allotment
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14
back to the big time? the staying power of celtic’s pre2011 trio - and the possible just rewards
Match Sponsor
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brandon united NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO SATURDAY 29TH MARCH 2014
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welcome 16
Club Officials
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President Chairman Vice-Chairman Secretary Treasurer Commercial
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contents
Committee
the history
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the squad
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the backroom staff
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the last match
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the last meeting
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the preview
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the visitors
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back to the big time?
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the letter draw
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the onion bag
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on this day
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the player statistics
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fixtures, results, table
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rottweiler’s notes
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the squads
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Press Officer Photographer
Alex Smailes Roland Mather Jimmy Wilson Ted Ilderton John Alexander Jonny Thompson David Dodds Paul Mason Above, plus Al Liddle,Michael Wilson, Les Scott, Kath Orr, Harry Bell, Stephen Allott, Richie Marks Craig Dobson Graeme Jackson
Backroom Staff Manager Assistant Manager First Team Coach Physio
Paul Stoneman Wilf Kielty Paul Hogg Charlotte Ferguson
Selected Club Honours Northern Alliance champions
1987, 1991, 1992, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004 Northern League D2 champions 2005 NFA Amateur Cup winners 1957, 1975 NFA Benevolent Bowl winners 1993 Craven Cup winners 2005 Ernest Armstrong Mem. Cup winners 2013
eighty-five Stephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour
from creation to contenders
...and the decade of decline
West Allotment Celtic were formed in 1928, the culmination of a merger between West Allotment Primitive Methodists and West Allotment Juniors. After moving to the newly-created Tynemouth & District League in 1935, the club began to grow in stature. The club had to face Whitley Bay & Monkseaton Reserves in a play-off for the title, but unfortunately, the decider went the way of the seasiders. Remarkably, Allotment also finished in a play-off position in the following two seasons – and, in both cases, had to settle for a runner-up spot.
The sixties started promisingly enough, as Allotment looked to build on their previous successes. The club finished as runners-up in the Northern Amateur League in 1960, and were consecutive Minor Cup finalists in 1960 and 1961.
changing leagues, sheds and times In 1938, the club joined the Second Division of the Northern Amateur League. Now playing at the aptly-named Farm Ground, fans helped to dismantle a cowshed in Heaton and move it, piece by piece, to West Allotment, where it was reassembled at the ground. The shed was not for spectators – it served as the players’ changing facilities! The club earned instant promotion (after a play-off, such is club tradition), but World War II put a stop to any further progress.
a succession of successes... The club recommenced operations in 1946/47 and enjoyed an unprecedented run of success from the mid-fifties onwards. Allotment won the championship for four consecutive seasons between 1956 and 1960, along with the NFA Amateur Cup in 1957 and the NFA Minor Cup in 1958.
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West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
However, whilst Celtic remained loyal to the Northern Amateur League, the bulk of the team moved on, and Allotment entered a period of decline as a result. The club stagnated badly during the sixties in an uncompetitive league, and closure become a distinctly worrying possibility. The threat of dissolution was eventually staved off by the introduction of new blood into the club towards the end of the decade, as Allotment finally began to build towards a more positive future on and off the pitch. Celtic also moved to Backworth Welfare in 1968, consigning the ponds and mud of the Farm Ground to memory.
champions at long last A rejuvenated West Allotment won the NFA Amateur Cup again in 1975, largely thanks to the goalscoring exploits of Benny Williams,
years in the making of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations... who averaged almost one goal a game in his 400 appearances for the club. Williams was ably supported by a talented and hungry squad, and, with strength in depth, Allotment were always considered title contenders. However, the championship remained tantalisingly out of reach until yet another play-off tie in 1982. Allotment finally won the coveted title, defeating Annitsford Welfare by the odd goal in seven.
Alliance titles, never finishing lower than sixth. Terry Mitchell and Brian Latty built upon Ken Scott and Billy Hays’ consecutive Alliance league titles, leading Allotment into the Northern League.
the modern day
When Celtic retained the title with relative ease the following season, the decision was taken to move up a tier for the first time since 1938.
Having acted as tenants at Hillheads in Whitley Bay since 1995, the club set out to find a new home, and found it in Benton. In 2001, the club moved to Whitley Park, also known as the Blue Flames Sports Ground. The ground is well-known as one of the best kept pitches in the Northern League, and also serves as the headquarters of the Northumberland FA.
the colossus of the alliance In 1983, Allotment made its debut in both the Northern Alliance and the FA Vase. The first honour of the period arrived just one season later, as Allotment dispatched Ponteland United in the Alliance Challenge Cup Final. This success was followed up two seasons later by the first of Celtic’s eight Alliance titles. In 1987, West Allotment emerged victorious from two nail-biting play-off games against Gosforth St. Nicholas, ushering in a wave of success not enjoyed at the club since the fifties. Throughout this period, Celtic won seven further Northern
The club earned promotion from Division Two as champions, losing just twice throughout the entire 2004/05 season. After six seasons of holding their own against the Northern League’s top tier, Allotment slipped back down a league. The current crop have gone some way to restoring success at Allotment, winning the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup last May, and will be aiming for those promotion places this season. the history
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the squad
Chris Bannon GK Age: 26 Formerly of Washington and Hebburn Town, popular and reliable ‘keeper Chris returns to Allotment for a second stint between the sticks, and will jostle with Ryan Beal for the number one jersey.
Glenn Ford CB Age: 29 Glenn rejoined the club during the 2012/13 season, making a handful of solid appearances. Having committed for this coming season, fans can expect to see much more of Glenn and his defensive abilities.
