ALTRINCHAM 2-1 KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

Above: James Jones and John Johnston celebrate the opening goal.

With Altrincham 2-0 up inside twenty minutes it looked as if the hosts would have a comfortable afternoon against their full-time opponents. But Alty let the Harriers back into the game and had to endure a half-hour of almost constant pressure in he second half to emerge with all three points.

Altrincham took a twelfth-minute lead when a Johnston corner was missed by the keeper and defence and arrived at James Jones. From beyond the back post, he netted from close range. Soon after the restart, Horsfall hammered a shot against the Alty crossbar.

But Alty retained the upper hand as Ceesay rounded the keeper but ran out of space. Soon afterwards, Alty doubled their lead in the 19th minute. After another Ceesay incursion, the ball came to Hulme with his back to goal. The striker managed to loop the ball over Hall and into the net.

But the Harriers improved after the half-hour mark and, from a corner, Ironside's header came back off the underside of the bar (35 mins). Four minutes later Alty got in a defensive mess and Ironside netted from close range to make it 2-1.

In the second half Alty were fairly comfortable to the hour mark before the Harriers began to pen Altrincham back in their own half. A combination of good defending and poor finishing saw Altrincham reach the final whistle with their lead intact.

The official Altrincham FC website has John Edwards's post-match interview with manager Phil Parkinson.

Video highlights are on the National League site.

SATURDAY'S GATES

• AFC Telford United 1 1 Blyth Spartans Att. TBC
• Altrincham 2 1 Kidderminster Harriers Att. 1095 (according to the National League, goalkeeper Andrew Jones scored Alty's first goal).
• Boston United 4 1 Curzon Ashton Att. 1406
• Bradford (Park Avenue) 1 1 Alfreton Town Att. 465 (Luca Havern scored for BPA)
• Chester 0 0 Chorley Att. 1979
• FC United of Manchester 0 4 Nuneaton Borough Att.1697
• Guiseley 1 1 York City Att. 1305
• Leamington 1 0 Ashton United Att. TBC
• Southport 0 0 Brackley Town Att.791
• Spennymoor Town 0 2 Hereford FC Att.830
• Stockport County 2 0 Darlington Att.4807

HARRIERS' VIEW

A fairly quiet beginning to the game was shattered with just a dozen minutes on the clock, the visitors culpable at a corner as no one came to deal with the ball in, Jones left with the easy task of nodding it in at the far post.

Harriers needed to respond and did when Horsfall saw his shot turned on to the post, but the home side doubled their lead six minutes later when Hulme’s shot looped up off Johnson and beyond Hall for 2-0.

To their credit, Mark Yates’ men arguably dominated the game from then on,again hitting the woodwork through an Ironside header past the half-hour, before the striker got himself on the score sheet after holding off his man and finishing low...

The second half was arguably even slower to get going than the first but... Harriers proceeded to push hard for an equaliser... Such was the control Harriers found over the game, it was inevitable that further chances would come; alas the men from Aggborough spurned a hat-trick of big opportunities, the first arriving on 83 minutes when Richards drilled into the goalkeeper at a free-kick when well placed.

Three minutes later, Taylor’s cross was lifted over the bar by substitute Thomas, before the biggest opening of the lot saw Richards presented with the ball by Williams in the final minute of normal time, the winger had done brilliantly to get past his man and roll in the striker, but the latter could only power over the bar with the goal at his mercy.

It was a costly defeat for Harriers, whose play-off hopes are now, at best, hanging by a thread".

OLD FOES

While the league is naturally disappointed to lose a member club, we understand their reasons for doing so, and we wish Colwyn Bay all the best for the future. As a result of their resignation, the number of clubs being relegated from the EVO-STIK League West Division will be reduced as per league rule 12.6. This means that only the bottom placed club in the division, currently Skelmersdale United, at the end of the season will be relegated to step 5."

And another former opponent, Northwich Victoria, were knocked out of the FA Vase by Chertsey on Saturday at the semi-final stage. Having drawn the first leg 1-1 they drew again in the second, away leg, this time 0-0. Vics then lost 5-3 on penalties.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Tom Owen-Evans’ penalty doubled their advantage before the break and then Richards watch his side see out the tie in the second half.

'The first 15 minutes we were all over the place and we were very fortunate not to concede but it just shows what this group have got because in the second half it was probably one of our best away performances,' said Richards. 'We were dogged, determined and ugly at times and I don’t think we had a shot on target in that second half. Results have gone our way so we’re starting to look at the top end of the table rather than the bottom.

'Taylor is the top goal scorer in the league and we knew what threat he brings and our analysis was based on how to nullify the threat that he brought. There was a few of us that weren’t at the races in the first half. A big change was Mike (Symons) coming on as well to be able to get a bit of a foothold and retain the ball a bit better and that worked well. The lads hadn’t really performed in that first half but yet were two goals up. The second half was really good to see them put in a positive performance in a different way.

'It wasn’t beautiful football in the second half performance but it was a very determined and dogged with blocks in the area. Away from home, especially with the conditions of the pitch today, was getting them second balls and we did that very well in probably the latter part of the first half and majority of the second half'...

Richards handed a debut to striker Rowan Liburd and said that the marksman showed good signs... 'He hasn’t had a training session and has come straight into the team today,' added Richards".

And Bulls' News adds that "A Hereford director believes the Bulls will go into next season far better prepared than they were this season. Commercial director George Webb has said he's already looking forward to next season and knows the management team will strengthen this side over the summer.

Speaking after Saturday's 2-0 win at Spennymoor, Webb said 'I was concerned even at 2-0. I think that's the league, we were 2-0 down against Darlington and came back to win 4-2. It's never over in this league... We dictated the second half. I think it's the best win and the most satisfying, we've got gradually better as the season has gone on....

'We've brought a forward [Liburd] in now, he's added another dimension to us now and I know we'll strengthen in the summer. We'll go into next season far better prepared than we were this season... I had a bad feeling today, after Tuesday night when we didn't really perform and I know all the boys were disappointed with how they performed. But they came here today, and I think that shows the character in the side'".

According to the Boston Standard "Boston United turned on the style as they beat Curzon Ashton 4-1, securing their National League North safety along the way.

The Pilgrims’ home form has been their Achilles heel for much of the season, but they led from the first minute to the last in a game they comfortably dominated. Jake Wright needed just 36 seconds to open the scoring before Max Wright and Ben Davies got their names on the scoresheet in an exciting first half.

Lewis Reilly’s textbook free kick gave the Nash some hope, but only for a matter of minutes, Tom Crane finishing off the scoring at the death.

Such is the tight nature of the division that Boston’s three points mathematically secured their survival in a campaign where they have never dipped below 12th.

With Gavin Allott unable to get over his thigh injury, the only change to the side which drew 2-2 at York City last weekend was Jake Wright, joining Jay Rollins in attack. Making way was Andi Thanoj, dropped for the first time since joining the club more than a year ago. There was no place in the squad for deadline-day signing Cameron Hawkes".

From the Shropshire Star we learn that "AFC Telford United showed a lack of leadership after they failed to see off Blyth Spartans who grabbed a last gasp equaliser at the New Buck's Head.

Daniel Udoh fired his side into a half time lead, but missed a golden chance in the second half. Spartans were always in the game and Daniel Maguire got free to turn a cross home in the 89th minute.

Gavin Cowan admitted his huge frustration after the game, and didn't mince his words about his players failed to see out the game. He said 'Frustrated to say the least, the lads should be kicking themselves and they will be if they have anything about them. Later in the second half we showed a lack of leadership, our strikers didn't seem to want to shoot today.

'We have five centre backs on the pitch and no one decides to pick up their striker. At any time that is criminal but in the last couple of minutes it is unforgivable.'

It was the third game of the week for the Bucks, after the FA Trophy disappointment and a big win at Bradford Park Avenue in the week...

He added, 'We have no excuses it is the same for all times. They had us under the cosh a bit and had come to get a draw or nick something at the end. We knew what they were about'...

He added, 'If they are serious about getting promoted they have to cut that out. How many times has it happened? You look at Hereford 1-1 here, we were not ruthless and didn't show concentration. If we win them games we are probably top of the league'".

The Shropsshire Star adds that "A last minute leveller denied AFC Telford United the chance to open up a seven point gap to the chasing pack in the race for the play offs...

Telford always had a grip on proceedings but spurned chances, which always left the door open to a Blyth comeback. They had chances themselves, and took one with just a minute left... Bucks tried to shut up shop by putting on defensive players, but ultimately it failed and cost them two points...

Josef Bursik returned from international duty to replace Andy Wycherley in goal. Jon Royle was dropped to the bench in place of the recalled Darryl Knights, as Theo Streete was given an extended break as he remained on the substitutes bench.

It had been two games without victory on home soil, after the Bucks were put out of sight by FC United of Manchester at the New Bucks Head two weeks ago".

Chester FC "battled to a goalless draw against the leaders Chorley in the sunshine at the Swansway Chester Stadium.

The Blues made just one change to the side that won at Darlington in midweek, as Ben McKenna was dropped to the bench with Dan Mooney replacing him.

After the game, Cheshire Live reported that "Chester FC joint-manager Anthony Johnson admitted he was disappointed that his Blues side didn't take all three points against league leaders Chorley.

The Blues made it two clean sheets on the bounce in the National League North with a resilient display in a 0-0 draw against a well organised and streetwise Magpies side, a result that sees Chester five points off the top seven in the league with six games remaining.

It was pretty even stuff for the majority of the game but the Blues had chances to snatch a win and looked like the only side who were going to push on and take the spoils in the final 15 minutes or so.

But Chorley's superb defensive display shut out the Blues, and Johnson felt that it was a case of two-points dropped against the table toppers.

'It was a decent performance,' said Johnson. 'I felt we did enough to win the game... It feels to us like two points dropped as opposed to a point gained. But they are a good side and are always going to be a benchmark to what we need to be.

'We've played the top four teams in the league and not been beaten by any of them yet. I sound like a broken record but had we not had momentum killed for various things we would have been right amongst it. That's the disappointing thing for us'...

Johnson said, 'We wanted to win the game and we made attacking changes. I thought they were attacking changes that worked and got us up the pitch. I thought some of the link up play was excellent. We picked up second balls and I thought it was great, apart from not scoring, it was a good performance.'"

Across the Pennines, York Press reports on Guiseley 1 York City 1...

"York City made it four matches without a win after sharing the spoils 1-1 at Guiseley. The visitors took the lead on ten minutes when Alex Kempster played the ball to Scott Burgess through the right channel and his cross found Paddy McLaughlin who, charging towards goal, headed in from eight yards

But the hosts levelled on 78 minutes when George Cantrill did well to shrug off the attentions of Kallum Griffiths on a diagonal run from the left-back area. He then exchanged passes with Kayode Odejayi before crossing into the box from the right, where Alex Kempster left Kingsley James and he sidefooted high into the roof of the net from ten yards.

Home midfielder Alex Purver then went closest to winning the match when he thumped an edge-of-the-box effort against Adam Bartlett’s right-hand post".

SATURDAY FIXTURES

• AFC Telford United 1-1 Blyth Spartans
• Altrincham 2-1 Kidderminster Harriers
• Boston United 4-1 Curzon Ashton
• Bradford (Park Avenue) 1-1 Alfreton Town
• Chester 0-0 Chorley
• FC United of Manchester 0-4 Nuneaton Borough
• Guiseley 1-1 York City
• Leamington 1-0 Ashton United
• Southport 0-0 Brackley Town
• Spennymoor Town 0-2 Hereford
• Stockport County 2-0 Darlington

IF IT'S GOALS THAT YOU WANT...

Their visitors, Kidderminster Harriers' 113 aggregate goals (F59 A54) have required 36 matches. In the top half of the division, only Bradford (Park Avenue) supporters have seen more goals, 116 (F66 A50) in 36 matches, a slightly lower ratio of goals (3.22 per game) than Alty's figure.

So, if it's goals that you want, the J. Davidson Stadium should be the place to be this afternoon when the Robins meet the Harriers!

Mike Garnett provides the historical record of games between the two clubs which shows that the outcomes are evenly apportioned.

• At home: P25-W11-D5-L9-F35-A31
• Away: P27-W9-D7-L11-F29-A44
• All: P52-W20-D12-L20-F64-A75

BEFORE THE GAME: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

On the morning of the game Altrincham Today carried a Phil Parkinson article in which he said that "Sadly Joe Piggott, who missed our last game at York due to a back injury, has had his scan results back and he is out for the season, which is a big blow as Joe had done really well for us during his loan spell.

Billy Sass-Davies may also not be risked tomorrow, as he has a niggle. We have good cover defensively and we will need Billy to play in the run-in, particularly having not played for three weeks, we now have eight games to play in four weeks.

[Goalkeeper] Steven Drench and [striker] Matt Chadwick [right] are both available, whilst James Poole is waiting for his scan results but was able to do some jogging on Thursday night".

Also expected to be missing will be Ben Harrison, who went on loan recently to Trafford to regain match fitness.

Kidderminster Harriers report that "Ryan Johnson has called on Harriers to unite as a club as the team enters into the final six games of the season, starting with Altrincham on Saturday. Despite winning three of their last four games, Harriers find themselves on the outside of the play-offs, looking in.

Poor form over the winter months has left the top seven a distance away but the odds are far from insurmountable just yet... He knows that, sitting eighth and with a couple of games in hand behind, some may be writing off the side’s play-off chances...

'We never have that attitude, to be fair. We’re a really good bunch of lads and we always want to work and get as high as we can. We know the club should be higher up in the table and we want to do everything in our power to get there... I think we really need to come together now as a club; fans, coaches and players, and really push on for these last few games.'

It’s Groundhog Day on Saturday for Harriers and many of their opponents, like the last several weeks, the fixture list has pitted them against a promotion rival in the form of Altrincham, who’re having a splendid season. While defeats against Chorley and Brackley have proved that losing such game[s] can be costly, Johnson is equally aware of the advantage of winning such contests.

He added 'That’s the great thing about our run of games, even though they’re difficult. It is a good incentive to try and get as many points as we can. I know the other teams play each other as well so, hopefully, we can get a good few results and we can keep pushing and get a few points.'

Harriers were welcom[ing] back Declan Weeks from injury against Brackley last weekend after a spell out. It is hoped he’ll be fit to again feature this weekend, but staff will need to run the rule over Sam Austin who picked up a knock in the same game, and Billy Daniels who missed the tie at St James Park with a knee injury. Milan Butterfield has been back at Aggborough this week after a spell away with Bermuda, while its hoped Ed Williams will also be able to get some minutes after a recent injury".

Meanwhile the unofficial Harriers Online tells us that "The season finale is slowly drifting away from the Harriers and this game at Altrincham tomorrow could confirm the end for us if we lose yet another game in this crucial spell of games against the other play off hopefuls.

Last week we ‘improved’ ? on our previous worst display of the season when we crashed 3-1 at a Brackley Town in a game that the home team strolled through with ease. Previously, at Chorley two weeks ago the hosts also strolled through with ease and began to put our promotion hopes in doubt. We now face another side looking to go up and we need to nip these ‘improvements’ in the bud.

At the start of the season Alty were one of the best sides that we had seen at Aggborough for years with some super play that was reminiscent of the Harriers at their best. Somehow we managed to win the game 3-2 and that kept us in second spot in the table. We stayed in and around that place until November when the slump started that led to the sacking of Neil MacFarlane.

Since that game the form that Alty showed then has been kept up and they now find themselves one place above us but with two games and three points in hand due to them not having a game for three weeks now because of waterlogged pitches and other teams' cup games. Hopefully they won’t be match fit.

They have a couple of long term injuries with James Poole out with a hamstring injury following his return from a cruciate ligament injury at the start of this season. Max Harrop, Matt Chadwick, Ben Harrison and Steven Drench have all been carrying injuries with Harrison probably the one that won’t be making tomorrow with a persistent knee injury.

We do have an excuse for the poor showing at Brackley (but not Chorley) with most of our midfield absent or injured. Absent was Milan Butterfield who was away on international duty with Bermuda while out injured were Ed Williams, Liam Truslove, Billy Daniels and Nick Clayton-Phillips. Declan Weeks was on the bench waiting for his return from injury and should now start tomorrow, thankfully. Out of those others missing, Milan is now back home while Williams and Daniels should have recovered from their injuries leaving Truslove and NCP as the only ones not available.

During the game Sammy Austin, who was covering in midfield, also got injured with a boot stamped onto his foot and that left us even shorter on midfield numbers. Sam is also doubtful for the Altrincham trip so there might be a place for the forgotten man Josh Heaton. For some reason he played in the morning for the U23 side when really he should have been at Brackley. Ludicrous!

So tomorrow is yet another crunch match and this time it really could be CRUNCH! as our season comes to a premature end".

ALTY OLD BOYS

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Alfreton Town are the visitors at the Horsfall Stadium this Saturday and Bower is looking for a response. 'We'll get setbacks,' he told the Telegraph & Argus.'That's what happens at this stage of the season, when you're playing a lot of games. You'll get a few bumps in the road as such and the better teams, the ones that are going to be successful, are the ones that bounce back quickly from that, so that's what we've got to do. It's not just getting into the playoffs. Securing a points tally that we feel will get us in the top seven, that's going to be the first target.

'Then if things go really well, and we can string a few results together again, who knows, you might even look at a top three spot.'"

Alfreton Town report that/A> "Winger Callum Chettle has completed a move to neighbours Matlock Town on loan until the end of the season. Callum featured throughout our pre-season campaign ahead of the 2018/19 season and has made eight starts and 13 substitute appearances, scoring twice. Chettle also headed out on loan in January to Boston United where he made just a handful of appearances".

York Press informs us that "Scott Burgess has signalled his interest in a permanent move to York City. The on-loan Bury midfielder has started nine of the Minstermen’s last ten matches since arriving from the League Two promotion candidates, scoring a spectacular goal during last month’s 2-1 triumph at Kidderminster.

Burgess, 21, has been at Gigg Lane since joining the club as an under-16 scholar and made his first-team debut at the age of 16. He went on on to make a total of 23 senior appearances for the Shakers and scored two goals, all as a teenager, but hasn’t featured at all over the last two seasons at his parent club, who have farmed him out on loan to Macclesfield, Wrexham and the Minstermen.

Burgess is now relishing the regular starts he has been afforded by City boss Steve Watson and would be open to discussions regarding his plans for 2019/20.

Last season’s National League title winner said 'I’ve been at Bury for a long time now, but I haven’t played there for the last two seasons and it’s probably time for me to go somewhere and get regular football. It didn’t work out for me when I went to Wrexham this season, but the gaffer here as shown faith in me, when I haven’t had that from other managers so, hopefully, coming here could be a possibility. It’s a massive club at this level that needs to be playing a lot higher and I believe the gaffer will help do that. Nothing has been mentioned yet and I’m focussed on helping the team progress this season. Hopefully, we can then sit down and go from there in the summer.'

Having also enjoyed a loan spell in Scandinavia at the age of 18, Burgess would not be fazed by making a full-time switch from his Warrington base.

'I went to Norway for three months when I was quite young to play for Bergsoy, so I’m used to being away from home,' he reasoned. 'It was completely different in terms of the lifestyle and the style of football and, whilst it was a bit strange being out there on my own, I’m now appreciative of the good experience I got there.... When you’re playing regularly [at York], you get the experience to adapt to certain situations and, hopefully, I’ve repaid the manager’s faith in me,” he explained'.

City and Burgess’ next challenge will encompass a trip to Guiseley this weekend... 'They are a team local to us, which adds a bit of a rivalry, but it’s really just another game we need to win and believe we can do,' he declared. 'It will be difficult to get into the top seven, but I still believe we can do'...

Having fought back with 10 men to secure a 3-3 draw at FC United on Tuesday, [Burgess added] 'I can’t ever remember coming back like that with 10 men to get a result, but the manager said he’d seen it many times in the past at half-time,' Burgess added. 'We didn’t play too badly in the first half but conceded twice from set-pieces and that was very frustrating because we pride ourselves on dealing with those situations... Adriano (Moke) got sent off and we regrouped at half-time only to go 3-1 down almost straight away.

'But that seemed to draw us together and, after that, I thought we had control of the game. We looked like we had the extra man and, when Wes (York) scored the second goal, it gave us the belief to get a third. We then finished the match a bit frustrated, because I was certain I was onside when the assistant’s flag went up, but he told me it was the easiest decision he had made all night and that I was five yards offside, which I didn’t agree with. I was screaming at Wes for the ball and I thought I was going through to win us the game but, coming back from 3-1 to take a point, still has to be taken as a positive.'"

Grimsby Town "confirm that midfielder, Max Wright has extended his loan spell with Boston United until the end of the National League North season... During his time at the club, Max has made a total of 28 appearances, scoring 6 goals in the process. Max will return to Blundell Park after Boston's final league game of the season, which is scheduled for April 27th. "

"AFC Telford United are heading into tomorrow’s encounter with Blyth Spartans on the back of arguably their best result of the season" claims the Shropshire Star.

Last Saturday... "Gavin Cowan’s side were hosting Leyton Orient at a packed-out New Bucks Head in an FA Trophy semi-final, with just a 1-0 deficit from the first leg standing in the way of a trip to Wembley. Telford fought valiantly amid a special atmosphere, but it was not enough...

So to then travel up north just three days later and beat Bradford Park Avenue... spoke volumes of the immense character of Cowan and his players. It was a display which further convinced many that the Bucks will succeed in their play-off quest...

'The Bradford game was a great showing from the lads, character-wise,' said Cowan. 'We made a big decision after the Trophy game on Saturday just put it to one side and say "what’s done is done". There isn’t time to reflect on the special journey we went on in the competition... We moved on very quickly, and I never doubted the lads would get themselves going again. Now we’ve got Blyth, and they were very good at their place, but we were pretty poor at the same time.

'On their day, Blyth are a match for anyone in this division, so we know we’ll have to be on our mettle to get the result.' Cowan is going into the clash with a couple of decisions to make selection-wise. Perhaps the biggest one is over who he will put between the sticks. Andy Wycherley was the man who was so essential in their run to the Trophy semis and played in Tuesday’s triumph. But his inclusion at Horsfall Stadium was a given as Josef Bursik was on international duty with England Under-19s...

Stoke loanee Bursik comes back fully match-sharp having played all three games for them over the past week... Said Cowan 'It gives me a tough decision going into Saturday'... Cowan is also hoping left-wing-back Steph Morley will be back in action soon, if not tomorrow, after a hamstring issue."

Bradford (Park Avenue) "have moved to add attacking options in their push to the Play Offs campaign by adding Hull City teen hotshot Keane Lewis-Potter. Lewis-Potter is a highly rated forward at Hull and was rewarded with a 3-year professional contract on February 28th by Nigel Adkins, having netted 8 goals at under-18 level for the Tigers and an impressive 17 goals for the under-23s this season.

A regular at training with Adkins first team, 18 year old Lewis-Potter was included in the first team in January's FA Cup clash away at Millwall. In January ... Nigel Adkins said of Lewis-Potter 'He’s a young guy, diminutive in his figure, he’s got a bit of pace and an eye for goal. Let’s not put any pressure on him but let’s be excited that somewhere down the line it’s another player coming through the academy who’s got a bright future at the club'.

Keane will join fellow Hull product Charlie Andrew at The Horsfall and is on a loan deal until the end of the season... Lewis-Potter will arrive at Horsfall and be available for Saturday's huge clash against Alfreton".

According to the a href="https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/local/darlington/17537840.wright-we-need-to-erase-the-individual-errors-that-have-cost-us-this-year/">Northern Echo "A Darlington victory on Saturday at Stockport County, a team going for the title, would represent Quakers’ best result of the campaign and provide a fillip in what’s been a sorry season.

Entrenched in the bottom third of the table, all concerned are desperate to move on and draw a line under 2018-19, a season in which a recurring theme has been an inability to hold onto a lead. Promotion-chasers Chorley, Bradford PA and Altrincham are among those to have benefitted from Darlington’s vulnerable nature when ahead. Quakers have led 17 of their games at some stage, either by a goal or two-goal margin, but have won only nine of their 38 contests in all competitions, which partly explains why they languish in 17th with six games to go.

'We’ve given away a lot of two-goal leads which has ultimately cost us points away from home, but the challenge is there,' said manager Tommy Wright... 'For 92 minutes we were beating Chorley, who are top of the league, we were 3-1 up against Altrincham, and we were 2-0 up against Bradford Park Avenue, so I know we can compete against these teams. We beat Telford at home 3-0.

'We’ll be going up against a team at the top end of this league that have aspirations to win the title, and we need to make a good account of ourselves. I think we can cause an upset and, if we play like did on Wednesday, I think we will get results against teams.'

Quakers have a nine-point cushion above the relegation places, however, they will have an eye [on] third-bottom FC United, who are expected to beat Nuneaton Borough. The midweek defeat at home to Chester, watched by Stockport boss Jim Gannon, continued Quakers’ poor sequence, two wins in 11 games, but Wright remains upbeat about his team.

He said 'I don’t think there’s any team in this league where, if we show up and put on a performance that reflects ourselves, I don’t think there’s many teams are better than us. We can compete with anybody, but it is about managing games and erasing the individual errors that have cost us this year, not our build-up play, not our shape.'

It is Wright’s loyalty to his players that led to him not making any substitutions on Wednesday, something that also happened at home to Nuneaton Borough in December, though on that day Darlington had five children on the bench.

Against Chester Alex Henshall and new signing Osagi Bascome were among the subs, but Wright felt his team were playing well so stuck with his starting XI throughout, explaining 'We tweaked the system during the game, Wilson Kneeshaw went outside and Jordan Nicholson came inside, and I thought we still looked a threat, but maybe I’ve seen something that others haven’t.'

He must make at least one change to this starting XI today as Omar Holness serves a one-match ban for being sent off seven days ago at Nuneaton. His absence raises the possibility of Tom Elliott returning to midfield with Ben Jackson, on loan from Huddersfield Town, coming in at left-back... Due to commitments to their parent club, Jackson and striker Kit Elliott, also on loan from Huddersfield, have rarely trained with Quakers since signing two weeks ago, which could explain why Wright has been reluctant to throw them into action".

Bulls' News reports that "Following Tuesday’s predictable defeat to Brackley, the third loss this season to that one club, Hereford FC face another difficult assignment tomorrow, making the long trip to Brewery Field, Spennymoor.

The Bulls’ much-vaunted six-game unbeaten run and relatively healthy position in the form table always had their foundations built in sand, with the three wins and three draws all coming during a freakishly unusual run of ten games all against teams from the bottom half of the table. The consequence of that run of fixtures is that the club now faces a tough run-in, with a handful of points still needed to put any lingering relegation fears to bed, so if the club can go on another unbeaten run between now and the end of the season it will be an impressive achievement indeed.

Tomorrow’s opponents made short work of the home team in a 3-0 win when the clubs met at Edgar Street last September, with the Bulls players still reeling at the time from the board’s decision to sack Pete Beadle after a start to the season seemingly deemed unacceptable. The Moors have had an excellent season, consistently in and around the top three, but have recently stuttered as the likes of Stockport and Brackley have overtaken them in finishing the season like express trains. They haven't won in five (having lost just three home games this season) but despite the wobble will still be optimistic of a tilt at promotion via the play-offs...

I’ve seldom known a flatter Edgar Street (in terms of atmosphere rather than gradient, the slope looked the same as ever) than on Tuesday night, and a general sense of being resigned to defeat, so presumably a long, hard look at matters from the top to the bottom of the club will be needed to arrest what has been such a rapid and sharp decline in momentum and paying customers. Those missing supporters are still out there, some of them very out there, waiting for signs that the board are serious in their stated intention of being competitive at this level, rather than bumbling along in the bottom six.

The Bulls go into this one with a worrying doubt over the fitness of influential captain Josh Gowling. New loanee Louis Ezewele replaced Gowling at half time on Tuesday looking adequate enough on debut, and will presumably start tomorrow, but Gowling’s possible absence is nevertheless a big worry. With Jak Hickman again looking sharp against Brackley, Keiran Thomas’s return from suspension may see him slotted back in to the midfield role he’s done well in since being moved from right back. This may mean the crablike James Wesolowski, or perhaps Tommy O’Sullivan, must start on the bench.

Lance Smith, along with the aforementioned Hickman, was one of the few bright sparks on Tuesday, playing with energy, occasional invention and that endearing passion he seems to have for the club, which of course doesn’t go unnoticed among supporters and is richly appreciated. He’s surely earned the right to retain his starting place.

With Cardiff loanee James Waite apparently restricted under orders from his parent club to 30-minute substitute appearances as he recovers from injury, it appeared earlier in the week that a frustrated and exhausted-looking Mike Symons would partner Smith in this one, but of course the management team have played a blinder in bringing exciting new striker Rowan Liburd to the club. There seems little doubt that Liburd will start tomorrow. A very warm welcome to the club Rowan - we've been waiting for someone like you to come along for a while! He's certainly a signing who could put a few hundred back on the next home gate. Credit must also go to the board in sanctioning the move, and greasing its wheels in whichever way was necessary. Exciting.

For whatever reason, recent signing Cameron Ebbutt hasn’t seemed to be considered worthy of the opportunity to give Symons a rest recently, which is something of an indictment on the poor lad's ability given the Beast’s apparent lethargy - that must be some sore thumb he's suffering from".

OLD FOES

However, the Echo understands the club’s remaining home games will not be affected, and the club will be given access to the pitch, changing-rooms and to open up the stands. The Echo can also reveal Gateshead players have still not been paid for the month of March. They were expected to receive their wages today.

In a statement, a spokesman for Gateshead Council said 'Gateshead FC is in breach of its licence for use of the International Stadium, and the Council has asked the company to vacate the offices at the Stadium. This action follows a protracted period of negotiation with the current owner to settle outstanding debt with the Council. 'To be clear, the issue is with the company, not the club. Gateshead Council is a long-time supporter of the club and it remains our wish that Gateshead FC has a long and prosperous future, preferably with the Stadium as its home. The Council has made an offer to the club to use the Stadium for its remaining home fixtures this season and the play-offs. It is in the hands of the club’s owner as to what now happens'"

Later, the Sunderland Echo added that "Former Rochdale chairman Chris Dunphy has agreed a deal in principle to take over National League club Gateshead. The deal was struck after two-hour talks with the club’s chief financial officer Joe Cala on a dramatic day at the International Stadium. Earlier the club were thrown out of their home ground over an unpaid bill...

The deal is now in the hands of legal teams and Dunphy is keen to take control of the club within the next ten days".

NW NEWS

The New Saints and Connah's Quay Nomads will qualify for Europe IF Nomads beat Cardiff Met. One result will see both Saints and Nomads guaranteed European football next season. This is because neither can finish lower than third in the table, and the only way either will finish third is if Barry Town United, also in the Semi-Finals, overtake them.

This would, should Nomads win, make both finalists top three teams, guaranteeing CQ and TNS a place in Europe either via their League position or via winning the JD Welsh Cup. Third place will guarantee European football if BOTH Connah's Quay and The New Saints reach the JD Welsh Cup Final

Given that both Saints and Nomads can finish no lower than third, should they both qualify for the JD Welsh Cup Final, then third will be guaranteed a UEFA Europa League place, as the Cup winner will be in the top three, meaning that either

a) they will finish third and qualify as cup winners or

b) their European place for winning the Cup will revert to the third placed side should they have finished in the top two

Should Cardiff Met beat Nomads, then no sides will be guaranteed Europe this weekend."

300TH START FOR JAKE

Currently, Jake has made 299 starts and 27 appearances from the bench for Altrincham, during which he has netted 33 goals.

Jake made his first formal start for the club whilst on loan from Alfreton Town on 1 September 2012 in a home match in which Altrincham defeated Histon, 5-0 in the Blue Square Bet North.

However, Jake had previously been a summer trialist for Altrincham, making his bow on 12 July 2008 in a 5-1 away win at Abbey Hey in a pre-season friendly.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

So how sweet it was that, on a Wednesday night in Darlington, Simon Grand's 40th minute header sealed the most valuable of three points for the Blues to keep their play-off hopes alive and kicking for another week. And while Chester were nowhere near their best, they dug deep to hold out for the 1-0 win, aided in no small part to some fine goalkeeping from Grant Shenton and some dogged and determined defending against a Quakers' side that saw much of the ball in the second half but couldn't hurt the Blues. And that was all that counted for joint-manager Bernard Morley.

He said, 'It was all about the three points. The performance wasn't the best we've seen this season but to come here and keep a clean sheet and get back on the road with three points is what we came for. Over the 90 minutes they were the better side and in possession they were better and they were sharper. We came for three points and that's what we've got. We didn't create as much as we would have liked to but three points is what we have achieved.

'We could have played really well and lost the game. So for three points and a clean sheet, and our away record hasn't been great, so we have been able to add to that tally and it breeds confidence for Saturday (against Chorley).'

The goal that won it was right off the training ground. A free kick from the left hand side was played low into Anthony Dudley by Gary Roberts, with Dudley laying the ball first time into Akwasi Asante, who scuffed his effort but got the rub of the green as it found its way to Grand to nod home from close range. All this caught the home side napping.

And Morley revealed that the set piece was something that had been worked on in training, and he was delighted to see it pay off for co-boss Anthony Johnson.

'The set piece, you've got to give credit to the gaffer (Johnson) where that is concerned as the last couple of sessions he's worked on that set piece, 25 minutes here and there,' said Morley. 'It was the first time we've been able to do it and we've scored. Set pieces win leagues, and I know that might not be the case for us this season but it certainly brought us three points in a big game.

'That hour that we have spent on it has paid off and I'm sure the lads will be excited to see what he has got up his sleeve next time.'

Had Chester failed to pick up maximum points last night it would likely have meant curtains for their National League North play-off hopes. As it was, Chester moved to within four points of the top seven ahead of a crucial clash with league leaders Chorley on Saturday. And Morley... said 'I feel like we have to improve as a side if we still believe we can get in the play-offs but we are another three points closer to what we are trying to achieve. Something has got to give over the weekend but let's concentrate [on] what [we] have got to do. Our home record and our record against sides in this league there is all to play for. Nobody wants to play Chester when we are at it.'"

More comes from Cheshire Live which reports that "Darlington manager Tommy Wright believed his side deserved to get something out of the clash with Chester FC and expressed pride in his players despite going down 1-0 at home...

In truth, Chester were nowhere near their best and were pegged back for much of the second half and indebted to two fine stops from keeper Grant Shenton either side of half time. But for all Darlington's possession in the second half they rarely gave Chester too much cause for concern.

Wright, though, who claimed that his side should have had a first half penalty and suggested Grand should have seen red for a fairly robust challenge that was deemed a yellow early on, thought the Quakers didn't get the result their play deserved.

He told the club's official YouTube channel 'I was proud of the players to be honest and I don't get the sense of disappointment. We've lost a game of football but the lads gave everything, hence the fact they all stayed on the pitch because I thought we looked a threat. I believed we would get a goal but we just fell short. I think the lads played good football and it could have been a different game if the penalty was given, [and] a sending off. Their keeper has made multiple saves and we have been beaten 1-0 at home, that is the disappointment for me, not the way we played.

'Jonno and Bernard are really honest people and were gutted for me that we didn't get anything, we were the better team and I thought we dominated the game but we were beaten 1-0... The lads have got to start switching on and defending better from a set play but, other than that, I don't think they have really troubled us. I think Jake Turner had a really quiet evening and the lads, one through to 11, have gave a good account of themselves'".

According to the Shropshire Star, "Boss Gavin Cowan insists AFC Telford United are in control of their own destiny as they aim to seal a play-off place. Tuesday night’s important 2-1 victory at Bradford Park Avenue bumped the Bucks up a spot to sixth in National League North...

Cowan said, 'The league table shows we are well placed and nothing I can say can deter anyone from that. It speaks for itself and it is in our hands now, it is up to us... The next seven games will be entertaining games, we need to stay reliable and efficient and keep our eye on the prize... We are in a good place but only if we back it up on Saturday and that is what we intend to do.'

Telford host Blyth Spartans on Saturday and a couple of changes could be made in the interest of freshness. Darryl Knights was left out of the squad at Avenue due to fatigue and, on the rotation, Cowan added 'It shows the group we have because we rested Darryl Knights from the squad, we couldn’t get Adam Dawson on and we have Judd Ellis, who has done well in training, on the bench. We have a group, not a team or a squad, we have a group.'"

The NL Paper states that "Strugglers Nuneaton Borough have managed to avoid a winding up petition after successfully paying a tax bill. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) originally brought the action over a bill of £32,000, however the High Court has adjourned until 1 May after the club paid the money following a donation from a local businessman.

'It gives us a chance to get to the end of the season and organise everything else,' interim owner Jimmy Ginnelly told BBC Coventry and Warwickshire. 'We’ve amassed enough money to pay off quite a few of the debts, the HMRC was the main one. We’re trying our hardest to pay everyone but we’ve not been able to pay because the bank has put this validation order on us,' Ginnelly added.

'There’s a very positive group of businessmen who are wanting to help and try and create this new thing down at Nuneaton Borough, there’s 10 or 15 of us now who are all lumping together.'"

From Hereford, Bulls' News confirms that "Striker Rowan Liburd has signed a permanent deal with Hereford until the end of next season on deadline day. The 26-year-old has scored 14 goals for Guiseley this season and he's been on the mind of Bulls' Head Coach Marc Richards since December.

Richards told the official site 'Rowan will offer us something that we haven’t already got. He can be a big target man if needed, but in all honesty, he’s much more than that. He’s quick, powerful and knows where the goal is, so I’m really excited that we’ve managed to bring him in. We’ve been searching for a frontline striker for a while now but, right from the outset, Tim and I said we didn’t want to bring in just anyone. We wanted someone who would come in and add something new to the squad, and also someone who would fit in and have the right attitude, the right character and, ideally, a bit more experience'".

Meanwhile, Guiseley confirm that "Rowan Liburd has today left the club to join Hereford FC in a permanent transfer. Rowan joined Guiseley initially on loan in October 2017, scoring 4 in 8 appearances before making the move permanent in December. Rowan scored 4 in 21 over the remainder of the season. Rowan leaves the lions having scored 12 in 26 league appearances this season, culminating in his first international call up for St Kitts and Nevis."

News of another signing comes from the Boston Standard which tells us that "Boston United have made a deadline day signing by bringing in midfielder Cameron Hawkes. The 19-year-old arrives on a youth loan from Bradford City, joining Bantams' teammate Tom Clare at the Jakemans Stadium until the end of the season. Hawkes made two appearances for Bradford in League One last season, but hasn't turned out for the first team this season.

The former Sheffield United academy player would be the 48th Pilgrim used by Craig Elliott this term if he features against Curzon Ashton on Saturday."

From Southport comes news that "Jason Gilchrist has joined Stockport County on loan until the end of the season. Jason, who has been unable to command a first team place with Southport on a regular basis this campaign, joins The Hatters who sit in second place in the table four points behind Chorley. They also have a game in hand and Jason will be looking to help with their promotion push...

Jason has scored 25 goals for Southport, 19 in the league, since he made is debut in December 2017 after joining from FC United of Manchester."

Alfreton Town "are delighted to confirm that defender Adam Curry has returned to the Impact Arena on loan until the end of the season. Curry joined Hull City from South Shields in November 2015 and, after recovering from a long term injury, has been a regular feature in City’s Under-23s' set up. He signed a new one-year deal with the Tigers in May 2018.

Adam made his professional debut against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane in the Carabao Cup First Round this season... Adam also made bench appearances for league fixtures against Leeds, Blackburn and Stoke. Curry featured seven times for the Reds during his first spell before his loan came to an end on January 1st.

Billy Heath said 'We lost Dom Smith as he was recalled by Telford and this move was a no-brainer for all parties. It’s a great acquisition for us and we are delighted to have Adam back. Adam is looking to play games from now until the end of the season and he comes in and will help us in positions, he can play as part of the defensive three in terms of centre-backs. He can play as a left-back and on the left side of the defence which is fantastic.

'It’s a signing which makes sense, we know what to expect from Adam and he knows what to expect from us, from being with us earlier in the season and it’s great to have him back.'"

THE LAST TIME

Right: Robbie Lawton and Matt Doughty oversee the pre-match warm-up against Kidderminster on Easter Monday, 2017.

Before the match, manager Matt Doughty had told the Robins' Review, "We will make changes... as I dip into our reserve and youth team squads to see who may be up to the challenges the club will face next season" and for this game goalkeeper Stuart Tomlinson, right-back Sam Patterson, centre-back Sam Heathcote and striker Damian Reeves all came into the starting line-up, whilst Harry Cain and Craig Hobson joined the bench. Sean Miller, Andy Owens, Tom Hannigan, Alan Goodall and John Cyrus had all missed the Good Friday game through injury, as had Gary Jones, and all six were again missing for this Easter Monday fixture.

Arthur Gnahoua returned from injury for the Harriers.

But Kidderminster demonstrated their clear superiority with a comfortable win. The visitors dominated from the start and took a fifth-minute lead when a rehearsed freekick routine, involving a simulated mix-up between their players, produced a superb strike into the top corner by James McQuilkin.

Altrincham slowly improved and snatched a 38th minute equalizer when Damian Reeves finished superbly from the edge of the box after a long ball had set him free up the middle.

However, Kidderminster started the second half just as strongly as they had commenced the first 45 minutes and, in the 51st minute, went ahead again when former Harrogate Town forward Joe Ironside scored after Jordan Tunnicliffe had had a free header from a Harriers' corner. Substitute Andre Brown made it 3-1, thirteen minutes from time after fellow sub, Emmanuel Sonupe, had crashed a thunderbolt against the crossbar. And Sonupe himself netted the fourth in the 86th minute when Tomlinson spilt a shot, leaving the impressive substitute with a tap-in.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart Tomlinson 2. Sam Patterson, 3. Andy McWilliams, 4. Laurence Taylor, 5. Sam Heathcote, 6. Jake Moult (capt), 7. Simon Richman, 8. Kyle Brownhill, 9. Micah Evans, 10. Damian Reeves, 11. James Lawrie. Subs: 12. Craig Hobson, 14. Harry Cain, 15. Clayton McDonald, 16. Chris Lynch, 17. Shaun Densmore.

KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS: 1. Sam Hornby, 2. Tyrone Williams, 3. Zaine Francis-Angol, 4. Ryan Croasdale, 5. Keith Lowe (capt), 6. Jordan Tunnicliffe, 7. Daniel Nti, 8. James McQuilkin, 9. Joe Ironside, 10. Elton Ngwatala, 11. Arthur Gnahoua. Subs: 12. Ashley Carter, 14. Emmanuel Sonupe, 15. Sam Austin, 16. Andre Brown, 17. Liam Truslove.

Coincidentally, the 2017 match against the Harriers was followed by an Alty fixture against Alfreton Town, just the same as is the case this season.

ALTY JUNIORS' FESTIVAL 2019

Stuart Buchan writes that "We've secured two days on the pitch at the Altrincham FC's J Davidson Stadium this year to host our annual tournament and, hence, we're able to extend the event this year to include U11 and U12 age groups in a 9-a-side format playing across the pitch, using a half-pitch each. I've allocated two sessions for the U11s so we have space for 20 teams at U11 and 10 teams at U12 level, playing in groups of five to minimise any waiting time. The U11/U12s will play on the Saturday.

The U8/U9/U10s will play on Sunday 12th and they will play on a quarter of the pitch and hence playing six a side.

As usual, we will provide qualified referees, trophies, a computerised real-time scoreboard, free A5 colour programme (contact me if you'd like to advertise within it). The pitch is in great condition, there are covered stands and terraces around the ground to base your team in. Full refreshments and facilities will be available.

I've attached a flyer and Entry Form. If you are interested please return to me with payment. The e-mail address is also shown on the entry form.

A small footnote that I have to highlight; Altrincham FC are hoping to reach the playoffs of the National League North this season. Certain finishing positions could see them playing the final on their pitch, in which case I would have to cancel the tournament and refund in full. At present I think its only a 10% chance of impacting us, but I will keep you fully informed if this increases".

WEDNESDAY'S GAME

• Darlington 0-1 Chester

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

AFC Telford also responded well to crashing out of the Trophy on Saturday, by coming away from Bradford PA with a superb 2-1 victory, which has seen the Bucks rise to sixth place in the table. Meanwhile, Brackley Town moved up to third with victory at Hereford and Guiseley gave their survival hopes a real boost by beating Curzon Ashton.

Finally, FC United and York City played out a tantalizing 3-3 draw, with the Minstermen coming back from two goals down to salvage a point in the final 20 minutes."

Bulls' News says that "Brackley manager Kevin Wilkin was 'absolutely delighted' with his side's 2-0 victory over Hereford at Edgar Street...

Wilkin said, 'Hereford have been on a strong run unbeaten in six games. We knew it would be difficult tonight but we stayed organised and resolute and thoroughly deserved the result again. Carl Baker’s strike was stunning and gave us that half-time lead. We really should have put the game to bed in the first 15 minutes of the second half and, when you don’t, you are always a little bit anxious but when we got the second goal we then managed the game well thereafter.

'We have got some really tough games against very strong teams coming up so we take nothing for granted and we move on now to be properly prepared for the trip to Southport on Saturday.'"

The NL Paper adds that "Connor Hall says Brackley Town have pushed his game to the next level and the defender believes they have every right to believe they can reach Step 1.

The 25-year-old has been a big factor in the Saints’ National League North promotion push since joining from Step 3 Biggleswade Town in the summer. Having started his career alongside England keeper Nick Pope at Bury Town, Hall was set to sign for Cambridge United when he was 21. But a groin problem saw the move delayed and was followed by other injury issues that kept him sidelined for 18 months in total before the Us opted not to complete after their promotion to League Two.

But now he’s on the up again with Kevin Wilkin’s Brackley and proving he can play higher in the Pyramid following his previous disappointment.

'It was a bit of a kick in the teeth and I went back to my original club, Bury,' Hall told The NLP. 'That’s where I probably should have stepped up and not gone back to my comfort zone. I then went to St Neots because it’s near where I live and they’d got to a play-off final. But I didn’t enjoy it and was only there for about three months before going to Biggleswade.

'I had the best time of my life for the two years I was there. The gaffer (Chris Nunn) was brilliant with me. It made me love football again and think, "I can still go higher". I still always thought I could, but just felt the chances were slim so I wasn’t concentrating on it because work comes first when you get to your mid-20s. I was hearing every now and then people were looking at me and at the end of last season I thought, "I’ve got to make the step up now. With work it’s going to be difficult but if it doesn’t work out at least I’ve tried".

'I watched Brackley in their play-off semi-final and the gaffer said they wanted to sign me whether they went up or stayed in the National League North. I started the season there and it’s gone from strength-to-strength. A lot of the boys have had promotions out of this league or played higher and it’s nice to come to a team challenging. I knew it was a great opportunity for me and it’s been brilliant. It’s helped me push on especially playing alongside Gaz Dean, he’s one of the best I’ve played with.'

The shift into defence, Hall felt it would be better for him after a couple of seasons in the Waders’ midfield, has certainly paid off...

'I know there’s only eight games left but we feel we’re hitting our stride now. We’re scoring chances we weren’t earlier in the season so we’re not inviting teams onto us later in games,' Hall said. 'Carl Baker has come in and been clinical and given us that edge which has made it even better for us and our promotion push. It’s what you want to be involved in.'"

Bulls' News adds that "Some Hereford fans would've been nervous going into the second half of last night's game against Brackley Town as captain Josh Gowling was substituted at the interval. The experienced centre-back managed to get through the first half of the game after feeling his hamstring early on in the 2-0 defeat.

Marc Richards was impressed with new signing Louis Ezewele who made his debut for the club. Richards said after last night's game 'Josh was just feeling his hamstring early in the first half, he managed to get through until half time... We didn't want to take any chances so made the substitution at half time... I thought he (Ezewele) did what he needed to do, I've just said to him then that he's been solid. Headed what he's needed to head, cleared what he needed to clear and just kept things simple'...

