31 December 2023

NEXT MATCH: FC HALIFAX TOWN

Strangely both of those matches this season have ended with the away team victorious. Alty won the Trophy tie at The Shay after a penalty shoot out, whilst on Boxing Day, the Shaymen won 2-1 at the J. Davidson Stadium in the league.

Altrincham should have both Elliot Osborne and Sam Roscoe available for selection on Monday after they completed their respective suspensions on Boxing Day.

However, the three Joneses are still expected to be absent, with one of them, James, expected to have a shoulder operation imminently. In his Radio Robins commentator role on Boxing Day, Eddy Jones (right) suggested he would be out of action for a couple more weeks.

Meanwhile Joey Jones has been on the injured list for the last dozen league fixtures.

An almost certain starter will be Alex Newby. When he arrived on loan from Colchester, Alex was said to be staying at Altrincham until 2 January 2024> So, unless, there is an imminent announcement, the game against FC Halifax Town will be his last in an Altrincham shirt. Newby has netted four times in 15 appearances for the Robins.

There has been no recent word on Justin Donawa or George Burroughs both of whom could play in defence.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 1 JANUARY

Since then Altrincham have played four times on New Year's Day without recording a victory:

• 2017 drew 1-1 v FC United of Manchester, away in the National League North
• 2018 lost 3-4 v Witton Albion, at home in the Northern Premier League
• 2019 lost 0-1 v Stockport County, at home in the National League North
• 2023 drew 2-2 v FC Halifax Town, away in the National League

The full record of the 67 New Year's Day games played by Altrincham, to date, can be found in Howard Watts and Mike Garnett's updated Through the Years files.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Another player to put in a full shift was JOSH LUNDSTRAM, as Oldham Athletic beat visitors Hartlepool United 2-0".

Elsewhere, SEFTON GONZALES's two goals for Clitheroe included a very late winer as his side won 2-1 at Widnes, where CAMERON TERRY was in goal.

BOXING DAY FIXTURES

Monday 1 January 2024

• AFC Fylde v Rochdale
• Chesterfield v Solihull Moors
• Eastleigh v Dagenham & Redbridge
• FC Halifax Town v Altrincham
• Oxford City v Dorking Wanderers
• Wealdstone v Maidenhead United
• Woking v Aldershot Town
• York City v Gateshead

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Chairman Raj Singh stated, 'This decision wasn’t an easy one to make, but we feel it’s necessary following our recent downturn in form'".

Pools last league win came on 18 November , ironically at Askey's former club, York City, on 18 November.

Since then they have drawn at lowly Kidderminster Harriers, before defeats at home to Chesterfield, a 4-4 draw at Wealdstone and over Christmas, two defeats to Oldham Athletic.

Having led the National League eraly in the campaign, they are now seventeenth just four points above the relegation places.

The BBC that Askey "had been in charge of the club since February, [and] has seen his side pick up only three wins in their past 19 league games...

He succeeded Keith Curle as manager but could not stop the club being relegated from League Two in May".

Southend United "announce the signing of James Morton from National League South side Weston-super-Mare.

Morton, who is a central midfielder, joins the Club on a two-and-a-half year deal... to become Kevin Maher’s first signing since the lifting of the transfer embargo.

He spent 10 years with Bristol City, from 2013 to 2023. Morton had three separate loan spells with Bath City in that time... Morton has also played for three different clubs in the EFL, Forest Green Rovers, Grimsby Town and Gillingham, making 19 appearances in League Two and one in League One...

Said Morton... 'Everything just ticked a lot of boxes for me. I’m fortunate to be coming in at this time with everything moving in the right direction. The management, the staff and the players are all in tune with one another and it’s been really easy to settle in. It feels like a really good place to work'".

At Boreham Wood, the club has announced " the arrival of Josh Staunton, a seasoned defender.... At 28 years old, Staunton joins us following his departure from Yeovil Town

During his time at Huish Park, Josh made 101 appearances as a player and even took the reins as interim manager for a game, leading Yeovil to a remarkable 1-0 win against Altrincham on the final day of the 21/22 season. This achievement not only secured a victory but also established Staunton as the youngest manager in the National League to win a game.

Staunton’s journey began at Gillingham before he moved to Dagenham & Redbridge during the 2016/17 season... The following season saw Staunton don the colors of Woking, where he made 40 appearance... Subsequently, he joined FC Halifax Town, spending two seasons at the Shay and accumulating a total of 60 appearances before making the move to Yeovil Town.

In total, Josh Staunton boasts an impressive 214 National League appearances at the age of just 28, showcasing a remarkable level of experience...

Upon is arrival, manager Luke Garrard added 'We’ve had our eyes on Josh ever since his departure from Yeovil, he’s a player that knows the level inside out@".