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Ryan Beal GK Age: 25 An excellent shot stopper, Ryan featured extensively in last season’s cup-winning campaign, and will look to consolidate his place with similarly strong performances this season.
GK Chris Bannon GK Ryan Beal GK Bob Rodgerson GK Jack Thompson
CB Simon Wilthew CB Glenn Ford CB Stephen Little CB Paul Stoneman RB John Pendlebury
Bob Rodgerson Stephen Little GK Age: 31 CB Age: 26 A Percy Main Amateurs The ex-Annfield Plain regular, Bob performed and Killingworth stopper admirably when filling shone at the back for in during a goalkeeping Allotment last season, crisis towards the back putting in a series of end of last season, and superlative defensive has registered once again showings, earning the to be our third choice Player’s Player of the Year ‘keeper. Award in the process.
Simon Wilthew John Pendlebury Chris Douglas CB Age: 25 RB Age: 27 RB Age: 29 Simon featured 15 times A first-team regular since The ultimate utility player, at the back for Allotment signing for Allotment Chris can be employed last season. Strong at from Ryton in 2010, anywhere down either centre-half and adept at John’s relentless work flank to devastating left-back, the Monkseaton ethic and tenacious effect. The former North defender will be looking tackling bring stability Shields man’s pace and to build on his impressive to the back four. The perception underpins his debut in the Northern full-back often serves as undoubted ability, be it League. captain in the absence of as a full-back or a wide Ian Dunn. midfielder.
West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
RB Chris Douglas LB Marc Dummett CM David Borley CM Roy Gordon CM Ian Dunn
CM Marc Allen CM David Henderson CM Michael Bell CM Sean Reid RM Kallum McGlen
Marc Dummett LB Age: 26 The former Ponteland United and Dunston fullback has proven to be an asset to the club in both defence and attack. His crossing ability in both regular play and from set-pieces is second to none.
Roy Gordon CM Age: 31 Roy rejoins Celtic for a second spell, having last played for the club during the 2011/12 season. Able to play in a number of positions, the experienced utility man has also turned out for North Shields, Consett and Annfield Plain.
Michael Bell CM Age: 22 Brimming with potential, “Belly” won the Under-19 National Schools Cup with Northumberland and has also represented Ryton. Bell is unbeatable in the air, and can also operate on the wing and as a supporting striker.
RM Tony Lancaster LM Paul Chapman LM Dean Lee LM Connor Graham ST Lawrence McKenna
ST Liam Hudson ST David Dormand ST Jed Findlay ST Rob Nolan
David Borley David Henderson CM Age: 30 CM Age: 31 Central midfielder David David Henderson turned out for Bury in rejoined the club last his youth, and the football season, and the former coach has gone on to North Shields schemer represent the likes of provides another option Bedlington Terriers, going forward through Hebburn Town and the middle. Henders Jarrow Roofing in the is arguably one of the Northern League. A most skilful players in the dynamic playmaker. squad.
Ian Dunn Marc Allen Sean Reid CM Age: 31 CM Age: 26 CM Age: 21 Long-serving, tough Marc previously turned Rangy, pacy and tackling midfielder Dunn out for Whitley Bay technically gifted, Sean has grafted tirelessly Reserves, but has can play as a roaming for three years at West become a mainstay in the central midfielder, a Allotment, earning the Celtic squad. His astute dangerous centrecaptain’s armband in the passing, ball retention forward, or even an adept process. “Dunny” remains skills and battling tenacity centre-back. The former one of Celtic’s key men are evident whenever he Ryton forward is one of deep in the heart of is called upon in central Celtic’s most promising midfield. midfield. attacking outlets.
the squad
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the squad
Kallum McGlen RM Age: 21 A former Montagu & North Fenham favourite, Kallum features on the right hand side of midfield, where his energy and technique often causes problems for opposing full-backs.
Liam Hudson ST Age: 25
Tony Lancaster RM Age: 28
Dean Lee LM Age: 30
David Dormand ST Age: 25
Signed from Wark in March 2011. Tony struggled with injuries last term, but will hope to be back to his pacy, dangerous best this season. Tony can also operate as a wholly competent right-back.
A winger with the scoring nous of a striker, the former North Shields man has all of the tools required to strike fear into the hearts of defenders. One of Celtic’s most prolific threats going forward.
David’s prolific record precedes him, and the former Morpeth forward has already replicated his goalscoring form since joining Celtic, topping the charts with 30 goals. A clinical poacher and a hard worker up front.
Lawrence McKenna ST Age: 25
Jed Findlay ST Age: 24
Another former Ryton Lawrence is wellforward, army soldier travelled, having topped Liam is capable of the scoring charts for pressuring his opposite Whickham, before going numbers into submission on to play for Bedlington with his strength and high Terriers and Newcastle work rate. “Hud” can Benfield. Is known to be also be deployed on the a deadly finisher in the right wing. division.
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West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
Rob Nolan ST Age: 24 Signed from Cramlington Rob scored 30 goals for North Shields before Town last February, Jed earning his big move to is a promising forward with plenty of attacking Blyth Spartans, and after brief spells at Whitley potential. Having made a Bay and Bedlington, the handful of appearances last season, the striker clinical forward is looking to once again make his will be hoping to get mark upon Division Two. more game time this campaign.
the squad
the backroom staff
Paul Stoneman Player/Manager
Wilf Kielty Assistant Manager
Paul Hogg First Team Coach
Charlotte Ferguson Physiotherapist
The stalwart centre-half has played for Blackpool, Colchester United and Halifax Town. Despite turning 40 last year, ‘Stona’ was ever-present last season, remaining unbeatable in the air and impervious in the tackle.