Midfielder James Wesolowski has returned from injury and has played 60 minutes in each of Hereford's last two games. Richards said... his hamstring is now 'absolutely fine'. He added 'I think you've seen in the last two games what he brings to the team, that maturity, what he does in terms of breaking up play and keeping things simpl... It's just the calf issue that he's still feeling and that happens when you have a bit of time out'...

James Waite also returned to the field of play last night after his three match suspension, but he's being eased back into things following advice from parent-club Cardiff City."

NL Daily comments that "Hereford FC’s six-game unbeaten run came to an end on Tuesday evening when promotion-chasing Brackley Town took home all three points courtesy of a 2-0 win.

'It was a tough game,' central defender Jordan Cullinane-Liburd told the club’s website. 'Brackley are where they are in the table for a reason. They are a team that has been together for a long time and stopped us playing the way we would have liked and were difficult to play against as they broke very quickly. I felt that we kept them quiet for much of the first half and then the own goal after the break was unfortunate to give them a two-goal advantage.

'We know that if we keep trying to play the right way, we’ll get results. There were spells on Tuesday where we played some decent football and if we can step up a gear from that in the next couple of games, we’ll give ourselves a chance of getting something from them'".

At Guiseley "Man-of-the-match Alex Purver crowned a superb performance scoring the goal that gave Guiseley three precious points that opens up a five-point gap between the Lions and third bottom FC United of Manchester.

Understandably, there was palpable relief at the final whistle that the Lions had finally registered their first win since they had put a dampener on Park Avenue’s play-off ambitions on New Year’s Day at Horsfall. From the opening salvos it looked as though the Nethermoor men were intent on gaining revenge for the single goal defeat at Curzon Ashton just over two weeks ago.

But until Purver’s 76th minute goal it looked like a case of déjà vu for, as with the game at the Tameside Stadium, the men in white shirts dominated the first half hour without getting the breakthrough their play deserved... The Nash blocking shots and getting bodies in the way of just about everything the Lions threw at them it looked like a case of history repeating itself...

Undaunted, the home side kept pressing and ere eventiually rewarded in the 76thy minute when they were awarded a throw in on the right and the ball found its way into the area where Purver controlled the ball under pressure before shooting under Nash keeper Cameron Mason much to the relief of the home support, who had last seen their team win a league game at Nethermoor last October.

The Lions' win proved even more crucial in the light of the other results this evening here. FCUM drew 3-3 at home with York City, despite holding a 3-1 lead at one stage and Ashton United’s 2-1 reverse at Stockport now leaves them, together with FCUM five and six points respectively adrift of safety at the foot of the table while cash-strapped Nuneaton already looked doomed".

Still in Yorkshire, the Telegraph & Argus reports that "Bradford (Park Avenue) slipped a place in the National League North play-off zone after losing 2-1 at home to promotion rivals AFC Telford. Two goals in three second-half minutes for the visitors proved crucial, despite Conor Branson pulling one back.

Brackley Town's 2-0 win at Hereford saw them leap above Avenue, who dropped to fifth spot, four points and one place above Telford who have a game in hand.

After a tight first half at Horsfall, the Bucks delivered a swift double strike on 57 and 60 minutes. First James McQuilkin picked up the ball on the right edge of the penalty area from Daniel Udoh and curled a fine shot into the top corner past keeper Charlie Andrew's left hand. Then Brendan Daniels almost added to the lead with a long-range shot before Telford went 2-0 up when Udoh stabbed in following a corner.

Avenue were back in the game on 75 minutes when Branson headed home from close range but were unable to bag an equaliser". BPA included ex-Alty men Ryan Toulson and Luca Havern in the starting eleven and Nicky Clee was a 66th minute substitute.

According to the Shropshire Star "Gavin Cowan admitted his side's win over Bradford Park Avenue was one of their best of the campaign. James McQuilkin and Daniel Udoh scored in four early second half minutes to give AFC Telford United a two goal cushion.

Conor Branson pulled one back for the hosts with 15 minutes to go...

After the game Cowan... said 'I think it is our best win of the season in terms of the stage of the season. It is a massive result, coming off the back of two high energy games against Orient. Sometimes that can leave you depleted, and that is why we brought in some new bodies to freshen it up.

'It can go one of two ways and it went the right way, the lads showed character and how they have grown as a group... Some could have forgiven the lads for lacking legs tonight but they were brilliant'.

McQuilkin, playing in the number ten role again was a stand out performer who took his goal well. Cowan added... 'He showed high energy and enthusiasm and nothing phases [fazes] him. If it is 3,500 people or one man and his dog, he wants to win football matches and it is a privilege to see him play like that. I thought Ellis Deeney and Dom Smith were superb, it was a good performance on the whole'...

'We learned from a fantastic team in Orient, who were a bit more efficient'...

The Bucks chief also had some special praise for the supporters, who travelled to West Yorkshire in their numbers".

NL Daily confirm that "Barnsley’s Louis Wardle has joined Curzon Ashton on loan until the end of the season. The versatile youngster has featured 15 times for Martin Devaney’s U23s side this campaign, scoring once, an incredible volley in the 2-1 victory at Sheffield Wednesday which won the club’s Goal of the Month award for November. Wardle can play in defence or midfield"

The Football Man Cave adds that "With only seven fixtures left... there is still a great chance of Curzon Ashton beating their previous highest league finish of 11th in the 2105/16 season... There are a few difficult games in this run in and the stand out one’s for me are both away fixtures.

The first of these is against AFC Telford, who like a lot of teams in this division started strongly, and then have started to wobble a bit. However, their home form is good, and while their defence can be a bit questionable, they are more than capable of finding the back of the net, only failing to score in two games all season.

This could prove problematic for Curzon, who have struggled with their defence at points this season. It could be a high scoring game... The Nash will need to make sure they keep things tight, and not make the mistakes they were making earlier in the season where they were scoring and playing well up front, but letting in a few too many easy goals at the back.

The penultimate game of the season for Curzon is likely to be one of the toughest of the season, against the once mighty Stockport. They have been in flying form this season, and playing them away so close to the end of the season while they are pushing hard for automatic promotion will not be an easy fixture. They have looked dominant in several of their games this season, and comfortably put two past Curzon back in November".

Alfreton Town report that "Jordan Sinnott's second-half penalty secured a point at promotion hopefuls Spennymoor Town and in turn extended the Reds unbeaten league run to five games on Saturday.

Billy Heath made three changes with Danny Clarke, David Lynch and Tom Platt coming into the side. Dec Bacon joined Tom Allan and Callum Chettle on the bench.

The first half saw the hosts dominate the ball in the early stages with top scorer Glen Taylor a main threat for Moors... Communication at the back was an issue for Spenny in the first half with multiple balls forward causing panic between the centre backs and goalie Gould.

Alfreton's best chance of the first half came to Sinnott who struck a stunning free kick from 25 yards which hit the bar and bounced back out... With 22 minutes gone, Spennymoor took the lead when Glen Taylor turned into space on the edge of the box and hit a powerful effort into the bottom corner... The Reds were struggling with the patchy surface which led to us mis-placing passes and in turn soaking up pressure in the first half...

Alfreton came out of the traps quickly in the second half and dominated... Billy Heath then introduced Dec Bacon to the game and his impact was immediate... Tom Platt was taken down in the box after weaving his way through tackles... Sinnott stepped up and to the delight and relief of all, slammed the penalty down the middle to drag the Reds level in what was a deserved goal...

Alfreton settled for the point and produced another positive result against one of the promotion candidates; but certainly with chances created would have felt it should have been more".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Manager Craig Hogg commented... 'Ash Woods could have had four in the end. I thought he was outstanding considering he's got a big lump on the side of his eye from a flying elbow".

The EvoStik League reports that "Hyde United have re-signed winger Ryan Crowther from Ashton United. Crowther, 30, scored 15 goals in 45 appearances between 2011-13 for the Tigers. He came through the ranks at Stockport County before a two-year spell at Liverpool without making a first team appearance. His other previous clubs include Stalybridge Celtic, Fleetwood Town and Altrincham.

Crowther was on the bench for Saturday’sdefeat at South Shields."

In the same league, Jonny Margetts scored as Matlock Town drew 1-1 with Mickleover Sports.

NEXT OPPONENTS: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

From Kidderminster Harriers we learn that "On-loan striker Kwame Thomas admits he’s still hoping to help fire Harriers towards a successful end to the season. The former England U20 International made his first start for the club in the defeat to Brackley. That was the second appearance for the 23-year-old in a Harriers shirt, who is with us on loan from Solihull Moors.

Thomas admits he’s quickly settled to life at Aggborough under management he knows well and is keen to regain his match sharpness quickly with the final half-dozen games of the season approaching.

'The lads have made me feel welcome and I know the management from my time last season at Solihull,' said the ex-Derby County man. [Current Kiddy boss Mark Yates was formerly manager at Solihull].

'It is a great changing room so, hopefully, we can transform that on to the pitch in the coming games and get into the play-offs. I need game time and I wasn’t getting games. In parts I felt like I was blowing a bit on Saturday, but I’ll be better for it in the coming games!

'Hopefully I’ll be sharper, fire in some goals and get us into the play-offs; that’s the ultimate goal.'

Defeat last time out means Harriers have the odds stacked against them to clinch a play-off place... He added 'I think there’s six games left of the season now and we still have points to play for. At the end of the day, if we win six games then we’ll probably be in the play-offs. That’s the kind of mindset we’ve got to go into the next six games with.'"

Also from Kidderminster Harriers we learn that "Congratulations go to the Bermudan National Team who, over the weekend, qualified for their first ever CONCACAF Gold Cup! Bermuda came from behind on Sunday to win 3-1 against Dominican Republic thanks to goals from Zeiko Lewis, Nakhi Wells and Justin Donawa.

Also part of the team was Harriers midfielder Milan Butterfield, who was brought onto the field on 52 minutes and helped his national team make history! This was Butterfield’s second full international appearance, the first arriving at the end of February where he started in a friendly against Cuba. These two international appearances have both arrived since Butterfield progressed through Harriers’ U23s programme to earn a first team contract, where he has now made ten appearances.

Fellow countryman Knory Scott has also been impressing for our U23s after joining at the start of the season; he’s also been playing on the international stage having played seven times for Bermuda U20s. Our U23s programme has gained a growing global appeal, with players travelling from Republic of Ireland, USA, Scotland, Guernsey as well as Bermuda to join us."

ANOTHER FINAL AT THE JDS

NIGEL HOWARTH

A former circuit judge by profession, Nigel frequently brought his expertise in the assessment of evidence to bear on the sometimes questionable decisions of hapless match officials at the J. Davidson Stadium! The club has lost a number of its long-established supporters over the last couple of years and, like them, Nigel's absence from the stadium will be felt by many of his friends and acquaintances.

In his professional life, Nigel retired from the Circuit Bench on the Northern Circuit in February 2006. He had been called to the Bar in 1960 and had been appointed a Circuit Judge in 1992.

Our condolences are extended to Nigel's wife and to his son, Laurence, as well as to the rest of the Howarth family.

MIDWEEK GAMES

Tuesday 26 March 2019

• Bradford (Park Avenue) 1-2 AFC Telford United
• FC United of Manchester 3-3 York City (FCUM were 3-1 up with York reduced to ten men)
• Guiseley 1-0 Curzon Ashton
• Hereford FC 0-2 Brackley Town
• Stockport County 2-1 Ashton United

As things stand on Wednesday morning the play-off line-ups are as follows...

May 1st -Play-Off Qualifying...

• BRADFORD (PARK AVENUE) v AFC TELFORD UNITED
• SPENNYMOOR TOWN v ALTRINCHAM

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Avenue host AFC Telford on the back of a 2-2 draw at Southport when a controversial late equaliser saw Bower's side let a two-goal lead slip. Bradford remain unbeaten in seven in National League North, but the boss wasn't impressed at the manner of the hosts' second goal on Saturday.

He said, 'You have mixed emotions about it. We were in a good position to win and that didn't happen, so you're disappointed. We were probably a little bit flat in the second half, maybe our really tough game on Tuesday (at Spennymoor) caught up with us, when on Saturday we're playing against a full-time team who've not had a game.

'But, once again, if we get the right decision, in terms of their equaliser right at the end, it's a blatant handball, and proven in video and photographs it was a handball, then we go away with the three points. We've won four and drawn two in the last six games. If the officials had done their job right it'd be six wins out of six.

'So it's frustrating and hard to to take, but as well we can make life easy for ourselves by playing better than we did in the second half.'

Bower admits his side got carried away trying to get forward at every opportunity and added that Southport seemed to address that at half-time by dropping off... Bower said 'We've got to be really positive about things. We're just coming off the back of three away games, we've taken seven points from them. We've got players that are playing really well at the minute, they're enjoying their football and we've got that bit of momentum behind us that we've got to make sure we can maintain for as long as we can.

'Everyone's really disappointed straight after the game but, in the grand scheme of things, we're pleased with where we are and how we're playing. The message is to keep that going.'

Avenue have the chance to try stretch the gap to eighth place this evening when they welcome AFC Telford, who sit in the final play-off spot currently. Bower... said that will be a motivating factor. He added 'Telford are very well organised. They're good going forward and they've got four strikers that would probably get in most teams in this league. I don't think people should be surprised by the position they are. They've been in the bottom half of the table for the last couple of years but they've certainly had a bit more of a go this year with the quality players that they've brought in...

'It will be a good barometer for where they are heading into this last stretch of the season.'"

From the other side, the Shropshire Star states that "Determined AFC Telford United chief Gavin Cowan has stressed that FA Trophy heartbreak will spur his side on to promotion...

The Bucks, roared on by more than 3,500 on Saturday, face a quick turnaround and head to the Bradford Park Avenue tonight. 'We are just thinking about the league now and not dwelling on things,' said Cowan, whose side lost 3-1 on aggregate against the O’s. 'We want the season to come full circle and the defeat will give us more motivation to get promoted. It is a dull feeling to lose a semi-final, but we have to go out and play tonight. Play-offs are in everyone’s hand so we need to bring it over the line. Bradford won’t be feeling sorry for us'...

Telford’s trip to the Horsfall Stadium could have a big bearing on their play-off aspirations... Left-sided defender Steph Morley is being assessed for a hamstring injury he picked up in the Trophy semi-final first leg at Orient. The knock forced Morley out of the second-leg. Midfielder Henry Cowans (knee) has stepped up his recovery but it remains touch-and-go whether he will play any more football this term."

Also from the Shropshire Star we learn that "He is not scared to admit it; Amari Morgan-Smith has a big birthday next week.. The soon-to-be 30 year-old is determined to help AFC Telford United overcome Trophy heartache, writes Lewis Cox...

'We’re going away where we won’t have many fans screaming and shouting our names. We’ve got to focus our minds and be up for it,' said Morgan-Smith. 'We’re disappointed at the moment, but we’ve got to get ourselves back up quickly; it’s as simple as that. The experienced lads of us have been there before. People like myself and Barnsey (Barnes-Homer) will get around them and make sure it doesn’t affect them too much. We can’t dwell, we’ve got to move forward. If we dwell too long, that message is really important.

'Some lads might not get this opportunity (promotion) again. Our aim is to get promoted and we want to get that on our CV'...

Morgan-Smith has eight league goals this term, 10 in all competitions, and was satisfied with reaching the double-figure milestone, while setting his sights on another five... He is 30 next Wednesday – but believes there is plenty left in the tank...

Morgan-Smith said of the big day, 'I look forward to it. We’re supposed to get "over the hill" after 30 but I want to try to turn that around. I want to be a new generation that can last longer. I want to play as long as possible, be it 35, 36, or 40... I don’t want to talk about retirement but I want to be in coaching. It intrigues me, I’m always learning under people like Gav. I love football, I’m a student of the game.'

Park Avenue, one of just three sides to leave New Bucks Head with all the points in 17 National North clashes, are in fine nick, seven matches unbeaten.

Morgan-Smith said '“Knowing this league there won’t be much football played on the ground. We want to keep a clean sheet and nick a goal. We haven’t played in the league for a while at need to get back to it.'"

Bulls' News, in advance of Tuesday's games, wrote that "Starting with Brackley this evening, Hereford FC play there of the teams currently in the top five in the next eleven days.

Given the win over Guiseley last Saturday lifted Hereford to a position of twelve points above the relegation zone, does head coach Marc Richards feel the players will have a bit more freedom going into these games?

'Hopefully it will take the shackles off a little bit and it will allow them to express themselves even more than the licence we give them'...

None of the three games will be easy but if the Bulls can pick up a few points along the way that will be a decent return. The squad are expected to travel to Spennymoor late on Friday and may stay in the same hotel as they did on route to Blyth Spartans at the end of January".

The Lancashire Evening Post reports that "Chorley boss Jamie Vermiglio is looking to bolster his squad this week... Vermiglio’s men extended their new record at this level as they made it 22 league wins by beating Leamington 3-0 on Saturday. That saw the Magpies move seven points clear of second-placed Stockport County.

Chorley have six games to complete their title quest and Vermiglio is looking to recruit before they head to Chester... He said '“I think going into the back end of the season with Thursday as the deadline, all teams would be foolish not to think about if they have enough. With injuries and suspensions you could miss some crucial players in those last six games. We are only carrying 17 players.

'We’ve got a few of the younger lads signed on as a bit of insurance but I have been looking for the last couple of weeks to see if there is someone out there. But it needs to be someone who can come and add to the squad, the right person, the right character... The board have backed me on that.'

With Alex Newby still facing two games out due to his three-match ban for a red card at Boston United Vermiglio is keen to add to his attack. He added that midfielder Dale Whitham could also return from his loan spell at FC United. He said 'It is attacking wise; we have more than enough cover defensively. It is midfield and up top where I would worry if we got an injury. We also have Dale Whitham to come back in. He played again after injury and that is another possibility for us if we can get the group together for the last push.'

But Vermiglio stressed he is not expecting any exits with all of his squad committed to helping Chorley’s mission to reach the top tier of non-league for the first time in nearly three decades. He said 'We have had interest as the season has gone on from different parties but the lads have all maintained that, with the strong position we are in, they do not want to lose this opportunity in their careers. They want to make history for Chorley. This would be one of the biggest things the club has done to get back to the top tier of non-league, especially with the teams we are up against. They all want to be a part of it.'”

Darlington have "completed the signing of attacking midfielder Osagi Bascome.

Osagi, 20, has been capped eight times by Bermuda since he made his debut in 2016, and last week was on Concacaf Cup duty with his country in the Dominican Republic. He started his career at Aston Villa in their Academy, before moving on to Valencia and Levante in Spain, before spending three months at Bristol City. He has more recently been at Massanassa in the Spanish League. International clearance has been obtained.

Manager Tommy Wright said, 'Osagi has trained with us for a couple of weeks, and has impressed enough to earn a deal until the end of the season.'”

From the Coventry Telegraph we learn that "D-Day is looming for Nuneaton Borough Football Club as they bid to pay off the taxman after being slapped with a winding up petition.

Acting chairman and manager Jimmy Ginnelly and officials from the Liberty Way-based club will travel to the High Court in London tomorrow to get an order lifted, pay off the £32,000 HMRC debt and unfreeze the club's bank account.

'I hope tomorrow, after we get back from the high court, we can go back to the club, crack open a bottle of champagne and say we have done it, finally we have got to be where we want to be,' Ginnelly said. 'It will be a huge moment for us.'

A key part of this is down to Kash Alsam of Crown Skip who has stepped in to pay the HRMC bill. 'He has come in and said that he is going to pay the bill, which is phenomenal really, in return he is going to have the stadium rights for next season', Ginnelly explained.

Once the HMRC bill is paid then the club can focus on paying off other creditors with a view to being financially stable by the end of the season...

'Pretty much everyone I have spoken to has said 'I will help you save the club', it is very rare that anyone has said "no". We have proved people wrong, I know its cliché but I can't thank the community enough, the support we have had from the people of Nuneaton, the fans turning up, the new investors we have had come in, they have all been brilliant.

'All I have ever done, whatever club I have been at, is come in and tried to help and get support and funds and this is just the same... It has been manic, chaos really. I had to race down to the ground this morning to sign a bit of paper before 10am to make sure that we can go to the High Court tomorrow,' he said.

'Hopefully we will get the order lifted and then we will be able to get across the line. I want to get back to where people in factories and shops are talking and saying "You going down the Boro on Saturday?" That’s where I want us to be again.'

With relegation from the National League North almost certain and with the financial woes set to be sorted, Ginnelly is looking forward to next season. 'The minute I put my foot through the door I knew it would all be about next season, I knew it was something that I was prepared for,' he said...

'The lads have tried really hard, I am desperate for the end of the season to come to be honest so we can rebuild for next season.'"

NEXT OPPONENTS: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

It was a costly defeat for the Reds at St James Park, a Joe Ironside penalty in the first half proving to be no real consolation. Harriers had to face the test without the injured Billy Daniels and Ed Williams, while Milan Butterfield was away with Bermuda ahead of their fixture in the Dominican Republic on Sunday.

Yates reflected, 'We had some big players missing for us. Billy went down on Thursday in training, Ed got injured playing for England C and Milan is away on international duty. Three of the midfield who were excellent last week have decimated the squad really. Brackley started really well but, for the last 25 minutes of the first half, I thought we got to grips with it, looked a threat and a lot more solid.

'In the second half I asked for more of what they’d been doing [and] I thought there was nothing in the game. We got done by a set piece and, after that, our heads dropped; certainly after the penalty. It was difficult without three big players, and Sammy was doing a great job in there and, as soon as we lost him, we lost a bit of impetus and drive.'”

TROPHY FALL-OUT

We can confirm we have also received several reports of an individual who directed racist abuse at an opposition player as well as several supporters who threw a number of objects onto the field of play above the away dug out. These incidents have been reported to the FA as they were picked up on the match officials' report.

As a football club we will not tolerate behaviour which brings our name into disrepute and we are committed to taking action wherever we have evidence. We will also share information with the Police so that criminal proceedings can be considered.".

Leyton Orient add that "The Club can confirm a number of objects were thrown at members of the playing staff and backroom staff by members of the crowd during Saturday's FA Trophy match against AFC Telford United. We are also aware of several reports of racial abuse directed at a member of our squad. We will fully support AFC Telford United and the relevant authorities with the investigation into these incidents."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

But 'little niggles' could keep them out of the rearranged National League North clash, with City assistant-manager Micky Cummins revealing... 'Jon Parkin had a knock to his back and Kallum Griffiths and David Mirfin also have a bit of tightness in their groins.'

Cummins went on to suggest that the Minstermen are likely to persevere with the 4-4-2 formation that they switched to against Boston. 'The formation worked to a degree, particularly in the first half when we were 2-0 up and created some opportunities,' the City coach reasoned. 'Parky (Parkin) also did well with balls up to him when we got runners off and behind him. We might be looking at players in different positions, but we want to win games and be positive with our line-ups... It’s good to have the game straight away because we’re looking to bounce back from Saturday’s second-half performance when we didn’t punish Boston, which was disappointing, as was surrendering a two-goal lead when they only managed three shots on target.

'These things have been niggling at us since the game, because we had worked on them beforehand and have done so again so, hopefully, we’ll see results from that now. Mental strength also has to be addressed after you’ve given a team a chance to come back from 2-0 down.'

Despite third-bottom FC United being mired in relegation trouble and losing 3-1 at Curzon Ashton on Saturday, Cummins has also issued a warning concerning the hosts’ potential match-winners. 'They get very mixed results, because they went away and beat Telford, but lost at the weekend,' he pointed out. 'But we know that they have two or three individual players that can win them a game. They’ll be a bit low on confidence and are very direct from back to front. We’ve had them watched twice and we’ll be approaching the match looking to get a win.'"

Ashton United are "hoping to produce a ‘hats off’ performance as the Robins travel to the Hatters" writes Tom Langford. "Ashton United are back on the road this Tuesday evening as the Robins take on Stockport County...

Ashton’s last league game was a disappointing home defeat to Blyth Spartans. The Robins lost 3-0 to Blyth with the Northumberland-based side putting Ashton to the sword in the first half with Blyth racing to a 3-0 lead in the first 30 minutes. The Robins performance picked up in the second half but couldn’t muster a comeback.

On the other hand, Stockport County last played a league game back on the 9th of March with the Hatters participating in the FA Trophy semi-finals. In the FA Trophy, Stockport lost 3-2 to National League side AFC Fylde...

Ashton United head into the game in horrific form with the Robins failing to pick up any points in their last 4 league games. Furthermore, the Robins have failed to score in those 4 defeats. However, on the road, the Robins have been more reliable with Ashton winning 2 out of their last 4 league games.

On the other hand, Stockport County comes into the game in decent form with the Hatters winning 4 of their last 5 league games. Stockport also best one of the best home records in the League with the Hatters undefeated at home in their last 12 games and have only lost twice at home in the League all season... Stockport also boasts the best defensive record in the league with the Hatters only letting in 30 goals all season...

One player for both travelling Ashton fans and the Ashton’s defence to keep an eye on is star striker Matthew Warburton. Warburton joined County in May of 2017 and contributed 21 goals in 45 appearances in his first season for the club. Warburton has continued to develop with the forward bagging 16 goals in the League this season for the Hatters. Warburton has played for multiple Manchester based clubs with the striker having represented Salford and local rivals Curzon Ashton.

The last time Ashton played Stockport was back in December with the Hatters smashing the Robins 6-0".

According to Coventry City, "Sky Blues' defender Jak Hickman joined Hereford last week and this past weekend he made his debut for The Bulls against Guiseley. Hereford came away from the game with a 1-0 win and Hickman started the game, seeing out the full 90 minutes for Marc Richards’ side.

On his debut, Hickman was named the man of the match by the sponsor’s for the game, after making an immediate impression for his loan side".

MIDWEEK GAMES

FC United (20th), who have only won once at home this season to date, will be hoping they can defeat York (14th) whose season is effectively over. If they do and Guiseley (19th), who looked awful on Saturday at Edgar Street, lose to Curzon Ashton (11th), then FC United and Guiseley will be equal on points.

Bradford PA (4th) will probably be too strong for Telford (7th) especially given Telford have lost their last three and Bradford are unbeaten in five. Finally Hereford (16th) entertain Brackley (5th) at Edgar Street. The visitors are in good form and have won four of their last five games including a 3-1 over Kidderminster (8th) on Saturday. The Bulls are unbeaten in five but all those games have been against teams in the lower end of the league. It would be surprising if Brackley don't win".

NEXT OPPONENTS: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

Simon Richman had picked up a hamstring injury in training so was not in the squad for the game. In addition, leading scorer Jordan Hulme was unfit to start so Tom Peers again led the attack.

Altrincham went into the 2018 game lying thirteenth but were undone by three poorly conceded first-half goals. After the first goal, which arrived when Elliot Wynne spilt a shot, which Kidderminster's Ed Williams comfortably netted from close range, Alty had much the better of the middle portion of the first half and deservedly equalised after 24 minutes. Loanee Owen Dale did well on the right wing and his low cross saw Tom Peers barged over in the box, only for the ball to run on to John Johnston who scored with a well-placed low shot.

But, ten minutes before the interval, Altrincham allowed Kidderminster's Johnson to advance and feed Bradley. From left of goal the striker hit a low shot across Wynne and into the far corner of the net.

And, in the 45th minute, the Harriers breached the centre of Altrincham's defence with Williams's threaded ball presenting Chambers with a straightforward chance, which he took, to make it a flattering 3-1 to the hosts at the interval.

Horsfall's foul on his opposite number, Hannigan, gave Altrincham a 53rd minute freekick, right of goal. Harrop's freekick diverted off a defender and wrong-footed the keeper to make it 3-2. The hosts held on to their lead despite James Poole's header hitting the post and very strong appeals for a penalty when Hancock went down in the box. Altrincham dropped to fifteenth.

KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS: 1. Brandon HALL, 2.Lee VAUGHAN, 3. Sam AUSTIN, 4. Jimmy O'CONNOR (c), 5. Fraser HORSFALL, 6. Ryan JOHNSON, 7. Declan WEEKS, 8. Billy DANIELS, 9. Dan BRADLEY, 10. Ashley CHAMBERS, 11. Ed WILLIAMS. Subs: 12. Kane RICHARDS, 14. Joe IRONSIDE, 15. Kennedy DIGIE, 16. James BAXENDALE, 17. Tom PALMER.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Elliot WYNNE, 2. Andy WHITE, 3. Connor HAMPSON, 4. James JONES, 5. Tom HANNIGAN, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Sean WILLIAMS, 9. Tom PEERS, 10. Max HARROP, 11. Owen DALE. Subs: 12. Josh HANCOCK, 14. Jordan HULME, 15. Liam GOULDING, 16. James POOLE, 20. Tony THOMPSON.

Above: Alty line up at Aggborough in September.

For Altrincham's last match, at York on 9 March, there were four changes from the September line-up against the Harriers. For the more recent game, Thompson was in goal, Hulme was the striker whilst Josh Hancock and Yusifu Ceesay wore the numbers 10 and 11 respectively.

As for the Harriers they have seen more changes of personnel since the September encounter. Off the field they have their third manager of the season in Mark Yates, who arrived in January 2019. He replaced temporary manager Colin Gordon, who had earlier replaced Neil McFarlane.

And the Kidderminster team last Saturday also shows changes, with only five of their starters in September (Hall, Austin, Horsfall, Johnson, Chambers) starting their most recent fixture, a 3-1 defeat at Brackley last Saturday. Ironside, who had been a sub in the September game started the most recent game, whilst Weeks moved from being a starter in the 2018 game to being named on the subs' bench last Saturday. He was joined by Richards and Palmer who were on bench for both games in question.

Before the match next Saturday, Kidderminster lie eighth, two places behind Altrincham but the Harriers have played two more games than the Robins and are three points behind their hosts.

Mike Garnett provides the historical record of games between the two clubs which shows that the outcomes are evenly apportioned.

• At home: P25-W11-D5-L9-F35-A31
• Away: P27-W9-D7-L11-F29-A44
• All: P52-W20-D12-L20-F64-A75

AWAY WIN FOR YOUTH TEAM

Their next game is at tenth-placed Heswall FC.

RESERVES' ANXIOUS WAIT

Pilkington's two remaining fixtures are at home:

• 06/04/19 v Egerton FC, who lie 13th out of 16.
• 20/04/19 v Congleton VR, who lie 10th.

WIN FOR LADIES

The Ladies' next game is at Mersey Valley against next to bottom club Wythenshawe Amateurs.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

But, as City squandered several second-half openings, the visitors levelled through Jay Rollins and Max Wright...

'It felt like a defeat,' he admitted. 'We said at half-time that the game’s third goal would be vital, and we actually started the second half better than we did the first... but we were so wasteful and poor in front of goal. I don’t think we really tested their keeper in open play and that’s been the case for the last three games. I’ve known a lot of them for a long time and know they are technically better than that, which is very disappointing. Newt's strike was fantastic, while Macca did well following up for his goal, but it is another game where we haven’t scored in open play.

'I counted six really good chances to score or pick the right pass in the second half and nothing came from them, while Boston probably had three opportunities and they’ve taken two, which is a damning statistic, although I don’t think we reacted quickly enough to danger for their first goal. The more the second half went on, the more frustrating it got.

'We know exactly what’s wrong and we’ve worked relentlessly for two weeks on breakaway situations and making the right decisions but, for some reason, that’s not being translated into games. With our position in the league now, we should be able to play with a bit of freedom and positivity but, whilst I can give them as much confidence as I can because I won’t come out and berate them, they have to show their ability in training on a match day.

'I know they can do it, but football is littered with people who can put the ball in the back of the net during training.'

Having seen his team struggle for attacking potency during goal-less, back-to-back displays against Scarborough and Altrincham, Watson decided to dispense with the previous 4-3-3 system and fielded Parkin and Jordan Burrow as a two-man strikeforce. On that decision, the ex-Everton defender reasoned 'I wanted to change things because we haven’t been scoring and we almost played 4-2-4, because we’ve got to win games. We also made positive substitutions. We put Wes (York) on and Alex Kempster for Adriano Moke, but nothing really came of that, so we threw everything at it, but we were not good enough with the ball.'

Veteran striker Parkin did receive praise, however, for his 63-minute contribution after being handed his first start since September 1. 'I thought he did a lot of good things,' Watson said of Parkin’s surprise outing. 'He took the free kick for the second goal and, when you get the ball into his feet, he’s a good footballer. He can play balls around the corner and put people in. He won a lot of headers as well against a formidable opponent in Cressy (Ryan Cresswell) but, as the game went on, his lack of match fitness was always going to come into play, and you run the risk of him running out of steam after an hour.

'He’s arguably the best scorer in the club, so he deserves a chance when we’re not scoring goals and I’d have liked to see an opportunity drop to Jon, because he didn’t get one, but he reminded me and everybody else that he’s still got a part to play in this season.'

In-form defender Newton also received plaudits.... 'He’s getting back to the player I remember from seeing him in the past and the one the fans here probably remember,' Watson declared. 'He’s was head and shoulders above everybody else and he is playing with confidence now, which was summed up by his goal, because you probably wouldn’t try that shot otherwise, but he hit it with pace, power and accuracy'...

Langstaff was also handed his first City start in 11 weeks after returning from a one-month loan spell at Bradford Park Avenue and, whilst he got on the scoresheet, Watson argued that he wants his ex-Gateshead forward, who has now netted six times in 29 outings for the club, to be more of a goal threat".

At Blyth Spartans "Alun Armstrong was full of praise for his side after their 3-0 win away at Ashton United...

Goals from Kieran Green, Louis Laing and Dan Maguire in the opening half hour secured the three points as Spartans rose to 12th in the Vanarama National League North. After two Saturdays without a game... 'It was important we avoided a performance like we produced last year in a similar situation against North Ferriby United, we had to ensure history was not set to repeat itself'.

Spartans' front six lacked the accustomed height of Robert Dale and Sean Reid, but still proved a threat from set-pieces, scoring twice from corners. 'Robbie has been away skiing this week and he just got back yesterday so I decided to start him on the bench, and Sean Reid is getting married shortly so he will miss a few games. I have got to be loyal to the lads who are here week in, week out and make sure they get the chances they deserve.'

A first clean sheet for 11 games brought praise... 'I thought Louis Laing was outstanding, and Michael Liddle has come back in after injury and done really well. Connor Oliver came back in today and the amount of work he got through was unbelievable, some of the lads said it was like having another Jarrett Rivers out there with the workrate he put in, he was all over the park. And Greeny has worked his nuts off to get himself into probably the best condition I have ever seen him in. If he keeps doing what he is doing he’ll get back to what he wants to be, a professional footballer...

'Every single one gave me at least eight out of ten today and that is what we need from them'".

According to the Yorkshire Evening Post "Joint-manager Marcus Bignot called on Guiseley’s players to learn some harsh lessons quickly after they fell to a fourth straight 1-0 defeat.

Hereford were the victors on this occasion, consigning the Lions to a 12th game without a win and hovering just three points above the drop zone.

'It is another loss by a single goal and the performance was not enough to win the game,' said Bignot. 'But we should have left with a point'...

New signing Lewis Archer made his debut for The Lions and linked up well with Jack Dyche early on but the hosts’ defence coped well... There were few chances in the first-half as Hereford had two shots on target through Mike Symons and Kyle Finn, both of which were easily dealt with by goalkeeper Marcus Dewhurst.

Both sides made changes just after the start of the second-half, leading to the game opening up... The home side took the lead with just over 10 minutes to go, a free-kick found an unmarked Josh Gowling, who made no mistake from just a few yards out...

Guiseley are next in action tomorrow using their game in hand as they take on 11th-placed Curzon Ashton at Nethermoor".

The Northern Echo reports that "Growing up in Jamaica, longing to one day play in England, it is unlikely Omar Holness’s dreams as a boy included realising his ambition by playing on a dreadful pitch in the second tier of non-league football. Marking the occasion by being sent off will not have ranked high among his ambitions either.

That is the scenario Holness found himself in on Saturday when in the starting XI for the first time in Darlington’s game in Warwickshire away to rock-bottom Nuneaton Borough at the sparsely populated Liberty Way stadium. He can rarely have felt further away from Kingston.

Yet Nuneaton had a man of their own sent off too on a day in which their relegation came closer to reality and Darlington took a significant step closer safety, now on 40 points, ten above the bottom three, after a low-quality but crucial 2-1 win.

'We knew it wasn’t going to be a classic when we turned up and saw the pitch,' admitted manager Tommy Wright. His team have seven games to play, and he added, 'We’ve put ourselves in this, we’ve only got ourselves to blame, we’re not blaming anyone else, it’s our own fault and now we have to get out of it. Whether that win today is enough, probably not.'

A win on Wednesday at home to Chester would allow everyone of a Quaker persuasion to breathe more easily. Holness no doubt felt relieved that his dismissal for two bookable offences did not spoil his or Darlington’s day... Henshall’s cross was headed in by Stephen Thompson to give Quakers a 13th minute lead, one they relinquished after a spell of Nuneaton pressure culminated in Miles Addison heading home just before the half-hour mark from a corner that Darlington disputed.

Holness, booked for his protestations, later admitted, ' I definitely have to work on managing my emotions during the game. The referee said it was dissent. I simply went over and shouted at him, telling him it was the wrong decision and I definitely believe that it was the wrong decision.'

Jordan Nicholson, one of four former Nuneaton players in Darlington’s team, took his goal tally for the season to ten when he got the winner, scoring an uncharacteristic back-post header. It came early in the second half, meeting a pinpoint cross by Thompson, who later put Nicholson in on goal before he was dragged down by Devon Kelly Evans.

Referee Scott Simpson dismissed the Nuneaton offender, but then infuriated Darlington by ruling out Thompson’s terrific goal from the resulting free-kick, halting play just as Quakers’ man of the match struck the ball.

'I don’t know why the game has to stop for a Nuneaton player changing his boots,' said Wright. 'The referee blew his whistle, Thommo took the kick and as the ball has gone into the top corner he blows the whistle again'...

Soon after Nuneaton’s 63rd minute red, Holness was dismissed too, a rash challenge on Rhys Sharpe giving Simpson an easy opportunity to make it ten versus ten. 'Once you’re on a yellow you’ve got to tread carefully and got to pull out of tackles,' admitted Wright'...

Nuneaton had sprung a surprise on the eve of the game by signing former Darlington misfit James Caton, released by Wright in January... yet, much like most of his 18 months with Darlington ,the forward made little impact. Almost unrecognisable without his bleach-blonde hair and trademark gloves, a noticeably bulked-up Caton’s most notable moment came when trying to take the ball past Simon Ainge and succeeded only in falling over and seeing the ball trickle out of play...

This was a contest between teams positioned 17th and 22nd in the table and it showed, loose passes littering play on a surface that made the game a challenge to both play and watch".

On Lincolnshire Live "Craig Elliott praised his Boston United players after watching the Pilgrims come back from a two-goal deficit to share the spoils against York City on Saturday. Second half goals from Jay Rollins and Max Wright ensured the Pilgrims left Bootham Crescent with a 2-2 draw, having trailed to first half efforts from Sean Newton and Macaulay Langstaff.

United now have 28 points to their credit on their travels and have emerged unbeaten from away fixtures against full-time outfits Kidderminster Harriers, Southport and York in the early weeks of 2019.

'It adds to the record we have got and we can be proud of our away record this season,' reflected Elliott. 'It’s another difficult place to come and it looks an even better point when you are 2-0 down. That’s when you realise how difficult this league is. There are some big teams with big budgets, full-time outfits, with big crowds. It’s a credit to the players. We deserved something out of the game.'

'There was not much in the game and no real clear-cut chances,' added Elliott. 'The first goal was fantastic, a good free-kick, and you have to accept that. I think George has got to do better for the second goal by pushing it out for a corner or save it better than he did. I was disappointed with that.'

United’s comeback got going on the hour mark when Rollins turned home Nicky Walker’s ball across the box and the Pilgrims sealed a point when Grimsby Town loanee Wright curled an exquisite effort past Adam Bartlett from 20 yards.. The Pilgrims held on to move within five points of the play-off positions, albeit with seventh-placed AFC Telford United having two games in hand".

FC United’s "hopes of survival took another blow as they went down 3-1 to near neighbours Curzon Ashton on Saturday afternoon, with Harry Winter being shown a red card in the second half.

With Guiseley also losing it means the gap between FC and the Yorkshire side is still three points but FC are quickly running out of games to close that gap. The afternoon had started well with Kurt Willoughby taking advantage of a defensive error and slotting home from just outside the six-yard box, but an afternoon that had begun so promising[ly] soon started to unravel.

With little over five minutes left of the first half some poor marking from FC from a corner allowed Sean Miller to head home and level the score... The signs were promising going into the second half, with FC finishing the first off well and showing the fight that would be needed for a pivotal second half. But just minutes into the second half the home team had the lead and it was again from poor marking from a corner. This time Jonathon Hunt was the benefactor, heading his side in front.

The early blow seemed to take the wind out of the sails for FC and they really struggled to get anything going in the second period... With just over 20 minutes left, Harry Winter was shown a red card for an altercation with Curzon’s Daniel Shaw. Despite both players raising their hands to each other, it was Winter who was sent off, whereas Shaw was just given a booking for his part in the fracas.

As FC pushed a higher defensive line, looking to take the game into the opposition half, it left them vulnerable to the counter attack and it was such a counter that saw Curzon grab the third and with it any hopes of the Reds getting anything from the game. Miller took the ball on the half way line and went on a solo run, rounding Fisher and neatly putting the ball away to seal a miserable afternoon for FC.

The players and management will know that the performance simply wasn’t good enough and for a team fighting for their survival in the league you’d want to see a bit more passion on the pitch. That being said it was FC’s first defeat in five games and with a rearranged game at Broadhurst Park on Tuesday they have an immediate opportunity to bounce straight back.

Website man of the match: Chris Lynch. Was flat out on his feet by the end of the game, having given so much, showing the desire that’s going to be needed in the final games to pull off an amazing recovery".

Bradford's Telegraph & Argus informs us/A> that "A 90th-minute equaliser denied Bradford (Park Avenue) victory at Southport as the hosts came back from 2-0 down. The score had also finished 2-2 when the sides met at Horsfall before Christmas.

And while Avenue stretched their current unbeaten run to seven games, the edge was taken away from a good point at Liam Watson’s Sandgrounders by the feeling of what might have been. Mark Bower’s men remain fourth and are still on the same points as third-placed Spennymoor Town, who were held to a 1-1 home draw by Alfreton Town.

Brackley Town crept up to within one point as the Saints, who are fifth, won 3-1 at home against Kidderminster Harriers.

Jake Beesley netted a brace at the Merseyrail Community Stadium but he could have had five goals on the day as he proved to be difficult for the Port defence to handle... He netted a close-range header. He was on target again just after the half-hour mark when he was picked out by a long clearance from keeper Charlie Andrew.

He controlled the ball and again rounded Hanford before steering a shot into the unguarded net...

It was a game of two halves as the home side came out fired up after the interval and forced Andrew into action. He made a good save to deny Dion Charles early in the second half but was powerless to prevent an excellent shot from Jordan Archer cutting the deficit... It was a Port substitute who got the last-gasp equaliser. A long throw in from Regan Ogle in the 90th minute floated over Andrew’s clenched fist before dropping to Jason Gilchrist. His first effort hit the bar but in the ensuing scramble he was able to turn the ball over the line."

CHESHIRE NEWS

• Northwich Victoria 1-1 Chertsey Town (Att: 1288)

Saturday 30 March 2019 2nd Leg:

• Chertsey Town v Northwich Victoria

The opponents in the final are the subject of a report from London News Online which says that "Cray Valley PM have reached the FA Vase final at Wembley, with former Dulwich Hamlet striker Gavin Tomlin netting a vital goal in today’s 1-1 draw semi-final second leg at Canterbury City. The Millers had a 1-0 lead from the first leg. Tomlin had put Cray Valley into a 2-0 lead on aggregate only for City to net late on and make it a nervy finish".

NORTHERN NEWS

The NPL had to await formal notification of the liquidation before it could confirm its position... The Premier Division league table will be updated to reflect the changes as soon as possible

In terms of the impact on relegation, North Ferriby United will remain as the bottom club in the table. Two further teams, placed 20th and 21st, will also be automatically relegated to step 4." As of March 23 those two teams are Workington and Mickleover Sports.

NEXT OPPONENTS CLASH

Kidderminster Harriers reported that "Harriers were dealt a punishing 3-1 defeat at Brackley. Harriers were behind early as James Armson struck, but were level at the break thanks to a Joe Ironside penalty.

Ironside had a good chance to put Harriers ahead after the break, but it was the hosts who added two further goals, an Ndlovu header and a Byrne penalty, to clinch the victory.

Up against a Saints side looking to avoid the play-off eliminators, Harriers found themselves on the back-foot from the off... While defending at one end, Harriers had to make the best of a few scraps up at the other... before, on 37, Harriers got themselves level. After being fouled in the area, Ironside dusted himself down to finish from the spot, in off the post.

That enabled Harriers to finish the first half and begin the second with a little more impetus, but found themselves disrupted soon enough after Sam Austin was forced off through injury, with the Reds already missing Billy Daniels, Ed Williams and Milan Butterfield on this day...

[After 70 minutes] Brackley were back in front. Ndlovu looked to be offside as he turned the ball home on the line from a corner, but visiting protests fell on deaf ears. A tall order at 2-1 became worse soon after as Brackley netted a third. Byrne, minutes after hitting the post with a header, confidently dispatched a penalty after Liam McAlinden had fouled Fairlamb inside the area.

There was more than 10 minutes to play at that stage but, in truth, neither side really looked like adding to the score; the home side more than happy to see out yet another victory to continue their fantastic own form, while Harriers are left looking for favours from elsewhere to make their play-off dream a reality".

CSC FINAL AT MOSS LANE

SATURDAY GATES

• Ashton United 0 3 Blyth Spartans Att.215
• Brackley Town 3 1 Kidderminster Harriers Att.845
• Chorley 3 0 Leamington Att.1507
• Curzon Ashton 3 1 FC United of Manchester Att.1075
• Hereford 1 0 Guiseley Att.2261
• Nuneaton Borough 1 2 Darlington Att.620
• Southport 2 2 Bradford (Park Avenue) Att.949
• Spennymoor Town 1 1 Alfreton Town Att.1083
• York City 2 2 Boston United Att.2594

BUILDBASE FA TROPHY

Leyton Orient and AFC Fylde will come together under the Arch on May 19 for the showpiece season finale... Orient secured their place with a gutsy 2-1 victory at AFC Telford.

They survived a scare after Matt Harrold was sent off after 26 minutes, that after he put Justin Edinburgh’s team into the lead early on.

The Bucks, who were a goal down going into the second leg, drew themselves level through Ellis Deeney but Orient made it safe.

They will make the short trip across London in two months’ time thanks to Josh Coulson’s winner on the day making it 3-1 on aggregate.

They face Fylde who won through after a thrilling 3-2 victory at Stockport County.

Alex Reid booked their place in the final with a minute to go after they finally broke the resistance of the National League North title chasers.

Danny Rowe’s penalty made it 1-1 before Ryan Croasdale turned the tie around.

County drew level through Ash Palmer in the 87th minute but their heart was broken by Reid seconds later."

The Shropshire Star reports on the Bucks' defeat.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Elsewhere the IrnBru Scottish Challenge Cup final at Inverness saw Welsh club Connah's Quay Nomads beaten by Ross County. CQN featured former Alty striker Andy Owens as their striker and former Alty trialist Michael Bakare also played for the Welsh team.

Welsh Premier adds that "Three goals in the final fifteen minutes saw Ross County beat Connah's Quay Nomads 3-1 to lift the IRN-BRU Cup at the Caledonian Stadium in Inverness. Nomads took a first half lead through Michael Bakare, and should have been further in front at the break, but had to withstand copious County pressure in the second half until the breakthrough was made.

The game got off to an even start in the first twenty minutes. County looked dangerous with their build up play, the Nomads relying a lot on the long ball and Andy Owens’ long throws to target the Staggies’ defence.

