michael Dunwell.

With the half drawing to a close, Stoneman’s charges continued to search for the opener, and almost got it minutes before the interval. Dormand was always stretching to get on the end of Michael Bell’s tantalising whipped ball from the right, ultimately prodding wide and high at pace.

Celtic came out with similar attacking intent in the second half, and deputising wide man Chris Douglas looked odds on to score, only for the onrushing Briggs to make

THE ERNEST ARMSTRONG MEMORIAL CUP FINAL BETWEEN NORTHALLERTON TOWN AND WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC, CONTESTED AT THE GLAMAL ENGINEERING STADIUM IN MAY

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town 18

a fantastic low stop at his feet. Only one team looked like scoring, and Allotment deservedly went ahead from the penalty spot after 50 minutes. Reid was barged over from behind, the victim of a clumsy challenge in the area, and he duly despatched the resulting penalty, powering the ball beyond Briggs.

Without Emson in attack, Northallerton looked short of options going forward, and replacement forward Dunwell fired well wide from a good position on the edge of the area. Down the other end, another teasing Bell cross flashed across the box, just evading Douglas when it mattered.

The leaders looked comfortable, but one of Town’s towering defenders headed Northallerton level against the run of play. Little conceded a free kick thirty-five yards out, affording Gavin Parkin the opportunity to put the ball into the box. His lofted set-piece was met by full-back

James Bowman, whose looping header soared over Beal and into the top corner.

Roared on by their vocal home support, Northallerton finally came into the game, penning Allotment back into their own half for the first time in the afternoon. An acrobatic attempt from veteran forward Carl Chillingsworth was speculative but nonetheless worthwhile, as his overhead kick flew over the crossbar.Just as the Yorkshiremen were pushing for a second, Allotment retook the lead from a set-piece of their own. Dummett’s corner made its way to Dormand at the near post, who headed Celtic back in front from inside the six yard box.

The top-scoring striker could have doubled his tally minutes later, racing through on goal, only to be denied by another fine low stop from the excellent Briggs. Just as Allotment looked to have reasserted their dominance, another twist in the tale threatened to change the

the cup final 19

complexion of the game in Northallerton’s favour. Little was dubiously adjudged to have fouled Chillingsworth on the edge of the area, despite seeming to make contact with the ball, and was handed his second yellow card of the afternoon with fifteen minutes left to play.

Substitute Dunwell fired the resulting free-kick just over the crossbar – and it proved to be Northallerton’s final chance of the match. A fresh introduction from the opposite bench proved to be the clincher, as Kallum McGlen broke forward, before releasing Dormand in on goal with a deft through ball. The former Morpeth hitman kept his composure to slam the ball past Briggs, putting Celtic’s jangling nerves at ease.

Allotment pulled out one of their most combative performances of the season when it mattered, with Bell and fellow midfielder David Henderson battling heroically

for their side, particularly once they were reduced to ten men. Celtic will savour the cup victory, collecting their first silverware since winning the Northern League Division Two title in 2004, and will undoubtedly look to build on their success this season.

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

THERE is nothing quite so stressful, laborious,

tiring and madcap as a groundhop weekend - as most our committee and their better halves will undoubtedly testify. West Allotment’s promotion six-pointer against North Shields was the showcase, taking pride of place as the second venue in the hopper’s itinerary. All four games were staged across North Tyneside, but those taking place at Heaton, Team North and Benfield did not harbour the same local and fiercely competitive rivalry as the early afternoon kick-off. As the visitors descended upon Whitley Park in their droves, all involved at Celtic did their best to sell the club to the eager hoppers. Judging by the queue at the canteen hatch, the masses were just as hungry to sample the cuisine as they were to gobble up the array of merch on offer. The game itself was no less mouthwatering. The unitiated from far-flung corners of the country may not have fully comprehended the significance of the game, but the partisan fans certainly did. The two teams were separated by just one point prior to kick-off,

both setting their sights firmly on ascension to Division One. The dangerous Shields strikeforce that had scored so many on the road looked to threaten early on, to the delight of their vocal supporters. Holmes and Bainbridge both spurned chances, whilst fellow forward Dan Smart saw appeals waved away for a penalty - and he may have had a case. Allotment could have had one of their own, missed by most in a set-piece melee, but captured by Graeme Jackson’s trusty camera. Reid was manhandled on the Robins’ line - it’s there in full colour, never mind black and white - but it went unsighted, and the half finished goalless. The visitors shaded the first half, but Celtic were the stronger of the two sides in the second. The clash in playing styles became more pointed; Shields continued to try and play football from the back, keeping the ball grounded for the most part, whilst Allotment went more direct - and it almost paid off, with a dropped Robinson catch and two powerful Stoneman headers all constituting good chances. Only a bobble in the regularly pristine Whitley Park pitch denied Smart a tap-in,

