North Ferriby - NPL East - 13.04.24

WELCOME TO INGFIELD

In the blink of an eye, once again another season is almost over. It is safe to say 2023/24 has not panned out as expected. Whilst there was no expectation of emulating Worksop Town’s title charge of last season, equally a second year looking over our shoulder was not expected either. Our future remains in our hands; spirits, confidence and belief remain high with the management and players that points will be won over the remaining five games.

Today we host North Ferriby and welcome back Tom Corner who was so instrumental in our inaugural season. It will be good to catch up with one of our County Cup winning heroes!

Speaking of the County Cup, it is with great sadness that we saw this

PHIL SMITH,CHAIRMAN

season’s semi-final between Pontefract Collieries and Wakefield abandoned this week following a medical emergency in the crowd.

Sadly Wakefield supporter Jakob Bregman sadly lost his life. Ossett United send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jakob. May he rest in peace.

Back to the game and yet again we need you to be our 12th man. Let’s get the points we need to survive.

Stronger Together.

Phil

I start these notes with a big thank you to all our supporters who made donations to the foodbank collection we held at our last home game. We have supported the local South Ossett resource centre twice a year since our formation back in 2018 and your kindness and generosity is much appreciated by the volunteers who run the centre. If anyone was unable to make a donation but would like to do so you can bring your contribution to the ground on the last day of the season when we entertain Cleethorpes Town and I will make sure that any items brought in will be delivered.

While on the subject of Ossett United’s charity partners can I make a plea to supporters to contribute if you can to either of our bar top charity boxes namely Cardiac Risk in the Young and/or the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. We empty the collection boxes at the end of the season and pass on the donations to the respective charities so if you are able to help anything you can afford will be much appreciated.

It was disappointing last Saturday when we travelled all the way up to Hebburn only for the match to be postponed barely an hour before the scheduled kick off. There have been some comments aiming criticism at the Hebburn Town club for not doing more to get the game on but I would just like to put the record straight and express Ossett United’s reaction.

Firstly there had been an unprecedented week of heavy rainfall leading up to the match but Hebburn worked on the playing surface from very early on the morning of the match in an attempt to get the game on. They arranged an inspection by a local referee at 9 o’clock which deemed the pitch 50/50 playable. There was another inspection carried out an hour later which also proved to be inconclusive.

Hebburn were now left with no alternative but to leave the final decision to the actual match referee. As we now know he decided that there was one particular area of the park unplayable and he duly called the game off. The Hebburn Officials were keen for the game to go ahead with us having travelled and expressed that opinion to the referee. Both club captains also agreed to the playing of the match. The postponement will cost

Hebburn Town dearly as they will, as per rule on such occasions, have to stump up a proportion of our expenses when we go up there again towards the back end of the season. Their Officials couldn’t have been more sympathetic to our situation and were quick to sympathise with our plight.

Another problem for the actual referee in this day and age was the possibility of a legal challenge if any player had suffered injury caused by the condition of the playing surface. Disappointing as the outcome was this I suppose had to be taken into consideration when the final decision was made.

With just 5 games now remaining for us this season today’s encounter with North Ferriby United assumes even more importance since both

the two clubs below us in the league table – Winterton Rangers and Grantham Town - are making a real fist of it in their fight for survival. On the positive side the relegation situation, though now a realistic possibility and a grave worry, is still within our own hands and we aren’t (yet!) relying on others to slip up.

Finally a warm welcome back to the Northern Premier League to North Ferriby United whose own problems over the last few years resulted in them having to do a stint in the Northern Counties East League. They are a quality club with first class facilities and they deserve to be at the higher level.

Neville

Good Afternoon to both sets of supporters and welcome to Ingfield.

Everything that has occurred over recent weeks and months I feel was summed up with travelling all the way to Newcastle for the game with Hebburn to be postponed less than a hour before kick off.

However, with just 5 games remaining everything good or bad that has gone before us means absolutely nothing and full focus has to be applied to what lays ahead. We as a group know what needs to be done and the sooner the better for everyone concerned.

North Ferriby have enjoyed a successful first season back to this level under the stewardship of Chris Bolder and Paul Robson. We look forward to the challenge in front of us this afternoon, fully determined to secure a much needed 3 points to add to our points tally.

