WAC programme - Thornaby

allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

THOMASPOTTER

connorgrahamanother hot

prospect begins to impress at

Whitley Park

NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO SATURDAY 30TH NOVEMBER 2013

thornaby

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contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the last meeting

the preview

the visitors

the interview

the letter draw

the onion bag

on this day

the player statistics

fixtures, results, table

rottweiler’s notes

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welcome10

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Unit 3J, Admiral Business Park, Nelson Way, Cramlington, NE23 1WG

Tel: 01670 591 100www.thomaspotter.com

Club OfficialsPresidentChairmanVice-ChairmanSecretaryTreasurerCommercial

Committee

Press OfficerPhotographer

Backroom StaffManagerAssistant ManagerFirst Team CoachPhysio

Selected Club HonoursNorthern Alliance champions

Northern League D2 championsNFA Amateur Cup winnersNFA Benevolent Bowl winnersCraven Cup winnersErnest Armstrong Mem. Cup winners

Alex SmailesRoland MatherJimmy WilsonTed Ilderton

John AlexanderJonny Thompson

David DoddsPaul MasonAbove, plus

Al Liddle,Michael Wilson, Les Scott,

Kath Orr, Harry Bell, Stephen Allott,

Richie MarksCraig Dobson

Graeme Jackson

Paul StonemanWilf KieltyPaul Hogg

Charlotte Ferguson

1987, 1991,1992, 1998,1999, 2000,2002, 2004

20051957, 1975

199320052013

eighty-five years in the makingStephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations...

West Allotment Celtic v Thornaby4

...and the decade of declineThe 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.

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 lastA rejuvenated West Allotment won the NFA Amateur Cup again in 1975, largely thanks to the goalscoring exploits of Benny Williams,

from creation to contendersWest 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.

changing leagues, shedsand timesIn 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.

the history

eighty-five years in the makingwho 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.

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.

the colossus of the allianceIn 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

Stephen Allott takes you on a whistlestop tour of the club’s history, studded with hardship, success and numerous relocations...

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 dayHaving 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 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.

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the squad

CB Simon WilthewCB Glenn FordCB Stephen LittleCB Paul StonemanRB John Pendlebury

GK Chris BannonGK Ryan BealGK Bob RodgersonGK Jack Thompson

Chris BannonGK 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.

Ryan BealGK 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.

Stephen LittleCB Age: 26

The ex-Annfield Plain and Killingworth stopper

shone at the back for Allotment last season, putting in a series of superlative defensive showings, earning the

Player’s Player of the Year Award in the process.

Glenn FordCB 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.

Simon WilthewCB Age: 25

Simon featured 15 times at the back for Allotment

last season. Strong at centre-half and adept at

left-back, the Monkseaton defender will be looking

to build on his impressive debut in the Northern

League.

John PendleburyRB Age: 27

A first-team regular since signing for Allotment from Ryton in 2010,

John’s relentless work ethic and tenacious

tackling bring stability to the back four. The

full-back often serves as captain in the absence of

Ian Dunn.

Chris DouglasRB Age: 29

The ultimate utility player, Chris can be employed anywhere down either

flank to devastating effect. The former North Shields man’s pace and

perception underpins his undoubted ability, be it as a full-back or a wide

midfielder.

Bob RodgersonGK Age: 31

A Percy Main Amateurs regular, Bob performed admirably when filling in during a goalkeeping crisis towards the back end of last season, and

has registered once again to be our third choice

‘keeper.

the squad 7

RB Chris DouglasLB Marc DummettCM David BorleyCM Michael LatimerCM Roy Gordon

CM Ian DunnCM Marc AllenCM David HendersonCM Michael BellCM Sean Reid

CM Bernat RocaRM Kallum McGlenRM Tony LancasterRM Bart Oliver-BergaLM Connor Graham

LM Dean LeeST David DormandST Lawrence McKennaST Liam HudsonST Jed Findlay

Marc DummettLB Age: 26

The former Ponteland United and Dunston full-back 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 GordonCM 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.

David HendersonCM Age: 31

David Henderson rejoined the club last

season, and the former North Shields schemer provides another option going forward through the middle. Henders is arguably one of the

most skilful players in the squad.

Sean ReidCM Age: 21Rangy, pacy and

technically gifted, Sean can play as a roaming central midfielder, a dangerous centre-

forward, or even an adept centre-back. The former Ryton forward is one of Celtic’s most promising

attacking outlets.

Michael BellCM 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.

Ian DunnCM Age: 31

Long-serving, tough tackling midfielder Dunn

has grafted tirelessly for three years at West Allotment, earning the

captain’s armband in the process. “Dunny” remains one of Celtic’s key men

deep in the heart of midfield.