30 December 2023

SATURDAY FIXTURES

Saturday 30 December 2023

• Barnet 1-0 Southend United
• Bromley 5-1 Ebbsfleet United
• Kidderminster Harriers 1-2 Boreham Wood
• Oldham Athletic 2-0 Hartlepool United

ALTY ON TV AGAIN

Having had last Saturday's game at Bromley televised live, the Robins are now set to have two further matches broadcast.

The newly selected NL games for broadcasting include Aldershot Town v Altrincham on Saturday, 17 February which, consequently moves from 3pm to a 5.30pm kick off. Alty already have a televised game assigned to them on 23 January when they host Rochdale (8pm).

The full list of games for the next two months comprises:

• Monday January 1 – Chesterfield v Solihull Moors (3pm)
• Sunday January 7 – Boreham Wood v York City (2pm)
• Saturday January 20 – Barnet v Chesterfield (5.30pm)
• Tuesday January 23 – Altrincham v Rochdale (8pm)
• Saturday February 3 – Ebbsfleet United v Oldham Athletic (5.30pm)
• Saturday February 10 – Woking v Hartlepool United (5.30pm)
• Saturday February 17 – Aldershot Town v Altrincham (5.30pm)
• Saturday February 24 – Eastleigh v Bromley (12.30pm)

ALTY OLD BOYS

Championship : Millwall dropped DUNCAN WATMORE to the bench for the visit of Norwich City, and had already scored the only goal of the game when he came on in the 72nd minute. He was booked in added time as his team held on with 10 men.

League One : JUNIOR QUITIRNA made his first start for Fleetwood Town since the end of October, but didn't come out for the second half, while HARRISON HOLGATE stayed on the bench as visitors Bolton Wanderers won 0-2.

At Lincoln City, Northampton Town had already wrapped up a 1-2 win by the time the hosts, by then down to 10 men, introduced ALISTAIR SMITH in the 86th minute.

CARL PIERGIANNI was frustrated as Stevenage's home fixture against Cambridge United was postponed due to a power failure.

League Two : The only power failure at Meadow Lane seemed to be with JOEL SENIOR and his colleagues in the Morecambe defence, as hosts Notts County wrapped up a 5-0 win by the 46th minute, and could even afford to substitute 4 goal hero Macaulay Langstaff as early as the 64th minute.

Another ex-Robin to be substituted was Barrow's ELLIOTT NEWBY, one of three changes made after a goalless first half. His side eventually took the lead, but visitors Accrington Stanley came back to draw 1-1.

CONNOR JENNINGS was credited with the assist for the opener as Tranmere Rovers won 0-2 at Harrogate Town.

The second Grimsby Town goal in their 0-3 win at Salford City was a fully ex Alty affair, as LUKE WATERFALL was credited with the assist, and TOBY MULLARKEY scored his first goal for the club. KEVIN BERKOE (above right) was left on the bench by the hosts.

SHAYMEN AT ALTY

FC Halifax Town has supporter Rob Brown's account of his trip to Altrincham for the match on Boxing day.

“We arrived at Altrincham’s Moss Road [sic] ground... Admission was £20 which gave us access to an open terrace behind the goal and a few seats alongside the pitch as far as the edge of the penalty area. There have been some significant changes since our last visit to the ground. The infamous eight feet high metal fence has been removed from the seating area, and away fans can now see past the halfway line without needing to stand on the back few rows for an uninterrupted view. They’ve replaced the fence with a small tarpaulin sheet which also allows you to chat to the corporate guests on the other side. Credit to the person made that happen, it’s a stoke [stroke of] genius and makes such a positive difference...

The first half started with the Shaymen attacking the far end of the ground. The covered terracing behind the far goal looked packed with good vocal support for the home side. It was a good ten minutes into the game before we realised that Alty had not paid a single visit to our penalty area, all the possession and the game was held by Town. As the half continued, so did the possession, and Town took the lead. The Alty goalkeeper was beaten down low with perhaps the softest shot we’ve scored. It never looked like it was going in, it took ages to actually go in, only the team celebrating at the far end confirmed it was in...

The Shaymen looked in complete control, created chances, and entertained the 425 travelling fans mainly stood in the open... The Greetland Shayman was lucky though, he set off to the conveniences, but as luck would have it, there was no door on the only working loo. He was able to watch the game at the same time and perhaps may not have cared the water wasn’t working either as he ran out of the block celebrating the goal.

With just ten seconds of injury time remaining, Alty pulled a goal back, it flattered the home team who looked a shadow of the team we’d expected..

Each of us would have settled for a draw before kick-off but were treated to an excellent display of controlled football and a win. After a New Year’s Day return match at the Shay, we’re off to Southend, with covered accommodation, running water, working facilities and perhaps another three points".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Plymouth Argyle have been on the hunt for a new boss after the exit of Steven Schumacher earlier this month. He’d led the Pilgrims to the League One title last season and had them consolidating their Championship place, only for Stoke City to swoop in for his services... Plenty of names have been linked with the vacancy, one of the most surprising of which being Chesterfield boss Paul Cook...

