allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

THOMASPOTTER

iandunn

The long-serving club

captain on his future

Club Sponsor

FA VASE FIRST ROUND QUALIFYING SATURDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2013

stokesley

THOMASPOTTER

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

MAIN SPONSORS OF WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC

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

Tel: 01670 591 100www.thomaspotter.com

contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the last meeting

the preview

the visitors

the manager

the interview

the feature

on this day

the onion bag

the player statistics

fixtures, results, table

rottweiler’s notes

4

6

9

10

12

14

16

18

19

20

22

23

24

25

26

welcome19

16 14

12

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

Tel: 01670 591 100www.thomaspotter.com

Club OfficialsPresidentChairmanVice-ChairmanSecretaryTreasurerCommercial

Committee

Press Officer

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 LiddleMichael Wilson

Les ScottKath Orr

Harry BellStephen AllottRichie Marks

Craig Dobson

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 Stokesley Sports Club4

...and the decade of declineThe sixties started promisingly enough, as Allotment looked to build on their previous successes. The club finished as runners-up in the Northern Amateur League in 1960, and were consecutive Minor Cup finalists in 1960 and 1961.

However, whilst Celtic remained loyal to the Northern Amateur League, the bulk of the team moved on, and Allotment entered a period of decline as a result. The club stagnated badly during the sixties in an uncompetitive league, and closure become a distinctly worrying possibility.

The threat of dissolution was eventually staved off by the introduction of new blood into the club towards the end of the decade, as Allotment finally began to build towards a more positive future on and off the pitch. Celtic also moved to Backworth Welfare in 1968, consigning the ponds and mud of the Farm Ground to memory.

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

from creation to contendersWest Allotment Celtic were formed in 1928, the culmination of a merger between West Allotment Primitive Methodists and West Allotment Juniors. After moving to the newly-created Tynemouth & District League in 1935, the club began to grow in stature. The club had to face Whitley Bay & Monkseaton Reserves in a play-off for the title, but unfortunately, the decider went the way of the seasiders. Remarkably, Allotment also finished in a play-off position in the following two seasons – and, in both cases, had to settle for a runner-up spot.

changing leagues, shedsand timesIn 1938, the club joined the Second Division of the Northern Amateur League. Now playing at the aptly-named Farm Ground, fans helped to dismantle a cowshed in Heaton and move it, piece by piece, to West Allotment, where it was reassembled at the ground. The shed was not for spectators – it served as the players’ changing facilities! The club earned instant promotion (after a play-off, such is club tradition), but World War II put a stop to any further progress.

a succession of successes...The club recommenced operations in 1946/47 and enjoyed an unprecedented run of success from the mid-fifties onwards. Allotment won the championship for four consecutive seasons between 1956 and 1960, along with the NFA Amateur Cup in 1957 and the NFA Minor Cup in 1958.

the history

eighty-five years in the makingwho averaged almost one goal a game in his 400 appearances for the club. Williams was ably supported by a talented and hungry squad, and, with strength in depth, Allotment were always considered title contenders. However, the championship remained tantalisingly out of reach until yet another play-off tie in 1982. Allotment finally won the coveted title, defeating Annitsford Welfare by the odd goal in seven.

When Celtic retained the title with relative ease the following season, the decision was taken to move up a tier for the first time since 1938.

the colossus of the allianceIn 1983, Allotment made its debut in both the Northern Alliance and the FA Vase. The first honour of the period arrived just one season later, as Allotment dispatched Ponteland United in the Alliance Challenge Cup Final. This success was followed up two seasons later by the first of Celtic’s eight Alliance titles.

In 1987, West Allotment emerged victorious from two nail-biting play-off games against Gosforth St. Nicholas, ushering in a wave of success not enjoyed at the club since the fifties. Throughout this period, Celtic won seven further Northern

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

Alliance titles, never finishing lower than sixth. Terry Mitchell and Brian Latty built upon Ken Scott and Billy Hays’ consecutive Alliance league titles, leading Allotment into the Northern League.

the modern dayHaving acted as tenants at Hillheads in Whitley Bay since 1995, the club set out to find a new home, and found it in Benton. In 2001, the club moved to Whitley Park, also known as the Blue Flames Sports Ground. The ground is well-known as one of the best kept pitches in the Northern League, and also serves as the headquarters of the Northumberland FA.

The club earned promotion from Division Two as champions, losing just twice throughout the entire 2004/05 season. After six seasons of holding their own against the Northern League’s top tier, Allotment slipped back down a league. The current crop have gone some way to restoring success at Allotment, winning the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup last May, and will be aiming for those promotion places this season.

5

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club6

the squad

CB Simon WilthewCB Glenn FordCB Stephen LittleCB Paul StonemanRB John Pendlebury

GK Chris BannonGK Ryan BealGK Bob Rodgerson

Chris BannonGK Age: 26

Formerly of Washington and Hebburn Town, popular and reliable

‘keeper Chris returns to Allotment for a second stint between the sticks, and will jostle with Ryan Beal for the number one

jersey.

Ryan BealGK Age: 25

An excellent shot stopper, Ryan featured

extensively in last season’s cup-winning

campaign, and will look to consolidate his place

with similarly strong performances this

season.

