NPL East - Belper Town - 23.03.24

WELCOME TO INGFIELD

Good afternoon and welcome to Ingfield for the first time in a month! It is four weeks since an Adam Priestley hat-trick saw us claim three points against Consett before frustratingly away games at Liversedge and Carlton Town were postponed, this stop start season is frustrating and makes consistency difficult to achieve. Last time out we extended our unbeaten run with a valuable point at Winterton Rangers, our last defeat coming on 10 February away to today’s visitors Belper Town.

Off the field, at the last Board meeting Steve Hanks made the decision to stand down having given 40 years’ service to football in Ossett with first Albion and now United.

PHIL SMITH,CHAIRMAN

Steve and I worked very closely together in the early part of 2018 as we had to ensure everything was in place for the merger of the two Ossett sides, a two-year process was completed in just six months, much of that is thanks to Steve and his diligence.

You can read more about Steve in our president notes later in the programme.

Steve and I have become very close friends and will remain so forever more. that’s what Football is about making great friends and cherishing the moments together.

Looking back at today’s game, on non-League Day, we welcome ProstateCancer.org to Ingfield for whom there will be a collection. Ossett United supporter, Dan Burkey, who works closely with prostatecancer.org will be available with information and pin badges, as well as collections that will be available in Kelly’s Bar and the club shop.

Thank you for your support

Phil

THE PRESIDENT ’ S ADDRESS

We recently received news that long-serving Club stalwart Steve Hanks has given notice of his intent to relinquish his position as a member of the Ossett United Board of Directors. Steve’s decision, one which I know was not taken lightly, has been reached primarily on health grounds but he has been quick to stress that there has been no falling out or disagreements whatsoever and, fortunately for us, he will be continuing his association with the Club but with reduced responsibilities. I use the word stalwart advisedly because, having looked up the definition, it perfectly sums up Steve’s contribution to the cause. Loyal, reliable and hard-working the dictionary says and these are just three of the characteristics of the man, I would also add wise, honest, thoughtful and non-controversial to that list of qualities.

A former Ossett Albion Club Chairman, amongst several other roles within that Club, Steve was both vital and instrumental prior to and throughout the merger of Town and Albion when his extensive

NEVILLE WIGGLESWORTH

knowledge of football protocol proved absolutely invaluable in dealing with a complex issue such as the merger of clubs. Predictably Steve’s involvement meant that, in no small way, the whole process went through smoothly with minimal fuss and problem. It should be remembered that we are where we are today thanks in no small degree to the time, effort and commitment of Steve Hanks especially in the early days of our existence.

I know I speak on behalf of the whole Club when I extend very sincere thanks to Steve for all his hard work and dedication. We are indeed fortunate to have had the benefit of his knowledge. The Club have also decided to honour Steve in a fitting way by appointing him as Ossett United’s Vice President to take place with immediate effect.

Each year as part of our contribution to the local community we organise two collections for the South Ossett Foodbank which is one of our numerous charity partners. We are proposing to hold the second of the two collections when we meet local rivals Liversedge at home on Monday April 1 st . Our last effort realised a magnificent response from our fanbase and hopefully this time we can get somewhere near the amount last raised just before Christmas. Whatever you are able to donate

will be gratefully received and we would like to ask supporters to be as generous as they are able to be. All contributions can be deposited at the usual collection point near the main gates to the ground and we thank you in advance for your assistance in helping such a very worthy local facility.

We came away from Winterton last Saturday with a valuable point in our battle for survival at Northern Premier League level. What was far less pleasing was the injury incurred by our influential midfield player Janni Lipka. Janni picked up a knee injury making a last-ditch tackle which almost certainly prevented us from conceding a goal and it looks as though he will now be out for the remainder of the season which will undoubtedly prove a big void to fill.

If we keep picking up points along the way between now and the end of the season I am confident that we will manage to maintain our place at this level. As I’ve said many times in these notes before getting into the Northern Premier League is a far more difficult

proposition than slipping back down to Northern Counties East League level and every point we get will be absolutely vital in our bid for survival. Let’s hope we can get something out of this afternoon’s encounter against high-flying Belper Town which will allow supporters to breathe a little more easily.

We would like to offer a very warm welcome to Ingfield to the Directors, management team, players and not least the supporters of Belper who have travelled up from Derbyshire for this fixture. A special welcome in particular to a couple of Belper Town Directors whom I have known for many years. Dave Laughlin and Phil Varney have been associated with the Club for well over 40 years and we as a club always value their friendship.

Finally two of our own Directors celebrated their birthdays this week so belated Happy Birthday wishes to James Rogers and Stuart Garside.

Neville

THE DUGOUT

AVID BROWN –INTERIM MANAGER

Good Afternoon and welcome to Ingfield for this afternoon’s clash with Belper Town. It seems ages since we were last here and the lads have done really well to navigate through a tricky spell of 4 out of our last 5 games being played away from home. A quick pit stop at home this afternoon before we head off on the road again for the next 2.

I am expecting a tough battle this afternoon against promotion chasing Belper. We know it will be a difficult game but we are certainly looking to put on another strong performance the fans can be proud of like they witnessed last time at home against Consett.

The main aim when taking over in a precarious position just 2 points off bottom at the turn of year was to ensure Ossett United remained their status within the division for next season. The effort from

everyone involved, from players to staff to fans and board members combined, working together and most importantly working hard is something we all pride ourselves on going into every game and training session. The group have set good standards for themselves which has seen us now go unbeaten in the last 3 games and suffer only 2 defeats in the last 8 (if we don’t count the lottery of penalties at Guiseley).