Stronger Together. Brownie

5 huge games to go and we now, quite simply, have to start picking up points.

As has been mentioned in other columns, staying up is very much still in our own hands and the sooner we get 3 points the better.

HARRY COATES -CAPTAIN

As always, the lads and the management have been working hard during midweek training. Now is the time for us to implement this and take 3 valuable points.

We need the support of every single one of you on the terraces.

Get behind the lads.

Harry

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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.

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OSSETT UNITED OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER

BACKROOM 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

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.

SPONSORED BY THE HANKS FAMILY

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.

SPONSORED BY JAMES & DAWN ROGERS

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.

SPONSORED BY RICH CALLAGHAN

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.

SPONSORED BY PAUL COOPER

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.

SPONSORED BY THE ADAMSON FAMILY

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.

SPONSORED BY PAUL COOPER

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.

SPONSORED BY KEITH & KATH WOOD

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.

SPONSORED BY MOZ & MARV

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.

SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

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

North Ferriby: A History

Although there’s evidence that football had been played within the village since the turn of the century, it’s not until after the great war we can establish for certain that North Ferriby Football Club had been formed.

Sadly, there’s no record of how the club started, most likely an informal meeting of like-minded gents in a smoke-filled corner of the local pub. The first published record is of participation in the East Riding Intermediate Cup on November 6, 1919. A further Hull Daily Mail report in January 1920 revealed North Ferriby had played consecutive fixtures on Christmas Day (won 8-2), Boxing Day (won 3-2) and December 27 (won 2-0).

An auspicious start for the club and perhaps a precedent for future success, although one doubts that teams nowadays would, or even could play three in three. One of the earliest successes was in reaching the final of the South Howdenshire Cup in 1921 against Howden.

The game was played at Howden in front of a crowd of 1,500, an “unprecedented assemblage including a large number of Ferriby supporters” according to the HDM, who further reported that each set of fans were “gaily bedecked with their club’s colors”. Unfortunately, Harry Thomas, the Ferriby captain, had to be satisfied with a runners-up medal as the team eventually went down 2-1 having finished the game with just tem men following the loss of scorer Arthur Kirby through injury at half time. No substitutes in those days.

On April 28, 1923 North Ferriby hosted the final of the South Howdenshire Cup between Melton and Willerby. One can start to imagine the immense pride of the clubs committee and volunteers as they busily prepared their pitch on the outskirts of the village.

Fast forward to January 2020 and Ferriby stalwarts are again filled with pride as news was broken their Dransfield Stadium has been nominated to host an England U18 International against Scotland on Thursday, April 9. Who would have thought that might be possible for a tiny village back in the day.

No one’s certain what happened to North Ferriby FC during the early 1930’s, but in 1934 the second element of this incredible trilogy began

THE OPPOSITION

with the formation of North Ferriby United, a village club extraordinaire.

In their very first season, NFU were runners up in the East Riding Church League Division One, but also went on to win the League Cup in that inaugural season. Astonishingly, by the time of its demise in March 2019, NFU had achieved no less than 64 major honors, including eight promotions and appearances in both National Stadiums.

The first Wembley visit was in the 1997 FA Vase Final when the team went down to a strong Whitby Town side in the shadow of those famous white towers, but that disappointment was put firmly behind supporters when in 2015 North Ferriby completed the giant killing of giant killings by overcoming “full time” Wrexham in the final of the FA Trophy beneath the iconic arc of the new Wembley Stadium.

Between 1934 and 1954 football was played on several sites within the village. Humber Road, Corby Park and Pickerings Field are all listed locations. Significantly, in 1954 Sir Arthur Atkinson stated at the opening ceremony that it was very rare for a Village to have “such splendid facilities”. The clubs then committee and volunteers had acquired unwanted bricks from a disused building and constructed in their own time and at their own expense a brick pavilion. So good was the quality of construction, the building is still in situ and used by the cricket club today.

But the urge to progress was like a baton being passed on and on and by 1969 the need to move again had been determined after club officials decided the best way forward lay within the wider bigger world of the then Yorkshire League. To meet requirements, a new pitch was needed and so eyes turned to a veritable wilderness that lay between the playing field and the railway. An area of land originally designated for allotments after the Second World War, but subsequently laid unused.