The visitors grew in confidence though after fifteen or so, and it was a long ball that saw the breakthrough, County failing to deal with a John Danby knock, and it fell to Michael Bakare who took it to the edge of the box and rifled one into the top corner"

In the EvoStik League, Andrai Jones netted for Stafford Rangers as they drew with Warrington Town.

In the FA Trophy, Nyal Bell scored Stockport's first goal as they exited the competition at the semi-final stage.

The EvoStik League tells us that Ryan Crowther's registration with Glossop NE has been transferred to Hyde United.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The Pilgrims trailed 2-0 at half-time courtesy of Sean Newton's stunning long-range free-kick and Macaulay Langstaff's close-range finish.

Jay Rollins reduced the arrears on the hour mark and Wright rescued a point with 12 minutes to play with a fine curling effort from 20 yards."

At York City, the home side "squandered a two goal lead and allowed Boston United a share of the spoils at Bootham Crescent. First half goals from Sean Newton and Macaulay Langstaff had put City firmly in command with 30 minutes to play but striker Jay Rollins reduced the deficit and Max Wright equalised in the 78th minute.

Manager Steve Watson had made two changes to the side that lost to Altrincham a fortnight ago; strikers Langstaff and Jon Parkin replacing Alex Kempster and and Wes York.

City also switched formation as Watson employed an attacking 4-2-4 line-up that saw Scott Burgess and Patrick McLaughlin operating in the centre of the park. After a closely contested first 24 minutes, City took the lead courtesy of a sensational Newton freekick. Former City midfielder Nicky Wroe fouled Parkin 25 yards out and Newton curled an unstoppable shot over the wall and in off the crossbar.

It was another freekick that led to City doubling their advantage in the 38th minute, after Parkin had been fouled by former City trialist Ryan Cresswell. Parkin's low shot was only half saved by goalkeeper Willis and Langstaff tucked home the loose ball...

Boston then began to get a foothold in the contest and pushed City back... Rollins reduced the deficit by scoring from close-range on the hour mark after Nicky Walker beat David Mirfin to a loose ball in the box and turned the ball goalwards. Wright then levelled for Boston in the 78th minute, curling the ball past Bartlett with neat shot on the turn from the edge of the box.

City reverted to a 4-3-3 for the final 30 minutes and should have regained the lead with seven minutes to play... but substitute Wes York could only hit [a] loose ball wide from inside the six yard box".

At Chorley "The game took a while to warm up as both sides struggled to create any openings. Chorley built a bit of pressure against a well-drilled Leamington side, which allowed Adam Blakeman to eek out a chance that flew just over the bar. Marcus Carver and Elliot Newby also had half-openings, but the visitors stood firm.

That was until centre back Jamie Hood stood on the ball while trying to shepherd the ball out for a goal kick, allowing Carver to steal in and finish with confidence to give The Magpies a deserved lead... The second half saw limited action until the final 20 minutes... The Brakes' number one could do nothing with Carver’s lob as the forward bagged his 15th of the season following Wilson’s flick-on...

There was still time for sub Adam McGurk to force Breeden into a stunning stop to keep the score respectable, before fellow sub Louis Almond fired the third goal, cutting inside before finishing low beyond the ‘keeper".

Opponents, Leamington added that "We knew that we wouldn’t have Junior English today but to lose Connor Gudger this morning was a blow as it didn’t allow us to set up as we would have liked to. If you analyse the game before the second goal, the period before that from sixty to seventy we got around the back a bit and enjoyed more of the ball, but we didn’t work the keeper enough or get enough shots off.

In that period though, while it was still 1-0, you start to think we could nick something here but, sadly, the second goal, like the first one, will be one that you look back and be disappointed with. The first goal is a slip, the second just a big clearance, and we haven’t dealt with them well, but I think the good period we had in the game rattled them a little bit, which happens when you are chasing titles and there is pressure on you, but we didn’t take advantage and they did what good sides do and put us to bed then, but to be fair if you take the last few minutes out of the game when we were ragged and lost our shape a bit, we were well in the game for long periods...

The bottom line is that we are in a better position at 5 o’clock tonight than we were at three. It’s another game ticked off and we’ve still got that cushion. We’ve had a good couple of weeks but I think today was a little bit too much for us but we’ll regroup and the squad will be stronger next week with one or two back".

From Darlington we learn that "Quakers collected three valuable points at Nuneaton to go ten points clear of the relegation zone. The pitch was very bobbly and didn't lend itself at all to good football, so it was maybe no surprise that all the goals in the game came from headers. At least, though, Quakers prevailed for their first win ever over Nuneaton...

Quakers took the lead on 13 minutes. Omar Holness played a great 50 yard ball out to the right for Alex Henshall to cut inside and deliver a perfect cross to the far post for Stephen Thompson to head home his 92nd goal for the club...

Nuneaton scored from [a] corner that was floated into the near post for Miles Addison to head past Turner on 28 minutes...

Quakers went back in front on 48 minutes. Trotman found Thompson, who cut in from the right, and chipped the ball with his left foot to the far post, where Jordan Nicholson headed in his tenth goal of the season.

Nuneaton were reduced to ten men on 63 minutes when Nicholson raced on to a Thompson pass, and was pulled back by Kelly-Evans as he burst through, and the referee produced an immediate red card. The ref blew his whistle for the free kick, Thompson curled the ball into the top corner, but the ref stopped play with his whistle again because of a hold up.

But Quakers were reduced to ten men on 69 minutes when Holness, who was shown a yellow in the first half, was shown a second yellow for a foul. After that, Quakers were content to kill the game at every opportunity, and stifle Nuneaton in midfield".

According to Hereford FC "It wasn't pretty but The Bulls stuck to their task well to secure a hard-earned three points against stubborn opposition in Guiseley as Josh Gowling’s goal proved to be the difference...

. The half ended with three corners in quick succession for the visitors... In fairness there was not a great deal of quality during the opening period [of the second half], but it was The Bulls who enjoyed the majority of possession and created what few opportunities there were...

We finally managed to get our noses in front with just over ten minutes to go when a free-kick from Danny Greenslade found Gowling in front of goal and he was able to bundle the ball home from close range to make it 1-0".

Down at the bottom, Nuneaton Town, before Saturday's defeat, told us that "Nuneaton Borough have confirmed the signings of midfielder Bekir Halil and forward Dimitri Dunkley. The pair will know some familiar faces in the dressing room as they both featured for Romulus alongside Ty Belford and Taylor Allen under Dale Belford earlier this season. Both signed in time to face Darlington this afternoon."

Also "Nuneaton Borough have confirmed the signing of forward James Caton, he will likely make his debut today against his former club Darlington. Caton was born in Widnes... Joining Bolton Wanderers as a nine-year-old schoolboy, he was a part of the England U16s' setup that won the Victory shield, turning professional with Bolton in 2010. After his release by Bolton, James featured in Football League matches for Blackpool, Accrington Stanley and Shrewsbury Town. Caton has also had spells in the National League with Wrexham, Lincoln City, Southport and Dover Athletic."

Up at Spennymoor Town "A second half penalty from Jordan Sinnott cancelled out Glen Taylor’s 28th goal of the season as Moors’ winless run stretched to five games. A dominant spell of pressure from the visitors paid off when Stephen Brogan brought down Thomas Platt with fifteen minutes to go, allowing Sinnott to earn the in-form Alfreton a worthy point.

Taylor’s effort from 20 yards in the first half had given Spennymoor a deserved advantage, but they were unable to build on that promising spell.

Jason Ainsley brought in Jack Diamond and Lewis Hawkins after the pair signed on loan on Friday, and also opted to replace Callum Williams with Jake Hibbs at right-back. Shane Henry, who started on the bench against Bradford (Park Avenue), came in for the injured Mark Anderson, while Rob Ramshaw missed out through suspension...

It was Moors who would soon be ahead as Taylor showed his class and quality yet again this season. The striker stuck a sweet shot from distance which found its way into the bottom corner via the hand of Sam Ramsbottom...

Ryan Hall missed a big chance to effectively end Alfreton’s afternoon when his shot from a tight angle was smothered by Ramsbottom, allowing The Reds to come back into the game in a one-sided second period...

After Thomas Platt’s run was halted by the challenge of Brogan, referee Andrew Kitchen allowed Sinnott the chance to equalise, and it was an offer the striker[?] took with an assured spot-kick".

The EvoStik League reports that Connor Hughes has moved from Curzon Ashton FC to Atherton Collieries on a short-term loan as has Lloyd Allinson from FC United of Manchester to Nantwich Town.

Also, Ionut Anghel has moved from Ashton United to Kendal Town on a youth loan as has Lewis Doyle from Southport to Witton Albion.

NEXT OPPONENTS: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

Simon Richman had picked up a hamstring injury in training so was not in the squad for the game. In addition, leading scorer Jordan Hulme was unfit to start so Tom Peers again led the attack.

Altrincham went into the 2018 game lying thirteenth but were undone by three poorly conceded first-half goals. After the first goal, which arrived when Elliot Wynne spilt a shot, which Kidderminster's Ed Williams comfortably netted from close range, Alty had much the better of the middle portion of the first half and deservedly equalised after 24 minutes. Loanee Owen Dale did well on the right wing and his low cross saw Tom Peers barged over in the box, only for the ball to run on to John Johnston who scored with a well-placed low shot.

But, ten minutes before the interval, Altrincham allowed Kidderminster's Johnson to advance and feed Bradley. From left of goal the striker hit a low shot across Wynne and into the far corner of the net.

And, in the 45th minute, the Harriers breached the centre of Altrincham's defence with Williams's threaded ball presenting Chambers with a straightforward chance, which he took, to make it a flattering 3-1 to the hosts at the interval.

Horsfall's foul on his opposite number, Hannigan, gave Altrincham a 53rd minute freekick, right of goal. Harrop's freekick diverted off a defender and wrong-footed the keeper to make it 3-2. The hosts held on to their lead despite James Poole's header hitting the post and very strong appeals for a penalty when Hancock went down in the box. Altrincham dropped to fifteenth.

KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS: 1. Brandon HALL, 2.Lee VAUGHAN, 3. Sam AUSTIN, 4. Jimmy O'CONNOR (c), 5. Fraser HORSFALL, 6. Ryan JOHNSON, 7. Declan WEEKS, 8. Billy DANIELS, 9. Dan BRADLEY, 10. Ashley CHAMBERS, 11. Ed WILLIAMS. Subs: 12. Kane RICHARDS, 14. Joe IRONSIDE, 15. Kennedy DIGIE, 16. James BAXENDALE, 17. Tom PALMER.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Elliot WYNNE, 2. Andy WHITE, 3. Connor HAMPSON, 4. James JONES, 5. Tom HANNIGAN, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Sean WILLIAMS, 9. Tom PEERS, 10. Max HARROP, 11. Owen DALE. Subs: 12. Josh HANCOCK, 14. Jordan HULME, 15. Liam GOULDING, 16. James POOLE, 20. Tony THOMPSON.

Above: Alty line up at Aggborough in September.

For Altrincham's last match, at York on 9 March, there were four changes from the September line-up against the Harriers. For the more recent game, Thompson was in goal, Hulme was the striker whilst Josh Hancock and Yusifu Ceesay wore the numbers 10 and 11 respectively.

As for the Harriers they have seen more changes of personnel since the September encounter. Off the field they have their third manager of the season in Mark Yates, who arrived in January 2019. He replaced temporary manager Colin Gordon, who had earlier replaced Neil McFarlane.

And the Kidderminster team last Saturday also shows changes, with only five of their starters in September (Hall, Austin, Horsfall, Johnson, Chambers) starting their most recent fixture, a 3-1 defeat at Brackley last Saturday. Ironside, who had been a sub in the September game started the most recent game, whilst Weeks moved from being a starter in the 2018 game to being named on the subs' bench last Saturday. He was joined by Richards and Palmer who were on bench for both games in question.

Before the match next Saturday, Kidderminster lie eighth, two places behind Altrincham but the Harriers have played two more games than the Robins and are three points behind their hosts.

Mike Garnett provides the historical record of games between the two clubs which shows that the outcomes are evenly apportioned.

• At home: P25-W11-D5-L9-F35-A31
• Away: P27-W9-D7-L11-F29-A44
• All: P52-W20-D12-L20-F64-A75

AWAY WIN FOR YOUTH TEAM

Their next game is at tenth-placed Heswall FC.

RESERVES' ANXIOUS WAIT

Pilkington's two remaining fixtures are at home:

• 06/04/19 v Egerton FC, who lie 13th out of 16.
• 20/04/19 v Congleton VR, who lie 10th.

WIN FOR LADIES

The Ladies' next game is at Mersey Valley against next to bottom club Wythenshawe Amateurs.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

But, as City squandered several second-half openings, the visitors levelled through Jay Rollins and Max Wright...

'It felt like a defeat,' he admitted. 'We said at half-time that the game’s third goal would be vital, and we actually started the second half better than we did the first... but we were so wasteful and poor in front of goal. I don’t think we really tested their keeper in open play and that’s been the case for the last three games. I’ve known a lot of them for a long time and know they are technically better than that, which is very disappointing. Newt's strike was fantastic, while Macca did well following up for his goal, but it is another game where we haven’t scored in open play.

'I counted six really good chances to score or pick the right pass in the second half and nothing came from them, while Boston probably had three opportunities and they’ve taken two, which is a damning statistic, although I don’t think we reacted quickly enough to danger for their first goal. The more the second half went on, the more frustrating it got.

'We know exactly what’s wrong and we’ve worked relentlessly for two weeks on breakaway situations and making the right decisions but, for some reason, that’s not being translated into games. With our position in the league now, we should be able to play with a bit of freedom and positivity but, whilst I can give them as much confidence as I can because I won’t come out and berate them, they have to show their ability in training on a match day.

'I know they can do it, but football is littered with people who can put the ball in the back of the net during training.'

Having seen his team struggle for attacking potency during goal-less, back-to-back displays against Scarborough and Altrincham, Watson decided to dispense with the previous 4-3-3 system and fielded Parkin and Jordan Burrow as a two-man strikeforce. On that decision, the ex-Everton defender reasoned 'I wanted to change things because we haven’t been scoring and we almost played 4-2-4, because we’ve got to win games. We also made positive substitutions. We put Wes (York) on and Alex Kempster for Adriano Moke, but nothing really came of that, so we threw everything at it, but we were not good enough with the ball.'

Veteran striker Parkin did receive praise, however, for his 63-minute contribution after being handed his first start since September 1. 'I thought he did a lot of good things,' Watson said of Parkin’s surprise outing. 'He took the free kick for the second goal and, when you get the ball into his feet, he’s a good footballer. He can play balls around the corner and put people in. He won a lot of headers as well against a formidable opponent in Cressy (Ryan Cresswell) but, as the game went on, his lack of match fitness was always going to come into play, and you run the risk of him running out of steam after an hour.

'He’s arguably the best scorer in the club, so he deserves a chance when we’re not scoring goals and I’d have liked to see an opportunity drop to Jon, because he didn’t get one, but he reminded me and everybody else that he’s still got a part to play in this season.'

In-form defender Newton also received plaudits.... 'He’s getting back to the player I remember from seeing him in the past and the one the fans here probably remember,' Watson declared. 'He’s was head and shoulders above everybody else and he is playing with confidence now, which was summed up by his goal, because you probably wouldn’t try that shot otherwise, but he hit it with pace, power and accuracy'...

Langstaff was also handed his first City start in 11 weeks after returning from a one-month loan spell at Bradford Park Avenue and, whilst he got on the scoresheet, Watson argued that he wants his ex-Gateshead forward, who has now netted six times in 29 outings for the club, to be more of a goal threat".

At Blyth Spartans "Alun Armstrong was full of praise for his side after their 3-0 win away at Ashton United...

Goals from Kieran Green, Louis Laing and Dan Maguire in the opening half hour secured the three points as Spartans rose to 12th in the Vanarama National League North. After two Saturdays without a game... 'It was important we avoided a performance like we produced last year in a similar situation against North Ferriby United, we had to ensure history was not set to repeat itself'.

Spartans' front six lacked the accustomed height of Robert Dale and Sean Reid, but still proved a threat from set-pieces, scoring twice from corners. 'Robbie has been away skiing this week and he just got back yesterday so I decided to start him on the bench, and Sean Reid is getting married shortly so he will miss a few games. I have got to be loyal to the lads who are here week in, week out and make sure they get the chances they deserve.'

A first clean sheet for 11 games brought praise... 'I thought Louis Laing was outstanding, and Michael Liddle has come back in after injury and done really well. Connor Oliver came back in today and the amount of work he got through was unbelievable, some of the lads said it was like having another Jarrett Rivers out there with the workrate he put in, he was all over the park. And Greeny has worked his nuts off to get himself into probably the best condition I have ever seen him in. If he keeps doing what he is doing he’ll get back to what he wants to be, a professional footballer...

'Every single one gave me at least eight out of ten today and that is what we need from them'".

According to the Yorkshire Evening Post "Joint-manager Marcus Bignot called on Guiseley’s players to learn some harsh lessons quickly after they fell to a fourth straight 1-0 defeat.

Hereford were the victors on this occasion, consigning the Lions to a 12th game without a win and hovering just three points above the drop zone.

'It is another loss by a single goal and the performance was not enough to win the game,' said Bignot. 'But we should have left with a point'...

New signing Lewis Archer made his debut for The Lions and linked up well with Jack Dyche early on but the hosts’ defence coped well... There were few chances in the first-half as Hereford had two shots on target through Mike Symons and Kyle Finn, both of which were easily dealt with by goalkeeper Marcus Dewhurst.

Both sides made changes just after the start of the second-half, leading to the game opening up... The home side took the lead with just over 10 minutes to go, a free-kick found an unmarked Josh Gowling, who made no mistake from just a few yards out...

Guiseley are next in action tomorrow using their game in hand as they take on 11th-placed Curzon Ashton at Nethermoor".

The Northern Echo reports that "Growing up in Jamaica, longing to one day play in England, it is unlikely Omar Holness’s dreams as a boy included realising his ambition by playing on a dreadful pitch in the second tier of non-league football. Marking the occasion by being sent off will not have ranked high among his ambitions either.

That is the scenario Holness found himself in on Saturday when in the starting XI for the first time in Darlington’s game in Warwickshire away to rock-bottom Nuneaton Borough at the sparsely populated Liberty Way stadium. He can rarely have felt further away from Kingston.

Yet Nuneaton had a man of their own sent off too on a day in which their relegation came closer to reality and Darlington took a significant step closer safety, now on 40 points, ten above the bottom three, after a low-quality but crucial 2-1 win.

'We knew it wasn’t going to be a classic when we turned up and saw the pitch,' admitted manager Tommy Wright. His team have seven games to play, and he added, 'We’ve put ourselves in this, we’ve only got ourselves to blame, we’re not blaming anyone else, it’s our own fault and now we have to get out of it. Whether that win today is enough, probably not.'

A win on Wednesday at home to Chester would allow everyone of a Quaker persuasion to breathe more easily. Holness no doubt felt relieved that his dismissal for two bookable offences did not spoil his or Darlington’s day... Henshall’s cross was headed in by Stephen Thompson to give Quakers a 13th minute lead, one they relinquished after a spell of Nuneaton pressure culminated in Miles Addison heading home just before the half-hour mark from a corner that Darlington disputed.

Holness, booked for his protestations, later admitted, ' I definitely have to work on managing my emotions during the game. The referee said it was dissent. I simply went over and shouted at him, telling him it was the wrong decision and I definitely believe that it was the wrong decision.'

Jordan Nicholson, one of four former Nuneaton players in Darlington’s team, took his goal tally for the season to ten when he got the winner, scoring an uncharacteristic back-post header. It came early in the second half, meeting a pinpoint cross by Thompson, who later put Nicholson in on goal before he was dragged down by Devon Kelly Evans.

Referee Scott Simpson dismissed the Nuneaton offender, but then infuriated Darlington by ruling out Thompson’s terrific goal from the resulting free-kick, halting play just as Quakers’ man of the match struck the ball.

'I don’t know why the game has to stop for a Nuneaton player changing his boots,' said Wright. 'The referee blew his whistle, Thommo took the kick and as the ball has gone into the top corner he blows the whistle again'...

Soon after Nuneaton’s 63rd minute red, Holness was dismissed too, a rash challenge on Rhys Sharpe giving Simpson an easy opportunity to make it ten versus ten. 'Once you’re on a yellow you’ve got to tread carefully and got to pull out of tackles,' admitted Wright'...

Nuneaton had sprung a surprise on the eve of the game by signing former Darlington misfit James Caton, released by Wright in January... yet, much like most of his 18 months with Darlington ,the forward made little impact. Almost unrecognisable without his bleach-blonde hair and trademark gloves, a noticeably bulked-up Caton’s most notable moment came when trying to take the ball past Simon Ainge and succeeded only in falling over and seeing the ball trickle out of play...

This was a contest between teams positioned 17th and 22nd in the table and it showed, loose passes littering play on a surface that made the game a challenge to both play and watch".

On Lincolnshire Live "Craig Elliott praised his Boston United players after watching the Pilgrims come back from a two-goal deficit to share the spoils against York City on Saturday. Second half goals from Jay Rollins and Max Wright ensured the Pilgrims left Bootham Crescent with a 2-2 draw, having trailed to first half efforts from Sean Newton and Macaulay Langstaff.

United now have 28 points to their credit on their travels and have emerged unbeaten from away fixtures against full-time outfits Kidderminster Harriers, Southport and York in the early weeks of 2019.

'It adds to the record we have got and we can be proud of our away record this season,' reflected Elliott. 'It’s another difficult place to come and it looks an even better point when you are 2-0 down. That’s when you realise how difficult this league is. There are some big teams with big budgets, full-time outfits, with big crowds. It’s a credit to the players. We deserved something out of the game.'

'There was not much in the game and no real clear-cut chances,' added Elliott. 'The first goal was fantastic, a good free-kick, and you have to accept that. I think George has got to do better for the second goal by pushing it out for a corner or save it better than he did. I was disappointed with that.'

United’s comeback got going on the hour mark when Rollins turned home Nicky Walker’s ball across the box and the Pilgrims sealed a point when Grimsby Town loanee Wright curled an exquisite effort past Adam Bartlett from 20 yards.. The Pilgrims held on to move within five points of the play-off positions, albeit with seventh-placed AFC Telford United having two games in hand".

FC United’s "hopes of survival took another blow as they went down 3-1 to near neighbours Curzon Ashton on Saturday afternoon, with Harry Winter being shown a red card in the second half.

With Guiseley also losing it means the gap between FC and the Yorkshire side is still three points but FC are quickly running out of games to close that gap. The afternoon had started well with Kurt Willoughby taking advantage of a defensive error and slotting home from just outside the six-yard box, but an afternoon that had begun so promising[ly] soon started to unravel.

With little over five minutes left of the first half some poor marking from FC from a corner allowed Sean Miller to head home and level the score... The signs were promising going into the second half, with FC finishing the first off well and showing the fight that would be needed for a pivotal second half. But just minutes into the second half the home team had the lead and it was again from poor marking from a corner. This time Jonathon Hunt was the benefactor, heading his side in front.

The early blow seemed to take the wind out of the sails for FC and they really struggled to get anything going in the second period... With just over 20 minutes left, Harry Winter was shown a red card for an altercation with Curzon’s Daniel Shaw. Despite both players raising their hands to each other, it was Winter who was sent off, whereas Shaw was just given a booking for his part in the fracas.

As FC pushed a higher defensive line, looking to take the game into the opposition half, it left them vulnerable to the counter attack and it was such a counter that saw Curzon grab the third and with it any hopes of the Reds getting anything from the game. Miller took the ball on the half way line and went on a solo run, rounding Fisher and neatly putting the ball away to seal a miserable afternoon for FC.

The players and management will know that the performance simply wasn’t good enough and for a team fighting for their survival in the league you’d want to see a bit more passion on the pitch. That being said it was FC’s first defeat in five games and with a rearranged game at Broadhurst Park on Tuesday they have an immediate opportunity to bounce straight back.

Website man of the match: Chris Lynch. Was flat out on his feet by the end of the game, having given so much, showing the desire that’s going to be needed in the final games to pull off an amazing recovery".

Bradford's Telegraph & Argus informs us/A> that "A 90th-minute equaliser denied Bradford (Park Avenue) victory at Southport as the hosts came back from 2-0 down. The score had also finished 2-2 when the sides met at Horsfall before Christmas.

And while Avenue stretched their current unbeaten run to seven games, the edge was taken away from a good point at Liam Watson’s Sandgrounders by the feeling of what might have been. Mark Bower’s men remain fourth and are still on the same points as third-placed Spennymoor Town, who were held to a 1-1 home draw by Alfreton Town.

Brackley Town crept up to within one point as the Saints, who are fifth, won 3-1 at home against Kidderminster Harriers.

Jake Beesley netted a brace at the Merseyrail Community Stadium but he could have had five goals on the day as he proved to be difficult for the Port defence to handle... He netted a close-range header. He was on target again just after the half-hour mark when he was picked out by a long clearance from keeper Charlie Andrew.

He controlled the ball and again rounded Hanford before steering a shot into the unguarded net...

It was a game of two halves as the home side came out fired up after the interval and forced Andrew into action. He made a good save to deny Dion Charles early in the second half but was powerless to prevent an excellent shot from Jordan Archer cutting the deficit... It was a Port substitute who got the last-gasp equaliser. A long throw in from Regan Ogle in the 90th minute floated over Andrew’s clenched fist before dropping to Jason Gilchrist. His first effort hit the bar but in the ensuing scramble he was able to turn the ball over the line."

CHESHIRE NEWS

• Northwich Victoria 1-1 Chertsey Town (Att: 1288)

Saturday 30 March 2019 2nd Leg:

• Chertsey Town v Northwich Victoria

The opponents in the final are the subject of a report from London News Online which says that "Cray Valley PM have reached the FA Vase final at Wembley, with former Dulwich Hamlet striker Gavin Tomlin netting a vital goal in today’s 1-1 draw semi-final second leg at Canterbury City. The Millers had a 1-0 lead from the first leg. Tomlin had put Cray Valley into a 2-0 lead on aggregate only for City to net late on and make it a nervy finish".

NORTHERN NEWS

The NPL had to await formal notification of the liquidation before it could confirm its position... The Premier Division league table will be updated to reflect the changes as soon as possible

In terms of the impact on relegation, North Ferriby United will remain as the bottom club in the table. Two further teams, placed 20th and 21st, will also be automatically relegated to step 4." As of March 23 those two teams are Workington and Mickleover Sports.

NEXT OPPONENTS CLASH

Kidderminster Harriers reported that "Harriers were dealt a punishing 3-1 defeat at Brackley. Harriers were behind early as James Armson struck, but were level at the break thanks to a Joe Ironside penalty.

Ironside had a good chance to put Harriers ahead after the break, but it was the hosts who added two further goals, an Ndlovu header and a Byrne penalty, to clinch the victory.

Up against a Saints side looking to avoid the play-off eliminators, Harriers found themselves on the back-foot from the off... While defending at one end, Harriers had to make the best of a few scraps up at the other... before, on 37, Harriers got themselves level. After being fouled in the area, Ironside dusted himself down to finish from the spot, in off the post.

That enabled Harriers to finish the first half and begin the second with a little more impetus, but found themselves disrupted soon enough after Sam Austin was forced off through injury, with the Reds already missing Billy Daniels, Ed Williams and Milan Butterfield on this day...

[After 70 minutes] Brackley were back in front. Ndlovu looked to be offside as he turned the ball home on the line from a corner, but visiting protests fell on deaf ears. A tall order at 2-1 became worse soon after as Brackley netted a third. Byrne, minutes after hitting the post with a header, confidently dispatched a penalty after Liam McAlinden had fouled Fairlamb inside the area.

There was more than 10 minutes to play at that stage but, in truth, neither side really looked like adding to the score; the home side more than happy to see out yet another victory to continue their fantastic own form, while Harriers are left looking for favours from elsewhere to make their play-off dream a reality".

CSC FINAL AT MOSS LANE

SATURDAY GATES

• Ashton United 0 3 Blyth Spartans Att.215
• Brackley Town 3 1 Kidderminster Harriers Att.845
• Chorley 3 0 Leamington Att.1507
• Curzon Ashton 3 1 FC United of Manchester Att.1075
• Hereford 1 0 Guiseley Att.2261
• Nuneaton Borough 1 2 Darlington Att.620
• Southport 2 2 Bradford (Park Avenue) Att.949
• Spennymoor Town 1 1 Alfreton Town Att.1083
• York City 2 2 Boston United Att.2594

BUILDBASE FA TROPHY

Leyton Orient and AFC Fylde will come together under the Arch on May 19 for the showpiece season finale... Orient secured their place with a gutsy 2-1 victory at AFC Telford.

They survived a scare after Matt Harrold was sent off after 26 minutes, that after he put Justin Edinburgh’s team into the lead early on.

The Bucks, who were a goal down going into the second leg, drew themselves level through Ellis Deeney but Orient made it safe.

They will make the short trip across London in two months’ time thanks to Josh Coulson’s winner on the day making it 3-1 on aggregate.

They face Fylde who won through after a thrilling 3-2 victory at Stockport County.

Alex Reid booked their place in the final with a minute to go after they finally broke the resistance of the National League North title chasers.

Danny Rowe’s penalty made it 1-1 before Ryan Croasdale turned the tie around.

County drew level through Ash Palmer in the 87th minute but their heart was broken by Reid seconds later."

The Shropshire Star reports on the Bucks' defeat.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Elsewhere the IrnBru Scottish Challenge Cup final at Inverness saw Welsh club Connah's Quay Nomads beaten by Ross County. CQN featured former Alty striker Andy Owens as their striker and former Alty trialist Michael Bakare also played for the Welsh team.

Welsh Premier adds that "Three goals in the final fifteen minutes saw Ross County beat Connah's Quay Nomads 3-1 to lift the IRN-BRU Cup at the Caledonian Stadium in Inverness. Nomads took a first half lead through Michael Bakare, and should have been further in front at the break, but had to withstand copious County pressure in the second half until the breakthrough was made.

The game got off to an even start in the first twenty minutes. County looked dangerous with their build up play, the Nomads relying a lot on the long ball and Andy Owens’ long throws to target the Staggies’ defence.

The visitors grew in confidence though after fifteen or so, and it was a long ball that saw the breakthrough, County failing to deal with a John Danby knock, and it fell to Michael Bakare who took it to the edge of the box and rifled one into the top corner"

In the EvoStik League, Andrai Jones netted for Stafford Rangers as they drew with Warrington Town.

In the FA Trophy, Nyal Bell scored Stockport's first goal as they exited the competition at the semi-final stage.

The EvoStik League tells us that Ryan Crowther's registration with Glossop NE has been transferred to Hyde United.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The Pilgrims trailed 2-0 at half-time courtesy of Sean Newton's stunning long-range free-kick and Macaulay Langstaff's close-range finish.

Jay Rollins reduced the arrears on the hour mark and Wright rescued a point with 12 minutes to play with a fine curling effort from 20 yards."

At York City, the home side "squandered a two goal lead and allowed Boston United a share of the spoils at Bootham Crescent. First half goals from Sean Newton and Macaulay Langstaff had put City firmly in command with 30 minutes to play but striker Jay Rollins reduced the deficit and Max Wright equalised in the 78th minute.

Manager Steve Watson had made two changes to the side that lost to Altrincham a fortnight ago; strikers Langstaff and Jon Parkin replacing Alex Kempster and and Wes York.

City also switched formation as Watson employed an attacking 4-2-4 line-up that saw Scott Burgess and Patrick McLaughlin operating in the centre of the park. After a closely contested first 24 minutes, City took the lead courtesy of a sensational Newton freekick. Former City midfielder Nicky Wroe fouled Parkin 25 yards out and Newton curled an unstoppable shot over the wall and in off the crossbar.

It was another freekick that led to City doubling their advantage in the 38th minute, after Parkin had been fouled by former City trialist Ryan Cresswell. Parkin's low shot was only half saved by goalkeeper Willis and Langstaff tucked home the loose ball...

Boston then began to get a foothold in the contest and pushed City back... Rollins reduced the deficit by scoring from close-range on the hour mark after Nicky Walker beat David Mirfin to a loose ball in the box and turned the ball goalwards. Wright then levelled for Boston in the 78th minute, curling the ball past Bartlett with neat shot on the turn from the edge of the box.

City reverted to a 4-3-3 for the final 30 minutes and should have regained the lead with seven minutes to play... but substitute Wes York could only hit [a] loose ball wide from inside the six yard box".

At Chorley "The game took a while to warm up as both sides struggled to create any openings. Chorley built a bit of pressure against a well-drilled Leamington side, which allowed Adam Blakeman to eek out a chance that flew just over the bar. Marcus Carver and Elliot Newby also had half-openings, but the visitors stood firm.

That was until centre back Jamie Hood stood on the ball while trying to shepherd the ball out for a goal kick, allowing Carver to steal in and finish with confidence to give The Magpies a deserved lead... The second half saw limited action until the final 20 minutes... The Brakes' number one could do nothing with Carver’s lob as the forward bagged his 15th of the season following Wilson’s flick-on...

There was still time for sub Adam McGurk to force Breeden into a stunning stop to keep the score respectable, before fellow sub Louis Almond fired the third goal, cutting inside before finishing low beyond the ‘keeper".

Opponents, Leamington added that "We knew that we wouldn’t have Junior English today but to lose Connor Gudger this morning was a blow as it didn’t allow us to set up as we would have liked to. If you analyse the game before the second goal, the period before that from sixty to seventy we got around the back a bit and enjoyed more of the ball, but we didn’t work the keeper enough or get enough shots off.

In that period though, while it was still 1-0, you start to think we could nick something here but, sadly, the second goal, like the first one, will be one that you look back and be disappointed with. The first goal is a slip, the second just a big clearance, and we haven’t dealt with them well, but I think the good period we had in the game rattled them a little bit, which happens when you are chasing titles and there is pressure on you, but we didn’t take advantage and they did what good sides do and put us to bed then, but to be fair if you take the last few minutes out of the game when we were ragged and lost our shape a bit, we were well in the game for long periods...

The bottom line is that we are in a better position at 5 o’clock tonight than we were at three. It’s another game ticked off and we’ve still got that cushion. We’ve had a good couple of weeks but I think today was a little bit too much for us but we’ll regroup and the squad will be stronger next week with one or two back".

From Darlington we learn that "Quakers collected three valuable points at Nuneaton to go ten points clear of the relegation zone. The pitch was very bobbly and didn't lend itself at all to good football, so it was maybe no surprise that all the goals in the game came from headers. At least, though, Quakers prevailed for their first win ever over Nuneaton...

Quakers took the lead on 13 minutes. Omar Holness played a great 50 yard ball out to the right for Alex Henshall to cut inside and deliver a perfect cross to the far post for Stephen Thompson to head home his 92nd goal for the club...

Nuneaton scored from [a] corner that was floated into the near post for Miles Addison to head past Turner on 28 minutes...

Quakers went back in front on 48 minutes. Trotman found Thompson, who cut in from the right, and chipped the ball with his left foot to the far post, where Jordan Nicholson headed in his tenth goal of the season.

Nuneaton were reduced to ten men on 63 minutes when Nicholson raced on to a Thompson pass, and was pulled back by Kelly-Evans as he burst through, and the referee produced an immediate red card. The ref blew his whistle for the free kick, Thompson curled the ball into the top corner, but the ref stopped play with his whistle again because of a hold up.

But Quakers were reduced to ten men on 69 minutes when Holness, who was shown a yellow in the first half, was shown a second yellow for a foul. After that, Quakers were content to kill the game at every opportunity, and stifle Nuneaton in midfield".

According to Hereford FC "It wasn't pretty but The Bulls stuck to their task well to secure a hard-earned three points against stubborn opposition in Guiseley as Josh Gowling’s goal proved to be the difference...

. The half ended with three corners in quick succession for the visitors... In fairness there was not a great deal of quality during the opening period [of the second half], but it was The Bulls who enjoyed the majority of possession and created what few opportunities there were...

We finally managed to get our noses in front with just over ten minutes to go when a free-kick from Danny Greenslade found Gowling in front of goal and he was able to bundle the ball home from close range to make it 1-0".

Down at the bottom, Nuneaton Town, before Saturday's defeat, told us that "Nuneaton Borough have confirmed the signings of midfielder Bekir Halil and forward Dimitri Dunkley. The pair will know some familiar faces in the dressing room as they both featured for Romulus alongside Ty Belford and Taylor Allen under Dale Belford earlier this season. Both signed in time to face Darlington this afternoon."

Also "Nuneaton Borough have confirmed the signing of forward James Caton, he will likely make his debut today against his former club Darlington. Caton was born in Widnes... Joining Bolton Wanderers as a nine-year-old schoolboy, he was a part of the England U16s' setup that won the Victory shield, turning professional with Bolton in 2010. After his release by Bolton, James featured in Football League matches for Blackpool, Accrington Stanley and Shrewsbury Town. Caton has also had spells in the National League with Wrexham, Lincoln City, Southport and Dover Athletic."

Up at Spennymoor Town "A second half penalty from Jordan Sinnott cancelled out Glen Taylor’s 28th goal of the season as Moors’ winless run stretched to five games. A dominant spell of pressure from the visitors paid off when Stephen Brogan brought down Thomas Platt with fifteen minutes to go, allowing Sinnott to earn the in-form Alfreton a worthy point.

Taylor’s effort from 20 yards in the first half had given Spennymoor a deserved advantage, but they were unable to build on that promising spell.

Jason Ainsley brought in Jack Diamond and Lewis Hawkins after the pair signed on loan on Friday, and also opted to replace Callum Williams with Jake Hibbs at right-back. Shane Henry, who started on the bench against Bradford (Park Avenue), came in for the injured Mark Anderson, while Rob Ramshaw missed out through suspension...

It was Moors who would soon be ahead as Taylor showed his class and quality yet again this season. The striker stuck a sweet shot from distance which found its way into the bottom corner via the hand of Sam Ramsbottom...

Ryan Hall missed a big chance to effectively end Alfreton’s afternoon when his shot from a tight angle was smothered by Ramsbottom, allowing The Reds to come back into the game in a one-sided second period...

After Thomas Platt’s run was halted by the challenge of Brogan, referee Andrew Kitchen allowed Sinnott the chance to equalise, and it was an offer the striker[?] took with an assured spot-kick".

The EvoStik League reports that Connor Hughes has moved from Curzon Ashton FC to Atherton Collieries on a short-term loan as has Lloyd Allinson from FC United of Manchester to Nantwich Town.

Also, Ionut Anghel has moved from Ashton United to Kendal Town on a youth loan as has Lewis Doyle from Southport to Witton Albion.

ENFORCED REST FOR ALTY

Alty's next game is on Saturday, 30 March when the Robins entertain Kidderminster Harriers, looking to redress a 3-2 defeat at Aggborough earlier in the season.

Above: James Jones receives a bear-hug, but no penalty, in the September 2018 game at Kidderminster.

With the Brackley game recently rearranged (see below), Altrincham's final eight games will now be played in a four-week spell. Following the game with Kidderminster, Alty have two successive away trips to in-form opponents. The first trip is to Alfreton Town (Saturday, 6 April), followed by a midweek visit to AFC Telford United (Tuesday, 9 April).

A brace of home games follows those two journeys as promotion candidates Chorley (Saturday 13 April) and then Brackley Town visit the J. Davidson Stadium (Tuesday, 16 April).

The final three fixtures are against Nuneaton Borough, at Liberty Way (Saturday 20 April), followed by Easter Monday's final home fixture when Hereford FC are the guests. The season concludes on Saturday, 27 April with a trip to Hurst Cross to play Ashton United.

SATURDAY FIXTURES

• Ashton United 0-3 Blyth Spartans
• Brackley Town 3-1 Kidderminster Harriers
• Chorley 3-0 Leamington
• Curzon Ashton 3-1 FC United of Manchester
• Hereford FC 1-0 Guiseley
• Nuneaton Borough 1-2 Darlington
• Southport 2-2 Bradford (Park Avenue)
• Spennymoor Town 1-1 Alfreton Town
• York City 2-2 Boston United

BUILDBASE FA TROPHY

• AFC Telford Utd 1-2 Leyton Orient (1-3 on agg.)
• Stockport County 2-3 AFC Fylde (2-3 on agg.)

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Jason Ainsley admitted Spennymoor Town might not be in a title race anymore following their recent ‘blip’. A win against Alfreton Town would be the perfect way to reaffirm their play-off credentials.

Breathing down the Moors’ necks are Bradford (Park Avenue) who could creep into third if they take the spoils from their trip to Southport. Kidderminster Harriers head to Brackley Town knowing a point would be enough to see them back in the top seven.

Leaders Chorley are going for three in a row and could extend their lead to seven points in the process against Leamington.

Ashton United have failed to find the net in each of their last three games and desperately need points; Blyth Spartans are in town looking to pile on the misery.

After a long break, FC United of Manchester will be hoping to pick up where they left off last time out. The Rebels secured a huge win over AFC Telford a fortnight ago and head to Curzon Ashton with a positive feel about their survival hopes.

Guiseley will have an eye on proceedings at the Nash as they look to rein in Hereford. Could one of Boston or York be a dark horse for the play-offs? One thing is for certain, defeat for either side would be a body blow to their chances. Elsewhere, Darlington head to Nuneaton Borough looking for only their second win of the year.

The Boston Standard reports that "Former Football League defender Ryan Cresswell has joined Boston United, with Spencer Harris departing the Jakemans Stadium.

Thirty-one-year-old Cresswell has previously played for Northampton Town, Macclesfield, Bury, Southend United, Rotherham United and Fleetwood Town during his career, which began at Sheffield United. He began the season at Eastleigh...

Meanwhile, summer signing Harris has had his contract terminated by mutual consent. The midfielder-turned-defender made 20 starts and eight appearances off the bench for United."

Darlington announce that they "travel to Nuneaton on Saturday looking to end our five game winless run and also break our duck against Nuneaton.

In our five meetings with Nuneaton since we won promotion to the National North we have yet to win. Since we fell to a 4-2 defeat at Hereford two weeks ago three new players have joined the squad, Omar Holness, Kit Elliott and Ben Jackson who will all be available for the game.

Bottom of the table Nuneaton Borough had positive news off the field this week with a consortium ready to step in to try and save the club.

On the field though it appears just a matter of time till relegation from the National North is confirmed. They sit 17 points off safety with just 24 points to play for. They have failed to win in their last fourteen league games picking up just two points in the process. Nuneaton's last victory, [was] a 2-1 success at Blackwell Meadows in December."

Nuneaton Borough report that "This weekend sees Nuneaton return to football action after last Saturday’s clash at Blyth Spartans was postponed due to weather. Darlington’s home clash with Chester was also postponed, meaning The Quakers are without a game since 9th March, when they let a 2-0 lead slip away at Hereford...

Darlington are without a win since 9th February, when they took all three points away from Blyth Spartans, thanks to a Steve Thompson penalty after 34th minute. It will be a return for former Nuneaton boss Tommy Wright on Saturday, as he brings his side to Liberty Way."

According to the Northern Echo "Lewis Hawkins has moved to Spennymoor on loan until the end of the season. The Hartlepool United midfielder is back at the Brewery Field for the second time after a loan stint in the 2015/16 season.

And Moors have also landed Sunderland attacker Jack Diamond, who has made three first-team appearances this season in the Checkatrade Trophy, while regularly featuring for the club’s Under-23s.

Hawkins was at York, under then boss Sam Collins, for a part of this season before being recalled by Pools in December. But he has made only three substitute appearances since starting the Boxing Day defeat at Gateshead. Hawkins is likely to start for Moors against Alfreton on Saturday.

Moors’ chief Jason Ainsley said 'Lewis is a player I had the pleasure of working with when he came to Spennymoor in the Evo-Stik on loan, and he did extremely well for us. I have followed his career closely and kept in contact with him, and I am delighted that Craig Hignett has allowed Lewis to come to us for a month, especially when we have two midfielders out.'

He added 'Jack is someone we have been keeping an eye on for a number of weeks. His form for Sunderland’s Under-23s has been excellent and, with eight games to go, we needed to freshen things up'".

In the Shropshire Star "Boss Gavin Cowan hopes tomorrow goes down as a special day where AFC Telford United ‘achieved the unachievable’ at a raucous New Buck's Head. The Bucks are welcoming Leyton Orient for the second leg of the FA Trophy semi-final... Telford are 1-0 down after the first leg... and a sell-out is expected as they aim to overturn that deficit.

'We really wanted the community to come out and back us, and they have done just that,' said an excited Cowan... 'It is going to be great to see the New Buck's Head packed out with supporters and, if we achieve the unachievable, they’ll be able to proudly say "I was there when Telford made it to Wembley". That’s what we want. It’s a celebration, isn’t it? A celebration of what we have managed to achieve so far in the competition and in the league. It has been special already, but come down and celebrate with us, will us on, as we look to achieve the unachievable'..

Cowan said 'Orient pretty much controlled the game at one point. The pitch was massive and they played the ball around really well. We lacked that control, and they were getting a bit of joy, but I didn’t want to force the issue too much. The key was staying in the game, which we did'".

We learn from Southport that "Midfielder Lewis Doyle has joined Witton Albion on loan until the end of the season. Lewis recently started for Southport in the Liverpool Senior Cup Semi-Final at Rylands putting in a very impressive display and more game time will aid his development. He has also been on loan at Droylsden this season."

York Press informs us that "Out-of-contract York City stalwart Dan Parslow has been ruled out for the rest of the season. The 33-year-old defender has still not recovered from the concussion he suffered more than six weeks ago during the 2-1 home defeat to Hereford and has been told he can play no part in the Minstermen’s final eight games of the campaign.

Parslow is still suffering from headaches if he watches TV for longer than an hour and can only manage short journeys in his car. The former Wales under-21 international has played 383 times for City, positioning him tenth on the club’s all-time appearances list, seven behind ninth-placed Phil Burrows... City chief Steve Watson has stressed that he will be welcomed back for pre-season training in the summer.

Parslow’s injury came during his first start for Watson and represented a second difficult setback this term after, having been overlooked for National League North selection since the start of the campaign, he picked up a knee problem just as former manager Sam Collins was going to include him in his starting line-up back in November.

On his latest blow, the two-time Press Player of the Year said, 'I’m still showing some signs of concussion, so I saw a specialist in Birmingham and it was decided that the stresses and potential for contact would represent too much of a risk to get back playing this season and that I just need to concentrate on getting healthy. That’s tough to swallow because I’m desperate to prove my worth, but it can’t be helped, and sums up my season really.

'It’s not come at a nice time, because there’s a lot of uncertainty for footballers at this time of the year and I’m sure the manager will be having a lot of conversations soon, but I just need to get fit and healthy and then move forward with whatever I’ll be doing next season.'

Parslow admitted that he didn’t expect to be sidelined for three months by the injury, explaining 'When it happened, the physio came on and asked me numerous questions and I was quite responsive so, at first, we thought I was OK, but I deteriorated very quickly and, when I was walking down the tunnel at half-time, I couldn’t stand up. I was disorientated and felt really sick. Initially, we thought it would take a week or two, but I’ve had really bad headaches and trouble with my vision and I’m still suffering. I couldn’t get out of a dark room for the first three weeks and I still can’t drive for longer than half-an-hour or watch TV for longer than an hour without the symptoms coming back'...

Watson, meanwhile, confessed... 'Taking football out of the equation, it’s been a terrible worry for Dan and his family,' the City boss declared... 'If he can’t be competitive until pre-season, then I’m happy for him to come in and see where we are from there, but I do have a plan and list of targets that I want to look at for next season. I know what I feel I need to get promoted but, if I get everybody I want, the door would still be open for him to train with us and get fit again.'"

A report from the Chester Standard tells us that "Chester joint-manager Anthony Johnson feels that ‘unprecedented disruptions’ have hindered his side’s progress this season. Bad weather forced the postponement of last weekend’s clash at National League North rivals Darlington and left the Blues without a league fixture for the 11th time in the 2018/19 campaign.