Right-hand man Wilf has been around the local non-league scene for many years, both as a player and in a management role, giving notable service to North Shields as manager for several seasons.
The UEFA-licensed coach is held in very high regard at North Shields, having played, coached and managed there for over a decade. Paul has also managed Annfield Plain, and is working with the Newcastle United Foundation.
Charlotte is in her final year of her Physiotherapy studies at Northumbria University, and is currently on her final placement at the RVI. She is also a qualified sports masseur.
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Paul Stoneman the backroom staff
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the last match
26TH MARCH 2014 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WEST TERRACES
Esh Winning 1 West Allotment Celtic 3
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VASTLY improved second half performance saw West Allotment Celtic triumph in County Durham, defeating Esh Winning 3-1 at West Terraces on Tuesday evening. A superbly taken brace from Sean Reid came either side of an instinctive finish from Tony Lancaster, consolidating Allotment’s position behind North Shields in second place. The relegation-threatened hosts shrugged off the intermittent rain that had drenched Westhouses throughout the afternoon, almost taking the lead within minutes of kick-off. Ryan Burton was played in behind a static defence, who erroneously
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believed the winger to be offside. Through on goal, Burton squared for his right wing counterpart for an easy tap in - but Luke Wilson had strayed offside in the process. Allotment could not take advantage of the let-off in a well-matched first half, with neither side able to replicate their assured passing sequences in their opponents’ final thirds. David Dormand looked the most likely to break the deadlock for the visitors, flicking a header inches wide of goal, and charging down Thomas Orton’s attempted clearance, only for the ball to break kindly for the ‘keeper. After Michael Bell and Stephen Little both saw efforts comfortably saved, Dormand threatened again,
West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
challenging Orton in the air as they contested a deep ball towards goal. Though Dormand did put the ball in the back of the net after it was spilled, it had already crossed the byline before coming back in play. Deservedly on level terms with their disciplined adversaries going into the break, Allotment emerged looking far stronger for the second half. Sean Reid saw a trademark free kick tipped away low down by Orton, whilst Bell and Dormand both missed the target - the latter by mere inches with a well-struck snapshot. Despite their second half subordination, Esh almost took the lead as the hour mark approached. Wilson was
allowed ample room on the right, but dragged his shot wide of the mark. The Stags would rue the miss, as Celtic took the lead five minutes later. Hudson’s clipped delivery was cushioned on the chest by Reid, who turned to crash a halfvolley high into the net.
...in pictures
A second was forthcoming, and it was a gift courtesy of Esh’s backline. A shocking backpass was intercepted by the alert Tony Lancaster, who steadied himself to place a shot over Orton and into the top bin. The County Durham outfit looked beaten, but an unlikely twist guaranteed a nervy finale. A goalbound shot from Steven Parnaby took a wicked close-range deflection off player-manager Paul Stoneman, bobbling past the helpless Ryan Beal. Fortunately, any jangling nerves were soon allayed by the third and final goal of the evening. Substitute David Henderson was heavily involved, a one-two with Reid allowing the latter to surge to the edge of the area and slide the ball into the bottom corner. The playmaker almost added to his brace in injury time, a cheeky attempt from the halfway line easily dealt with by the backpedalling Orton, but the 21-year-old had already done enough to secure the win - and a massive three points for the Tyneside visitors. the last match
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the last meeting
2ND NOVEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO THE WELFARE GROUND
Brandon United 1 West Allotment Celtic 2
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LAST-GASP strike from West Allotment Celtic’s Sean Reid sealed all three points for the visitors at a thoroughly wet and windy Brandon United. The intermittently dreadful conditions in County Durham turned the Saturday afternoon contest into a predictably scrappy affair – but not before both sides got on the scoresheet. Allotment were the first to strike, taking the lead within one minute of kick-off. Liam Hudson’s cross slipped past the waiting Lawrence McKenna and his marker, but Michael Bell ghosted in from the right to stroke the ball first-time into the far corner. Though the visiting side looked entirely at ease with their
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surroundings in the opening minutes, United soon struck back. With McKenna on the touchline receiving treatment on the sideline, ten-man Celtic twice failed to sufficiently clear a corner, the ball breaking kindly into the direction of Alex Wilson, whose low finish levelled the scores. West Allotment continued to press, Ian Dunn mere inches away from making strong contact on a Sean Reid delivery, and Hudson forcing ‘keeper Andrew Wilkinson to tip his curling effort around the post. Attacking midfielder Reid had three chances of his own as the rain came pouring down at the Welfare Ground, seeing two shots blocked by a deeply set Brandon defence, and scuffing another effort wide.
