WAC programme - Whickham

allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

THOMASPOTTER

david dormandHard worker, top scorer - and Celtic’s

fair play representative?

Club Sponsor

EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO FRIDAY 30TH AUGUST 2013

whickham

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Club OfficialsPresidentChairmanVice-ChairmanSecretaryTreasurerCommercial

Committee

Press Officer

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 LiddleMichael Wilson

Les ScottKath Orr

Harry BellStephen AllottRichie Marks

Craig Dobson

Paul StonemanWilf KieltyPaul Hogg

Charlotte Ferguson

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

20051957, 1975

199320052013

contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the last meeting

the preview

the visitors

the feature

the manager

on this day

the onion bag

the player statistics

fixtures, results, table

rottweiler’s notes

the squads

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6

9

10

12

14

16

18

20

22

23

24

25

26

28

welcome18

16 14

12

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

Tel: 01670 591 100www.thomaspotter.com

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 Whickham4

...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.

5


the squad

CB Simon WilthewCB Glenn FordCB Stephen LittleCB Paul StonemanRB John Pendlebury

GK Chris BannonGK Ryan BealGK Bob Rodgerson

Chris BannonGK Age: 27

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: 28

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: 26

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

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: 28

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.

RB Chris DouglasLB Marc DummettCB Michael LatimerCM Roy GordonCM Ian Dunn

CM Marc AllenCM David HendersonCM Michael BellCM Sean ReidRM Kallum McGlen

RM Tony LancasterLM Dean LeeST David DormandST Lawrence McKennaST Liam Hudson

ST Jed FindlayST Ryan Anderson

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 Whickham 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.


24TH AUGUST 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

Despite a mediocre performance, West

Allotment Celtic made it three wins in four, scoring two late goals to overcome Stokesley at a rain-soaked Whitley Park.

Though they dominating in the possession stakes, Paul Stoneman’s side failed to test SSC ‘keeper Thomas Laverick in the first thirty minutes, with Dean Lee’s blocked effort and a harmlessly wide shot from Marc Allen constituting Allotment’s only real attempts on goal.

Instead, Stokesley were presented with the first genuine opening of the match. Gerard Richardson believed he was unlawfully knocked to the floor in the box, but sloppy play

moments later gifted Andrew Lambert a clear sight of goal, only for the attacker to sky the opportunity.

When the visitors did get an effort on target, Ryan Beal was there to keep the scores level. A skidding long-range effort from Matthew Robinson looked destined for the bottom corner, only for Beal to tip the fast-travelling ball past the far post.

Chances were at a premium, largely down to a distinct lack of creativity on both sides, but it was Allotment who seized the initiative, courtesy of David Dormand. The forward rose unmarked to meet Liam Hudson’s high cross from the right, directing his looped header into the top corner.

the last match

The home side could have been pulled back before the interval, as Dunn played the ball straight to Richardson just outside the box, but made amends with a fantastic last-ditch tackle.

Allotment were fortunate to be ahead at the break, but the lead did not last long upon their return for the second half. A ricocheted Glenn Ford clearance broke kindly for Richardson, who placed his pinpoint strike into the bottom corner.

It soon went from bad to worse for Allotment. Right-back Daniel Jones went unnoticed in the penalty area, heading home a looping cross to complete a quickfire turnaround in the visitors’ favour.

West Allotment Celtic 3 Stokesley 2

the last match 11

24TH AUGUST 2013 EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

...in picturesStunned into action, Celtic almost pegged their plucky opponents back immediately. After the referee ignored calls for a penalty in the hosts’ favour, Glenn Ford was presented with an unlikely yard of space on the edge of the box, but his curling shot evaded Laverick’s far post by the tightest of margins. Liam Hudson had another penalty appeal turned down - this time for the use of a hand to block his goalbound shot - but an equaliser looked increasingly unlikely.

Any chance of getting back into the match would likely come from a set-piece - and so it proved ten minutes from time. Ian Dunn nipped ahead of Laverick to get a vital touch to Michael Bell’s knockdown from a corner, and the covering defender could not prevent the ball from crossing the line.