The local Parish Council were approached and the outcome was the granting of a lease, the proceeds of which would support the Parish’s obligations for maintenance of the playing fields. A win win all round and an enduring arrangement still in existence today, albeit at a significantly higher contributory level from the football club.

The jungle was levelled, the access track (now Grange Lane) was improved, a car park dug-out and covered. Two condemned pre-fabs

THE OPPOSITION

were acquired from Beverley Borough Council and daily sweepings of cement were taken from Earls Cement. Finally, posts and rails were bought for £40 from Hull Brunswick and the foundations of the now Dransfield Stadium had begun.

Unfortunately, the club couldn’t afford to connect drains to the main sewer that lay 400 meters away under Church Road, so a cesspit was dug inside the ground under the entrance car park. When the day came for the big opening a large crowd gathered to witness arrival of the first Tetley delivery. The dray wagon swept majestically into the ground and immediately collapsed into the cesspit where it remained for several days until a JCB eventually pulled it out. It has been said many times, there’s an easy way, a hard way and then the Ferriby way.

Following a progressive building programme lasting over 20 years between 1994 and 2014, all necessary to keep pace with ground requirements associated to progress on the pitch, the now Dransfield Stadium has developed beyond comprehension to those early days. But not before the third and final part of this trilogy would emerge.

In March 2019 the unthinkable happened. After a three year decline in fortunes, two relegations and irresponsible financial management, North Ferriby United was wound up in the Hull courts. Gone forever. Or so was thought. On 1 April 2019, yes April Fools Day, North Ferriby Football Club rose from the ashes like a phoenix. Within six short months 18 teams had been formed. Men, women and nearly 200 children all brought together to once again ensure the great Ferriby tradition continues.

After two COVID hit seasons in the Northern Counties East League Division 1 North Ferriby were promoted to the NCEL Premier Division via the play offs. After finishing runners up in the League they beat Rossington Main and Harrogate Railway to secure promotion.

The 2022-23 season got off to a disastrous start with five goalkeepers having to be used for various reasons within the first four weeks. Furthermore, quick fire exits from the FA Cup and FA Vase ensured the Club could now literally ‘concentrate on the League’. And how well did that turn out! The club went on to win the League by a whopping 14 points and secure back-to-back promotions for the first time in club history. A club from North Ferriby are back in The Northern Premier League for the first time since March 2019!

THE OPPOSITION

Tom Jackson – Goalkeeper

Tom an agile and commanding keeper join North Ferriby from Belper Town in the summer of 2023. Tom’s former clubs include Bridlington Town Frickley Athletic, Gainsborough Trinity and Cleethorpes Town.

Jordan Douglas - Goalkeeper

Jordan is a young keeper having experience National Conference football with North Ferriby United. Dougie is an excellent penalty stopper who has played for Bottesford Town and Hall Road Rangers..

Lewis Exall - Goalkeeper

Lewis is an experienced and talented goalkeeper, former North Ferriby United Player of the Year. Lewis’s previous clubs include Cleethorpes Town, North Ferriby United plus Westella and Willerby.

Niall Tilsley - Defender

Niall is the absolute rock at the centre of the North Ferriby defence. As Club Captain provides a strong leadership and experience plus provides important goals to the team. An invaluable member of Chris Bolder’s squad. Tillo previously played over 200 games for Pickering Town.

Josh Morrall - Defender

Josh began his career at Grimsby Town with spells at Hyde, Coalville, Shepshed following. Josh joined the Villagers last season from Skegness Town and immediately made the left back position his own.

Jack Johnson - Defender

Jack joins the Villagers in the summer of 2023 from Tadcaster Albion. Jack can play centre back or holding midfield his previous clubs include Scarborough Athletic and Pickering Town.

Levi Tarbotton - Defender

Levi a former England Schools captain joined North Ferriby in 2019 from Barton Town. Levi can play either centre half or full back. Additionally Levi can play a midfield role. For the last two summers Levi has played football in Australia.

Harry Wallis - Defender

A product of Hull City Academy joining North Ferriby in the Autumn, Harry can play left back or in a midfield role.

