NPL East - Cleethorpes Town - 27.04.24 by Ossett United

PITCHING-IN NPL EAST DIVISION

SATURDAY 27TH APRIL – 3PM

Issue 24

Vs CLEETHORPES TOWN

SSETT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB

RUNNERS UP: 2001/02

PLAY-OFF RUNNERS UP: 2016/17

NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST PREMIER DIVISION

WINNERS: 1998/99, 2003/04

RUNNERS UP: 1998/99, 2000/01

NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST FIRST DIVISION

WINNERS: 1986/87

NORTHERN COUNTIES EAST SECOND DIVISION

WINNERS: 1988/89

INGFIELD, PROSPECT ROAD, OSSETT, WF5 9HL B ,

OSSETT UNITED IS A TRADING NAME OF OSSETT UNITED LIMITED, A PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES. IT IS A COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES. IT IS REGISTERED AT COMPANIES HOUSE, COMPANY NUMBER 11162425. THERE ARE TWO PEOPLE WITH SIGNIFICANT CONTROL. J. ROGERS (30.4%) AND D. ROGERS (30.4%)

WELCOME TO INGFIELD

Welcome, for the final time this season to Ingfield as the Pitching In NPL East comes to an end. It has certainly not been the season we envisaged last summer and has been very stress inducing that lifted on Tuesday night with what can only be described as our performance of the season away to Hebburn Town.

The pressure had only increased with the impressive results picked up recently by Grantham Town and Winterton Rangers and matched by ourselves against both North Ferriby and Bridlington Town.

Very few, if any, outside of Ingfield believed a positive result was on the cards at Hebburn Town, who would have won the title with a win of their own. A crowd of 1224 turned up on a cold Tuesday night expecting to see a trophy lift but

PHIL SMITH,CHAIRMAN

that party collapsed as it was ourselves celebrating thanks to an Adam Priestley goal to give us a 10 away win.

But that really does not tell the story of the game. In the opening exchanges Derry Robson saw an effort cleared off the line before a good save denied Priestley an opener. The home side were thwarted by excellent defensive performances by Coates and Watson with McLoughlan and TJ on either side preventing many a cross. Priestley and Payne, against their natural instincts, supported the full backs as well as getting forward to give the midfield three of Robson, Claisse and Tingle options to press forward. Alex Peterson, the loan wolf up front ran himself into the ground, winning nearly every header and holding up the play giving the defensive unit the opportunity to retain their shape.

Callum Hiddleston commanded his area and came into his own with an excellent penalty save seconds before the half time whistle blew. It was Priestley early in the second half who converted the only goal of the game after a marauding run from TJ saw him felled in the area.

WELCOME TO INGFIELD

Of course, it is about more than the starting XI on the field, Shane Killock was called upon in the final minutes to add strength to the back line plus Reece Mellor and Jordao Costa, whilst they did not get on the field on this occasion they were vital from the side line and in the dressing room with their support of what the side was aiming to achieve.

With our NPL place retained, today we can breathe easily for 90 minutes, as we have the opportunity with results going in our favour to end the season in 15th place.

The management team have had a tough hand to deal with over the last four months and have shown the desire, effort and commitment to see a positive end of the season we all wanted.

There will be no rest in the coming weeks and months as we work towards ensuring we are not in the same position we have been over the last couple of seasons, I can assure you of that!

We welcome Cleethorpes Town today, with both sides able to relax a little. I expect to see a very exciting game ahead.

PHIL SMITH,CHAIRMAN

Thank you all for your support this season, we know it has been tough at times, your backing has played a huge part as always. Let’s re-charge the batteries and attack the 24/25 season!

Finally, I hope to see as many of you as possible on 3 May as the awards night will take place here at Kelly’s Bar.

Stronger Together

Phil

Follow your club on social media: Ossett United FC @OssettUnited @ossettutd

Nine points from our last four matches have ensured a comfortable end to the 2023/2024 season but it could have been a very different scenario as, with a total of just five games remaining, we were staring down the barrel of relegation. Great resilience and a renewed battling mentality has seen us pick up three absolutely vital victories against North Ferriby United, Bridlington Town and memorably Hebburn Town to ensure that we go into this afternoon’s final game of the season sitting comfortably out of the relegation dog-fight. We can now witness this afternoon’s encounter against Cleethorpes Town with fingernails intact and with regular heartbeats.