Having underperformed in an attacking capacity for much of the match, Celtic pressed for all three points, but any renewed hope of a win seemed to dissipate when Hudson skewed a good chance wide. Stokesley were understandably content to slow the pace, but their gameplan was undone by a foul thirty yards from goal. Up stepped left-back Marc Dummett, who curled a spectacular free-kick around the wall and into the opposite top corner, sparking an impassioned pile-on next to the dugout.

West Allotment Celtic v Whickham the last meeting12

24TH OCTOBER 2012 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WHITLEY PARK

On a wet and windy Wednesday evening

at Whitley Park, West Allotment Celtic emerged victorious, winning 2-1 against Whickham.

Despite the adverse weather, Allotment started brightly. The hosts could have taken an early lead, had Liam Hudson not slipped in a prime shooting position, whilst a Dean Lee cross-shot just evaded forward David Dormand at the back post.

The less-than-ideal conditions almost worked against Celtic minutes later, as Stephen Little took an untimely tumble to the turf. Scott Swanston looked to be in on goal, but the centre-half recovered in time to spare his own blushes.

Instead, it was Paul Stoneman’s side who benefitted from the rain, as a harmless Dummett shot skidded into the path of Dormand, who took one touch to control before finishing confidently past ‘keeper Scott Cresswell.

Both sides proceeded to hit the woodwork, with Hudson’s volley from a trademark Dormand throw rattling the crossbar, before Zak Atkinson struck the post at the other end, before the young forward forced Beal into making a fine diving save to keep out a goalbound effort.

Atkinson was involved in Whickham’s leveller, his shot ricocheting off defender Liam Poppleton and through the crowd of bodies in the penalty

the last home meeting

area.

Allotment reasserted their grip on a slippery game after the break, and went ahead once again - courtesy of another weather-induced error. The ball deflected off goalscorer Poppleton into the path of Hudson, who raced through on goal and made no mistake with his finish.

There was still time for Whickham to get back into the match, but they rarely threatened. Indeed, Celtic should have made the game safe on two occasions, but Cresswell made two fine stops to deny both Reid and McGlen in the dying stages. The impressive Atkinson nodded wide at the death, but all three points went to the hosts.

West Allotment Celtic 2 Whickham 1

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the pre-match preview

West Allotment Celtic head into

tonight’s game knowing that they must improve on their previous performance if they are to stand any chance of defeating Whickham.

Despite bouncing back to good form last Wednesday at Willington, the weekend’s showing was not up to scratch, with goals from Ian Dunn and Marc Dummett bailing Allotment out of jail when Stokesley came to town.

Allotment ultimately nicked

A t this early juncture, Tyneside outfit

Whickham have been classed as Division Two’s dark horses in many quarters.

The Home Guard were unbeaten in their first four games, building on a 1-1 draw at Brandon United with a 2-0 win at home to Darlington R.A., with Leon Barnett and Tony Thirkell grabbing one goal apiece.

Stokesley - Allotment’s most recent opponents - were next up. The Yorkshire hosts were, by their own

a 3-2 win, and had to do so without influential centre-mid Sean Reid. Fortunately, the 21-year-old is set to return to the squad, along with the in-form flanker Chris Douglas. The game comes too soon for Stephen Little and Tony Lancaster, but David Henderson continues to make progress, with the pod being removed from his previously broken hand.

Goalkeeper Ryan Beal succeeded the impressive Chris Bannon for Saturday’s encounter, but the latter could well find

admission, not up to scratch, allowing Whickham to romp to a comfortable 3-0 win.

Even when Robin Falcus’ men had to make the 200-mile round trip to the west coast, their form came along for the ride. Whitehaven, the most distant of NL teams, were the hosts, but could not prevent Whickham from securing an impressive 3-2 victory in Cumbria.