Marc AllenCM Age: 26

Marc previously turned out for Whitley Bay Reserves, but has

become a mainstay in the Celtic squad. His astute passing, ball retention

skills and battling tenacity are evident whenever he is called upon in central

midfield.

Michael LatimerCM Age: 26

Seasoned midfielder Michael returns to

Allotment, having spent time at Bedlington Terriers, Newcastle

Benfield and Washington. A tough tackler and a

highly versatile member of the squad, capable of playing at centre-half.

West Allotment Celtic v Thornaby the squad8

the squad

Tony LancasterRM Age: 28

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.

Dean LeeLM Age: 30

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 DormandST Age: 25David’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.

Liam HudsonST Age: 25

Another former Ryton forward, army soldier

Liam is capable of pressuring his opposite

numbers into submission with his strength and high

work rate. “Hud” can also be deployed on the

right wing.

Jed FindlayST Age: 24

Signed from Cramlington Town last February, Jed is a promising forward with plenty of attacking potential. Having made a handful of appearances last season, the striker will be hoping to get more game time this

campaign.

Lawrence McKennaST Age: 25

Lawrence is well-travelled, having topped the scoring charts for

Whickham, before going on to play for Bedlington Terriers and Newcastle Benfield. Is known to be a deadly finisher in the

division.

Ryan AndersonST Age: 18

A promising young striker, Ryan was

snapped up in trials for Allotment’s ‘A’ team, and has already impressed for

both the development side and the first team’s respective pre-seasons.

Kallum McGlenRM 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.

the backroom staff 9

the backroom staff

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Paul Stoneman

Paul StonemanPlayer/Manager

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.

Wilf KieltyAssistant ManagerRight-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.

Paul HoggFirst Team CoachThe 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 FergusonPhysiotherapist

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.


27TH NOVEMBER 2013 BROOKS MILESON MEMORIAL LEAGUE CUP WHITLEY PARK

SEAN Reid’s stunning four-goal haul put

West Allotment Celtic well on their way to a 5-3 victory over Northallerton Town on Wednesday night, ensuring his side’s progression to the third round of the Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup.

The much-changed hosts have been victims of their own profligacy in recent weeks, but four first-half strikes – three coming from livewire Reid in the first twenty-five minutes – put West Allotment in charge at Whitley Park. The Yorkshiremen did rally as the second half wore on, briefly threatening to stage a remarkable comeback, but Celtic staved off the late

pressure to keep their cup hopes alive.

Player-manager Paul Stoneman rang the changes ahead of the midweek tie, with Reid pushed up front in place of David Dormand, and his side reaped the rewards less than a minute into the game. Connor Graham floated a cross into the area, where the unmarked Reid ghosted between defenders to head Allotment in front.

The 21-year-old continued to pose a threat to Town’s back four, slipping behind the defence and stinging the palms of Jordan Aspinall, but he didn’t have to wait long to double his – and Celtic’s – tally. Reid once again slipped his marker in the box, nodding home a Marc Dummett delivery following

the last match

more good work from the promising Graham.

Town were two down within the opening period, but exposed Allotment’s inability to deal with corners for the first time, reducing the deficit within five minutes of its extension. Chris Douglas looked to have saved his side with a desperate goal line clearance, and John Pendlebury threw himself in front of Graham Caygill’s follow-up, but the ball ultimately broke to Stephen Banks, whose shot had too much on it for Marc Dummett to block.

New signing David Borley was one of four changes to the side which drew against Chester-le-Street on Saturday, but his debut lasted just fifteen

West Allotment Celtic 5 Northallerton Town 3

11the last match

minutes, with the midfielder complaining of a calf injury. His departure came at an inopportune time, as Town and Celtic both went looking for the game’s most important goal. Reid placed two efforts wide of goal, whilst Michael Bell, whilst faring better with his venomous drive, brought a routine save from Aspinall. At the other end, Darren Kokes flashed an effort wide of goal, before an uncharacteristic error from Chris Douglas handed Michael Stevens a gilt-edged chance, only for the full-back to volley mere inches past the far post.

The game’s fourth goal was West Allotment’s third, with Reid completing his quickfire hat-trick – and the last was easily the pick of the goals, a curling free kick that sailed over the wall and into the far corner. Northallerton could have reeled their opponents back in for a second time, but were denied twice in quick succession by ‘keeper Ryan Beal, first tipping a sweetly struck Darren Kokes attempt around the post, before getting down well to his right to palm away an improved effort from Stevens.

There was to be no second comeback from the Yorkshire outfit, as Allotment all but made the game safe on the stroke of half-time. 19-year-old Graham was once again heavily involved, leaving his marker behind en route to the byline

and lofting a cross over the top of Aspinall, with corresponding winger Bell drifting inside to head home.