The club moto of stronger together is something we must endeavour to carry on doing collectively between now and the 27th April to ensure we finish the season as strong as possible. Hopefully we all enjoy the game and carry on the right path we have recently taken.

Stronger Together

Brownie

CAPTAIN’S COLUMN

HARRY COATES -CAPTAIN

results recently and look to add to that against a strong Belper side.

We believe in what we have in the dressing room and every point now counts. We hope the fans believe in what we have and get right behind us for the last few games. Look forward to hearing you get behind the team.

Harry The business end of the season has arrived and last Saturday was ugly but it was all about not loosing against a team below us in the table. We managed to secure a point.

As a team we are looking up the table rather than below and our aim is to jump a couple places to secure our safety. We have had some good

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ACKROOM STAFF

DAVID BROWN – INTERIM MANAGER

Brownie has stepped up from a coaching role to become Assistant Manager this season before being appointed as Interim Manager in December 2023 as his off-field reputation continues to grow. Highly respected at the club and following an excellent non-league playing career Brown will be hoping to transfer that into the dug-out.

RYAN PUGH – GOALKEEPING COACH

Ryan’s playing career saw him feature for Goole, New Mills, Matlock Town and a famous spell at Ossett Albion fondly remembered by Ossett Town fans after one particular Ossett Derby (ask him, he loves talking about it…) Pughy had been a member of the back-room staff at Belper Town before joining Ossett United in October 2022.

PADDY MILLER – DEFENDER/COACH

Paddy surprised the Non-League World as he came out of retirement last season to return to the field re-igniting a defensive partnership with Harry Coates which proved successful at both Hyde United and Tadcaster Albion. Paddy adds experience and a sense of calm to any side he is part of.

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TOM CLAISSE - MIDFIELDER/COACH

Experienced midfielder, signed from North Ferriby. Claisse adds a touch of calm and composure on the field. TC started his career at Bradford City and has also played for both Ossett Town and Albion as well as Farsley, BPA and Tadcaster. He also captained the RAF Football Side and was given the honour of carrying the FA Cup to the Royal Box ahead of the 2018 final between Manchester United and Chelsea.

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JOE GREEN - GOALKEEPER

Former Guiseley, Newport County and Hyde United goalkeeper, Joe is strong in stature, an excellent shot stopper and his distribution of the ball will be a huge asset this season. Joe made his professional debut for Newport County in the FA Cup 3rd round against Blackburn Rovers.

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CALLUM HIDDLESTONE - GOALKEEPER

Signed on emergency cover in February after spending time in Sheffield United’s academy. Has impressed since, particularly during the 0-0 draw at Winterton Rangers where a number of excellent saves secured a point for Ossett.

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HARRY COATES - DEFENDER

A key signing last season from Ashton United despite being chased by National League North and NPL Premier Division sides. Appointed club captain this summer. Harry is a commanding central defender and comfortable with the ball at his feet and more than capable to step into midfield.

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ADAM WATSON - DEFENDER

A midseason signing from Sheffield FC, where he’s made over 20 appearances this season. The former Worksop man will be looking to form a partnership with the returning captain Coates to shore up the United defence.

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SHANE KILLOCK – DEFENDER

A dominating central defender, Killock joined the club from NPL West side Mossley. Killock started his career at Ossett Albion before a move to Huddersfield Town where he made his debut for them away at Crewe Alexander. He has also played for Oxford United, Harrogate Town, Telford United amongst others.

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JACOB MCLOUGHLIN – DEFENDER

Signed in the summer of 2023 having impressed in the friendlies. Strong at the back and can step into the midfield with the ball to start attacks, he was most recently at York City.

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JIMMY BURKE– DEFENDER

Burkey made 46 appearances for the club between 2018-2020 and is a welcome addition to the squad. As well as a successful first spell at the club he played a key role for Hyde United as they reached the first round of the FA Cup.

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FABIAN BAILEY – DEFENDER/MIDFIELDER

Signed from Pontefract Collieries where he spent four seasons. Fab can turn his hand to a number of positions as required, he started his career at Rotherham United and has also had spells at Frickley Athletic and Ossett Town.

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DERRY ROBSON – DEFENDER/MIDFIELDER

Talented and versatile, Dez is as comfortable in midfield as he in at full-back. Derry has experience of promotion from Step Four and will add drive and experience to the side. Dez joined the club in 2022 from NPL East side Cleethorpes Town.

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COREY GREGORY – MIDFIELDER

Cultured midfielder, Corey returns to Ingfield after a spell at Brighouse Town. No stranger to Grant Black who has signed him for a third time having worked with him at Ossett Town and Belper Town. Corey will be a driving force in the heart of the pitch.

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MEET THE TEAM

JANNI LIPKA – MIDFIELDER

A key player in the successful Hyde United side who played MK Dons in the FA Cup, Lipka has great experience and has played a central role for the club since signing last season. Having had an injury interrupted season last year, with a full pre-season behind him Janni is expected to go from strength to strength this season.

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STAFFORD CLARK – MIDFIELDER

Signed on Work Experience terms from Sheffield United until the end of the season. A player with real technical ability, who will be looking to make his mark on senior football.

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SAM TINGLE – MIDFIELDER

A ball playing midfielder who had been training with United as he returned to fitness following injury. Signed forms with the club in late January and has impressed his combative yet composed displays in midfield since.