Stoneman had a penalty appeal of his own rejected, and Shields had a goal rightly disallowed for offside, having struck the post.Ultimately, the draw was fair, the result positive. Shields whined about the injustices of the referee, focusing on two “appalling decisions” - one of which was correct - and conveniently neglecting two judgment calls that went against their opponents. Of course, the two teams also played another 89 minutes of football, and shared a dozen chances between them - with Shields guiltier of profligacy than their hosts. But the officials are always a convenient target. No goals (and, midway through, no pies), but plenty of controversy and commitment was on show from both sides. Off the pitch, the club pulled out all the stops for the wandering aficionados. The atmosphere was incredible, as it is for every game against the Robins. Some expressed their disappointment at the 0-0, but it’s hard to imagine how any of the hoppers could feel such a way; true football fans should have appreciated what was on offer and what was at stake, on and off the pitch. Thankfully, the majority did.

goal of the weekStoneman’s first header would have qualified, had Robinson not tipped it superbly over. As such, it

man of the weekIan Dunn shades it just ahead of the centre-halves after another all-action performance in the middle served to nullify Shields’ attacks.

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town on this day22

Blyth Spartans travelled to meet Allotment in the NFA Senior Cup for the third successive season and the home side were

just six minutes from claiming a hat-trick of victories over their senior rivals before a very late double of fluky goals

turned the scoreline around. In a howling gale, Allotment took the lead midway through the first half when Michael Chilton fired home following a free-kick just outside the box. Scott

Bell constantly embarrassed the visiting defence with his pace and trickery but squandered three golden opportunities to

settle the tie before Spartans hit back. The reversal of fortunes began in the 84th minute when Emerson tried to whip in a

cross but the ball caught the wind and floated over the head of Ian Archbold. If that goal was fortuitous, it was trumped in the dying moments when Emerson got in another cross that

smacked off Peter Anderson and into the net for an own goal. There was still time for Dave Malone to be issued with a red card for a non-existent assault on a Blyth player and tempers

remained fraught long after the full-time whistle sounded.

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

A crucial game at Backworth Welfare as Celtic entertained Morpeth Town. The game started off in the worst possible fashion for the home side as John Moscrop headed Morpeth into the lead in just the second minute. To their credit, Celtic did not buckle and more than matched the league pacesetters as the match developed. No-one could argue that the home side did not fully deserve the equaliser scored by John Fitzpatrick before the half-time break. The ever-reliable Moscrop undid all Celtic’s hard work by tapping home an easy goal early in the second period. However, once again, Allotment strived to find a leveller and, in the 71st minute, the efforts came to fruition when Mark Morgan struck a magnificent volley past Hale in the Morpeth goal. Both sides worked hard to find the winner but, right on full-time, it was that man Moscrop who was in the right spot at the back post to convert a right-wing cross and complete his hat-trick. Morpeth went on to win the Alliance title and move up to the Northern League.

1993

2002

on this day...

the interview 23

Kallum McGlena brief chat with...

his first Celtic goal

Aye, it took a while! It was good to score - I was over the moon, actually, especially for the committee’s sake, as they’ve been giving me grief all the time! But it was a good game, I enjoyed the game. At first, I actually thought it was going to hit the post, but luckily it just crept in the corner! There’s more to come, definitely more to come there.

his recent form

Aye, I’m happy, but I don’t think I’m fully fit yet, lack of matches, really. I’m just starting to get fully fit, and starting matches is helpful. I do a lot of running on a Sunday, but the standard’s not as good as this. You get used to playing in a slower league.

the selection crises

That might be the only reason

I’m in! I’m over the moon, and I’ve just got to take my chance, really; when people do come back, stop them getting in the team. As I say, I’ve got to be consistent, and hopefully I can start to be a little more consistent.

the Shields draw

Obviously they’re a good team, everybody knows they’re a good team. They’re favourites to win the league. Maybe a draw was a fair result, but I still think we could’ve nicked it towards the end. It was definitely one of the harder games we’ve played, but I still think we could’ve come away with the three points.

on today’s game

I think we’ll definitely beat Northallerton, I’m positive we’ll beat them. Big lads, strong lads, but football-wise, I think we’ll tear them apart!

on home form

We’ve already got a good home record, but I still fancy it to get better and better. I think we’ll definitely improve on it.

the current aims

Personally, I think we’ll get promoted. 100%. I fancy first place, but if not, I’m quite positive we’ll finish second, definitely third. I’m pleased with the team, and I think we’ve got enough to do it.

Allotment hot prospect Kallum McGlen did everything but get on the scoresheet in his debut campaign. The

winger broke his goalscoring duck with the winner against Birtley Town - and has promised bigger and better things from both himself and the club.