With the game seemingly over as a contest, the tie lost a degree of its intensity, only for Reid’s fourth goal to lift the tempo once more. The playmaker hounded Grant Hickman on the edge of Town’s area, charged down the attempted clearance, and deftly chipped the ball over the ‘keeper.

Bell and Dummett both mustered routine saves from Aspinall, whilst Craig Toman sent a rasping drive just past the angle of the woodwork, before the departures of Reid and Graham preceded an unlikely Northallerton Town revival. Striker Graham Caygill won a footrace with Ryan Beal, coming off better in the tackle and curling the ball around the covering Glenn Ford to give the visitors a modicum of hope.

Kokes nodded an effort wide, and Anderson was denied by Beal once more, but Peter Mulcaster’s men would haul themselves back into the match from the resulting corner. The green and whites struggled to deal with another set-piece, affording Daniel McLachlan the opportunity to head the ball through the crowd and into the net.

The winger’s finish reignited the tie, setting the stage for

a frenetic final ten minutes. Substitute Dean Lee rattled the crossbar with an angled half-volley from the edge of the box, whilst in the other penalty area, Colin Anderson lost another straight shoot with Beal, the latter keeping out a goalbound strike with his outstretched legs. Gavin Parkin was next to go close, lashing marginally over the crossbar, but the best chance to seal the result fell to Lee. The returning wide man rounded Aspinall with ease, but planted his effort into the side netting with the goal gaping.

Northallerton did not have time to muster a concerted fightback, the game finishing 5-3 in West Allotment’s favour. It marked a return to form for Celtic’s attackers, with the dangerous Graham impressing just as much as four goal hero Reid.

West Allotment Celtic v Thornaby 12

2ND MARCH 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

D ESPITE throwing away a two goal lead, West

Allotment Celtic came back to defeat Teesside outfit Thornaby 5 – 2 in an enthralling encounter at Whitley Park.

David Dormand and Ian Dunn spurned early half-chances for the hosts, before latter’s deft chip came back off the woodwork. Division Two’s form side did not have to wait long for an opening goal. Dean Lee received the ball in the area after a fine team move down the left, curling beyond Nick Farrell in the Thornaby goal.

The Teessiders could have been down by two goals just minutes later, Liam Hudson planting a weak header straight at Farrell. The missed opportunity

belatedly spurred the Blues on, and Dunn had to make the first of many blocks to deny the visitors, before Robert Pearson fired over from the resulting corner kick. Despite the brief resurgence, Allotment had the upper hand in all areas of the pitch, and soon doubled their advantage. This time, Celtic attacked down the right, affording Hudson the time and space to slide the ball into the bottom corner.

Stoneman’s charges could – and should – have put the result beyond doubt before half-time, but missed a hatful of chances to build an unassailable lead, with Michael Bell the guiltiest culprit. At the other end, only Jamie Denning briefly threatened, flashing an effort wide of Ryan Beal’s far post.

the last meeting

Thornaby looked like a different side after the interval, and hauled themselves back into the game within minutes of the restart. Gary Mitchell dispatching a penalty. Five minutes later, the Teessiders completed a most unlikely comeback, Stephen Morrison slamming home after Chris Douglas had cleared off the line from a corner.

The home side weathered the brief storm, and were soon in the ascendancy once more. Lee dragged an effort wide of goal, and player-manager Stoneman cannoned a header against the crossbar. The most shocking miss was yet to come. Dormand’s aerial challenge on the halfway line afforded Hudson a clear run at goal, but, with time and space aplenty,

West Allotment Celtic 5 Thornaby 2

the last meeting 13

the forward tamely shot straight at Farrell.

With the game still finely poised, Allotment finally took the lead. An initial effort from Dormand was well saved by the Thornaby number one, but the poacher reacted quickest to the rebound, and emphatically slammed home to restore the host’s advantage with fifteen minutes remaining.

The game looked set for a tense and nailbiting finale – but a wiser Celtic side were not to be pegged back again. Instead, the two top scorers combined to seal all three points. Slipping in behind the back four, Dormand resisted the urge to go for goal himself, unselfishly squaring the ball across the box into the path of Lee. The attacker’s effort soared into the top corner, guaranteeing all three points for the Tynesiders.

There was even time for Sean Reid to add gloss to the victory with a towering header at the back post, following a robust headed pass across goal from fellow centre-half Stoneman, before Kallum McGlen and Dormand were denied a sixth by two good Farrell saves.

West Allotment showed great courage and determination to come back and reassert their dominance, ultimately running out comprehensive winners.

...in pictureswith graeme jackson


the match preview

WEST Allotment Celtic’s luck in

front of goal changed for the better on Wednesday night, as an attack spearheaded by Sean Reid grabbed five goals on the night - the 21-year-old scoring four of them - and look as threatening as ever heading into today’s game.