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DESMOND AMPONSAH - FORWARD

Quick and tricky from either foot, Desmond is sure to get the fans excited, a real defenders nightmare. Desmond spent last season with Liversedge and Tadcaster Albion gaining NPL experience.

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RAFA FERREIRA - FORWARD

A flair player who impressed in pre-season and earnt himself a deal at the club. Rafa counts Guiseley, Pickering Town and Tadcaster Albion as his previous clubs before joining the blues in the summer.

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TJ IBRAHIM - FORWARD

A dynamic winger with an eye for goal, TJ was the first summer signing joining the club from Brighouse Town where he has spent the past five seasons. TJ has given full back’s sleepless nights over recent years and know how they think as he is more than capable of fulfilling that position himself if required.

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ALEX PETERSON – FORWARD

A key member of the side and captain when Coates is not available, Alex’s work rate is second to none and he is a handful for any defender that he comes up against. Strong and excellent in the air he is a focal point of the Ossett side bringing players around him into the game whilst also finishing any chances created.

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ADAM PRIESTLEY – FORWARD

Resigned for the blues in January. A fan favourite from our inaugural season, he made an instant impact on his second home debut with a goal. He’ll be looking to help the blues climb away from the bottom end of the table.

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NIAH PAYNE – FORWARD

Joined the blues on loan in February from NPL Premier Division side Stafford Rangers. 26-year-old Payne started his career at Bradford City before a spell in non-league earned him a move to Scottish side Peterhead where he made over 50 appearances.

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THE OPPOSITION

Belper Town – A History

Belper Town's unusual nickname, 'The Nailers', came about because the craft of nail making began In Belper in the middle ages when it was the site of a hunting lodge for John of Gaunt. The huntsmen needed nails for the shoes of their horses and the trade in nails eventually grew.

Like the nail making industry, Belper Town FC has faded away in the past. Originally formed in 1883, the Nailers went out of existence three times through lack of finance.

The main highlight in those early years was an FA Cup 1st Round tie against Sheffield Wednesday on 15th October 1887 in which the Nailers were narrowly defeated 2-3 by the Yorkshire giants.

The Club reformed again in 1951 and took up residence at the current ground at Christchurch Meadow. In those early days, there were very few amenities on the ground and for a number of seasons, players used to get changed at the Talbot Hotel, a few hundred yards from the ground. The ground was purchased in 1986 from the owners of the adjacent mill complex, for the princely sum of £6,000 and has afforded the club the security of tenure over its facilities ever since. Lying in an iconic setting, the club has made many improvements in recent seasons and is widely regarded as one of the most modern, picturesque and friendly stadiums in the country. The stadium capacity is currently 2,200.

On the playing side, the club joined the Central Alliance League on its reformation in 1951. In the early years, Belper Town enjoyed its record attendance when 3,600 fans turned up to see Belper play Ilkeston Town and regular four figure attendances were commonplace at Christchurch Meadow in those days.

Season 1958/59 was a turning point as the Nailers outshone wealthy Heanor Town and Ilkeston Town, their strongly backed neighbours, with 2,000+ gates to win the Central Alliance League championship and the Derbyshire Senior Cup.

Three years later, they were invited to join the revamped Midland Counties League although three times the Club finished bottom of the League, the last time in 1978/79, when only the charitable overtures of member clubs at the League AGM saved Belper from comparative obscurity once again.

The following season, the Nailers responded to the challenge in magnificent

THE OPPOSITION

style by winning the Midland Counties League championship and, just for good measure, the Derbyshire Senior Cup.

The Midland Counties League merged with the Yorkshire League in 1982 to form the Northern Counties East League and the Nailers won the League Championship in 1984/85. The championship success that season coincided with the arrival of former Derby County and England striker, Kevin Hector. However, lack of finance at that time held the Club back from taking up a place in the newly formed First Division of the Northern Premier League. The club has enjoyed success in the FA Vase, reaching a semi-final appearance in which they lost 2-3 on aggregate to Oxford City, having won the first leg 1-0 at home, in front of nearly 2,000 spectators. Highlights that season included a 5-1 win at Falmouth Town (the longest distance ever travelled for a competitive match) and a 1-0 success at Metropolitan Police in the quarter final.

Having achieved the runners-up position in the Northern Counties League in 1996/97, the Club eventually took its place in the Northern Premier League some 12 years after the first opportunity had been spurned.

Initially the club did well in the NPL but then struggled in subsequent seasons. The late Ernie Moss and his assistant, Sean O’Neill, kept the club safely away from the relegation positions during their time in charge at Christchurch Meadow but the club did not really challenge for honours.

Ernie and Sean resigned their positions midway through the 2006/07 season, to be replaced by goalkeeper, Andy Carney and club captain, Danny Hudson. The joint managers did more than enough though to secure the managerial reins on a permanent basis and enjoyed consistently successful results in the League during their time in charge.

The new managerial team achieved their first piece of silverware in 2008 by winning the Derbyshire Senior Cup with a 4-3 aggregate victory over neighbours, Alfreton Town. In 2008/09, the Nailers finished the league campaign in second place, having secured 81 points and equalling their record points score of 1984/85 when the club won the Northern Counties East League championship. A heartbreaking home defeat in the play-off final against Stocksbridge Park Steels was a bitter pill to swallow. But the Nailers went close again the following season before just missing out for a play-off position by finishing in sixth position. They did capture the League President’s Cup with a 3-1 victory over Stamford.

