NPL East - Consett AFC - 24.02.24 by Ossett United

Vs CONSETT AFC PITCHING-IN NPL EAST DIVISION SATURDAY 24th FEBRUARY – 3PM

OSSETT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB INGFIELD, PROSPECT ROAD, OSSETT, WF5 9HL B , 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 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 to Ingfield for today’s game with Consett, our one home game sandwiched in the middle of six away games! This certainly does present challenges off the field with our main income stream of course being home games!

Before I get to the football, I want to mention the exciting off field news that will be coming to Ingfield this season as we host the Ossett Tribute Festival presented by Sham Jam.

The event promises to be a great day, bringing some of the hottest UK tribute acts to Ossett. There will be incredible stage production, delicious street food vendors, bars, market stalls, kids’ entertainment and much more. It will be a fantastic family day in the heart of Ossett. Search ‘Sham Jam Ossett’ for all the details.

I know many of you have already bought tickets for the event, I look forward to seeing you there on Saturday 11 May.

PHIL SMITH,CHAIRMAN

Back to today, Consett sit in ninth place and only three points behind fifth placed Hebburn Town they will no doubt have their eyes on a late run into the promotion play-offs. We however go into the game full of confidence after a good point picked up last weekend at Grimsby Borough, who themselves travelled to Liversedge in the week and came away with a victory.

The lads have trained this week and I have once again received some excellent feedback on the session as the players are put through their places as the management team get their message across. Everyone in the squad was in attendance, apart from Shane Killock and Theo Farquharson who are both receiving treatment for injuries picked up in recent games. As always, get behind the lads and enjoy the game!

Phil

HE PRESIDENT ’ S ADDRESS

The recent loss of Kelan Swales to FC United of Manchester just when he was really starting to show his full potential with us was a blow there can be no denying. David Brown worked tirelessly in the week to find a suitable replacement to fill that role and his efforts were rewarded with the acquisition of Jake Forshaw on loan from Oldham Athletic. Jake came to us with a formidable record of scoring 32 goals in 34 appearances for Oldham’s Academy side last season but any chance of him transferring that kind of scoring ability to help our fight against relegation was cruelly dashed by a serious injury within seven minutes of his Ossett United debut at Grimsby last Saturday. This virtually epitomizes the kind of luck we have endured throughout this campaign so far. Things went from bad to worse when, having ‘phoned for an ambulance, we were told none were available and the waiting time unbelievably lengthy.

Following the accident, and once the severity of it was diagnosed, our collective sympathy without doubt

NEVILLE WIGGLESWORTH

went out to the lad. Let’s not forget either the efforts of our Secretary Neil Spofforth in the aftermath of the incident. It highlighted the fact that all of the Club’s Officers, officials etc. devote their time and efforts voluntarily and all do this willingly. After all the work that goes in during the week, and especially by our Secretary, what everyone wants on match days, and I know through personal experience, is to watch our team in action. As soon as Jake’s situation became apparent Neil was the one who forfeited enjoyment of his watching of the match in order to see to the wellbeing of the injured player ensuring him the best care possible under the circumstances. Not only did Neil do the job of the ambulance service (once they had managed to manoeuvre Jake’s stretcher into the back of his car) he remained with the player throughout his treatment time in hospital and then embarked on getting him back to his home in Lancashire. He saw virtually none of the game following the incident and, therefore, deserves a huge thank you for all his efforts and care on the day.

Voluntary work leads me on to others who work in the interests of the Club willingly giving their services unpaid. Once again two of our regular supporters Mick Javens and Rod Furniss gave their time and effort recently to repaint the Graham Firth Suite to freshen the

whole place up. Both have undertaken several projects this season and they don’t do it to get thanked but their efforts are very much appreciated all the same.

Of late our performances have perhaps not been fully rewarded in terms of results and we know only too well football is a results business and supporters have a right, having paid their money, to want positive outcomes. Since David Brown took over the managerial reins here at Ingfield the response of not only our supporters but also the supporters of our opponents have been refreshingly positive. Unusually fans of Guiseley, Belper and Grimsby have taken the trouble to engage me in conversation after matches to express their admiration of our performances. Certainly at Guiseley and Belper in particular the home fans could not believe where we stand in the League but League

tables don’t lie after 27 games and the time is fast approaching where we need to get some more points on the board in order to maintain our Northern Premier League status. Nobody can deny that we are definitely making a fist of it and supporters appreciate and acknowledge that and it would be a real tonic if we can get a win this afternoon against Consett whom we beat 2 – 1 at their place back in early October with goals from TJ Ibrahim and Janni Lipka. Consett are still vying to make the play-offs so it’s a real test but we go into this afternoon’s encounter with renewed optimism and any help the lads get from the terraces won’t go amiss.