Water damage at Chester’s Swansway Stadium earlier in the season forced the postponement of three home matches, while other league games have clashed with cup fixtures and subsequently rescheduled. An extensive injury list has also threatened to derail Chester’s play-off bid at times, with Johnson left to lament the club’s run of bad luck.

'Some of the supporters joke about there being a curse on the club, but it has felt like that at times this season,' said Johnson, who will take his side to Darlington for the re-arranged game next Wednesday. 'Disruptions are part and parcel of football and you have to adapt to circumstances, but what we’ve experienced has felt unprecedented... I’ve never known anything like it... When you find yourselves affected by 11 postponements in a season it’s just scandalous really. It’s effectively a quarter of the season that’s been affected.

'Obviously we’ve been knocked out of the cup competitions and then found ourselves without a game sometimes. That’s of our own making, but the rest of it has been beyond our control. It’s been such a stop-start season.'"

BRACKLEY DATE

JOSH'S NEW TARGET

Alty's bid to further strengthen their case for a play-off place was put on hold last Saturday when torrential rain forced the postponement of their game with promotion rivals Brackley. But they will go into their next game, against Kidderminster Harriers at The J.Davidson Stadium a week on Saturday, full of confidence after scoring 12 goals and conceding only one in a four-match unbeaten run that has yielded 10 points...

Hancock said, "I just hope we can keep the run going and get in the play-offs. That's the target, and fingers crossed we will do it. I would agree completely we are as good as anyone when we hit peak form. In fact, I'd say when we are on it, we are the best team in the league. Only Stockport have been difficult to beat for us, the way they sit back and play on the counter.

"If we reach the play-offs, there could be three extra games. We've got to be ready for that, so it's important we keep it up and stay in shape."

Hancock "took his goals tally to 15 with a brilliant winner at York City... 'that was the target I set myself at the start of the year, so to have 15 in the league and 16 overall is great,' he said. 'Now I want four more to reach 20 league goals; that's the next target. I had a year at Telford in the Conference, but was in and out of the side, so this is the first time I have played week-in, week-out at this level, and I'm really enjoying it. The team are playing good football, and I'd like to stay as long as I can."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Chorley currently lead the way from the chasing pack by four points but... The Magpies will have to do it the hard way if they want to lift the silverware at the end of the season. Jamie Vermiglio’s side face all but one of the current top seven sides including Spennymoor Town, Bradford (Park Avenue), Chester and AFC Telford United. After kicking off their run-in against Leamington, the current leaders face an unenviable trip to Altrincham whilst also entertaining Stockport County on their home turf...

Stockport County... have arguably the easier [sic] run in of the three sides vying for the title looking at the current league table. Jim Gannon’s side face six sides in the bottom half of the table including Ashton United, Darlington, Hereford and Curzon Ashton before a trip to basement boys Nuneaton Borough on the final day. It might not all be plain sailing, however. They face a tough away trip to Chester before they collide with fellow title rivals Chorley at Victory Park...

Spennymoor Town’s supporters may well have a huge job to boost their heroes to glory; the Moors play five of their final eight games at Brewery Field. Jason Ainsley’s men face Alfreton Town, Hereford, Guiseley, Brackley Town and Chorley at home which could make all the difference. Trips to York City and Curzon Ashton on the final day could prove tricky. But it could be Ashton United, fighting for their lives at the foot of the table, who could upset the odds on March 21".

Hereford FC report that "The weather was the winner again last weekend as our trip to Alfreton Town was postponed and so, after an enforced break, we return to action for the first time in a fortnight this weekend with the visit of Guiseley to Edgar Street.

We go into the game on the back of just one defeat from our last nine matches, of which we are unbeaten in our last five outings, including a 4-2 victory over Darlington the last time we were in action.

On that occasion, Lance Smith marked his long-awaited return to action with a goal, whilst Kyle Finn proved to be a game-changing second half substitute and he will be pushing for a place in the starting line-up this time around.

Recent loan arrival, Jak Hickman, stands by to make his debut having arrived for an initial month from Coventry City. The talented right-back will provide cover for the suspended Keiran Thomas, whilst Jimmy Oates has been recalled from his loan spell by Exeter City.

On-loan front-man, James Waite, is available again following suspension as we take on a Guiseley outfit that sit in 19th place in the table with 33 points from their 33 League games. They are three points off the drop zone having played a game fewer than those three clubs below them and six points adrift of The Bulls. Recent form has been poor with defeats in each of their last three matches amidst a run of 12 games without a win. The last time they tasted victory came on New Year’s Day when they chalked up a 2-1 triumph at Bradford (Park Avenue)".

Also from Hereford FC we learn that the club "has this week received a formal warning from the Football Association following incidents at the recent away game against FC United of Manchester. The warning relates to one incident which saw an individual encroach onto the playing area, and another that saw a smoke bomb thrown onto the pitch.

The letter from the FA containing the warning notice specifically states that disciplinary action against the club may be considered ‘if further reports of spectator misconduct should be received and The Association reserves the right to refer to the current matter in such circumstances’.

Andrew Graham, the club’s nominated ‘Respect’ Director, said... 'We are extremely disappointed that the behaviour of a tiny minority from our magnificent support has brought this black mark against our club’s name'".

Meanwhile, the Telegraph & Argus says that "Beating the teams around them is vital for Guiseley to boost their survival chances, starting with this weekend's clash at Hereford, according to joint-manager Marcus Bignot.

Guiseley have not played since losing 1-0 to Southport on March 2 due to the wet weather. This means they now face three games in seven days, starting with Saturday's trip to Edgar Street. Hereford are six points and two places above Guiseley in the table.

Bignot said his side's league position could alter dramatically if they take a strong tally of points from their next three games... 'It's a case of if we get a good amount of points over the next few games then it's in our own hands. In many ways you've always got to take points from the teams in and around you. Then it keeps those teams in and around you. But we have just got to focus on us. We know what we are in and we know it's not going to be easy, but I am pleased with the direction we are going.

'It's a mini-league for us. We are right at the business end now. Everyone starts to do the maths. We come up against a very good Hereford team on Saturday. This is a game we can't afford to waste. It is of the upmost importance that we get the points'...

Bignot added... 'The break has been frustrating, but we are able to get much-needed training into them. One or two have been able to come back from injury'...

Tickets for Guiseley's West Riding County Cup final tie with Ossett United will be on sale in the club shop...

Meanwhile, [ex-Alty loanee] Josh Langley’s loan at Guiseley has been extended again. The 26-year-old centre-back has signed a loan agreement until the end of season from Southport. Langley has played in six games so far and made in his debut away at Chester in January."

It is reported by the National League that "Chester FC Community Trust has unveiled its vision for a new £1.6 million community sports hub in the city. The charitable arm of Chester FC is collaborating with Cheshire West & Chester Council on plans to develop King George V playing fields in Blacon.

Subject to planning, the scheme will include a new full size floodlit 3G pitch, improvement of the existing grass pitches, a new clubhouse with changing rooms and community facilities, refurbishment of the existing p[avilion to include an education suite and additional car parking and access to the site.

The sports hub will provide much needed facilities for grassroots clubs and leagues, as well as delivering wider community benefits... The council is investing in the project as part of its £2 million commitment to improve football facilities across the borough...

Businessman Stuart Murphy has agreed to donate £200,000 to the scheme and the Community Trust now aims to raise £300,000 through public donations, fundraising events and working with local businesses to bring the plans to fruition".

According to the Boston Standard "Craig Elliott,/A> is determined to get Boston United’s top performers signed up for next season after seeing last year’s ‘best players’ slip through his fingers. Leading scorer [and ex -Alty loanee] Ashley Hemmings and skipper Jordan Keane both moved on in the summer, while Reece Thompson returned to parent club Guiseley.

Kabongo Tshimanga, who netted his 30th goal of the campaign for Oxford City last week, was also allowed to leave the club.

'I think the one mistake we did make as a manager and as a club, we didn’t keep our best players from last year,' Elliott told The Standard, pledging to learn from the error. 'I felt that at the end of last year we created a very good team... If we could have tied things up with six-seven weeks to go I think it might have been a different story because we were flying, the lads were playing well and they would want to stay.'

Elliott already has George Willis, Nicky Wroe, Brad Abbott, Andi Thanoj and Jay Rollins tied up for next term, while Dylan Parkin can also be retained due to being under 23. Elliott slammed his side following their 2-0 home defeat to Chorley on Saturday, describing them as ‘not good enough for the play-offs’..

He added, 'I keep saying we need to learn from the mistakes we’ve made as a club and as a manager. (I want to keep) the ones I think will benefit us next year. It’s hard, I’m still looking to see if some are good enough'".

York Press reports that "York City boss Steve Watson has ruled out the likelihood of adding any new players before today’s transfer deadline. The Minstermen will consequently end the campaign with the current group of players and Jake Wright is expected to return from his loan spell at this weekend’s visitors Boston United following the end of his one-month move.

Watson had considered bolstering his attacking options for the final eight games of the season, but revealed 'I don’t think anything will happen. We waited as long as we could for the right one to come up, but Macaulay Langstaff has come back looking really sharp and he would have started at FC United of Manchester on Saturday if the game hadn’t been called off. Jake Wright will also return, so I don’t feel I need to force the situation and, perhaps, have six or seven players sat in the stand on a Saturday.

'I didn’t want to bring anybody in who might not be any better than what we have got, because that would be a waste of time for the lad and us. We’ve got 20 outfield players training at the moment and I don’t want to cost the club money for the sake of it.'"

Kidderminster Harriers' "Boss Mark Yates insists Harriers shouldn’t be daunted by their upcoming tests on the road... After picking up an important win over Spennymoor Town last time out, Harriers must now travel to play-off rivals Brackley Town and Altrincham in succession.

Noting Chorley as an exception, the manager feels the Reds have plenty they can take from their recent away fixtures. A point at Blyth and a win at Ashton represent some more positive recent returns, with Yates saying of more trips to come 'I don’t see it as being a problem. You look at Blyth, it was a game we know we should have won. Against Ashton we went up there and showed resilience, and showed we are capable of defending and putting our bodies on the line when we need to.

'At Chorley… we got done early and it took the wind out of our sails but, you look back, we had probably 60/40 possession in our favour but just didn’t do enough with it. Lessons have been learnt.'”

Southport "will be hoping to return to winning ways this Saturday when they return home to take on Bradford (Park Avenue). The 1-0 defeat to Leamington last weekend was not what the travelling Port fans would have wanted to see... That result means Southport sit in 14th place...

Avenue are currently in fifth place... To strengthen that position, Mark Bower’s side will have to improve their mixed form of 2019. The New Year started disappointingly, as they lost their opening three games, conceding eight goals. After a further defeat and two draws, Bradford finally got their first win of the year at the end of February as they beat Chester 2-0 at Horsfall Stadium.

Since then, they’ve remained unbeaten in the following three games picking up seven points... The player who has been influential in Avenue’s current run and throughout the entire league season is on-loan Salford striker Jake Beesley, who scored his most recent goals with braces against both Chester and Curzon Ashton... Those goals contribute to the 16 the 22-year-old has bagged all season, making him the fifth top scorer in Vanarama National League North".

Chorley "announce supporters will have the opportunity to purchase tickets online for next Saturday’s fixture against Leamington at Victory Park. The Club have teamed up with Little Box Office in an exciting new partnership that will allow fans to buy tickets in advance... If the trial is successful we will look at extended it to cover other events held at Victory Park and away match travel.

No fees are added at checkout and print-at-home is the only method available at present. Pay on the gate will be available as normal".

WEST DIDSBURY TAKE THE LEAD

The inaugural event took place at Brookburn Road on the 7th October 2017, when West hosted Squires Gate. As well as over 30 canine spectators, Sky Sports News came down to capture the magic on the day, and BBC Sport also gave the event coverage.

West's Matthew Britton explained, 'Any adult bringing down their own pup will be eligible for concessionary entry as a thank you for gracing us with their presence. Once in the ground, we’ll be showering them with free treats, before welcoming them onto the pitch at half time for an official attendance count. There will be a prize for the best dressed dog, and we can guarantee there will be pats, strokes, and head rubs aplenty for each pooch.

'Having set the early pace with our quantity of dogs at a game of football, Maltby Main outstripped us later that season by welcoming 78 pups to their game against Pontefract Colliery. In a season that has been difficult on the pitch, this is a potentially winnable fixture for the club, and we’d like to reclaim that crown'.

OLD FOES

The West Yorkshire city is the only one not to have a football club and Turner is working with a group of local businessmen to back the plans.

Wakefield AFC will begin play in the Central Midlands League next season, playing home games at the nearby Pontefract Collieries ground. According to the Yorkshire Post, the ambition is to eventually reach professional status and to play at Super League club Wakefield Trinity’s Mobile Rocket (Belle Vue) Stadium".

SATURDAY ACTION

National League North

• Ashton United v Blyth Spartans
• Chorley v Leamington
• Curzon Ashton v FC United of Manchester

EvoStik Premier

• Nantwich Town vs Grantham Town
• Stalybridge Celtic v North Ferriby United
• Witton Albion v Basford United

NEXT OPPONENTS: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

Kidderminster Harriers report that "Goalkeeper Brandon Hall knows that solidity will be the foundation for a strong finish to the season for Harriers. The Reds sit outside the play-off places in National League North and are chasing a big finish.

With challenging trips to Brackley and Altrincham to come, the task in front of the Reds is mighty.

Hall knows that to stand any chance of succeeding, Harriers must stay solid and show more of what helped them see out recent wins against Ashton and Spennymoor.

'We want to be as high as we can towards the end of the season,' said Hall. 'We need as many points as we can from these last two games [and] need to be as solid as possible. There will be testing pitches and rain and wind will make it difficult, but we have to be solid and work from there. All we can do is get as many points as we can and see where that takes us'".

BEN MAKES HIS MARK

"It was a valiant display by Witton Albion who were seconds away from an improbable but well deserved victory. Hit by a hosts of injuries, both before and during the game, Albion took the lead at the end of the first half through returning Ben Harrison on his second debut until a 93rd equaliser by Paul Bignot wrestled away a home win.

Above: Ben Harrison in action against FC United's Kurt Willoughby in the league game at Broadhurst Park.

Harrison came straight into the side at the heart of the Albs defence following his loan move from Altrincham this week, partnering Josh Wardle. Missing from the squad were Anthony Gardner, River Humphreys, Luke Offord, Will Booth and Chris Noone while the injury list grew bigger before kick-off when Danny McKenna was withdrawn during the warm up, leaving the hosts with only one player on the substitutes' bench.

Albion started the game brightly with [Alty youth graduate] Osebi Abadaki causing problems down the right-hand side, putting in a number of dangerous crosses into the box which were well dealt with by the Stafford Rangers defence...

A couple of minutes before the half time interval, Witton broke the deadlock from a set piece of their own. A free kick was played into the penalty area, flicked on by Will Jones and Josh Wardle’s low driven cross was side-footed home by Harrison for a goal on his return to the club...

[Manager] Carl Macauley’s injury problems worsened midway through the second half with full-back Matty Devine picking up a shoulder injury and having to be replaced by Academy player Owen Wynne to make his senior first team debut... With no more subs available, things went from bad to worse with Abadaki over-stretching to make a clearance. He stayed on but was a passenger for the remaining 20 minutes with his movement severely restricted...

Three minutes into injury time, Rangers got themselves an equaliser. The ball was pinballing around the Albion penalty area before Paul Bignot stuck his foot through the ball and slammed home from 15 yards. It was harsh on the home team who fought bravely against the odds and were on course for their third home win in a row...

Witton Albion: Hall, Lingouba, Devine (Wynne 67’), Wardle, Harrison, Smart, Abadaki, Owens, Hopley, Jones, Foley.

Stafford Rangers: Siviter, Bignot, Hill, L. Jones, Burns, Sherratt (Williams 63’), Bailey-Jones, Thorley, Charles, A. Jones (Cuff 56’), Haworth (Mills 56’). Subs not used: Thandi, Briscoe."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The result puts the two sides level on points in the National League North...

'I thought they [Bradford (Park Avenue)] were worthy winners. I thought first-half we looked a threat but second-half we were devoid of ideas and we gave the ball away cheaply. We just look flat, but I think that’s a confidence thing when you haven’t won for a couple of games. Usually we’re a fit side but we look leggy at the moment and we need to snap out of that because we’ve got a big eight games coming.

'It was only four weeks ago we were talking about the title, now we need to make sure we stay in the play-off race. The table doesn’t lie, we’ve put ourselves in a good position because of the form that we showed. Every team has a blip, but we need to snap out of that.'

From the opposition side, the Telegraph & Argus claims that "Bradford (Park Avenue) strengthened their promotion credentials with a spirited away victory on a sloped pitch. Spennymoor Town's ground is well-known for its vertical challenge, but Avenue will have been just happy the game was on after being postponed twice previously.

Mark Bower said before the match he wouldn't let the slope deter Avenue and they duly delivered with a 2-0 win... The match was tense to begin... The breakthrough came in the 24th minute, and it went Avenue's way. Conor Branson managed to strike from close range after a dangerous free-kick was cleared to his feet in the box.

The game ebbed and flowed for the rest of the match, with a real tempo between the two promotion rivals.

It took until the 76th minute for the next momentous moment to occur, when Spennymoor's Scott Harrison was sent off for a professional foul on Beesley. The in-form Avenue striker made no mistake in punishing Spennymoor's lack of discipline, putting the finishing touches on a fine performance just under 10 minutes later with a goal of his own.

Avenue are now unbeaten in six and sit seven points clear of dropping out the play-off zone.

More optimistically, Bower's men are now only outside the advantageous second and third spots, which leads to an automatic place in the play-off semis, by virtue of goal difference. A win in their game-in-hand on first-placed Chorley will see Avenue creep as close as seven points off the division's current run-away leaders.

But, they still have to navigate a tough three games in quick succession, which includes a tough tie at home to AFC Telford."

According to the Coventry Telegraph "A consortium is ready to step in to try and help save Nuneaton Borough Football Club. Much to his delight, Jimmy Ginnelly, acting chairman and first team manager, said he hopes that some of the huge bills that have weighed down the troubled club should be paid off this week.

This is largely down to investors coming forward to get behind the momentum he is building at Liberty Way to drag the club out of the mire...

'We are hoping to pay the HMRC bill this week,' he said. 'This will stop the winding up order. That is a big step forward. We are also working with our other football creditors.'

Speaking about the consortium of investors, he said 'We are hoping this will see us until the end of the season and they we can put our business plans into place. I want to stress I was always confident we could do this, for a while it was a case that people didn't want to get involved with the club, now they do, they have got on board and got behind me and the club. This is the most positive I have felt since I came in. There is a feel good factor around the place now that we haven't had in a long time.'

That was encapsulated during a legends game at Liberty Way on Sunday. Former Boro legends took on a Ginnelly all-star team and it proved to be a great day for all involved. Several thousand pounds was raised...'It was a great day and I would like to thank everyone who took part as well as the fans who came along to support the legends' day' [said Ginnelly].

On the field, with just eight games to go, it is certain the team will be relegated from the Vanarama National League North. but Ginnelly says it gives them chance to re-group.

'Dale and I knew when we came in that we were on hiding to nothing for the next three months,' he said. 'But, to be fair, we have been really competitive in all of the games, we haven't been hammered plus now we have the [County] cup final, which is great for the lads and for the fans, they deserve it. Once the season is over, we will re-group and prepare for next season.'

In the meantime, a fund-raising appeal continues to head towards its £10,000 target. Fans set up a justgiving page and that smashed its £5,000 target in less than three weeks and it continues to attract donations not just from Nuneaton but further afield".

The Bucks may still be in the FA Trophy but Shrewsbury Town report on The Shrews' "thrilling 4-3 win on penalties against AFC Telford United. Town brought the Shropshire Senior Cup back to Shrewsbury after a 1-1 draw required a thrilling penalty shoot-out which ended 4-3 to Shrewsbury. Archie Elmore scored the first goal of the game in the 10th minute before Marcus Dinanga pulled one back for Telford in the 25th minute.

Town's captain James Rowland spoke... 'We had to battle throughout the game but in the end it paid off with the penalty shootout... They had some older players as well. But we battled hard and got the win in the end. We went out with a point to prove, we haven't got many wins recently, so tonight we proved everyone wrong that said we can't win'".

Meanwhile the Shropshire Star reports that "Boss Gavin Cowan says defender Dom Smith's return to the AFC Telford United fold 'has given everyone a lift'. The former Shrewsbury Town centre-half is back with the Bucks after a spell on loan at rivals Alfreton Town.

He impressed off the bench in the FA Trophy semi-final first leg at Leyton Orient on Saturday, which Telford lost 1-0, and is likely to play a part in the return leg this weekend having not been risked in the Shropshire Senior Cup final last night.

On sending Smith out on loan, and then bringing him back, Cowan said 'Dom was not playing and suffered from being suspended for the first three games of the season, and the lads have done well. We wanted to keep him fresh and send him out to get his legs going, and now he comes back match fit. Alfreton had won four games in a row and Dom has been playing ever so well.

'He is our player and he has hit seamlessly back into the side, and I don’t sign anyone if I am not going to play them. He is an unbelievable character, a real man's man that suits me down to the ground and it has given everyone a lift. There's been no sulking from him, at all. He's all about the team.'

Smith joined the Bucks at the back end of last season following his release from Shrewsbury, where he was part of the 2014/15 side which finished as runners-up in League Two."

ENGLAND "C"

The hosts were pegged back twice by a stubborn Welsh side having first led through a Nathan Peate own goal and then again through a sublime Kurt Willoughby free-kick. The FC United of Manchester man was one of three National League North players on show with Ed Williams and Luke Trotman also on the field for the Three Lions.

England took the lead after Nathan Peate deflected in Trotman's driven low cross before Kayne McLaggon levelled for the away side.

Willoughby gave just over 700 fans something to remember with his free-kick from range to restore the hosts' lead.

Substitute Adam Roscow made it 2-2, hammering home past Ben Killip to set-up a nervy finish for Fairclough's men..

'I’m not unhappy about a draw', boss Fairclough told Salford City's video service. 'You’ve got a group of young lions against a group of really experienced Welsh players. I love watching the young players shift the ball about. There are players out there that brought people to the edge of the seats'".

CHESHIRE NEWS

Chris’s book, which is entitled 'The World Was My Oyster', takes a chronological look at the tours he organised, and tells some fascinating tales of the experiences along the way. Among his various travelling companions down the years was broadcaster, author and former footballer Fred Eyre, who Chris credits with giving him the idea of writing the book, when the two were sharing a tent together in a safari park in East Africa...

Chris formed the club now known as Cheadle Town under the name of Grasmere Rovers in 1961, and remained at the club continuously until 2017. During his time in charge, he arranged numerous overseas tours that were undertaken in the close season, which saw them play 96 matches in 30 different countries, including games in the Giants' Stadium in New York and the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.

Along the way, they met various well known names, including Alfredo di Stefano, Jairzinho, Sir Bobby Charlton, Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, and even Great Train Robber Ronnie Biggs during a trip to Rio de Janeiro.

Chris organised every tour, and the book explains in detail the way in which a club from humble beginnings in the Burnage area of Manchester became footballing ambassadors around the globe... On one occasion in Lloret de Mar in Spain, Chris agreed that the team would play some games under the name of Manchester AFC to make the name a bit more recognisable. The team arrived to find posters all over the resort advertising a challenge match with 'Manchester United', which led to Chris having to make various threats to the local officials before the posters were replaced with the correct name...

One of the more impressive tales involves the Brazilian World Cup star of the 1970s, Jairzinho. When Cheadle Town travelled over to Rio in the 80s, Chris contacted the Brazilian FA for assistance when they arrived, and was shocked to find that they offered Jairzinho as the tour guide. The association led to Chris inviting him over to England the following year, where Jairzinho hosted a soccer school at Park Road and played in a charity game...

'The World Was My Oyster', a footballing memoir by Chris Davies, is priced at £9.99, and is available online or direct from the author by e-mailing chrisdaviesctfc@outlook.com".

RESERVES' WAITING GAME

After a goalless first half against Greenalls, four Altrincham goals in a ten-minute spell in the second half settled the encounter. Reece Colley broke the deadlock in the 54th minute with Callum Dolan (right) doubling the advantage barely a minute later. Dolan made it 3-0 in the 62nd minute before Shaun Densmore completed the scoring.

As Alty await their rival's results, Pilkington's next game is away this Saturday to Greenalls Padgate St. Oswald's.

Altrincham's side tonight included four first-team squad members. Shaun Densmore, Simon Richman, Max Harrop and loanee Callum Dolan were all in a starting eleven, which also included trialist left-winger Kieran Holsgrove (18) who came through the West Bromwich youth system before joining Watford.

BEN SCORES

TUESDAY GAME

• Spennymoor Town 0-2 Bradford (Park Avenue)

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Jason Ainsley’s aids[?] are third and going for the title while Avenue are well placed in fifth. Bower told the Telegraph & Argus 'They’re a really good side. They’re well backed and they’ve signed some really good players. They took our top scorer in the summer and paid a decent fee for him and he’s barely played in their team so it just shows how strong they are; not just the starting 11 but the strength that they’ve got in depth.

'Their expectation with the squad that they’ve got should be promotion, maybe ours should be slightly different to that. So for us to be up there challenging with them is something that we’re very proud of. Hopefully we can show that again when we compete with them and hopefully we can get a result.'"

We learn from the Lancashire Evening Post that "Chorley boss Jamie Vermiglio now believes it is a two-horse race for the National League North title between the Magpies and Stockport County.

Spennymoor have lost two of their last three games, after a seven-game winning run propelled them into contention. But the Magpies celebrated a National League North club record 21st win of the term by beating Boston United 2-0 on Saturday to move 10 points clear of Spennymoor. They have played two games less than Vermiglio’s men with County also four points adrift with a game in hand after their FA Trophy run.

Now, as leaders Chorley prepare to host Leamington on Saturday, while Stockport host Fylde in the Trophy semi-final second leg, Vermiglio knows that should either side win all of their remaining games, they will win the league.

'I’m just as confident about winning the league as the other teams,' he said. 'Spennymoor have had a difficult run over the last three games but they will still feel like they are in contention, especially because they have to play us. But they have got to go a long way, realistically. It probably is between us and Stockport at this moment. If they win all of their games, they win the league. If we win all our games we win the league, simple as that.

'Stockport have the FA Trophy second leg at home, they have a great chance of winning that. If they do, it will be great for them and the league and probably a bit advantageous for us just in terms of the amount of minutes that they will play. At the same time it could bring confidence.'

The Magpies have picked up the most points in the division at home. And with 38 points from their previous 17 games at home Vermiglio sees 12 more from their Victory Park games, including a Stockport visit, as key to their title bid. 'There’s seven games to go,' he said. 'There’s four at home and three away and we are just looking to get maximum points from each, starting with Leamington on Saturday. It will be tough, when we played Ashton at home and lost 1-0 people had it down as an automatic three points.

'It just does not happen like that. Any team can get a goal at one moment in football. After Leamington we have Stockport, Bradford and Telford at home. They are all difficult but if we can pick up maximum points at home and scrape a few away then we will be very close. That means Stockport have to maintain their good run of form. Hopefully they will slip-up but the way that it is going I think it will go right to the wire.'

Alex Newby faces a three-match ban having been sent off at Boston United."

According to NL Daily, "Nuneaton Borough have confirmed the departure of James Baxendale, who leaves to join Mickleover Sports. The midfielder appeared for the Boro’ eight times, contributing two assists, including for the winning goal at Stourbridge last week. Baxendale joins Sports as they fight relegation from the Northern Premier League".

Nuneaton Borough also "have confirmed the departure of Aaron Birch. The midfielder appeared for the Boro' four times and departs to join former Nuneaton Assistant Manager Steve Hinks at the Yeltz [Halesowen Town]".

We learn from the Shropshire Star that "AFC Telford boss Gavin Cowan has told Leyton Orient the pressure is on them as the sides do battle for a place at Wembley. Orient hold a 1-0 advantage after Saturday’s FA Trophy semi-final first leg at Brisbane Road.

Now the National League leaders will make the trip to Shropshire this Saturday with more than 3,000 tickets already sold for the second leg...

'There was no fear going into it and ultimately there is no pressure on us,' said Cowan. 'The expectation is on Orient and there is nothing for us to lose. We wanted the tie to still be alive and it is. We are excited to bring them back to our place and I trust my players to perform when needed and bring things over the line'".

RESERVES AT THE JDS

Pictured right, we see goalkeeper Andrew Jones as he leads the Reserves out for their last match at the JDS, a 5-3 league victory over Egerton, on 26 February.

NEXT OPPONENTS: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

But in a firm, fierce wind and a driving rain made for a tough afternoon for both teams... 'If one thing spoils football matches, it’s wind,' he commented. 'But I thought, for the supporters, it was exciting with lots of goal-mouth action from both teams. We had to play the conditions; we had to be brave and hold a good line in the second half. They were literally throwing everything forward and were desperately trying to get something out of the game.

'But we stood firm and headed everything. If we didn’t head it, we were right in there competing. That’s what it is about sometimes.'

Spennymoor felt aggrieved at the final whistle after having a goal disallowed for a foul as Glen Taylor nodded home. 'For me, it’s a clear foul on Johnno at the back stick,' added Yates. 'The referee rightly spotted [it] but I thought we stood up manfully. They’re a really good side with some really good players. We produced moments of quality to win the game and defended for our lives'".

ALTY OLD BOYS

That win has given them a four point cushion in fifth place in the table... [Ex-Alty striker] James Walshaw had given the Seadogs a first half lead, but Celtic turned it around with two goals in the last three minutes from Scott Bakkor and Josh Solomon-Davies, a result that ultimately cost Scarborough boss Steve Kittrick his job. He was sacked on Saturday night, along with assistant Chris Bolder".

Former Alty loanee, Owen Dale, scored for Crewe Alexandra on Saturday as they thrashed Crawley Town 6-1.

BEN GOES ON LOAN

NL Daily adds that "The 28-year-old defender links up with the club on a one-month deal. It returns Harrison to familiar surroundings, having made over 200 appearances for the club. He signed for Alty from Nantwich Town in May 2017".

Injuries have meant that Ben has been limited to 3(+3) appearances for Altrincham this season.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

'We know Jak pretty well as he came along to training with Kyle Finn when we first looked at Finny. Myself and Marc also saw him play for Coventry U23s against Crystal Palace U23s recently and he did well in that game too. As soon as we knew we’d need some cover at right-back we made the move to bring him in and we’re delighted to have him'... Hickman will be available for Tuesday’s trip to Alfreton".

The EvoStik League confirms that "Title-chasing Atherton Collieries have been boosted by the news that winger Connor Hughes will remain at the club for the rest of the season. Hughes, 25, arrived on a short-term loan from Curzon Ashton recently and was man of the match in the recent win over Leek Town where he scored his first goal for the club.

The former Oldham man has also played for Hyde, Halifax, Worcester City, Warrington Town and Stalybridge Celtic."

Darlington report that they have "completed the loan signing of left-sided player Ben Jackson from Huddersfield Town. Ben, 18, signed for the Terriers in 2015 at Under 15 level, and has steadily progressed through the age groups. He has also been impressive for the Terriers at Under 19 level, and this season has been an ever-present for them, playing 32 matches. He can play left-back, or as a wing-back on either side.

Ben will go straight into the squad for Saturday’s home game with Chester... With our other signing, Kit Elliott, we will now have six loan players, but we can only name five on the official teamsheet".

Meanwhile, at Leamington "Brakes host a youthful Aston Villa team at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium in the Birmingham Senior Cup Semi Final on Wednesday night. The Brakes look to advance to their second final in three years...

This is the first season back in the competition for Villa, the most successful team in the competition having lifted the trophy of the oldest county cup competition and third oldest association football competition, 19 times.

Leamington come into this fixture after a 1-0 win against Southport, Colby Bishop netting the game’s only goal early on...

Brakes route to the final has consisted of winning a first round penalty shoot out away to Sutton Coldfield. In the second they hosted Lye Town and despite going down to an early goal, scored 5 to qualify for the quarter finals. West Brom travelled to the Phillips 66 for the quarter final but, despite current Brakes midfielder Sam Wilding captaining them that night, fell to a 4-1 defeat that sent Leamington into the semi final...

In the other semi final, Stourbridge hosted Nuneaton Borough and it was the National League North outfit who secured their place in the final; and with room to spare as they missed a penalty in the first half! Borough will await the winner of this tie in the final".

The Grimsby Telegraph informs us that "Max Wright has impressed while on loan at Boston United this season but he may yet still represent Grimsby Town in 2018/2019.

The 20-year-old signed a Youth loan with the Pilgrims back in September, and has since clocked up 25 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals. However, due to the terms of his agreement, and with the National League North campaign set to finish on April 27, there may yet be scope for the Youth graduate to make his EFL debut this term... The winger will return to Blundell Park on March 30, shortly before his 21st birthday as per the terms of a Youth loan... He would then be available for the final six League Two fixtures.

Grimsby Town boss Michael Jolley told Grimsby Live, 'Max has been making a really good contribution there. I know their manager is happy with him and the way he is progressing... Boston’s season finishes before ours does, so of course it’s something that we can look at in terms of perhaps getting Max involved in the last part of our season'...

Having progressed through the Academy at Blundell Park, alongside Harry Clifton, Wright signed a two-year deal with his hometown club in the summer... Wright in an interview with the Boston Standard, said 'I definitely hope (I’m being noticed), I train all week with them and Thursdays with Boston'".

ENGLAND "C" v WALES AT SALFORD

Jones said 'I’m so proud of our system in Wales. Managing Wales is absolutely the highlight of my career, and to get a win against England would just cap it all off'...

'We know it is going to be a tough ask once more, their squad is full of National League players, mostly full-time professionals we’re playing against,– but we just want to put on a good show for the JD Welsh Premier League to show how much our league has improved'...

With 10 of Wales’ domestic clubs represented in the present Wales ‘C’ squad, Jones’ side showcases the best of the players who compete in the Welsh system every week, and the manager argues that the standard of the squad shows just how much the domestic game in Wales has grown'".

Also in Wales, Cheshire Live reports on former rivals of Altrincham, Bangor City, where a fans' group is considering starting a new club after the turmoil endured under the club's current ownership by the Vaughan family.

"Demoted from the Welsh Premier League at the end of last season after failing to obtain the necessary tier one licence and subsequently placed in the Huws Gray Alliance, Bangor's woes haven't abated this season and they have been faced with financial issues that has seen bills and playing staff go unpaid, the club's auditors resign and debts of around £100,000 accrue.

Owned by Vaughan Sports Management (VSM), Bangor saw former Chester City midfielder Stephen Vaughan Jnr, son of disgraced former Chester chairman Stephen Vaugnan Snr, return to the club as chairman last month".

NEXT FOR THE LADIES

YOUTHS WIN SHOOT-OUT AT CURZON

Curzon are the current Premier Division leaders, five points ahead of fourth-placed Altrincham who have a game in hand. On 31 March, Alty Youth are at home to AFC Fylde at Manchester Health Academy, M23 9BP

THROUGH THE YEARS: 30 MARCH

Howard Watts and Mike Garnett's Through the Years also reveal that it is 17 years since Altrincham's most recent match on 30 March. That game was at home to Burscough in the UniBond (Northern) Premier League, when Alty lost 0-3

Right: Alty captain Mark Sertori.

Both sides were in much need of a win after poor recent runs. Before the match Altrincham had held a meeting about the Club's parlous financial state which had underlined the threat to the existing set-up both on and off the field and indicated that there would be a substantial cut in the players' wage bill for next season. For their part, Burscough were coming to terms with a new managerial regime following the shock departure, after seven years, of manager John Davison, a former Moss Lane favourite in his playing days.

Despite lying sixth in the league table, Alty were without a win in eight games at kick off. Now they played out a lacklustre and goal-less first half against a Burscough side who were themselves without a win in six matches. But things immediately got worse after the break when an error by Ryan let in Lee Furlong for a straightforward goal, a minute after the re-start. Altrincham played their best football after this but rarely looked like levelling against a Burscough side fielding five of their Youth team. Knowles knocked in number two when a throw-in was not cleared (75 mins).

Alty were poor from then onwards and, when Coburn missed a corner ball, Mason headed home after his first effort had come back to him off the upright (89 mins). This was Alty's heaviest home league defeat for five seasons.

Rod Thornley returned to the side after masseur-duty for England in midweek, joining a squad which had been beaten by Hyde in midweek. Gareth Strange, on loan from Accrington, replaced Lee Poland in the starting line-up and Keith Mairs's place on the bench went to Vernum Rowland, who was celebrating his 17th birthday.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. Neil RYAN, 3. Barry SHUTTLEWORTH, 4. Mark MADDOX, 5. Mark SERTORI (capt.), 6. Steve HAWES, 7. Kevin HULME, 8. Ian CRANEY, 9. Dave SWANICK, 10. Rod THORNLEY, 11. Gareth STRANGE. Subs: 12. Lee POLAND, 14. Marc WHITEMAN, 15. Vernum ROWLAND.

NEXT OPPONENTS: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

Harriers netted a goal in each half to see off the challenge of title-chasing Spennymoor Town at Aggborough. The Reds were ahead at half time thanks to Ashley Chambers' 12th goal of the season. Spennymoor equalised four minutes after the restart through Glen Taylor, only for Chambers to immediately net again with what would turn out to be the winner.

The visitors rallied late but couldn't find a way past the home rearguard, Rob Ramshaw shown a red card after the final whistle after protests from a disallowed goal for the Moors boiled over. The game was played in challenging conditions throughout, with a fierce wind later joined by driving rain...

After a quarter-hour, McAlinden showed quick feet to play in Daniels who directed a shot off target, the same provider giving Chambers the ammunition for the first goal of the day on 21 minutes, a perfect pass for the striker to ease past Gould and into the net...

After the break... it would be the visitors celebrating soon after. Flowers had inadvertently forced Hall into a save as an attempted clearing header found the target, the hosts switching off on the re-worked cross that Taylor was left unmarked to nod home. If the start to half had infuriated Mark Yates, the Harriers boss was mightily cheered by the response; just 12 seconds between the kick-off and the second home goal [with] Chambers tidying away another McAlinden cross to leave Town shocked...

Spennymoor, with the wind in their favour, kept Harriers alert defensively... It wasn't totally one-way traffic. Harriers did go close... Spennymoor had thought they'd equalised as we went into four minutes of added time, but Taylor's header was chalked off for a foul, the marksman adjudged to have fouled Johnson as he climbed to meet a cross.

The referee's whistle brought the game to an end, but perceived injustice at that late call remained within the visitors who remonstrated a little too forcefully; Ramshaw given a straight red for his part in the aftermath".

From the other side, Spennymoor Town added that "Moors were denied a clear goal as the game entered injury time when Taylor was adjudged to have climbed on the back of Ryan Johnson before heading past Brandon Hall. Rob Ramshaw was shown a red card after the final whistle as Moors lost ground on Chorley after their victory at Boston United.

Twelve days after a 1-1 draw against Southport Jason Ainsley made one change, bringing in Shaun Tuton for the injured Andrew Johnson... Moors, who were playing against the swirling wind in the first half, posed a much greater threat in a frantic and action packed second half".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The maximum allocation for away supporters at Victory Park is 1,260 and County fans are advised to purchase their tickets in advance from Edgeley Park before travelling... For non-season ticket holders, due to the increased costs of staging the fixture, ticket prices have risen slightly to Adults: £15 (seated)/£13 (standing)".

The Lancashire Evening Post adds that on Saturday, "Chorley forged four points clear at the top of National North with a fully committed performance in very testing conditions. While the exchanges were often very scrappy at the windswept Jakeman’s Stadium, there were moments of high drama as both teams played the second half with 10 men.

The Magpies were full value for their victory, readily containing the spasmodic threat of a Boston side strangely short on the battling spirit the situation demanded. One up at the break, Chorley could even afford a penalty miss before sealing victory with a fine goal 12 minutes from time... The Magpies went ahead with a smartly-constructed goal in the 34th minute. Elliot Newby slipped a delightful ball through for Marcus Carver to run on to, calmly round keeper George Willis and angle his shot into the empty net.

The match erupted on the stroke of half-time. Boston centre-back Ben Middleton conceded a penalty for a foul on Carver but Willis saved Adam Blakeman’s spot-kick. A melee promptly developed and Alex Newby was sent off after tangling with Middleton. The Boston player was also dismissed, receiving a second yellow card within 30 seconds of his first for the penalty incident.

Chorley managed the second half playing against the wind with commendable composure, Matt Urwin in goal having relatively little to do. The Magpies’ second goal formally wrapped up proceedings. This time the roles of Carver and Newby were reversed, the former playing in the latter who slid a measured finish into the corner of the net, giving Willis no chance.

'We were very solid, very resolute today and in fact I thought we should have put the game to bed by half-time,' said Chorley boss Jamie Vermiglio".

According to the Boston Standard "Ben Middleton’s red card will speed up Boston United’s defensive recruitment. Manager Craig Elliott says the Pilgrims have been in discussions with ‘a couple’ of centre backs in recent weeks...

Middleton’s second red of the season means he will miss the next two matches... 'I was in talks with a couple of centre backs already because that’s an area we needed to improve,' he told The Standard. 'One of them’s for a permanent move, with a view to next year as well. Somebody we want to bring in. We’ll see what happens but we’ll escalate that now. We were a defender short and we need to get him in as soon as possible.'

Elliott was frustrated to again lose Middleton, whose campaign has been plagued by injury.

'It’s disappointing for Ben. he’s had a scratchy season and I feel sorry for him,' Elliott added.... 'He’s a good player, one of my key signings this summer and we’ve not had him for long periods. We’ll miss him again now. He’s one of the few aggressive, experienced players we’ve got.'

If no deal is done before Saturday, United look set to bring Spencer Harris back in to partner Ryan Qualter, who the manager believes needs to work with a regular partner. 'Ryan’s been flogged a bit,' Elliott added. 'He’s been the mainstay. He’s not missed training, he’s not missed many minutes... He’s sometimes keeping us together. Ideally he could do with a long term partner.'”

The National League adds that "Craig Elliott accepts Boston United aren’t quite up to the play-offs, but he’s determined to eventually take them there... Defeat at home to Chorley means they have a six point gap to now make up...

'I’m fed up. I think one thing it has done is put a nail in it, we’re not good enough for the play-offs,' Elliott said. 'I’m sick of saying it at home. I think we have played well. I don’t think we’ve been bad. We’ve just not had enough. We’re a classic mid-table team. We’ve been fantastic away from home and I just think at home we go missing. I expect more from them and I think we go hiding a bit. It’s happened too many times at home. We lack leaders and I need to sort that. I need the right players in. I’ll go get them.

'I’ve learned a lot this year. We’ve got too many flimsy players, similar personalities where they just accept things around them.'"

Also, from the Boston Standard comes news that "Ashley Jackson is expected to return to training with Boston United this week. The left back has been a mainstay for the majority of the season, starting 35 games since his summer move. With the exception of the final few minutes against Nuneaton, where he was sent off, and the ensuing three games where he was suspended, Jackson had featured in every minute for the Pilgrims this season.

But illness led to him being sidelined this week, with Chesterfield loanee George Smith replacing him in the 2-0 defeat to Chorley; Boston having lost every game Jackson hasn’t started this season.

'He’s got seven days of medication so I’m hoping, Thursday, he’ll be back training and okay,' Elliott said of Jackson. 'There was no need to risk him. He’s had a bit of pneumonia and problems with his lungs so hopefully he’s okay. I’m harsh as a manager. If it’s a bad ankle or hamstring strain I’d throw him in there. But something like that you ned to be careful. The lad wanted to play but you’ve got to be careful.'"

The Yorkshire Evening Post informs us that "Guiseley co-manager Marcus Bignot insists that he remains very confident that the Lions will stave off the National League North drop and avoid a second successive relegation.

It has been another testing campaign for the Lions, afforded kudos by way of some FA Cup highs, but some sobering reality at league level. Guiseley’s current plight is by no means as thankless and desperate as events last season when their relegation from the National League had a strong air of inevitability about it for much of 2017-18...

As it stands, the fourth-from-bottom Lions are winless in 12 matches since New Year’s Day and have not picked up three points on home soil since October 13. They do have a three-point buffer and a game in hand over the two sides just above them in FC United of Manchester and Ashton United, who they welcome in a potential pivotal ‘six-pointer’ on April 13. And Bignot remains confident... 'We have no doubt about this group; they are all in it together. Whether it is the starting 11 on the pitch or in the stands. We have all got our common cause and the motivation is to make sure that we are a National League North club at the end of the season. I have no doubt that we will manage to do that. The boys are giving everything but the results have not gone the way we wanted of late.'

A quick turnaround sees Guiseley face Curzon, their last opponents, for the second time in under a fortnight. Despite a narrow 1-0 defeat across the Pennines, Bignot was delighted with the performance levels of the Lions and is seeking a replication on home soil tomorrow".

NEXT OPPONENTS: KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

Boss Mark Yates made a bold call before the game in dropping skipper Fraser Horsfall in handing a start and debut to new arrival, Harry Flowers, who'd joined from Solihull Moors the day before. Also back in the starting line-up was Milan Butterfield, who was favoured over Russ Penn.

The home side began well with Ironside, Chambers and McAlinden all seeing sight of the Spennymoor goal, before the opener arrived on 21 minutes; Harriers with a fine move that belied the blustery conditions, McAlinden driving at the Moors defence before playing in Chambers who slotted home...

Early goals in the second half of matches has [sic] proved to be a regular occurrence for Harriers this season and there was another here, just four minutes having elapsed after the break when Spennymoor pulled level. Hall had pulled off a save to keep out an effort from one of his own players – no one watching Taylor on the follow-up as he nodded in a recycled cross at the far post.

Harriers weren’t deflated, though, and they quickly re-established their lead. McAlinden was, yet again, the provider as his ball was taken down by Chambers and planted beyond Gould for 2-1...

Spennymoor had thought they’d equalised in injury time, but Taylor’s header was ruled out after the referee spotted a foul on a Harriers defender, the relief soon joined by the final whistle".

Their line up comprised Hall, Austin (Horsfall 78), Taylor, Butterfield (Penn 90), Flowers, Johnson, McAlinden, Daniels, Ironside (Thomas 78), Chambers, Williams. Subs not used: Palmer, Richards.

SATURDAY GATES

• Att: 1,007: Boston United 0-2 Chorley
• Att. TBC: Kidderminster Harriers 2-1 Spennymoor Town
• Att. 452: Leamington 1-0 Southport

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The Broadhurst Park playing surface passed two inspections at 10.15am and 1pm, but referee Amy Fearn deemed it 'unsafe' an hour before kick-off as a dropped ball failed to bounce in several areas of the pitch and also stopp[ed] sharply when kicked along the ground.

But Watson argued that the ground would have improved with players running on it and declared that he had played Premier League games in worse conditions. 'Both managers wanted the game to be played and, personally, I didn’t think it was that bad,' the City boss claimed. 'But the referee didn’t ask for our opinion; she just explained the reasons and we wouldn’t have been able to change her mind.

'I’ve played in conditions that have been a lot worse, but it boils down to opinions and the only one that matters is the referee’s and you have to respect it. She deemed it unsafe, but there is danger in any game with the ball stopping and somebody getting hurt; that’s the sport.

'I know the rain was relentless and non-stop for three hours but, once the players are on the pitch, the stud marks can help drain the water as well.'

Watson went on to argue that he was disappointed that an earlier decision could not have made to spare City’s supporters making the journey across the M62. Nearby National League North contests at Altrincham and Guiseley were both postponed before 10am, as were fixtures at FC United’s League Two neighbours Bury and Oldham...

Watson admitted, 'It was the worst-case scenario to get everybody here and have the fans standing out in the rain waiting to hear if it was on. They might have got half-priced pies (an away kiosk was actually handing out free burgers following the announcement), but everyone travelled and prepared for the game only for it to be called off an hour before kick-off.

'It’s not really a problem schedule wise for us, because we have no other midweek games, but I feel for the supporters. I don’t think it was right to take it up until an hour before the game when everybody had got here. Probably the best time to call it off would have been at 10.30am.'