The impressive run came to an end only last week at Jarrow Roofing. Despite going ahead on two occasions, the Roofers

ultimately won the game 4-3 - a tough result for Whickham to take, considering they matched the hotly-tipped promotion favourites. However, they got their season right back on track with an emphatic 5-0 drubbing of Washington in their own back yard.

Worringly, Whickham’s goals have been scored by no fewer than ten different scorers, including Ross Peareth, Sam MacIntosh and Alex White from midfield. Celtic’s back four may have their work cut out at Whitley Park this evening.

himself between the sticks tonight, should the rotation policy between the two top stoppers continue.

Both winger Kallum McGlen and forward Lawrence McKenna have been unavailable for the past two games, but only the former is back in contention.

With a strengthened squad at his disposal, player-manager Paul Stoneman can expect a big performance from his starting eleven in what may be the most difficult game of the season thus far.

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the preview 15

statattack

5

75The attendance for the last meeting at Whitley Park

The largest winning margin;a 5-0 win for Whickham inOct 2012

The number of points separating the sides last season

36

10Number of different goalscorers for Whickham so far

The coveted Sean Reid will return to the squad tonight. Last time out at Willington, “Reidy” helped himself to a match-winning brace. Celtic often play their best football with the 21-year-old on the pitch, and hewill undoubtedly have a big impact this evening.

Lethal striker Tony Thirkell has already bagged two goals this season against Darlington R.A. and Stokesley in consecutive matches. He’s not the only goalscorer in the Whickham squad, with Liam Barnett, Anthony Falcon and Steven Aiston all capable of finding the back of the net.

previous meetings

P W D L F A 3 2 0 1 5 5 3 2 0 1 8 6 6 4 0 2 13 11


The club was formed in 1944 under the name of Axwell Park Colliery Welfare, although they were colloquially termed the Home Guard Team! In the early days they played in the Derwent Valley League, before switching to the Northern Combination and, in 1974, to the Wearside League. Whickham enjoyed quite a degree of success at this level before joining the Northern League Second Division in 1988.

Having reached the Semi Final of the FA Vase in 1978/79 losing to Almondsbury Greenway, it was in 1981 that Whickham had their finest hour, going all the way to the Twin Towers in the final of the FA Vase, after a titanic struggle, to overcome Windsor & Eton in the semi Final. An estimated 5,000 fans looked on as Whickham overhauled a two-goal deficit against fellow finalist Willehnhall, with a Billy Cawthra strike bringing the prestigious non-league trophy back to Gateshead.

Whickham again nearly reached Wembley in 1983/84 before losing in their 3rd Semi Final. In a controversial game in the 2nd leg at home against Stansted, two Whickham players were dismissed in a bad-tempered game.

After just one season in Division Two under the management of Billy Hodgson the club gained promotion for the first time into Division One in 1988/89, spending three seasons there before suffering relegation in 1992. Another promotion came with their Second Division title in 1994/95, before another relegation two seasons later consigned Whickham to the lower tier, where they have remained since.

After Billy’s reign, the club struggled to find its identity and, with funds really tight, they struggled to compete. Although three or four managers took over, the club found itself in a perilous position in 1999/00 when, without the intervention of manager Tony Ainley, the club was in grave danger of going out of business. Tony’s reign started with no players and no money, and although his first two seasons were really about survival, the club was once again safely settled in the Northern League.

In recent years, the club has undertaken major changes, and the hard work was rewarded when the club found itself in the final of the prestigious Durham Challenge Cup, having defeated four Division One sides on the way. Despite being second best for long spells against a very good Billingham Synthonia side, two late goals from Kenny Boyle and Ian Robson snatched Whickham an amazing victory.

The following season the club won the newly named Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup, defeating Penrith in an exciting penalty shootout. In the last two seasons, the Home Guard have finished in the bottom half of the Division Two table, but will be looking to break into the top ten by late April.

the history

whickham football club

The visitors 17

John Mordey26-year-old stopper Mordey spent last season at Ryton & Crawcrook Albion. The ‘keeper almost single-handedly prevented Celtic from picking up all three points at Kingsley Park last season, and will be hoping to do the same today.