West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
Brandon were largely restricted to attacks on the break, but much like Allotment, their forwards were denied by some fine last-ditch defending. Mark Brischuk got a rare sight of Bob Rodgerson’s goal, but a deflection took his strike past the post, but their biggest chance of the game was as scrappy as the game itself. A deep corner initiated a desperate scramble in Celtic’s penalty area, where Marc Dummett hacked the ball from the line with his goalkeeper beaten. Handed a reprieve by their returning full-back, Allotment went on to fashion a giltedged chance of their own. Bell and Hudson constantly probed down both flanks throughout the first half, and
The match report from an early November trip to the Welfare Ground, where West Allotment Celtic faced off against Brandon United and their twelfth man - the predictably stormy County Durham elements! this time, it was the latter who caused chaos deep in Brandon territory, staving off the challenges of three defenders and floating the ball into the six yard box. Bell’s header back across goal should have been converted by McKenna, but the striker scooped his volley over from close range. Allotment’s domination was near total after the interval, but the away side failed to put it together in the final third, with the lion’s share of the chances being created – and spurned – by Hudson on the left wing. The powerful 25-year-old shot wide on a number of occasions after cutting inside, and when he did find the target, Wilkinson was there to keep out his effort at the near post. Wilkinson was finally beaten by the converted target man – only for his rising strike to cannon back off the crossbar. A tame Alex Hird attempt aside, Brandon failed to trouble their opponent’s goal, digging in to prevent Allotment from snatching all three points. It looked as though they were set to succeed, as the visitors struggled to break down the numbers through the middle, and saw the majority of their crosses headed away from
safety. A late free-kick from Sean Reid was kept out by the diving Wilkinson, the ‘keeper’s fine save all-but guaranteeing a point for his side. However, in the game’s final throes, Brandon dared to venture forward – and duly paid the price. A fantastic Stephen Little challenge prevented United’s last attack, and the ensuing clearance was flicked into the path of Reid by previous goalscorer Bell. The energetic playmaker surged forward, sidestepping a desperate sliding challenge from the covering defender, before slotting beyond Wilkinson into the bottom corner. The late strike secured a maiden win for Allotment in notoriously difficult surroundings – a victory made sweeter by other less positive results for many of their promotion rivals on the day. With third place consolidated, Paul Stoneman can look towards reeling in Northallerton Town and the table-topping Heaton Stannington in the coming weeks.
the last meeting
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the match preview form: WWWWW
WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC
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S the form chart indicates, West Allotment Celtic head into the final five games in fine shape, with promotion very much on the cards at Whitley Park. The latest victory, a gutsy 3-1 win at Esh Winning on Tuesday night, saw Allotment consolidate their placing behind North Shields in second. Today’s hosts are currently four points ahead of fourth-placed Seaham Red Star with an additional game still to play.
BRANDON UNITED form: LWDLW
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With less than half a dozen games between Allotment and - potentially - Division One football, player-manager Paul Stoneman will require big performances from his big players - not least Sean Reid, whose brace secured the most recent victory at Westhouses. Left-back Marc Dummett and midfield maestro David Henderson were both rested on Tuesday eve, and could be in line to return to the starting line-up. The same may be said of Rob Nolan, who has recovered from the ankle injury that
ODAY’S visitors may be facing a different kind of battle at the opposite end of the table, but their confidence will be higher than ever after a very positive - and unexpected - Wednesday evening result.
untimely injury to a Birtley player put the visitors at a two man disadvantage. United promptly routed the decimated Hoops, scoring another seven goals to rack up what must be one of the biggest competitive wins in the club’s history.
Brandon played host to Birtley Town, a young side that had admirably held Allotment to a goalless draw less than a month ago. However, only ten of their Gateshead College players turned up at the Welfare Ground. Brandon soon took advantage, racing into a two goal lead. An
Young forward Stephen Moody helped himself to a hat-trick, along with fellow forward John Harrison, whilst Andrew Blackburn, James Davidson and Adam Cocks also got their names on the seemingly neverending scoresheet. Brandon are expected to survive for another season
West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
forced him off againt Ryton two weeks ago. Likewise, Dean Lee has made a recovery from a longstanding knee injury, coming off the bench for the final minutes midweek, and could once again feature. Glenn Ford, Chris Bannon and Paul Chapman are also expected to be available. All in all, Stoneman should have a strong squad from which to select, as West Allotment head into one of the most important months of football in their recent history. Nothing but three points will do this afternoon. of Northern League football, due in part to a lack of teams capable of promotion, but will undoubtedly hope to finish further up the table than their current placing. The thumping of Birtley aside, United enter the final furlong in patchy but otherwise decent form, having drawn at Chester-leStreet, defeated Darlington R.A. on their own turf and even knocked North Shields out of the League Cup in a rather positive March period. They won’t score nine today, but Brandon will be gunning for the same ultimate result.
Previously Tough-tackling stricken full-back midfielder Marc Dean Dummett Lee made has found his longhimself with awaited stiff competition return from once a again this persistent season, with knee the injury continuing good inform midweek, of Chrisstriking Douglas theforcing crossbar the Allotment and missing management to aimplement further gilt-edged a rotation policy at chance left-back, by ensuring mere that two top inches. qualityNow defenders fully see a recovered respectable from amount the of game injury time.- Itinitially may well be Marc’s sustained turn this afternoon, at as Northallerton Douglas occupied last the role season for the-duration ‘Deano’of willTuesday’s add win extra at Eshfirepower to the Winning. squad.
statattack The attendance at the Welfare Ground
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Points picked up on the road by today’s visitors
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previous meetings P 3 4 7
24-year-old playmaker Andrew Blackburn has been with the club for two seasons, having joined from Durham Alliance champions West Cornforth. A real threat whether deployed in midfield or outright attack, Andrew has been the source of many a Brandon goal, be it playing a role in the build-up, or occasionally getting on the scoresheet himself.