The end of the season saw the resignation of manager Andy Carney after a

THE OPPOSITION

six-year stint at the club and the appointment of former West Ham and England International defender, Tommy Taylor, as the club’s new manager. Early season expectations failed to materialise and Taylor resigned his position after just nine games in charge, leaving the Nailers with only two wins to their credit.

The Belper board acted quickly to appoint former Retford United manager, Peter Duffield into the hot seat, supported by Mick Godber as his assistant. Results in their first season at Christchurch Meadow were quite remarkable with the team winning 44 points out of possible 48 in the final run-in to the campaign, but the club just missed out on the play-offs by a single goal difference.

Despite a poor start to the 2012/13 season and lying in bottom place in midOctober, the Nailers embarked on a 25-match unbeaten league sequence that saw them gain an automatic play-off position. But heartbreak was to repeat itself at the end of the season when a home defeat against eventual promotion club Stamford in the first play-off match, consigned the Nailers to another season in the First Division.

The club finally made it into the NPL Premier Division at the end of a hard fought 2013/14 League campaign in which they finished the regular season in fourth place. A 2-0 semi-final play-off win at Leek Town set up a home tie against Derbyshire rivals Mickleover Sports and a 1-0 success in that final game earned the Nailers the promotion they had been craving after 17 seasons in the League’s lower tier.

But the 2014/15 season proved to be a major disappointment as Peter Duffield and Mick Godber resigned after a winless opening 10 games.

Arriving in the hot seat was former Grantham Town manager Jimmy Albans and he was joined by his former assistant, Wayne Hallcro, later in the season but despite an encourage spell of late season form and results, the damage had been done and the club lost its place in the NPL Premier Division at the end of the campaign.

Season 2015/16 saw a continued decline in playing fortunes and Albans and Hallcro were relieved of their duties in September 2015 after a dismal start to the season, to be replaced by former Derby County and Notts County defender Charlie Palmer and his assistant, Lee Barrow.

The new management team steadied the ship, securing a comfortable midtable finish and an appearance in the Derbyshire Senior Cup final against Alfreton Town, which ended with an undeserved defeat on penalties.

THE OPPOSITION

Another mid-table finish was secured in 2016/17 but Palmer decided to end his ties with the club and former Belper player, Anthony Danylyk and Paul Donnelly took over the managerial reins, having earned their positions through their managerial exploits at Leek Town the previous season.

The pair decided to cut their ties with the club in December and former Burton Albion legend, Aaron Webster was appointed to the Nailers hot seat, assisted by ex-League professional, Lee Williamson. Their tenure started brightly enough but ended with a disappointing conclusion to the League campaign with six straight defeats, after which they were both relieved of their posts.

Following into the Nailers management roles came Grant Black, who was assisted by former fans’ favourite Mick Norbury. Prior to taking the reins at the Belper Town, Grant had been manager at Ossett Town and led the club away from the relegation zone and into the play-off final, all in the space of 16 months.

Building a squad from scratch, Grant and Mick masterminded a superb turnaround in form, with the team finishing a creditable ninth place at the end of the 2018/19 season. The Nailers continued to build on their upturn in fortunes and when the 2019/20 season was brought to a premature curtailment in March 2020.

The Nailers were in a healthy position in the play-off places and were looking forward to a Derbyshire Senior Cup Final at Derby County’s Pride Park Stadium. Promotion ambitions and cup success were cruelly denied when the season was declared null and void.

But, the undoubted highlight of the season was a great Emirates FA Cup run that ended in the 4th Qualifying Round with a 2-1 defeat at Notts County in front of 5,729 fans, including 1,800 from Belper. It was certainly a day to remember for Nailers supporters.

Then, the further lockdown in October 2020 brought another season to a shuddering halt with the club in a promising league position again. When football recommenced in earnest for the 2021/22 season, hopes were high for another successful campaign and following a encouraging league season, a play-off berth was confirmed after a dramatic late winning goal at Loughborough Dynamo.

What followed, were two sensational performances to win 2-1 in the first play-off match at Stamford (this despite conceding 10 goals by the Lincolnshire club in the two league encounters) and then a 1-0 success at

THE OPPOSITION

Chasetown to finally secure Premier Division status, eight years after their previous success.

The Nailers found life in the Premier Division much harder that they expected and were never really out of the relegation places throughout the campaign. Despite the occasional bright spot, the club suffered too many narrow defeats and matters came to a head when Grant Black resigned his position in January 2023.

The club immediately appointed former Corby Town manager, Lee Attenborough and assistant Matt Wain, for the remainder of the season but the damage was already done and the club eventually succumbed to relegation once again.

Lee and Matt have spent the 2023 close season, completed revamping the playing squad and have assembled a mixture of experienced players and emerging talent that they hope will be able to compete for promotion once again.

THE OPPOSITION

DAN MOORE (Goalkeeper)

Dan returned to the Raygar Stadium for a third spell in December 2023 after previous periods on loan from Burton Albion.. He signed his first professional contract with the Brewers in the summer of 2021 having graduated from the Academy. Daniel was spotted by Albion scouts playing for his previous club Bedworth United, where some eye-catching performance persuaded the Brewers to bring him to the club. Had a severe injury that curtailed his last spell at the club, so he will be hoping for better fortunes this time around.

JAY RABONE (Goalkeeper)

Jay (Jacob) is a tall and athletic goalkeeper who arrived at the Raygar Stadium in July 2023. He spent his formative football career at Nuneaton Borough bat then opted for a scholarship opportunity in the US, signing for California-based team, Lake Tahoe Community College. On his return to the UK, Jay signed for Hellenic League side, Southam United, where his performances for the Warwickshire club drew excellent reviews.

