allotment WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2013/14

THOMASPOTTER

merry(belated)christmasand a happy

new year from all at Allotment

NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO SATURDAY 28TH DECEMBER 2013

norton & stockton ancients

Club Sponsor

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contentsthe history

the squad

the backroom staff

the last match

the preview

the visitors

twas the night before xmas

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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

editor’s noteOur very generous programme printers, Wade Financial, are closed for the festive period - hence the lack of up-to-date content! Normal service will be resumed when we host Alnwick Town on the 10th of January.

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 Norton & Stockton Ancients4

...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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West Allotment Celtic v Norton & Stockton Ancients6

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 Norton & Stockton Ancients 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.

West Allotment Celtic v Norton & Stockton Ancients10

11TH SEPTEMBER 2013 NORTHERN LEAGUE DIVISION TWO NORTON SPORTS COMPLEX

A NOTHER late goal from Sean Reid spared

West Allotment Celtic’s blushes, earning his side a 3-3 draw at Norton & Stockton Ancients.

The point was scant consolation for Paul Stoneman’s men, who faltered after a dominant first half, and had to dig deep just to avoid what seemed to be an unlikely defeat.

It was almost all one-way traffic in the first half, with Allotment very much in the driving seat. Only last-ditch defending denied Marc Dummett and Dean Lee the opportunity to shoot, whilst a teasing Sean Reid cross was almost headed in by a Norton defender.

Allotment were desperately unfortunate not to be ahead on the 23rd minute with their first effort on goal. David Dormand stooped to meet Chris Douglas’ corner at the near post, but his goalbound header was deflected away from the line by his marker, curling away from goal and the waiting green and white shirts.

Despite their subordination for much of the half, Norton reminded their opponents of the threat they possessed on the break. A defensive lapse allowed the Ancients to break forward, but Chris Bannon was equal to Gary Mitchell’s strike, poking the ball away with an outstretched leg.

Still, it was Celtic who played the better football throughout

the last meeting

the opening period. Lee shot straight at David Knight following some fine one-touch interplay with Reid, and, and the ‘keeper soon had his covering defender to thank for blocking a thumping Michael Bell strike that looked destined for the net.

Celtic were inches away from being awarded a penalty, when David Dormand was felled whilst running towards goal – with some believing that he was brought down inside the area.

When the goal came, it was inevitably the visitors who scored it. Liam Hudson’s relentless pressure on the right paid off, as he pickpocketed opposite number Matthew Bell, raced through on goal and

Norton & Stockton Ancients 3 West Allotment Celtic 3

11the last meeting

placed the ball beyond Knight.

The Ancients briefly stirred, testing Bannon with a well-struck free-kick from 25 yards out, but Allotment deservedly went into the break one goal to the good.

Another disastrous second half slump soon erased that advantage, as Norton turned it around in quickfire fashion right after the restart. First, Marc Dummett’s missed clearance allowed Nicholas Martin to flash a half-volley on the turn past Bannon.

Six minutes later, a John Pendlebury error allowed the Ancients to break down their left, with recent signing Sonny Andrews firing home to complete a rapid turnaround – much of which was Celtic’s own doing.

It could have become worse for an out of sorts Allotment as the game approached the hours mark, but Michael Jameson shot wide from a good position within the box, before testing Bannon with a dipping set-piece. Andrews failed to replicate his previous finish, instead firing down the throat of the Celtic ‘keeper, as Norton looked to extend their lead in a

rare purple patch.

On came David Henderson for the visitors, and his introduction contributed indirectly to Allotment’s equaliser. The wily midfielder sprayed a pass out wide for Hudson to deliver into the box. His powerful cross was expertly headed towards goal by Michael Bell, and, while Knight was able to parry it out, it fell into the path of the waiting Dormand, who made no mistake from within the six yard box.

For the last fifteen minutes, it looked as though only one side were capable of securing victory, as Allotment created – and spurned – a host of chances to complete a turnaround of their own. Bell and the influential Henderson had efforts saved by Knight, whilst Hudson dragged one effort wide and mishit another from close range. Allotment’s second penalty appeal of the evening – this time for a shirt pull on the frustrated Reid – was waved away by the officials.

Yet just as Celtic looked most likely to score, Norton & Stockton retook the lead. Caught cold after the awarding of a dubious free-

kick, Allotment’s backtracking defenders could not prevent the hosts from pouring down the right, allowing Andrews time to jink around Bannon and tap the ball into an empty net.

Just as the game seemed to have escaped from Allotment’s grasp, Liam Hudson swung another tempting low delivery across the face of goal. Reid got there at the near post just ahead of his marker, throwing himself towards the ball and sliding it across the line.

Though delighted with the late leveller, Allotment will be disappointed to have come away from Stockton with one solitary point instead of three, as individual errors and an untimely second half slump cost them what would have arguably been a deserved victory on the night.

The match report from the previous encounter against recently relegated Norton & Stockton Ancients, where the Teesside outfit held Celtic to a rollercoaster 3-3 draw at the Sports Complex.