Football Insider claims that after talks between Cook and the club, the 56-year-old has become the top contender for the job.

However, from what has been said within the club, you can’t help but feel Cook doesn’t fit the profile they’re looking for. Speaking with Plymouth Live, caretaker boss and director of football Dewsnip has said the club would be ‘foolish’ not to go for a manager similar to previous bosses Ryan Lowe and Schumacher in terms of their age, energy and ambition.

In terms of profile, Cook... would represent a change in direction after backing younger coaches like Lowe and Schumacher in their previous appointments".

29 December 2023

CSC VENUE SWITCHED

The match will now take place at the Project Solar Stadium on Tuesday, January 30th with a 7:45pm kick-off time, after an agreement between the clubs to switch the tie from the J.Davidson Stadium.

Admission for the clash with the Northern Premier League promotion chaser has been agreed at £10 adults and £5 concessions".

Last season a venue change also happened in the CSC as Alty's Third Round tie at home to Vauxhall Motors was switched to Vauxhall's ground at Altrincham's request. Presumably this year's move os for the same reason; to protect the playing surface at the J. Davidson Stadium which has taken a pounding from the repeated heavy rainfall of recent weeks.

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

Following their win at the J. Davidson Stadium on Boxing Day, FC Halifax Town reported that "Town boss Chris Millington made one change...with Jamie Cooke into the side for Aaron Cosgrave...

Town took the lead in the 36th minute, Millenic Alli drilled a shot from just inside the box past Ethan Ross to make it two goals in two games at the J Davidson Stadium having scored the equaliser in the FA Trophy semi-final back in April...

In the second half former Town man Matt Kosylo was booked for a challenge on Jack Hunter in midfield for his second booking in two games against the Shaymen for the Robins...

The Shaymen... doubled the lead on 69 minutes through Jamie Cooke. He had plenty of time and space and he picked his spot to fire past Ross...

The home side pulled one back in the 4th minute of injury time as Chris Conn-Clarke fired past Johnson into the top corner but it was only a consolation for the home side".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

We can now start work on renewing the contracts of our current squad as well as introducing some new faces".

Earlier, the Echo News told us that "boss Kevin Maher... has been unable to add to his squad with contracted permanent players since September 2022...

The Shrimpers are expected to sign a midfielder from a National League South club.

But Maher is fully aware Blues need to bring in another striker with top scorer Harry Cardwell still out with a knee injury.

'Cards is a huge loss,' said Maher. 'He was top scorer in the league for us before he had to come out. We’ll look at it daily but we know it’s an area we need another body in'".

28 December 2023

PARKY'S PERSPECTIVE

As for the Halifax goals, Alty keeper Ethan Ross was described as haveing played despite being "battered and bruised" and he had needed an injection before the game.

The Alty boss explained that he had been injured by a Michael Cheek challenge in the game at Bromley.

He added that "We are far better that what we've shown today" and he assured supporters that there would be a better performance in the return fixture on New Year's Day.

As a factor in his team's below par performance, Parkinson also referred to the Moss Lane pitch which he said was "ridiculously bad for this level" though he did mention the bad winter weather as being responsible for that.

ALTY TV HIGHLIGHTS

ALTY OLD BOYS

27 December 2023

ALTRINCHAM 1-2 FC HALIFAX TOWN

Without four regulars, comprising the suspended duo of Sam Roscoe and Elliot Osborne and the injured defensive duo of Eddy and James Jones, Altrincham fell behind in the 36th minute when Alli beat Ross with a low effort from the edge of the box. The Alty keeper had seemed to be troubled by his ribs in the game at Bromley and in this match he likewise seemed to have some mobility issues.

Having rarely troubled Ross after that, Cooke nevertheless doubled the lead in the 69th minute with a low shot into the bottom corner from 25 yards out as the Alty defence stood off him.

After that Altrincham did not look like retrieving the game against an organised Halifax defence. However, they did get a goal back well into added time when Conn-Clarke fired home from 20 yards, to leave the final score 1-2.

Report to follow.

BOXING DAY GAMES

• Aldershot Town 0-0 Woking
• Altrincham 1-2 FC Halifax Town
• Boreham Wood 1-1 Kidderminster Harriers
• Dagenham & Redbridge 4-1 Eastleigh
• Dorking Wanderers 0-2 Oxford City
• Ebbsfleet United 2-3 Bromley
• Gateshead 1-1 York City
• Hartlepool United 1-3 Oldham Athletic
• Maidenhead United 0-2 Wealdstone
• Rochdale 2-0 AFC Fylde
• Solihull Moors 2-0 Chesterfield
• Southend United 0-2 Barnet

ALTY OLD BOYS

Championship: DUNCAN WATMORE was in Millwall's starting line-up, but was substituted after 83 minutes as they beat visitors QPR 2-0.