Player-manager Paul Stoneman, recuperating from illness in midweek, chose to freshen up the starting eleven against Northallerton, and one or

TEESSIDE outfit Thornaby are

currently languishing in an all too familiar position in the league - but the current crop arguably form one of the club’s stronger sides in recent years, and will expect to fight for a place higher up the table as the season progresses.

Club legend Neil Radigan has drafted in a number of established Northern League names in recent weeks, as Thornaby look to do better than their two consecutive 19th place finishes in previous seasons.

two players certainly gave him food for thought on the evening. Sean Reid’s four-goal haul may convince the boss to keep him in an advanced role, but David Dormand is also primed for a return to the line-up.

Likewise, Connor Graham impressed on the left wing, and could be handed a second consecutive start - but he could be up against Dean Lee for the spot, as the winger looked sharp when coming off the bench for the last twenty minutes.

Liam Hudson and Ian

Defenders Lee Bytheway and Sean Davies have arrived from Bishop Auckland and Northallerton Town respectively, whilst the trio of Ged Livingstone, Ricky Phillips and Derek Bradley have made the short trip from Billingham Town. Ritchie Walker joined from Darlington R.A., whilst former centre-half Ian Bickerstaff returns from Crook Town - big names in an ambitious squad.

The Blues have sprung the occasional surprise this season, defeating the likes of Bedlington Terriers and R.A., as well as pushing Heaton

Stan close in a 5-4 defeat, but those performances have been few and far between. The Teessiders have been a little more unfortunate of late, penalty shootouts accounting for two of their last three defeats, but they did push Division One outfit Ashington all the way, with Phillips, David Wells and Callum Wilson getting on the scoresheet, before the former was dismissed before the tense finale.

The performance against the reputable Colliers will give the Blues a boost before today’s game - against another dangerous side.

Dunn were two notable absentees, but are expected to return for today’s game - although the performance of Michael Bell, scoring his fifth goal of an already productive season, may well consign the former to a place on the substitute’s bench.

Stephen Little serves the final game of his suspension, whilst Chris Bannon, Kallum McGlen and Marc Allen are all expected to miss out. The same applies to recent signing David Borley, the midfielder limping off after fifteen minutes of play with a calf injury.

WES

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TMEN

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ELTIC

form

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WD

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form

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the preview 15

statattack

15

63The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park

No. of goals scored by Joe Melvin

No. of points separating the two teams last season

45

4No. of points picked up on the road by Thornaby

Previously stricken midfielderDean Lee made his long-awaited return from apersistent knee injuryin midweek, striking thecrossbar and missinga further gilt-edgedchance by mereinches. Now fullyrecovered from theinjury - initially sustained at Northallerton last season - ‘Deano’ willadd extra firepower tothe squad.

league meetings

P W D L F A 3 2 1 0 9 5 3 1 1 1 5 4 6 3 2 1 14 9

Club captain Stephen Morrison has spearheaded something of a Thornaby revival of late, the committed full-back an almost ever-present in Thornaby’s starting eleven so far this season - even adding two goals to his game.

thornaby


THORNABY F.C. has a long and chequered history, having originally

started life as Stockton Athletic in 1882. For 50 years it became one of the country’s leading amateur sides, winning many Northern League honours during this time.

After this successful period, thirty more years elapsed with membership held in various other leagues before a decline in fortunes, mainly due to financial problems, saw the club disband in 1975, and the historic Victoria Ground sold off for building land.

The club was established in 1980 when Stockton Cricket Club’s football team joined the Wearside Football League. The club were known as Stockton until 2000. During this period, Stockton F.C. were runners-up in the Sunderland Shipowners’ Cup in 1982/83, losing to Blue Star F.C.. The club picked up its first silverware three seasons later, winning the North Riding County Cup in 1985/86. The side continued its meteoric rise after gaining entry to the Northern League, and won Division Two twice, first in 1987/88 and again in 1991/92. The Teeside team also won the Craven Cup in 1993/94.

The side were promoted to Division One of the Northern League in 2000/01 after a third-placed finish, but were relegated back to Division Two at the first time of asking. Nevertheless, the Teesiders bounced back up in 2003/04, having finished third once more. The club remained in the top tier for the next two seasons, finishing 12th and 15th respectively. However, despite finishing 17th in 2005/06, they were demoted due to the poor quality of their ground.

Back in Division Two, Thornaby finished a disappointing 13th in 2006/07. but significantly improved in the following season, sitting comfortably in 7th place come the end of April. Things took a turn for the worse in 2008/09, as Thornaby finished in their lowest position since joining the Northern League. The club propped up the rest of the table, winning just five games in the entire campaign. Thornaby fared a little better the following year, winding up in 17th place, with only Washington, Darlington R.A. and Birtley Town finishing beneath them. However, they did improve upon their previous cup exploits, making it to the final of the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup. Despite battling hard, the Teesiders were beaten 3 - 1 in extra time by Whitehaven, having played 75 minutes with ten men.