Neville

THE DUGOUT

Good afternoon to all supporters as we make a quick pit stop at home, while we navigate through a run of 6 out of 7 games away from home.

AVID BROWN –INTERIM MANAGER

Liversedge mid week, win 3-1 and then digest that they’ve only actually lost two games of football in their last 12 outings. Which echoes how well the lads actually did and performed.

The fixture list has been tricky and Consett who are having a good season pose another challenge for us this afternoon. But I have full believe and confidence in this team now to go out and give anybody a game. The support we received at Grimsby was brilliant and I look forward to more of the same this afternoon.

Firstly, I’d like to send my well wishes to Jake Forshaw who In the first few minutes of his loan spell from Oldham Athletic suffered a broken ankle. A devastating blow to both himself and us. Whilst discussing loan spells, it was great to see Lewis Turner mark his return to Farsley Celtic with a winning goal for them. It really emphasised how a loan deal can work for all parties involved and showcases to clubs higher up the pyramid the great work we do when they are with us.

Following the 1-1 draw at Grimsby last weekend everyone including myself may have initially felt disappointed and aggrieved to concede late on. On reflection you then see them go to

Stronger Together

Brownie

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

CAPTAIN’S COLUMN

Good afternoon and it’s great to be back at Ingfield.

A good point on the road needs to be backed up with another good performance and points today. We all wish Jake a speedy recovery following the point against Grimsby. On a positive Training has been sharp and we have continued to strengthen the squad. We have

HARRY COATES -CAPTAIN

been able to work more on how the management squad want us to play and I’m sure that is been seen by the fans.

It’s the business end of the season now and we all know how important every point is, so get behind the lads. We really do appreciate it!

Enjoy the game.

Harry

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ACKROOM STAFF

DAVID BROWN – INTERIM MANAGER

BROWNIE HAS STEPPED UP FROM A COACHING ROLE TO BECOME ASSISTANT MANAGER THIS SEASON AS HIS OFF-FIELD REPUTATION CONTINUES TO GROW WITH A VARIETY OF INNOVATIVE TRAINING SESSIONS KEEP THE PLAYERS ON THEIR TOES. HE HAS RECENTLY STEPPED INTO THE ROLE OF INTERIM MANAGER FOLLOWING GRANT BLACK’S DEPARTURE.

RYAN PUGH – GOALKEEPING COACH

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JOE GREEN - GOALKEEPER

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THE OPPOSITION

Consett AFC – A History

Consett AFC begin the 2023-24 season hoping to build on the 13th-place finish which the club achieved in their Step 4 debut last time round. It’s fair to say the 2022-23 campaign in the Northern Premier League Division One East was a big learning curve for the club, on and off the field.

Now, under the leadership of Frank Bell, who’s been chairman for 10 years, and Tony Fawcett, who took over as manager in November 2022, the club is looking onwards and upwards. Consett won their place in the NPL with a 2-1 victory at Histon in an inter-step play-off.

Like most non-league clubs, Consett had endured the frustration of two years of hard work coming to nothing due to the coronavirus pandemic, with 2019-20 declared null and void by the FA, and the following season curtailed. They also saw the momentum of their best-ever FA Vase run interrupted, with the Semi-Final delayed until September 2020, and the Final played almost a year late.

The players, staff and committee of the County Durham club got their longawaited day at Wembley on May 3, 2021, though a 90,000-seater stadium with no fans made for a surreal experience. In a thrilling final, Consett took the lead twice with first-half goals from Ali Alshabeeb and Dale Pearson but were swiftly pegged back by fellow Northern League side Hebburn Town both times. Pride in the team's fine performance on the big stage turned to heartbreak when the Hornets scored a late goal to make it 3-2 and take the Vase to South Tyneside.

2021-22 saw the Steelmen achieve their pre-season aim of promotion. They led the Northern League for seven months, taking a mid-season managerial change in their stride. But a disappointing run-in, losing five times to lowertable opponents as a crippling injury list caught up with them, handed the initiative to North Shields, who ended nine points clear as worthy champions, leaving Consett as runners-up for the fifth time in their history, and having to go up the hard way, via the play-offs.