BEN RHODES (Defender)

Ben is an attacking right back who joined the club from Worksop Town in summer 2020. His adaptability made him a key addition to the Nailers squad last season, particularly as he is able to play anywhere across the back four. And, with a great attitude, Ben has really made his presence felt at the Raygar Stadium. He has also played at Stocksbridge Park Steels from where he had a dual registration spell with Penistone Church. Ben won the Manager’s Player of the Season award in 2022/23.

PHILIP WATT (Defender)

Phil joined the Nailers for his latest spell with the club in June 2023. He started his football path with his home town club of Rotherham United. He moved on to Lincoln City in 2004 and spent four years at Sincil Bank, where he made his first team debut in the opening match of the 2007/8 season, and played again in an FA Cup tie against Nottingham Forest. There had been a couple of loan spells at Grantham during his time at Lincoln, but for the next three years he was at Corby Town. In three different spells he reached the 150-appearance milestone for the Nailers, as well as scoring a winning play-off goal to gain promotion and was twice voted into the team of the division during his stays.

DECLAN DUNN (Defender)

Nottingham-born Declan joined the youth-team at Notts County at under-10 level. He made his senior debut for the Magpies in November 2018, coming on as a substitute for in a 4–0 defeat at Barnsley in the FA Cup. He signed his first professional contract at Meadow Lane nine days later. After a very brief spell at Dover Athletic, Declan signed for Grantham Town on a month’s loan before joining Basford United on a permanent basis in August 2020. He returned to Grantham Town on loan in December 2022 before being recalled by Basford in March 2023. He signed for Belper Town in June 2023.

THE OPPOSITION

SIDIK ATCHA (Defender)

Sidik is a central defender who can also play in midfield. He signed for the Nailers in November 2023 from Shepshed Dynamo. He previously played under the Nailers manager, Lee Attenborough at Corby Town and at Loughborough Dynamo but has also appeared for Harborough Town, AFC Rushden & Diamonds, St Ives Town, Soham Town Rangers and Daventry Town

ROBBIE McNICHOLAS (Defender)

Robbie was signed from Derbyshire neighbours, Matlock Town in February 2024. He had previously joined up with former manager, Martic Curruthers in February 2023 when he made the move to the Gladiators from Loughborough Dynamo, having previously graduated from the academy to the first team at Basford United. Robbie is equally comfortable as either a full back or right wing back and has also played for Newark and Carlton Town.

RHYS DOLAN (Defender)

Rhys signed on loan for a second spell from Mickleover FC in March 2024 following an earlier permanent spell with the club. A former Barnsley full back Rhys can play either attacking midfield or left back. He made his name as part of the successful Ilkeston Town Under 18 squad, that had a run in the FA Youth Cup. Barnsley spotted his talent and signed him in 2015, but since his release he has also played at Long Eaton United, Selston, Newark, Alfreton Town and Anstey Nomads.

MASON WARREN (Midfield)

Born in Doncaster, Mason came through the junior ranks at Rotherham United, signing professional in May 2015 and spent three years with them. He had a number of loan spells during his time at Rotherham, including Sheffield FC, Harrogate Town, Grantham, Matlock, Boston Utd, North Ferriby and Gainsborough Trinity and made one start for the Rotherham first team in the EFL Cup in 2016. He was released at the end of the 2017/18 from where he joined Mickleover. A strong playmaking midfielder, Mason can also play in defence and assist in the attack. He was captain of the Mickleover side that finished top of the aborted NPL two years ago scored four goals last season. He joined the Nailers in June 2023.

CURTIS BURROWS (Midfield)

Born in Nottingham, Curtis began his career in the Colts team at Burton Albion before gaining a scholarship with Ilkeston FC. He graduated from the Robins’ Under-21s and reserves to make his first team debut against Whitby Town in April 2013. In December 2015 Curtis began a loan spell at Grantham before leaving Ilkeston permanently to join Coalville Town. He then moved to Loughborough Dynamo in March 2019 and scored 28 goals in 83 appearances for them before arriving at Corby Town in July 2022. He subsequently followed manager Lee Attenborough to the Raygar Stadium in February 2023.

THE OPPOSITION

JAMES CADMAN (Midfield)

Vastly experienced in the highest levels of non-league despite being only 27 years of age, James has continued his footballing journey with a move to Belper Town in June 2023. Prior to joining the Nailers, James had been with former manager Grant Black at Ossett United, whom he joined a dual registration from Scarborough Athletic, where he played a big role in their promotion to the National League North in 2021/22. James was originally a Rotherham United academy player and since then he has played for Harrogate Town, Stalybridge Celtic, Hyde United and Mickleover Sports in his career and will add ability, experience and know-how to the Nailers squad.

LEWIS AUSTIN (Midfield)

Lewis is a current member of the Belper Town academy where his impressive displays have earned him a place in the first team squad. He made his debut for the first team as a substitute in the Derbyshire Senior Cup against Ashbourne Town in December 2022 and scored within minutes of his arrival onto the pitch. Lewis is a player with a great future in the game.

TOBY GREGORY (Midfield)

Toby is a direct, attacking midfielder who likes to dribble and get at defenders. He joined the Nailers from Worksop Town, where he progressed through the under 19s and reserve side. He has time on his side to develop his game at Belper and to add a new dimension to the team’s attacking options.