Michael HedleyThe experienced centre-half, a member of Whickham’s Durham Challenge Cup-winning side, has returned to the Home Guard, having spent one season at Tyne and Wear neighbours Jarrow Roofing.

Craig CavanaghThe younger of the two Cavanaghs at the club, centre-half Craig has become a fixture in the first team, with the 26-year-old making 30 appearances for Whickham last year.

Mark PattisonA graduate from Whickham’s junior system, left-back Mark spent three years in the USA, but has returned to stake a claim for a regular place in the back four.

Paul CavanaghA Whickham mainstay for over a decade since signing in 1999, club man and elder sibling Paul is still an important figure at The Glebe, putting in a shift for his side whenever called upon.

Chris HeppleA versatile midfielder capable of playing anywhere across a midfield four, 29-year-old Chris has turned out for local rivals Birtley Town and Jarrow Roofing in the past, as well as County Durham side Crook Town.

Sam MacIntosh24-year-old Sam poses a genuine threat down the left flank, possessing what has been described as a “rocket of a left foot” - scoring seven goals with it last season.

Steven AistonAfter enjoying a successful debut season, bagging 14 goals, Aiston moved to Consett Town. Now back with the Home Guard, Steven will be looking to hit double figures once more.

Tony ThirkellThis year marks Tony’s fifth season with the club, having returned from Jarrow Roofing. The side’s most prolific scorer rougly averages one goal per two games, having hit the target 55 times in under 100 appearances for the Tynesiders.

Ian RobsonVeteran centre-forward Robson has bags of Wearside League experience, and played under Monty Alexander at New Marske along with his brother Michael. Shaun will undoubtedly add strength to Stokesley’s forward line.

Ross Peareth21-year-old central midfielder Peareth has come on leaps and bounds since his debut in 2009, earning the attention of Newcastle Benfield. Now back at Whickham, Ross will look to impress in his second spell.

the players

whickham football club

West Allotment Celtic v Whickham 18

dorma the deadly... or the disciplinarian?HE BAGGED THIRTY GOALS FOR WEST ALLOTMENT LAST SEASON, BUT NOW, DAVID DORMAND HAS ANOTHER GOAL IN HIS SIGHTS - A GOOD PERFORMANCE IN THE FAIR PLAY LEAGUE

AT Whitley Park, David Dormand is considered to be a number of things. Some would call him a clinical finisher; others point out that he is a hard worker for the team; and almost everyone will testify about his Jack the Lad character.

But before last week, very few would call him a staunch advocate of fair play and the correct use of language. It should not be that surprising. Last season, Dorma was one of just three players to play over twenty games and not enter the referee’s book, along with Chris Douglas and John Pendlebury. Dormand has started this season in the same manner, following in the footsteps of a rather famous crisp salesman and ex-England international. Until referees are allowed to caution players for repeated offside indiscretions, the poacher’s Celtic record will remain blemish-free.

One of the club’s main disciplinary issues - and one which blights most clubs in the Northern

League - is foul and profane language. The

uttering (or, more often, screaming) of

vulgar obscenities keeps children and young

families from attending - and it’s something that

the League has tried valiantly to combat via

the Secret Shopper initiative. Some players

at the club are more inclined to swear like

dockers in the heat of the moment. Others,

like fellow fair play champion Pendlebury, not so much. During

one game, the increasingly frustrated full-back bellowed out

a blue curse word in the vicinity of a female supporter. Despite play

continuing, John took the time to apologise

mid-game to the visiting fan for his language, insisting that he had

been swearing at himself. Or so the anecdote

goes.

Rare indiscretions can be forgiven, but for too

The same cannot be said of the club in general. As mentioned in his notes, secretary Ted Ilderton was far from impressed with the opening day’s disciplinary yield, with a 4-0 win coming at the expense of two yellow cards: one for a Dean Lee challenge, and another for a disputed foul by ‘keeper Chris Bannon on the edge of the area. Despite the club topping the table that night, the same issue clearly irked the lone forward. “Unfortunately two bookings though, guys,” he said to his teammates in an email. “Let’s really try and go for this fair play as well.”