West Allotment Celtic v Norton & Stockton Ancients12

the match preview

WEST Allotment Celtic could

continue their fine league form with a victory this afternoon, with Norton & Stockton Ancients the visitors at Whitley Park.

Allotment had embarked upon a six-game unbeaten run in the league prior to their trip to Seaham Red Star last Saturday, and will look to boost their promotion chances with a win against their fellow promotion rivals.

Celtic are expected to have the choice of Sean Reid, David Henderson and

MUCH like West Allotment three

years ago, Norton & Stockton Ancients are at the beginning of a rebuilding process, having been relegated from the Northern League’s top tier at the end of last season.

After two top half finishes and a solid mid-table placing in their first three Division One campaigns, Norton capitulated in dramatic fashion, propping up the other twenty-three teams by the end of the 2012/13 campaign, sixteen points adrift of safety.

Michael Bell for the two advanced midfield berths, but the side’s regular holding midfielder - and club captain, no less - will be missing this afternoon. Ever-reliable leader Ian Dunn serves a one-match suspension, leaving his customary role very much up for grabs.

Connor Graham is expected to be in the squad, whilst Dean Lee could once again be kept out of the side by the impressive Chris Douglas. Another winger working his way back is Tony Lancaster, having featured for the ‘A’ team in

The Ancients endured a baptism of fire upon their return to Division Two, coming up against Heaton Stan, Jarrow Roofing and Seaham Red Star in their first six games.

Starting with a 4-1 victory at Washington, Andy Campbell’s men finally hit their stride, with reverses against North Shields, Ryton and Northallerton proving to be little more than minor blips between September and December.

They pushed Jarrow Roofing all the way in the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup,

but even a Nicky Martin brace could not prevent the gutsy Teessiders from going down 4-3 in extra time.

Two goals from Dale Mulligan ensured that Norton returned to winning ways in the league against Chester-le-Street, before another trip to Boldon yielded little, the Roofers running out 3-1 victors on Tyneside.

Sitting in sixth at the time of writing, the Ancients could well bounce straight back up at the first time of asking, and will prove to be a stern test this afternoon.

recent weeks, and could be pressing for a return to the starting eleven.

The game may come too soon for the likes of Kallum McGlen and Marc Allen, whilst Lawrence McKenna and Chris Bannon remains out.

The captain aside, player-manager Paul Stoneman will expect to have a serviceable squad at his disposal. Celtic will expect to head into the New Year full of cheer, particularly if they take three points from another top three candidate.

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the preview 13

statattack

67The attendance for the last league meeting at Norton

No. of goals scored by Gary Mitchell and NickyMartin

League games without defeat for Allotment (before 21st December)

6

22Points picked up by Norton & Stockton onthe road

West Allotment Celtic’s midfield could already be considered stretched, with the likes of David Borley and Marc Allen slowly working their way back to fitness, but the biggest blow this afternoon will be the loss of holding midfielder and captain Ian Dunn, who serves a one-match suspension after accumulating five yellow cards this season.

Starts without a goal for Dormand before his strike against Willington

1423-year-old club captain Dale Mulligan is an Ancient through and through, and wears the armband with pride in the heart of Norton & Stockton’s defence. A strong presence with experience that belies his age, Allotment will have to beat Mulligan if they are to fire their way to three points.

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Statistics correct as of the 20th of December

norton & stockton

West Allotment Celtic v Norton & Stockton Ancients 14

THE origins of the Norton & Stockton Ancients date back to the late 1950s

when the Norton Cricket Club Trust decided to start a football section to provide a winter option for its members.

A club was formed and was accepted into the then very strong Teesside League. In 1968 the club, known as the Norton Cricket Club Trust FC, won its first silverware, the Durham Minor Cup. Over the following years the club won the North Riding Amateur Cup three times and the Teesside League Cup.

In 1980, following its winding up, the remaining assets of Stockton football club were transferred

to Norton. Members of the two boards agreed to form one club, Norton & Stockton Ancients FC—’Ancients’ being the recognised nickname of the Stockton club.

Norton & Stockton Ancients FC was a founding member of the Northern League Division Two in 1982. In 2009 it secured promotion to Division One and the following year reached the quarter finals of the F.A. Vase.

Also in 2010, the club topped its previous attendance record when a crowd of 1,526 watched the Ancients take on FC United of Manchester in the third qualifying round of the F.A. Cup.

the history

the visitors 15

Nickname: The AncientsGround: Norton Sports ComplexChairman: Mick Mulligan

Rivals: Thornaby, Stokesley, Billingham Town, SynthoniaLargest home crowd 2013/14: 91 v Heaton StanningtonDistance travelled today (approx.): 38 miles

David KnightThe 26-year-old came to the Complex with a strong reputation, the former England under-18 ‘keeper having come through Middlesbrough’s esteemed youth academy. Having turned out for Swansea, Darlington and York, amongst others, the shot stopper impressed whilst on loan from Spennymoor.