The game at Hebburn on Tuesday was an absolute classic in every respect and my only regret is that we couldn’t get more supporters up there to cheer the lads on and, at the end, join in with the celebrations when the enthusiasm of the players and commitment to the cause needed to be seen to be believed. Each and every

ADDRESS

NEVILLE WIGGLESWORTH

player gave everything. On the night they were all heroes to a man and they will long be remembered for their collective part in securing Ossett United’s Northern Premier League status for another season at least. Adam Priestley will get the accolade of scoring the allimportant goal from the penalty spot that kept us up and rightly so. So much depended on his penalty kick and his nerves must have been jangling but, with a cool head, he despatched it with aplomb. I would also like to single out Callum Hiddleston whose goalkeeping performance, under immense pressure, was something special and not least his fantastic penalty save minutes before the half time whistle. His handling throughout was impeccable and we were indeed fortunate to acquire his services when we did. Callum has made a big impression here at Ossett United and we owe him a lot.

While on the subject of the Hebburn game I must also mention another of our number who doesn’t always make the headlines but that is Matt Blackburn. Because so few of our regulars could make it to Hebburn they had to rely on our radio commentary and they certainly weren’t let down if what I have heard since is true. To a person everyone I have spoken to

THE PRESIDENT ’ S

and who listened to Matt’s commentary expressed their compliments and appreciation for the service he provided. Obviously being there I didn’t hear it but I am reliably assured it was quite brilliant!

I know that in these notes I possibly overstate the strength of the teams from the North East but three of the six (Hebburn Town, Stockton Town and Dunston) are currently lying first, second and third in the league table and the other three (Newton Aycliffe, Consett and Ashington) are comfortably established in mid table. Having said that I would be willing to bet there are few teams in the League with a better record against them especially away from home than ourselves. We have come away from the North East with 4 wins and 2 defeats. Less impressive though was our home form which saw us pick up just 1 win and 1 draw with 4 defeats.

After today’s game I will be opening the CRY charity boxes on the bar and forwarding a donation on

behalf of Ossett United to the Daniel Wilkinson Foundation. If you can please consider making a donation to this most worthwhile cause it would be very much appreciated. Last year we as a Club donated £42. We are a bit below that figure this time around so please give generously if you are able.

The curtain comes down on our 6th season as a merged club after today’s encounter but during the summer over the close season there will be plenty of ground improvements going on around Ingfield. If you have time to spare to help out you will be more than welcome to come along. A paint brush is all you need (and some overalls if Moz is helping out!). We usually meet around 9.00am to 9.30am on Saturday mornings and we would love to see you then once the season is over.

Neville

THE DUGOUT

Good Afternoon and welcome to Ingfield to both sets of supporters for this end of season finale against Cleethorpes Town. The lads are finally back on home soil following 3 long away trips, which saw us visit: Nottingham, Bridlington and Newcastle.

3 wins in the last 14 days rounded off with the win away from home against the league leaders in front of 1224 crowd, expecting a party and to see a trophy lift saw us secure our place in the league for next season with a game to spare.

I’d be lying if I said the last 4 months had been easy. We have had to face scenarios and situations that some management teams wouldn’t face in 20 years, if I wrote them down you wouldn’t believe me.

So it makes the achievement of

DAVID BROWN –MANAGER

staying up, right up there as one of my biggest in football.

The run in saw us have to travel to all our relegation rivals away from home, plus the daunting task of facing 4 of the top 6 away from home. It has been a hell of a fixture list. To only suffer defeat once away to our 5 relegation rivals, furthermore manage to pick up more home wins in the second half of the season for our supporters to enjoy has been massively important and pleasing to us as a group.

For the lads to travel away to the champions in waiting Hebburn on Tuesday night - trophy and medals at the ready and execute the game plan so well is testament to every single one of them.

The task ahead of us last Tuesday night was a Hebburn team that had won 11 on the spin, kept 8 clean sheets in the last 10 games and the last time they didn’t register a goal in a game was January. Encapsulated with a record attendance, made it a very pleasing 3 points and I was so proud of my staff and players.

In recent weeks it has been pleasing to be able to sit down

THE DUGOUT

with Ryan, Tom & Paddy and plan for a game with what we actually want to do, rather than needing to put square pegs in rounds holes, which has frustratingly happened too many times. The return of 3 wins in the last 4 games totally echoes that.