JAMES OLIVER (Midfield)

Attacking midfielder, James is currently on his second loan from Detbyshire neighbours, Alfreton Town, after a previous stint at the end of the 2022/23 season. James had originally signed for the Reds from Buxton in March 2022. James came through the Sheffield United and AFC Bournemouth youth set ups before enjoying a short loan spell with Poole Town during the 2019/20 season. He also enjoyed a successful spell in the North Counties East League for Handsworth.

BRODIE LITCHFIELD (Forward)

Brodie has enjoyed a significant measure of success in senior non-league circles. A former Sheffield United youngster, Brodie performed consistently well for the Bracken Moor club, eventually earning himself a move to FC United of Manchester. His stay with the FC United was relatively brief and following an impressive pre-season at Gainsborough Trinity, he duly signed for the Lincolnshire club. More moves followed to Mickleover Sports and Ossett United before he joined the Nailers just before the season curtailment in March 2020. Brodie won the Manager’s ‘Player of the Season award’ in 2021/22 following his best-ever campaign for the club. He left the Nailers at the end of the 2022/23 season to join Basford United but rejoined in November 2023.

THE OPPOSITION

KARL DEMIDH (Forward)

Karl has been a prolific goal scorer on the East Midlands non league scene for a number of years listing Belper Town, Mickleover, Grantham Town, Sheffield, Shepshed Dynamo and Loughborough Dynamo amongst his clubs. A football coach at Loughborough University, Karl joined Matlock from United Counties League Quorn in January 2023 having hit 21 goals for them last season. He originally-signed for the Nailers in November 2021 and signed for a second time in January 2024 from Derbyshire neighbours, Matlock Town.

ZAK GOODSON (Forward)

A former product of the Derby County Academy, 23 year old Zak joined the Nailers in December 2023 from Derbyshire neighbours, Ilkeston Town. Previously, he had rejoined the Robins after professional spells with Chester and Altrincham. Zak has a knack of cutting inside his full back and hitting a screamer into the top corner (which we knew all too well at Belper) and was pivotal in Ilkeston success in gaining promotion from Step 4.

KEVIN BASTOS (Forward)

Kevin is one of the most exciting players in the league after scoring 16 goals and grabbing 17 assists for Loughborough Dynamo last season, having joined the ‘Moes’ in summer 2021 from Tamworth. His exploits captured the attention of Basford United who paid a substantial figure for his services last season. Prior to his spell at Loughborough, Kevin played at Spalding United and before that at Ilkeston Town and Grantham. He decided to follow former manager, Lee Attenborough to Belper, signing in June 2023.

TIAGO NASSUNCULO (Forward)

Tiago joined the Nailers in March 2024 on a dual registration with Stamford having recently been at Grantham Town on a similar arrangement with the Daniels. He had previously joined Stamford from St Ives Town in November 2023. A Portuguese winger, Tiago has also played for Barwell, Redditch United, Peterborough Sports, Wisbech Town and Spalding United.

OLLIE BROWN-HILL (Forward)

Ollie joined the Nailers in January 2024 on a dual registration with Stamford AFC. Previously, Ollie had re-joined the Daniels in October on loan from Ilkeston. Originally joined Stamford during the 2016-17 season where he scored 6 goals in 24 games. Came back to the club in January 2018. Left in 2020 to join Ilkeston He has also played for Oadby, Corby, AFC Rushden & Diamonds and Barwell as well as representing England at under 18 and 19 level.

Rise Above It: The Story of Stone Foundation.

All bands begin life in some way, shape or form and it was no different for Stone Foundation. Like many a good football team, SF were aware of the competition and carefully plucked the best players to form their own starting 11 (or nearly in SF's case they're in double figures for numbers!). Sheas and Neil Jones once together in the rehearsal rooms, quickly formed a bond that was unbreakable and became brothers in arms from the off. Speaking about these early days, the lads knew they were on the same wavelength musically and they look back with fondness at the beginnings of a band that they probably didn't realise would become their lives for the next 25 years. It's beautiful to see people reflect in this way and the Mono Media team have captured this perfectly with enough time for Sheas and Jones to reminisce on times that were pivotal in the bands formation. Like all bands the early lineups can mirror a football team with several managerial changes in a matter of months with incomings and outgoings. The level of talented musicians in and around Stone Foundation was mindblowing as everyone of these guys who featured in the band could play!

Over the years the SF lads have worked with some amazing artists spanning the globe's soul sphere. One notable mention in the early days was the legendary Nolan Porter who sang on a few tracks with the band. In the

DAVID POTTINGER

archive footage he comes across and an absolute gentlemen who thrives on working with younger people into the same beautiful thing. It's apparent here just how much hard graft Stone Foundation have ploughed into their career in order to keep pushing their message. Relentless touring and playing to crowds across the country isn't always the rock 'n' roll journey it's made out to be. Another life affirming story from the band's earlier existence was when they had Joe Harris playing on a few shows with them. His links with The Temptations and Norman Whitfield were enough to swoon any audience and the radio session SF did with him on Craig Charles' Funk & Soul Show has gone down in the show's history as one of the greatest to ever air. One of the more alarming moments documented here, was when the band were playing a gig at the well known Fiddler's Elbow, Joe was set to get up and sing a few tunes with the

lads. The band then play the intro to one particular number 3/4 times before Joe exits the stage and heads for the dressing room... Ever the professionals SF carry on until a rather rejuvenated Joe returns to the stage to leave the Camden faithful in awe. Turns out Joe had a toke on a rather funky jazz cigarette before the gig. Boss!