“Let’s make an effort to put this right. Although frustrating, there’s no

need for this language. Let’s do the talking on the

pitch.”

the feature 19

dorma the deadly... or the disciplinarian?HE BAGGED THIRTY GOALS FOR WEST ALLOTMENT LAST SEASON, BUT NOW, DAVID DORMAND HAS ANOTHER GOAL IN HIS SIGHTS - A GOOD PERFORMANCE IN THE FAIR PLAY LEAGUE

many players, the foul language is habitual. It’s a problem that affects otherwise upstanding clubs, as evidenced during our trip to Willington last Wednesday. One home supporter - and former player - unleashed a torrent of abuse towards our committee over a disputed free-kick, using words that would make a docker blush. Again, Dorma took up the initiative, fighting his club’s corner in correspondence with Mike

Amos. “I heard this man shouting from on the pitch, and although I couldn’t hear exactly what he was saying, it was quite off-putting and i can imagine quite intimidating,” he told the Northern League Chairman.

Willington sent a full, frank and very much appreciated apology - but only half of the issues were related to one isolated member of the home support. Allotment had been pulled up themselves for their language on the pitch, scoring just 3 out of 5 in the Secret Shopper report. And, for the clean-cut striker, that simply would not do.“Lads! Let’s make an effort to put this right. Although frustrating, there’s no need for this language. Let’s do the talking on the pitch. As a player’s representative, I will speak to the boys tomorrow about improving on our side of this.”

And speak he did. The players seemed to have heeded the message in his email, with a much-improved vocal performance against Stokesley, but Dorma drove home the message after the match. “We need to talk about this bad language,” he started, before singling out a number of offenders. He noted that Dean Lee would have to stop “scrunching his ginger face at the referee”, before taking to task the club captain for his four-letter indiscretion four days earlier. He concluded by urging his fellow team-mates to brush up on their conduct.

The wise words from within the players’ camp should please the committee, not least former ref Ted. Should the squad heed Dormand’s sound advice, there should be no reason why West Allotment can’t top both tables come May.

“If I catch any of you swearing, I’ll want three quid put in the players’

pool!”

West Allotment Celtic v Whickham the manager20

Stokesley Sports Club

I read the script before the game. I said to the lads “make sure you don’t take this for granted”, and I think we did. We thought we’d just have to turn up and we’d get the three points. To be fair, after the ninety minutes, I feel a little bit sorry for Stokesley, as I thought they deserved at least a draw from the game. the second half showing

We were awful first half, we didn’t deserve to be coming in 1-0 up at half-time. I had a bit of a pop at them at half-time, said make sure we go out on the front foot, work hard for forty-five minutes. If we did everything right for forty-five minutes, we’d win the game comfortably. We didn’t. We came out sloppy again and conceded two goals, two quickfire goals, which isn’t good enough. I want us to tighten up this season. Today we’ve let in two goals, bad goals as well, so I’m not really happy at all. I thought we’d

regroup, but we didn’t. The lads just went out there with the same attitude, and I can’t accept that. If we’re playing against another team on another day, we’d get turned over.

Marc Dummett

Marc has consistently been one of our best players since I took over at West Allotment. Very rarely does he put a poor performance in. He doesn’t score many goals, but what a way to finish the game, a thirty yard free-kick right in the top corner. As soon as he hit it, I thought it was going to be close. I’m chuffed for him.

the overall assessment

I thought we were awful from start to finish, but on the positive side, we played awful and still got three points. That’s the only plus point, I think; the way we kept going for ninety minutes. But despite playing on a pitch like that, the football we were playing was very limited. So I’m very disappointed with the performance, but happy with the result in the end.

tonight’s game

It is a tough game, and I’m sure we’ll be absolutely fine on Friday night. The lads will realise that it’s going to be a tough game and they’ll lift their game, and that’s what I don’t like. Today they thought it was going to be a breeze, and they got a shock. On Friday we’ll turn up, we’ll be expecting a hard game, and I’m sure our lads will be up for it. We will have a few bodies back on Friday night, as we missed a few players today, I think there’s six or seven away. But it is a big game, they’re doing well, and I think we’ll raise our game. We’ll have to.