Finally to all the supporters that have stuck with the club and team through thick and thin this season, I’m thankful to you all

DAVID BROWN –MANAGER

and so happy we can enjoy the final day together. Stress free, nonE of us needing to keep a check on the heart rate and cheer the lads on to the final 3 points of the season.

Stronger Together has certainly played a huge role in us all getting this job done together.

Brownie

CAPTAIN’S COLUMN

So we now reach the final game of the season. In my last column I said about the necessity of picking up 3 points.

Taking 9 from a possible 12 in our last 4 games secures our place in the league next season. Everyone at the club has worked extremely hard to secure safety and I’m so proud of the lads for accomplishing this.

The performance at Hebburn on Tuesday night was a real highlight.

HARRY COATES -CAPTAIN

Everyone had wrote us off. From the league taking the trophy to the ground for Hebburn to lift ‘if’ they won, to some bookies having us priced at 20/1 to win.

We had a game plan and we executed it to perfection. We truly believed we could cause an upset and claim those 3 vital points.

It means today we can play without pressure and hopefully this shows in the performance. We want to end the season on a high for you – the fans.

Thank you to each and every person involved at the club for their continued support.

Harry

Juice Personnel are an independent recruitment agency based in Wakefield. We were founded in 2003 in Huddersfield with the knowledge that things could be done differently. This led us to adopt what we called our ‘refreshingly different’ approach. This radical new approach to recruitment was based around our core values of mutual understanding, honesty, integrity and quality.

From day one we had a policy to constantly review how we worked. Because of this dedication to self-improvement and our refreshing, personal approach to recruitment we saw a client and candidate loyalty that we’ve never experienced before and quickly outgrew our small office.

Skip forward a few years and we still hold fast to the same morals we started with: mutual understanding, honesty, integrity and quality Because of our unwavering dedication to client and candidate satisfaction Juice Personnel are now seen as one of the leading independent recruiters in Wakefield.

OSSETT UNITED OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER

Player’s Number

Number 1

Number 2

Sponsor

Stanley Kelly

The Scottish Supporters Club

ACKROOM STAFF

DAVID BROWN – 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.

SPONSORED BY JP NUGENT LTD PLUMBING AND HEATING

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.

SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

MEET THE TEAM 2023/24

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.

MEET THE TEAM

JANNI LIPKA – MIDFIELDER

2023/24

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.

MEET THE TEAM

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.

THE OPPOSITION

The 2023/24 season is the Owls’ 7 th as proud members of the Northern Premier League and Cleethorpes Town has certainly come a long way in its relatively short history.

Initially formed in 1998 as Lincolnshire Soccer School, it was the brainchild of former Grimsby Town player Tommy Watson. The team was an immediate success, with both boys & girls across every age group ensuring that the club began to grow quickly.

Two decades ago, a flagship senior team was established. In the Owls’ first season in the Lincolnshire League, a creditable fourth place finish was secured.

After being rebranded as Cleethorpes Town, the club has developed into an important community asset. Over 35 teams, competing at every level of local and regional football, represent Clee, making the Owls one of the largest providers of sport in the area.

The excellent array of teams and high-quality coaching saw the club awarded the Football England accredited status, which underlines the commitment to provide an exceptional product, alongside all-important exercise & enjoyment for youngsters.

This development and evolution have, of course, been spearheaded by the first team. With the arrival of a new manager, the club finished third in Lincolnshire League in 2011. Silverware was secured as well, by defeating Heckington United in the Supplementary Cup final at Sincil Bank.

New heights were scaled the following year, with Clee securing a “double”, becoming Champions of the Lincolnshire League and holding aloft the Challenge Cup. This success saw the club accepted into the Northern Counties East League.

Our first season in the NCEL saw us finish fourth in Division One table, with some impressive victories along the way, and was generally a period of consolidation.

2013/14 began with a change of management and Marcus Newell appointed. This proved to be the catalyst for a great period in our history.

A long unbeaten streak meant the Owls were top of the league at

THE OPPOSITION

Christmas. However, a slow start to the New Year left a difficult task. Nevertheless, with the pressure at its highest, Clee surged through the pack to clinch the title with a game to spare.