Dale MulliganFormerly of Darlington, defender Dale has commanded a place in Norton’s back four for over four years, turning out for the club throughout their tenure in the top tier. Still only 23, Mulligan will go from strength to strength in the coming seasons.

Daniel O’BrienAnother defender who has come through the ranks at Norton & Stockton, O’Brien was with the club during their initial promotion season in 2008/09, and is still there after their relegation last season. The right-back, now 23, has plenty of potential, as well as considerable experience.

Shaun LambertAnother of Norton’s ex-Middlesbrough men, Shaun turned out for Whitby Town after being released from Boro’s academy before signing for the Ancients. Lambert is regarded as a strong and wholly reliable full-back.

Marcus LaingDespite only recently turning 27, midfield man Marcus had played for the Ancients for seven years before joining Billingham Town, and is back for another spell at his first club. A hard worker who chips in with his fair share of goals from deep.

Rocky AndrewsPerhaps best known in wider circles as a contestant on The Apprentice, sandwich shop mogul and former Boro trainee Rocky had his potential football career cut short by arthritis, but has turned out for a number of Northern League sides, including Stokesley and Thornaby. A committed midfielder in the middle of the park.

Michael JamesonThe dangerous attacking midfielder has plenty of Northern League experience, playing for both Billingham Town and Synthonia, alongside brother Nathan, as well as rivals Thornaby and Guisborough. Can also play up front.

Gary MitchellProlific and deadly on his day, Mitchell joined Norton from next door neighbours Thornaby, A top scorer for the Blues, striker Gary has consistently found the back of the net for his new club, with thirteen league strikes to his name. A strong and imposing centre-forward.

Nicky MartinA frequent scorer last year for Division One outfit Billingham Town, diminuitive striker Nicky makes up for a lack of height with his high work rate and his keen sense of timing. His goalscoring form has continued with the Ancients, seeing him level with Mitchell on thirteen goals for the season thus far. A constant threat.

the players The pen profiles of some of the Ancients’ key squad members

West Allotment Celtic v Norton & Stockton Ancients 16

Twas the night before Christmas, and at Whitley Park,Not a player was stirring in the cold winter dark.From turnstile to terrace, no man made a sound, Because the footballers don't live at the ground.

The defenders were nestled all snug in their beds,While visions of clean sheets danced in their heads.Dormand in boiler suit and Stoneman in boots,Hoping that new gear would come down their chutes.

Ford dreamt of a life where he could obsessOver fawning attention from the national press.The excitable Penders entered slumber so deep,But could not stop running, even when sound asleep.

Another canine lay growling along by Whitley Bay,Muttering semi-conscious about cards and fair play.But most wished for goals, and glorious wins,And fluorescent round cones stacked high in tall bins.

When out on the pitch there arose such a noise, Drawing a response from most of the boys.They all flocked to Longbenton from far and wide,Apart from young Connor, who could not hitch a ride.

Four shadowy figures could be seen through the shroud,Pacing and posturing beneath the dark cloud.Rottweiler, there first, knew that things were amiss,"Now see here gents, what the hell is all this?!"

The quartet of officers took him to one side,Suggesting that someone or something was inside.On the potential of burglary, Ted remained coy."If he's in the kitchen, it's probably Roy."

Twas the Night Before Christmas

twas the night before christmas 17

Dean Lee checked the showers, Sean Reid the roof,Stevie the bar room, but none found the proof.Hudson smashed down door after door,Was arrested for damages and helped no more.

No car in the car park, enduring the hike,Ted knew in a moment it must be old Mike.The League's wily Chairman had come without knocking,To place Northern Conquest in each member's stocking.

No quadbikes or clippers, few presents at all,Just two dozen tomes and a size five ball.Addressing the lads’ less than raucous applause,He reminded them that he was not Santa Claus.

The Chairman’s generosity knew some bounds.“I believe that comes to ninety-six pounds.”The jolly Shildonite made John Alex reel,But at £4 a book, it represented a steal.

Now breaking and entering is still a crime,For which Mr. Amos could well do time.But the club dropped the charges on Ted’s advice,In return for the books being sold at half price.

Escorted by police away from Whitley Park,The Chairman flicked a switch, illuminating the dark.Fairy lights popped and shone, a sight to be seen,All of Blue Flames lit up, white and green.

When the lamps flickered on, the boys ditched their brollies,Racing onto the turf to attempt heads and volleys.They heard Amos exclaim, as they played in the light,“Season’s greetings to all, and to all a good night!”

Twas the Night Before Christmas

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Antony LOWERSONStephen CRAGGSShaun LAMBERTDaniel O’BRIENCallum WILSONMatthew BELLDale MULLIGANJames CROSSMANPhillip BESTStephen HODGSONMatthew RAMAGEJack PROCTORMarcus LAINGMatthew HAWKINSMichael JAMESONRocky ANDREWSJohn SEATONStephen FLOCKETTDaniel HANNIFINNicholas MARTINGary MITCHEL

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

WestAllotment

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