THE OPPOSITION

Dom Roma - Defender

Dom is an experienced footballer and coach. Dom started his career in 2004 at home town club Sheffield United and had loan spells at Boston United, Hinckley United and Tamworth. In 2007 he joined Hinckley permanently before having spells with Alfreton Town and Harrogate Town. In 2011 Dom joined Gainsborough Trinity for whom he went on to play over 207 games including a spell in 2016 as manager. Between 2017 and 2024 Dom played over 200 games for Basford United. In January 2024 Dom joined North Ferriby to bring his knowledge and experience to the club.

Amir Berchil - Midfielder

Amir is a pacy tricky attacking midfield player with an eye for a spectacular goal. Amir joined North Ferriby last December from Thackley. His previous clubs include Nostell Miners Welfare, Yorkshire Amateur and Albion Sports.

Danny Emerton - Midfielder

Danny is a midfielder who can be deadly in any attacking position due to his unpredictability and coverage of the pitch. Emmo’s former clubs include Hull City, IK Frej, Northampton Town, Alfreton Town and North Ferriby United.

Louis Kirk - Midfielder

Kirky is an important part of Chris Bolder’s squad who likes to play in front of the back four. Previous clubs include Goole AFC, Bridlington Town, Barton Town and North Ferriby United.

Joel Shortland - Midfielder

Joel plays in the centre of midfield, comfortable on the ball, creating something out of nothing as well winning the ball back for his team. Joel has previously played for Winterton Rangers and Orlando City.

Adam Bolder - Midfielder

The elder brother of manager Chris, Adam is the senior player at the Club and member of the North Ferriby United FA Trophy winning side of 2015 along with Danny Clarke. Adam began is professional career as an 18year-old at Hull City. Transfers to Derby County, Queens Park Rangers, Sheffield Wednesday (on loan), Millwall, Bradford City (on loan) Burton Albion, Harrogate Town, North Ferriby United and Scarborough Athletic. Adam is a cultured footballer still able to play a pinpoint cross field pass!

THE OPPOSITION

Harry Lovick - Midfielder

Former Hull City Academy player was released last summer and has previously played for Gainsborough Trinity and Grantham Town (on loan) this season.

McCauley Snelgrove - Midfielder

Former Hull City Academy player has also previously played on a season long loan with Crusaders and Gainsborough Trinity.

Danny Earl - Forward

Danny is a tricky pacy striker who is equally at home playing down the middle or out wide. His previous clubs include Bridlington Town, Pickering Town and Hall Road Rangers. Danny has also played Representative football for the Armed Forces team.

Tom Corner - Forward

Tom brings a wealth of experience to the club via his spells at North Ferriby United, Pontefract Collieries, Tadcaster Albion, Ossett Albion, Ossett United, Scarborough Athletic, Grimsby Town and Bradford Park Avenue plus a spell in Spain with Racing Valladolid. Tom is an excellent header of the ball and is an important part of the goal scorers for the Villagers.

Danny East - Forward

An attacking midfielder previously playing for Hull City, Northampton Town, Gillingham, Portsmouth, Aldershot, Grimsby Town, Guiseley and Alfreton Town offer The Villagers a wealth of experience from a football league career cut short by injuries.

Luke Hinsley - Forward

Luke is an experienced centre forward having played in his career for Grantham Town, Cleethorpes Town, Pontefract Collieries, Tadcaster Albion, Sheffield FC, Frickley Athletic, Buxton, Matlock Town, Goole and Harrogate Railway. Luke briefly played for North Ferriby United in the 2018/2019 season in the Northern Premier League.

Josh Whiteley - Forward

Josh is a athletic forward who can play wide or through the middle beginning his career at Ossett Town before spells at Nostell Miners and Glasshoughton Welfare from who he joined North Ferriby. Last summer Josh played for Caroline Springs George Cross out in Australia.

THE OPPOSITION

Danny Clarke - Forward

Danny is an experienced player who can either play in midfield or lead the attack. Danny’s former clubs include Alfreton Town, FC Halifax Town, North Ferriby United, Frickley Athletic, Winterton Rangers and Hull United.