The ever-improving side continued to climb the league table, comfortably ending the next season in 14th place. That progress stagnated a little last season, as Ray Morton’s men wound up in 19th place, still clear of the dreaded relegation places. With former stalwart Neil Radigan now at the helm, ably assisted by Paul Edwards, and a number of top players now on board, Thornaby can look towards a top half finish this season.

the history

the visitors 17

Nickname: The BluesGround: Teesdale ParkChairperson: Laurence Lyons

Rivals: Stokesley, Willington, NorthallertonLargest home crowd 2013/14: 82 v WillingtonDistance travelled today (approx.): 41 miles

Michael DuffReliable stopper Duff has made the number one jersey his own since joining the Teessiders in pre-season.

Craig WinterSon of former Premier League referee Jeff, the solid defender has previously turned out for Division Two rivals Northallerton Town, and has chipped in with four goals, in no small part down to his aerial prowess.

Sean DaviesThe 28-year-old stopper signed from Northallerton this summer, having been part of a Crook Town side that won promotion. Sean is a strong defender who has had Football League experience while with Scarborough.

Ian BishopA Darlington academy product and former R.A. centre-half, towering centre-half Bish also has previous experience with Norton & Stockton, as well as many years under his belt at Thornaby.

Lee BythewayCultured full-back Bytheway arrived at Teesdale Park alongside a slew of new signings, swapping Bishop Auckland for Division Two football, and has impressed in his first appearances.

Rob PearsonOne of the few players to remain at the club from last season, Pearson has worn the blue shirt with pride since 2009, and is considered a reliable presence, be it in midfield or in defence.

Callum WilsonComfortable at full-back or as a winger, Callum has spent time at Norton & Stockton Ancients, and has also played for Northern Premier League outfit Whitby Town.

Stephen MorrisonFormerly of local rivals Billingham Synthonia, hardworking full-back Morrison has become an integral member of the squad at Teesdale Park, earning the captain’s armband in the process.

Christopher BurtonAnother player to stick it out with Thornaby after an indifferent campaign, experienced midfield man Burton has four goals to his name, having featured twenty times for the team thus far.

Jamie BlythThe dangerous winger featured for Thornaby as a 17-year-old, and, after a spell at Billingham Synthonia, has returned to his initial club, and looks set to deliver on his potential this season.

David OnionsExperienced striker Onions joins from Guisborough Town with a fearsome reputation, firing the Priorymen back to Division One in 2011, and continuing to hit the target thereafter.

Joe MelvinUndoubtedly Thornaby’s main goalgetter this year, former Stokesley man Melvin has hit his stride already, bagging a remarkable fifteen goals for the club. A dangerous and effective poacher.

the players The pen profiles of some of Thornaby’s key squad members

GraemeJackson

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the interview 19

thank you for your support

Connor Grahama brief chat with...

the victory against Northallerton Town

Aye, a canny result. Stupid to give away some slack goals, there were a few errors at the back, but overall it was half-decent.

his chance in the starting eleven

Aye, it was good to get a start - the first one I’ve had - so I’m just hoping to improve, really. Just got to get back, get fit and look forward to the next one.

his sterling performance on the wing

That’s probably the best one I’ve had so far. Washington away I wasn’t so bad, but it’s just a brief spell, but that was probably the best game I’ve had so far. I just need to get my fitness back up a bit. I’ve been bad lately, so I had to

rest a bit.

his rapid rise at Allotment

I only played one game for Longbenton. It was through Lemington, playing with Stevie Little and Hendy. I scored five in a game, so they introduced Hoggy to come and watch me when I played against Greenside. I ended up scoring another three, so he said come along to training. I was just meant to be training, but they’ve given me a shot in the team.

former teammate Alex Nisbet

Nezza? I know him well; when I was at Longbenton, he was there. And then he came to Lemington on a Sunday. I’d already played with him in the business league at Coach Lane. I’d had a few games, he’d played for the opposition. He likes to play week in week out, he

doesn’t like to stick it out. He’s not that sort of player.

on his fight for a first-team place

Hopefully. I’ll keep plugging away and keep trying my best, that’s all I can do.

SIX weeks ago, nineteen-year-old winger Connor Graham was turning out for

Longbenton. Now, the hot prospect is beginning to show his promise in green and white colours. We talked to him after a rare start yielded two assists and a lively performance against Northallerton.