A first inspection, arranged for 9.30am, was delayed by 45 minutes when a locally-based Football League referee was stuck in traffic. Matchday official Fearn conducted the next two and, defending her eventual call and the decision to stage three separate inspections, she said, 'The ball was not bouncing in significant areas and that would have compromised player safety...

'When I arrived at 12, the ball was bouncing fine, but the playing surface just deteriorated in the hour between 1pm and 2pm.'”

According to the Boston Standard "Boston United’s outside chances of making the National League North play-offs took a hammerblow as they were beaten 2-0 by league leaders Chorley.

In a game of two red cards and a penalty save, the Magpies moved four points clear of Stockport as they took their chances and the Pilgrims failed to really create any, ending the game without a shot on target to trouble Matt Urwin.

The first half ended in controversial fashion with Alex Newby and Ben Middleton both receiving straight reds for their part in a tussle following George Willis’s penalty save.

Middleton, already booked for dissent, made a thunderous clearing tackle but some afters with the Magpies man saw him pick up his second yellow. Newby handed a straight red for kicking out at the United defender.

Willis guessed right to push away Adam Blakeman’s spot kick after Middleton had upended Carver in the box, Chorley awarded a penalty at the second time of asking after a cross has slapped against the arm of Jonathan Wafula.

Prior to that all-action end, the first half had been relatively even in the blustery conditions, Carver’s 33rd-minute goal the difference.

Having latched onto Elliot Newby’s through ball he rounded Willis and, from the tightest of angles, squeezed his strike between the post and the backtracking Ryan Qualter...

The second half struggled to get going with Chorley protecting their lead and Boston huffing and puffing but failing to break down a resolute defence...

It had been a quiet half for the United keeper until Elliot Newby doubled the advantage in the 78th-minute, slotting home with a cool finish from a tight angle. There was time for United to give a debut to striker Tom Clare, the 46th player to feature for Boston this season".

BUILDBASE FA TROPHY

Macauley Bonne's second half close range finish was all that separated the sides in a tight affair in swirling east London wind at Brisbane Road.

Both sides had chances, and Orient could have taken the game away from Telford had their finishing been more on point.

But equally the Bucks had chances of their own...

Cowan... said, 'It was disappointing to concede in the manner we did, but the lads showed courage and defended resolutely. Ultimately it is mission accomplished as phase one was to stay in the tie.

'The lads enjoyed the pressure but I think they need to trust themselves more in the mid phase and shorten their game. They need to have more courage on the ball as we tried to go too early too often. There was just some more composure needed.

'We have come to a magnificent club and I thought the lads approached it really professionally... Today the message was a lead or stay in the tie. We are in the tie so we have achieved that. We can take them back to our place now and put them under pressure and get our fans to help us bring it home.

'I can't imagine they will be reserved coming to us, we will be going all guns blazing'".

In the other tie, the Blackpool Gazette says that "AFC Fylde rued late missed chances as they drew 0-0 with Stockport County in the first leg of their FA Trophy semi-final at Mill Farm. The first half wasn’t a brilliant one for the Coasters, as the visitors started brightly and without fear.

The explosive pace of Darren Stephenson was on show within the opening exchanges... The weather made for a heavy pitch and a game where both sides struggled for fluency but it was Stockport who made the most of it and found joy down the right-hand side through Adam Thomas and Sam Minihan...

The second half continued in much the same fashion with the rain beginning to lash down ferociously... The Hatters continued to ask questions as Jordan Keane found himself played through on goal, only to blaze over. Twenty minutes from time, Nyal Bell raced through on goal and found himself one-on-one with Lynch but rushed his effort and the keeper held firm.

At the other end, Danny Rowe, who had been limited throughout the game, sent a speculative shot wide from 30 yards, which summed up a tough afternoon for him. The idea that Fylde could yet win the game seemed unlikely until the arrivals of Alex Reid and Danny Philliskirk...

Matty Warburton’s introduction gave life to the County frontline as he fired an effort at Lynch from distance, but it was again kept out...

All will be settled at Edgeley Park next weekend."

MATCH POSTPONED

ALL QUIET THEN ALL ACTION

Including the postponed match against Brackley Town, Alty will now face eight league matches in 28 days to the end of the normal season or 11 matches in 43 days should they reach the play-off final!

SATURDAY'S FIXTURES

• Alfreton Town P-P Hereford
• Altrincham P-P Brackley Town
• Blyth Spartans P-P Nuneaton Borough
• Boston United 0-2 Chorley
• Darlington P-P Chester FC
• FC United of Manchester P-P York City
• Guiseley P-P Curzon Ashton
• Kidderminster Harriers 2-1 Spennymoor Town
• Leamington 1-0 Southport

Buildbase FA Trophy Semi-Finals, First Leg

• Leyton Orient 1-0 AFC Telford United
• AFC Fylde 0-0 Stockport County

END OF SEASON AWARDS

LOCAL NEWS

There will be no extra time played and penalties will decide the winner in the event of the scores being level after 90 minutes. Premier Division side Farsley Celtic have won the competition once before, and beat Belper Town 3-1 on Tuesday night to book their place in the final. It's the first time in the final for Trafford, who caused an upset in beating Buxton 1-0 in the last four."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

22-year-old Flowers has plenty of non-league experience; he was snapped up by Burnley while playing for Brocton... Guiseley paid a fee for Flowers’ services after a successful loan spell there, before moving to Solihull...

Thomas, meanwhile, is another big arrival at 6ft 2, a 23-year-old who is a former England U20 international. Thomas came through the ranks at Derby County and has EFL experience [at] Notts County, Blackpool and Coventry City. He joined Sutton United on loan before a similar spell with Moors was made permanent in 2018".

In the Telegraph & Argus we read that "Bradford (Park Avenue) are hoping new signing Lewis Rathbone can follow in the footsteps of team-mates Lewis Knight and Conor Branson. Midfielder Rathbone joined the club last week and is the latest addition to have come through the American University system.

Branson, who has recently signed a contract extension at Horsfall, and Knight, who penned a deal until 2020 in November after joining from Marshall University in the States, have both impressed. Now Avenue hope Rathbone, who hails from Manchester and was a member of the Manchester City Academy as a youngster, can make a similar impact.

Rathbone, who is training with the squad while awaiting his international clearance from the FA, enjoyed a successful scholar period with Concordia University of Nebraska where he captained the university's squad and was named a Scholar All American in 2017.

In 2018 supporters of The Nebraska Bugeaters, who compete in the United Premier League, voted Rathbone the club's most valuable player. Bugeaters chairman Jonathan Collura, who is a director at Avenue, said 'I am excited to see Lewis join Bradford. His commitment and competitive attitude last season was evident both on and off of the pitch'.

Avenue CEO Damian Irvine added 'Bradford have signed three ex-pats out of the US university system this season. We are finding that there is a lot of quality talent that is available and we are well placed to build on this as a conduit back to the English game'".

And Bradford (Park Avenue) add that "Rathbone follows the US University pathway to Horsfall that Conor Branson and also Lewis Knight have so successfully taken. In August of 2018 Knight was signed after a successful trial period having completed his studies at Marshall University in the States and committed his future to The Club in November by penning an extension until 2020".

Meanwhile, the Telegraph & Argus tells us that "Mark Bower says winning the Bradford Sports Awards 'Club of the Year' is testament to his side's penchant for overachieving...

Bower said 'It's really nice to be recognised. It's nice for everyone at the club, not just on the pitch, but off it. It's a team effort to ensure that we're in a position to compete and do well. We've not had a bad start to this year either I guess now, looking at it'...

Avenue were tipped for relegation from the National League North for the previous two seasons, but Bower steered them towards a surprise play-off semi-final last year... On why he thinks they received the award he said 'I guess punching above your weight and overachieving out on the pitch, which was something that was contributed to by everybody, not just the players and staff'...

Bower added...'It's nice to be recognised in such a great city where there's so many talented sports clubs and people doing such good work'...

Avenue came away from strugglers Ashton United with a pleasing 2-0 win, solidifying their play-off berth and putting them on a run of five games without defeat. Bower said, 'We adapted well to the conditions. I think we looked fit. It was really windy, the pitch was horrendous, it was like a gluepot pitch and players could hardly keep their footing and struggled to kick a ball properly it was that bad. We've just started to get a little bit more of what we deserved from the performances that we've put in.

'I kept saying it, you keep your level of performance, there's always going to be ups and downs along the way but, over an extended period of time, the points will follow and that's what's happened over the last few weeks'... [BPA are] not playing this coming Saturday. Bower said 'It's a little bit strange not playing on Saturday at this time of year really, but that's football and we've rearranged the Spennymoor one for the Tuesday, so it's not a massive gap we've had without any games'".

At Guiseley, The Lions "are delighted to announce that Josh Langley’s loan has been extended again. The 26 year-old centre back has signed a loan agreement until the end of season from Southport. Langley has played in six games so far". Josh did not appear in any Altrincham games during his loan spell at Moss Lane.

An Alty "old boy" has again left the National League North as Matlock Town confirm that the club's "striking options have been increased by the return of Jonny Margetts for a second loan spell from Boston United and the acquisition of winger Nathan Morley from Burton Albion.

Margetts (25) returned to the Pilgrims after Matlock’s last fixture, the home win over North Ferriby United a fortnight ago, when his 28th minute header secured the points. In his first month on loan, Margetts netted four times in five appearances. Matlock boss Dave Frecklington is delighted... 'Jonny was great for us in his first loan spell, four goals in five games is a great return, he’s a natural goalscorer and a real fox in the box. He came to us, got his goals and we won a couple of games. When he went back to Boston we said to him that if things didn’t work out, you know where we are and we’re absolutely delighted that he’s back with us for the rest of the season.'

Margetts had earlier in the season had a loan spell at Gainsborough Trinity... After going back to Boston from Matlock, he made a brief substitutes appearance for the Pilgrims in their home defeat to Stockport County but did not feature in their win at Southport last weekend and Boston have since brought in another forward, Sam Clare on loan from Bradford City. In his initial loan spell at Matlock he was named by fans as their player of the month for February".

And Chesterfield confirm that "George Smith has joined Boston United on loan until the end of the season. The 22-year-old made two appearances for the Spireites at the beginning of the campaign before heading to Dover Athletic on loan. Smith made seven appearances during his spell at The Whites and the left-back will now head to Boston for the remainder of the season."

The Boston Standard reports that "Craig Elliott believes the pressure is firmly on Chorley as the title-chasers prepare to arrive at the Jakemans Stadium...

'They’re a good team, but obviously they’ve had a little wobble of late and I think there’s a pressure on them now,' the manager said. 'They know they can’t have any errors now and we can play into that really. They’re going for the league title and they’ve got a lot to lose. We’re at home and we’ve got to go for it again.'

Chorley have picked up seven points from their past three fixtures, but lost three of their four contests prior to that. The Pilgrims will be looking to build on Saturday’s win at Southport... Elliott believes Chorley arrive in Lincolnshire at a time when Boston are able to boast a squad depth they have lacked at times this campaign...

He added... 'We’ve got strength now. Young Max (Wright) and Nicky (Walker) are outstanding players and probably our best attacking threats, so it’s hard to put them on the bench. But they’re a good Plan B and we’ve not had that all season. We’ve had a good Plan A and when people have defended well against that I’ve looked to the bench and there’s not been anything there.'”

Coventry City announce that their "defender Jak Hickman has joined Hereford FC on loan. The full-back has agreed a one-month loan deal at Edgar Street, expiring on 13th April 2019. Hickman made his first appearance for the Sky Blues in the Checkatrade Trophy against Forest Green earlier this season, also appearing from the bench in the away game at Cheltenham in the same competition."

According to the Shropshire Star "AFC Telford's goalkeeper Josef Bursik has been called up for the U19 England squad for a trio of U19 Championship Elite Round matches later this month.

Bursik, who is currently on loan from Stoke City, has been performing well for Bucks... The 18 year old stopper will link up with Keith Downing's squad next week...

Unfortunately for Gavin Cowan's men, Bursik is cup-tied for the away clash at Leyton Orient tomorrow afternoon in the FA Trophy semi-final first leg. Meanwhile, ex Shrewsbury defender Dom Smith is available for tomorrow's match, following his recall from Alfreton Town earlier this week."

ANOTHER OLD FOE BITES THE DUST

Hull County Court heard the semi-pro club, who play in the Northern Premier League, said they could only pay a proportion of the outstanding £7,645.25 to Chappelow Sports Turf Limited.

A judge ordered the club had to be wound up over the lack of payment...

Above, Alty take to the field at North Ferriby in 2013.

A club statement said 'Our biggest thank you's are to the supporters who have helped to make this club, arguably, the friendliest in non-league'...

Speaking prior to the hearing at Hull County Court, North Ferriby chairman Carl Chadwick said... 'When I took on the club I was under the impression it was debt free and we just had to survive from sales. The debt has come from before I came to the club and we managed to stay afloat with sponsorship and season ticket sales until five weeks ago when that money ran out. The club simply cannot pay it and we will ask today if we can pay it in installments but if not then it will look like we will be liquidated.'

Mr Chadwick said he had managed to lower the wage bill for a semi-pro team from £8,000-a-week to £1,200-a-week 'by using local lads'.

On this subject, Gainsborough Trinity South Shields are the biggest beneficiaries having had their 0-3 away embarrassment expunged from the history books. Thus they leapfrog Warrington who have lost 6 points and nine goals from the goal difference.

Nantwich were the only top 5 side not to have played Ferriby twice and will now miss out on a home banker by their standards. Buxton leapfrog Scarborough having drawn at home but again they will miss out on another potential three point opportunity at the business end of the season.

Scarborough lose 6 points but remain five points above Hyde, the biggest gainers. United jump two places to eighth but now have no game on the final day...

The North Ferriby United Youth Development, which is a separate company, will continue despite the main club's winding up order" It stated, "The youth section is not affiliated with the club and [they] are separate limited companies. Until a new owner arrives or a club is formed we shall hold the fort and carry on."

The first team "were 19 points adrift at the bottom of the table with only two wins all season... North Ferriby played in the National League as recently as 2016-17. In 2015, they beat Wrexham 5-4 on penalties in the FA Trophy final at Wembley after the game finished 3-3 after extra time".

ALTY TENTH IN ATTENDANCE TABLE

Stockport County comfortably lead the way, they've got a gap of over 1,000 from York City. The Minstermen and Hereford look set to be embroiled in a battle for second-place. Bottom of the pile remain Ashton United who have seen their gates plummet in recent weeks.

National League North Attendance Table:

1. Stockport County 3,783
• 2. York City 2,471
• 3. Hereford FC 2,378
• 4. FC United of Manchester 1,982
• 5. Chester FC 1,805
• 6. Kidderminster Harriers 1,631
• 7. Darlington 1,426
• 8. AFC Telford United 1,360
• 9. Chorley 1,350
• 10: Altrincham 1,250
• 11. Boston United 1,107
• 12. Southport 1,105
• 13. Spennymoor Town 813
• 14. Blyth Spartans 778
• 15. Guiseley 767
• 16. Leamington 694
• 17. Nuneaton Borough 641
• 18. Brackley Town 577
• 19. Alfreton Town 529
• 20. Bradford (Park Avenue) 528
• 21. Curzon Ashton 458
• 22. Ashton United 367

ALTY OLD BOYS

Right: Duncan in his Alty days.

Bean was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for the foul, ten minutes into added time.

Black Cats boss Ross told the club website the setback was 'incredibly disappointing' because of Watmore's previous problems with injuries. Watmore only returned to action in December 2018 after 13 months out with a cruciate knee ligament injury, just six games into his comeback from a previous 10-month spell on the sidelines.

'The positive thing is that it's nothing to do with his knee', Ross added. 'His knee is in great shape and has been for a while. It's a sore one for him and I mean that in both senses; physically and mentally. The likelihood is that Duncan will miss the rest of the season. I said at the time I was disappointed with the tackle and I think you can see the outcome of that because he is looking at eight to 12 weeks out.'"

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The FA has reminded all clubs of our responsibilities when it comes to ensuring the safety of not just those spectators who come to games, but also the safety of all players, match officials and anyone else assisting in the smooth running of the game.

The FA has the power to take disciplinary action for spectators or unauthorised persons encroaching onto the pitch under FA Rule E20(b), which states that no spectators or unauthorised persons are permitted to encroach onto the pitch area, save for reasons of crowd safety. It follows a number of reports recently of incidents in which spectators have run onto the field of play. "

The Shropshire Star tells us that "Boss Gavin Cowan has warned his AFC Telford United charges they will only play against Leyton Orient if they give everything they have in training. The Bucks' chief insists he is not picking the team for the FA Trophy semi-final first leg at Brisbane Road based on reputations.

He is doing so based on who shows the most endeavour on the back of last weekend’s 3-1 defeat to FC United of Manchester, with the squad gathering for what is set to be an intense session..

'I’m a big believer in how people train, and how they’re playing here and now, not reputations or what they’ve done over the course of the season,' said Cowan. 'I want them to be on it. It might be people’s physical fitness, it might be their mindset, it might be that things just aren’t working for them at that moment in time. It gives me food for thought (last weekend’s result), certainly. But even if we win 5-0 and my striker scores a hat-trick but then isn’t at it in training, another striker will come in.

'You have to train as you play, otherwise you don’t play. The lads need to understand, and they do, that I’m a very big believer in training the way you play.'

Goalkeeper Josef Bursik and striker Marcus Dinanga are cup-tied. Midfielder Henry Cowans is out with a knee injury and shot-stopper Andy Wycherley is 50/50 with an eye injury. But Cowan, at least, had no players pick up injuries in the loss to United.

'I was very vocal to all the lads in the last 10 minutes about not making any silly challenges, not jumping into anything and getting sent off', he added".

Also from the Shropshire Star we learn that "Not many exports out of Welsh domestic football have made people stand up and take notice in recent years... but Bucks' skipper Shane Sutton is one of them... The 30-year-old arrived at the New Bucks Head in the summer of 2016 after spending the majority of his career in the Welsh Premier League with Newtown AFC, where he cemented himself as a club legend.

He made the switch across the border and at that time many Telford fans questioned the signing... He was installed as skipper and has virtually played every single game since his arrival, scoring five goals this season as he has led his side into the play-off places and FA Trophy semi-final. The centre-half has shown players who have developed in the Welsh system and made their name can cut it there. [Goalkeeper] Andy Wycherley gained his grounding in Welsh football and now he has performed for the Bucks.

Others have crossed the border and shown the league has quality. Jason Oswell left Newtown in the same month as Sutton, going on to score 20-plus goals at Stockport County and earn a move to Morecambe... The [Welsh] league is usually synonymous with players going the other way, getting their last little chance of glory plying their trade in the league. For some it is the only serious shot at European football they will ever get, so you can’t blame them.

Telford players have in the past have ended up in the league. Tony Gray spent time in Wales, and is now back in England, and the likes of [ex-Alty duo] Wes Baynes and Andy Owens currently turn out across the border. But now it is the case of players coming the other way".

From the National League we learn that "Neil Reynolds says he is determined to build a togetherness at FC United of Manchester but insists it will take time. The Rebels have shown glimpses of their quality this season but remain in the bottom three, three points adrift of safety.

Wins have been hard to come by for Reynolds' men, their latest being just their second this calendar year. A 3-1 win at AFC Telford on Saturday boosted their survival hopes...

'We're in this together', he told the club's website. 'We're all desperate to stay in this league and we're building a squad and a togetherness. You can feel it on the coach, you can feel it in the dressing room. I keep talking about that culture but it takes a long time to get there. It's not an excuse but we're getting there. There's a real trust in that dressing room now.'"

According to Bradford's Telegraph & Argus, "Guiseley will be looking to put their 'chances into the back of the net' as they aim to getting back to winning ways this Saturday when they play Curzon Ashton at Nethermoor. After both clubs saw their matches postponed at the weekend the two sides prepare to face each other once again.

In a close contest a week last Monday, Curzon were 1-0 victors when Lewis Reilly struck midway through the first half. It marked the third consecutive 1-0 loss for joint managers' Marcus Bignot and Russ O’Neill’s side, but it was a much improved performance by the Lions in Greater Manchester.

'It was a good performance, and we didn't get what we deserved,' said O'Neill. 'We just need to make sure when we create chances to put them in the back of the net to come out on the right side of the result... This will be a completely different game'...

New loan signing Lewis Archer, from Hednesford Town, will be in line to make his Lions debut on Saturday. The highly rated 20-year-old striker, who is on loan until the end of the season, has previously attracted interest from Championship side West Bromwich Albion, who invited him for a trial earlier this season.

'Lewis has scored goals in the league below us,' said Guiseley joint manager Russ O'Neill. 'He's really quick and has an eye a goal'. Niall Heaton, who was withdrawn with a head injury just three minutes into the last Curzon Ashton game, could be a doubt going into this clash...

In other news at the club, Akeel Francis and Kwame Boateng have both signed dual registration agreements. Francis arrived at Nethermoor last month and will now link up with academy graduate Luke Hogg at Grantham Town, who has just started a loan spell there. Boateng has joined Farsley Celtic. In addition, goalkeeper Joe Green has signed for Gainsborough Trinity on loan... Green last featured for Guiseley against Barnoldswick Town last month when he was subbed on at half-time."

We learn from the Chester Standard that "Chester midfielder Sean McAllister has reminded his teammates they are playing for their futures at the club as they go in search of an improbable play off push.

The Blues remain five points off the play-off places after winning just three games out of 11 since the New Year with the latest disappointment a 1-1 home draw with struggling Leamington. But despite their poor form, the experienced McAllister, 31, feels Chester are more than capable of finishing the season on a positive note whether that means making the top seven or not.

'I know our away record isn't great but we've got to go to Darlington and win and if we do it's not over until it's over', said the former Sheffield Wednesday and Scunthorpe midfielder. 'One win and all of a sudden you're looking at the league differently because so many of the teams above us have still got to play each other. If you go on a good run and get a bit of confidence you don't know what might happen; you could be going into the play offs on a bit of a high.'

Saturday's draw with Leamington saw McAllister play his first 90 minutes for the club since an injury lay off and despite conceding a late equaliser to the ten men Brakes he said the Blues were now returning to something approaching full strength...

'After the [opposition man's] sending off it was really there for us and we should have done better... I don't know if we switched off but there were about three mistakes in the one goal... But there were lads who needed minutes out there including myself and Akwasi (Asante) so hopefully you start feeling the benefits of that.'

McAllister endured a injury plagued spell at Grimsby having moved there from Scunthorpe in 2016 but injury saw him make just four appearances for the Mariners in two seasons, before Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley handed him the chance to impress at Chester in the hope of securing a long-term deal.

'I don't think anyone is fully contracted for next year,' added McAllister... 'You are playing for your future. I know from experience it's certainly better having an offer there for next season going into the summer because it is a tough world out there when you are out of contract. There are so many players all fighting for the same jobs and I think that's something we've all got to realise. If we don't make the play offs fair dos but we've got give it everything because we're playing for our futures as well.'

Former Chester striker Nathan Brown has joined Liverpool-based Northern Premier League side Marine FC after leaving the Deva last week. Brown, who also had loan spells this season at Ramsbottom United and Colwyn Bay, told Marine's website... 'I am... looking forward to the rest of the season and just playing some games which I haven’t done for a while'".

Meanwhile, Cheshire Live asserts that "Chester FC still intend to make the move to a hybrid model for next season but discussions are ongoing about just how the club will finance the leap.

Following relegation from the National League last season and in the wake of the financial crisis, the Blues opted to make the move to a part-time model in order to maximise the meagre resources at their disposal and make them as competitive as they could be in the National League North this season.

Joint-managers Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley were tasked with ensuring Chester didn’t fall further down the pyramid and making sure that foundations were put in place to make the Blues more of a force in the 2019/2020 season. The Blues board met with Johnson and Morley last month to discuss the prospect of moving to a hybrid model, a model that would see a number of senior and first year players train four days with the rest of the squad made up of part-time players who can only commit to the two days currently.

The idea behind it is that it will enable the managers to increase the contact time they get with the squad, something that will aid the progression of the club’s younger players. But with money remaining tight at the fan-owned Blues the club are exploring different ways that they can make the leap... Key to aiding it will be the involvement of businessman and Blues donor, Stuart Murphy , who remains in dialogue with the football club over the plans for his £1million donation.

Director Andrew Morris said...'The contact hours via a hybrid model will allow the club to push on both on and off the pitch through increased contact time with the players to aid their development and is aligned to our Academy model. The challenge that the club faces is being able to release the resources to enable this shift with the additional costs associated with moving from two sessions a week to four in terms of training facilities and player contracts'...

But with Johnson and Morley not yet sure what model they will be working with and quite how much they will have to spend, plans for recruitment remain on hold.

Johnson last week told the Chronicle 'We know that going full-time on a similar budget to this year isn’t viable but the hybrid model is something that we think will be an improvement for us and something that will enable us to progress as a football club and provide our young players with a pathway too'...

Murphy’s help has already been seen this season, though, after he helped aid the club’s playing budget, with such assistance helping to settle the contracts of Kingsley James and Ross Hannah in the summer as well as facilitating the signing of Akwasi Asante in January on a permanent basis."

Cheshire Live adds that "Darlington have landed midfielder Omar Holness in time for this weekend's clash with Chester FC. The Blues make the long trek north to take on the Quakers at Blackwell Meadows on Saturday...

Darlington have struggled this season and have won just once in their last eight league matches but have been handed a boost ahead of the clash with Chester after sealing a deal to bring in 25-year-old Holness until the end of the season. Twice capped at international level by Jamaica, Holness graduated from the University of Carolina in 2015 and was picked fifth overall in the first round of the MLS (Major League Soccer) draft in America, selected by Real Salt Lake.

He made 18 appearances in the MLS for the Utah outfit before signing for USL (United Soccer League) side Bethlehem Steel at the start of 2018. Holness spent time on trial at League Two side Oldham Athletic this season before penning a deal with Darlington earlier this week. Darlington manager Tommy Wright told the Quakers' official website 'Omar has got a winning mentality, and is the kind of character that we need in the dressing room.'"

The Boston Standard states that "Ryan Qualter has warned Boston United to prepare for an early onslaught as league leaders Chorley arrive at the Jakemans Stadium on Saturday... Defender Qualter believes that if the Pilgrims can weather the early storm they could surprise their guests.

'They’re a big side,' Qualter warned. 'The back three are big boys and they throw balls into the box, you’ve just got to defend that as best you can. Not just the back five, but everyone has to put bodies on the line. If you can see the first 20 minutes out, which we haven’t been great at doing lately, it puts you in a great position.'

Nicky Walker was on target as United drew 1-1 at Chorley in December. 'I think we’ve got to take confidence from the Chorley game away, probably one of our best performances of the season,' Qualter added. 'We were unlucky not to come away with a win. If we get another three points it keeps chalking those games off and the gap (on the top seven) will close.'”

ROBINS v SAINTS: REVERSE FIXTURE

Altrincham moved up to fourth in the league with their win in Northamptonshire when they were facing a Brackley team lacking its leading scorer, James Armson. Altrincham took a fortieth-minute lead. The goal arose from a mistake by the home goalkeeper, Lewis, who failed to hold a shot and the ball ended up with Simon Richman who netted from six yards. But, just a minute later, the scores were level again. The lively Miles got up the right wing and crossed to Adam Walker on the left. His cross from the left was headed home by Glenn Walker.

Above: Simon Richman (8) moves in to score as the ball comes across the face of goal from the right.

Eight minutes after the interval Altrincham scored the deciding goal. Right-back Andy White advanced and cut in from the right before firing a fine, left-footed, low shot past Lewis. After that Altrincham largely controlled the game.

With Owen Dale's loan period terminated, there was a first start for new loanee Kallam Mantack, who had marked his debut the previous week with a goal within three minutes of leaving the subs' bench. Simon Richman continued in midfield with Max Harrop named on the bench.

BRACKLEY TOWN: 1. Danny Lewis, 2. Ellis Myles, 3. Connor Franklin, 4. Shane Byrne, 5. Connor Hall, 6. Gareth Dean (c), 7. Glenn Walker, 8. Sheperd Murombedzi, 9. Lee Ndlovu, 10. Matt Lowe, 11. Adam Walker. Subs: 12. Luke Fairlamb, 14. Daniel Nti, 15. Shaun Jeffers, 16. Mark Noon.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Tony THOMPSON, 2. Andy WHITE, 3. Connor HAMPSON, 4. James JONES, 5. Tom HANNIGAN, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Simon RICHMAN, 9. Jordan HULME, 10. Josh HANCOCK, 11. Kallam MANTACK. Subs: 12. Max HARROP, 14. Dontai GABIDON, 15. Josh LANGLEY, 16. Shaun DENSMORE, 20. Elliot WYNNE.

Mike Garnett's records show the history of previous encounters between the two clubs:

• Home: P4-W2-D0-L2-F5-A8
• Away: P5-W3-D1-L1-F6-A6
• All: P9-W5-D1-L3-F11-A14

A "STEP UP" FOR YORK AGAINST ALTY

His personal accolade was made all the more impressive by the fact that those matches were his first in football for 14 months following knee surgery. But a modest Mirfin has declared that Watson has made the biggest impact at Bootham Crescent, with the ex-Gateshead chief’s efforts also recognised during his first full month with the club. Watson was named National League North Manager of the Month for February as the club climbed from 19th in the table to 12th and Mirfin said 'I set myself a target of five or six games to get back into the swing of things to see how my injury reacted so it’s obviously a nice thing to win something that is voted on by fans.

'But I think everybody has been lifted since the gaffer has come in, according to the lads and what I’ve read. He seems to get more from players and there’s been a massive progression under him...

'Me and Newts (Sean Newton) have got a good partnership and he was playing left-wing back before slotting into the centre very comfortably,' the former Huddersfield defender pointed out. Griff (Kallum Griffiths) has also got a bit of everything and Mokes (Adriano Moke) puts in a shift that maybe goes slightly unnoticed by fans but, from a centre half’s perspective, he makes your life easier by doing a lot of horrible work.

'Jordan (Burrow) has also been the club’s talisman and there’s been a bit more pressure on him than anyone to create and score goals.'

The 6ft 2in sentinel did reason, though, that the end of City’s four-game winning streak, during Saturday’s 1-0 home defeat to play-off contender Altrincham, did suggest that the squad remains a work in progress.

'We were massively disappointed with the result, but more so with the performance,' he admitted. 'Following the run we’d been on and the confidence that it had generated, there was no reason why we should have played like we did. A few of their lads said the game had 0-0 written all over it in the second half and, if we had walked off with that, we would have probably said it was progress but to lose 1-0 probably highlighted the performance more and the gaffer will try and work out why we were so disappointing.

'I don’t think it was a massive step back, but it probably did demonstrate that there’s more work to be done than perhaps the previous four games had suggested. We’ve now got to make sure that it was only a blip and we can build on what we were doing before.'

Josh Hancock’s 81st-minute goal was only the second in six hours of football that has been conceded with Mirfin and Newton as a defensive duo and the former Championship campaigner argued it could have been avoided.

'We maybe got sucked across to the ball, rather than knowing where their man was and he had too much space and time in our box,' Mirfin explained.

Defeat meant the Minstermen have now lost seven of their last eight meetings against teams currently in the division’s top-seven positions and Mirfin now wants to see an improvement in that record with Spennymoor, Bradford Park Avenue and Telford still to play in the final three fixtures of the campaign.

'It was a little bit of a step up,' he said of the Altrincham contest. 'They are one of the few teams who try and play like they do at this level and it was a different style to what I have been playing against since coming here, but we want to know we can compete against top-seven teams and that’s our focus in the remaining games'...

Mirfin was also pleased to receive an immediate recall to the first XI after sitting out the 1-0 win at Leamington, having suffered the worst facial wound of his career. 'The impact came on the back of their player’s head and I needed 31 stitches to limit the scarring really,' he pointed out. 'When I got to hospital, they had to pick some of their player’s hairs out of my lip before sewing it up. It was probably the worst facial injury I have had. I’ve had a couple of broken noses, but you crack on with them after shoving a bit of cotton wool up there'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The 20-year-old temporarily lost sight in his left eye after a collision with Jonathan Wafula and has been resting up since. And if he does not recover in time for Saturday's trip to Brisbane Road, boss Gavin Cowan will be forced into the emergency loan market. That is because the other Bucks shot-stopper, Josef Bursik is ineligible for the competition having played for Hednesford Town in it earlier this season."

Boston United "have signed Bradford City striker Tom Clare on loan until the end of the season. The towering 19-year-old centre forward has linked up with the Pilgrims on a youth loan arrangement and is eligible to make his United debut against Chorley on Saturday.

The six-foot, six-inch attacker joined the Bantams last summer having spent his formative years in the Barnsley youth system!"

And the Boston Standard adds that manager "Craig Elliott doesn’t care if his Boston United side are entertainers. He’d rather they were winners. In a candid interview, the Boston United manager admitted that he has been too concerned with attempting to build a crowd-pleasing side since moving to the Jakemans Stadium....

'I’ve learnt loads in the past 12 months, about this league really. About playing at home,' said Elliott. 'I think sometimes you do buy into trying to entertain the fans. It’s not the right way. As much as any criticism that comes, it’s about winning games of football.'

Elliott told The Standard that creating a free-flowing, attacking side was his plan when moving to Boston from Shaw Lane, with whom he won three promotions in four seasons.

'At Shaw Lane the team were so strong defensively, but not the prettiest on the eye,' he added. 'We used to grind teams down. The amount of times people used to say "Oh, they’re not very good", but we won 1-0. That was the reason, because we were so strong. When I first came in I felt I couldn’t create a team like I did at Shaw Lane as it wouldn’t appease the fans.

'But at the end of the day you’ve got to be strong about that. That’s me learning.'

United have picked up 21 points from 17 home league games this season, compared to 27 points from 17 fixtures on the road, where the side has played more defensively..

'I’ve talked to other managers, at Bradford and other teams. They don’t have to entertain fans like we do,' he added. 'It’s about blanking that out and playing more defensive at home. We did it against FC United. We started strong and defensive and added the talent later on. It worked, so from that perspective I’ve learnt a lot.'"

From Blackburn Rovers comes confirmation that "Rovers youngsters Lewis Hardcastle and Matty Platt have extended their loan deals with Barrow and Southport respectively... As for Platt, he will remain at Southport until Monday 29th April, following some impressive displays for the Sandgrounders since moving to Haig Avenue in February.

Platt previously had a loan spell with Barrow during the 2016-17 season and spent the first half of the current campaign on loan at Accrington Stanley, but was recalled by Rovers in January after making just five appearances for John Coleman's side, all in the cup competitions."

Guiseley report that "The Lions return to Nethermoor on Saturday with Curzon Ashton the opponents for the second time in as many games. Following both clubs seeing their matches postponed at the weekend the two sides prepare to face each other once again.

In a close contest last Monday night Curzon were 1-0 victors when Lewis Reilly struck midway through the first half. It marked the third consecutive 1-0 loss for Marcus Bignot and Russ O’Neill’s side but there was a much improved performance in Greater Manchester.

Niall Heaton was withdrawn with a head injury just three minutes into the game and he could be a doubt going into this clash. New loan signing Lewis Archer will be in line to make his Lions debut on Saturday.

Curzon Ashton have been in good form since the start of 2019 only tasting defeat twice, drawing once and winning eight times in all competitions.

Joint First Team Manager Marcus Bignot was pleased with the improvement in the performance at Curzon last time out 'To have a zero in the for column is hard to take but there was loads of positives, the performance, the goal scoring opportunities we created and the football we played. The away supporters were clapping us off at the end, it shows every man put in a really good performance, you can see the football we can play. We didn’t deserve to be on the losing end with that performance, no chance.' When asked about the acquisition of Dylan Barkers, who made his debut at The Tameside Stadium, Bignot said 'We wanted to bring some enthusiasm, athleticism, energy and pace to get the reins off them a bit. The boys are giving everything but the results haven’t gone the way we wanted as late. Dylan is down with me at Solihull College and part of the U21s' academy programme at Solihull Moors.'

Marcus was also keen to point out the role the fans have to play in the coming weeks. 'We need to be together from top to bottom, side by side. We will remember games like this, weeks like this because when we do come through this and we do move onwards and upwards you look back and see who was there for you. To hear our fans clapping us off the players gave them something to get behind from the first minute to the last'".

Off the field, Stockport County announce that "Manager Jim Gannon has signed an improved and extended contract to remain at Edgeley Park until the summer of 2021. Jim said 'I’m really pleased to have signed this extension but I am more pleased that the board believes in what we are trying to achieve at the club. We have been working tirelessly to professionalise every aspect of the football club and I’m fully committed to continuing that work.

'We’re in the middle of our most successful season since I returned to Edgeley Park and I have great faith in the direction of travel which the club is taking, so I was very happy to commit to this new deal. It also gives the players confidence when discussing their own futures to know that the manager is in place for the foreseeable future.'

County Chairman Richard Park said... 'We’ve been working hard to create a stable and sustainable future for our club and Jim is a huge part of that commitment... Jim shares our ambition to return the club to the Football League, and it makes sense to offer a contract to someone who has the club at heart and is responsible for a marked improvement in results'.

Jim Gannon, 50, is in his third stint as manager of County having returned to the club in January 2016... Earlier this month he equalled an 82-year-old record for the club’s longest unbeaten league run in a single season, 16 games, as he led County to the top of the National League North table.

He is also the club’s longest-serving manager of all-time, having overtaken Fred Stewart for the number of games in charge, more than 430 and still counting".

CHESHIRE SENIOR CUP

"Nantwich Town booked their place into a third consecutive Cheshire Senior Cup Final with a convincing 3-0 win over National League North high flyers Stockport County on Tuesday night at The Weaver Stadium. Goals from Jamie Morgan, Joel Stair and substitute Callum Saunders saw the Dabbers overcome tricky weather conditions and higher ranked opposition for the third time in this season’s competition to storm into a final against Runcorn Linnets...

[Ex-Alty loanee] Nyal Bell was proving to be the main threat for Stockport and made it a difficult first half for the Dabbers full backs, breaking the offside trap to test Jaaskelainen who turned his shot behind... Just as it was looking like the sides would go in goalless at the break, Sean Cooke fired a wonderful effort from distance which came back off the inside of the post however Morgan was on hand to turn in the rebound and give Nantwich a 1-0 lead.

It was an electric start to the second half for the Dabbers who, with the wind now in their favour, took advantage almost immediately as a Cooke corner deceived Ormson in the Stockport goal and was fired home by Stair inside the six-yard box on 48 minutes.

The visitors were struggling to adapt to the conditions and almost conceded again... Chances were sparse for Stockport in the second half... The Dabbers had the chance to kill the tie off on the hour following a lovely move which ended with Fuller being tripped in the box and referee Peter Gibbons pointing to the spot. Ormson, who impressed throughout, stepped up to keep out Toby Mullarkey’s spot kick which was at a comfortable height.

Heading into the final 20 minutes, a foul by Holt on James Lawrie in a good area just outside the box gave Nantwich another decent opportunity to put the game beyond Stockport, however Cooke’s strike on target was straight down the throat of Ormson.

With an attendance of 375 braving the cold, the Dabbers rewarded them with an excellently worked third. Some flowing football saw Cooke play in substitute Saunders, meeting the striker’s run perfectly before he slotted into the bottom right corner...

Stockport County: Ian Ormson, Tom Whitty, Scott Duxbury (Sajjad Elhassan 73’), Paul Turnbull (c), Jordan Downing, Lewis Baines, Josh Robinson, Will Holt, Frank Mulhern, Matty Warburton (Szymon Czubik 56’), Nyal Bell (Max Greenhaugh 61’) Subs not used: Dane Smith (GK), Charlie Scott".

And Stockport Vital adds that "As disappointing as the result is for County, and their decent sized following in a crowd nearing 400, it must be said that Town thoroughly deserved their win...

It wasn’t that County were not ‘up for it’ but their mix of youngsters and players with first team experience, faced with testing conditions, never really took the initiative from Dave Cooke’s side ... For County it is now preparation for another Semi Final against National Premier side AFC Fylde starting with the away leg this Saturday".

CHESHIRE NEWS

Alan has been at the club since 1995... They left the North West Counties League and progressed all the way up to Conference North, before the club took the decision to step down into the West Cheshire League. Now, with the Motormen making the move back to our league for the first time since 2000, Alan is back on familiar ground.

'Next season we will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of winning the North West Counties League, in 1999-2000, and were promoted into the Unibond League as it was then', said Alan. 'It was a great season as we won the Floodlit Trophy and got to the semi-finals of the FA Vase, as well as winning the league... It's amazing to see people at clubs, real club stalwarts, who are still there now'.

After being promoted in 2000, the club progressed through the leagues right up to Conference North, staying there for ten seasons... They were heady days, but Alan explained, the club eventually decided that they couldn't continue to support a team playing at that level.

'We were punching above our weight and in comparison to the other clubs at Conference North level, we had a miniscule budget available to the manager. But by the skin of our teeth, we managed to stay in there for a number of years. We were losing money year on year, to the point where had it not been for our amazing FA Cup run in 2002, when we beat QPR at Loftus Road, we wouldn't have been able to sustain a team at Conference North level.

'Without the TV money that came from that run, we couldn't have done it otherwise for as long as we did. We just had to eventually say, we can't continue like this, we can't keep losing money otherwise we'll finish up bankrupt, and we didn't want that. We had to come out of the Conference North and dropped all the way down to the West Cheshire League in 2014.

'We did discuss even then that it might be worth dropping into the North West Counties League, but we decided not to, we wanted to consolidate so we went into the West Cheshire League'...

So, now they are back and playing in the First Division South, what has Alan made of the season so far?... 'Our manager Mick McGraa knows what the league is always about, he brought in players who were with him at Cammell Laird 1907, along with one or two others from elsewhere and a few who were at the club last season, so it's probably about 85% of the team that is new...

'The facilities we have at the club are probably among the best at Division One level in this league. We have got two floodlit full-size all-weather pitches, as well as the main stadium, and everything is geared to move up again. We have a put a plan together, and we would be looking to move up again in future, perhaps up the Evo-Stik League level. That's the target we would like to achieve over perhaps the next 4-5 years, which will obviously take two promotions, but that is where we would like to be'".

BRACKLEY'S LAST VISIT

Above: Jake Moult battles for possession against Brackley Town in the 2017 match at Moss Lane.

In mitigation, Alty had six players (Alan Goodall, John Cyrus, Kyle Brownhill, Tom Hannigan, John Cyrus and Sean Miller) out injured and Chris Lynch was also unavailable, following his father's death. On the positive side, youth teamer Darius Palma made his first league start, following his substitute appearance away at Darlington, last month. Shaun Densmore and Clayton McDonald both returned to the squad after several months' absence, the former through injury and the latter mainly due to his loan to Droylsden.

Just after the half-hour mark, full-back McWilliams was stranded in the opposition half and Glenn Walker got free on the right. His low cross was easily converted from close range by Diggin. Altrincham almost levelled six minutes later when a fine move ended as Lawrie played in Reeves but keeper Walker made a superb one-handed save.

The second half was a disappointing affair for Altrincham. Twelve minutes from time, Micah Evans misheaded a kick by goalkeeper Stuart Tomlinson and the ball ran free for the unmarked substitute Hempenstall. He beat Tomlinson with a well-judged lob from left of goal. In added time Ndlovu drove a 20-yarder past Tomlinson to make it 3-0 before Evans netted a consolation goal in the third added minute. He tapped in after Andy Owens had relayed a McWilliams cross to him from the left.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart Tomlinson, 2. Sam Patterson, 3. Andy McWilliams, 4. Laurence Taylor, 5. Sam Heathcote, 6. Jake Moult (capt), 7. Simon Richman, 8. James Lawrie, 9. Darius Palma, 10. Damian Reeves, 11. Nicky Clee. Subs: 12. Andy Owens, 14. Shaun Densmore, 15. Clayton McDonald, 16. Micah Evans, 20. Tim Deasy

BRACKLEY TOWN: 1. Laurie Walker, 2. James Clifton, 3. Alex Gudger, 4. Shane Byrne, 5. Luke Graham, 6. Gareth Dean (c), 7. Glenn Walker, 8. James Armson, 9. David Moyo, 10. Steve Diggin, 11. Adam Walker. Subs: 12. Ellis Myles, 14. Matt Lowe, 15. Lee Ndlovu, 16. Jordan Gough, 17. Jordan Hempenstall.

Mike Garnett's records tell us that our full record against Brackley Town is...

• At home: P4-W2-D0-L2-F5-A8
• Away: P4-W3-D1-L1-F6-A6
• All: P8-W5-D1-L2-F11-A14

MIDWEEK GAMES BOTH POSTPONED

• Hereford FC P-P Brackley Town
• Spennymoor Town P-P Bradford (Park Avenue)

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

'The Board of Directors of Darlington FC acknowledge fans’ frustrations at the club’s current league position. Results so far this season have failed to live up to expectations, and the board are under no illusions regarding the strength of feeling amongst sections of our support... The management team are working hard to strengthen the playing squad before the window closes.

'The board are also aware that supporters’ frustration has been amplified by a lack of communication on certain issues. With this in mind, we will arrange another Netcafé as soon as we can to give everyone a chance to ask questions... We are also planning towards a Fans’ Forum at the end of the season when we can discuss matters further and discuss our plans for next season...

'Until then, we hope that everybody will continue to get behind the management team and players as they look to pick up some important points in the coming weeks'".

Meanwhile, Darlington "Wing back Williams Kokolo has today been recalled from his work experience loan by Sunderland. He made his debut in the game at Chorley in December, and started six games for us, with another three as a substitute".

NL Daily reports that "Buxton have signed Jamie Reed and John Roberts on a dual registration basis. The pair link up with the Bucks from Ashton United. Reed is a 31-year-old striker who played for Wrexham in the EFL before spells with a number of Welsh clubs, as well as stints with York City and Chester along the way.

Roberts, meanwhile, is a 20-year-old midfielder who was previously with Macclesfield Town.. Buxton are five points off the last play-off place with eight games of the league season remaining."

From NL Daily we learn that "A meeting of potential Nuneaton Borough investors was held at Liberty Way yesterday, organised by Acting Chairman [and manager], Jimmy Ginnelly.

Ginnelly said 'It’s been well documented that the football club is very close to going out of business. A winding-up order has been issued by HMRC and there are other creditors who have sent debt collection agency to our door. We’re fighting fires on a daily basis but, despite this, the people present have shown a real desire and commitment to tackle the serious problems we are facing and save the Boro’. It was a positive meeting and we are now putting a plan together and I hope it will take us out of the worrying situation we’re in.

'It will not be easy, but we’re going to give it a go. These discussions are ongoing and a further statement will be issued in due course'".

On the pitch Nuneaton Borough "qualified for the Birmingham Senior Cup final with a hard-fought 2-1 win against Stourbridge. Well-taken goals from Mike Calveley and Ryan Edmunds either side of half-time saw the away side claim a deserved victory, despite also missing a penalty... But Boro held on to claim a deserved win and progress to the cup final, where some silverware could be won at the end of what has been a tough season."

From Devon Live comes news that "Exeter City have recalled Australian defender Jimmy Oates with manager Matt Taylor wanting to give himself as many playing options as posisble. The 27-year-old, who was born in Sydney, joined the Grecians in the summer from Hereford FC after impressing in a trial under new manager Matt Taylor.

He made six appearances for the club, mostly in the Checkatrade Trophy, but returned to Hereford in a loan deal during the January transfer window, where he has impressed in seven outings for the Bulls.

Head Coach, Marc Richards said 'It’s obviously disappointing for us to lose someone of Jimmy’s quality, he has done a great job since coming back on loan'".

From Bermuda's Royal Gazette we learn that "Kacy Milan Butterfield came on as a second-half substitute in Kidderminster Harriers’ 3-0 defeat away to Chorley in the National League North at the weekend.