Tow Law Town

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name

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

99

1 (1)

14 (1)12 (1)15 (2)1 (1)159

2 (3)102

4 (5)

17 (1)9 (2)5 (5)16 (1)

00 (1)6 (6)11 (1)0 (2)12

1 (2)

11 (3)12 (4)7 (7)

yel

200

1211110000

30020001010

100

red

000

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01000000000

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0130311001

03020021000

702

player statisticstop scorers

the playmakers

the mainstays

the bad boys

average starting XIBeal

StonemanFordPendlebury Douglas

Dormand

Hudson

Dunn Henderson

Reid

Sean Reid - 9Ian Dunn - 6

David Dormand - 6

Liam Hudson - 7Michael Bell - 3

Chris Douglas - 3

Ian Dunn - 17Sean Reid - 16

Paul Stoneman - 15

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

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town the player statistics24

Lee

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000

1110110000

62190010030

563

fixtures, results, table 25

AUGUST 10th

14th

17th

21st

24th

30th

SEPTEMBER 4th

7th

11th

14th

18th

21st

28th

OCTOBER 5th

9th

12th

16th

19th

26th

30th

NOVEMBER1st

5th

8th

12th

16th

23rd

27th

30th

DECEMBER6th

14th

21st

28th

JANUARY4th

10th

18th

31st

FEBRUARY8th

15th

22nd

MARCH1st

8th

15th

22nd

28th

APRIL5th

12th

18th

26th

TBD

NL D2NL D2FA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2FA VaseNL D2NL D2Lg CupFA VaseNL D2

NL D2NFA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2EA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2Lg CupNL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL 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 0-0

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

Heaton StanNorthallertonNorth ShieldsWACSeahamDarlo RANort & StockBirtleyTow LawJarrowWhickhamCh-le-StreetWillingtonStokesleySouth ShieldsBrandonWhitehavenThornabyAlnwickWashingtonEsh WinningRyton

12345678910111213141516171819202122

17191414161718151812171516191419151715161617

121099987888766655544432

1443147332344452242112

451265447275694

12899

111213

1421391518106

128

2240-4

-12-4

-16-16-9

-16-28-38-26

3734313028282827272624222222201717161413108

team pl w d l gd pts

nl div 2 table

OFFICIAL NORTHERNLEAGUE SPONSORS

rottweiler’s notes

West Allotment Celtic v Northallerton Town rottweiler’s notes26

Take Morgan to school then off we go shopping. Fortunately, we only go to Sainsbury’s today. Spend rest of the day at home. In the evening, an appointment arrives which will really please Barbara. Match assessor Middlesbrough U21 v Liverpool U21 for 4th November.

Nice quiet day, Barbara off to Newcastle by herself and I have nothing on. In the evening, attend weekly committee meeting.

Early morning call informing me that Benfield v Penrith is off tonight (match assessor), which leaves me free to go to Willington. In the afternoon, attend NFA Development Committee meeting and I am extremely concerned with what is happening - a very distinct lack of information coming out of the Development Department. Well, we all now know what happened at Willington. Floodlight failure with game rearranged for Tuesday 5th November. There could be some fireworks. It was particularly disappointing for Tom and Bern (two Spanish lads) who were making their debuts tonight, stripped and raring to go. The team warms up twice before referee finally calls game off at 20.05.

Drop Barbara off at work then off, to fish quay for fish and chips and spend a little time watching boats arriving. In the evening, NFA Board & Council meetings, and there are without any doubt worrying times ahead.

Chair NFA Referees Committee meeting and it could be like starting World War Three with the many changes we are going to introduce for referees from 1st March 2014. Mind you, I believe all the changes are positive. In the evening, meet with the bugger (Mike Amos) and Harvey Harris for final briefing for tomorrow’s ground hop.

My thanks go to everyone, officials, wives, partners, Craig’s dad, players for making today a huge success. Saw very little of the game, though we will be able to relax and watch the game when we go to North Shields on Good Friday, which incidentally is part of the Easter Ground Hop weekend. Good point today, though I was a little disappointed we didn’t get all three. Can’t ever recall both teams’ goalkeepers having to be substituted through injury before. “El Clasico”, what a big let down, how on earth did Sky not show the first 15 mins of the game - and in all honesty wasn’t a good game.

Thanks to bloodhound, Joanne has a ticket for the derby game, Barbara at work all day so granddad left to look after Morgan all day. Anyway, we spend the day at Whitehouse Farm and when we return home Morgan writes me a lovely letter thanking me for a wonderful day. Not yet six and she nearly has me in tears for such a lovely letter. One that I will treasure forever.

Committee

meeting

8pmRingtheBloodhound!

21st

Oct

22nd

Oct

23rd

Oct

24th

Oct

25th

Oct

26th

Oct

27th

Oct

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WADE FINANCIAL

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

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