West Allotment Celtic v North Shields20 Northern League Division Two 29th March 2013 20

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21 West Allotment Celtic v Thornaby the onion bag

the onion bag Craig Dobson’s take on the last seven days in the Allotment garden

ACROSS the United Kingdom - and most

probably beyond - football fans love nothing more a good cup run. The fabled magic, though dulled somewhat by the uncomfortable Chiles-Keane axis on ITV, is still there, patiently lying dormant, waiting for the next giantkilling display to restore faith amongst the laity. Away from the FA’s premier knockout competition, there’s plenty for Northern League fans to get excited about - moreso, perhaps, than in any other part of the country. Our league has the Vase in its pocket - or rather in one of its clubs’ trophy cabinets. It won’t be on display at Blue Flames any time soon, with Allotment falling at the second hurdle. It has been the case in most cup competitions thus far, even failing to mount a meaningful defence of our Ernest Armstrong silverware, going down softly at Willington. “We’re concentrating on the league this season.” So say the voices at Whitley Park, trying ever so hard not to sound disingenuous. However, it will always come across that

way in the wake of a knockout defeat - particularly when Celtic have already exited four cups before Christmas. Only one shot remained; the Northern League Cup, a minor moneyspinner should the draw fall in our favour. After a handful of disappointing performances saw Allotment drop points and places to their promotion rivals, a midweek cup tie might have been last on the wishlist. However, it is worth remembering that a strong run to the EA Cup final last year coincided with a breathtaking resurgence in the league. Success in both formats is not mutually exclusive; if anything, victory in one of the many other competitions can give that exalted promotion push a timely boost. It was fitting that Celtic’s only hope of collecting cup silverware would depend upon a result against Northallerton Town, beaten finalists at the Glamal Stadium in last year’s final, seeking revenge for the 3-1 reverse. This was not a momentous occasion played out before hundreds of desperately passionate supporters. Neither side could be considered at full strength; some of Town’s players

were held up in traffic, delaying kick-off by fifteen minutes, but the club’s most important component - its notoriously vocal twelfth man - did not venture up the A19. After twenty-five minutes, nobody could blame them for staying in Yorkshire, as Sean Reid, in a more advanced role, grabbed a quickfire hat-trick. The visitors were reeling, and a further goal from Michael Bell put Celtic 4-1 up at half-time in a daunting display of clinical finishing. Reid soon helped himself to a fourth before making his way from the field. Sky’s cameras were there to capture the action, and, despite his desperate pleas - “Don’t say I work at Greggs. I’m not a baker - I work in the warehouse!” - the Tyne & Wear lads couldn’t pass up the golden opportunity to indulge in a spot of wordplay. The baker boy’s job may have been done, but Celtic’s was not, and a late push from Town against a flagging side yielded two nerve-inducing goals for Town. Allotment saw the game out, keeping their cup hopes alive. What’s more, the mercurial performances of Reid, Bell and Connor Graham may give the manager some food for thought.

goal of the weekA tough call between Reid’s third - an inch-perfect free-kick - and his fourth, a delightfully deft chip over the ‘keeper.

man of the weekReidy deservedly gets the headlines, but he was pushed close by Graham, who looks to be one of Celtic’s most exciting new prospects.

on this day...

Allotment fought a duel away to Scotswood Nomads in the NFA Minor Cup. Two goals from Miller were just enough to earn Celtic a replay that was duly won 3-0 one week later at the Farm Ground in West Allotment. Jimmy McDonald grabbed two of the goals in the replay and Oliver also got his name on the scoresheet. Celtic went on to win the Minor Cup that season, beating Stamfordham in a replayed final.

1957

1968Celtic’s season of bizarre scorelines continued with a 4-4 draw away to Parsons Athletic in the Northern Amateur League. The Allotment goals were scored by Halliday (2), Taylor and McMenemy. This result was Celtic’s second 4-4 draw of the season and was complemented with three 3-3 scorelines as well as a 16-0 cup victory and a 4-6 defeat at Old Heatonians!

Goals from Ridley, Ainsley and Buzzeo guided Celtic to a 3-1 win over Gosforth St.Nicholas at Backworth in an Alliance fixture. This result came in the middle of an unbeaten run in

the league that ultimately stretched to ten games. However, any pretensions to the Alliance title were sent crashing by a run of nine matches without a league victory, a sequence that,

ironically, followed straight on from the successful run.

1985

West Allotment Celtic v Thornaby 22

1974Allotment met Ponteland United in a Northern Amateur League game. Goals from Jimmy Wilson and Ray Taylor edged Celtic to a narrow 2-1 win. Celtic were still unbeaten in the league at this point and the win over Ponteland was their seventh league success from eight games played, with the other match having been drawn.