Stephen LittleCB Age: 26

The ex-Annfield Plain and Killingworth stopper

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

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

Glenn FordCB Age: 29

Glenn rejoined the club during the 2012/13

season, making a handful of solid appearances. Having committed for

this coming season, fans can expect to see much more of Glenn and his

defensive abilities.

Simon WilthewCB Age: 25

Simon featured 15 times at the back for Allotment

last season. Strong at centre-half and adept at

left-back, the Monkseaton defender will be looking

to build on his impressive debut in the Northern

League.

John PendleburyRB Age: 27

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

John’s relentless work ethic and tenacious

tackling bring stability to the back four. The

full-back often serves as captain in the absence of

Ian Dunn.

Chris DouglasRB Age: 29

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

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

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

midfielder.

Bob RodgersonGK Age: 31

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

has registered once again to be our third choice

‘keeper.

the squad 7

RB Chris DouglasLB Marc DummettCM Michael LatimerCM Roy GordonCM Ian Dunn

CM Marc AllenCM David HendersonCM Michael BellCM Sean ReidRM Kallum McGlen

RM Tony LancasterLM Dean LeeST David DormandST Lawrence McKennaST Liam Hudson

ST Jed FindlayST Ryan Anderson

Marc DummettLB Age: 26

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

set-pieces is second to none.

Roy GordonCM Age: 31

Roy rejoins Celtic for a second spell, having

last played for the club during the 2011/12

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

and Annfield Plain.

David HendersonCM Age: 28

David Henderson rejoined the club last

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

most skilful players in the squad.

Sean ReidCM Age: 21Rangy, pacy and

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

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

attacking outlets.

Michael BellCM Age: 22

Brimming with potential, “Belly” won the

Under-19 National Schools Cup with

Northumberland and has also represented

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

operate on the wing and as a supporting striker.

Ian DunnCM Age: 31

Long-serving, tough tackling midfielder Dunn

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

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

deep in the heart of midfield.

Marc AllenCM Age: 26

Marc previously turned out for Whitley Bay Reserves, but has

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

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

midfield.

Michael LatimerCM Age: 26

Seasoned midfielder Michael returns to

Allotment, having spent time at Bedlington Terriers, Newcastle

Benfield and Washington. A tough tackler and a

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

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club the squad8

the squad

Tony LancasterRM Age: 28

Signed from Wark in March 2011. Tony

struggled with injuries last term, but will hope to be back to his pacy, dangerous best this

season. Tony can also operate as a wholly

competent right-back.

Dean LeeLM Age: 30

A winger with the scoring nous of a striker,

the former North Shields man has all of the tools required to strike fear into the

hearts of defenders. One of Celtic’s most prolific threats going forward.

David DormandST Age: 25David’s prolific

record precedes him, and the former

Morpeth forward has already replicated his goalscoring form since joining Celtic, topping

the charts with 30 goals. A clinical poacher and a hard worker up front.

Liam HudsonST Age: 25

Another former Ryton forward, army soldier

Liam is capable of pressuring his opposite

numbers into submission with his strength and high

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

right wing.

Jed FindlayST Age: 24

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

campaign.

Lawrence McKennaST Age: 25

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

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

division.

Ryan AndersonST Age: 18

A promising young striker, Ryan was

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

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

Kallum McGlenRM Age: 21

A former Montagu & North Fenham favourite,

Kallum features on the right hand side

of midfield, where his energy and technique often causes problems for opposing full-backs.

the backroom staff 9

the backroom staff

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRUCTION

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

Proud sponsors of West Allotment player-manager

Paul Stoneman

Paul StonemanPlayer/Manager

The stalwart centre-half has played for Blackpool, Colchester United and Halifax Town. Despite

turning 40 last year, ‘Stona’ was ever-present

last season, remaining unbeatable in the air and impervious in the tackle.

Wilf KieltyAssistant ManagerRight-hand man Wilf has been around the

local non-league scene for many years, both as a player and in a

management role, giving notable service to North

Shields as manager for several seasons.

Paul HoggFirst Team CoachThe UEFA-licensed

coach is held in very high regard at North Shields, having played, coached and managed there for over a decade. Paul has also managed Annfield

Plain, and is working with the Newcastle United

Foundation.

Charlotte FergusonPhysiotherapist

Charlotte is in her final year of her Physiotherapy studies at Northumbria

University, and is currently on her final

placement at the RVI. She is also a qualified sports

masseur.

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club the last match10

4TH SEPTEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

A GOAL in the dying moments from Sean

Reid snatched a last-gasp victory for Celtic, as they overcame fellow promotion hopefuls Seaham Red Star by two goals to one.

The game’s first real action saw ‘keeper Ryan Beal challenging veteran forward Adam Johnston from behind in the box, but the referee wasn’t interested in the protests.

The early threat posed by the visitors was snuffed out almost instantly by Allotment’s dogged pressure on the ball, but the hosts could not test Shaun Newbrook in the Seaham goal for the first thirty minutes, with Dean Lee’s shot charged down by the defender, and well-struck volleys from Henderson

and Dormand flying wide of goal.