In 2012, Stone Foundation started to reap the rewards of their dedication to the cause with a string of support slots with The Specials. This meant playing to packed arenas to crowds in the thousands. Seas and Jones remember this period with fondness as it definitely felt like the turning point in their story, when the wheels in motion starting to turn that little bit more quickly. The came, "To Find The Spirit" and tune that I feel encapsulates the bands wonderful soulful nature. The music video directed by Mono Media's Lee Cogswell and starring a young Calum Mcnab looking immaculate in a stone Baracuta G9 begs you to ask the question what's not to like? Following this, "A Life Unlimited" was released and featured on Cass Pennant's film, "Beverly" proving once again that people with a sussed ear were digging the Stone Foundation message! The likes of Dr Robert and Graham Parker also featured on the record making it that even more notable.

To read more…visit moveonupblog.co.uk

DAVID POTTINGER

David Pottinger is a writer, interviewer and teacher from Middlesbrough. He has written his own blog – Move On Up - since 2013. The blog is inspired by Modernist culture and covers Music, Fashion, Football and everything in between. From now until the end of the season, we will be featuring a selection of his articles from the last decade. To find more visit moveonupblog.co.uk

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THE UNTOLD GAME

It is an age of financial dominance by a rich, privileged elite, while the rest of football scrabbles for crumbs from the Premier League table, and even in that rarified air the cost of challenging is beginning to fall foul of sustainability rules. It could be easy to imagine a level playing field between all clubs, a kind of socialist footballing landscape where everyone is created equal, and everybody has a chance. Unsurprisingly, that was the theory of football played behind the iron curtain, where works teams became commonplace and players were owned not by clubs, but by the state. But in East Germany, to paraphrase George Orwell, all clubs are created equal, but some are more equal than others.

In general, a quick glance at East German football doesn’t appear to be problematic. Union Berlin, Lokomotive Leipzig, Hallescher Chemie, works teams embodied the socialist principle. But some teams weren’t linked to industry. Berliner FC Dynamo, for example, were the team of the secret police. And that presented a far larger problem than the dominance of oil nations.

BFC Dynamo were the pet project of Erich Mielke, who was head of State Security in the GDR for three decades until the wall fell. That had worrying implications. To begin with, Vorwarts Berlin (the army team, who had hitherto dominated) were uprooted

MARTYN GREEN

and forced to leave the city. Dynamo gave themselves first choice on any and all of Berlin’s young footballers. Using the state apparatus he also ensured they had the best facilities, and the best training, usually in both East and West Germany. Players fitness was exceptional. And there was widespread doping, often without the players’ knowledge, because who was going to stop the Stasi doing what they wanted?

Just as troublingly, any player doing well in East Germany was ‘invited’ to join BFC. But ‘invited’ didn’t quite tell the full story. Players were told that it was a life in the capital, or the end of their sporting careers. Unsurprisingly, Dynamo hoovered up the best of East German talent, first from Dynamo Dresden (another police team) and then elsewhere,, and equally unsurprisingly, they became the most successful club east of the wall.

It wasn’t just players. In one match

HE UNTOLD GAME

against Dynamo Dresden, the referee sent off a Dresden player for a minor offence, and then played on until BFC scored a winner. It was an embarrassment for the players, but nobody dared question it. Refereeing decisions were regularly given to BFC at the expense of other teams. One goal, given for BFC, was so obviously offside that broadcasters were banned from showing it. A penalty given to BFC in 1986, when there were no opposition players anywhere near the ‘fouled’ striker, was named the ‘penalty of shame’. This was after a player had been sent off for leaving the wall in front of a free kick. Officials were very aware of the Stasi’s eyes over their shoulders.

Ironically, this club propped up by an arch socialist attracted Berlin’s neoNazi community. Violent, racist, and hated across the country, they came up with a chant to demonstrate exactly how little they cared.

‘Grandpa was in the SS, Dad was in the Stasi, I’m with BFC’ rang out across the terraces, and hooliganism was rife.

Leaving East Germany was a dangerous gambit at the best of times. When you were supposed to represent the Stasi, it was nearsuicidal. But that didn’t stop some players from trying. On 1980 a tour of West Germany, Lutz Eigendorf, one of their star players, slipped his minders and sought asylum. In response, the Stasi imprisoned three more players

MARTYN GREEN

for ‘deserting the republic’, as a very public warning to the others. It also sent 50 agents west, who then tracked Eigendorf’s every move. He played for Kaiserslautern and then Eintracht Braunschweig, where he was a vocal critic of the East German regime. He died just a few years later, in a car crash, and nobody could rule out the involvement of the Stasi. When BFC fans started a Lutz Eigendorf fan club in his memory, they were put under Stasi surveillance.

On the international stage, Mielke’s influence was limited, and BFC struggled. Despite their domestic dominance, they couldn’t cheat their way to victory in Rome, or Madrid. Against others sides east of the iron curtain, they had to contend with Mielke’s counterparts in Romania and Ukraine. And then there was Moscow. If BFC were drawn against a club from Moscow, often it was all over. Not even the Stasi could undermine the plans of the KGB in the motherland.

BFC struggled on for a decade after the collapse of the wall, but then filed for insolvency in 2001. They survived, and now ply their trade in the fourth tier, not quite the titlewinning glory of their dark heyday. But they retain some of the more distasteful elements of their fanbase.

History never dies completely.