Butterfield, 21, who sighed an 18-month contract with Kidderminster last month, came on in the 65th minute for Ed Williams, with the visiting side already trailing by three goals... Butterfield, a Bermuda midfielder, has made nine appearances for Kidderminster this season".

We learn from the Chester Standard that "Chester joint boss Anthony Johnson has admitted his side are a long way from getting the six wins he believes will see the Blues make the National League North play offs.

Chester remain five points off the play-off places despite an awful run of form that has seen them win just three games out of 11 since the New Year with the latest disappointment a 1-1 home draw with struggling Leamington.

And with only eight games of the season left for the Blues to salvage something from the campaign, time is running out for Johnson and co-manager Bernard Johnson if they want to spark an improbable run into the league's top seven.

'The games to come are never not tough,' said Johnson, who takes his side to Darlington next Saturday. 'It doesn't matter if we're playing FC United or Ashton or Nuneaton or the other teams at the bottom, we would never say they aren't tough games. It's a respect thing but if you don't want to scrap and do what Leamington did to us you're not going to get the maximum points and the basics that we have driven into the lads all season long from minute one have gone missing.'

Johnson already has one eye on what will happen next season whatever the outcome of the next month and he urged the players to remember that in the campaign's remaining games.

'This almost feels like a feel-out season for the group where we're feeling what they're about,' he said. 'If we get in the play-offs it's absolutely amazing but what we don't want this season to be is a waste. We don't want to waste a year by seeing the next eight games out and finishing 12th, 13th or 14th. We need to start putting some foundations down for next year because it doesn't feel like it did a few months back where things were cohesive and there were patterns. There are patterns now but they're the wrong type.

'Six wins will get us into the play-offs. Next Saturday Alty play Brackley, Telford don't play as they are in the FA Trophy, they don't play again the week after. So mathematically all these teams have got to play each other; we've got to play Brackley. But (six wins) was on the premise that we beat Leamington. It doesn't change the fact that I think six wins or 18 more points will get you in there, but you can only base that on the last game that you've watched or the week before, which was Alty. We don't look like we're going to win six games. The group looks mentally weak, fragile and lacks leadership.

'We have one eye on next season and one eye on the play offs - we want to get to the play offs and that's our goal short term goal and hopefully if we do, a large part of the group will play a part next year, but after today's result we're nowhere near.'"

Chester FC "takes a close look at the numbers game so far this season in the National League North…

Blues on-loan Salford City forward Anthony Dudley leads the scoring charts for the Blues in the league with 11 goals this term... Akwasi Asante has sped into second spot on the scoring charts with seven goals in just six matches. The Leamington game on Saturday is the first time the striker has failed to score in a Chester shirt! Dan Mooney has six goals and Craig Mahon and Gary Roberts are both locked on four...

Blues’ explosive winger Daniel Mooney is ahead on the assist charts in the National League North. The Fleetwood loanee has set up nine goals this season from out wide, which is nicely accompanied by his six goals. Chester FC’s leading appearance holder Craig Mahon is next up with six assists...

Goalkeeper Grant Shenton is the only player to have featured in every minute of the National League North campaign this season. The Blues have ten clean sheets during 2018/19...

The Blues have had 15 different goalscorers in the National League North this season...

It’s no secret the Blues have found it tougher on the road this season than they have at the Deva. In fact, you’d say that the Swansway Chester Stadium has been a fortress this term. They sit joint second in the NLN home table, with just two defeats this season against Altrincham and Curzon Ashton. They average more than two goals a game, with 35 strikes in 17 matches. Only league leaders Chorley have picked up more home points this term.

However, away from home has been the Achilles heel in 2018/19. Only bottom of the table Nuneaton Borough are worse travellers. The Blues have just three wins from 17 this term on the road. However, all the away victories have come with the added bonus of a clean sheet!"

"AFC Telford United are delighted to announce a new partnership with kit manufacturer Joma for the 2019/20 season. Joma will become the club’s exclusive sportswear provider... The Spanish company will provide the club with a new home, away & third kit next season as well as training and leisurewear for the supporters...

Ian Ralph, Joma Brand Manager, said that “Joma Sport in collaboration with its Shropshire distributor Fortis Sporting Solutions, are delighted to announce a three-year agreement, as kit and sportswear supplier to AFC Telford United. The deal will see the release of 3 new kits, of which the home shirt will include a fans vote to decide their favourite'...

Chairman Andy Pryce added, 'After another frustrating season with kit manufacturers... we are excited to be sourcing a new kit deal with manufacture Joma. We have held some brilliant discussions with Joma and we are delighted with the kit options for the supporters to select from for the forthcoming season'".

INS AND OUTS AT ALTY

As for the latest recruit, Crewe Vital Football reported that "Crewe Alexandra have announced that young defender Billy Sass-Davies has joined Altrincham on loan until the end of the season, making his debut as a second-half substitute in their 1-0 victory at York City.

Right: Billy Sass-Davies.

Sass-Davies, 19, has spent the last 6 weeks on loan at Alty’s fellow National League North side FC United of Manchester and has also spent time over the past year at Colwyn Bay and Leek Town, scoring his first senior goal for the latter. He also made his first team debut last season against Newcastle United’s Under-21 team in the EFL Trophy having been on the bench for the first 5 games of the season.

He has been capped 3 times by Wales at Under-19 level, all of which came last season.

What should Alty expect from their new signing?

Billy is a young central defender who will benefit from playing under Phil Parkinson alongside the experience of Ben Harrison and Andy White, the latter of which came through the Alex academy."

All of this season's twenty league debutants have got onto to the pitch, either as a starter or a used substitute, except for Ben Elliott, Josh Langley and Charlie Scott who have all featured in one or more matchday squads for league games but have not got off the bench in those fixtures.

The 20 players in question include 9 loanees:

1. CEESAY, Yusifu. Current loanee from Blackpool. League appearances to date 5(+1), 1 goal.
2. DALE, Owen. Loanee from Crewe Alexandra. League appearances 10(+2), 3 goals.
3. DANIELS, Brendon. Loanee from Port Vale. League appearances 4(+3), 0 goals.
4. HEMMINGS, Ashley. Loanee from AFC Fylde. League appearances 3(+1), 2 goals.
5. LANGLEY, Josh. Loanee from Southport. League appearances 0 but named in squad.
6. PIGGOTT, Joe. Current loanee from Wigan Athletic. League appearances to date 6(+0), 4 goals
7. SANG, Chris. Loanee from Bury. League appearances 1(+4), 0 goals.
8. SASS-DAVIES, Billy. Current loanee from Crewe Alexandra. League appearances 1(+0), 0 goals.
9. WATERSTON, Nathan. Loanee from Barrow. League appearances 0(+2), 0 goals.

The other eleven league-match debutants in 2018-19 are listed below. When new recruit Matthew Chadwick regains fitness he will need to be added to the following list of debutants in this season's league programme.

Right: Steven Drench.

1. DOLAN, Callum. League appearances to date. 0(+2), 0 goals. Still at Altrincham.
2. DOWNING, Bay. League appearances 0(+2), 0 goals. Moved to Salisbury FC.
3. DRENCH, Steven. League appearances to date 3. Still at Altrincham.
4. ELLIOTT, Ben. League appearances to date 0 but named in squad. Youth/reserve graduate, still at Altrincham.
5. FAWNS, Mason. League appearances 0(+2), 0 goals. Playing for Trafford FC.
6. GABIDON, Dontai. League appearances to date 0(+1), 0 goals. Youth/reserve graduate, still at Altrincham.
7. GOULDING, Liam. League appearances 4(+2), 1 goal. Moved to Ashton United.
8. HARRIS, Callum. League appearances 0(+1), 0 goals. Moved to Ashton United.
9. MANTACK, Kallum. League appearances 3(+2), 0 goals. Moved to Ashton United.
10. SCOTT, Charlie. League appearances 0 but named in squad. Moved to Newcastle Town.
11. WYNNE, Elliot. League appearances to date 9. Still at Altrincham.

In addition to a number of the debutants listed above, one established squad member, striker Tom Peers, left the club during the current season. Tom joined FC United of Manchester.

NEXT OPPONENTS: BRACKLEY TOWN

In advance of tonight's match at Edgar Street, Brackley Town informed us that "Kevin Wilkin’s side travels to Hereford on Tuesday evening...

Saints beat leaders Stockport County on Saturday to continue a fine run of form. 8 wins in 9 league games have included 5 clean-sheets with 18 goals scored and just 4 conceded as Brackley have hit 4th spot fighting off fierce competition from a clutch of clubs just below. A real strength has been the spread of goal scorers. In those 9 games, no fewer than 8 players shared the 18 goals with Carl Baker top scoring with five. Overall Lee Ndlovu tops Brackley’s scoring charts with a season’s tally of 19.

Speaking after Saturday’s win against Stockport, Kevin Wilkin was quick to emphasise the importance of the Hereford fixture in maintaining his side’s play-off chances. 'We have to bring ourselves back down to earth after this terrific win because we have a tough game ahead on Tuesday at Hereford. We have some bumps and bruises and two left-backs who look like they will be out so that creates a bit of an issue and a problem for us.

'But, as we have all season, we will not moan and groan about it. We will get on with it and deal with it and do the very best that we can. So credit to the players. Hereford also had a great result and we know it’s a mightily tough place to go. We understand that and respect that but we are in decent form at the moment and hopefully we can continue that.'

Hereford themselves have hit strong form lifting themselves clear of any lingering relegation worries. The Bulls have lost just twice in 2019, are unbeaten in five games and staged a remarkable come-back on Saturday overcoming a 0-2 half-time deficit to win 4-2 against Darlington in front of 2294 spectators".

YORK GAME

York City report how "Josh Hancock's late goal ended City's bid for a fifth consecutive victory and gave Altrincham a league double...

The Minstermen had been seeking a fifth straight win to maintain their climb towards the play-off zone. Defeat, however, leaves the club nine points adrift of seventh spot with eight games remaining... Goalscoring chances were thin on the ground in the first half although both sides missed gilt-edged opportunities to break the deadlock...

The introduction of Jon Parkin for the final 30 minutes failed to bring about a goal although the veteran striker did have a decent effort ruled out for pushing his marker off the ball on the edge of the penalty area.

Altrincham midfielder Hancock settled the contest in the 81st minute with a spectacular strike past City goalkeeper Adam Bartlett. Hancock, who also scored twice in November's 3-0 defeat Moss at Lane, collected a low cross from John Johnston on the edge of the box and flicked the ball up before shooting into the top corner".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

• Goalkeeper: Daniel Lewis (Brackley)
• Defenders: Conor Branson (Bradford (Park Avenue), Adam Blakeman (Chorley), Ellis Myles (Brackley), Luke Shiels (Alfreton)
• Midfielders: Kyle Finn (Hereford FC), Jack Banister (FC United of Manchester), Gary Roberts (Chester FC), Sean Williams (Altrincham)
• Strikers: Josh Wilson (Chorley), Gavin Allott (Boston)
• Substitutes: Ryan Edmunds (Nuneaton Borough), Kurt Willoughby (FC United of Manchester), Ash Palmer (Stockport County), Josh Hancock (Altrincham), Tom Owen-Evans (Hereford)
• Manager of the Weekend: Neil Reynolds (FC United of Manchester). "Talk about pulling out a massive result when you need one! It may only be the Rebels' second win since early-December but they won't care a jot after downing high-fliers AFC Telford United to boost their survival hopes".

The National League reports that "Marc Richards heaped praise on Hereford super-sub Kyle Finn after he inspired the Bulls' comeback win against Darlington. The Edgar Street crowd must have been fearing the worst when the home side went in 2-0 down at the break.

But an incredible second-half display saw them snatch the spoils from the Quakers and claim a priceless 4-2 victory. And Richards was quick to praise the impact of Finn from the bench.

'It’s exactly the reaction we want from somebody who hasn’t been playing and starting regularly,' he told the club's video service. 'To come off the bench and have such an impact it changes the game, it’s great. I’m just really glad he could have that end product to his game that he did have when he first came. He stuttered a little bit and performance levels weren’t where they need to be but he’s just shown us what he can do...

'First-half, they weren’t anywhere near where they have been in recent weeks, but I think you saw in the second-half where these boys can get to in terms of what they can produce,' he said. 'It just shows what the boys can do when they get their performance levels right because second-half we managed to put four goals past a pretty decent team.'"

Hereford FC add that "Having waited 35 days for a home game, we now face our second in just three days as we play host to [ALty's next opponents] Brackley Town on Tuesday evening. We go into the game in good spirits following Saturday’s victory over Darlington... The victory makes it five games unbeaten as we move nine points clear of the bottom three, with a game in hand...

There were a number of sub-plots to Saturday’s game with the main one being Lance Smith’s return to action following a niggling ankle injury. He marked the occasion by getting his name on the scoresheet with our fourth goal in the closing stages. Meanwhile Kyle Finn came off the bench to devastating effect as he tore our north-east opponents apart during the second period.

'I felt really good when I came on,' admitted Finn. 'It opened up for us in that second half and once the first goal went in, we just knew that we were going to win the game. We gave it a real go and it shows that we have the players here to really be able to push on. It also helps playing in front of such a passionate crowd and they certainly played their part at the weekend'...

Whilst we were celebrating at the final whistle on Saturday, so too were Brackley Town as they chalked up a 1-0 home triumph over high-flying Stockport County courtesy of Lee Ndlovu’s 76th minute winner. It means that they have won ten of their last 12 games in all competitions, including a 3-1 success here at Edgar Street in the Buildbase FA Trophy in January...

Kevin Wilkin’s side sit fourth in the table with 57 points from their 33 League games. They have won six of their 16 League games on enemy territory and, having finished seventh and third in the last two seasons, they are once more very much part of the leading pack and have been so throughout the campaign."

"An emphatic FC United won 3-1 at promotion chasing AFC Telford United on Saturday afternoon to leapfrog Ashton United and move to third from bottom, just three points behind Guiseley. Neil Reynolds again had to shuffle his pack with Bob Harris and Dale Whitham injured and Billy Sass-Davies leaving the club.

Zehn Mohammed stepped in back into the side with Jack Banister and Mike Donohue starting the game, Tom Peers and Chris Sharpe dropping to the bench and new signing Dominic McHale making his debut at a ground where FC had never even taken the lead before today, never mind actually won a game.

It was Telford who started the game on the front foot... FC did look dangerous on the break... As the half wore on, FC came into their own and started to create chances...

On 35 minutes, [there was] a full length of the pitch move, started with Mohammed, who swept a ball out to Banister. He crossed low to McHale who finished superbly to cap his debut with a goal and making up for scoring the winner for Ashton at Broadhurst Park in August... Banister somehow headed a Willoughby cross against the bar from point blank range and in first half injury time, a loose Telford pass played in Donohue who took his time to try and place the ball and saw his shot saved for a corner.

It is a fact that FC hadn’t scored a goal all season between the 46th and 60th minute but, thankfully, this hoodoo was finally put to bed on 53 minutes when Mohammed headed the ball clear and found Banister who broke at pace, he found Willoughby who cut inside and finished with aplomb... On 61 minutes, the lead was increased when another good move down the left saw Banister pull the ball back to sub Peers who sidefooted home. Telford were being reduced to long range shots from Theo Streete...

In injury time FC hit the woodwork again when Louis Myers ran from his own half and rattled a shot off the post. The Bucks did pull a goal back when Lynch fouled Daniel Udoh in the box. Ellis Deeney, brother of Watford’s Troy, stepped up and slotted the penalty home well but it was in vain as FC saw time out to collect three vital points in a game that without exaggeration they could have won by 6 or 7 goals...

Zehn Mohammed stood out as the star performer not missing a header all afternoon, defending strongly when needed and setting up moves for two of the three goals."

At Darlington, "This Saturday’s home game with Chester has been designated as Retro Day, and we want fans to turn up for their game in their old shirts and scarves! There have been some memorable (and not-so-memorable) shirts in the past, so why not dig them out and wear them this Saturday – and win one of three prizes!

• A season ticket for 2019-20
• A table for four in hospitality for a game of your choice next season
• A 2019-20 home shirt

Our photographers will be walking around the ground,... All the images will be put in a hat, and three images chosen."

Bradford (Park Avenue) report that "Saturday’s impressive hard-fought win over Ashton United mean Mark Bower’s side made it five games unbeaten as their impressive turnaround from the beginning of the year continued.

Next up is a trip up north to face a very good Spennymoor Town side in what promises to be a crunch promotion clash...

Goals from Conor Branson and Jamie Spencer secured a third win in five games for Bradford, with Spennymoor missing a game week due to their postponement against Bradford’s Yorkshire rivals, Guiseley.

The last game Tuesday’s hosts did play was against Southport, where they secured a point after going one-nil down with a late penalty from the league’s top goalscorer, Glen Taylor.

Spennymoor’s season has been an impressive one. They boast the third best defence in the league, as well as being the league’s second highest goalscorers... A win could see Bradford go as high as joint-third but, despite the points tally, Spennymoor’s goal difference will help them stay above Bower’s side whatever the result on Tuesday night."

CLEAN SHEETS

Above, Tony Thompson punches clear at York last Saturday. The 1-0 win at Bootham Crescent was the eighth clean sheet of Altrincham's league campaign, with the previous seven occurring as follows:

• Game 6: Away v Darlington 3-0
• Game 13: Home v Ashton United 3-0
• Game 14: Home v Nuneaton Town 4-0
• Game 17: Home v York City 3-0
• Game 26: Home v Southport 1-0
• Game 31: Away v Curzon Ashton 6-0
• Game 32: Home v Chester FC 4-0

YORK'S POST-MORTEM

Saturday’s 1-0 home defeat to Altrincham means the Minstermen have scored just seven goals in 11 meetings with clubs currently occupying the automatic promotion and play-off spots.

Second-bottom Ashton, meanwhile, have managed six in the same number of fixtures while Hereford’s paltry haul of five might be mitigated somewhat by the fact that they have only played nine matches against the division’s leading lights so far.

To put City’s return into some sort of context, it is matched by a Nuneaton team now 14 points adrift at the bottom of the table and with just one win in their last 25 contests, while the likes of Blyth (20 goals), Darlington (19), Leamington (17) and FC United of Manchester (17), all below the Bootham Crescent outfit in the standings, have had much more joy breaching the same defences in corresponding fixtures.

The blank scoresheet against Alty also represented the fifth time the Minstermen have failed to net against the highest-placed teams in the division. During those 11 matches, 17-goal top scorer Jordan Burrow is yet to score in open play, both of his strikes coming from the penalty spot. Otherwise, Macaulay Langstaff, Alex Kempster, Adriano Moke, Sean Newton and Wes York have all hit the target once apiece.

During his short tenure, City chief Steve Watson has proved himself adept at identifying and addressing problems, with his well-drilled team once more restricting the number of shots Adam Bartlett faced against the league’s most potent away strikeforce. Two goals have now been conceded in the last five matches, compared to the dozen shipped in the previous quintet of fixtures.

But, against those teams targeting fifth-tier football next term, City still appear to lack a little inspiration in the final third of the pitch. Against Altrincham, the front three of York, Burrow and Kemspter lacked little in graft, but were found wanting for the kind of craft that saw Josh Hancock conjure up an 81st-minute winner to decide this tight contest.

City would end the game having only mustered two meaningful attacks and Watson will now be looking closely at his side’s final three matches of the season, against Spennymoor, Bradford Park Avenue and Telford who are third, fifth and seventh respectively, to learn whether this squad of players are capable of better unsettling the division’s top teams contrary to evidence from the first four-fifths of the campaign.

During a cagey first half, the visitors’ midfield prompter Sean Williams (left) fired the game’s first effort just wide from 20 yards at the end of a patient passing move. On 18 minutes, the Minstermen then squandered an excellent opportunity to forge in front... But the on-loan Bury midfielder shot straight at Robins keeper Tony Thompson...

After Yusufi Ceesay went on to drive high and wide from 20 yards, City survived their biggest scare of the opening 45 minutes, as an unopposed Tom Hannigan headed down and wide from three yards following John Johnston’s free kick from the right...

Just after the restart, City were again relieved to see Ceesay drill against Bartlett’s near post after Kallum Griffiths and David Mirfin had both misjudged the bounce of the ball in the wind to send the on-loan Blackpool winger clear through the right channel. In response, just before the hour mark, Burgess worked his way into a shooting position inside the away penalty box and blasted a rising 12-yard attempt against a beaten Thompson’s right-hand post...

A further Hulme attempt narrowly cleared the bar from 15 yards, prior to Hancock’s deadlock breaker. The former Telford and Salford attacker claimed his 16th goal of the season when, following Johnston’s low cross from the right, he was afforded time and space in the home box to flick the ball up and then beat Bartlett with a dipping 12-yard strike.

Watson’s men couldn’t mount a response even with Jon Parkin and Hamza Bencherif both thrown upfield to add weight to the frontline... before the final whistle ensured Altrincham followed table-topping Chorley in completing the double over the Minstermen this term.

City ratings: Adam Bartlett 6, Kallum Griffiths 6, David Mirfin 6, Sean Newton 7, David Ferguson 6, Adriano Moke 5, Scott Burgess 6, Paddy McLaughlin 5, Wes York 5, Jordan Burrow 5, Alex Kempster 5. Subs: Alex Harris 5 (for Moke, 57), Jon Parkin (for Kempster, 62), Hamza Bencherif (for Griffiths, 90). Subs not used: Ryan Whitley, Josh Law.

Star man: Newton – switched play in impressive fashion considering blustery conditions and defended well... Altrincham star man: Williams – directed proceedings well from middle of the park...

• Shots on target: City 4, Altrincham 4
• Shots off target: City 0, Altrincham 8
• Corners: City 4, Altrincham 5
• Fouls conceded: City 15, Altrincham 8
• Offside: City 0, Altrincham 3

"LUCKY" DATE

HANCOCK'S SEVEN MINUTES

The National League has brief highlights of the game.

LADIES UPDATE

YOUTH'S WIN PENALTY SHOOT-OUT

RESERVES AT HOME

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

I say in form. but that did not show at all from the Northamptonshire side against whom County keeper did not have a shot of any significance to handle in the first half. He had maybe two shots to stop after the break, and the second of these saw Lee Ndlovu win the game for the Saints.

Town had been held together by Shane Byrne who was up and down the park all afternoon to good effect, and galvanised further by Matt Lowe through whom all their forward moves flowed.

County’s reply to this was muted, and hindered to a degree by an over reliance on high balls into the box which were dealt with routinely, for most of the time, by the home side's bean pole back line... Defensively County... were never unduly stressed. Indeed the angst was mainly at the other end where, as the game wore on, a familiar pattern of over vigorous tackling and time wasting became a feature of Town's play...

County’s starting line-up showed five changes from Tuesday at Boston, as Baines, Minihan, Walker, Osborne and Kirby, were in for Duxbury, Thomas, Turnbull, Warburton and Stephenson, the first 4 of whom were on the bench...

Brackley looked increasingly harassed as County pressed forward, but the first half's pattern was repeating itself as County won free kicks... but could not find the required cutting edge from the set pieces... County kept pressing, and then... calamity... The ball was loose and County could not react quickly enough allowing Ndlovu to slam the ball home to give Brackley a lead they were probably surprised to have".

According to the Telegraph & Argus, "Bradford (Park Avenue) extended their unbeaten run to five games with a fine 2-0 victory at Ashton United... as Mark Bower's men followed up their midweek home triumph with a victory on the road.

Ashton were third from bottom, just inside the relegation zone, and looking for the win that would have taken them level on points with Guiseley... Park Avenue did their neighbours a favour as the result meant the Robins dropped a place to second from bottom, leaving Guiseley three points clear of the relegation places but with a game in hand on the bottom three.

The first half at Hurst Cross was tricky for both clubs with tough weather conditions, and the home side had arguably the better chances... Bradford’s best chances fell to on-loan York City forward Macaulay Langstaff... Avenue were better after the break...

The Robins’ last line of defence was finally breached when Conor Branson headed the visitors in front in the 68th minute... and the home side should have levelled in the penultimate minute... Avenue put the gloss on their win with a second as Spencer fired past McMahon in the first of three added minutes and the win kept Bower’s side in fifth place.

The Park Avenue boss said 'It was really difficult with the conditions. The rain made the surface soft so it was difficult for the players to keep their feet and the wind was howling, so all aspects of the game were affected. It was just one of those days when you had to concentrate on the ugly side of the game and grind a result out which is exactly what we did. We got the game won and another three points was pleasing given the difficulties.

'I’ve heard a lot of Premier League managers complaining about the wind in recent weeks – they should play on some of the pitches we have to play on. It’s one thing playing on a good pitch in the wind and rain but it’s totally different when the surface is deteriorating to these extents. That’s why we had to focus on the ugly side of the game against a side needing every point. They (Ashton) beat Chorley a few weeks ago which shows the quality they have and it’s difficult at this stage of the season when every team has got something to play for.

'We stuck to the task well and began to dominate even before we got the goal. We had to work for it and be patient but I always felt that our quality would tell and we would create the chances to win it... All of those factors coming together made it really pleasing to come away with the three points. We also came away with no injuries so we’ll have options again when we go to Spennymoor on Tuesday evening'".

Kidderminster Harriers report that "Mark Yates rued the amount of individual battles his team lost on Saturday in going down 3-0 at Chorley. Harriers were able to offer only flashes and moments of quality at Victory Park as the hosts, ultimately, eased to a comfortable victory.

Yates watched on as his charges were taught a painful lesson by the well-organised Magpies, his frustration evident after the game. Speaking soon after the final whistle, he said 'Credit to them, that’s why they’re top of the table, they have a system and they play to their strengths. I’m trying to get my players to do certain things, but I am not sure if it is necessarily within their mindset to want to do it all the time, and to keep believing in it.

'Football is never perfect, but if you keep trying to do the right things then you’ve got a chance. We didn’t do that enough times today. We lost too many individual battles and, obviously, lost the main battle as a team. Only two or three of my players, one of them the ‘keeper, can hold their hands up and say "I did all right today". When you’re only winning three battles on the pitch out of eleven, you’re not going to win games.”

From the Northern Echo we read that "Tommy Wright criticised his players after Darlington threw away a two-goal lead for the fourth time this season.

They led 2-0 at relegation rivals Hereford, only to collapse in the second 45 minutes and suffer a 4-2 loss... Darlington had no answer to Hereford’s forceful attacking when they scored three goals inside 12 minutes, and a fourth in stoppage time.

'The players need to be more grown-up, more mature and see games out instead of the tippy-tappy stuff that they seem so obsessed with,' he said. 'The lads are saying the right things in the dressing room, and I’m going to give them the benefit of the doubt because they know that they’ve identified the fact that they can’t keep going on like this. Winning games of football at the moment should be the only priority for that dressing room.

'There have been four occasions now this season in which we’ve been 2-0 up and had chances to extend the lead. At 2-0 we thought we’d done the hard bit, but then to concede early in the second half was the catalyst. They were four really sloppy goals, the score shouldn’t have got to 2-2, never mind 4-2.'

Darlington also wasted two-goal leads in games at Bradford PA, Leamington and Altrincham, at least taking a point in each of them, but at the weekend they did not even manage that, so were leapfrogged in the table by Hereford, dropping to 17th...

'We need to pick the lads up sooner rather than later. We can’t keep relying on results below us going in our favour, we have to win games,' added Wright. 'We won’t change our shape but we’re a bit light on the ground because of the injuries to Joe [Wheatley] and Romal [Palmer]. We’ll probably have to look at the loan market again this week and see if we can add something'...

Having lost 3-1 at Telford last Tuesday, it was the second time in four days Darlington supporters had gone a long way for nothing.

Wright added 'I was gutted for the fans, because they came out in their numbers again and then saw us capitulate in the way we did in the second half. We stopped working hard as a team in the second half. We were cruising at half time and it should have been three points, and with the way the other results went, it could have been an opportunity to pull further clear, but we’ve still got a seven-point gap. I thought Hereford deserved it in the second half, because they showed a lot of character to come back after being 2-0 down'".

Altrincham's next away trip is to Alfreton Town from where the Derbyshire Times reports that "Alfreton Town recorded their fourth consecutive National League North win with a 2-1 success at bottom-of-the-table Nuneaton Borough lifting the Reds into the top half of the table for the first time since September.

The home side battled hard, however, particularly after the dismissal of striker Luke Barlone for a dangerous tackle on Dominic Smith five minutes before half-time... The Reds [made] the breakthrough though when skipper Luke Shiels met a Sinnott corner from close range to finally head Alfreton in front in the 68th minute.

Just five minutes later Ryan Edmunds was left clear to equalise after hesitation in the Reds’ defence. But further pressure from the visitors brought an 88th minute winner when Styche was felled by Mike Calveley after a blistering run down the left flank. Sinnott made no mistake from the ensuing penalty kick.

Alfreton Town: Ramsbottom; Clackstone, Shiels, Riley, Wilde, Smith, Johnson, Hotte [Lynch 67], Sinnott, Bacon [Styche 58], Peniket. Other subs: Clarke, Platt, O’Brien".

YORK CITY 0-1 ALTRINCHAM

Above: Josh Hancock, pictured at York before his winning goal was scored.

Altrincham secured a well-deserved win on what was potentially their last-ever visit to Bootham Crescent, given York City's planned relocation next season.

In a goalless first-half, York gradually got the upper-hand after the visitors had started well. Indeed, Altrincham were indebted to a fine block by goalkeeper Thompson when Burgess got free inside the box in the eighteenth minute.

But the second half saw Altrincham largely dominate proceedings after they had hit the post just two minutes into the second period. Ceesay advanced on goal before striking the upright, though the wingman might have done better to feed Hulme instead. Ten minutes later, York got forward and when Burgess wriggled into the box, he too struck an upright.

But Altrincham were on top for long periods which helped to subdue both their opponents and the home crowd. Altrincham's pressure finally got its reward in the 81st minute when Hancock scored a superb goal, hooking the ball acrobatically across keeper Bartlett into the net.

The win lifted Altrincham to sixth in advance of a visit from Brackley Town next Saturday.

ALTRINCHAM: Thompson, White, Hampson, Jones, Hannigan, Moult, Johnston, Williams, Hulme, Hancock, Ceesay. Subs: Dolan, Harrop, Sass-Davies, Densmore and Richman.

CATERING FOR SUCCESS

"I've kept it quiet this week but we had a surprise inspection from the Environmental Health people and Trafford Council, a day or so before the recent Chester victory.

Right: Richie's Leaning Tower of Pizza.

After a monumental three-hour inspection, a lot of which was chatting about the new legislation for allergens, all of which we were beginning to comply with and understand, I am proud to say we received top marks. Our last visit saw us lose a point due to the away end catering needing replacing [which has now happened].

I'm so proud that Richie Bentley catering has been at the Club for such a long time now and we have made great strides in the catering and retail outlets. So much so, we have made plans for further developments in the next few seasons.

Our current team of Dawn Abbott and Stuart Buchan, as matchday catering managers, with the team of Matt, Leo, James, Mathew, George, Joe, Frank, Olly and the odd extra helper are excelling themselves in delivering our match day and ad hoc events.

The Manchester Glass Sponsors' Lounge team of Noel, Neil, Richard, Lisa, Jackie, Gill, Tom and Ron have been superb also, with full-capacity lounges at most games this season.

I'd like to thank Grahame Rowley and the board for their continued help and support and for boosting the catering presence at the club. Thanks also to Sara, Peter Foster, Karen Rowley and the Community section of the club, who have also had great feedback from the multiple and varied catered events that the club can now offer.

Finally on that note, big thanks to Stuart Buchan for his plumbing skills in the installation of all the new electrical equipment throughout the club... and, if you want to sample an amazing three-course dinner and hospitality at Alty in the near future, we have former Manchester United stars Kevin Moran and David Sadler at a Sporting Dinner. We also have an end of season awards event and a few spaces left in the Manchester Glass lounge for our remaining matches. Please contact us to book your place.

Many thanks to all fans and customers at Altrincham FC!"

NEXT OPPONENTS: BRACKLEY TOWN

Ndlovu’s 19th goal of the campaign was all that separated the league’s top two in-form teams at St James Park.

Saints manager Kevin Wilkin was able to field a full strength side against the leaders after Gaz Dean, Jimmy Armson and Carl Baker were all declared fit. County’s top scorer Matty Warburton started on the bench.

After a tight, tepid opening both sides had chances... County manager Jim Gannon threw on Warburton on the [second-half] resumption to give his side more of a threat in the final third as the game opened up. Saints went close when Armson helped on Shane Byrne’s header but Ndlovu could only shoot tamely at Hinchliffe.

County again enjoyed the better possession as the half progressed... Wilkin made his move and replaced Adam Walker with Luke Fairlamb midway through the second half and it paid off immediately as Saints broke the deadlock in the 76th minute. Lowe’s deep cross fell to Fairlamb whose fierce dive was superbly saved by Hinchliffe but Ndlovu acrobatically volleyed home the rebound from six yards.

Lewis preserved all three precious points when he produced a superb double save to thwart Osbourne in quick succession, keeping out his initial pile driver before reacting quickly to bravely block his follow-up."

MASON FAWNS

To counter this, Tom has bolstered his squad with five new signings. Full back Joel Amado signs from Irlam FC along with forward Adam Farrell from Atherton Collieries and ex FC United of Manchester midfielder, Michael Jones. Two players join us on dual registration, midfielder Mason Fawn[s] from Altrincham and Salford City winger, Kamar Moncrie".

Mason only recently joined Altrincham and had made two appearances from the bench.

SATURDAY'S GATES

• Att. 1632: AFC Telford United 1-3 FC United Of Manchester
• Att. 265: Ashton United 0 - 2 Bradford (Park Avenue)
• Att. 1107: Brackley Town 1 - 0 Stockport County
• Att. 1983: Chester FC 1 - 1 Leamington
• Att. 1474: Chorley 3 - 0 Kidderminster Harriers
• Att. 2294: Hereford FC 4 - 2 Darlington
• Att. 517: Nuneaton Borough 1 - 2 Alfreton Town
• Att. 1025: Southport 2 - 3 Boston United
• Att. 2618: York City 0 - 1 Altrincham

ALTY OLD BOYS

James Walshaw scored for Scarborough Athletic, who won at Neil Young's Marine. There was a surprise home defeat for Warrington Town, who lost 2-3 to Stafford Rangers for whom Theo Bailey-Jones netted. And Scott Metcalfe scored as Radcliffe won 4-0 at Kendal Town.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

It could have been more at half time and it was shortly after, as Kurt Willoughby's strike was followed by a Tom Peers third. Telford did huff and puff, but Ellis Deeney's late penalty was all they could muster.

Cowan said... 'For whatever reason we did not perform at the levels we have been, and FC United capitalised on that. I thought we started magnificently and did well... We had three or four chances and then they got a little bit of encouragement. We became despondent and almost sulked, I think sulked is the right word. It didn't go our way and we didn't problem solve'.

FC United had numerous chances in the second period and if they would have scored more than five Telford could not have argued...

He added, 'What the players may have mistaken today is that FC United would come here and roll over and it does not work like that. Hopefully we can use this as a positive at the back end of the season, about how we need our core values and can't shirk them. I would rather get done by a team passing us off the park. The passion and desire is something that sticks in my stomach.

'A man with nothing to lose is a dangerous man I told the players, and they [FCUM] played without fear. Their desire and hard work was above and beyond us, and that is the most painful thing. It is the first time I have seen it this season, and it is surprising.'"

One of Cowan's players voiced a different analysis as the Shropshire Star also reported that "Ellis Deeney denied that he and his AFC Telford United team mates were complacent going in to today's defeat, and insisted it was just a bad day at the office...

He said... 'Defensively, from back to front it was just one of those days we have to put to bed and go again. I can't think of any reason for the performance, we tried to do the right things and it was just not coming off. It was a bad day at the office.'

When asked if complacency had crept in he said, 'No, we know we need points to cement a place in the play offs. We know every game is a big game. We don't do that, it is not our mentality'...

Deeney admitted the intensity in training will now increase, with everyone vying for a place in the [FA Trophy semi-final] starting side next week.

He added, 'It is one of them games where [we] have hunger anyway. It is massive and everyone wants to play. It will be tense throughout the week with everyone trying their best to get in that side.'"

Hereford staged a comeback on Saturday to beat Darlington 4-2. According to the Hereford Times, "Hereford started well and Danny Greenslade's free-kick was just headed wide through a crowd by the visitors' William Smith... With their first chance Darlington took a 12th minute lead when a defensive header fell at the feet of Tom Elliot, who shot outside the box over Matt Yates and into the net.

Darlington should have been two ahead after just 31 minutes when Jordan Cullinane-Liburd misplaced a pass back to goalkeeper Matt Yates. Stephen Thompson took advantage and beat the goalkeeper only to be denied by a goal-line clearance by Danny Greenslade.

The second goal eventually came on the 37th minute after Josh Gowling was dispossessed by Wilson Kneeshaw before the striker pulled it back for Stephen Thomson to slide home...

However, it was Hereford who struck a goal back after 58 minutes when Kieran Thomas fired home off the post from inside the box... On the 67th minute Hereford were level after Kyle Finn's cross to Mike Symons was bundled into the net. Just three minutes later the Bulls were ahead after Finn's cross was met by an arm resulting in a penalty which Tom Owen-Evans dispatched...

The victory was sealed in the 91st minute as Lance Smith, on his return from injury, slotted home".

The National League informs us that "Jamie Vermiglio knows it was a good day for Chorley as they returned to the top of the National League North. A fine 3-0 victory at home to Kidderminster coupled with Stockport County losing their long unbeaten run at Brackley made it[[ an afternoon to remember.

The Magpies [have] overtaken County and have a one-point lead thanks to a show of ruthless finishing.

Vermiglio was understandably a happy man... 'It was a fantastic result against a really good side,' he said on the club’s video service. 'I was so impressed by the goals we scored. Especially the second one; we played really well going forward, it was good [to] see. I really think our decision making was as good as it has been all season.

'It actually leaves you a little bit frustrated that some of our other performances haven’t been as strong in that area. But I feel an overwhelming sense of positivity after that performance. When we play with that type of intensity we’re at our very best. We did that from an early stage in the game and I’m delighted with the players.'”

The Boston Standard states that "Craig Elliott dedicated Boston United’s Southport win to the fans. The Pilgrims boss was delighted with his side’s late victory, which leaves the Pilgrims six points off the play-off spots.

'I’m so pleased for the fans today. What a horrendous journey it is to travel all this way,' he said. [It's a 176 mile cross-country journey]. 'They had no right to come today after the last two games. Just to win the game in the manner we did sends them home happy and today it's for them who have travelled. It’s a long way to come and it wasn’t great conditions either. It’s just great to win.'

Jake Wright and Gavin Allott netted for the Pilgrims, with Nicky Walker and Allott both claiming the final touch for the late winner.

'That’s the argument in the dressing room,' Elliott added. 'Some of the other lads were saying it was an own goal by (Ryan) Astles too. I’ll let them sort that out'.

Although happy with the result, Elliott was left frustrated by Bradley Bauress’s opener and what appeared to be a late equaliser by Jordan Archer. 'I thought we’d thrown away the points with a disappointing goal. But we haven’t done this enough, coming back with minutes to go,' he said. 'I thought we were awful in the first 20 minutes and I lost my head at half time. I thought we travelled all this way, and to start a game in that manner. It’s just attitudes really, we needed a few home truths. Fair play to them, I said it’s about character and they did that'".

YORK CITY 0-1 ALTRINCHAM

Above: It's smiles all round as Josh Hancock (third from right) is congratulated on his well-taken goal, his fifteenth in the league this season.

YORK BOSS'S VIEWS

Josh Hancock’s 81st-minute wining goal earned the play-off challengers maximum points against a City team that only mustered three shots during the whole afternoon.

Ex-Gateshead chief Watson confessed that it was an attacking performance that he had not foreseen, but also refused to be overly-critical of players whose February efforts had seen him named the division’s manager of the month.

Offering his forthright view of the contest, Watson declared, 'We were really poor and nowhere near good enough on the ball. All the players who have been confident and creative for us just had off days. We didn’t string three or four passes together and, at the end, we looked devoid of ideas. Our three front men have all been scoring, but they didn’t have a shot at goal.

Right, Jon Parkin dwarfs Tom Hannigan.

'I knew we had to step up in standard to beat a team like Altrincham, but we didn’t ask enough questions of them. Perhaps with the exception of Sean Newton and David Ferguson, nobody did well in possession and, if your best players on the ball are your centre-half and left back, you’re not going to win many games.

'Driving to the game, I felt really positive about how we could hurt them. That’s not how it transpired, and I didn’t really see that performance coming, but I won’t berate the players, because they have responded really well over the last six weeks.'

Watson reasoned that his side lacked the match-winning ability of Hancock, who flicked the ball up in the home box before beating City keeper Adam Bartlett with a dipping 12-yard attempt.

On that decisive moment, the ex-Everton and Newcastle defender added, 'We didn’t work hard enough to stop the ball going into the box, but it was a world-class goal from their lad, and we didn’t have that bit of special quality that was the difference between the two sides.'

Otherwise, Watson argued that the Minstermen didn’t look inferior to an opposing team that have occupied a play-off position for all but four days of the last four months. 'I thought Chorley and Stockport looked very strong against us and, whilst we have improved since then and I don’t want to disrespect Altrincham, I don’t think they caused us too many problems,' Watson said. 'Adam Bartlett didn’t have many saves to make and they didn’t look much better than us.

'They are a team that score a lot of goals, but they didn’t really hurt us, and we probably restricted them to the fewest shots on target they’ve had in a game for a long time.'

Scott Burgess, who would later hit a post, had the best chance to score for City after breaking clear on goal in the first half but Watson put his failure to beat Robins keeper Tony Thompson into context when he pointed out 'Scott Burgess will be disappointed with his chance, but the keeper stood up and made a good save and even the best players in the world sometimes don’t score one-on-ones, as we’ve seen with Mo Salah recently.'

Watson also feels that second-half substitute Parkin is being unfairly penalised by officials, lamenting 'Every time I play Parky, the referees keep giving fouls against him when, sometimes, they’re not fouls; he’s just moving people out of the way. When 6ft 4in defenders end up on the ground, the referee assumes it’s a foul, but he’s so strong.'

Alex Harris had earlier come on for Adriano Moke, but Watson does not expect the latter’s second-half injury to be serious. 'He said he was feeling his groin and I was looking to make a change in midfield, so he made my mind up for me,' Watson explained".

SATURDAY FIXTURES

• AFC Telford United 1-3 FC United of Manchester (Tom Peers got the final goal)
• Ashton United 0-2 Bradford (Park Avenue)
• Brackley Town 1-0 Stockport County
• Chester FC 1-1 Leamington
• Chorley 3-0 Kidderminster Harriers
• Curzon Ashton P-P Blyth Spartans
• Hereford FC 4-2 Darlington
• Nuneaton Borough 1-2 Alfreton Town (Jordan SInnott hit the winner)
• Southport 2-3 Boston United
• Spennymoor Town P-P Guiseley
• York City 0-1 Altrincham

ALTY AT YORK

Mike Garnett provides the full historical record of previous encounters between the clubs.

• Home: P8-W1-D4-L3-F8-A16
• Away: P8-W1-D2-L5-F5-A16
• All: P16-W2-D6-L8-F13-A32

Following the arrival of Billy Sass-Davies (see below), Altrincham's squad at York could include three loanees, in Sass-Davies, Yusufi Ceesay and Joe Piggott, as well as three other players who were signed recently but who have yet to start a first-team game; namely, Matthew Chadwick, Callum Dolan (right) and Mason Fawns

On the eve of the match, York City announced that "Steve Watson has won the Vanarama National League North 'Manager of the Month' award for February. City won four games out of five in February and climbed from 19th position to 12th position in the league table...

Watson said, 'It is nice to be acknowledged by Vanarama and the National League for the improvements that we have all made. Both Micky Cummins and I set the team up but the players have to take on board the messages and win the games. Ultimately, this is an award is for everyone at the club.' Former Gateshead manager Watson joined City on January 10 and has now been in charge of the side for eight league games. City are now 11th in the table ahead of [the] home game against Altrincham".

The National League adds that "Steve Watson’s start at York City was tricky to say the least but things seem to be clicking for the ex-Gateshead boss at the minute, claiming the most wins of any National League North side in February.

Not even a defeat to Hereford could dampen the Minstermen’s spirit in a month which saw them win every other game they played. The month began with an away trip which was turning into one of those days until two late, quickfire goals completed an incredible turnaround win against Alfreton Town.

A Jordan Burrow brace saw them comfortably dispatch Ashton United at Bootham Crescent before heading to Kidderminster Harriers the following week and claiming the spoils with a 2-1 win. The final game of the month saw Hamza Bencherif and, quite fittingly, Wes York bag goals nine and ten of the month for the club, who now sit just eight points away from the top seven."

York Press reports that "Centre-back Hamza Bencherif could be used as an emergency striker by York City if the team need to grab a late winning goal during the run-in to the end of the season.

After taking 83 games and more than two years to open his account for City, the 6ft 3in defender has netted three times in his last seven outings... The 31-year-old Frenchman could return to substitute duty for tomorrow’s home match against fellow play-off hopefuls Altrincham with David Mirfin available again after the healing of his facial wound that required 31 stitches...

City chief Steve Watson [reasoned] 'Every game will be like a cup tie that we need to win on the day from now on, so we have to be brave in our decisions. Parky (Jon Parkin) would obviously go on before Hamza, but I would not think twice about throwing him up there if there are a few minutes left and we need to put balls into the box to get the points. I hope it doesn’t come to that and we can win games the way we want to play, but it’s certainly an option'...

City are currently a couple of strikers light following loan moves for Jake Wright and Macaulay Langstaff. But Watson has no regrets about lending the pair to play-off rivals Boston United and Bradford Park Avenue, even if Langstaff scored a winning goal for the latter in midweek.

'I don’t look at it as the wrong thing to do, because we just have to concentrate on beating the teams ahead of us and both players won’t play against us,' the Minstermen chief insisted. 'Maybe two or three more of our players could have gone out to clubs too, but that didn’t work out or the lads didn’t want to. If players aren’t in the squad of 16, I’d rather them get some game time than be sitting in the stands, then they can come back and help us out. The system we are playing only lends itself to one striker and we have got two in Jordan (Burrow) and Jon (Parkin) who can play as target-men and focal points. We’ve also got Alex Kempster, Wes York and Alex Harris doing well on either side and we’re winning games.'

Watson went on to admit that he perhaps should have made more changes to his side than the six he decided upon for Tuesday’s North Riding Cup penalty shoot-out defeat at Scarborough, saying 'I wanted to have a look at people over 90 minutes but we also felt it was right to put out a strong side because a lot of our fans were going to be there. In hindsight, we might have been better resting the five players who had 90 minutes on Saturday, especially on a 3G pitch where you can get a few niggles, but we wanted to take the competition seriously, win the game and win the cup.'"

Also from York Press we read that "Altrincham will arrive at York City as National League North’s top goalscorers on the road. The Robins have rattled in 34 away goals this term, which is one more than second-placed Chorley have mustered, who have played one more game on their travels than Phil Parkinson’s men.

But goals have been a common occurrence at both ends of the pitch during seventh-placed Alty’s 2018/19 league trips, with a total of 28 conceded representing the seventh-highest tally in the division.

The Moss Lane outfit have also kept just two clean sheets in 17 away contests this season with the 6-0 success at Curzon Ashton in their last fixture on the road becoming their first since visiting Darlington back in August. Nevertheless, a return of eight triumphs on their travels is still only bettered by top-three sides Stockport and Spennymoor. Altrincham are the league’s second leading marksmen overall, meanwhile, with 64 goals placing them just two behind Chorley.

The Cheshire team have plundered four or more goals in seven separate matches this term, including one 6-0 success and a 5-0 thrashing. Ex-Telford and Salford winger Josh Hancock is the Robins’ top scorer this season with 15 goals, although he is embroiled in a tight three-way fight for the club’s golden boot with two other players in double figures. Former Salford pair Jordan Hulme and John Johnston have hit the target 14 and 13 times respectively.