Inevitably, the better side did take the lead just after the half-hour mark. Newbrook did well to parry an initial effort, but only into the path of Dormand, who was presented with the simplest of tap-ins. Both Lee and Dummett fired further chances over the bar, whilst a Johnston set-piece skidded just past the post for Seaham, but Celtic ultimately entered the break with a well-deserved one goal advantage.

Stoneman’s charges continued to dominate when the second half recommenced. Centre-half Glenn Ford saw an effort hacked away from the line following a corner, whilst Reid went close with a curling

the last match

free-kick, with Newbrook well beaten. The best chance fell to Chris Douglas, but his venomous strike was expertly palmed away by the ‘keeper.

Seaham looked to have snatched an unlikely point with their first real chance on goal, as Johnston turned home a set-piece to pull the away side level. They almost stole all three points, but Beal was quick off his line to deny sub Channon North with a point-blank reflex save.

Instead, another fresh face determined the victors of the early promotion six-pointer. The newly-introduced Liam Hudson put an enticing ball in behind the defenders, and Reid stooped to head home a last-minute winner.

West Allotment Celtic 2 Seaham Red Star 1

today’s ball sponsor

thank you for your support

RolandMather

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

Name: Contact number:

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

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

the letter draw3rd September 201316 winners of £50 eachM I S

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club12

24TH AUGUST 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

Despite a mediocre performance, West

Allotment Celtic made it three wins in four, scoring two late goals to overcome Stokesley at a rain-soaked Whitley Park.

Though they dominating in the possession stakes, Paul Stoneman’s side failed to test SSC ‘keeper Thomas Laverick in the first thirty minutes, with Dean Lee’s blocked effort and a harmlessly wide shot from Marc Allen constituting Allotment’s only real attempts on goal.

Instead, Stokesley were presented with the first genuine opening of the match. Gerard Richardson believed he was unlawfully knocked to the floor in the box, but sloppy play

moments later gifted Andrew Lambert a clear sight of goal, only for the attacker to sky the opportunity.

When the visitors did get an effort on target, Ryan Beal was there to keep the scores level. A skidding long-range effort from Matthew Robinson looked destined for the bottom corner, only for Beal to tip the fast-travelling ball past the far post.

Chances were at a premium, largely down to a distinct lack of creativity on both sides, but it was Allotment who seized the initiative, courtesy of David Dormand. The forward rose unmarked to meet Liam Hudson’s high cross from the right, directing his looped header into the top corner.

the last meeting

The home side could have been pulled back before the interval, as Dunn played the ball straight to Richardson just outside the box, but made amends with a fantastic last-ditch tackle.

Allotment were fortunate to be ahead at the break, but the lead did not last long upon their return for the second half. A ricocheted Glenn Ford clearance broke kindly for Richardson, who placed his pinpoint strike into the bottom corner.

It soon went from bad to worse for Allotment. Right-back Daniel Jones went unnoticed in the penalty area, heading home a looping cross to complete a quickfire turnaround in the visitors’ favour.

West Allotment Celtic 3 Stokesley 2

the last meeting 13

24TH AUGUST 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

...in picturesStunned into action, Celtic almost pegged their plucky opponents back immediately. After the referee ignored calls for a penalty in the hosts’ favour, Glenn Ford was presented with an unlikely yard of space on the edge of the box, but his curling shot evaded Laverick’s far post by the tightest of margins. Liam Hudson had another penalty appeal turned down - this time for the use of a hand to block his goalbound shot - but an equaliser looked increasingly unlikely.

Any chance of getting back into the match would likely come from a set-piece - and so it proved ten minutes from time. Ian Dunn nipped ahead of Laverick to get a vital touch to Michael Bell’s knockdown from a corner, and the covering defender could not prevent the ball from crossing the line.

Having underperformed in an attacking capacity for much of the match, Celtic pressed for all three points, but any renewed hope of a win seemed to dissipate when Hudson skewed a good chance wide. Stokesley were understandably content to slow the pace, but their gameplan was undone by a foul thirty yards from goal. Up stepped left-back Marc Dummett, who curled a spectacular free-kick around the wall and into the opposite top corner, sparking an impassioned pile-on next to the dugout.

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club14

the pre-match preview

WHITLEY Park is fast becoming an

impenetrable fortress, as West Allotment Celtic have racked up three home wins on the bounce - and four consecutive wins overall.

The first of the trio of victories was, arguably, the least deserved, coming against today’s opponents. Allotment have a penchant for late goals, and another timely finish, this time from Sean Reid, afforded Celtic all three points against a previously rampant Seaham Red Star.

WHAT has changed in the fourteen

days since Stokesley Sports Club last visited Whitley Park?

Since losing 3-2 at the death against Allotment a fortnight ago, the Yorkshire outfit have gone on an impressive three-match unbeaten run, picking up seven points from a possible nine.

The revival kicked off just two days after the last-gasp loss at Whitley Park, leaving the players little time to dwell on the disappointment of the defeat, as Monty

Midfield maestro David Henderson made his long-awaited season’s debut, lasting one hour before being substituted, and may be deployed in some capacity again today as he approaches match fitness. Likewise, Stephen Little may once again warm up with the side, edging closer to contention with every passing game.