League One: OWEN DALE was a 79th minute substitute for Blackpool at Burton Albion, but they lost 1-0.

After 63 minutes at Fleetwood Town, HARRISON HOLGATE was one of two players withdrawn, while JUNIOR QUITIRNA, having missed 11 matches through injury, was one of the replacements - visitors Carlisle United forced a 1-1 draw.

ALISTAIR SMITH was a 79th minute substitute for Lincoln City, but visitors Bolton Wanderers scored the only goal of the match 10 minutes later.

CARL PIERGIANNI captained Stevenage to a convincing 3-0 home victory over Northampton Town.

League Two : TOBY MULLARKEY only came off the Grimsby Town bench in the 94th minute at Mansfield Town, and LUKE WATERFALL remained there as the Stags won 2-0 to move above Barrow into the automatic promotion spots. The Cumbrians had been two goals up at home to league leaders Stockport County, who fought back to draw 2-2. ELLIOTT NEWBY played the full game against his old club.

Another player to turn in a full shift was JOEL SENIOR, whose Morecambe side had been two goals ahead at Bradford City, but eventually had to settle for a 2-2 draw.

Salford City introduced KEVIN BERKOE after 76 minutes, but he could do nothing to prevent them being thrashed 1-5 by visitors Tranmere Rovers, for whom CONNOR JENNINGS scored the third goal.

National League: BILLY SASS-DAVIES put Boreham Wood in front after 50 minutes, but 11 minutes later visitors Kidderminster Harriers introduced ASHLEY HEMMINGS and he equalised from the penalty spot in added time.

MARCUS DINANGA put in a full shift for Gateshead, who had to come from behind for a 1-1 draw with visitors York City.

Another to play the full match was JOSH LUNDSTRAM for Oldham Athletic, although he picked up a yellow card in their 1-3 win at Hartlepool.

TYRESE SINCLAIR also saw yellow as he played throughout Rochdale's 2-0 home win over AFC FYLDE, for whom DANNY WHITEHEAD was an 81st minute substitute.

Chesterfield fell to a 0-2 defeat at Solihull Moors. RYAN COLCLOUGH gave way to JAMES BERRY after 80 minutes, while JEFF KING played the full match and picked up a yellow card.

NPL A JONNY MARGETTS goal was sufficient for Matlock Town to win their match at Ilkeston Town.

A brace from JOSH HANCOCK sandwiching a JORDAN HULME strike enabled Radcliffe to see off visitors Bradford PA 3-0.

National North : LEWIS SALMON scored Alfreton Town's winner as they beat visitors Buxton 2-1. KENNEDY DIGIE also put in a full shift for them, while HARRY PERRITT came on as a substitute at the start of the second half. DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY played the first 83 minutes for the visitors, but CONNOR KIRBY was missing from the squad.

YUSIFU CEESAY put Hereford ahead at Gloucester City, but the hosts went 2-1 up through 39 year old Danny Wright, who many will remember from playing against the Robins for Histon and a number of other clubs. However Hereford came back to win 2-3 with two goals from another veteran Andy Williams, who has started a second spell with the club at the age of 37, having played for them against Alty back in 2006.

26 December 2023

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

The teams go into this first part of the festive double-header in sixth and seventh position with Alty having the edge by three points as well as enjoying the advantage of a game in hand.

FC Halifax Town remind us that "The Shaymen drew 2-2 against local neighbours Rochdale at the weekend, Chris Millington’s side were denied all three points by Jimmy Keohane’s second half strike for the Dale.

Five wins, three draws and four defeats on the road this season, wins have been picked up at Oldham, Rochdale, Ebbsfleet, Woking and Gateshead so far this season.

Altrincham have won 6, drawn 1 and lost just one game at home this season in the league".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The sale is conditional upon Southend Council’s approval of certain property transactions that are required to facilitate the Club staying at Roots Hall. Those terms have been agreed and we expect the Club ownership will formally transfer in early 2024...

During the sale process the club has conducted parallel discussions with the National League and HMRC, and anticipate the transfer embargo being lifted next week.

We would like to put on record our sincere thanks to the National League for the cooperation they've shown throughout this period".

25 December 2023

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

Over the Christmas period the news service will necessarily be less wide-ranging and some statistical features may not be updated as promptly as usual.

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

The clubs' third meeting will be on New Year's Day at The Shay.

PARKY'S VERDICT

He admitted that the first Altrincham goal was "very against the run of play" but paid tribute to Alex Newby's equaliser as "a top quality finish".

The Alty boss pointed out that "We brought Matty Kosylo, Regan Linney and Dior Angus on and really went for it, and got our rewards at the end.