“We’ll raise our game on Friday night”

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22 West Allotment Celtic v Whickham on this day

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

Allotment drew 1-1 away to Willington St.Aidans in a Northern Amateur League clash. Celtic had had another poor start to the season, losing five of their initial seven league matches and drawing the other two.

1952Nine days after being thumped 0-7 away to Percy Main Amateurs, Allotment crashed at

home to the same club, Main hitting five goals without reply. This result was just one in an

appalling opening to the season for Celtic.who lost their opening eight league games, conceding

40 goals and scoring just six in the process..

1967

1978Celtic lost for the second time in their opening four league games.

Longbenton inflicted the damage, as they travelled to Backworth and won by two goals to one. Wilf Webb got Allotment’s goal. This

proved to be Allotment’s last league defeat until the following April - an unbeaten run of eighteen matches. However, even this fine run

was not enough to end Celtic’s eighteen-year drought with regard to winning the Northern Amateur League title.

Celtic shared eight goals away to Dudley Welfare in a Northern Alliance fixture. Ian Chater notched a hat-trick and the other strike came from Terry Southeran. This was the only point that Celtic dropped in their opening six league games but it was to cost them dearly in the long-term. Dudley went on to have an atrocious season, including being walloped 9-1 in the return match with Allotment. If Celtic had won this early season game then, eight months later, they would have won the Alliance championship instead of Seaton Delaval! 1989

Carlisle City were the midweek visitors to

Hillheads for a Northern Alliance clash between two of the early favourites for

the title. Alex Benjamin gave Allotment the lead but his

effort was quickly cancelled out by a strike from Mike

Algeo for the Sky Blues. And, despite a lot of huff and puff from both teams, that was

how it finished.

1993

the onion bag 23

goal of the weekDummett’s match-winning free-kick - a pearler that didn’t belong anywhere near the game itself.

man of the weekOn a day where quality was left wanting, Penders went about his business well at right-back.

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

“WHAT do you make of that, then?”

asked coach Paul Hogg as he sat down with his post-match meal. He promptly answered his own question with one four-letter word. It was hardly complimentary. Saturday’s game was Allotment’s first in front of our home fans, having spent all of July and most of August going around the doors. A few fans pottered over to nearby neighbours Heaton Stan, only to witness a mediocre performance against the newly-promoted outfit. If anything, a rather worrying correlation could be mapped from the opening four games; the further Celtic travel from their North Tyneside nest, the better they perform. The Billingham performance was leagues ahead of that at Heaton, despite the misleading 4-0 scoreline, and we picked up solid wins when travelling thirty-five miles north, to Northumberland outpost Alnwick, and south, to the former pit-town of Willington. A return to Whitley Park, far and away the best-kept football pitch in the division, was eagerly anticipated - and not just by the supporters.

The players were awaiting the opportunity to “express themselves”, as manager Paul Stoneman so eloquently put it. Fewer long balls over the top; more passing along the deck; fast flowing football with greater incisiveness in the final third. Celtic returned to their footballing home for the first time in four long months, and their form would surely follow. Unfortunately, it was not to be, and the first home performance did little to buck the trend. A promising opening period soon gave way to more of the same, as Allotment failed to muster any real chances on goal in the first thirty minutes. Yet just as the visitors finally looked to trouble Ryan Beal, they found themselves behind, as Celtic’s first attempt on goal found the target. Despite a bountiful pre-season, Dormand had gone without a goal in the opening four games. It was always a matter of if rather than when, and a fine looping header opened his account for the campaign - and, more importantly, put Celtic up at half-time. Those five minutes after the restart are often the longest for Allotment fans, and so it proved once more, as the