Michael Latimer and Michael Bell could return from a virus and work commitments respectively. The availability of the duo could give player-manager Paul Stoneman a selection

Alexander’s men played host to Thornaby. In a repeat of the opening day, it was lively midfielder Connor Hood and star man Gary Redman who got amongst the goals in a comfortable 3-1 win, with the former helping himself to a brace.

The next game, a trip to surprise package Heaton Stan, would prove to be a far trickier affair. Matthew Robinson and Nathan Graham both saw efforts rattle the woodwork, before new boy Reece Kelly scored what proved to be the game’s only goal just after

the hour mark. Resolute defending sealed a narrow win for the visiting side.

Recent signing Kelly has certainly made an impression, scoring twice in Stokesley’s 2-2 draw at Northallerton, where only a last-minute equaliser denied SSC a thoroughly deserved win.

This Stokesley side is, according to Mike Amos, the best team that “I or anyone else can remember”. Celtic know it all too well, and will be eager to avoid a nerve-jangling repeat of two Saturdays ago.

headache, with all three of Celtic’s midfield men impressing on Wednesday night. Captain Ian Dunn will expect to regain his place in the heart of that midfield, whilst Liam Hudson could be in line to start on the right ahead of Chris Douglas.

With the squad now approaching its strongest form in terms of availability and performance, Stoneman could once again opt to shuffle the pack, with wingerTony Lancaster and forward Jed Findlay the only long-term absentees.

WES

T A

LLO

TMEN

T C

ELTIC

form

: LW

WW

WST

OKE

SLEY

SPO

RTS

CLU

Bfo

rm: D

LWW

D

the preview 15

statattack

10

65The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park

The number of goals scored by SSC midfieldersthus far

The number of points separating the sides last season

33

2Number of goals Liam Hudson scored against SSC last year

Double act David Dormand and Liam Hudson have both started the season in fine form, with the former bagging three goals in the last three games, and the latter providing two key assists fromhis newly-accustomed role onthe right flank. With Liam likelyto be returning to theline-up, expect the two attackers to combineonce again today.

Centre-half Lloyd Evans and his back four held out for much of the second half against an often profligate Celtic side a fortnight ago. Two of Allotment’s three goals came from set-pieces - something SSC will have to be wary of this afternoon.

previous meetings

P W D L F A 3 3 0 0 9 4 2 1 0 1 3 2 4 3 0 1 12 6

stokesley sports club

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club16

Since being established in 1920, Stokesley has had various teams

playing in local football leagues. These were the Stokesley & District League, Langbaurgh League and the South Bank & District League.

During that time, they played on a number of pitches around the town. The Bypass, Springfield and sharing with the original cricket team before being evicted in 1963 when the pitch was sacrificed to make way for the new town bypass. The club continued to move for another twenty-nine years, before eventually settling back at the Sports Club (the expanded Cricket Club).

Stokesley have won many cups over the years, with most success coming in the Jefferson Cup (fourteen wins), a local cup played at the start and end of the season depending on the weather in the winter period. In seasons 1977, 1978 and 1979, Stokesley won the Second division of the South Bank & District League. Next season, they were crowned champions on the First Division, and also won the Barnard Bowl.

The club has run two teams for many years

and, in the season of 1994, Stokesley’s first team entered the Teesside League. As the club grew and an increasing number of people showed interest in playing football, a Sunday team was formed. This team entered the Hambleton Combination, where they won promotion in three consecutive years from the Fourth to the First Division. They also won four cup competitions in that time.

In season 1999-2000, Stokesley added a third Saturday team by joining the Wearside League. This latest period has been Stokesley’s most successful, as they competed in no fewer than twelve cup finals, and ultimately won seven of them.

In 2004, Stokesley Sports Club and the North Riding Football Association won a lottery grant for £894,000 to build a new clubhouse, develop pitches and improve the main pitch to meet Northern League standards. The prize was winning promotion to Division Two in 2006 and achieving a five-year plan.

In their first season in the Northern League, they achieved a creditable eighth position and reached the semi-final in the Ernest Armstrong Trophy. The club made steady progress, becoming Division Two champions in season 2009/10, as well as reaching the final of the North Riding Senior Cup. During the 2010/11 campaign, their first in Division One, they changed their name to Stokesley FC, and finished in sixteenth position.

The club reverted back to their old name of Stokesley Sports Club, but suffered relegation back to Division Two in 2012, and will be hoping to re-establish themselves in the coming years.

the history

the visitors 17

Thomas LaverickGoalkeeper Laverick became Stokesley’s first-choice stopper in February, appearing 17 times for SSC last season, but faces stiff competition from former Billingham Town man Ryan Hodgson.

Daniel JonesUp-and-coming utility man Jones is entering his third season with the North Yorkshire club, and has started brightly - earning two man-of-the-match awards in his first three games.

Matthew RobinsonAt the tender age of 20, left-back Matthew has made the position his own since joining the club in 2011. The highly rated defender appeared twenty times last season for the club, and has started all four games so far this season.

Martin McManusThe former Hartlepool United junior was brought to the club by former Pools boss Chris Lax, and notching up 30 appearances at the back last year.

Kris KamaraFormerly of New Marske, the experienced player-coach is a hard player to pin down in midfield when fit and in his best form.

Connor HoodYoung prospect Hood has staked his claim for a place in the starting line-up with some assured performances in midfield, even grabbing a headed goal against Washington in the opener.