Life in the NCEL Premier Division saw a significant rise in the level of opposition teams. However, after a fine run in FA Cup (defeating Gresley & Carlton Town), Clee adapted well to their elevation – finishing 4th and reaching the final of the League Cup.

The campaign concluded with a trophy in July 2015! Representing the Northern Counties East League in the Toolstation Cup in Bristol, where the team encountered Willand Rovers. A nine-goal thriller ensued, with the Owls edging it 5-4.

After a slow start, season 2015/16 then prompted a tremendous vein of form. The Owls finished third, reached the last 16 of the FA Vase and won an exhilarating League Cup final at Garforth Town FC – defeating rivals Tadcaster Albion 3-2.

Hopes were high amongst the faithful in August 2016, not many though could have predicted the scale of success that unfolded!

The field in the NCEL Premier Division was left trailing in Clee’s wake. A brand of exciting, attacking football was served up week after week. The title was secured at Athersley Recreation and the Owls smashed records –108 points, +99 goal difference and a staggering 144 goals. As well as this, Deeping Rangers were beaten 1-0 in the final of the Lincolnshire Senior Trophy at Sincil Bank to snaffle another trophy.

Perhaps the real story of 2016/17 (and certainly the icing on the cake!) was a trip to Wembley! Trailing 1-0 at Emley in the opening tie with less than 10 minutes remaining, the “arch” seemed a remote prospect. However, in a typical never-say-die performance, two strikes turned it around in Clee’s favour.

Bootle, Billingham Town & Atherton Collieries were all beaten, and a quarter-final in the capital awaited. A carnival atmosphere amongst the travelling Owls ensured the team rose to the occasion, an emphatic 5-2 win over Southall followed – the dream was very much alive!

THE OPPOSITION

A 2-legged semi-final against Bromsgrove Sporting came out the hat. The first-leg in Worcestershire was watched by over 3,300 spectators. Cheered on by a partisan support, Sporting opened the scoring and the Owls had to dig deep in the second period to grab a priceless equaliser.

The return at Bradley Community Stadium had just under 1,200 people packed inside to see Clee gain a 1st minute lead. As time wore on, and with excitement at fever-pitch, the Owls defended resolutely to win 2-1 on aggregate. Wild scenes of celebration followed, as the enormity of reaching a national final sank in.

The showpiece at Wembley, with around 5,000 or so travelling from NE Lincolnshire, resulted in a 4-0 verdict for South Shields. That is the bare facts – however, everyone connected with the Owls still had a great time! A culmination of a lot of hard work had borne fruit.

The honeymoon from Wembley continued in the NPL. Seven straight wins seemed to make back-to-back promotions a distinct possibility. However, an administrative error meant a hefty points deduction and this, coupled with a dip in form, saw the Owls finish an honourable tenth in the 2017/18 campaign.

Despite a best ever run in the FA Cup, the Owls languished at the bottom of the table in October 2018. This led to a change in the hotseat, and incoming Dave Smith oversaw an upsurge in fortunes. A consistent set of results almost secured a play-off, which was frustratingly denied.

Following on from the 2 curtailed campaigns due to Covid restriction, Clee finished 3rd in the East Division in 2022. Ultimate heartbreak though, narrowly losing 2-1 to Stockton Town in the play-off semi-finals. A notable journey in the FA Cup was ended by National North outfit Curzon Ashton in the 3rd Qualifying Round.

Last year was a tumultuous one, with two changes in the management set-up. Dave Smith departed in October to be replaced by Nathan Arnold. Unfortunately, things didn’t work- out for the ex-Grimsby Town man, who left during March.

We are now jointly managed by two of our Wembley heroes, namely Tim Lowe & Liam Dickens.

THE OPPOSITION

Leigh Overton (Goalkeeper)

Leigh has a wealth of experience between the sticks to call upon. An agile stopper, the keeper will be pushing hard to become the firstchoice number 1 during the course of 2023/24.

James McKeown (Goalkeeper)

A local legend! After years of success with Grimsby Town, and a period with Finn Harps, Macca is targeting a final flourish with the Owls to cap a stellar career.

AJ Adelekan (Defender)

A recent signing from Lincoln United, AJ has started brightly in the blue and black stripes. With pace to burn, and an uncompromising tackle, the defender can definitely become an important member of the squad.

Jordon Cooke (Defender)

Jordon is an outstanding centre-back, who gives a consistently high level of performance. Rightly recognised as one of the best in the NPL, Cookey is a commanding figure and formidable obstacle in the rearguard.