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CLUB HISTORY

THE FORMATION

Ossett United was created on 1 June 2018 following the merger of Ossett Town AFC (est. 1936) and Ossett Albion AFC (est. 1944). Both Ossett Town and Ossett Albion had managed to gain Northern Premier League status and maintain that level of football for a remarkable period of time.

The two clubs merged under the leadership of a new board brought together from the two previous clubs. The Club made its new home Ingfield, the previous home of Ossett Town, and used Dimple Wells, the previous home of Ossett Albion, as its Ladies and Academy Team base.

E

ARLY CHANGES

Despite a successful first season on the pitch, off field things were not as successful with a number of board resignations and some challenging financial issues to deal with following the merger. By the end of the 2018/19 season, Phil Smith had taken on the mantle of club chairman with Stuart Garside, Steve Hanks, Paul Billing, Neil Spofforth and Joe Hanks joining the board.

There were more troubles for Ossett United in November 2019 as a significant and unprecedented court case, dating back to a tackle in 2015 when Ossett Town were playing Radcliffe Borough, was lost with United facing legal and damages costs amounting to £135,000. Fortunately, the club received a generous loan from two of its closest supporters to avoid the club going into liquidation (at worst) or selling the Ingfield ground (at best).

CLUB HISTORY

Despite a successful first season on the pitch, off field things were not as successful with a number of board resignations and some challenging financial issues to deal with following the merger. By the end of the 2018/19 season, Phil Smith had taken on the mantle of club chairman with Stuart Garside, Steve Hanks, Paul Billing, Neil Spofforth and Joe Hanks joining the board.

There were more troubles for Ossett United in November 2019 as a significant and unprecedented court case, dating back to a tackle in 2015 when Ossett Town were playing Radcliffe Borough, was lost with United facing legal and damages costs amounting to £135,000. Fortunately, the club received a generous loan from two of its closest supporters to avoid the club going into liquidation (at worst) or selling the Ingfield ground (at best).

James Rogers and Phil Smith swapped roles due to Smith’s work commitments with Rogers taking on the role as Chairman, a role he had previously held at Ossett Town. 2020 also saw the club declare Dimple Wells as surplus to requirements and made arrangements to surrender the lease making Ingfield the single home of the united club.

GROUND IMPROVEMENTS

With the off-field rollercoaster settling down the Board progressed numerous ground improvements at Ingfield with the replacement of the pitch side barrier and installation of LED floodlights being completed in 2021 before attention turned to improving the changing room facilities which took shape in the summer of 2023 thanks to further grants from the Football Foundation.

The extension includes an additional match official room, two offices and a medical room as well as a larger, modern changing room that will become fully operational by the summer of 2024.

The Boardroom has also been strengthened in the summer of 2023 with Dawn Rogers and Kate Hennighan taking their place alongside the eight members already in place.

CLUB HISTORY

OW...

On the pitch, the first year (2018/19) was a remarkable success with attendances significantly increased from what either club had experienced previously, coupled with success on the pitch reaching the play-off semi-final and winning the County Cup, under the guidance of manager Andy Welsh.

Following the departure of Andy Welsh a couple of months in to the 2019/20 season Wayne Benn, assisted by Chick Hayward, oversaw two covid hit seasons. Hopes were high after a positive pre-season in 2021/22 with Benn reshaping the squad. The season started well with Ossett United in the top half of the table but a run of only one win in three months saw a change in the dugout at Christmas with Jas Collvier and Mark Ward taking a joint managerial role.

The season ended well with the pair unbeaten at Ingfield with seven wins and two draws but away from home inconsistent performances and results saw a ninth placed finish in only the clubs second completed season.Colliver and Ward strengthened the squad throughout preseason, and despite on paper the squad looking as strong as it ever had, results did not match expectations. Mark Ward resigned in September with Colliver taking sole charge before leaving the club by mutual consent the following month.

Grant Black became the clubs fourth permanent manager in October 2022, winning his first game in charge, 2-0 at the eventual play-off champions Long Eaton United and only tasting defeat twice in his first 16 games.

Results tailed off as the season ended with the club finishing in 15 th place and only avoiding a relegation play-off place on the last day of the season. The management team oversaw a major overhaul of the first team squad ahead of the 23/24 season and despite glimpses of positivity an inconsistency in results saw United sitting in 15th place when Black and Ossett United went their separate ways on 24 December.

Assistant Manager David Brown was asked to become interim manager supported by Ryan Pugh and senior player Paddy Miller as the club looks to have a positive 2024.

13/04/24

FOOTBALL WEB PAGES

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE

Name: Andrew Daniels

Refereeing Journey: I have always loved football and turned to refereeing to stay involved with the game. It’s great to be able to give something back and be able to officiate at a higher level than I would have been able to play at. My favourite ground I have refereed at is Workington AFC - a long trip but an old fashioned ground that creates a good atmosphere.

Joe GREEN

Callum HIDDLESTON

Jimmy BURKE

Harry COATES

Adam WATSON

Jacob McLOUGHLIN

Dan MOORE

Jay RABONE

Ben RHODES

Philip WATT

Declan DUNN

Sidik ATCHA

Robbie McNICHOLAS

Rhys DOLAN

Mason WARREN

Curtis BURROWS

James CADMAN

Brodie LITCHFIELD

Lewis AUSTIN

Toby GREGORY

James OLIVER

Karl DEMIDH

Zak GOODSON

Kevin BASTOS

Tiago NASSUNCULO

Ollie BROWN-HILL

SHIRTS: SKY BLUE

SHORTS: NAVY

SOCKS: NAVY

GK: ALL GREEN