"To get that draw will feel a loss to them and a win to us".

BROMLEY'S VERDICT

"They were delighted with the point and really celebrated it and it tells you have far we have come as a club. Ultimately , though, it was our lack of a cutting edge, we didn't take our chances despite outplaying them on the day".

Supporting Woodman's case were the statistics which showed that Bromley had 18 shots, seven on target, whilst Alty scored with their only two shots on target.

But whilst Bromley committed 17 fouls to Alty's ten, the away side picked up four yellows and a red to the hosts' two cautions and a red card.

24 December 2023

BROMLEY 2-2 ALTRINCHAM

After Bromley had started strongly Alty snatched the lead from a counter-attack. Marriott and Dackers fed Conn-Clarke who shot was deflected and the final touch came off Newby (13 mins).

Despite home pressure, Alty held onto their lead till the interval but were reduced to ten men just three minutes into the second half when Osborne saw red for a second offence.

Soon afterwards Olomola levelled for Bromley following a long throw (56 mins). And the same player then made it 2-1 with a good finish.

A poor challenge on Wilson by Arthurs saw the Bromley man sent off to render the game ten a side, just a couple of minutes later.

Alty withstood home pressure before Amaluzor was upended in added time, 20 yards or so from goal in a central position. Alex Newby delivered an excellent freekick which made it 2-2 (90+2 mins). Altrincham rode out the remaining five minutes of added time to earn a point.

Report to follow.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE RESULTS

• AFC Fylde 1-1 Dagenham & Redbridge
• Barnet 6-0 Boreham Wood
• Bromley 2-2 Altrincham
• Chesterfield 4-1 Aldershot Town
• Eastleigh 2-1 Dorking Wanderers
• FC Halifax Town 2-2 Rochdale
• Kidderminster Harriers 1-2 Southend United
• Oldham Athletic 1-2 Gateshead
• Oxford City 1-2 Solihull Moors
• Wealdstone 4-4 Hartlepool United
• Woking 0-0 Maidenhead United
• York City 1-1 Ebbsfleet United

NEXT MATCH: FC HALIFAX TOWN

ALTY OLD BOYS

Championship: Millwall brought DUNCAN WATMORE off the bench after 70 minutes at Stoke City, but, in a performance where they didn't manage a single attempt on goal, compared to the home side's 15, one suspects they were satisfied to earn a 0-0 draw.

League One: Although skipper CARL PIERGIANNI played throughout, Stevenage went down 2-1 at Barnsley.

Blackpool left OWEN DALE on the bench as they beat visitors Bristol Rovers 3-1.

HARRISON HOLGATE was an 85th minute substitute for Fleetwood Town, as they came from behind to earn an unexpected draw at leaders Portsmouth - they actually had more goal attempts than the hosts.

League Two: After TOBY MULLARKEY was substituted in the 87th minute, Grimsby Town scored in added time, but visitors Harrogate Town were already ahead and won 1-2. LUKE WATERFALL was again left on the bench.

Although JOEL SENIOR put in a full shift for Morecambe, they fell 1-3 to visitors MK Dons.

Although CONNOR JENNINGS was booked, and they trailed at the break, Tranmere Rovers recovered to win 2-1 at home to Swindon Town.

National League : DANNY WHITEHEAD, back from suspension, came off the bench fro AFC Fylde after 84 minutes, as they drew 1-1 with visitors Dagenham & Redbridge.

BILLY SASS-DAVIES was booked as his Boreham Wood side were crushed 6-0 at Barnet.

RYAN COLCLOUGH scored after 64 minutes to put leaders Chesterfield ahead after they had been behind after only 3 minutes to visitors Aldershot. Just 5 minutes later he was substituted, giving way to JAMES BERRY as the Spireites went on to win 4-1. JEFF KING remained on the bench.

TYRESE SINCLAIR put in a full shift for Rochdale as they drew 2-2 at Halifax.

ASHLEY HEMMINGS, later substituted, equalised for Kidderminster Harriers, but visitors Southend United regained the lead and held it to win 1-2.

Gateshead led 1-2 at Oldham when the hosts substituted JOSH LUNDSTRAM after 69 minutes. The visitors brought MARCUS DINANGA off the bench 3 minutes later, but there were no further goals.

National North: JOSH AMIS scored Warrington Town's winner as they came from behind to beat visitors Banbury United 2-1. NPL: Although JOSH HANCOCK equalised for Radcliffe in the first half, hosts Hyde United struck twice in the second half to win 3-1.

Although JONNY MARGETTS put Matlock Town ahead, visitors Morpeth came back to draw 1-1.

Scottish Premiership: MILES WELCH-HAYES was again an unused substitute as Livingston lost 2-0 at Celtic.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

MOONEY RETURNS TO ALTY

Right: Dan Mooney will be renewing his acquaintance with Neil Sorvel (pictured here) and Phil Parkinson.