Andrew LambertOne of Stokesley’s wiser heads, former Durham City man Lambert brings a wealth of Northern League experience to the side, be it within the back four or a more advanced role in midfield.

Gary RedmanUndoubtedly Stokesley’s star player, wide man Gary joined the club from Thornaby in 2011, and has become an ever-present on the wing. Dangerous in possession and with an ever keener eye for goal, Redman will certainly be one to watch this afternoon.

Ashley LavanYoung prospect Lavan looked sharp and prolific whilst playing for East Durham College and Grangetown, and got off the mark with the opener in Stokesley’s 3-1 win against Washington.

Shaun MakinCentre-forward Makin has bags of Wearside League experience, and played under Monty Alexander at New Marske along with his brother Michael. Shaun will undoubtedly add strength to Stokesley’s forward line.

Alex Caisley22-year-old Caisley has turned out for Division One side West Auckland, and graduated from Northallerton’s academy side. The wide man will be looking to impress with the rival Yorkshire outfit.

the players

stokesley sports club

Ian Dunn

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club the manager18In partnership with West Allotment Celtic ‘A’ team

the Seaham result

On the whole, I would have been absolutely gutted if we had’ve come in and drawn 1-1. I would have been devastated, as I thought we were the better side by a country mile. Their lads, when we’ve shaken their hands at the end, they’ve said the same, that we deserved that. I’m over the moon. Our heads could have gone down when they equalised, but to be fair, our lads realised that we deserved that, so we kept going, kept plugging and got our rewards at the end. We changed the squad around a little bit, and the lads who have come in have done a great job again, so I’m happy. Very happy!

the penalty appeals

The handball definitely wasn’t one, because that was against me! It was never a handball. The one in the first half, I can understand where they’re coming from, as there was a coming together, and if it was against us, we would have felt aggrieved, to be fair, so they probably did have a shout

there, but if I’m being brutally honest, I don’t think they deserved anything from the game. We deserved the three points, and I’m just pleased we got them.

Hudson’s impact on the right wing

The left-back just got rid of Chris Douglas and thought “I’ve seen him off”, and then Liam Hudson comes on and absolutely tears him apart. I felt sorry for the kid, to be fair. But Hudson got told to get past his man and put the ball in the box, and the final ball he put in there for the goal was unreal, and I’m just pleased that Reidy got on the end of it.

Allotment’s malleable gameplan

When we played Willington away, I picked the biggest team I could. We knew it was going to be a battle, we’d done our homework on them. We did alright against Whickham on Friday night, eleven versus eleven, but we didn’t use the ball as well as what we can.Tonight, we knew we had footballers all across the pitch. We played through the middle third, and I thought we were excellent. We played some good stuff, some nice little ten yard triangles. It was good to watch, I would think.

fa vase progress

It would be nice. We don’t want to look too far ahead, as we nearly got a fright here against Stokesley a couple of weeks ago. I’m pleased in a way, as the lads know that they can’t take it for granted now. We know that they’ll come here and give us a good game. We’ll have to be ready for it this time, we can’t take anything for granted. We nearly got our fingers burned against them two weeks ago.

“I would’ve been gutted if we had drawn 1-1”

PAUL STONEMAN’S TAKE ON RECENT EVENTS AT WHITLEY PARK...

...AND A LOOK AHEAD TO TODAY’S FIXTURE

the interview

Ian Dunna brief chat with...

the performance against Seaham

I thought we played very well. In all three thirds of the pitch we dominated, especially in the middle of the park. I thought Marc Allen had an excellent game, the back four controlled it. We missed a few chances - it could have been more comfortable - but all in all, we outperformed them, outfought them, and looked the better side throughout the game.

on being rested

I’m always disappointed to miss any game, whether it’s a big team or one of the little teams. It’s disappointing, but I understand the decision - got to give lads a chance, you cannot just turn up every week and not get a kick. It’s just one of those things!

strength in depth?

Of the 21, 22 lads he’s got, he (Stoneman) can pretty much interchange the majority, and

you wouldn’t see a great dip in performance, I think. He’s got a squad where he can change one or two personnel every week and you wouldn’t really see a difference. I think people can slot in, and lads that are on the bench are not necessarily worse players - they can come in and do as good a job as anyone that is starting the game.

the ‘worldy’ goals

If Paul Hogg would let me move from just in front of the back four, I think I could be a regular goalscorer! But he’s very disciplined in the role that he gives me. Tongue in cheek!

on his future at Allotment

I wouldn’t want to move from the club. You couldn’t ask for a better pitch to play on, a better set of lads. It all depends on fitness and how it goes. I rely a lot on getting around the pitch, so as soon as I can’t get around

the pitch then I’ll look at it again.

promotion possible?

Definitely. As long as we keep battling for every ninety minutes and keep scrapping for every point, I can’t see why we cannot push for promotion.

THE longest-serving outfield player at the club, Ian Dunn evaluates the Seaham performance, extols

the virtues of Paul Stoneman’s strong squad, and discusses his future at Whitley Park.

19

...AND A LOOK AHEAD TO TODAY’S FIXTURE

In 1994, the future looked bright for up-and-coming defender Paul Stoneman.