The foundations for this success were laid by Kenny Lindoe, who became manager in 2005. Consett had just been relegated for the second time in three seasons. They’d gone straight back up the previous time, and did it again, smashing club records along the way. They started with 19 consecutive wins, finished with 102 points, a +103 goal difference, and a biggest-ever win, 12-1 v Guisborough Town

THE OPPOSITION

His attack-minded team's first season back in the top flight, 2006-07, saw them finish a creditable 4th, but the high-spot was beating Chester-Le-Street Town 3-2 to win the Durham Challenge Cup for the sixth time, but the first in 38 years. You’d have to be a supporter of many years’ standing to remember the others, in 1948, 1950, 1959, 1961 and 1969.

Consett built a reputation as the league’s ‘entertainers’, and hopes were high that 2007-08 would see them break their duck and win the Northern League, which they’d joined in 1970. They’d come close once before, in 1976-77, finishing level at the top with Spennymoor United, but losing a title play-off 3-0 - goal difference not counting at the time.

The campaign started well, and Lindoe’s side were among the front-runners until the turn of the year. But a long FA Vase run, which ended in a controversial 5th Round exit at Merstham, cost them dear. Playing catch-up with league games proved too much for a relatively small squad, and they had to settle for the runners-up spot behind Durham City.

In 2008-09 they were twice within minutes of a first title. A point from their last game at Whitley Bay would have made them champions, and they led 2-0 at half-time. But a second-half fightback saw the FA Vase finalists (and eventual winners) break Consett hearts with a late winner. Three days later Newcastle Benfield went to Penrith needing a win to snatch the championship from Consett's grasp, and got it with a few minutes to go, leaving the Steelmen as runners-up for the second year in a row.

2009-10 was ruined by injuries, with up to 12 players out at a time, and 41 different ones used during the campaign. Away form was excellent, with 14 wins on the road matched only by champions Spennymoor. But erratic home form meant the Steelmen had to settle for a 10th-place finish.

In 2010-11, Lindoe carried out a major rebuild, and was rewarded with a rise to the top of the table on the back of excellent home form, where his team went 13 games unbeaten. They lost momentum after the manager suffered a near-fatal heart attack, but under caretaker boss David Hagan and assistant David Robson, they rallied to finish runners-up for the third time in four seasons.

The next two years, overshadowed by planning wrangles, saw the club finish 15th and 9th. The end of an era came in May 2013, when the club finally left Belle Vue Park, their crumbling old home of 63 years. Built by volunteers from the town’s long-gone steelworks, its opening game v Sunderland Reserves in

THE OPPOSITION

August 1950 attracted the never-bettered gate of 7,000.

Memories of the old ground and the teams who played there would live on among older supporters – they won the NEL League Cup in 1951 and 1954, the Northern Counties League in 1962, the Northern League Cup in 1995, and reached the FA Cup 1st Round twice, in 1958 and 1996, the second under long-serving manager Colin Carr, who was in charge for 15 years.

The new ground, Belle View Stadium, was built by Durham County Council at a cost of £3million in exchange for surrendering the remaining years on the lease for the old one. It came complete with a state-of-the-art 3G pitch, able to withstand all but the worst North West Durham winter.

The opening night, Friday 22 November 2013, was beyond anyone’s wildest dreams. Newcastle United, who provided the opposition for the Steelmen’s last game at the old ground, were first footers at the new one, and a Peter Beardsley-led side performed the honours in front of a bumper crowd of 2,954. Consett-born FIFA official Mark Clattenburg, who gave his services for free, had to delay kick-off by 25 minutes so everyone could get in. The Magpies won 2-1, but a week later Consett beat Spennymoor Town by the same score in the ground's first Northern League game.

That 2013-14 season, when the club had to play their first 18 league games away while their new home was being finished, was always going to be one of consolidation, and they finished 11th. But Frank Bell, who took over as Chairman in 2013, put in place a plan of gradual improvement, on and off the field, with the aim of making Consett AFC a force to be reckoned with over the next few years.

There was a setback in January 2015, when, after nearly 10 years and more than 500 games in charge, manager Kenny Lindoe stood down. He’s still at the club, scouting and helping with player recruitment. His replacement was Colin Myers, who led the team to a 9th-place finish. The following season started promisingly, but form slowly deteriorated, and after a defeat at West Auckland on 5 March 2016 – the 9th in 13 games – Myers resigned.