Hapless Birtley were walloped 8-0 at Whitley Park in a Northern Alliance League Cup match. Michael Chilton scored four while Scott Bell (2), David Malone and Nicky Gray also found the net. Having crushed Newcastle BT 7-1 in the previous round, Allotment were clearly intent on winning the competition, which they duly did by beating Newcastle Benfield in the final some five months

later.

Stephen Allott looks at this day in the club’s extensive history

Old rivals Ponteland United visited a rain-lashed Hillheads to meet Allotment in the first round of the Northern Alliance Challenge Cup. The conditions were foul but both teams ignored the wind and wet to produce an entertaining match that remained in the balance until the very end.

Early on, following a corner, Steve Baxter almost scored for the visitors with a vicious shot from thirty yards but he was denied by a goal-line clearance from Jimmy Moses. However, Celtic’s reprieve was short-lived. After twenty-two minutes, Jarrod Suddick exchanged passes with Paul Hogg before blasting the ball past Dave Marshall from just inside the penalty area. George Caithness almost equalised before half-time but his shot cannoned to safety off the angle of the crossbar and post.

It didn’t take too long after the restart for the home side to level matters. Jimmy Moses, this time operating in his more normal half of the pitch, latched on to a pass that caught out the United defence and the ever-reliable striker coolly dribbled the ball around the keeper and into the goal. Yet, to the frustration of the Celtic supporters, the visitors were back in front within two minutes. Once again, Suddick was the instigator as his low cross was slid into his own goal by Peter Anderson.

Ponteland were put under intense pressure following their second goal. Both Moses and Caithness somehow had efforts scrambled off the line when another equaliser seemed inevitable. Typically, the visitors then stole away to increase their lead. Steve O’Hagan was the scorer, firing home after a free-kick taken by that man Suddick. There was still time for a frantic finish, sparked by a Moses free-kick that curled into the United goal just two minutes from full-time. Despite a frenetic surge from Allotment, it was too late and Ponteland staggered through to the next round of the competition.

1996

2002

on this day 23

Tow Law Town

a

ttack

m

idfie

ld

de

fenc

e

g

k

name

Chris Bannon Ryan BealBob Rodgerson

John Pendlebury Marc Dummett Chris DouglasSimon Wilthew Paul StonemanStephen Little Michael LatimerGlenn FordRoy Gordon

David BorleyIan Dunn Michael Bell Marc AllenSean ReidBernat RocaBart Oliver-Berga Kallum McGlenDavid HendersonTony LancasterDean LeeConnor Graham

Liam Hudson David DormandLawrence McKenna

apps

912

5 (2)

20 (2)16 (1)21 (2)1 (1)2215

2 (3)12

7 (7)

124 (1)14 (4)6 (6)23 (1)1 (2)1 (3)8 (7)18 (1)0 (2)12 (1)2 (6)

17 (3)18 (5)8 (8)

yel

200

121121000

030121001010

100

red

000

000011000

001000000000

000

asts

000

035031101

005030022002

1032

player statisticstop scorers

the playmakers

the mainstays

the bad boys

average starting XIBeal

StonemanLittlePendlebury Dummett

Dormand

Hudson

Dunn Henderson

Reid

Sean Reid - 20Ian Dunn - 6

David Dormand - 6

Liam Hudson - 10Michael Bell - 5

Chris Douglas - 5

Ian Dunn - 24Sean Reid - 23

Paul Stoneman - 22

Paul Stoneman - 1 1Michael Bell - 0 1Alex Nisbet - 0 1

Douglas

gls

000

111022000

0651200110030

664

West Allotment Celtic v Thornaby the player statistics24

AUGUST 10th

14th

17th

21st

24th

30th

SEPTEMBER 4th

7th

11th

14th

18th

21st

28th

OCTOBER 5th

9th

12th

16th

19th

26th

30th

NOVEMBER1st

5th

8th

12th

16th

23rd

27th

30th

DECEMBER6th

14th

21st

28th

JANUARY4th

10th

18th

31st

FEBRUARY8th

15th

22nd

MARCH1st

8th

15th

22nd

28th

APRIL5th

12th

18th

26th

TBD

NL D2NL D2FA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2FA VaseNL D2NL D2Lg CupFA VaseNL D2

NL D2NFA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2EA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2Lg CupNL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2


NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2


NL D2

AAAAHH

HHAHHAA

AHHHAHH

AAHAAHHH

HHAH

AHAA

HAH

HAHAH

AHAA

A

W 4-0L 3-2L 4-0W 2-0W 3-2W 3-1

W 2-1W 4-3D 3-3D 1-1W 1-0L 4-1W 4-0

L 3-1L 2-1W 2-1W 3-2W 4-2D 0-0W 3-0

W 2-1L 4-1L 5-3D 0-0W 3-2D 2-2W 5-3

Alnwick TownHeaton StanningtonBillingham SynthoniaWillingtonStokesley SCWhickham

Seaham Red StarStokesley SCNorton & StocktonEsh WinningRyton & CrawcrookPenrithDarlington RA