hosts threw away the lead well before the hour mark. There must be something in that half-time tea. In damp conditions, Allotment had to battle, but an equaliser looked unlikely until Dunny scrambled in with less than ten minutes on the clock. The unfortunate lad on the line looked to have it covered, but only succeeded in slicing it behind him. One for the dubious goals panel, perhaps - but good luck telling that to the captain! There was still time to nick the win, as undeserved and unlikely as that was, until Dummett was handed a free-kick thirty yards from goal. The resulting finish was more emphatic - and more important - than his magical set-piece at Horden last season. The ensuing celebrations were borne of relief as much as joy, having not so much salvaged three points, but stolen them from the unfortunate Yorkshiremen. The performance - to paraphrase Hoggy - was poor, but Celtic’s return home begins with a comforting - if not comfortable - three points.

West Allotment Celtic v Whickham the player statistics24

Tow Law Town

a

ttack

m

idfie

ld

def

ence

gk

name

Chris Bannon Ryan BealBob Rodgerson

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

Ian Dunn Michael Bell Marc AllenSean Reid Kallum McGlenDavid HendersonTony LancasterDean Lee

Liam Hudson David DormandJed FindlayRyan AndersonLawrence McKenna

apps

320

2 (1)54

0 (1)50

1 (2)5

0 (3)

55

1 (2)3

1 (1)0

0 (2)4

3500

1 (2)

yel

100

010000000

00000001

00000

red

000

000000000

00000000

00000

gls

000

110010000

20130000

01001

asts

000

001010000

02001000

10000

player statisticstop scorers

the playmakers

the mainstays

the bad boys

starting XIBannon

StonemanFordDouglas Dummett

Lee

Dormand

Hudson

Dunn Bell

Reid

Sean Reid - 3Ian Dunn - 2

Paul Stoneman - 1

Michael Bell - 2Chris Douglas - 1

Paul Stoneman - 1

Ian Dunn - 5Marc Dummett - 5

Glenn Ford - 5

Dean Lee - 1 0Chris Bannon - 1 0

Marc Dummett - 1 0

fixtures, results, table 25

AUGUST 10th

14th

17th

21st

24th

30th

SEPTEMBER 4th

7th

11th

14th

18th

21st

28th

OCTOBER 5th

9th

12th

19th

26th

30th

NOVEMBER1st

9th

16th

23rd

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 D2NL D2FA VaseNL D2

NFA CupNL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2


NL D2NL D2NL D2

NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2NL D2


Lg CupNL D2NL D2

AAAAHH

HHAHHAA

HAHAHH

AHAHH

HHAH

AHAA

HAH

HAHAH

AHAA

HAA

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

Alnwick TownHeaton StanningtonBillingham SynthoniaWillingtonStokesley SCWhickham

Seaham Red StarStokesley SCNorton & StocktonEsh WinningTow Law TownTBDDarlington RA

Alnwick TownChester-le-StreetBirtley TownRyton & CrawcrookNorth ShieldsNorthallerton Town

Brandon UnitedJarrow RoofingWashingtonChester-le-StreetThornaby

Heaton StanningtonWillingtonSeaham Red StarNorton & Stockton

Tow Law TownAlnwick TownStokesley SCWhickham

South ShieldsEsh WinningDarlington RA

WhitehavenBirtley TownRyton & CrawcrookNorthallerton TownBrandon United

Jarrow RoofingWashingtonNorth ShieldsThornaby

Ryton & CrawcrookSouth ShieldsChester-le-Street

fixtures andresults

Heaton StanWhickhamSeahamJarrowBirtleyNorth ShieldsNorthallertonAlnwickWACBrandonStokesleyWhitehavenNort & StockTow LawEsh WinningWillingtonCh-le-StreetDarlo RAThornabySouth ShieldsRytonWashington

12345678910111213141516171819202122

6655545646656566546456

5444333332221221110000

1100211102113002103211

0111001212322343333245

9101476

208-36-5-1-9-2-2

-11-5-4-3-5-5-5

-20

161312121110101098776645421111

team pl w d l gd pts

nl div 2 table

OFFICIAL NORTHERNLEAGUE SPONSORS

rottweiler’s notes

West Allotment Celtic v Whickham rottweiler’s notes26

Interview today for Chief Executive of NFA. For the past week, I’ve been receiving bad vibes from within NFA itself. Let’s hope my fears are wrong ,but they aren’t often wrong.