Mark Eccles, a Consett lad who played more than 100 games for the club, became interim manager and got the team back on track, playing attractive attacking football. Ten wins, three draws and just three defeats in 16 games saw his appointment made permanent at the end of the season –one of the youngest managers in the Northern League at just 35.

THE OPPOSITION

James Anderson (Goalkeeper).

Age 21. Signed on the eve of the season from Morpeth Town, James was a long-term target for manager Tony Fawcett, who had him on a season-long loan in 2021-22 when he was in charge at Whickham. James got a taste of the Northern Premier League on loan at Dunston last season, and made a couple of cup appearances for Morpeth, helping them win a penalty shootout in the FA Trophy in just his second game. He made his Consett debut in the FA Cup win at Kendal Town on 5 August.

Luke Spoor (Goalkeeper).

Age 19. Luke is a promising young keeper who has come up through the ranks of Consett U21s and Reserves, helping them win promotion and reach a cup final last season. He has been on the bench for several first-team games without making his senior debut.

Cieran Ure (Goalkeeper).

Age 20. Cieran is another promising young keeper who has come up through the ranks of the club's Under-21s and Reserves, training with the first team and making the matchday squad as long ago as 2021-22. He made his senior debut at Bootle in the FA Trophy on 9 September.

Josh Baggs (Defender).

Age 20. Signed on dual registration from Seaham Red Star on 30 October 2022, Josh made an instant impact on his Consett debut v Grantham Town on 5 November, providing an assist for our first goal in a 2-2 draw. Nominally a right-back, he can also play on the left flank or in central defence. Came up through the Sunderland AFC Academy, and played 18 times in the U18s Premier League, scoring five goals. After being released he joined Seaham in September 2021. Loves to get forward and join the attack, and got two goals in 18 appearances last season.

Arjun Purewal (Defender).

Age 34. Signed in March 2017 from Jarrow Roofing. The twin brother of Hebburn's Amar, Arj has made more than 200 appearances for the club. A Northern League winner with Darlington, he played in the NPL for the Quakers, Durham City, Blyth Spartans and Whitby Town, as well as having two spells at Bishop Auckland. A Panjab international, he was Supporters’ Player of the Year and a Durham Challenge Cup winner in 2017-18. A key figure in our FA Vase run, he was proud to lead the team out at Wembley. Missed the 2021-22 promotion run-in and the start and end of last season due to injury, but is back to lend his experience to the defence.

THE OPPOSITION

Dan Capewell (Defender).

Age 27. A commanding centre-back who signed initially on loan from Dunston in January 2022. Dominant in the air and good on the ground, he'd been with the Tynesiders since 2016, having previously played for Bedlington Terriers and North Shields Athletic. Made his Consett debut on 22 January 2022 in the 2-0 win at Newton Aycliffe and got his first goal v Ryhope on 12 February - the first of 4 in 13 games. Missed several games in the promotion run-in due to a badly broken nose, but returned for the play-off, in which he played a pivotal role. Signed permanently in summer 2022, and had an excellent first full season, culminating in three awards at the end-of-season presentation.

Ben Milburn (Defender).

Age 21. A big, physical central defender with lots of pace, Ben was part of the summer 2022 influx ahead of our NPL bow. Emerging from the highlyrated Park View Academy youth set-up, he played for Chester-le-Street United, Blyth Spartans and Whickham before joining North Shields, where he was part of the squad which pipped Consett to the Northern League title in 2021-22. Switching to Consett, he made his debut in the FA Cup at Goole, and quickly established himself as a regular starter, playing 33 games, and being named Manager's Player of the Year.

Ryan McKinnon (Defender).

Age 27. The popular defender returned to Consett in the summer, having made 158 appearances in our colours, scoring six goals, in his first spell between 2015-2019. The big centre-back spent several years at Newcastle United Academy, and signed for Consett after being released. He made his debut v Sunderland RCA in August 2015, and was a member of our Durham Challenge Cup winning side of 2018. After departing he captained Tow Law Town to promotion to Division One of the Northern League, and helped Ashington win promotion to the Northern Premier League.

Harvey Rudd (Defender).