The 21-year-old had spent three largely fruitful years in the seaside town of Blackpool. Under the watchful tutilage of fellow Geordie migrant Billy Ayre - in the managerial hotseat after succeeding former boss (and current Newcastle United Chief Scout) Graham Carr - the centre-half racked up almost fifty appearances in a tangerine shirt. He even formed part of the squad that earned promotion to the new Division Two in 1992, playing alongside such esteemed luminaries as future England winger Trevor Sinclair and club legend Dave

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club20

big sam, meetthe little stonas

Celtic manager - and former Blackpool man - Paul Stoneman is reunited with his former boss at Whitley Park

Bamber. But, after surviving relegation by the skin of their teeth on a shoestring budget, chairman Owen Oyston rang the changes. Ayre made way for young schemer Sam Allardyce, not yet wide enough to earn the moniker by which he is currently well-known. Once he strode through the gates at Bloomfield Road, Stona’s days at the club were numbered. The promising stopper was released forthwith, deemed surplus to requirements by the Seasiders’ new gaffer.

Nineteen years later, both men stand together at a mutually familiar ground. It served as an auxiliary pitch for Big Sam’s reserve side during his troubled stint at Newcastle United, and is currently the home of Stoneman’s West Allotment

Celtic side. It’s the day before two big games - West Ham’s trip to St. James’ Park, and Allotment’s first home game of the season after a mixed start on the road.

The Hammers were undertaking their final preparations for their second game of the campaign, and Allotment’s player-manager had decided to take a trip down to Blue Flames to see the briefest of his employers. “Smailesy (club president Alex Smailes) gave me the shout to say that they were coming to train here, and I thought I’d come and see him,” explained Stoneman. “He was the manager who released me from Blackpool, funny enough. It was 1995 when I got released, so I came over to watch them train.”

sam allardyceBig Sam was sacked as Blackpool manager after failing to win promotion, but, after managing the feat with Notts County, returned to Bolton, leading the club to its highest finish and UEFA Cup qualification. A turbulent spell at Newcastle followed, before Allardyce restored his reputation at Blackburn Rovers - only to be dismissed unexpectedly by the new board.

the feature 21

big sam, meetthe little stonas

Any bitter animosity that may have once existed between the rejected player and then-inexperienced manager has long since simmered, with both coaches sharing a mutual respect. “I’ve always had a bit of a grievance with him for letting me go, but to be fair he was good as gold,” admitted the veteran centre-half. “He recognised me, came straight over and had a bit of craic with me. He had his picture taken with the twins. It was an experience, and it was good to see him again.”

The next afternoon, both parties could just about be pleased with their days’ work. Celtic came from behind to snatch a win against Stokesley, whilst Allardyce’s West Ham held his old side to a dour but satisfactory goalless draw. Big Sam headed back south on the Saturday night not just with one more point on the board, but with the respect of a player he cut loose almost two decades ago.

paul stoneman

Above: Stoneman’s boys with the West Ham United manager

Stona went on to establish himself as a Halifax Town stalwart, appearing over 150 times for the Shaymen, being named the club’s greatest ever

player by the PFA in 2007. The centre-half was also the club’s youth team coach, and, after spells at Harrogate and Wakefield, took up

a player-coach role at Bridlington and had a spell at Bradford Park Avenue, but ultimately returned home to the North East.

22

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

Celtic came out on top in one of their first competitive games since the resumption of the Northern Amateur league after the Second World War. The team squeezed to a 2-1 win at home to Northumberland Square Presbyterians.

1946

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club on this day the onion bag

A milestone in Celtic’s history as they rattled up their highest ever score in a competitive match. Smiths Dock were

the team on the receiving end of a 16-0 annihilation in the first round of the

NFA Minor Cup. The goals were shared between just four players. The prolific

Ian Halliday helped himself to seven while both Ray Taylor and Michael

Whinn grabbed four apiece. Studley rounded off the massacre. However,

the record score was somewhat of an oasis in a series of depressing seasons

for West Allotment as the sixties came to a close.

1968

1974Wilson, Williams, Taylor and Breeze shared the scoring as

Allotment sustained their excellent start to the Northern Amateur league season. However, after the 11-0 and

8-0 thrashing of New Delaval Star and Northumberland College respectively, Michell Bearings could feel

reasonably happy at restricting Celtic to a 4-2 victory.

Allotment played host to a young Shildon outfit, and, despite going behind early on, Celtic soon rallied, Andy Hay’s header levelling the scores before half-time. The striker grabbed his second just before the hour mark, evading two tackles before slamming high into the net, before Michael Dixon’s first goal for the club secured all three points for the home side. The win moved Celtic back into the top four - an impressive start to their debut ANL Division One season.

2005Celtic played a “home” match at Benfield Park (now Sam

Smith’s Park) due to Whitley Bay having first claim on Hillheads. Seal gave Holker Old Boys an early lead following

some shambolic defending and the home cause was hindered by the dismissal of Baird for foul language soon afterwards.

Despite being a man down, Celtic always threatened to grab an equaliser before a late strike from Livingstone settled the

FA Vase tie in the Cumbrians’ favour.