After putting the finishing touches to a permanent deal with the Robins, Dan provided an insight into his thinking by saying [to John Edwards], 'A few clubs came in, and there were conversations, so it was a case of choosing the right project for rebuilding my career and kicking on and being able to enjoy my football again.

'It didn't take long to realise my time at Alty first time round was right up there with the best I've had.

'The relationship I had with the gaffer was really good. Along with Sorvs and the staff, he gave me a platform where I could play as I wanted to play and express myself as I wanted to...

'There were reasons why I left for Southend, such as wanting to test myself at such a big club'...

Alty boss Phil Parkinson [said]... 'He’s the type of winger I like to recruit. He has many qualities, but his main one for me is his bravery to embrace pressure and step up to the plate when the team need him most. A similar quality that Chris Conn-Clarke has; both are match winners...

'This time last season, we lost our frontline, all five of them, in Ryan Colclough, Chris, Elliot Newby, Connor Jennings and Marcus Dinanga. We’re making sure we’ll remain strong in this area if anything similar happens this January.

'We sold Dan to Southend and we are getting him back for free at a great age and point in his career. That’s great business in my eyes'".

Brian Flynn has interviewed Dan on Alty TV following his return to Altrincham.

Footnote: Dan Mooney made 55(+15) appearances and scored 18 goals in his first spell at Altrincham.

TODAY: BROMLEY

FESTIVE DOUBLE: FC HALIFAX TOWN

This double-fixture is a repeat of last season when, again, Alty were at home on Boxing Day before crossing the Pennines for the New Year's Day return fixture.

An added-time goal by Chris Conn-Clarke, in front of a gate of 3,006, clinched a 2-1 win for Altrincham in the Boxing Day clash at the J. Davidson Stadium. Matty Warburton had put the Shaymen ahead just before the interval, only for Ryan Colclough to draw the sides level on 54 minutes.

In the return fixture Chris Conn-Clarke again scored late on (84 mins) but Jordan Slew ensured the hosts took a point when he levelled two minutes later.

Earlier, Elliot Osborne (above, right) had put Alty ahead in the twelfth minute. Millenic Alli made it 1-1 midway through the second half before the late exchange of goal which meant that the game ended 2-2.

ALTY OLD BOYS

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• AFC Fylde v Dagenham & Redbridge
• Barnet v Boreham Wood
• Bromley v Altrincham (k.o. 5.30pm, live on TNT Sports)
• Chesterfield v Aldershot Town
• Eastleigh v Dorking Wanderers
• FC Halifax Town v Rochdale
• Kidderminster Harriers v Southend United
• Oldham Athletic v Gateshead
• Oxford City v Solihull Moors
• Wealdstone v Hartlepool United
• Woking v Maidenhead United
• York City v Ebbsfleet United

ALTY GROUNDSMAN LEAVING

Adam has been a huge asset since arriving at Alty at the beginning of September last year, working tirelessly and with considerable expertise to prepare pitches conducive to the Robins' preferred style of play and doing his utmost to combat the detrimental effect of torrential rain in recent weeks...

Adam said... 'I have thoroughly enjoyed working for Alty and hope they continue on their upward trajectory!'...

Adam joined the Robins after spending the previous three years tending pitches at Stoke City and the FA's St George's Park headquarters, and he quickly made a favourable impression working alongside a committed team of volunteers to provide Alty's squad with the best possible playing surface...

The club can confirm that we are advertising for a replacement with immediate effect".

BOXING DAY FIXTURES

• Aldershot Town v Woking
• Altrincham v FC Halifax Town
• Boreham Wood v Kidderminster Harriers
• Dagenham & Redbridge v Eastleigh
• Dorking Wanderers v Oxford City
• Ebbsfleet United v Bromley
• Gateshead v York City
• Hartlepool United v Oldham Athletic
• Maidenhead United v Wealdstone
• Rochdale v AFC Fylde
• Solihull Moors v Chesterfield
• Southend United v Barnet

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

And Woking will hope for a positive start to the Michael Doyle era...

After ending a run of seven straight defeats thanks to Paul Osew's late goal against Dorking at Meadowbank, caretaker manager Ian Dyer will resume his duties as assistant to Doyle, who will have a positive selection dilemma for his first game in charge.

The likes of Rhys Browne and Reece Grego-Cox missed out at Dorking, and Rohan Ince was a late substitute, with returns for Manny Oyeleke and Jim Kellermann proving highly successful. There was also no place in the matchday squad for Morgan Williams, who has been impressive on loan from AFC Wimbledon, so it will be interesting to see if Doyle brings him back into the fold"

In contrast, "Taking charge of Maidenhead United for the ninth consecutive season, Alan Devonshire once again had to deal with big squad changes in the summer as the likes of 'keepers Dan Gyollai and Alexis Andre Jr, now of course at Woking himself departed, but the Magpies pulled off something of a coup in securing the services of popular Woking stopper Craig Ross, who has been a key part of a Maidenhead side currently clear of danger in 12th, having kept seven league clean sheets.