Chris Bolder - Manager

Chris is in his second spell as Manager of North Ferriby having previously managed The Villagers in the 2017-2018 season. When North Ferriby reformed in April 2019 Chris led The Villagers through two COVID hit seasons however in the last two seasons has led North Ferriby to back-toback promotions. Chris as a former midfield player had spells at Grimsby Borough, Ossett Town, North Ferriby United, Guiseley and Scarborough Athletic.

Paul Robson – Assistant Manager

Paul as his career drew to an end had Assistant Manager roles at Brigg Town, Barton Town and North Ferriby United before joining his former team Chris Bolder as North Ferriby Assistant Manager in April 2019. Paul as a defender includes Charlton Athletic, Bridlington Town, Long Island Rough Raiders, Crystal Palace Baltimore, Newport County, Lincoln City, North Ferriby United, Scarborough Athletic and Barton Town in his long-playing career.

Percival Menswear: A True Modernist Aesthetic

One brand that has rose to prominence (and rightly so) in recent years is Percival and these guys are already in the same bracket as the aforementioned kings of current modernism. Percival just get it RIGHT! From the off, when looking at their range you can see immediately that the crafting of the clothing comes first. They're not cutting corners on fabrics, design or longevity in their garments. They're taking silhouettes that have been around the block and are giving them a new lease of life in the form of clothing that is functional, smart and that goes hand in hand with the fast-paced lifestyle of the 20 something, style conscious male of 2022.

A few months ago, I caught up with my pals Alfie and Greg who were running a Percival pop-up in Newcastle. I got myself down, picked a few pieces out and had a good chat with the fellas about all things menswear. This was the first time I'd got to see the SS Percival stuff up close and as always the lines looked a million miles away from the dozens of more obvious, lazy labels on the highstreet at the moment. Here's what I had to say about the bits I picked out...

Waterproof Workshirt

Cut in a slightly wider fit than most overhshirts you'll see, the 'Waterproof Workshirt' is effortless yet simple and stands out a fucking mile. Its neat, tidy silhouette gives the wearer that sartorial elegance over the ever-changing competition on the terraces. A shirt/jacket hybrid that's one of the most versatile pieces I've ever owned (and I've owned a lot of gear over the last 14 years or so). Cut in a waterproof, bonded but breathable, Italian fabric then constructed in the capital, this is a jacket that is cut of the very highest cloth and quality. A serious sense of craftsmanship comes into play to make garments of this calibre and I've had various clothes horses comment on the durability, fit, finish and just general look of this stunning bit of kit. With taped seams throughout the inner this is a jacket that will stand the test of time when many other brands will inevitably fall by the wayside.

Waterproof Sherlock

Another classic and an absolute staple in the Percival artillery of fine menswear the 'Waterproof Sherlock' brings A' Paris distinction forward to 2022. A waterproof trench that Percival have perfected over 7 seasons this is one of the finest jackets I've owned. Extremely subtle lines and details are created here and turn heads on the long walk from the entrance of your local public house to the front of the bar queue. An extremely functional piece the Sherlock is weatherproof, windproof and breathable all while looking the dogs! It looks great in the colder months accompanied with a Burberry Nova Check or Daks House Check scarf and sets the standard for that perfect mid length mac that you've always craved. The length is perfect and doesn't drown even the smaller gentleman like myself. I've worn mine with bass, clarks, trainers and even Converse and every look works. Hey it's even been worn by Gareth Southgate and it can't be easy looking that good when under pressure. I copped the midnight with the olive lining that just pops!

Check out the full Percival artillery here.

https://www.percivalclo.com/

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: Cleethorpes Town The Bullit by Delicious Junction

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The First World Champions

Upton Park is inextricably linked to the Olympics. Mention the old ground to any West Ham fan and you’ll likely be met with a wistful look of nostalgic remembrance, glorious memories lost to the relentless march of property speculation in the capital. A move to the London Stadium following the 2012 Olympics may have made business sense, but to fans, it made little football sense, and there is still a sense of mourning for the history that was abandoned. But they are not the first side from the area to have their history connected to the Olympics. In 1900, when football was making its debut at the hallowed international exhibition of sporting excellence, the FA needed a team to represent the nation. They turned to the amateur side from London; Upton Park.