Age 17. Harvey is a young centre-back who is dual registered with Northern League side Chester-le-Street United, who he played for against Consett in the FA Youth Cup this season! He has made the first-team bench twice, for away games at Ashington and Newton Aycliffe, but is still awaiting his senior debut.

THE OPPOSITION

Kieren Aplin (Utility).

Age 23. The skilful left-sider spent several years at Newcastle United Academy, where he was a regular in the U18s Premier League. Signed for Consett in July 2020 and spent pre-season at Belle View, but joined Gateshead in September 2020 without playing a competitive game. Made his Heed debut before the season was curtailed and re-signed for 2021-22 but was loaned to NPL side Hebburn Town. Released by Gateshead in June 2022 he joined Consett, making a scoring debut in the FA Cup at Goole. Had an injury-interrupted season, but showed his versatility at full-back, in midfield and up front.

Jake Orrell (Midfield).

Age 26. Signed in September 2019 from Blyth Spartans, he made his debut as a sub in a 2-2 draw at Stockton. Joining Gateshead from Sunderland Academy, he signed for League One side Chesterfield, where he made two first-team appearances. After spells with Matlock Town (loan), Hartlepool United, Spennymoor Town, Newcastle Benfield and Blyth, he joined Consett, and was ever-present in our run to the FA Vase final. A big miss when he went off injured v Hebburn at Wembley, he played in all 50 games in our 2021-22 promotion season. Has captained the side and has almost 150 games for the club to his name.

Matty Slocombe (Midfield).

Age 29. Signed in January 2012, Matty is the club's longest-serving player, and has been named captain for his 12th full season at the club. Will play anywhere, but is happiest in central midfield, where he never shirks a challenge. Has been Players' Player of the Year twice, and was also nominated twice for Northern League Young Player of the Year. A key part of 2017-18's Durham Challenge Cup-winning side, he has made over 400 appearances and is a real fans' favourite. Missed only one game of our FA Vase run, and was many people's man of the match in the final. Played as an emergency centre-back at times, and was man of the match in the play-off at Histon which secured our NPL place.

Calvin Smith (Midfield).

Age 36. Returned to Consett in summer 2017 after a season at Jarrow Roofing. His first spell, after signing from Spennymoor Town in 2012, saw him score 26 goals in 208 games, including some superb long-range strikes. A class act, with a great range of passing, he was a Durham Challenge Cup winner in 2018, and joint-Player of the Year. 2019-20 saw him score 18 goals –his best-ever seasonal tally. An ever-present in the Vase run, he scored twice in extra time at Atherstone and got the winner in the semi-final v Bitton. With over 450 games for the club, he is third in our all-time appearance list.

THE OPPOSITION

Adam Mitchell (Midfield).

Aged 30. One of Consett's major summer 2022 signings, after spending the previous five years at West Auckland, where he scored 18 goals in 98 games. Began at Sunderland, making his way through the ranks until given a firstteam debut at Tottenham in May 2013. A regular in the reserves in 2013-14, he was loaned to Darlington near the end of the season, and eventually released. Signed a two-year contract at Darlington, where he made 109 appearances, scoring 14 goals, and then had a year with Spennymoor Town, helping them win promotion to the National League North. Joined West Auckland on loan in August 2017, before signing permanently. Won the Durham Challenge Cup in 2021. Made his Consett debut as a sub in the FA Cup at Goole and figured in 30 games last season.

Ben Ramsey (Midfield).

Age 22. A big summer signing from NPL Premier side Morpeth Town, Ben has already shown he's a player to excite the Belle View faithful. A long-time transfer target for the Steelmen, who tried to sign him from the Highwaymen last season. He was a member of their squad which won the Northumberland Senior Cup, beating Blyth Spartans at St James’s Park. A product of Park View Academy at Chester-le-Street, Ben played his first senior football at Chester-le-Street United. Had trials at Gateshead, Sunderland and Stoke City, and spent the past four seasons with Morpeth. Made a scoring debut in the FA Cup at Kendal on 5 August.

Jack Gibbons (Midfield).

Age 22. The Londoner is a summer signing who is at Durham University on their football programme. He captained them to victory in the BUCS national championship - their first title in 67 years - demonstrating strong leadership qualities on and off the field. He has played for Fisher FC in the Southern Counties East League Premier Division, and was at Wealdstone as a youngster. He's another quick, direct and skilful player who quickly became a crowd favourite, and he has contributed an impressive workrate as well as goals and assists. Made his debut in the FA Cup at Kendal.