WhitehavenAlnwick TownBirtley TownTow Law TownRyton & CrawcrookNorth ShieldsNorthallerton Town

Brandon UnitedWillingtonJarrow RoofingChester-le-StreetWashingtonChester-le-StreetNorthallerton TownThornaby

Heaton StanningtonWillingtonSeaham Red StarNorton & Stockton

Tow Law TownAlnwick TownStokesley SCWhickham

South ShieldsEsh WinningDarlington RA

WhitehavenBirtley TownRyton & CrawcrookNorthallerton TownBrandon United

Jarrow RoofingWashingtonNorth ShieldsThornaby

South Shields

fixtures andresults

nl div 2 table

OFFICIAL NORTHERNLEAGUE SPONSORS

fixtures, results, table 25

North ShieldsHeaton StanSeahamWACNort & StockJarrowNorthallertonDarlo RAWillingtonBirtleyTow LawCh-le-StreetSouth ShieldsWhickhamWhitehavenStokesleyWashingtonThornabyAlnwickBrandonEsh WinningRyton

12345678910111213141516171819202122

20212120221823222019222119202023212120242221

141413121112111199986776655542

4325736453368424344323

2463436767

10759

1113121211161616

5618251817291911486-4-42

-16-18-25-13-18-25-53-37

4645414140393937323030302625232221191918149

team pl w d l gd pts

rottweiler’s notes

West Allotment Celtic v Thornaby rottweiler’s notes26

Apart from Morgan, a quiet day. Was supposed to attend a dinner tonight with Paul Merson as guest speaker, but unfortunately I did not feel well enough to attend.

What goes into the player’s half time drinks? Once again, after battering our visitors today, we come out and don’t perform in the second half. In the end, fortunate to escape with a point against Chester-le-Street, who have never beaten us in 16 games. An amazing record which nearly disappeared today.

Morgan and I go out for the day. As we are approaching Whitehouse Farm (Morpeth) she decides she doesn’t want to visit the farm. We end up looking for crabs on the rocks at St Mary’s Island and boy was it cold.

Another day shopping, then in the evening, attend East Northumberland Youth Division meeting and if I thought yesterday was cold, well it was even colder at The Seahorse (Whitley Bay FC Clubhouse). Not the first time, they haven’t had the heating on when I have attended meetings there.

What is the matter with Alan Powles (Referees Secretary)? We have three home games in December and an assistant referee on each game has replied stating they had closed the date with him. More bloody work when the assistants are replaced and I am still waiting to be informed who the referee will be for tomorrow’s game. I can think of some choice words, though if I print them, the bugger will be on to defend him. I do know what is involved, as I looked after both divisions for eleven years - and email wasn’t used then. In the evening, chair Discipline Commission. Having sat on discipline commissions for 28 years, I believe that I met the most honest footballer in 28 years, and his honesty certainly helped his case. After discipline commission, attend weekly committee meeting.

Lowest crowd of the season and at last we did what we have threatened to do all season - score goals. Leading 5 – 1, our management team took off Sean Reid after 70 minutes who had been scoring goals (4) for fun. We have one more game left in November and already Sean has scored 20 goals.

Committee

meeting

8pmRingtheBloodhound!

22nd

Nov

23rd

Nov

24th

Nov

25th

Nov

26th

Nov

27th

Nov

RingtheBloodhound! 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.

www.westallotmentcelticfc.com

Michael DUFFDanny BRANDHAMBradley WRIGHTStephen MORRISON (c)Robert PEARSONLee BYTHEWAYSean DAVIESChristopher BURTONCraig WINTERIan BISHOPIain BICKERSTAFFMichael MURPHYLee ALEXANDERCallum WILSONGerard LIVINGSTONERichard WALKERDavid JOHNSONRicky PHILLIPSDaniel McQUIRESam ENGLANDJamie BLYTHDavid WELLSGavin SIMCOXJonathan BURTONDavid ONIONSJoseph MELVIN

Chris BANNONRyan BEAL

Bob RODGERSONJohn PENDLEBURY

Marc DUMMETTStephen LITTLE

Paul STONEMANGlenn FORD

Simon WILTHEWChris DOUGLASMichael LATIMER

Roy GORDONIan DUNN (c)

Marc ALLENDavid HENDERSON

Michael BELLSean REID

David BORLEYBernat ROCA

Bart OLIVER-BERGAKallum McGLEN

Tony LANCASTERDean LEE

Connor GRAHAMLiam HUDSON

David DORMANDLawrence McKENNA

Jed FNDLAY

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