Informed today via email that I haven’t been successful; to say that I’m devastated is a complete understatement. After 28 years on the NFA Council, it is now time to review my future. Now, though, is not the time to make any decisions, as it will be seen as a fit of pique. Will wait until end of the month before I make a decision.

Well here we go again, and what a great start to the season with a four nil win at Alnwick. During the game Marc (Dummett) kicks the ball out of the ground, and the Alnwick manager shouts at the top of his voice, “Hey! Those balls cost £12!” Mind you, we also picked up two cautions and I am not amused. Those who were at the game will know who I am not amused with.

Attend West End Summer Charity Cup Final with the bloodhound. Once again (last year as well), Mick McDonough is running the line. How many other referees go from the Emirates Stadium to Blakelaw playing fields in less than 24 hours? Shows you the character of Mick, no big time Charlie like some of his colleagues on the Premier League.

Last week, I sent a ticket to my daughter who lives in Salford for Newcastle’s game with Manchester City. The ticket never arrived and today it arrives back at our house. The bloodhound comes to the rescue when I ask him if he knows of anyone going to the game. Thankfully he does, and David McMeekan (Morpeth Secretary) delivers the ticket to Emma in Manchester. After all the drama was it all worth it; Newcastle were an absolute shambles.

We earn are a hard earned 2 – 0 win against a very physical Willington. However, there was a very unsavoury incident, which, in over thirty years involvement in the Northern League, I have never come across before. The person involved can only be called a yob (and that’s me being nice) and there’s no place for him within Northern League football. When one is using the “C” in front of women, what can anyone say about this person’s intelligence?

Only have Morgan today, and we visit Saltwell Park and have a lovely day. In the evening have the pleasure of the bloodhound’s company when I am match assessor at Middlesbrough U21 v Newcastle Utd U21. How the game ended 4 – 3 to Middlesbrough I will never know - Middlesbrough should have won by seven or eight goals. What is going on at Newcastle? The first team is poor and this was just as bad.

A letter arrives from Geoff Siddle (Willington Secretary) apologising for the foul-mouthed yob’s behaviour, this I believe to be a very nice gesture. Somehow we manage to beat Stokesley 3 – 2 to earn the points today.

6th

Aug

7th

Aug

10th

Aug

18th

Aug

19th

Aug

21st

Aug

23rd

Aug

24th

Aug

Committee

meeting

8pmRingtheBloodhound!

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.

John MORDEYPeter ADNITTCraig CAVANAGHMark PATTISONLiam POPPLETONThomas SOUTARKris HOLMESJonathon LARKINJack MOULDINGNathan JOHNSTONEJohn MARTINAndrew FARREYChad COLLINSDavid FITZPATRICKThomas MARSHALLChris HEPPLERoss PEARETHRudi NELLISPaul CAVANAGHCraig ROOKSam MACINTOSHSteven AISTONLiam BARNETTIan ROBSONTony THIRKELLMatthew AITKINAnthony FALCON

Chris BANNONRyan BEAL

Bob RODGERSONJohn PENDLEBURY

Roy GORDONMarc DUMMETTMichael LATIMER

Stephen LITTLEPaul STONEMAN

Glenn FORDChris DOUGLAS

Ian DUNN (c)Marc ALLEN

David HENDERSONMichael BELL

Sean REIDKallum McGLEN

Tony LANCASTERDean LEE

Liam HUDSONDavid DORMAND

Jed FINDLAYRyan ANDERSON

Lawrence McKENNA

WestAllotment

Celtic

WhickhamFootballClub

Referee: M CONROY Assistants: F ANDERSON S BERESFORD

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