Other changes included striker Emile Acquah securing a move to League Two Barrow where he is playing a big hand in a promotion push there, and the Magpies have been unable to fully replace his output.

However, winger duo Reece Smith and Ashley Nathaniel-George have earned much praise across the division. Smith... already has seven in 21 appearances this season...

Southend United are away at Kidderminster today (Saturday), following a defeat to Bromley, where they could name just one substitute and had to use an outfield player when their keeper got injured.

Maher explained 'We have to manage players that are carrying bumps and bruises. Any stuff we do tactically is unopposed because we can’t afford injuries. It’s difficult but the players know their jobs and we’re ready to go...

'Everyone else can make tactical changes, but we’ve got players who we’re pushing to the brink; not being able to make changes is the most difficult thing'"

As for Kidderminster, Maher said 'They’re really organised, they don’t concede any goals, and going away from home in this league is always a tough prospect.'”

At SOlihull Moors "Max Brogan has today joined National League North side Buxton on a 28-day loan.

The midfielder who has already spent time out on loan with Tamworth has today joined Buxton on a short-term loan deal which will see the youngster ply his trade in North Derbyshire for Buxton.

Brogan started in Moors’ 2-0 win over Scunthorpe United in the FA Trophy fixture where the 22-year-old played the full match as Andy Whing’s side progressed into the next round of the competition.

On his debut for the Lambs, Brogan scored from the half-way line to help Andy Peaks’ side progress into the next round of the Staffordshire Senior Cup".

Altrincham's eighty-eighth Boxing Day match sees them entertain FC Halifax Town, just as they did last Christmas, when the Robins won 2-1. The full list of those previous clashes is to be found in Howard Watts and Mike Garnett's Through the Years data.

22 December 2023

CHRIS'S "BEST GOAL OF MY CAREER"

Sale & Altrincham Messenger, John Edwards writes that "Altrincham climbed into the top four in the National League after Chris Conn-Clarke scored a dramatic late winner...

Right: Chris Conn-Clarke pictured during the game against AFC Fylde

Trailing at half time to AFC Fylde, Alty were level when Conn-Clarke clipped a brilliant free-kick over the wall and into the net and were celebrating a win that took them to fourth after the attacking midfielder latched on to a pass from Elliot Osborne and hit a shot with dip and pace that went in off the underside of the bar.

Both were stunning individual efforts...

'The second one was the best goal I’ve scored in all my career,' he said. 'Ell[iot Osborne] gave me the ball in loads of space, and all I can remember is putting my foot through it...

'But I was pleased with the first one as well. That’s a technique I’ve been working on for a few years now. I practise it in training all the time. In fact, I stay behind after training on a Friday and practise it, so to see it paying dividends on the Saturday makes it all worthwhile'".

Manager Phil Parkinson also praised defender Lewis Baines for a crucial goal-line clearance saying, 'It’s not luck that Lewis was in the right place to make that block; he knew where he needed to be'".

NEXT: BROMLEY

The Spireites are eight points clear of second-placed Bromley, who have played two more games than the leaders...

'Chesterfield have won the league, it's done,' Woodman, 52, told BBC Radio London...

'Chesterfield are a powerhouse in this league this year, they have a good squad, a good manager and a good fanbase. It will have to take a real landslide of mishaps for them to fall away'...

Bromley lost their play-off semi-final 3-2 to Chesterfield last season, while in 2020-21 they fell short of the semi-finals after a 3-2 defeat by Hartlepool in Woodman's first season in charge.

Woodman led Bromley to FA Trophy success in 2022, beating Wrexham 1-0 in the final, and has helped the side bounce back from claiming only two points in their first four games of this season.

'We've had a good run to say the least... We haven't won anything yet, we haven't got anywhere yet and I've had two play-offs with Bromley now and I'm still in the same league. I know exactly how it feels to not achieve anything. Getting in the play-offs is not achieving anything. Getting out of this league is achieving something'".

DORKING: FOR THE FOURTH TIME

The new date is Tuesday, 6 Feburary at 7.45pm.