W 3 1 4
D 0 2 2
L 0 1 1
F 8 4 12
A 2 7 9
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Sean Reid’s tally for the current season
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No. of goals scored in Brandon’s last match
the preview
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brandon united the history
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RANDON United were originally formed as a Sunday morning side called Rostrons, the name of the waste paper company where most of the founders worked. They began by playing in the Durham & District Sunday League in 1968/69, Joining the Third Division and gradually played their way up to the First Division. They were basically local lads, however the inclusion of Northern League and Wearside League players turned the club into one of the most powerful Sunday football sides in the North East. From 1968/69 until 1976/77 they were First Division champions four times, Durham County FA. Sunday Cup winners three times, then the ultimate, F.A. Sunday Cup winners in 1975/76, defeating Evergreen 2-1. Brandon United’s proudest moment came in 1979/80 when entering the F.A. Cup for the first time, they reached the first round proper, on the way taking care of Northern League opponents Spennymoor United, Tow Law Town, South Bank and North Shields. In the first round proper, Brandon were beaten 3-0 by Football League opponents Bradford City, in a game played at Spennymoor. The club joined the Wearside League in 1981/82, winning the Sunderland Shipowners Cup. The following season they reached the quarter finals of the F.A- Vase and repeated the same the following season. On the 6th June 1983, Brandon United’s dream came true when they were admitted to the Northern League’s Second Division. United won the Second Division title the following season.. In 1988 United once again reached the first round proper of the F.A. Cup
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West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
playing Doncaster Rovers twice at Belle Vue before losing 1-2. In 1992/93 Brandon played Seaham Red Star in the League Cup final at Bedford Terrace home of Billingham Town, only to lose after a penalty shoot out. At the start of the 1998/1999 season Brandon appointed Ken Lindoe as manager and the clubs fortunes began to change. Ken had won the Wearside League at Annfield Plain and, with the Plain unable to move up to the Northern League, he decided to use his skills at lowly Brandon. He brought a number of players with him to Brandon and started the team rebuilding job. He quickly assembled a team that could compete in the league and also play good attacking football. In season 2000/2001 he led the team into Division One as champions. A season of consolidation then followed but, with further strengthening of the team, the League Championship was attained in 2002/2003. The following seasons until the present day have been rather tumultuous for Brandon United both on and off the pitch. The couple of years following the League Championship saw management, players and committee all leave the club as finances stretched the club to breaking point. A few seasons of flirting with relegation finally happened and the club were relegated back to the Second Division at the end of the 2005/06 season, where it has remained since despite finishing in the relegation places in 2007. A credible sixth-placed finish was achieved in ‘08-’09, though the club has since slipped back into mid-table since undergoing a thorough squad rebuild. Improvements have been made to the Welfare Ground in recent years, and the club hopes to continue its development on and off the pitch.
Nickname: Brandon Ground: The Welfare Ground Chairman: David Bussey
Rivals: Esh Winning, Tow Law Largest home crowd 2013/14: 70 v Norton & Stockton Distance travelled today (approx.): 29 miles
the players Carl Morris
The 27-year-old shot stopper is in his second year with the club, having previously tended goal for Evo-Stik outfit Darlington 1883.
Ben Clarey
Having joined from neighbours Esh Winning in 2012, the 23-year-old has been a regular in Brandon’s back four.
John Guy
Centre-half John has a vast depth of experience, the 30-year-old having turned out for Crook Town, Murton and Spennymoor. In his second spell with the club.
Iain Race
One of the current crop’s longest serving players with four seasons under his belt, centre-half Race brings strength and reliability to the heart of defence.
Alex Wilson
Capable as a defender or a midfielder, the 24-year-old has rejoined the team from neighbouring Esh Winning.
The pen profiles of some of Brandon’s key squad members
Neil Jackson
Now 31, Jackson came through the ranks at Middlesbrough and Darlington. Since then, the midfielder has turned out for a slew of teams, including Darlington R.A., Sunnderland Nissan and Whitby Town.
James Davidson
Like Alex Wilson, James is adept at the back or in midfield, having joined from Washington last year.
Kevin Hamilton
One of Brandon’s more influential players, Kevin is back for a second spell at the Welfare, having played for Esh Winning and West Auckland. Chips in with more than his fair share of goals.
David Harrison
Another midfielder whose career started on Teesside with Middlesbrough. Harrison turned out for Tow Law prior to his move to Brandon, and has also worn the colours of Esh Winning.
John Harrison
A regular on the Northern League scene, the 29-year-old has scored goals for the usual suspects (Esh Winning and Tow Law), as well as Whickham, Seaham Red Star and Willington, to name but a few!
Andrew Soppitt
A veteran centre-forward who joined from Esh last year, where he was team manager for two seasons. Keen on coaching, Andrew still has plenty left to offer on the pitch.
Stephen Moody
A young prospect in the Brandon side, the 20-year-old was previously a member of Ryhope’s Wearside-winning team.
Mark Brischuk
Brischuk ended the 2012/13 campaign as Brandon United’s top scorer, and the 28-yearold remains a threat up top. A former Durham County youth player, the 28-year-old has led the line for Spennymoor, Darlington R.A. and Newton Aycliffe.
the visitors
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back to the big time? It’s been three years since Allotment graced the top tier. For Messrs Dunn, Pendlebury and Lancaster, it’s been a long time coming.
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HE 26th of April 2011 was a dark night in West Allotment Celtic’s recent Northern League history. It was the evening where championselect Spennymoor Town sealed Allotment’s fate in emphatic fashion at the Brewery Field, smashing six past the soon to be relegated visitors. Amongst them was Ian Dunn, midfield general and club captain. Two fresher faces bore witness to the Northern League nadir; John Pendlebury, snapped up from Ryton & Crawcrook earlier in the season, and Tony Lancaster, a nippy attacker who had hooked up with the squad for its final ill-fated months. A 2-2 draw against Bishop Auckland in the final game salvaged some pride, if not top tier status, before the Division Two-bound squad was stripped for parts. Some opted to follow Paul Bennett to his latest project at Hebburn Town; others aimed higher still, continuing their top flight careers with other clubs. Amongst those staying were Dunn, Pendlebury and Lancaster, committed to the long-term project laid out by new player-manager Paul Stoneman.