Kaleb Young (Midfield).

Age 22. Consett’s fourth signing of the summer, joining from Whickham. Manager Tony Fawcett returned to his old club for the attacking midfielder. The Birtley lad did a two-year scholarship at Morecambe, then signed for Hebburn Town Reserves after being released. After Covid he joined his local side Birtley Town for a season before joining Whickham. He was part of the squad which finished in a best-ever 7th place in the Northern League Division One in 2021-22, weighing in with several goals and assists. Made his debut in the FA Cup at Kendal.

THE OPPOSITION

Jack Caygill (Midfield).

Age 18. Jack is an exciting young midfield prospect who signed for Consett in November 2023. A scholar at the Sunderland AFC Foundation, he captained Consett U18s in this season’s FA Youth Cup. Jack, who is from Wolviston on Teesside, has played for Billingham Synthonia in the Northern League and Seaton Carew in the Wearside League. A good technical player who can play in a number of positions, he is hard-working and plays with passion and desire.

Wil Shaw (Midfield/Forward).

Age 20. Wil, from Stanley, is a midfielder or striker who has spent the last three seasons with South Moor AFC in the Wearside League, where he came through the youth ranks. Consett manager Tony Fawcett believed Wil had the ability and physique to step up three divisions into the NPL and has been proved right. Players’ Player of the year for South Moor in 2021-22, he got six goals in pre-season, and hasn't stopped scoring since. Another opening-day debutant whose workrate and cool finishing quickly made him a fans' favourite.

Zak Atkinson (Forward).

Age 28. Consett's first signing of summer 2022, from Northern League neighbours Whickham, as they began a major rebuild ahead of stepping up to the NPL. Pacy, with a good physical presence, he agreed terms despite being wanted by several other clubs. Zak has also played for Blyth Town, Ashington, Bishop Auckland, Blyth Spartans and Shildon. His workrate, passion and commitment quickly made him a crowd favourite. Made his Consett debut in the FA Cup at Goole on 6 August and was last season's top scorer with 12 goals, despite missing a third of the season through injury.

Scott Fenwick (Forward).

Age 33. A big, physical striker who made his name in the Northern League with Newcastle Benfield, Durham City and Dunston UTS, earning a pro contract at Hartlepool United. After 10 goals in 42 games over two years he played in the National League for York City and Darlington. After a spell in Malta he returned to the UK, signing for National League South club Chelmsford City and making history by scoring a hat-trick of penalties in consecutive games. Spells at Blyth Spartans, Cork City in the League of Ireland, Forfar Athletic in Scottish League One and Workington in the NPL West followed, before he joined Consett in 2022. Made his debut v Ossett on 22 October 2022, and six goals last season helped secure NPL status.

THE OPPOSITION

Riley Mouat (Forward).

The 18-year-old was signed from Spennymoor Town after impressing against Consett in the Durham Challenge Cup. A nippy forward who can play anywhere across the front line, Riley had featured for Moors in last season's county cup final, and made the bench for several National League North games. Began this season dual registered with Northallerton Town, he signed for Consett on 26 October, making his debut as a sub at Newton Aycliffe the following night.

Tony Fawcett (Manager).

Tony was appointed manager on 8 November 2022 as successor to Andy Coyles. He had been at Northern League side Whickham since October 2021, leading them to a 7th-place finish in the 1st Division the previous season. Previously, he was joint manager at Whitley Bay, and manager at Ryton and Crawcrook Albion. Led Consett to a 13th-place finish last season.

Shoes of the People

Since what feels like the beginning of time a proportion of society have been blessed with the trait of being sartorially obsessed. I'm lucky enough to have been thrusted into that fraternity from the tender age of fourteen and it's something that I feel makes up every fibre of my being and effects many of my personality traits. I've always said it comes into the way you walk, talk and even the way you tie your shoelaces. I guess what I'm implying here is that clothing and style and above that, the way we carry and present ourselves is very, very important... For me, my clothing is my armour, it's my proverbial coat of arms and something which allows people to make judgements on me before I've even uttered a word, a very powerful tool don't you think? Beneath this very large umbrella lies the beginning of this obsession, the first love and the item of clothing I feel either makes or breaks your rig out, shoes...