Leon Dawson (Defender)

Now a well-established member of the team, Leon is a livewire in the dressing room. The left-back has all the credentials and experience to feature favourably in the management’s planning for the next 9 months.

Tom Jamieson (Defender)

Having plied his trade at Grimsby Borough, Tom made the switch across town in November 2022. Since then, Jamo has shown his class, and is comfortable operating on the right as either full-back or wing-back.

Ben Middleton (Defender)

A no-nonsense centre-half, Ben joins us for a second spell after spending last year with Belper Town. Forwards will be getting zero peace with Midds around, as the defender always seems to be well-positioned.

Josh Smaller (Defender)

Happiest at centre-half, Josh can also play on either flank. Very strong in the air and a handful in both penalty boxes, Josh can also pop up to claim important goals on occasion.

Paul Walker (Defender)

Paul is an accomplished defender. The versatile player is quick and also a danger in the opposing box. Now into his 6th season with the Owls,

THE OPPOSITION

Will Annan (Midfielder)

The Fanzine’s pick for player-of-the-season in May 2023, Will is a firm favourite of the Main Stand faiithful. An athletic player, who has an eye for goal, the attacking midfielder will be looking to contribute to a promotion push.

Louis Boyd (Midfielder)

Grimsby Town’s youngest ever goal-scorer, Louis embarks on a new chapter of his career. Only 18-years old, Louis is extremely promising and has plenty of time on his side to make a mark in the game.

Alex Flett (Midfielder) (Captain)

Alex is rightly considered a club legend and has been a virtual everpresent during our rise through the pyramid. With his trademark tackling, Fletty, who commands respect from teammates and opponents alike, is certain to be seen leading with 100% commitment.

Dan Gallimore (Midfielder)

After a successful loan spell with the Owls, Dan joins on a permanent deal from Scunthorpe United. His signature was hotly contested, and it is easy to see why! Aggressive & hard to knock off the ball, Dan is more or less certain to be an influential figure.

Harry Middleton (Midfielder)

Like his twin-brother, Harry comes back to the Owls from Belper Town. By his own admission, the combative powerhouse was not at his best during his first spell at the Myenergi. Midds will be aiming to prove a point.

Danny Rose (Midfielder)

Bristol-born Danny moves to the Owls from National North outfit Darlington. The swoop for the classy midfielder already looks an excellent piece of business. Danny’s unhurried style and fine vision should prove be a huge asset in the engine-room.

Josh Venney (Midfielder)

Josh is fast developing inro an influential player, who can operate successfully in a variety of positions. Hampered by a long-term injury last time around, Josh will be chomping at the bit to get back into the action.

Curtis Bateson (Winger)

Now well into his 3rd spell with the Owls, Curtis oozes class and quality. Dazzlingly quick, the winger can skip beyond opponents at will, and also possesses the ability to deliver great crosses and effortless finishes.

THE OPPOSITION

Jon Oglesby (Winger)

Jon is a rapid winger who can terrorise opposing full-backs. His ability to beat a man and cross into the danger zone has resulted in many goals. Not just a provider, Jonboy has also netted some very memorable strikes.

Alfie Boswell (Striker)

Alfie has earned a well-deserved elevation to the senior squad following some impressive displays in the junior ranks. The youngster will be hopeful of gaining some more minutes in the Northern Premier League.

Luke Hinsley (Striker)

Having played for Tadcaster Albion and Pontefract Collieries in the East Division in recent times, Luke knows all about what to expect at this level. A clever reader of the game, Luke will be using his experience to good effect.

Harry Lewis (Striker)

Harry is another youngster that has joined us from Scunthorpe United. The attacking player has already made quite an impression, scoring a wonder goal in the pre-season victory against Mossley.

Tim Lowe & Liam Dickens (Joint-Managers)

Two of our Wembley heroes back in 2017, Tim and Liam enter their first full campaign in the hotseat with confidence. Some good displays so far have seen the enthusiasm of the fans re-energised, as we look forward to a successful campaign.

Order yours today! Email: clubshop@ossettutd.com Adults - £40 Juniors - £35

The 'Bullitt' by Delicious Junction a review...