Their faith was not rewarded instantly, though few could have expected the rebuilt Allotment to bounce straight back. Two consecutive seventh-place finishes tell only half a story, for Stoneman’s resurgent side took the league by storm in the latter months of 2013, and lifting their first silverware in eight years. Dunny was not there to hoist the Memorial Cup above his head, missing the final despite his best efforts to plot a course back from Spain to Synthonia.Vice-captain Penders did the honours in his stead. The injury-stricken Tony, though missing from the matchday squad, made the 112 mile round trip from his Hexham home just to be there. Much like the committee, those three players bided their time, believing in Stona’s long-term vision for the club. Three years on, Celtic stand on the precipice of promotion, five games away from the ultimate goal. All three have played their part in the run-in, and will undoubtedly be key in the thrilling climax to the season. Good things come to those who wait; hopefully the old adage will ring true, for none less than the most patient and loyal of trios. back to the big time?
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THREE MILES WEST • Glenn Ford and Michael Bell discuss their respective nonleague careers • The new upward direction of the Allotment ‘A’ team • Celtic’s pre-war success - and post-war struggles • Goal analysis, New Year resolutions and the impact of Sunday football on Saturday players
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the letter draw T
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25th March 2014 12 winners of £62.50 each
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20
West Allotment Celtic v North Northern Shields League Division Two
29th March 2013
20
the onion bag Craig Dobson’s take on the last seven days in the Allotment garden
T
HERE has been much ado about the Northern League’s 125th anniversary celebrations - and not without good reason. I could not make it; much like some of the FA’s withdrawn players, I needed to be kept fresh for another commitment the following day. For the Darlo lads, it was Wakefield at home; for me, an important meeting at a neutral venue (Nando’s at the Silverlink). If I hadn’t spent the evening eating pasta and engaging in some light (mental) exercise in preparation, I would’ve still opted to miss the match.A trip to Bishop Auckland on a Tuesday evening is difficult at the best of times; harder still without a vehicle other than a bicycle, long neglected at the back of the shed. It would have taken five hours to get there - three for an experienced cyclist, two more for a less than roadworthy novice. The event itself - or rather, the organisation - posed too many questions to garner the success it so richly deserved. Did the founding date need to be adhered to so fastidiously, in the middle of a hectic league season? Would a midweek
fixture not be asking too much of many? Why was a bar that accommodates quadruple figures of punters not open to the public? Could a game (or, better still, two games) not take place between the two divisions, ensuring greater representation - and thus interest - from all quarters? A sunny Saturday afternoon of football with every team represented was not unfathomable, had it been staged in May. Mike Amos believes the League was slighted by its own fans; the feeling may well be mutual. Then again, I wasn’t there; like many (or the few) who attended, I’m just on the outside looking in. If Heritage Park was difficult to reach in the evening, then West Terraces was nigh impossible. A winding dirt track through looming trees is hardly the most welcoming of entrances to a football ground. The reception once inside could not be more at odds with the surrounding area. The 40-odd fans there are, despite their relegation troubles, game for a laugh, even at their own expense. They even have their very own Les, heckling the referee about every decision. The man in the middle was damned either way.
It was a completely different side to the one we rolled over at the same ground the previous year. No long ball lumping, no menacing, stocky number nine with Stephen Little’s blood in his nostrils. Instead, they came to play, despite the conditions. After an even first half, Allotment’s quality shone through. Both of Reidy’s goals were top drawer, and Tony seems to have taken a leaf out of Dean Lee’s book of late, frequently popping up with finishes at the back post. Afterwards, all and sundry headed to the clubhouse to catch the final thirty minutes of the Liverpool-Sunderland game. Premier League football on the telly had not deterred the faithful from donning their headgear and duffel coats on a bitter Wednesday eve. There was a great feeling about the place; the atmosphere was relaxed, the game was goodnatured, and even the officials were rather jaunty (though Hoggy’s armpit tickling antics on the linesman’s person may warrant another hearing). It was what the Northern League should be about. Here’s to another 125 years of warmth, camaraderie, and half-time refreshments for all.
goal of the week
man of the week
Sean Reid’s first - a superb touch followed by a stunning half-volley on the turn. Everything about it was pure class.
Tony Lancaster bagged two in as many games, and has come on leaps and bounds since recovering from a painful-looking knee injury.
West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
the onion bag
21
March
29
on this day...
1937 Celtic beat Percy Main Methodists in an Easter Monday clash in the Tynemouth & District League. Celtic were at the top of the table. However, Cullercoats had several games in hand. The coast side had to win virtually all of their outstanding games to catch Celtic but they managed to do so and thus force a play-off for the title. The momentum was with Cullercoats and they duly went on to win the playoff and condemn Celtic to a runners-up spot.
1969 A brace from Ian Halliday was enough to secure a rare victory in what was to be Celtic’s worst-ever season in the Northern Amateur League. Bohemians were the visitors to Backworth and they could only find the net once in response to Halliday’s two efforts.
1975 Another bad day as Celtic lost by four goals to two away to John Boste in the Northern Amateur League. It was only Allotment’s third reverse of the season but it was to prove costly in terms of the race for the championship. Wilson and Milburn scored Celtic’s goals.