1996

23

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

ALLOTMENT, it is fair to say, are perhaps one of

the quieter teams in with a shout for promotion. Not in terms of the decibel levels - Chairman Roland’s impassioned bellows can be heard around the Rising Sun for some time after - but according to the results. Aside from the opening day drubbing of Alnwick, Celtic’s scorelines have remained somewhat modest. The margin against Willington and Whickham was a comfortable two goals; the difference between ourselves and Stokesley was even tighter. Meanwhile, other promotion pushers have been uprooting trees in their quest for ascension. North Shields have caught the eye, scoring goals as though they were going out of fashion. Second in the GD stakes are Seaham Red Star, a dangerous attacking outfit who had found the net three or more times in all but one of their league fixtures. They were expected - and expecting - to bring that threat up the A19 on Wednesday night. And yet, for the majority of the game, the Star were dimmed, outshone in particular by Celtic’s midfield

three. Henderson, Reid and Allen may have been playing together for the first time this season, but it certainly didn’t look like it. The trio utterly dominated the game for the hosts, Reid’s relentless pressure enforcing sloppy errors by his Seaham counterparts, and allowing Henderson time on the ball. A little deeper, Marc Allen was there to mop up any fledgling attacks and kickstart Allotment’s own responses. It was a splendid and at times mesmerising performance from a midfield five without Dunn, Hudson, Bell and Latimer. For the visitors, the dangerous Adam Johnston showed why he was the division’s second-highest scorer, putting himself about and being denied what looked like a clear penalty, following a challenge from ‘keeper Beal. It was to be one of the Star’s two isolated chances as Celtic dominated. The opening goal was yet another Dormand tap-in - right place, right time, and the right man to do it. The opposing manager was less focussed on his side’s inability to get into the game, instead training his less than family-friendly mouth on the ref’s ear at half-time. For Colly, the second

half looked little better from the stands, as Celtic continued in much the same way. On came Channon North, and, in the 75th minute, the Star had an unlikely equaliser from a set-piece - though their rangy talisman was nowhere to be seen. Instead, it was Johnston who reacted quickest to turn the ball past Beal. In response, Allotment threw on Liam Hudson. The attacker is colloquially known as “powerhouse” - and full-back David Short soon found out why. The substitute easily bustled past his man before delivering an absolute peach of a cross. The ball bounced between the ‘keeper and the back four, to be met by the incoming Sean Reid. The pure joy of a last-gasp goal, the relief at having taken all three points, the release of those jangling nerves. It made for one hell of a finale. Celtic may not be putting six and seven past teams on a regular basis, but they score when it matters against the top teams. Say it quietly, now - whisper it if needs be - Allotment are one of the favourites. Hopefully we’ll be shouting it from the rooftops come April.

goal of the weekReidy’s stooping header at the death - a great finish from a terrific Hudson cross.

Man of the weekThe diminuitive midfielder quietly bossed the game in the middle of the park with a typically assured performance.

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club on this day the onion bag

Tow Law Town

a

ttack

m

idfie

ld

def

ence

gk

name

Chris Bannon Ryan BealBob Rodgerson

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

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

Liam Hudson David DormandJed FindlayRyan AndersonLawrence McKenna

apps

430

4 (1)7

5 (1)0 (1)

70

2 (2)7

0 (3)

6 (1)5 (1)2 (2)

51 (2)

10 (2)

6

5700

1 (3)

yel

100

111000000

00000001

00000

red

000

000000000

00000000

00000

asts

000

002010100

02011000

20000

player statisticstop scorers

the playmakers

the mainstays

the bad boys

average starting XIBannon

StonemanFordDouglas Dummett

Dormand

Hudson

Dunn Bell

Reid

Sean Reid - 4David Dormand - 3

Ian Dunn - 2

Michael Bell - 2Chris Douglas - 2Liam Hudson - 2

Marc Dummett - 7Paul Stoneman - 7

Glenn Ford - 7

Dean Lee - 1 0Chris Bannon - 1 0

Marc Dummett - 1 0

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club the player statistics24

Lee

gls

000

111010000

20140001

03001

fixtures, results, table 25

AUGUST 10th

14th

17th

21st

24th

30th

SEPTEMBER 4th

7th

11th

14th

18th

21st

28th

OCTOBER 5th

8th

12th

19th

26th

30th

NOVEMBER1st

9th

16th

23rd

30th

DECEMBER6th

14th

21st

28th

JANUARY4th

10th

18th

31st

FEBRUARY8th

15th

22nd

MARCH1st

8th

15th

22nd

28th

APRIL5th

12th

18th

26th

TBD

NL D2NL D2FA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2FA VaseNL D2NL D2NL D2FA VaseNL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

Lg CupNL D2

AAAAHH

HHAHHAA

AAHAHH

AHAHH

HHAH

AHAA

HAH

HAHAH

AHAA

HA

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

W 2-1

Alnwick TownHeaton StanningtonBillingham SynthoniaWillingtonStokesley SCWhickham

Seaham Red StarStokesley SCNorton & StocktonEsh WinningTow Law TownTBDDarlington RA

WhitehavenChester-le-StreetBirtley TownRyton & CrawcrookNorth ShieldsNorthallerton Town