We've been fans of DJ for years here at MOU. They produce timeless footwear with that modern edge that sets the pace for head turning footwear in 2019. Over the years they have had some iconic styles and the 'Bullitt' is one that has become a firm favourite with fans of the brand clamming for a reissue once the first model was long sold out. Based loosely on a 'Sanders Playboy' that the infamous Steve McQueen wore in the film 'Bullit'. Luckily for us the generous people over at DJ sent us a pair of the second issue of the 'Bullitt' to wear and enjoy. Here's my thoughts....

The striking feature of these shoes is the black wrap-around sole which instantly sets them apart from any other standard highstreet shoe you see on the feet of every Tom, Dick and Harry. They're a statement from the floorboards up and set you apart from the fella who's wife buys his gear... The design has changed slightly from the first pair DJ released but like all worthy Modernist brands they're moving forward with their designs and styles with every season. The 'Bullitt' are built to last and they're the ideal boozing partner and wedding guest, perfect for both smart and casual occasions.

When paring these with the right look it's important to factor in the sole and the overall vibe you want to go for. McQueen looked boss in these, so you can too! I found they work equally well with everything I wore them with for example they looked at home with a pair of selvedge denim and some checked strides, easy... I am big fan of the colour options DJ have produced this time round with Ginger, Black and Chocolate being brought to the fore you can guarantee you're gonna get yourself some attention when out on social duties, nothing better than a head turner ey!

MOVE ON UP DAVID POTTINGER

Overall, the 'Bullitt' are a timeless classic that have been brought up to speed to become a menswear classic again in 2019. They're versatile, comfortable and are sure to be a hit among the style conscious this year. Ideal for the man about town, the capucinno drinking people watcher and the susssed soul stylist.

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

Next Week: 2024/25 Season.

New content coming soon.

MOVE ON UP DAVID POTTINGER

MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY FROM £250

SPONSOR A MATCH OF YOUR CHOICE FOR UP TO 8 PEOPLE (£30 PER HEAD FOR ADDITIONAL GUESTS)

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

GROUND ENTRY, ACCESS TO HOSPITALITY

SUITE WITH PANORAMIC PITCH VIEWS (2PM5PM)

SELECT THE OFFICIAL PLAYER OF THE MATCH

- ACKNOWLEDGEMENT IN THE DIGITAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME AND PA ANNOUNCER

- GOURMET BUFFET

- SIX BEERS, WINE OR SOFT DRINKS PER PERSON

ENQUIRIES TO: COMMERCIAL@OSSETTUTD.COM

‘A day without football is a day wasted.’ The words of legendary Austrian manager Ernst Happel might seem like hyperbole, even to him, but his approach to the game was a demonstration of his philosophy in action. He was too young to have been coached by Hugo Meisl directly, but the legends of the Austrian Wunderteam and their Danubian Waltz inspired his career. He made his debut for Rapid Vienna four years after he joined the team at just 13, and he went on to win six Austrian league titles, an Austrian Cup, and in 1951 a Zentropa Cup (also known as the Mitropa Cup, a forerunner to the European Cup). He went to the World Cup in 1954 and helped his team to their best ever finish of third. But however successful his playing days, it was as a manager that he would make his impact across the European game. In 1962, he took the vacant job at Ado den Haag.

Happel’s first training session, making the players stay out in the rain until they could demonstrate ability at his own level, makes him sound like a hard manager, but he was a product of Vienna’s coffee house culture. What had developed as a pastime of the intelligentsia had been adopted by football fans in Austria, where staff and players and fans and journalists would meet and discuss the directions of their

teams. In den Haag, he sought ideas from his players and listened when they came to him. It took five years, but Happel was willing to wait for his moment. Eventually, he hauled the perennial relegation strugglers up the table, and into the Dutch Cup final, where he would meet his legendary counterpart, Rinus Michels.

Ajax, like all Dutch clubs, played a 4-2-4 system. Happel withdrew one of his forwards into midfield. It caught Michels out, and den Haag won the most unlikely of victories. It was the perfect end to Happel’s time there, because if he could beat mighty Ajax with such a small team, just imagine what he could achieve with more resources.

Feyenoord, Ajax’s great rivals, decided not to imagine, and appointed him to find out for sure.