1986 At Christmas time, Celtic had harboured hopes of landing a first Northern Alliance title. However, results slipped badly after the festive season and the championship was to prove elusive. A 1-2 defeat at home to old rivals Seaton Delaval Amateurs was indicative of the type of result being experienced by the team. In fact, the 1-2 defeat against the Amateurs was the third in a run of four consecutive defeats by exactly the same scoreline. Peter Jackson grabbed Celtic’s goal against Delaval but it was poor consolation as the side endured a run of nine league games without a victory.
22
West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history
1997 Middlesbrough “A” and Allotment were lying third and fourth respectively in the Northern Alliance table as the clubs met up at Hillheads. The visitors were young and skilful and largely outplayed Celtic, who eventually went down to the odd goal in three. John O’Loughlin and Wayne Allon scored for Boro, with Dave Walton on target for Allotment.
2003 Allotment made the trip to Portland Park to tackle Ashington Colliers in the quarter-finals of the Longhorn Hardware Northern Alliance League Cup. The journey up the Spine Road was less than comfortable, with a fire causing a tail-back on the road that trapped several players in its several miles-long wake – causing the kick-off to be delayed by an hour. Things on the pitch were to prove little easier for Allotment, for although the Colliers were two divisions lower than their visitors, they were not overawed and gave Celtic a very hard work-out. The only goal of the match arrived just before the interval when Ian Swan forced the ball home. Manager Terry Mitchell conceded afterwards that “it was a hard-fought game and certainly not easy on a difficult surface – but 1-0 is enough to win any cup match and I’m happy”. The effort proved worthwhile as Celtic went to reach the final, where they beat Benfield Saints by three goals to two.
2008 Six goals were shared in a Northern League Division 1 match away to Consett. On an absolute mudbath of a pitch, Allotment rescued a point through goals from Andy Watson, Lee York and an own goal.
on this day
23
top scorers
player statistics
the mainstays
Sean Reid - 41 (1) Ian Dunn - 37 (4) Paul Stoneman - 37
gk Liam Hudson - 14 Michael Bell - 9 Chris Douglas - 8
Chris Bannon Ryan Beal Bob Rodgerson
13 24 7 (2)
2 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
defence
the playmakers
yel
John Pendlebury Marc Dummett Chris Douglas Simon Wilthew Paul Stoneman Stephen Little Glenn Ford Roy Gordon
31 (3) 26 (3) 35 (3) 1 (1) 37 30 15 (1) 8 (9)
1 6 3 1 5 4 0 0
0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
0 8 8 0 3 1 0 1
1 1 3 0 3 5 0 0
midfield
Sean Reid - 32 David Dormand - 16 Michael Bell - 10
apps
Paul Chapman Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc Allen Sean Reid Bernat Roca Bart Oliver-Berga Kallum McGlen David Henderson Tony Lancaster Dean Lee Connor Graham
1 37 (4) 29 (6) 11 (10) 41 (1) 1 (2) 1 (3) 8 (7) 31 (3) 8 (8) 13 (9) 2 (7)
1 7 2 1 6 1 0 0 3 2 1 0
0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 1 9 0 7 0 0 2 8 1 0 2
0 6 10 1 32 0 1 1 1 3 3 0
attack
name
Liam Hudson David Dormand Lawrence McKenna Rob Nolan
32 (4) 31 (8) 8 (11) 4 (3)
4 1 1 0
Tow 00Law146Town168 0 0
2 0
4 4
Beal
Pendlebury
Little
Stoneman
Dunn
24
gls
average starting XI
the bad boys
Paul Stoneman - 5 1 Ian Dunn - 7 0 Sean Reid - 6 0
red asts
Hudson
West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
Douglas
Henderson Reid
Bell
Dormand
the player statistics
fixtures and results nl div 2 table
1
team North Shields
pl 36
w 27
d 6
l 3
gd pts 97 87
2
WAC
37
24
9
4
39 81
3
Seaham
38
25
5
8
50 77
4
Roofing
35
23
7
5
54 76
5
Heaton Stan
34
20
5
9
18 65
6
Nort & Stock
39
17
9
13 13 60
7
Ch-le-Street
35
15 10 10
8
Northallerton 35
15
8
12 11 53
9
Washington
34
15
4
15
-8
49
10 Birtley
36
14
7
15
-8
49
11 Darlo RA
36
13
9
14
9
48
12 Whickham
33
14
5
14 16 47
13 Thornaby
37
14
5
18
1
47
14 Tow Law
36
13
6
17
-2
45
15 Willington
36
11
8
17 -20 41
16 South Shields 31
8
14
9
17 Whitehaven
33
11
5
17 -27 38
18 Stokesley
38
8
8
22 -30 32
19 Alnwick
36
8
8
20 -34 32
20 Brandon
34
8
4
22 -34 28
21 Esh Winning
38
8
2
28 -81 26
22 Ryton
33
5
4
24 -55 19
5
55
-14 38
OFFICIAL NORTHERN LEAGUE SPONSORS
AUGUST 10th Alnwick Town 14th Heaton Stannington 17th Billingham Synthonia 21st Willington 24th Stokesley SC 30th Whickham
NL D2 NL D2 FA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A A A A H H
W 4-0 L 3-2 L 4-0 W 2-0 W 3-2 W 3-1
SEPTEMBER Seaham Red Star 4th Stokesley SC 7th th Norton & Stockton 11 th Esh Winning 14 th Ryton & Crawcrook 18 st Penrith 21 th Darlington RA 28
NL D2 FA Vase NL D2 NL D2 Lg Cup FA Vase NL D2
H H A H H A A
W 2-1 W 4-3 D 3-3 D 1-1 W 1-0 L 4-1 W 4-0
OCTOBER Whitehaven 5th Alnwick Town 9th th Birtley Town 12 th Tow Law Town 16 th Ryton & Crawcrook 19 th North Shields 26 th Northallerton Town 30