Over the years many brands have come and gone but there's always been a few constants. One of the main players in this small, select group is "Clarks Originals" a brand that's been with me from day dot. Now don't get me wrong, in recent years they haven't been as prolific as they once were but among the many garish collabs there's still some class and sustenance there... When you get heavily into a brand and

DAVID POTTINGER

their ethos, it's very easy to want to buy lots of the product all at once and quickly become a bit of a brand whore. I had a period of time where I was buying 1/2 pairs of Clarks a month, and at one stage I amassed a collection somewhere in the 60's! Times have changed/moved on and I've become a little more mature so this buying habit no longer became sensible nor did the vast majority of designs appeal to me. Clarks were always there but I'd focus on buying 1/2 "Grail" pairs every 6 months as opposed to whatever I could get my hands on that I liked. Following this buying model, it prompted me to think of 4 pairs that I felt summed up both the brand's ethos perfectly and showcase that "Glory Years" period from around 2008-2013. I wrote a piece on this about 10 years ago when I started the site, so it'll be interesting to see the parallels.... if any. Here's 4 pairs of Clarks Originals that I feel have rode the choppy waves of time...

MOVE ON UP

DAVID POTTINGER

1. Clarks Originals "Oberon“

Where do you start with these?

Originally called "Polyveldt" and released way back in the 1970's the Oberon came onto the scene for A/W 11 and almost slipped under the radar like an enemy submarine. These are what me and the boys would describe as a "good boozing shoe" due to the fact they're a solid tan leather and can endure several post football spontaneous drinking sessions. They're one of those shoes that transcend the day into night cycle and have that dual purpose about them that goes beyond the realms of "Smart/Casual" Built on a solid sole and using the same last as the legendary Polyveldt the Oberon moved things forward into the 2010's, yet were still a pretty underground shoe from what I can remember at the time. You'd see other mobs of lads at the football and out of say 20 boys there'd be maybe 1/2 lads wearing these. Nine out of ten times you gave them a little nod just to let them know you knew what they were onto! Since those heady days the Oberon became much more of a cult shoe which is now incredibly sought after. I managed to bag a pair a couple of years ago and have been wearing them in times where most people's are worn out which gives mine a sort of individualist revival, I'll take that.

To read more…visit moveonupblog.co.uk

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: Belper Town

MOVE ON UP

Rise above it – The story of Stone Foundation

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THE UNTOLD GAME

Kubanisch Fussball

Bonner SC are perennial strugglers. They have spent almost their entire existence in the third and fourth tiers of German football, the kind of history that invokes a fierce loyalty from a small fanbase with little hope of glory. The club, like most in their position, try to make the most of even the merest opportunity to improve, no matter how seemingly absurd or questionable. In the aftermath of the 1998 World Cup, Brazil hosted a friendly game against the communist Caribbean nation of Cuba. Their players, all amateurs playing domestically, put up a fight against the new world champions, succumbing to a creditable 2-0 defeat. Bonner owner Hans-Robert Viol thought a few of them could add something to his struggling German side and made enquiries. He ended up with the entire squad.

Football had been popular in Cuba before Castro enacted his communist coup, but in the years following he focused his attention on the United States. They were strong in baseball and boxing, so Cuban athletic programmes were tailored to beat their large neighbours at their own games. Control of sport was centralised, and professionalism was banned. Any footballer who was good enough to receive a professional offer from abroad was required to reject it, or to defect and give up their chances of playing for

MARTYN GREEN

the national team. Cuba, as a footballing entity, suffered.

When Viol made his approach, he thought of signing a handful of Cuban players. But the government didn’t want to break up the squad, and demanded he take all 15 of them. The conditions were strict, but very welcome to a poor German lower league club. Food and accommodation were to be provided, and a little spending money, but under no circumstances were the players to be paid wages. Perfect for Viol.

The travelling party of 15 players was joined by a translator and a couple of coaches. Fans weren’t happy about what they saw as a publicity stunt, but neither the German football authorities or the EU could find anything technically wrong with the move. Viol repaid Cuba by sending football equipment across the Atlantic, and put his new players into a training camp. The best would join the first team, and the rest would

THE UNTOLD GAME

play for the reserves. For the Cubans, it was a chance to learn from European coaches at elite European facilities. Which might sound fanciful, in the German fourth tier, but the entire nation of Cuba had just 11 footballs, so it was a significant step up.