Feyenoord were not in a bad place. They had just won the league, and were heading into Europe. At his first attempt, Happel took his side to the

THE UNTOLD GAME

MARTYN GREEN

final of the European Cup, where they came up against Jock Stein’s Celtic. The Scottish champions also played a 4-2-4, so Happel withdrew his forward once again. Celtic held the Dutch side until extra time, but couldn’t stop the onslaught. Stein would say that Celtic didn’t lose to Feyenoord, he lost to Happel.

Happel won the Eredivisie and the Intercontinental Cup over the next few years, before leaving in 1974 and embarking on a peripatetic career across Europe. But his adopted home kept calling to him, and in 1978 he took on the big job, taking previous runners up The Netherlands to the World Cup.

The Dutch job was a tricky one. He took on a side built by his rival Michels, and there were high hopes that they could go one better. But off the field problems drastically undermined their chances. Building up to the competition, armed robbers broke into the home of Johann Cruyff and tied up him and his family. The Dutch legend wriggled free and chased the attackers away, but was too shaken to leave his family for Argentina. The Netherlands went without him, and played some of the most spellbinding football ever seen at the World Cup. But it wasn’t enough, and once again they lost the final to the hosts. It’s the furthest

MARTYN GREEN

a manager has ever gone with a nation that’s not his own.

Happel went back to trotting around Europe, before a call from Hamburg gave him a second shot at glory. Inspired by Franz Beckenbauer, the German side won the Bundesliga in Happel’s first season, and once again went all the way to the European Cup final. Against Juventus, he proposed man marking Michel Platini out of the game, but coffee house culture still ruled. The players told him it was unnecessary, and he listened. They rewarded his trust with his second European Cup. The usually reserved Happel danced along the touchline at the final whistle, a spectacle likened to the Pope in swimwear as it was so strange.

Happel ended his career as the very first manager to win the European Cup with two teams. He was also the first to win four different European league titles. If a day without football is a day wasted, he didn’t waste a day in his life. Enjoy the game.

THE UNTOLD GAME

Martyn Green The Untold Game Find more at TheUntoldGame.co.uk or on social media @TheUntoldGame

CLUB HISTORY

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.

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).

THE FORMATION EARLY

CLUB HISTORY

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

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.

UP TO NOW...

DATE OPPONENT COMP. RES. SCORERS MOM ATT 04/07/23 (A) HORBURY TOWN FRIENDLY 3-1 IBRAHIM, ONWUBIKO, TRIALIST D 450 07/07/23 (A) ARMTHORPE TOWN FRIENDLY 3-2 ONWUBIKO, KELLY, REANEY 11/07/23 (A) WORKSOP TOWN FRIENDLY 0-1 14/07/23 (A) TADCASTER ALBION FRIENDLY 1-0 JOHN 18/07/23 (A) HEMSWORTH M.W S.KELLY TROPHY 2-0 ROBSON, ONWUBIKO 22/07/23 (A) GOOLE FRIENDLY 1-4 WOODCOCK 25/07/23 (A) GARFORTH TOWN FRIENDLY 0-3 29/07/23 (H) WIDNES FC FRIENDLY 1-0 MILLER 212 05/08/23 (H) 1874 NORTHWICH FA CUP 2-0 PETERSON (2) PETERSON 392 12/08/23 (A) SHEFFIELD FC NPL EAST 1-3 OWN GOAL 321 15/08/23 (H) DUNSTON FC NPL EAST 2-4 IBRAHIM, AMPONSAH WOODCOCK 271 19/08/23 (H) WYTHENSHAWE FA CUP 2-0 BURKE, REANEY BURKE 327 22/08/23 (A) ASHINGTON NPL EAST 1-0 SWALES GREEN 553 26/08/23 (H) STOCKTON TOWN NPL EAST 0-1 COATES 323 28/08/23 (A) PONTEFRACT COLLIERIES NPL EAST 0-4 432 02/09/23 (H) MARSKE UNITED FA CUP 0-3 MILLER 321 09/09/23 (A) NORTH FERRIBY FA TROPHY 1-2 MILLER GREEN 472 16/09/23 (A) NEWTON AYCLIFFE NPL EAST 3-1 EDWARDS (2), AMPONSAH PLATER 158 30/09/23 (H) GRIMSBY BOROUGH NPL EAST 0-2 MCLOUGHLIN 357 03/10/23 (H) GRANTHAM TOWN NPL EAST 0-0 PLATER 168 07/10/23 (A) CONSETT NPL EAST 2-1 IBRAHIM, LIPKA 377 10/10/23 (H) HORBURY TOWN COUNTY CUP 2-0 REANEY, LIPKA REANEY 744 14/10/23 (H) CARLTON TOWN NPL EAST 0-2 346 28/10/23 (A) STOCKSBRIDGE P.S NPL EAST 1-0 PETERSON ROBSON 202 04/11/23 (A) NORTH FERRIBY NPL EAST 1-3 PETERSON 521 11/11/23 (H) HEBBURN TOWN NPL EAST 4-4 LIPKA, GREGORY (2), FERREIRA OMBANG 283 20/10/23 (H) BRIGHOUSE TOWN NPL EAST 1-1 AMPONSAH OMBANG 255 25/11/23 (H) BRIDLINGTON TOWN NPL EAST 1-1 MILLER MILAMBO 335 28/11/23 (A) BARNOLDSWICK TOWN COUNTY CUP 4-0 PLATER (3), PETERSON PLATER 111 09/12/23 (H) WINTERTON RANGERS NPL EAST 4-2 SWALES (2), PLATER, PETERSON PETERSON 218 16/12/23 (A) DUNSTON FC NPL EAST 0-2 LIPKA 204 22/12/23 (H) SHEFFIELD FC NPL EAST 1-4 PETERSON PLATER 326 30/12/23 (H) PONTEFRACT COLLIERIES NPL EAST 0-4 LIPKA 453 06/01/24 (A) STOCKTON TOWN NPL EAST 0-3 DAWSON 555 10/01/24 (A) CLEETHORPES TOWN NPL EAST 0-2 MCLOUGHLIN 325 13/01/24 (H) ASHINGTON NPL EAST 1-2 PRIESTLEY PRIESTLEY 282 27/01/24 (A) BRIGHOUSE TOWN NPL EAST 1-0 PETERSON COATES 311 30/01/24 (H) STOCKSBRIDGE P.S NPL EAST 0-0 TURNER 234