Upton Park were formed in 1866 as an amateur side, a status they fiercely maintained and one that gave them a ticket to the Olympics in Paris some three and a half decades later. They were participants in the first FA Cup in the 1871-2 season, and conceded the very first goal scored in the competition, at their coincidentally named West Ham Park ground, a strike from Jarvis Kenrick that gave Clapham a 3-0 win. The club

regularly attracted impressive crowds to their games, and have been cited as a possible influence in Thames Ironworks, who would become West Ham United, moving to the area.

Despite their amateur status, Upton Park would be one of the key drivers of the professionalisation of English football, following an FA Cup tie in 1884. The club made a complaint to the FA about possible illegal payments to players by their opponents Preston North End. They were thrown out of the competition, but the FA were forced to confront the issue, and when the illegally professional clubs threatened to break away and form their own league, the legislators relented.

Despite being wound up in 1887, the club were reformed in 1891 and were founder members of the Southern Alliance, a league system that was set up for clubs in southern England, the most notable of which was Tottenham Hotspur (Arsenal

were banned from the competition having recently professionalised).

Upton Park finished the first season bottom of the league, but more concerning was the general failure of the competition. The Southern Alliance was wound up after that single season, with clubs having to find their places in other leagues.

And so, having spent most of their time bouncing around amateur football with limited success, it was something of a surprise when the FA asked Upton Park to represent the nation at the 1900 Olympics. The squad would comprise of the players registered to the club, with the addition of William Gosling from Chelmsford City (who had beaten Upton Park 7-1 that season), Alfred Chalk from Ilford, Jack Zeally from Bridport, and Richard Turner from the excellently named Crouch End Vampires. With the squad sorted, the team made the relatively short journey to Paris.

Only four teams entered the football competition, Upton Park, a representative XI from France, a Swiss team, and a group of students from Belgium that included one Englishman (Eric Thornton) and a Dutchman, and who were only there because Racing Brussels had pulled out. Before the tournament started, the Swiss team also withdrew, leaving just the three

sides.

The slightly chaotic nature of these Olympics meant that Upton Park had to play just one game, against the French XI (who also had to play the side from Belgium, in the Belgian’s only fixture). Although no medals were awarded, the International Olympic Committee have attempted to reconcile the early competition with our modern competition, and have designated the game between Upton Park and the French XI as the ‘gold medal’ match.

Upton Park raced into a two goal lead, John Nicholas and Richard Turner with the early goals. They then sought to control the game, slowing down the play due to the hot weather. Gosling went off injured in the second half, but the British side couldn’t be contained, and Nicholas got a third before Zealley completed the rout.

Despite not getting medals in the Olympics themselves, the FA awarded them commemorative medals at the end of the season.

Upton Park were reformed in 2016, and played the final game at West Ham’s old ground, against Royal Engineers. Most of all, though, they are remembered as the first World Champions.

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.

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

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.

TALE OF THE TAPE

TALE OF THE TAPE

TALE OF THE TAPE

Joe GREEN

Callum HIDDLESTON

Jimmy BURKE

Harry COATES

Adam WATSON

Jacob McLOUGHLIN

Shane KILLOCK

Corey GREGORY

Rafa FERREIRA

Derry ROBSON

Janni LIPKA

Sam TINGLE

Stafford CLARK

Tom CLAISSE

TJ IBRAHIM

Niah PAYNE

Desmond AMPONSAH

Sam KELLY

Alex PETERSON

Adam PRIESTLEY

Tom JACKSON

Jordan DOUGLAS

Lewis EXALL

Niall TILSLEY

Josh MORALL

Jack JOSHNSON

Levi TARBOTTON

Harry WALLIS

Dom ROMA

Amir BERCHIL

Danny EMERTON

Louis KIRK

Joel SHORTLAND

Adam BOLDER

McCauley SNELGROVE

Harry LOVICK

Danny EARL

Tom CORNER

Luke HINSLEY

Danny EAST

Danny CLARKE

Josh WHITELEY

SHIRTS: SKY BLUE

SHORTS: NAVY

SOCKS: NAVY

GK: ALL GREEN