The Cubans played in two friendlies for the club, the first a 1-0 win and the second a draw. But the outcry within German football was growing too loud. Before they could make senior debuts, Franz-Josef Antwerpes, president of the district, cancelled their promised visas. But that didn’t spell the end of the entire Cuban project. A couple of players were able to earn visas conventionally, and stayed in the country. Two of them played out the season, which ended in relegation, while a third, Vladimir Alejo Cordoves, stayed for three seasons.

For Cuba, there was no immediate benefit. The 2002 World Cup qualifying campaign went worse than the 1998 campaign, despite a squad boasting all three of Bonner’s senior players, and a number that had made the journey. But eight years later, it would start to yield results.

When Cuba sacked another manager after another poor campaign, former Bonner coach Reinhold Fanz put in a phonecall to some of his Cuban contacts. Cuba

MARTYN GREEN

would have to repay the kindness Bonner had shown in the same wayaccommodation, food, and a little spending money - and Fanz agreed to take the team into the following campaign. He was bullish about his new side’s chances, declaring that while the USA and Mexico would take the first two qualification places, the third was up for grabs.

The draw couldn’t have been worse though. In a group with the USA and Trinidad & Tobago, who had qualified for the 2006 World Cup, and Guatemala, who had just missed out. Cuba put up a fight - the very quality that had started the entire German affair - but it wasn’t enough. They lost 3-1 at home to Trinidad, but the USA only struggled to a 1-0 win. Fanz claimed his side were the better in both games, but were held back by a lack of professionalism. He left his post in 2008.

In 2013 they heeded Fanz’ criticism. Cubans were allowed to sign professional contracts overseas, as long as they paid taxes on those salaries to the Cuban government.

A decade on, players are starting to make progress. Onel Hernandez of Norwich is perhaps the most successful, but there are Cuban players in Chile, Costa Rica, the USA, Spain, Austria and Switzerland. Maybe as World Cup campaign is finally coming to fruition. All thanks to a little German adventure.

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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

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.

UP TO N

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

02/03/24

13/04/24

20/04/24

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

(A) CARLTON TOWN NPL EAST

(A) WINTERTON RANGERS NPL EAST

(H) BELPER TOWN NPL EAST 30/03/24 (A) GRANTHAM TOWN NPL EAST

(H) LIVERSEDGE NPL EAST 06/04/24 (A) HEBBURN TOWN NPL EAST

16/03/24

23/03/24

01/04/24

(H) NORTH FERRIBY NPL EAST

BRIDLINGTON TOWN NPL EAST

(A)

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 Darryl Ombang 2 0 2 Alex Peterson 1 1 2 Jeremie Milambo 2 0 2 Leading Goalscorers Player League Cup Total Alex Peterson 7 3 10 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

27/04/24 (H)

2023/2024

TALE OF THE TAPE LEAGUE TABLE

FOOTBALL WEB PAGES

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE

Name: Aaron Hallam

Refereeing Journey: I started my refereeing career at the age of 14, 10 years ago, with the hope of enjoying another role in football while playing for my local junior team, Sheffield Rangers. At the age of 16, I began my promotion journey, and over the past decade, I achieved 5 promotions, leading me to my second season as a level 3 referee. I have recently received exciting news of a midseason promotion, commencing on February 1st, which will see me operate in the National League Premier and Premier League 2 as an assistant referee.

Among all the football grounds where I’ve refereed, Hillsborough Stadium remains my favourite.

Joe GREEN

Matthew BANCROFT

Callum HIDDLESTON

Fabian BAILEY

Jimmy BURKE

Harry COATES

Adam PRIESTLEY

James ANDERSON

Luke SPOOR

Cieran URE

Josh BAGGS

Ben RAMSEY

Arjun PUREWAL

SHIRTS: SKY BLUE

SHORTS: NAVY

SOCKS: NAVY

GK: ALL PINK

Dan CAPEWELL

Ben MILBURN

Ryan McKINNON

Harvey RUDD

Adam MITCHELL

Calvin SMITH

Kaleb YOUNG

Kieren APLIN

Jake ORRELL

Matty SLOCOMBE

Jack GIBBONS

Jack CAYGILL

Riley MOUAT

Wil SHAW

Zak ATKINSON

Scott FENWICK

SHIRTS: WHITE

SHORTS: WHITE

SOCKS: WHITE

MATCH OFFICIALS REFEREE AARON HALLAM AR2 JAMES GALLAGHER

AR1 THOMAS SMITH