Winger Johnson has netted in each of the last three games and is the only Alty player to have achieved that feat during the current campaign. Hulme, meanwhile, has found himself on the bench for the last two games after serving a four-match suspension and he is now without a goal since January 5.

In his absence, 20-year-old, on-loan Wigan Athletic forward Joe Piggott has stepped up to the plate, scoring four times in the last three games, including a hat-trick against Curzon.

The visitors will continue to be without four injured players, though, with centre-back Ben Harrison (knee), striker Matthew Chadwick (whiplash from a car crash), attacker James Poole (hamstring) and keeper Steven Drench (knee) all sidelined.

Parkinson’s team will also arrive in North Yorkshire having only dropped out of the top seven for four days at the turn of the year since defeating the Minstermen 3-0 back in mid-November... although inconsistency over the last three months has all but extinguished any hopes of automatic promotion.

Alty have only win five of their last 15 fixtures, whilst also drawing four and losing six contests during that period. The away team are, however, bidding to win three consecutive away games on the trot for the first time this season, having defeated Curzon Ashton (6-0) and FC United of Manchester (2-1) on their last two trips.

Alty’s match against the Minstermen is the first of five fixtures from their next six contests that sees them tackle sides from the top half of the table, with Brackley, Kidderminster, Telford and Chorley all to follow".

ANOTHER NEW FACE AT ALTY

Sass-Davies has also had loan spells from Crewe with Colwyn Bay and Leek Town and has represented Wales under-19s.

He is pictured, right, in the game at Broadhurst Park, with Joe Piggott behind him.

He joins fellow-loanees Yusufi Ceesay (from Blackpool) and Joe Piggott (from Wigan Athletic) who are currently at Altrincham. In addition, this season the club has had the following other loan players; Owen Dale, Brendon Daniels, Josh Langley, Ashley Hemmings, Chris Sang and Nathan Waterston, bringing the total of loanees so far this season to nine.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

In February, the Club dedicated their League game versus Bradford (Park Avenue) to “Football v Homophobia”, celebrating the campaign’s tenth anniversary and as part of FvH Action Month. Altrincham became the first Club in world football to wear a rainbow kit.

The response was outstanding, with global media coverage and messages of support. A four-figure sum was raised for a Manchester Youth Charity too.

This event was Jordan’s idea and he was also behind the execution of it on the day, devoting dozens of hours per week to make it a success and ensured other volunteers and the Club’s Directors were aware of their responsibilities and delivered according to the plan".

THROUGH THE YEARS

The match, in the Blue Square Premier took place on a Tuesday night. Altrincham should have been ahead in the 20th minute but Chris Senior's penalty, awarded for a foul on him by Spann, was saved by the keeper. But it was Wes Baynes (later to play for Alty) who put the hosts ahead instead after 33 minutes, from a pass by Mangan, who had got behind Greg Young. Altrincham finally got the point they had earned when Young headed in Doran's corner in the 82nd minute.

WREXHAM: 1. Sam Russell, 16. Silvio Spann, 4. Ashley Westwood, 5. Mansour Assoumani, 15. Frank Sinclair, 7. Mark Jones, 19. Andy Fleming, 25. Christian Smith, 29. Luke Holden, 18. Wes Baynes, 30. Andy Mangan. Subs (to be confirmed) 24. Matty Wolfenden, 6. Mike Williams, 11. Neil Taylor, 20. Jamie McCluskey, 27. Chris Maxwell.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart COBURN, 6. Shaun DENSMORE, 12. Robbie WILLIAMS, 5. Greg YOUNG, 27. Ryan BROWN, 21. Peter DORAN, 4. Tom KEARNEY (capt), 16. Anthony DANYLYK, 11. Nicky CLEE; 10. Chris DENHAM, 19. Chris SENIOR. Subs 13. Russell SAUNDERS, 7. Robbie LAWTON, 9. Colin LITTLE, 18. Michael WELCH, 8. Clive MOYO-MODISE.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Avenue hope to build on a 2-1 midweek win over Leamington as they face an away double header when they first travel to third-from-bottom Ashton United tomorrow, followed by a trip to third-placed Spennymoor Town next Tuesday... Avenue are in a good position, after they moved up to fifth on 54 points following Tuesday’s triumph. Bower says... 'Ashton are more than capable of causing teams problems. They beat Chorley a couple of weeks ago. Tomorrow’s game is the priority and the focus for us. They are looking to recover from a couple of defeats and will be looking to pick up some points. Pretty much everyone in the league have something to play for, down to seventh place for the play-offs, they still have a chance.'"

The Yorkshire Evening Post informs us that "Guiseley co-manager Marcus Bignot is confident that the Lions will stave off the drop in National League North if they regularly replicate their performance levels at Curzon Ashton on Monday evening...

He said, 'The law of averages is that if we play like we did on Monday, results will turn. And if we play like we did in the previous two games, we are going to kind of get the same results. We have been on the wrong side of 1-0 scorelines in the last few games and on Monday, we needed to make some changes and freshen things up. We got the performance and were unlucky not to get a result.

'But certainly there were loads more positives than the two previous games at home against Southport and Alfreton'...

On tomorrow’s trip to third-placed Spennymoor side, Bignot added 'They have got one eye on automatic promotion and securing a play-off spot and they will be disappointed with their last two results. Against Stockport, they played well and were on the wrong end of a 1-0 scoreline and it will be very tough. They need the three points and so do we and it will make for an interesting, competitive game and one we’ll look forward to.'"

In the Shropshire Star under the heading "Two for Dan Udoh to be a record breaker for AFC Telford" we read that "Given the form the 22-year-old striker has been in as of late, you would back him to grab a brace against second-from-bottom side. It is not a foregone conclusion, of course, but a double would take Udoh to 26 goals for the season in all competitions. That would be the best campaign haul since the club’s rebirth in 2004.

Marcus Dinanga currently holds the distinction having netted 25 times last term.

But he has not been playing as of late because of Udoh’s ruthless streak and the superb form of Amari Morgan-Smith alongside him... They have each scored in the Bucks’ last three victories, one apiece in the heroic 2-1 FA Trophy semi-final victory at Solihull Moors, and twice apiece in the thrilling 4-3 triumph at Ashton United.

Those numbers suggest Telford chief Gavin Cowan will stick with them against a team who have let in 63 goals in 33 league games...

FC United, meanwhile, just want to win a game to have any hope of surviving. They are seven without a victory but they will take heart from the fact they have drawn their last three. And they have a few players Telford should be wary of.

Kurt Willoughby has chipped in with 13 league goals... Former Bucks man Tom Peers is another of their attacking options, while fellow ex-Telford player Bob Harris could start in defence.

Josef Bursik is set to be between the sticks for the hosts as Andy Wycherley looks to recover from an eye injury in time for the Trophy semi-final first-leg at Leyton Orient a week tomorrow.

Shrewsbury loanee Ryan Barnett was the man of the match against Darlington, so is expected to keep his place on the right flank.

Cowan does tend to make a couple of changes from game to game though, with Steph Morley and Jon Royle probably in with the best shouts of returning to the starting line-up.

Said the boss, 'Being 3-0 up we could move them around, give some players some game time. It is important to manage players, and we did that with Theo Streete and Daniel Udoh'".

The Vanarama National League reports that its Player of the Month for February is "Mark Anderson (Spennymoor Town). Three games, three wins and three goals. It’s been an incredible month for Spennymoor Town’s Mark Anderson.

His goals have helped Jason Ainsley’s side push themselves into serious title contention, mixing it with Chorley and Stockport County for the ultimate prize".

DRAWS ARE "NO GOOD" FOR YORK

He has also billed Saturday's game against seventh-placed Altrincham as one of the 'season-defining' fixtures. City are currently eight points adrift of the play-off zone in 11th spot after taking maximum points from their last four league games.

Watson said 'We have had four good results on the spin, and five out of six wins, but the teams that we are going to come up against in the next few weeks will really define what is going to happen for us. I think we have got to play five or six teams ahead of us and we need to beat them. We need to start hurdling people now.

'We are probably looking at having to win six, maybe seven, out of nine games which is a really tough ask but massively do-able! You only have to look at what happened last night in Paris (Manchester United's victory in the Champions' League) to see what can happen,' he added. 'You can upset the odds and that has got to be our thought process. We have to be bold, we have to be brave, and we have got to take teams on because wins are what we need. Even draws are no good.

'All the games we have got left, because we have given ourselves a fighting chance, they all become huge. Every game we win, we are hopefully bridging that gap and, until it is mathematically impossible, they will all be huge.'"

YORK, THE LAST TIME

Above: Alty fans behind the goal at Bootham Crescent in August 2010.

Altrincham's last league visit to Bootham Crescent was on Saturday, 28 August 2010 when the Minstermen won 3-0 in the national level of the Conference (then styled Blue Square Bet Premier).

On that occasion, three goals in the final 19 minutes gave York the points and kept Alty bottom of the table. Neither side had won a game before this early-season clash; indeed, Alty started the game bottom of the table. The visitors wore their new all-white away kit for the first time.

Altrincham had a couple of early chances and Matty Crowell's 50-yard effort caused the York keeper, Ingham, concern as he back-pedalled to tip the ball out for a corner. Substitute and at that time, a former Alty trialist, who later joined the Robins, Michael Rankine, scored the opener with a good shot into Coburn's left corner after a build-up on the right.

Above: Alty's Marc Joseph, Robbie Williams and, in the background, Matt Crowell in action at York, 2010.

When Joseph needlessly upended Brodie on the by-line a penalty was awarded and Brodie got up to drive it past Coburn (75 mins). Alty threw on Twiss to add to the attack but Rankine made it 3-0 with virtually the last kick of the game, turning well to plant the ball into Coburn's bottom right corner.

Robbie Lawton and Matt Doughty missed the match through injury as did Chris Denham and Nicky Clee. However, Anthony Danylyk and Shaun Densmore had returned from injury whilst Matty Crowell's long-delayed international clearance had finally arrived and this allowed him to make his first start. Ex-Alty defender Greg Young was on the bench for York.

YORK CITY: 24. Michael Ingham, 6. Daniel Parslow, 5. David McGurk, 12. Djoumin Sangare, 3. James Meredith, 7. Alex Lawless, 14. Neil Barrett, 8. Peter Till, 11. Chris Carruthers, 9. Michael Gash, 16. Richard Brodie, Subs: 15. Michael Rankine, 22. David McDermott, 2. Duane Courtney, 4. Jonathan Smith, 18. Greg Young.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. James SMITH, 5. Robbie WILLIAMS, 22. Michael WELCH, 4. Marc JOSEPH, 15. Ryan BROWN, 6. Shaun DENSMORE, 16. Anthony DANYLYK, 18. Matty CROWELL, 8. Damian REEVES, 12. Kevin HOLSGROVE, Subs: 21. James COATES, 17. Tom McCREADY, 19. Danny HOLMES, 9. Michael TWISS, 14. Dale JOHNSON.

THROUGH THE YEARS

PARKINSON'S PERSPECTIVE

Leading through a brilliant John Johnston strike, Alty’s progress towards a third successive win was abruptly halted when a deflection off Jake Moult that was picked up by keeper Tony Thompson was interpreted as a deliberate back pass.

Referee Lewis Smith awarded an indirect free kick seven yards out, despite furious protests, and it led to Blyth skipper Robbie Dale firing a shot through the wall and past Thompson.

'It cost us the three points, there’s no getting round that', said Alty boss Parkinson. 'Blyth came here to stop us rather than hurt us, which I’ve never seen from them before, but we still did enough to win. The fact we didn’t was down to a really, really poor refereeing decision. It was never going to be a free-flowing game, because they didn’t want it to be. So, getting our noses in front with a goal right out of the top drawer from JJ [Johnston], turning, swivelling and finishing with aplomb, ought to have done it for us.

'But then a decision like that lets them off the hook and allows them to defend for the rest of the game and get what they came for. They were more than happy with a point. To think Jake deliberately touched it with his studs into the path of Tony in that situation is ridiculous, as is the idea Tony would then pick it up if it was a back pass. Everyone in the ground knew it was a poor decision, and fundamentally it has cost us.'

Parkinson hopes to complete the loan signing of a centre-back before Alty travel to improving York City on Saturday.

'We are still ticking over and are very close to what we want to achieve, but we are under no illusions about how difficult the next run of games is,’ he said. ‘Having another defender on board will be important.'”

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The Lions are coming off two 1-0 losses, one against Southport at Nethermoor last Saturday and another at Curzon Ashton on Monday night.

'It was a real positive performance,' Bignot said about the Curzon Ashton match. 'The only negative was the result, although we know that's more important. Performances like that over the next nine games will get us the results we need.'

Bignot said young Curtis Morrison put in a good performance, alongside debuts for Guiseley Academy's 18 year-old striker Aleks Starchenko, and new signing Dylan Barkers, an 18-year-old midfielder from the academy at Bignot's former club Solihull Moors.

'They give us some youth, enthusiasm and pace,' said Bignot, who pleased with his team's effort on Monday. 'The boys gave us everything,' he said. 'We were a lot better in possession than of late and there was some real purpose in creating goal-scoring opportunities.'

Bignot was disappointed with the decision to disallow Morrison's goal after 16 minutes, but added: "We hope a decision goes our way on Saturday'. Going into this Saturday's away game against third placed Spennymoor Town, Bignot is hoping that Niall Heaton, who had to go off on Monday after a clash of heads, will be fit.

'We'll assess him on Thursday. We've been decimated by injuries this season, and never been able to call upon a full fit team. Spennymoor Town will be a big test for us. They are a physical and technical team who are going for automatic promotion this season. We've going to make it difficult for them, and this will be an opportunity for us to put some points on the board'".

We learn from the Boston Standard that "Boston United boss Craig Elliott has six strikers to choose from, and believes they may all still have a role to play this season.

With Jake Wright arriving on loan from York City and Jonny Margetts back in contention, the Pilgrims' boss now finds himself with a wealth of options in attack. Gavin Allott appears to have made the target man role his own, having started 22 of the last 23 matches since his arrival, missing out on Boxing Day due to illness.

It was Wright who started alongside Allott in midweek, and Elliott believes the York loanee will only improve with more games. 'It’s confidence and sharpness,' Elliott said. 'He’s not been played in his best position. I’m a big fan of his and I think he can only only get better. He’s a cute player, but he’s here for a reason. He wants to get minutes and up to speed.'

Jay Rollins can play as a striker or winger but has partnered Allott recently. However, he dropped to the bench against Stockport after feeling a soreness in his groin, an injury which previously sidelined him for six months.

'“He didn’t think he could do another 50-60 minutes,' Elliott continued. 'He’s still building up his fitness and muscles around the groin area. He should be back for Saturday.'

The return of [ex-Alty loanee] Margetts raised a few eyebrows as he hadn’t featured in a squad since September. Elliott said 'He’s been going out on loan and we’ve been asking him to get fit and score goals. He’s done that in this spell (with Matlock) so he’s had a chance. He’s come back and we’ll see how he goes over these next few games. Without being disrespectful of the league (below), it’s a step up again for him, so we’ll see how he settles down. This league has a higher tempo and better players.'

Andre Johnson and Jordan Slew have dropped out of the matchday squad, but Elliott says both can force their way back into his plans... The manager said, 'I’ve been building the squad up, trying to have options and I feel like we’ve been light recently'".

The Banbury Guardian informs us that "Brackley Town boss Kevin Wilkin will be looking for his side to maintain their excellent form against new leaders Stockport County.

Saints entertain Stockport in Saturday’s Vanarama National League North fixture, aiming to make it nine wins in ten outings. Wilkin’s side are fourth...

Wilkin said 'We’ll try and win the game, we’ve always got to try and do that against the top teams'.

Carl Baker, Jimmy Armson, Adam Walker and Gaz Dean are slight concerns for Wilkin but hopefully all four players will be fully fit to face County. Glenn Walker’s 300th appearance for the club helped Saints to a 3-1 victory at Blyth Spartans.

Wilkin said 'We started slowly and went behind but then put in a strong first half display and managed the game well in the second half. It’s a tough place to go so it was a great result for us... Glenn [Walker] was excellent for us again... Glenn has been an excellent servant for the club and hopefully he can continue to be in the future. He can play in several positions for us, he may not have the pace he used to have but he can still cover the ground well.'"

At Kidderminster Harriers, "Mark Yates has hailed Ed Williams’s progress this season, admitting the Harriers' man has come a long way from when they last worked together.

Top scorer Williams has 13 goals to his name this term, a total that might well have been greater were it not for a lengthy lay-off over the festive period... The gaffer... has a unique insight into just how much the former Gloucester man has progressed during the last couple of years. The pair worked together at Cheltenham Town, with Yates admitting that what Williams lacked in size he made up for in ability...

'He’s been great since I’ve been back,' Yates said. 'I’ve seen some of his games this season and he has been outstanding; he’s got a bit of everything. He’s matured since the days I had him as a Cheltenham Town youth player.. He’s far stronger. He was a little rake of a kid and had tons of ability but was constantly getting whacked. Now he can ride that. As a physical specimen… he’s strong and fit and covers ground. In the stats, he’s always one of the top ones, and he deserves it.'"

Cheshire Live reports that "While defeat at Altrincham on Saturday and results elsewhere in the week saw Chester FC slip to five points off the play-off places, Akwasi Asante still very much believes his side will be in the mix.

Asante, 26, has netted seven goals in five games for the Blues since joining from Tamworth, initially on loan, making the move permanent in January but has been beset by a tendon injury to the back of his knee... But now back in full training and available for selection for the home clash with Leamington on Saturday, Asante still believes that Chester have what it takes to be in the top seven come the end of the season.

He said, 'The managers spoke to me the other day and said that we've got a big run of games coming up and that we are still in the hunt and that I've got a big part to play, so I just want to get back to playing and scoring goals and help us get the points we need to get into the top seven... We have got five at home, four away. Our toughest games are at home but we back ourselves to beat anybody at home with our form the way it is. Every single game we have left is winnable and the target is still to reach the play-offs and that hasn't changed...

'We have big players coming back'... Dutch-born Asante, who top-scored in the National League North for Solihull Moors during their promotion season of 2015-16, admits that after an injury-hit season a full pre-season programme would help him hit the kind of heights he did for Moors.... 'I've had a recurrence of my original injury that has kept me out but I've pretty much had to get match fitness and sharpness in games, which isn't ideal,' he said.

'A full pre-season would be massive for me so that I can play a big part next season. Hopefully next season involves us playing in the National League'".

The Shropshire Star asserts that "Gavin Cowan wants to see more from frontman Marcus Dinanga after admitting he has dropped to fourth in the AFC Telford United striker pecking order.

Dinanga hit the headlines in January after making a permanent switch to Shropshire from Burton Albion, following his 20-plus goal haul for the Bucks last season while on loan. The striker, who was so prolific last year to keep the Bucks up, has stuttered on his return to the New Bucks Head and has been an unused substitute in the last two games...

Cowan admitted he has to work harder. He also revealed Dinanga has dropped below Andre Brown in the Bucks's striking order. He said 'There are three in front of him now, and he needs to do more than that he is doing. He needs to do more everywhere, and it is in his hands... I am not unhappy with what he is doing, it is down to him and his own standards at the end of the day.'

Meanwhile, keeper Andy Wycherley has been given the week off as he continues his recovery from the eye injury picked up at Boston United. The Bucks are hoping he will be OK to play in next week’s FA Trophy semi-final first leg against Leyton Orient as Stoke loanee Josef Bursik is cup-tied.

'He is full of spirit and we are still monitoring him,' added Cowan. 'On Monday he will get his final check, he just needs bed rest this week and I have given him the week off and time away from the club... He has had his instructions from me and he is a trustworthy lad'".

The National League says that Alfreton Town "manager Billy Heath made the decision to abandon his flat back four last month and it has worked a treat.

The club, struggling against the drop in the National League North in February, have put three big wins together. They have beaten title-chasing Chorley, fellow strugglers Guiseley and last weekend they got the better of Ashton United 2-0.

That result pulled Alfreton 13 points away from trouble but Heath won’t accept his side are safe just yet...

'The change in formation has really helped us. We are now going with three central defenders and that’s allowing us to keep clean sheets. If you start winning games and doing it on a regular basis the confidence starts to come. You then get the belief that even when you aren’t playing well, like we didn’t in the first half against Ashton, that something will happen for you'".

NEXT OPPONENTS: YORK CITY

York Press advises us that "David Mirfin will return to full-contact training tomorrow and should be available for York City’s home match with Altrincham this weekend.

The Press Player of the Month for February missed last weekend’s 1-0 National League North win at Leamington after suffering a facial wound that required 31 stitches during the previous game against Nuneaton. But the on-loan Mansfield defender is now in line for a recall, as the Minstermen target a fifth straight victory.

Commenting on the 33-year-old centre-back’s return to the fold, City assistant-manager Micky Cummins said 'Dave Mirfin trained on Monday non-contact and will be back for contact training tomorrow.'

Dan Parslow remains under doctors’ supervision following the head injury he suffered more than a month ago against Hereford, but Adriano Moke and Alex Kempster will both be fit despite picking up minor niggles during last night’s North Riding Senior Cup penalty shoot-out defeat at Scarborough Athletic.

Having been loaned out to Boston United for 28 days, Jake Wright has also been told to make sure he returns ready to make an impact at Bootham Crescent during the final weeks of the campaign next month.

Macaulay Langstaff is set to be recalled next week, meanwhile, from his month-long stint at Bradford Park Avenue, where he scored the winning goal in last night’s 2-1 home triumph over Leamington, with Cummins adding 'Just like we have done with Macaulay, we will use Jake’s loan to our advantage, because he should some back sharper and fitter.

'The formation we are playing doesn’t really lend itself to having three strikers on the pitch, so 20 minutes here and there is not really beneficial to them and they need games to keep them up to speed.'

Cummins went on to reveal that the club are still on the lookout for a new attacker, but there was 'nothing concrete' to report on that front, while teenage keeper Ryan Whitley was hailed as the biggest plus point from City’s Cup exit on the coast. Whitley, who has trained with Manchester City, Liverpool and the England youth set-up in the past, kept a clean sheet as the teams were deadlocked at 0-0 over 90 minutes before the tie was settled on spot kicks, with Cummins enthusing 'We really like young Ryan and he has big potential.

'We chucked him into a hostile environment (at Scarborough), and I thought he was very good. He controlled his back-line well. We look at the tactical and technical information he gives to the back four and the midfield and you could hear him being quite vocal. His distribution was also pretty good, along with his decision-making and, at 6ft 4in, he carries his frame really well and has a presence.

'He got the defenders out of trouble a couple of times and has the confidence to come out with his knee up. He’s performing really well in training and his shot-stopping has got better. Athletically, he’s improving too, because he’s got himself into the gym and is looking trimmer. He’s pushing Adam (Bartlett) and they work really well together.

'Adam has nothing but praise for him and is pushing him along, as is the goalkeeper coach (Andy Collett)'...

But the City coach was less pleased that Whitley’s opposite number at the Flamingo Land Stadium was only forced into one save during normal time...

Along with Ferguson, City strikers Jordan Burrow and Alex Kempster and midfield pair Scott Burgess and Adriano Moke all kicked off the tie, as Steve Watson included five players that started against Leamington at the weekend, with Cummins saying 'When it comes down to penalties, it’s all about who is the bravest and two of our lads missed the target, but the bigger concern was we fielded quite a strong team and, over the 90 minutes, we didn’t create much in terms of clear-cut chances to win the game.'

The other five outfield players on duty at Scarborough had all featured in the first team this term, but Cummins confessed that none of the quintet are likely to earn recalls as the club look to rack up a fifth straight win on Saturday.

'Joe Tait, Tom Bradbury, Alex Harris, Josh Law and Nathan Dyer all needed minutes and it was an opportunity to give them game time to see what we have in the group,' Cummins pointed out. 'They did OK and the game gave us food for thought in some positions but, off the back of four wins on the trot, we won’t be changing anything on Saturday unless it’s forced on us.'"

SPARTANS' VIEW

Both sides hit the woodwork in the second period as Blyth created the better chances but the game fizzled out into a draw. Dan Maguire made his 300th appearance for Blyth, but he spent most of the first 10 minutes watching the game from afar.

Altrincham started brightly... A minute later Peter Jameson was left stranded when Sean Williams strike curled just wide of the post. Spartans first opportunity fell to the aforementioned Maguire when he bobbled an effort just wide of Tony Thompson’s post. Spartans almost took the lead on 20 minutes when Jarrett Rivers cross was turned goalward by Sean Reid in “Bergkampesque” style but Thompson claimed comfortably.

Within 60 seconds the hosts took the lead. A mazy run by Johnston saw Spartans defenders back-off the talented midfielder before [he] curled a low effort into the bottom right hand corner.

In the 26th minute Spartans were handed a golden opportunity to level when Thompson was adjudged to have picked up a intentional back pass just outside his six-yard box. Reid rolled the ball back to Dale who somehow smashed the strike through six Altrincham defenders who were just three yards away, into the back of the net.

Nine minutes after the interval Spartans were denied the lead by a fine save from Thompson as Nathan Buddle’s goalbound effort was tipped onto the bar and out of play.

Three minutes later it was the hosts turn to hit the bar, Jake Moult’s effort deflected onto the crossbar by Peter Jameson.

On 68 minutes Spartans should have gained the lead. A mistake by the hosts saw Kieran Green latch on to an errant backpass, but the in-form midfielder couldn’t apply the finish.

With eight minutes to play substitute, and former Spartan, Max Harrop curled an effort goalward, Jameson’s fingertips again coming to the rescue".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The club is in a serious financial position and faces a £31,000 bill from HMRC due by the end of this month. After expenses, £1500 was raised from the trial as each player had to fork out £50 to take part. Five players who trialled have been offered the chance to train with the club tomorrow evening.

Nuneaton are bottom of the National North League and only a miracle will stop them being relegated."

From NL Daily we learn that "Southport goalkeeper Josh Tibbetts is on trial with Grimsby Town, according to Grimsby Live.

Grimsby Town were in Central League action against Mansfield Reserves. Tibbetts lined up between the sticks at Blundell Park, as a youthful Mariners side were beaten 2-1 by the visiting Stags. Tibbetts played the entire 90 minutes in Cleethorpes. The 20-year-old signed for Southport back in October."

According to the Lancashire Evening Post, "Jamie Vermiglio admitted there has been fresh interest in some of his Chorley players but he says they are all committed to the club’s promotion quest.

The Magpies were knocked off the top of the National League North table by Stockport County this week... With nine games remaining, starting with Saturday’s visit of Kidderminster Harriers, Vermiglio is not expecting any exits, as sides from the National League eye some of his players.

The Football League and Premier League transfer windows might be closed but transfers are still able to take place in non-league until the end of March.

Vermiglio, 36, stressed... 'There has been some interest with a few of our players from other clubs. The players have been spoken to but their allegiances are with Chorley. They realise how big a season it is and how well we are doing.'

Vermiglio admitted that if an offer is too good to refuse, and is the right move for a player, the club would not stand in their way. But he is not expecting that to happen...

'We are not 10th in the league, we are fighting at the top,' said Vermiglio... 'I’m confident we can hold on to all of our players until the end of the season, if not beyond'".

Cheshire Live reports that "Anthony Johnson says he and Bernard Morley won’t be able to make headway with what next season looks like until they know what their budget will be and what the model will look like.

Johnson and fellow Chester FC joint-manager Bernard Morley have nine games remaining of the current National League North campaign and sit five points off the play-off places in ninth...

The managers and the Blues board last month met to discuss the possibility of a hybrid model for next season and how that might look, and talks were held...

'We’ve got an eye on next season and now is the time when you want to start talking to players you’ve got and players you’d like to bring in about next year,' said Johnson. 'We’ve got an idea in our head about what we would like to look like but we are in limbo a bit at the moment as we don’t yet know what kind of budget we are working towards and how the model might look.

'We know that going full-time on a similar budget to this year isn’t viable but the hybrid model is something that we think will be an improvement for us and something that will enable us to progress as a football club and provide our young players with a pathway too.

'Training a couple of nights a week, that is OK for your experienced part-time players but when you are a young player in the first team squad you need more than that, you need that regular coaching in order to thrive at first team level. Hopefully we will know more soon but we have to make sure that we plan well ahead to give ourselves the best chance of progression. We didn’t have that opportunity last year'.

Defeat at Altrincham at the weekend and results elsewhere in the National League North saw Chester slip to ninth...

Johnson said 'This season has had its struggles but we are still in play-off contention despite everything that has happened. The teams above us have some tough games this weekend, if we win against Leamington on Saturday then we are right back in the mix and we’ll have eight games left. We’ve not given up on this season and we’ll keep pushing until the very end.'

Johnson and Morley are hoping to keep midfielder Sean McAllister, who has been playing for free so far at the club, for the rest of the season but could be hampered by budgetary constraints."

ALTRINCHAM 1-1 BLYTH SPARTANS

Two Altrincham players had tried to clear the ball near the byline, to the right of their own goal. The ball came off one Alty defender, onto the other, and then to goalkeeper Tony Thompson, who collected the ball. Whilst the referee's interpretation of this as being a back-pass was itself contentious, what exacerbated the punishment was his allowing Blyth to take the freekick from a much more favourable distance than it would have been, had it been taken from where the offence actually occurred (i.e. where the handling occurred). Apparently the Laws of the game permit this, stating "indirect free kicks to the attacking team for an offence inside the opponents’ goal area are taken from the nearest point on the goal area line which runs parallel to the goal line".

But, with Alty's wall standing on the goal-line, all Robbie Dale had to do was hit it into the upper reaches of the net from about seven yards, which he duly did.

Although Alty might have complaints about Mr Smith it has to be said that in the second half Altrincham did not reach the level of their first-half performance with too many attacks taking too long to develop. So the Robins dropped two points and lost ground on their play-off rivals, two of whom won tonight.

Altrincham fielded an unchanged starting eleven, but on the bench Elliot Wynne, back from his loan to Trafford, replaced the injured Steven Drench and Max Harrop returned from injury to displace Simon Richman.

TUESDAY SCORES

• AFC Telford United 3-1 Darlington
• Altrincham 1-1 Blyth Spartans (att. 718)
• Boston United 1-3 Stockport County
• Bradford (Park Avenue) 2-1 Leamington
• Spennymoor Town 1-1 Southport

CHESHIRE SENIOR CUP

Cheshire Senior Cup Semi Final

• Runcorn Linnets 2-1 Cammell Laird 1907

Tuesday, 12 March 2019

• Nantwich Town v Stockport County

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

'Glenn [Walker] was excellent for us again today,' Kevin Wilkin said. 'His was one of several fine individual performances in an overall strong team performance to earn an important win and continue our decent form.'

Blyth took an 8th minute lead through Dan Maguire, his 154th goal for the club on his 299th appearance, but Saints were level through Shane Byrne’s 25th minute penalty after Lee Ndlovu was brought down by on-loan keeper Mark Foden.

Gaz Dean’s header gave Saints a deserved lead five minutes later as Foden failed to collect from Glenn Walker’s precise cross and Byrne got his second after 37 minutes rifling in his shot straight down the middle of the goal to put Brackley in command.

There were further chances to extend the lead and there was defending to be done as Blyth never gave up but the score-line did not flatter the visitors. The result and the performance laid to rest the memory of last season’s 3-0 defeat at the hands of Spartans and kept Saints in 4th place".

The National League, writing to before Tuesday's games, reported that "Boston United are playing the champions-elect this evening according to Craig Elliott. But you won't find the Pilgrims' boss rolling out the red carpet for Jim Gannon's side at the Jakemans Stadium. The Lincolshire outfit are still in with a chance of the play-offs and Elliott insists they're only looking for one outcome on Tuesday night.

'In my opinion, Stockport will win it (the title)', he told the Boston Standard. 'We don't want to help them win it. We haven't given up hope and we want to keep our season alive. There are seven or eight teams fighting for the play-offs and we need to stay competitive'...

Elliott has added some firepower to his squad in the form of York striker Jake Wright. The 22-year-old has previously netted five times in 26 games for the Minstermen before his move."

Darlington reported that "On Tuesday night we travel to Telford United... The game had been scheduled to be played in February, but due to Telford’s progress in the FA Trophy the fixture was postponed.

We have already met twice this season, both at Blackwell Meadows. In the league we secured a 3-0 win, which was our first at home this season. However, Telford exacted revenge with a 2-0 win in the FA Trophy....

Telford are having a good season on two fronts, they’re also currently sitting in the final play-off spot as we enter the last two months of the league. It marks a drastic turn of events for the club who have been fighting to avoid relegation in recent years.

They scored a stoppage time equaliser at Boston on Saturday to earn a 2-2 draw. Despite their league position they have only won one in their last five league games. We go to Telford in a good frame of mind after being within minutes of beating Chorley at Blackwell Meadows on Saturday, plus we haven’t lost any of our last three games away from home.

Darlington manager Tommy Wright, who will carry out fitness checks on Romal Palmer and Stephen Thompson, says 'Telford are in several ways similar to Chorley, so we’ll be approaching tonight’s game in the same way as we did for Saturday. Telford are a solid side and the two forwards work very hard, so we’re expecting a tough game.'"

Next Saturday, Altrincham visit a fast-improving York City. From there a href="https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/17476378.york-city-to-run-rule-over-youngsters-against-scarborough/">York Press reports that "York City boss Steve Watson is hoping to run the rule over some of the club’s talented youngsters during tonight’s North Riding Senior Cup semi-final at Scarborough Athletic.

Teenage right-back Nathan Dyer, who is yet to play a senior game under Watson, despite making 10 first-team appearances earlier this season, is set to start at the Flamingo Land Stadium, having signed professional terms last week.

Youth-team hot-shot Ethan Henderson is also likely to feature, having hit back-to-back hat-tricks in under-19 victories over Gateshead (6-1) and Farsley Celtic (5-1) to take his season’s tally to 17.

Five senior professionals with first-team experience this term, Tom Bradbury, Alex Harris, Josh Law, Joe Tait and Jake Wright [who has since moved on, see above], are expected to kick off the last-four contest too, along with reserve keeper Ryan Whitley.

But Jon Parkin will not play any part on the Seadogs’ 3G pitch due to concerns over a past knee injury, while Dan Parslow remains doubtful four weeks on from suffering concussion during the 2-1 home defeat to Hereford and David Mirfin is not expected to return to training until Thursday due to the facial wound he suffered that required 31 stitches.

Simon Heslop is also ruled out for the rest of the season following knee surgery and, on his selection plans, Watson reasoned 'We won’t risk playing anybody who is feeling anything, and a couple won’t play on the 3G pitch because of injuries they have had before, so it might be a chance to look at some of the younger players.

'I’ve not seen much of Nathan Dyer and young Ethan has been doing great with the youth team, so it would be good to have a look at him. In my mind, it’s a first-team squad game that I want to win because it’s another chance to keep our run going and I know it will be a tough game, but the league is obviously our priority and I won’t be putting that at risk.'

Watson admitted it was particularly disappointing that Parkin, who has only managed three first-team substitute outings since the former Gateshead boss’ arrival at Bootham Crescent, would not be available to face Evo-Stik League Premier division promotion hopefuls Scarborough. 'It’s a shame that Jon won’t be able to play and it’s a shame that he couldn’t play more than ten minutes against Chesterfield in the practice game we had as well', Watson lamented. 'But the surface might be better suited to our younger players anyway.

'I’m not really a fan of 3G pitches. I think professional football should be played on grass every week, even though I understand why clubs have them because it’s a good revenue stream.'"

We are informed by the Yorkshire Evening Post that "Guiseley remain just three points clear of the National League North drop zone after a 1-0 loss at Curzon Ashton. It was a much-improved performance for Guiseley last night, but try as they might, they just couldn’t break down Ashton.

There was a debut for new signing Dylan Barkers, who started in midfield after joining from Solihull Moors... The hosts took the lead with the goal that turned out to be the winner after fine work by Olly Crankshaw. He saw his shot from 25 yards out well saved by Marcus Dewhurst, but he could only parry to Lewis Reilly who had an easy tap-in.

The Lions were pushing players forward, yet not able to create a great deal...

After the defeat Guiseley joint-manager Marcus Bignot said 'It is really hard to take not getting a goal, we have put in a good performance, we just couldn’t get that opener or equaliser. We did everything possible to get a result, we just couldn’t do it'".

At Leamington, manager "Paul Holleran gave us his thoughts after the narrow defeat to York City.

'Sadly it’s taking a bit of a familiar pattern for us at the moment really, where we’re having a really good go in games, creating lots of chances. There was lots of energy there today, lots of good individual performances, but it’s another defeat. I think the last four games, certainly the Blyth one and today, we could have won if we’d been a bit more clinical...

York are a good side with good players, and I think the biggest compliment to us was second half, when we had a real good go and really got at them. You could see the belief coming back into the players, and when you’ve got York City switching to a diamond and changing to five at the back to contain you, I mean it’s good play from them but we’ll look back at two or three moments in the game where we should have done better...

At the moment there’s not really a lot that I can criticise. I’ve just got to keep the players ticking over, it’s a difficult run of games, things aren’t quite going our way, we’ve got good players injured. Connor Taylor’s broke down in the warm up today, Dan Sweeney’s gone off with a thigh strain; there’s lots of little things are going against us at the moment, and then on the pitch we’re certainly not getting the bounce of the ball or the rub of the green. We’ve just got to stick at it...

We’re losing against good sides, but we could easily have had 12 points from the last four games, that’s just where we are at the moment'".

AFC TELFORD UNITED v ALTRINCHAM

ALTRINCHAM v BLYTH SPARTANS

Max Harrop, Ben Harrison and James Poole all missed last Saturday's match through injury and, following Altrincham's two recent comfortable victories, it would be a surprise if any unforced change were made to the starting eleven against Blyth. The visitors' goalkeeper, Jameson, was suspended for their midweek game against Chester but is eligible to return between the posts tonight.

In advance of tonight's match, Mike Garnett reminds us of the historical record beteween Altrincham and Blyth Spartans. This season Alty lost the reverse fixture, 2-1, at Croft Park.

• Home: P8-W5-D2-L1-F16-A9
• Away: P11-W3-D5-L4-F18-A19
• All: P19-W8-D7-L5-F34-A28

Altrincham go into the match tonight in fifth place in the league, nine points ahead of fourteenth-placed Blyth. The Spartans had a tremendous run of fourteen games unbeaten in all competitions before their current sequence of a single win in eight outings.

"ONE OF BEST DEFENDERS IN LEAGUE" RE-JOINS BLYTH

Atkinson first joined Blyth Spartans in December 2016, initially on loan from Carlisle United before joining permanently in early 2017. He made 23 appearances last term, adding to the 15 he made in his initial spell with the club. He moved to Iceland for a second spell with IBV Football Club over the summer but has returned to the North East to re-join Blyth for the National League North run.

'I’ve been in constant contact with Acky since he left and I was wanting to sign him back since he cancelled his contract in January but we never had any funds,' said Alun Armstrong. 'With Fewster wanting to leave that freed up the funds required. We might be short of a CF to sit on the bench but not many people will do what Fewster has done this year, the lad needs games so I didn’t want to stand in his way.'

With only one recognised striker at the club, Armstrong was keen to have a look at the up and coming talent in the Spartans rank. 'We have young Jack Butler who can do that job now as he’s been doing really well at Ashington. Atkinson will hopefully strengthen a side that has conceded the fourth most goals in the division as Armstrong looks to balance his side.

'Everyone knows how good a defender Acky is,' lauded the 44-year-old. 'To be honest he’s probably one of the best defenders in the league. He did have offers from other clubs but we have a good working relationship and he decided to come back to Blyth with me. Defensively we haven’t been great this year, conceding way too many goals and we need to be a lot better, he will help us massively in that department. The big bonus is he can play anywhere along the back line and as a CDM. Having players who can play multiple positions is something that I need going forward with what I’ll have at my disposal next year.'

Atkinson will be available when his International Clearance comes through".

MONDAY SCORE

• Curzon Ashton 1-0 Guiseley (att. 271)

SUPPORTERS' TRAVEL TO YORK

"Saturday 9th March is the date of what could be our last ever visit to Bootham Crescent in York before their move and TASC are running a coach with the details on the Away Travel page.

Due to your support we are able to offer cheaper fares to this game. If you've considered coming to an away match before then we hope you might join us on this trip, priced the same as when we last visited in 2010.

We offer a smart modern vehicle with a family friendly atmosphere suitable for all ages and we have travellers old and young come with us.

We don't allow alcohol to make sure we preserve this but always arrive in time for a drink before the game or to have a wander and see the local area if you prefer.

We'll be stopping at the services for 30 mins on this trip on the way down, with a toilet stop on the way home to get you back for evening arrangements.

You can book by calling the club on 0161 928 1045. We've had some enjoyable trips this season already, so why not join us and support the coaches and team as we push on together".

BLYTH SPARTANS AT MOSS LANE

After a scrappy start in difficult breezy conditions, Altrincham went ahead in the 34th minute when Lawrie did well on the right and his low cross was put into the net by a stretching Marlon Broomes. When some tricky dribbling from Lawrie drew a foul challenge very early in the second half, Damian Reeves blasted the ball home for his 33rd goal of the season.

But Blyth then came back into the game and pulled a goal back when Armstrong headed home after 54 minutes. Despite having substitute Mason sent off by a straight-red offence, off the ball against Clee in the 84th minute, the ten men from Northumberland still had a lot of the attacking play but Altrincham hung on to claim the three points. Blyth were relegated at the end of the season.

Right: Marlon Broomes (nearer camera) and Mark Lynch both made their home debuts for Altrincham against Blyth in 2012.

Despite the season being well advanced, Altrincham fielded a back five which was largely new to the Moss Lane faithful. Loanee-goalkeeper Joe Collister and central defender Marlon Broomes had made just one previous start but, in each case, this had been in an away game, whilst left-back Mark Lynch was making his club debut. At right-back Kieran Walmsley was making his sixth start, of which only three had previously been in the back line, whilst Matty Flynn, who had six Alty appearances under his belt was, nevertheless, starting for the first time at centre-back.

Although the central midfield was more familiar, Shaun Densmore and Chris Lynch had only started together three times in those positions previously. Nicky Clee reverted to the left side of midfield after his last three starts had been at left back, whilst James Lawrie was starting his first game in the no.9 shirt, in tandem with Damian Reeves up front, after previously playing on the flanks predominantly. As well as Mark Lynch, Alty had made another signing since their last game, in the shape of forward, John Miles, also from Stockport County. John was named on the bench for this match so there was no place for James Holden or Adam Flynn in the squad, whilst goalkeeper Stuart Coburn continued his recovery from his elbow injury.

Alty rested Jack Redshaw as he had been working hard with his new club Morecambe during a recent spell of Alty inactivity, so he was named on the bench today, as his loan spell back from the Shrimps neared its conclusion.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Joe COLLISTER, 2. Kieran WALMSLEY, 5.Matt FLYNN, 6. Marlon BROOMES, 3. Mark LYNCH; 7. Simon RICHMAN, 8. Shaun DENSMORE (capt), 4. Chris LYNCH, 11. Nicky CLEE; 9. James LAWRIE, 10. Damian REEVES. Subs: 12. Mark LEES, 14.John MILES, 15. Michael TWISS, 16. Jack REDSHAW, 18 Adam REID (gk).

BLYTH SPARTANS: 1. Robert Birdsall, 2. Dan Groves, 3. Joe Kendrick, 4. Sebastian Anzavui, 5. Wayne Buchanan, 6. Jordan Mellish, 7. Shaun Utterson, 8. Neal Hooks, 9.Graeme Armstrong, 10. Glen Taylor, 11. Wayne Phillips. Subs: 12 Jamie Mole, 17 David Knight, 14. Sam Hodgson, 15. Phil Cave, 16. Lee Mason.

PARKY PROVED RIGHT

Parkinson said it was nice to stretch their lead with a win. 'They were one point behind us but the win gives us that little bit of breathing space now,' he told the club's video service. 'We need to open up that gap even more if we can because Bernard and Jonno are a very good management team and they won’t be accepting that.

Right: During a break in play for treatment to Chester's keeper, manager Phil Parkinson gives instructions to his team. Left to right, we see Joe Piggott (in the background), Yusifu Ceesay, Connor Hampson, Josh Hancock and Sean Williams. In the foreground, kitman Steve Foster arrives with more water bottles.

'I said at the Spennymoor game when people were starting to get a little unsettled, and we lost, I knew we would bounce back, I knew were starting to play again.'

After previously only seeing one win in their last six home games, Parkinson praised the fans for sticking with it.

He said, 'We know it’s hard when we lose because of the expectation. The fans were brilliant today, my son was here so I wanted him to experience them in full flow. It’s amazing here when you win. It’s the best feeling in the world, I can’t explain it to people'".

TWO IN TEAM OF THE WEEKEND

• Goalkeeper: George Willis (Boston United)
• Defenders: Shane Byrne (Brackley Town), Sean Newton (York City), Andy White (Altrincham), Jordan Cullinane-Liburd (Hereford)
• Midfielders: Josh Hancock (Altrincham), Sam Walker (Stockport County), Bobby Johnson (Alfreton Town)
• Strikers: Ashley Chambers (Kidderminster Harriers), Jake Beesley (Bradford (Park Avenue), Jack Sampson (Southport)
• Substitutes: Ryan Johnson (Kidderminster Harriers), Ash Palmer (Stockport County), Glenn Walker (Brackley Town), Alex Kempster (York City), Harvey Saunders (Darlington)
• Manager of the Weekend: Kevin Wilkin (Brackley Town)

Brackley backed up their promotion credentials with another fine win on the road. The Saints have dropped just four points from nine league games in 2019. Another fine win at Blyth Spartans and you wouldn't bet against Wilkin's men going all the way!"

LATICS TRACK JOE

Joe Piggott : After netting a hat-trick in a 6-0 victory against Curzon Ashton the weekend before, Development Squad striker Joe Piggott made it four goals in two matches when he got the ball rolling in Altrincham's 4-0 victory over Chester FC on Saturday".

One of the Latics' other loanees in Altrincham's division is Olly Crankshaw at Curzon Ashton... "Development Squad winger Olly Crankshaw set up both goals from corner kicks, with the Nash pulling level for 1-1 and taking a 2-1 lead, only for the hosts to claw a point back".

NEXT SATURDAY'S HOSTS: YORK CITY

• 1. Just one free kick conceded in City’s own half suggests a very well-drilled outfit. Knowing Leamington’s reputation as a direct side who boast an aerial threat in penalty boxes, City chief Steve Watson stressed the need for his team to give away as few set-pieces as possible ahead of the game. Given his players have looked most susceptible at dead-ball deliveries, too, only served to crank up the importance of cutting off such a threat at its source..

  In fact, an impressive 25 minutes had passed before Hamza Bencherif committed the visitors’ first infringement of the afternoon deep in the opponents’ half, highlighting how closely the players had heeded Watson’s pre-match warning...

• 2. Alex Kempster is turning into the team’s best goal poacher. With four goals in eight outings, no player has now contributed more goals in open play under Steve Watson than the rejuvenated Alex Kempster. Having failed to start a single match under Watson’s predecessor Sam Collins, resulting in a loan spell at Spennymoor where he was only used as a substitute, Kempster has become one of the first names on the club’s team sheet, with the distinction of being one of only two outfield players to have kicked off every game during the ex-Gateshead boss’ stewardship; Jordan Burrow is the other.

  Three of Kempster’s goals have been predatory strikes, where he has reacted quickest to hit the back of the net in crowded penalty boxes...

• 3. Centre-back Hamza Bencherif is belatedly making his penalty-box presence count. After taking 83 games to claim his first goal in City colours, Hamza Bencherif has netted three times in his last seven outings and also claimed his first assist of the campaign at Leamington... With Paddy McLaughlin’s set-piece quality now part of the Minstermen’s armoury, there is no reason why Bencherif and fellow centre-halves David Mirfin and Sean Newton can’t weigh in with further goals this term. With Bencherif perhaps set to return to substitute duty when Mirfin recovers from his facial wound, it is also now far from outlandish to suggest that the 31-year-old defender could even be hailed from the bench in an emergency striker role...