NL D2 NFA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H H H A H H
L 3-1 L 2-1 W 2-1 W 3-2 W 4-2 D 0-0 W 3-0
NOVEMBER Brandon United 1st Willington 5th th Jarrow Roofing 8 th Chester-le-Street 12 th Washington 16 rd Chester-le-Street 23 th Northallerton Town 27 th Thornaby 30
NL D2 EA Cup NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 Lg Cup NL D2
A A H A A H H H
W 2-1 L 4-1 L 5-3 D 0-0 W 3-2 D 2-2 W 5-3 W 2-1
DECEMBER 10th South Shields 14th Willington 21st Seaham Red Star 28th Norton & Stockton
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A H
D 2-2 W 3-0 D 2-2 W 5-0
JANUARY Tow Law Town 4th 10th Alnwick Town th Stokesley SC 18
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A
W 4-3 W 5-3 D 2-2
FEBRUARY 22nd Darlington RA 25th Marske United
NL D2 Lg Cup
H A
W 2-1 L 2-0
MARCH Whitehaven 1st Heaton Stannington 5th th Birtley Town 8 th Whickham 11 th Ryton & Crawcrook 15 th South Shields 19 nd Northallerton Town 22 th Esh Winning 26 th Brandon United 29
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
H H A A H H A A H
W 2-0 L 1-0 D 0-0 W 3-2 W 2-1 W 3-2 W 3-1 W 3-1
APRIL Jarrow Roofing 5th 12th Washington th North Shields 18 26th Thornaby
NL D2 NL D2 NL D2 NL D2
A H A A
fixtures, results, table
25
ee itt m m ing Co eet m pm 8
19th Mar
20th Mar 21st Mar
rottweiler’s notes
Rin g Bloo the dho un
d!
Shopping with Barbara during the day, then attend our game with South Shields. Once again, the game is ruined by the wind, but what a great battling performance from the lads to win the game. Getting in to my car bang my head and nearly knock myself out. Attend meeting with Ian Blanchard (FA Senior National Game Referee Manager) and Lucy May, then in the evening attend Board & Council Meetings, and to be honest, cannot recall much of these meetings due to my head pounding and finding it very difficult to concentrate. When I arrive home Barbara wants me to go to hospital which I refuse to do, telling Barbara head will be fine in the morning. Well, head is no better this morning and after taking Morgan to school, go to A&E (transported by the bloodhound) and eventually told I have a tiny fracture in my head. Thankfully no damage done (some will say I am too thick) and told it will heal in two weeks. I should have been at NFA Annual Dinner in the evening, but spend rest of the day at home and while writing the blog in the evening still not feeling at all well.
22nd Mar
Spend the day at home with my head still aching, especially when I look down. Great result at Northallerton which really does cheer me up.
23rd Mar
Attend Northern League’s church service at Durham and it really was a brilliant service then on to Ramside Hall for lunch which was excellent. All in all, the Northern League have done everyone proud today. As the bugger said in his speech many of us will probably not be around for the 150th anniversary; for once I have to agree with Mike. In the evening watch a fabulous El Clasico game.
24th Mar
Morgan has spent the weekend with d******d and what she tells us we are absolutely appalled, Morgan dotes on him but we do wonder at his behaviour.
25th Mar
Attend board meeting at NFA, then in the evening go to Northern League’s 125th Anniversary game with Rowland Maughan. A nice pleasant evening out. My head is still troubling me.
26th Mar
Go and see grandson at Durham who is making good progress. Was due to be match assessor at Newcastle Utd U21 v Manchester Utd U21, head bothering me so much inform FA not well enough to attend the game. Barbara nags me so I go to hospital and they tell me I am suffering from concussion. Another excellent win tonight. Nine points from five games will guarantee promotion.
26
West Allotment Celtic v Brandon United
rottweiler’s notes
FOREST HALL YPC
Proud to support West Allotment Celtic Forest Hall Young People’s Club are based at East Palmersville Sports Pavilion, and have no fewer than 25 teams playing under the Forest Hall banner, including youth, senior and women’s teams.
Ross FLINTOFF Andrew SOPPITT BRANDON Manager Vince KIRKUP Coaches Wane BRANDON
CELTIC Manager Paul STONEMAN Assistant Wilf KEILTY Coach Paul HOGG Physio Charlotte FERGUSON
MATCH OFFICIALS Referee J HARPER Assistants F ANDERSON A McDONOUGH
West Allotment Celtic Chris BANNON Ryan BEAL Bob RODGERSON John PENDLEBURY Marc DUMMETT Stephen LITTLE Paul STONEMAN Glenn FORD Chris DOUGLAS Roy GORDON Ian DUNN (c) Marc ALLEN David HENDERSON Michael BELL Sean REID Matthew SLATER Kallum McGLEN Tony LANCASTER Dean LEE Connor GRAHAM Liam HUDSON David DORMAND Rob NOLAN
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Brandon United Carl MORRIS Daniel PETERKIN Ben CLAREY John GUY Connor BAIN Iain RACE Alex WILSON Mark FERGUSON Jake NICHOLSON Andrew BLACKBURN Jordan HILDER Neil JACKSON James DAVIDSON Cyle HUNTER-OGUNGBO Kevin HAMILTON Alex GRAHAM Mark BRISCHUK Stephen MOODY John HARRISON Andrew SOPPITT John Paul SPENCE David HARRISON Mathew SOULSBY
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