Brandon UnitedJarrow RoofingWashingtonChester-le-StreetThornaby

Heaton StanningtonWillingtonSeaham Red StarNorton & Stockton

Tow Law TownAlnwick TownStokesley SCWhickham

South ShieldsEsh WinningDarlington RA

WhitehavenBirtley TownRyton & CrawcrookNorthallerton TownBrandon United

Jarrow RoofingWashingtonNorth ShieldsThornaby

Ryton & CrawcrookSouth Shields

fixtures andresults

BirtleyNorth ShieldsHeaton StanSeahamWACNorthallertonAlnwickWhickhamJarrowStokesleyNort & StockDarlo RATow LawCh-le-StreetBrandonWhitehavenThornabyWillingtonEsh WinningSouth ShieldsRytonWashington

12345678910111213141516171819202122

7687678868867785888477

5555544443233222112000

2110022102400221330211

0022112323234342446266

12267

169

12045013-3-3

-10-9-6-7

-19-5

-10-23

171616151514141312111099887666211

team pl w d l gd pts

nl div 2 table

OFFICIAL NORTHERNLEAGUE SPONSORS

rottweiler’s notes

West Allotment Celtic v Stokesley Sports Club rottweiler’s notes26

No Morgan today, so I am dragged off to Newcastle. Fed up with having to travel around the coast on the Metro to Newcastle. Normal service resumes on Saturday after a one month closure and it can’t come quick enough. Speak to manager at John Lewis about my ongoing problem with Sony after buying a new television and I can’t speak highly enough of John Lewis, superb customer service.

Morgan, who is only five, asks me why I am taking tablets (Diabetic) today. Try and explain to Morgan that they help your blood sugar levels; to cut the story short, she asks if I will die if I don’t take the tablets and I tell her that I will and I will be really sad if I don’t see her grow up, so that is why I am taking the tablets. Morgan replies, “You can’t be sad if you are dead.” How does a five year old come out with that statement? What are they teaching them at school nowadays? Anyway, on to happier times, and we earn a good three points with a 3 – 1 win over Whickham. Excellent crowd and really good to see Leo Osborn (League Chaplain) at the game tonight. Friday night games are really worth the effort.

Match assessor at Sunderland RCA v Bedlington Terriers, and upon my arrival discover the referee has injured his back lifting his bag out of his car. Assistant referee Lindsey Robinson referees the game and under the circumstances she does very well. For those who don’t understand Lindsey is a Level Four referee (Northern League Division Two) and she referees a Level Three game today.

Due to my bad back, unable to drive to Liverpool today, Barbara not very happy is an understatement. I watch the North West derby and the North London derby, and I must say the London game was a much better affair.

Barbara goes off to Newcastle and mercifully she can’t drag me along, as I am match assessor at Newcastle U21 v West Ham U21 (1pm kick off) - not a bad game, with Newcastle losing 5 – 4, having been three goals up after only 11 minutes.

Morgan returns to school today and proudly tells me that she is a big girl now as she is in Year One. Attend committee meeting and, thanks to Morgan’s initials, I am one of the 16 winners, along with two other members of the committee - one of whom is the bloodhound.

Barbara and I have a day out in Morpeth, and as we are walking through the shopping centre, Barbara says, “Look at the “b****” on that.” I say to her, “What the hell are you talking about?”, and she points at a statue of a bull. More words were exchanged but I will not elaborate any more - just use your imagination! Barbara is 64 years old and I do wonder what goes through her mind at times. Great result tonight against a very physical, intimidating and foul-mouthed team, along with very poor conduct in their technical area.

Committee

meeting

8pmRingtheBloodhound!

29th

Aug

30th

Aug

31st

Aug

1st

Sept

2nd

Sept

3rd

Sept

4th

Sept

RingtheBloodhound! FOREST HALL YPC

Proud to support West Allotment Celtic

Forest Hall Young People’s Club are based at East Palmersville Sports Pavilion, and have no fewer than 25 teams playing under

the Forest Hall banner, including youth, senior and women’s teams.

Ryan HODGSONThomas LAVERICKMatthew ROBINSONDaniel JONESPhillip KINGStuart BROWNEMartin McMANUSChristopher DOCHERTYLloyd EVANSTom WOODAdam JOHNSTONDavid HICKAlex CAISLEYConnor HOODNathan GRAHAMAndrew LAMBERTAaron FOLEYMatthew DUNFORDGary REDMANGreg UPTONDavid ANINAKWASteven THOMPSONAshley LAVANShaun MAKIN

Chris BANNONRyan BEAL

Bob RODGERSONJohn PENDLEBURY

Roy GORDONMarc DUMMETTMichael LATIMER

Stephen LITTLEPaul STONEMAN

Glenn FORDChris DOUGLAS

Ian DUNN (c)Marc ALLEN

David HENDERSONMichael BELL

Sean REIDKallum McGLEN

Tony LANCASTERDean LEE

Liam HUDSONDavid DORMAND

Jed FINDLAYRyan ANDERSON

Lawrence McKENNA

WestAllotment

Celtic

StokesleySportsClub

Referee: M BUNTING Assistants: A KITCHEN S GOLDSMITH

Manager: Paul STONEMAN Manager: Monty ALEXANDER

Follow us@wacfc

Find us onFacebook

www.westallotmentcelticfc.com

WADE FINANCIAL