• 4. The Minstermen CAN defend 1-0 leads. An inability to secure solid 1-0 wins drove former boss Martin Gray to distraction during his time as City chief. It was also a scoreline that would elude Gray’s successor Sam Collins, meanwhile, during any of his 20 league matches at the helm. Watson’s first single-goal triumph in his eighth contest in charge, though, saw the club defend a 1-0 lead for the longest period in a league game since... the 2013/14 march into the League Two play-offs...

• 5. The extent of City’s renaissance will be truly tested against Altrincham. City’s 3-0 defeat at Altrincham back in mid-November was as comprehensive as any other this season, with the hosts carrying a potency and threat down the flanks that saw Sam Collins’s then charges relieved to escape Cheshire without a bigger humbling. That attacking ability doesn’t seem to have diminished with the play-off hopefuls having plundered ten goals in their last two matches... to establish themselves as National League North’s second-top marksmen.

  Nobody wants to detract from City’s last four wins, given the club’s past struggles to beat even the most modest of opponents, but the matches have represented a favourable run of fixtures with Leamington having won one of their last 15 contests prior to Saturday and Nuneaton, the previous weekend’s visitors to Bootham Crescent, just one in 21. Kidderminster, meanwhile, had suffered six defeats in nine outings prior to meeting the Minstermen and Ashton United lost nine of their previous 12 fixtures.

  With City having suffered seven defeats from ten meetings against the sides currently occupying positions one to seven in the National League North table, this weekend’s match should certainly provide an accurate and intriguing gauge of the progress made by the team under Watson since his reign kicked off with back-to-back losses against top-two Chorley (1-4) and Stockport (1-3)".

CHESTER BOSS CAN'T DEFEND HIS CAPTAIN

Burton's sending off was pivotal... Burton later apologised publicly on Twitter for his sending off even going as far to offer to contribute to Chester fans' transport costs to the next away game but Morley was in no mood for platitudes after the final whistle...

Said Morley, 'Once Scott was sent off it was doom and gloom after that. An apology doesn't make it right and, as a man's man, I don't want to go into the changing room and hear my captain say sorry, because it is a token gesture. When you've been booked you can't go to ground and, in my opinion, it was a second yellow. Altrincham are a very good possession side and it is hard enough against them with 11 men. They will pass it around for 45 minutes, tire you out, suck you in and hit you on the counter like they did...

'I can't defend what I see and I can't legislate for the goals we concede', added Morley. 'Especially after the performance we put in the first half where I thought we showed resilience against a great passing side. We set traps and took the ball off them but we didn't take our chances and when you don't take your chances at this level of football you're going to allow the opposition to get back in the game, which is what we did in the second half. What they are good at we stopped them doing in the first half which is why we've gifted them the game in the second half by going down to ten men.

'It became a training session for Altrincham after that. We crumbled and I don't think I've got the answers why we did that'".

Cheshire Live adds that "Saturday's second half collapse at Altrincham meant it was a miserable weekend for Chester FC fans... But grasping for positives there was at least one.

Prior to the game there was a welcome return to the green grass for striker Matty Hughes as he was able to take some part in the pre-match warm up with his teammates. Hughes, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury back in October , had surgery that same month and has been hard at work on his rehabilitation. He won't be playing a part this season but he has one eye on next season and joint-manager Anthony Johnson confirmed, when speaking at the Senior Blues meeting on Friday, that Hughes would be invited back for pre-season training and would be afforded the chance to prove his fitness in order to win a deal with Chester for next season.

Hughes was left unable to work in his day job, which involves him working with concrete, for a number of months following the injury and his teammates, Chester fans and the wider football community came together to help raise funds for him to get by .

Speaking to the Chronicle last month, Hughes stated his intention to return back in the summer and win a deal with Chester".

After Saturday's game, the Chester Standard's Jamie Bowman reported on "How the Chester players rated,...

• GRANT SHENTON: Awful error for Alty's third and probably should have done better for their fourth too. Not a great day at the office. 3/10
• MATTY WATERS: Did well in the first half but faded as did many around him. 5
• BRADLEY JACKSON: A committed performance full of the forward bursts which are making him such a good signing this season. 7
• STEVE HOWSON: Battled hard at centre back and couldn't really be faulted. 6
• DANNY LIVESEY: Livesey and Howson weren't really the problem and the centre backs remain solid. 6
• GARY ROBERTS: Battled well in the first half but was overrun in midfield once Burton was sent off. 6
• SCOTT BURTON: Was playing well but daft bookings ensured he let the team down badly. 5
• DAN MOONEY: Totally ineffective on the wing and constantly lost possession. 3
• CRAIG MAHON: Started really well and won a number of good tackles but disappeared after Chester went behind. 6
• ANTHONY DUDLEY: Tried his best and won a number of challenges but had little support. 6
• GEORGE WARING: Too static and missed a massive chance in the second half. 4
• BEN MCKENNA: Could do little to stem the tied when he came on after the second goal. 5
• SEAN MCALLISTER: Game was up by the time he came on. 5
• LLOYD MARSH-HUGHES: A few decent runs and worked hard despite the game being lost. 6"

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

After being seen by an eye specialist at a hospital in Lincoln, Wycherley was discharged and will now have his progress monitored back at home.

Boss Gavin Cowan said, 'We will keep you updated over the next few days'.

Joe Bursik came off the bench to replace the 20-year-old, who has been told by doctors to be ‘extremely cautious’, but the Stoke loanee cannot play in this month’s two-legged FA Trophy semi-final against Leyton Orient because he is cup-tied. The Bucks led Saturday’s National North fixture through an early Daniel Udoh goal, the striker’s 23rd of the season, but then spurned opportunities to take charge of the game.

Asked whether he regarded it as a point gained or two dropped, Cowan said 'I think the next week or so will tell. We’ve got two home games now (against Darlington and FC United), so I think the result will be defined by those. I’ve very mixed feelings; I thought we were very much in control in the first half, but we need to be more ruthless and clinical, which is something I’ve said before and something we’ve got to address.'

There was also another surprise before the game, with Adam Dawson, who left the club for Chester amid some rancour in November, returning on loan from Macclesfield Town for the rest of the season."

JOE ENJOYING LIFE AT ALTY

Joe confirms that Alty manager Phil Parkinson managed to get the matchball as a memento for Joe. As for being at Alty he said, "I'm really enjoying it here. It's good to get game time and play men's football, which I feel I need to keep improving".

After a loan at Morecambe, where he did not get much game time, Joe added, "It was still a good experience for me. I thought my next loan move was one where I really needed to play. They're really helping me out in training and the gaffer is good, telling me what he wants me to do during games..

"In the League now, you see players where their first few loans have been in non-League. It helped them because it's more physical and I think it's helping me.

"It's a good standard of football and we're right in the promotion run. It's good to be part of when three points means everything on a Saturday.

"Under-23s football is about developing as well as winning games so it's nice to have both sides. I train at Wigan through the week and play in games [for them] on Tuesdays, if Altrincham are not playing, so I'm getting the best of both worlds.

"We play some nice football as well. It's always nice to be in a team where it's not just being hit back and forth.

"I can play in a team that does that because I hold the ball up and it's how I really play. But playing through the thirds and playing nice football is good because you get on the ball more and, hopefully, get more goals".

ALTRINCHAM POST-MATCH VIEWS

The National League has highlights of Saturday's game.

CHESTER FC POST-MATCH VIEWS

Morley said the way his side reacted to the sending off worked in Altrincham's favour. 'This is a side he’s (Phil Parkinson) had for 18-months', he told the club's video service. 'They understand each other’s strengths and they’re a great passing side. But what they’re good at, we stopped them doing it in the first-half. We’ve actually gifted them the game in the second-half by going down to ten men; we don’t help ourselves.

'People will question whether we can manage against [?with] ten men. It’s having the players to be able to do that and we clearly don’t have the players. We just don’t seem to have that mentality, but it takes time to install into them. But firstly, we have to stop going down to ten men. For me, it’s been far too often.'

Chester's form on the road has also been an issue this season. Only Nuneaton Borough have been worse on their travels than Morley's side.

'I don’t like to be labelled a side that can only win at home. I do feel like we can do this as a team but we’re running out of time and we’re running out of excuses'".

But Cheshire Live adds that "Chester FC joint-manager Bernard Morley said the their second half capitulation at Altrincham was a collective failure and can't simply be blamed on the red card for Scott Burton. The better side in the first half at Moss Lane, Chester fell apart in the second half after skipper Burton saw red on 51 minutes for a second bookable offence, eventually falling to a damaging 4-0 defeat...

But it was the manner of the collapse that was most galling against the Robins after Chester seemed to have sussed out the home side and stifled their attacking threat in the first half, only to crumble once going down to ten men six minutes into the second.

Morley said 'We don't learn from our lessons. Scott got booked first half and we know he is that type of player who likes to tackle but I feel like he was following his touch on both yellow cards. When you've been booked you can't go to ground. The lad [Sean Williams] had momentum and he came down, whether he made connection or not he is involved because of his first touch. To have a chance of winning a game of football it is imperative that you keep 11 on the pitch.

'You don't have a chance (with ten men) against a side like Altrincham. I have got to give them credit; they are a very good possession side. Against 11 men it is hard enough to close them down. They work hard off the ball, they'll just pass for 45 minutes, tire you out and hit you on the counter like they did today.

'We gifted them the game second half going down to ten men and it became a training session for Altrincham after that. The first half performance was a performance where we looked a bad side away from home. I thought we solid, it took the first 15 minutes for us to get into the game but after that we had chances and I thought we were the better side and we got in at half time and it was a perfect game plan, you go into the second half and don't give them a chance to get into the game'...

'We didn't have enough time in that transition with Scott getting sent off to the information on', said Morley. 'But, as a group, we should know you've got to fill gaps. If you are a centre forward and you have to drop into midfield then that is what you've got to do until we get information onto the pitch. The manner we concede goals, I've never known a side concede goals like we do and ultimately that is mine and Jonno's fault. It is something we work on in training and we don't concede those goals but when we come into games we concede a goal and crumble and it is something we are trying our best to put right.

'It's all right blaming Scott but we missed big chances. George (Waring) missed a big chance which was bread and butter for George and everything is a different scenario if that goes in. But we all deserved to be blamed collectively and people will lose faith in us, if they haven't already. We have to dust ourselves down, there is nine games to go. There is definitely a good side out there, we know that from Blyth and Boston."

Also from Cheshire Live we read that "At half time it seemed as if this might be the game where Chester FC turned around their away day hoodoo.

It is a result that saw Chester slip to ninth, three points off the play-offs. They somehow cling on in there despite this damaging defeat that saw a worrying second half capitulation... It has been on the road where Chester have fallen away this season, winning just three of their 16 games away from home before today... And facing an Altrincham side in a rich vein of form... it was a tall order facing Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley's men at Moss Lane".

Referee Kitchen shows Burton (behind him) the way to the dressing room, as Sean Williams picks himself up after the Chester captain's foul.

Further reaction is also found in a Cheshire Live report to the effect that "Chester FC captain Scott Burton shouldered the blame for the second half collapse that lead to the Blues suffering a damaging 4-0 defeat at Altrincham. Burton was shown a second yellow card by referee Andrew Kitchen at Moss Lane after bringing down Sean Williams near the halfway line at Moss Lane just six minutes into the second half...

Burton's sending off changed the game completely and he took to Twitter on Saturday night to apologise to Blues fans, with hundreds making the journey up the M56.

He wrote 'I take the blame for the defeat today. We were on top till the red and I hold my hands up and apologise to my teammates, the gaffers and the fans. Honest mistake but I didn’t touch him (Williams) and pulled out of the tackle last second, it was never a second yellow but, like I said, I take all the blame'.

And Burton, who has only recently come back into the squad following a lengthy injury lay off, went one step further, pledging to put some money towards the cost of away travel for the next Chester game on the road.

'It's always hard with 10 men', he wrote. 'After today I will pay some money towards the coach journey for the fans' next away game.'".

MATTHEW CHADWICK

ALTY OLD BOYS

Another former loanee, Jonny Margetts, netted Matlock Town's winner, whilst Joe Mwasile was involved in a goal scored by Nantwich Town. Danny Mitchley captained his Marine side to a goalless draw against Stafford Rangers, whilst James Walshaw's goal for Scarborough Athletic could not prevent them losing to Witton Albion.

LADIES

WALKOVER FOR YOUTH TEAM

• AFC Fylde 1 - 5 Curzon Ashton
• Chester FC 10 - 0 Mersey Royal
• Chorley 3 - 4 Hyde United
• Southport 13 - 0 Stockport Georgians

Altrincham's next scheduled match is in the Open Cup, next Sunday, at home to Salford.

NEXT OPPONENTS: BLYTH SPARTANS

The 22-year old plied his trade in the Scottish Pyramid after leaving the Hartlepool United academy spending time at Ross County, Stirling and Stenhousemuir before signing for Gateshead on a one-year deal last July.

Foden has made two appearances in the National League for the Tynesiders this season".

On Saturday Blyth Spartans reported how "Three goals in 13 first half minutes from Brackley Town downed a subdued Blyth Spartans at Croft Park. Dan Maguire’s 20th goal of the season had given the hosts the lead inside 10 minutes, but the playoff contenders soon rallied.

Shane Byrne converted a 25th minute penalty after debutant Mark Foden fouled Lee Ndlovu – Gareth Dean’s header five minutes later turning the game on its head before Byrne added a third in the 37th minute.

The visitors produced a defensively astute second half display, which saw Blyth create very little, but all eyes will be on Foden’s disastrous debut... The tide turned on 25 minutes when Ndlovu’s run into the area wasn’t tracked and Foden brought down the striker. Byrne fired his penalty into the top right-hand corner to level.

Five minutes later Foden then misjudged a Byrne corner, flailing an arm in the face of Dean who bundled the header into an empty net.

Worse was to come for Spartans when Matt Lowe ran free down the right flank before picking out Byrne on the edge of the area; the midfielder striking through a sea of bodies straight past Foden.

Blyth Spartans | 4-2-3-1 | Foden; Horner, Laing, Buddle, J Watson; Green (Butler), Oliver; Rivers, Reid (Dale), Holmes (Wrightson); Maguire. Unused | Mullen, Nicholson"

And Blyth Spartans add that "Midfielder Kieran Green was a despondent figure after Blyth Spartans’ 3-1 defeat at the hands of Brackley Town on Saturday afternoon, and issued a rather unusual rally cry to his team-mates.

'We need to just be boring', said the 21-year-old who’s first half tenacity led to the opening goal. 'We are either on top of the world, everything is going for us, getting the rub of the green or nothing is going for us. We need to learn find that middle ground and be boring.'

Spartans have won just one of their last eight fixtures, this coming off a run of 14-games unbeaten.

'It is brilliant when things are going our way, but we need to learn when things aren’t that we can be boring and grind out results'...

Alun Armstrong’s side have conceded 56 goals in 32 league games this season, which is the fourth worst record in the division, and since returning [to] the National League North last season, Blyth have conceded 125 goals in 74 games, but Green says the blame lies with the entire squad.

'We need to be more defensively adept,' said Green, 'But that is as a team. The back four have been our best players the past couple of games. We are killing them all over the pitch, we are leaving them with pressure because we do not tuck in and ride a storm when we have to.

'When we are having a bit of a tough time in a game, we need to just tuck in as a team and ride it out, regroup and start building the attacks again'.

At the other end of the field Blyth have thrived since returning to the sixth tier, scoring 128 goals in those 74 games, resulting in unrivalled entertainment for the neutral viewer, but perhaps not the Spartans' faithful.

'We can play this game really well, creating chance after chance, but it is always in the back of our minds that there is going to be that point in the game where we switch off. We concede daft silly goals and chances week in week out, and as a team we need to correct that and stop being so gung-ho'".

ALTRINCHAM 4-0 CHESTER FC

After a first half largely lacking in goalmouth action, Thompson's full-length save being the nearest to a goal, the second half started with Altrincham all over the place at the back. Indeed, had Waring not made a hash of good chance to head at goal, the visitors might have taken a 48th minute lead.

Right: Joe Piggott celebrates the opening goal.

But then Chester captain Scott Burton, who earlier this week had revealed that he had joined Chester after summer overtures from Altrincham, was sent off for a second yellow-card offence, a foul on Williams.

Barely a minute later Altrincham took the lead when Hancock laid on a close-range goal for Joe Piggott to add to his hat-trick at Curzon Ashton last time out. Alty then doubled the lead in the 63rd minute when Hancock drove the ball home after Johnston had got the ball across goal from the right at the third attempt, following two defensive blocks.

Five minutes after that Hancock himself netted a third Altrincham goal from close range. With Johnston running repeatedly at the defence and Chester showing little real fight, a fourth goal arrived in the ninetieth minute. Richman's effort was touched in by Johnston to complete the scoring.

CHESTER VIEW

Following the man advantage, Joe Piggott, Josh Hancock twice and John Johnston did the damage at Moss Lane.

The Blues were unchanged from Tuesday’s win over Blyth Spartans, but did welcome back Ben McKenna, Akwasi Asante and Simon Grand to the squad following injuries. It was a first half which yielded little in terms of chances but the Blues worked hard despite lacking a cutting edge....

Chester threatened to create big chances... Already booked following a shirt pull, captain Burton was given his marching orders for a second yellow after a lunge in the middle of the park.

A minute later, Altrincham made the man advantage count as loanee Joe Piggott turned home after good work from Hancock. Hancock, Alty’s top scorer in the league, then helped himself to a brace in the space of six minutes.

First, he lashed one into the back of the net from just inside the box. Then on 69 minutes he was alert in front of goal to turn home after Shenton had parried from Jake Moult...

Sub Simon Richman shot low towards goal, and Johnston sealed an excellent afternoon for the hosts, diverting the ball into the net".

ANd Cheshire Live says that "At half time it seemed as if this might be the game where Chester FC turned around their away day hoodoo. A battling first half full of heart and commitment and where Chester were the better side had the away support hoping of something positive on their travels at last.

But when Scott Burton was shown a red card for a second yellow card on 51 minutes it turned the game on its head and goals from Joe Pigott, a Josh Hancock double and one at the death from Josh Hancock meant brought a scoreline that seemed unthinkable at the break.

But it has been on the road where Chester have fallen away this season, winning just three of their 16 games away from home, a run that has cost them in their push for an immediate return for the National League".

RESERVES DRAW A BLANK

SATURDAY GATES

• Att. 413 Alfreton Town 2 - 0 Ashton United
• Att. 1714 Altrincham 4 - 0 Chester
• Att. 651 Blyth Spartans 1 - 3 Brackley Town
• Att. 993 Boston United 2 - 2 AFC Telford United
• Att. TBC Bradford (Park Avenue) 2 - 2 Curzon Ashton (Ryan Brooke netted for Curzon)
• Att. 1213 Darlington 1 - 1 Chorley
• Att. 2058 FC United of Manchester 2 - 2 Hereford
• Att. 761 Guiseley 0 - 1 Southport
• Att. 1539 Kidderminster Harriers 4 - 1 Nuneaton Borough
• Att. 801 Leamington 0 - 1 York City
• Att. 6311 Stockport County 1 - 0 Spennymoor Town

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Symons scored in the 17th minute against FC United of Manchester to cancel out former Bull Chris Sharp's opener six minutes before, with Eliot Richards's fierce strike in the second half putting the Bulls in front.

But despite defending well for much of the second half, a deflected free kick in the 90th minute saw Hereford leave Broadhurst Park with a share of the spoils

'It was one of the most frustrating afternoons and it's happened quite a bit recently, silly goals,' Symons said. 'You don't mind if the score an absolute worldie and get back in the game but a deflected goal kills it. I thought the boys in defence did so well second half at times to be fair. It's gut-wrenching and it kills your weekend really as a player'...

He added 'We were sloppy the first ten minutes, I think everyone could see that, a bit sluggish in possession and then, until half time, we were the better team, created numerous chances and got ourselves back in the game... Going in at half time 1-1 thinking we can come out second half and we started well again for ten minutes.

'Eliot's scored an unbelievable strike and then that's when we need to be a bit braver. We sat off a bit and that's where on the pitch we need to take a bit more responsibility, and keep doing what we're doing because it was working. They're going to cheat it a bit more because they've got nothing to lose, they kept more players forward and it was hard to press them high. That sucker punch at the end to concede was gutting'".

SATURDAY'S RESULTS

• Alfreton Town 2-0 Ashton United
• Altrincham 4-0 Chester FC
• Blyth Spartans 1-3 Brackley Town
• Boston United 2-2 AFC Telford United
• Bradford (Park Avenue) 2-2 Curzon Ashton
• Darlington 1-1 Chorley
• FC United of Manchester 2-2 Hereford
• Guiseley 0-1 Southport
• Kidderminster Harriers 4-1 Nuneaton Borough
• Leamington 0-1 York City
• Stockport County 1-0 Spennymoor Town

NEW SIGNING

In addition to having two spells at Hurst Cross, Chadwick has previously played for several clubs in the Tameside and Manchester area, including Stalybridge Celtic, Mossley, Chadderton, Radcliffe Borough and Salford City.

In mid-February 2019, the NL Paper announced that "Ashton United have been hit by the news that attacker Matthew Chadwick will be leaving the club. The former Salford City and Radcliffe Borough man had developed a cult hero reputation at Hurst Cross, during his long association with the club and was a key part of the side that won promotion to Step 2 last season.

Chadwick has made 21 appearances for the Robins this campaign, finding the net on seven occasions and has finished as the club’s top goalscorer in several of the past seasons".

This season Chadwick played against Alty in the league match at Moss Lane (27 October) and was also involved in clashes between the two clubs last season in the EvoStik Premier. He is pictured, right, in the no.9 shirt at Hurst Cross in the league match against Altrincham on 24 February 2018.

For more on this, see the official Altrincham FC website.

BEFORE THE GAME

Alty's historical record against Chester FC is provided by Mike Garnett...

• Home: P5-W2-D1-L2-F9-A10
• Away: P4-W2-D1-L1-F5-A4
• All: P9-W4-D2-L3-F14-A14

As recorded here earlier, that was the game in which current Alty keeper Tony Thompson played for Chester, wearing an Alty jersey emblasoned with Stuart Coburn's name on the back!

Of the 16-man Altrincham squad in that game, only Jake Moult and Simon Richman (right) remain at Moss Lane today.

ALTRINCHAM: 17. Tim DEASY, 6. Scott LEATHER, 12. Sam HEATHCOTE, 28. Marcus HOLNESS, 3. Adam GRIFFIN, 4. Jake MOULT (capt), 8. Simon RICHMAN, 19. Ryan CROWTHER, 15. Josh GINNELLY, 27. Jonathon MARGETTS, 9. Michael RANKINE. Subs: 10. Damian REEVES, 14. Josh O'KEEFE, 7. James LAWRIE, 23. Callum WILLIAMS, 22. Harry CAIN

CHESTER FC: 13. Tony Thompson, 4. Danny O'Brien, 22 Ben Heneghan, 6. Ian Sharps, 7. Ryan Astles, 7. Craig Mahon, 10 John Rooney, 11 Jordan Chapell, 12. Sam Hughes, 26. Ryan Lloyd, 9 Ross Hannah, Subs: 23 James Alabi, 13. Kane Richards, 1. Jon Worsnop, 2. Ryan Higgins, 3. Johnny Hunt.

CHESTER MAN "NEARLY JOINED ALTY"

The Moss Lane outfit are one of only two sides to beat the Blues at the Deva this season when they registered a 2-1 victory in November.

Chester made amends for their embarrassing 8-1 defeat at Blyth Spartans on Tuesday with a 2-0 home win over the North East side and Burton is now looking for something similar when they make the short trip to Greater Manchester.

'Coming into the Blyth game after what they did to us at their place we had to go at them,' said Burton. 'With an 8-1 defeat you can’t help but think about revenge and we were hoping to get an 8-1 win over them but it’s all about momentum going into Altrincham now. Again we’re looking for revenge because they came here and beat us.'

And the former Salford midfielder revealed that Altrincham are a club he could have been playing for, rather than against, tomorrow.

'I’ve played at Alty a few times and I nearly joined them in the summer,' said Burton. 'I spoke to their gaffer but I decided to come to Chester and join up again with Johnno and Bern. I’ve no regrets because I love it at Chester and the fans are getting behind us again. I’ve said it all along since I came to Chester that we will get in the play-offs and I still stand by what I said. I’ve been in this position before with various clubs.'

Tuesday’s win over Blyth witnessed a fine performance from goalscoring winger Craig Mahon and Burton believes the Irishman is key players if Chester are to convert their home form into performances on the road.

'At home our wingers are superb but, away from home, they shy away a bit and we tend to go long ball which is not really us,' he said. 'We’ve had a word with them. If they’re on it we’re on it. We have a little joke with Craig saying him and Dan Mooney are home players but we’re trying to change that and get them to perform away from home because we need them.'

Burton has impressed of late following his return from a long injury and he feels Chester fans are beginning to see the best of him.

'I’m feeling fit and sharp again,' he added. 'I have to try and maintain my knee because it does balloon up after games.'"

BAN STAYS ON CHESTER PLAYER

But the Blues believe they followed protocol on the Whole Game System, the portal used by clubs to manage bookings, red cards and appeals, and claim that the red card did not appear on the System until the following Tuesday (February 19) by which time the window of opportunity to appeal had passed.

This is refuted by Cheshire FA, who also say that match referee, Sam Mulhall, submitted his report three days after the game, not the eight suggested by Chester joint-manager Anthony Johnson after the win over Blyth Spartans on Tuesday, a claim made on the basis that the Blues were not able to view the referees report for that period of time.

In a statement given to the Chester Chronicle, the Cheshire FA claim that the onus was on Chester to appeal immediately after the sending off and that they did not have to wait for the red card to appear on the Whole Game System. Chester believe that they have been punished for following the protocol of the disciplinary process.

A Cheshire FA spokesperson said 'The Club should have informed us of their intention to submit a claim for wrongful dismissal as per FA regulations by Thursday (February 14) they did not. If the Club had done this they could have submitted their evidence by Monday, February 18 by 11.59pm. Because this was not done they did not comply with the required intention to claim for wrongful dismissal in time.

'Chester FC informed Cheshire FA of their intention to claim for wrongful dismissal and their evidence on Wednesday, February 20 via email, therefore any claim was out of time. The regulations start from when the sending off occurs i.e. when the player receives the red card and is sent off. It is incumbent upon the 'offending club' to police this process and act quickly....

The club knew of the sending off when it occurred and did not need to wait until it appeared on their Whole Game System to appeal. The club could have informed us of their intention to appeal the red card the next day, and they could have sent in evidence earlier than they did. The club did not do this and unfortunately ran out of time to appeal the sending off. The rules for appealing red cards are set by The FA, and not Cheshire FA. So in this instance there is nothing that we can do.

'We understand that this is a highly emotive subject. As a result, one of the easiest options is to blame the discipline process and not adherence to the rules and regulations'...

Green has already missed two games through suspension and will miss a further two, his ban extended from three games to four owing to the red card being his second of the season and his second since the turn of the year after being shown a red for two yellow cards in the win at FC United of Manchester in January.

While the Cheshire FA claim that the referee's report was received after the three days the Chronicle understands that the report and sending off was not uploaded to the Whole Game System until late on Monday, with Chester claiming they were not able to access the report and select the appeal process through the System during business hours on that day and first seeing its appearance on the Tuesday. This meant the that the application had timed out... As it stands Green will be banned for the next two games for the Blues."

SATURDAY'S FIXTURES

Jim Gannon’s men are on fire and have leaders Chorley firmly in their sights as they prepare to host third-place Spennymoor Town.

Chester joint-boss Anthony Johnson has challenged his team to reproduce their exceptional home form on the road. No better time like now; a trip to Altrincham provides a golden opportunity to climb back into the play-off places.

Brackley’s FA Trophy exit could be a blessing in disguise as they now turn their full attentions to cementing their top-seven finish. This week’s hosts Blyth Spartans aren’t fully out of the running yet ...

A win for Boston could do wonders for their hopes of a play-off place, they could reel in sixth-placed AFC Telford with a win in Lincolnshire.

Leaders Chorley head to Darlington hoping to stabilise their form while Steve Watson takes his York City side to Leamington.

[It has been] one apiece in the two games Hereford and FC United of Manchester have already played out this season. The Rebels desperately need a win to close the gap to safety.

Guiseley could be staring a double relegation in the face if they don’t start picking up points soon. With just one win since New Year’s Day, taking three points from Southport is a must.

It’s been a rollercoaster start for Mark Yates at Kidderminster Harriers but they’re firmly in the hunt. Nuneaton Borough are in town this week looking for their second win since October.

Curzon Ashton will be hoping a trip to Bradford (Park Avenue) can reignite their form after back-to-back defeats. Strugglers Ashton United have picked up some big wins on the road this season and will be hoping for more of the same against Alfreton."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Hereford Head Coach, Marc Richards, said 'Cameron has impressed in training, he’s fitted in well and it’s great to be able to sign him on and make him available for selection at the weekend. With a couple of injuries, and with James Waite still being suspended, he will give us some good cover and will add some competition to the squad.'

Hereford will also be able to officially welcome [goalkeeper] Jahquil Hill to the club after he received international clearance this week. The former Bulls trialist had agreed to sign at the start of February, but a delay with his paperwork meant that he has been unable to be selected in a matchday squad until now."

More on this comes from the Hereford FC who confimr that "Ebbutt has signed for Hereford FC ahead of their trip to FC United of Manchester. The former Bristol Rovers youngster has previously been on loan at Yate Town and played at Dorchester Town".

According to the Shropshire Star, "AFC Telford United skipper Shane Sutton insists the high hopes he had upon joining the club are being realised. Experienced centre-half Sutton signed for the Bucks in the summer of 2017 and had a difficult first season, fighting against relegation in National League North.

But now they are in the play-off mix and in the FA Trophy semi-finals. And the 29-year-old is out to continue the feel-good factor by winning at Boston United in the league tomorrow.

'We’re bringing smiles back on people’s faces', said Sutton. 'It’s about enjoying the last several weeks of the season now. We’re 13 points off the top but we’re not exactly out of the title race altogether, and we’re pushing for a play-off position while also being in the Trophy semis. This is definitely what I came to the club for.

'I had a lot of fun at Newtown, some great years and big games, but I was looking for success when I came here. So, hopefully, this season is just the start of a few successful years for the club'".

York Press reports that "Leamington will play host to York City tomorrow having won just one of their last 15 matches.

The Warwickshire side’s sole success in just over three months came during a 3-0 home triumph against play-off hopefuls Altrincham at the end of January, but eight matches have also been drawn during the barren period.

Leamington’s indifferent run of results has seen the side drop to sixth-bottom... with a six-point cushion over the relegation spots. Draws have featured heavily during the Brakes’ 2018/19 season, especially at home, where seven matches have ended with honours even, a tally that only fourth-bottom Guiseley, with eight, can beat.

Paul Holleran’s men have also shared the spoils 2-2 on a surprising EIGHT occasions this term, which has been the final scoreline during their only three previous meetings against the Minstermen. The club’s high draw frequency, meanwhile, contributes to a record of just five defeats on their own soil, a number that cannot be bettered outside the division’s top-eight teams.

Indeed, 13th-placed Curzon Ashton are the only side currently positioned in the bottom half of the table to have won at the New Windmill Ground this term, with the other away successes secured by title-challenging pair Stockport and Spennymoor, along with Kidderminster and Blyth.

Leamington’s four home triumphs have all been registered against top-half teams with promotion aspirations, however, with Boston, Bradford Park Avenue, Chester and Altrincham. having all been put to the sword.

The home side will be without former Telford attacking midfielder Kieran Dunbar, who is out for the remainder of the campaign, having undergone an operation to address damaged cartilage in his knee. Connor Taylor could be back in the reckoning after missing recent matches through injury, but Callum Gittings remains doubtful due to an ankle problem.

Target-man Colby Bishop, who bagged a brace in the corresponding fixture at Bootham Crescent in December, is still Leamington’s biggest threat despite having penalties saved during the last two matches that, ultimately, cost his team points in narrow defeats to Spennymoor (0-1) and Blyth (1-2).

Despite those setbacks, Bishop still has 16 goals to his name this season, having only returned from ten months on the sidelines in October due to cruciate ligament damage. Even without converting his spot-kick opportunities, the 22-year-old forward has still netted five times in the last six matches, and is particularly threatening on familiar turf. The ex-Notts County player, who also spent spells at Gloucester, Worcester and Boston United before joining Leamington in July 2017, has plundered nine goals in the past ten New Windmill Ground fixtures and ten of his 16-strong haul have been scored at home.

He has taken over the baton left behind by Matthew Stenson, who had hit the target eight times this term before joining National League title contenders Solihull Moors for an undisclosed fee in October. The ex-Barwell forward has found opportunities more restricted in Tim Flowers’ team, with just four starts in his 14 appearances and contributing only one goal".

Also from York Press we learn that "York City right-back Nathan Dyer has signed professional terms at Bootham Crescent. The Malton-born, 18-year-old made his senior debut for the Minstermen during the 3-0 FA Cup third qualifying round victory against St Ives Town and racked up nine further appearances under Sam Collins’s stewardship.

He is yet to feature in a matchday squad under new boss Steve Watson, but the former Newcastle full-back has previously stated that Dyer figures in the club’s plans for the future... Dyer said 'I only live half an hour away in Malton, so I’m pretty much playing for my local team... I don't think I looked out of place when I played for the first team. I thought I did well, and I just want to kick-on now. I still need to progress and get better'".

According to Cheshire Live "Chester FC midfielder Rhain Hellawell said he was 'overwhelmed and lost for words' after he was surprised with a superb gesture at the Blues' Academy Race Night last week. Hellawell, 19, has been sidelined for much of this year with a knee injury almost identical to that suffered by fellow midfielders Scott Burton and Gary Stopforth and, like the duo, requiring him to have an operation.

The Academy graduate had been on loan at Barnoldswick Town and Widnes earlier this season and had been earning rave reviews but a knee injury had dogged him throughout the campaign until the point that the only option to clear it up was to go under the knife. The Blues weren't in a position to pay for the operation, with the cost in the thousands, and Hellawell's family covered the cost.

But at the Academy Race Night at the Swansway Chester Stadium last week, which raised over £3,000 for the youth set-up at the club, there was a surprise in store for the teenager, orchestrated by Academy head coach Calum McIntyre.

Unbeknown to Hellawell, the proceeds of a 'Deal or No Deal' game and donations on the night would be presented to him, with the total reaching £1,000 to help go some way to covering the costs of his operation. Eddy Cottrell, winner of the 'Deal or No Deal' game donated his winnings to Hellawell's fund to go with the donations made from Academy staff, players, parents, graduates and sponsors on the night...

'I'm absolutely overwhelmed by it and I was lost for words,' said Hellawell, who returns to training next week.. 'You talk about looking after your own but we actually do here. They didn't have to do that for me and I wasn't expecting it in a million years... I start training again next week and whether it is at Chester or on another loan spell I'd like to think I'd get some playing time before the season ends'".

SELECTION DILEMMA?

Hulme, Alty's leading scorer last season and, again, leading the pack this campaign with 14 goals in all competitions, has just completed a four-match ban for his second red card of the season. That means he has missed more than a quarter of Altrincham's 31 league games so far this season through suspension. In his absence, Piggott netted the club's only league hat-trick this season, in the 6-0 trouncing of Curzon Ashton last Saturday. But Hulme responded with a well-taken brace for the Reserves in midweek against Egerton FC.

And the manager will also be weighing up the merits of recent midfield signing Callum Dolan (right), who scored a spectacular goal for the Reserves on Tuesday night, having made an initial favourable impression as a late substitute last Saturday for the first team.

NORTH-SOUTH DIVIDE

These thoughts are prompted by the fact that the last time Alty had a game on this Saturday's date, 2 March, it was in 2013 and was against that well-known northern club, Oxford City! Altrincham won that game 3-1; it was City's first visit to Moss Lane.

Above: Alty defend an Oxford City freekick in the game in 2013.

In the 2013 fixture, an impressive second-half performance from Altrincham, which included two goals and two more efforts hitting the woodwork, settled the outcome. Duncan Watmore was the key figure and it was fitting that he hammered home the last goal, in the 81st minute, from Damian Reeves's feed. A minute earlier, Reeves had netted his second of the match after substitute Carl Rodgers and Nicky Clee, also in good form, had done well.

Earlier, City had taken a 20th minute lead when Felipe Barcelos finished from 12 yards after Stuart Coburn had only been able to push a testing, low cross out to the Brazilian forward. Alty had levelled five minutes before the interval when James Lawrie did well at the by-line, right of goal, to get the ball across the face of goal to where Reeves headed home at the back post.

Alty captain Shaun Densmore, shown above marshalling his defence, was making his 200th appearance for the club.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. Shaun DENSMORE (capt), 3. Nicky CLEE, 4. Patrick LACEY, 5. Gianluca HAVERN, 6. Scott LEATHER, 7. Simon RICHMAN, 8. James LAWRIE, 9. Ben MILLS, 10. Damian REEVES, 11. Duncan WATMORE, Subs: 12. Matt DOUGHTY, 14. Danny HALL, 15. Carl RODGERS, 16. Jake MOULT, 18. Stephen BULLEN.

OXFORD CITY: 1. Matthew Ingram, 2. Nick Stanley, 3. Paul Stonehouse, 4. Callum McNish, 5. Adam Learoyd, 6. Chris Willmott, 7. Declan Benjamin, 8. Darren Pond, 9. Ashan Holgate, 10. Jamie Cook, 11. Filipe Barcelos. Subs: 12. Andrew Gunn, 14. Mark Bell, 15. Josh Mulvany, 16. Andy Ballard, 17. Liam Malone.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Mirfin suffered a bad knee injury in December 2017 which saw him need an operation and almost learn how to walk again. As a consequence he has not featured for Mansfield at all this season and moved on loan to York City... On Saturday, when facing Nuneaton, he suffered a facial wound that required 31 stitches. York City boss Steve Watson revealed the extent of Mirfin’s injury that will rule him out of this weekend’s game against Leamington.

Watson told The Press, York 'It was really nasty. The physio sent me a picture from the hospital, and I was a bit surprised by it. He needed 31 stitches and it was an oddly-shaped injury. He had a big hole in his face, where the tooth had gone through his lip, so it would be unlikely and probably unwise that we try to involve him at Leamington for the sake of one game. We’ve got to keep him away from contact, even in training, because, if somebody catches him with a stray arm and it opens up again, it could never heal and we want to make sure he’s OK for the rest of the season.'"

A week on Saturday, Altrincham are away at York City.

And York City announce that "City legend Graeme Crawford joined players from the current first team in unveiling a special commemorative shirt at Bootham Crescent. The shirt, which celebrates the club’s farewell to Bootham Crescent, will be worn by the team in our final competitive home game.

The maroon shirt features the famous white 'Y-Front' design of the mid-Seventies along with the club's original coat of arms and current club crest... priced £29.99...

Former goalkeeper Crawford played in every game during City’s two-season stay in the second tier of English football (1974-76) when the original maroon 'Y-Front' shirts were worn...

City have played professional football at Bootham Crescent since 1932 and will be moving to the new Community Stadium at Monks Cross next season."

According to Oldham Athletic, "Defender Jamie Stott has gone back out on loan to Stockport County. The 21-year-old has already made 32 appearances for the Hatters, with 16 coming this season. He rejoins County to the end of April to help them in their bid of gaining promotion.

Grabbing himself two goals during his time out on loan in the first half of the campaign, he then returned to Latics and played in the games against MK Dons, Crawley and Morecambe."

IT's Round and It's White asks "Could Stockport County's promotion push be derailed by FA Trophy ambitions? The last time Stockport County met Manchester City, the Hatters won 2-1 at Edgeley Park thanks to a double from 19-year-old academy product John Hardiker.

Since that last meeting, the clubs have gone in opposite directions. Indeed that season, City were promoted to the Premier League as champions; if they had held on for a draw that night at Edgeley Park they would have finished with 100 points.

County meanwhile finished bottom with 26 points, 22 adrift of second-bottom Barnsley. They conceded 102 goals. The night of Hardiker’s brace was a fleeting moment of joy in a miserable campaign... In 2011 Stockport County, founded in 1883, lost their football league status for the first time but this year they too are fighting for silverware on multiple fronts.

They are unbeaten in their last 19 matches in all competitions... Matty Warburton['s] 16 goals in County’s 31 league games have helped bring the Hatters to within three points of table-toppers Chorley with a game in hand... The unbeaten runs of the National League North’s second and third placed sides will be put to the test on Saturday as County and Spennymoor face off at Edgeley Park... County have already beaten Chorley and Spennymoor this season and, of the six goals Gannon’s men scored in those two games, Warburton was responsible for four, including a hat-trick against the Magpies at Edgeley Park...

But County have interests elsewhere too... On Tuesday night County booked their place in the FA Trophy semi-finals... the Hatters’ cup involvement could derail their push for promotion... Manager Jim Gannon, who will serve the last game of a three-match touchline ban this weekend... said, ‘Ten or eleven games to go. I’m sure there will be plenty of twists and turns. It does look like it will come from one of us top three and we all have to play each other yet. Right now my focus isn’t on Wembley, it’s on the cup final that we have on Saturday.’"

A report from the Shropshire Star tells us that "AFC Telford United striker Amari Morgan-Smith is determined to continue his hot streak after scoring in their hugely dramatic FA Trophy quarter-final triumph. The 29-year-old netted for the second time in as many games as the Bucks won 2-1 at Solihull Moors this past weekend.

His header from Steph Morley's cross, just like in the 4-3 National League North victory at Ashton United on the Tuesday prior, came before Andy Wycherley's last-gasp penalty save which sent Gavin Cowan's side through.

And, on if he has ever been involved in anything like that before, Morgan-Smith said 'Probably not, no. I mean, what can I say? I think the referee wanted to give them something out of the game. Obviously we were the underdogs. But we were colossal until the end. We rode our luck at times, but I think we were comfortable for large parts of the game'...

Morgan-Smith's glancing header was his ninth goal in all competitions this term... 'I've come back into the team and hit the ground running, so hopefully, it will continue until the end of the season', said Morgan-Smith...

Strike partner Daniel Udoh also scored his 22nd goal of the campaign at Damson Park and on the work rate of the pair, Morgan-Smith added... 'First and foremost, you want to score goals, but we've got to work for the team. Defending from the front, that's what we do'".

From Bradford's Telegraph and Argus comes news that "Russ O’Neill says Guiseley are targeting maximum points from a league double header... The Lions face two games in quick succession when they host Southport tomorrow, followed by a trip to Curzon Ashton next Monday night.

O’Neill’s men are fourth-from-bottom and just three points clear of the relegation zone after they crashed to a 1-0 home defeat to Alfreton Town last Saturday. The joint-manager says Guiseley are still in the driver’s seat for survival and just need to accumulate the points... O’Neill added his side are also due some change in their fortunes as he feels they were unfortunate in their defeat to Alfreton at Nethermoor last weekend, their 10th loss of the season which has also included 15 draws from 31 games so far.

He said, 'It’s massively important to try to get as many points as we can over this short space of time. We’ve not got the points' return we have deserved over the last four games... We should have got something out of the game at Southport earlier in the season, but we lost 1-0. They are mid-table but Southport’s manager Liam Watson will make sure they are not just playing out the season... They are trying to push and get into the play-offs. We are not expecting them to take their foot off the gas.

'We would rather be playing as much as we can. Saturday-Tuesday suits us'.

O’Neill added he felt the Lions did not get the rub of the green in their 1-0 defeat to his former club Alfreton Town. He said 'I thought it was an end-to-end game. We want to match them. I thought they only had one or two opportunities to affect our goal. We were just the wrong end of it'...

Meanwhile, Guiseley bolstered their defensive ranks prior to the Alfreton clash with the signing of Kwame Boateng. The 20-year-old former Bradford City defender started on the bench against Alfreton last weekend."

NL Daily says that "Curzon Ashton have signed Joel Senior from FC United. The defender moved to FC United two summers ago and was awarded the Manager’s Player of the Year accolade last season.

Having played 68 times for the Reds, netting his solitary goal in last year’s Manchester Premier Cup final, Senior links up with National League North rivals Curzon Ashton. The Nash are in 13th position with 11 games to play, eight points off the play-off places and 11 clear of the relegation zone."

Wales's Leader Live informs us that "Former Wrexham boss Kevin Wilkin is rooting for the Reds to gain promotion this season. Wilkin spent 12 months in The Racecourse hot-seat, leading The Reds to Wembley in the FA Trophy final and a money-spinning FA Cup third round tie at Stoke City.

Now boss at National League North side Brackley Town where he signed a new two and half year contact this week, Wilkin said 'You need clubs like Wrexham playing in the Football League'...

Since giving Wilkin the boot in 2015, the Wrexham board have struggled to find someone to stay long-term in the Racecourse hotseat... Wilkin, who was axed by the Reds board just hours after losing the 2015 FA Trophy final in a penalty shoot-out defeat to North Ferriby, still has fond memories of the club.

'As a manager, I love bringing in players you think will do well and seeing them develop', added Wilkin. 'Louis Moult for one. I took him to Nuneaton and then to Wrexham and they made good money when he was sold to Motherwell'... Wilkin also brought in dependable defender Manny Smith but he reckons one of his best signings was coach Carl Darlington."

At Blyth Spartans "Striker Bradley Fewster has joined Whitby Town after agreeing to cancel his contract with Blyth Spartans. The striker, who joined from Spennymoor Town in the summer, has made 27 appearances for Blyth, scoring six goals including a vital contribution against York City in December. The former England U19 International has been able to earn a regular starting place at Croft Park despite his valuable contributions from the bench, with Dan Maguire being in fantastic form."

The National League tells us that "To outsiders, it was ‘only’ beating bottom of the table at home. But Chorley manager Jamie Vermiglio knows Tuesday night’s victory against Nuneaton Borough was so much more than just that.

The National League North leaders lost at home to struggling Ashton United on Saturday, arguably the shock result of the season so far. They passed a mental test after going over an hour without breaking through in midweek and eventually ran out 2-0 winners.

This weekend Chorley go to Darlington and they will be watching closely as title rivals Stockport County and Spennymoor meet at Edgeley Park.

'It could have been another frustrating night for us,' said the Magpies' manager... 'Nuneaton set up to do just that and didn’t stop running all night. It took a special goal to break the deadlock. I’m really pleased for all the lads. They have stuck together, kept believing, and got their reward. We know we have got goals in us. We are the joint top scorers in the league.

'We have already managed to score more than this season than we did all last season. But some games you think "where is the goal going to come from?" but we managed to find it. Now it’s on to a really big weekend'".

ENGLAND "C"

Fairclough has named a 16-man squad, with the group set to meet up in Manchester after their club fixtures on Saturday March 16. They will train at Bury FC in preparation for the game... Many of the group who were involved in the win over Estonia last November are selected again... England C is a representative team for U23 players who feature for clubs at National League level and below.

Fans can pay to watch the game on the night, with admission costing £10 for adults, £5 for concessions (U16 and over 60) with U5s going free.

The Squad:

• Goalkeepers: Ryan Huddart (Boreham Wood), Ben Killip (Braintree Town)
• Defenders: Marvin Ekpiteta (Leyton Orient), Daniel Jones (Barrow), Laurence Maguire (Chesterfield), Jon Mellish (Gateshead), Luke Trotman (Darlington)
• Midfielders: Ryan Croasdale (AFC Fylde), James Hardy (AFC Fylde), Greg Olley (Gateshead), Thomas Walker (Salford City) Edward Williams (Kidderminster Harriers)
• Forwards: Brandon Goodship (Weymouth), Luke James (Hartlepool United), Josh Koroma (Leyton Orient), Alfie Pavey (Dover Athletic)

Kidderminster Harriers add that "Ed Williams will be back on England C duty in March... Harriers’ top scorer, who has been back among the goals recently after a spell out with illness and injury, is one of just two players selected from our division to feature in the game against Wales