2023/2024

DATE OPPONENT COMP. RES. SCORERS MOM ATT 03/02/24 (H) NEWTON AYCLIFFE NPL EAST 3-4 SWALES, PETERSON, KILLOCK SWALES 295 06/02/24 (A) GUISLEY COUNTY CUP 1-1 FERREIRA (LOST ON PENS) MCLOUGHLIN 257 10/02/24 (A) BELPER TOWN NPL EAST 0-2 TURNER 427 17/02/24 (A) GRIMSBY BOROUGH NPL EAST 1-1 PETERSON ROBSON 148 24/02/23 (H) CONSETT NPL EAST 3-1 PRIESTLEY (3) PRIESTLEY 288 16/03/24 (A) WINTERTON RANGERS NPL EAST 0-0 HIDDLESTONE 217 23/03/24 (H) BELPER TOWN NPL EAST 1-1 PETERSON HIDDLESTONE 340 26/03/24 (A) LIVERSEDGE NPL EAST 0-3 WATSON 280 30/03/24 (A) GRANTHAM TOWN NPL EAST 1-2 WATSON 327 01/04/24 (H) LIVERSEDGE NPL EAST 0-4 485 13/04/24 (H) NORTH FERRIBY NPL EAST 1-0 PETERSON PETERSON 329 16/04/24 (A) CARLTON TOWN NPL EAST 0-3 143 20/04/24 (A) BRIDLINGTON TOWN NPL EAST 2-1 WATSON, PRIESTLEY OSBORNE 345 23/04/24 (A) HEBBURN TOWN NPL EAST 1-0 PRIESTLEY HIDDLESTONE 1244 27/04/24 (H) CLEETHORPES TOWN NPL EAST

SEASON STATS CLUB STATISTICIAN – GEOFFERY PYKE Man of the Match Awards Player League Cup Total Rhys Plater 3 1 4 Harry Coates 4 0 4 Jacob McLoughlin 3 0 3 Alex Peterson 2 1 3 Callum Hiddlestone 3 0 3 Darryl Ombang 2 0 2 Leading Goalscorers Player League Cup Total Alex Peterson 9 3 12 Adam Priestley 6 0 6 Rhys Plater 1 3 4 Kelan Swales 4 0 4 Desmond Amponsah 3 0 3 Janni Lipka 2 1 3 Diego Edwards 2 0 2

2023/2024