The saga so far:

• Saturday, 21 October; match postponed because of a waterlogged pitch at the JDS
• Saturday, 2 December; match postponed because of a frozen pitch at the JDS
• Tuesday, 12 December; match postponed because the FA Trophy tie, away against FC Halifax Town on 9 December, had been postponed due to waterlogging at The Shay, and its rearrangement took precedence over the league fixture

ALTY OLD BOYS

And on Thursday, in League One, The scoring was complete in Derby County's 3-1 home win by the time visitors Lincoln City introduced ALISTAIR SMITH in the 83rd minute.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The appointment represents a significant milestone in the club’s journey following promotion to the National League... Holdsworth brings an illustrious coaching career and a wealth of experience... courtesy of a playing career that included over 600 games and 197 goals, with much of his football played at Premier League level with Wimbledon and Bolton Wanderers.

After his playing career, he managed several clubs, with his greatest success coming with Newport County achieving promotion to what is now the National League as Champions. In addition, he has served as Chairman of the Professional Footballers Association and founded the Non League Footballers Association. He is also a former co-owner of Bolton Wanderers.

As Technical Director, Holdsworth will undertake a varied role across the entire football club... The role will also include working closely with the first team management to assist them in achieving short and long-term objectives and supporting them with the day-to-day running of first team matters.

Kidderminster Harriers Chairman, Richard Lane, commented... 'His exceptional experience as a player and manager will help guide Kidderminster Harriers in years to come to become sustainable off the pitch and achieve its goals on the pitch.'"

Holdsworth commented that "The club has great potential both on and off the pitch to succeed in becoming a Football League club in years to come", whilst "Manager Russ Penn added...'We have to learn and grow with the times, and I believe adding to what we have at the club is a sign of our objectives moving forward... We look forward to working with him.'”

ISUZU FA TROPHY

• Wealdstone 4-1 Billericay Town (played at Billericay).

NEXT: BROMLEY

The 2015 encounter was the first time that season Altrincham that scored three goals and, in doing so, they secured their second away win of the season. That outcome had seemed unlikely when the pre-match teamsheet had again revealed seven absentees from the starting eleven. But a spirited performance, aided by some superb goalkeeping by Tim Deasy, saw Alty home.

The seven mising players were Coburn, Marshall, Densmore, Lawrie, Havern, Rankine and Clee with only the two last-named being fit enough even to be named on the bench.

Damian Reeves deftly headed Altrincham ahead in the 19th minute, from a Crowther cross from the left, before Bromley levelled in the 36th minute through Emmanuel despite, initially, Deasy seeming to have scooped the ball off the line.

Two goals in as many minutes after halftime sealed the outcome. First, O'Keefe scored with a low shot from the edge of the box before an error by Udoji let in Reeves for his second (52 mins).

Deasy produced several excellent blocks to keep out Bromley but Altrincham played out the closing stages fairly comfortably.

Above, we see the Altrincham supporters who travelled to Bromley in 2015, who endured a pre-dawn start and a post-sunset arrival home for a lunch-time kick off some 230 miles from home at Bromley.

Here, those who can, take shelter from the persistent rain which lasted throughout the match. Some other supporters had already booked their transport for the original 3pm kick off, only to find the start had been switched by BT Sport and so they missed the match. In the foreground is Alty's Man of the Match, Tim Deasy.

Bromley recorded 55 Alty fans in the away section but an estimated further 150 supporters watched the game on live television in the Community Sports Hall at the J. Davidson Stadium, well fed by Richie Bentley and his catering team.

23 DECEMBER, LAST TIME

That was in 2017 when Altrincham were in the Northern Premier League. That day they were entertaining Matlock Town at Moss Lane and they won 3-0 on their way to the league title.

However, Alty had lost the reverse fixture at Matlock, 1-0, back in August.

The clubs had been regular opponents in the NPL and the previous Alty record against The Gladiators was...

• Home: P14-W12-D1-L1-F31-A9
• Away: P13-W4-D2-L7-F19-A26
• All: P27-W16-D3-L8-F50-A35

Although Altrincham ran out comfortable winners, Matlock made them work hard for more than an hour.

It started well, however. After Hancock had spurned an early chance, Jordan Hulme latched onto James Poole's excellent ball up the middle to beat Phil Barnes in the 14th minute.

Above: The fog descended on the game against Matlock in 2017.

With fog making visibility difficult in the second half, Alty extended their lead after 67 minutes when Hulme cleverly backheeled a cross from the right into the net, his 19th goal of the season. And it was another cross from the right that Hancock headed home to make it 3-0 in the 88th minute, a goal scored whilst the visitors were temporarily down to ten men.

Alty had made changes from the team which exited the FA Trophy in midweek, with Densmore, Hannigan and Hancock returning to the starting eleven.

ALTRINCHAM (Red & white striped shirts, black shorts, red socks) 1. Tony THOMPSON, 2. Shaun DENSMORE, 3. Connor HAMPSON, 4. Tom HANNIGAN, 5. Ben HARRISON, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Max HARROP, 9. Jordan HULME, 10. James POOLE, 11. Josh HANCOCK. Subs 12. Simon RICHMAN, 14. Tom PEERS, 15. James JONES, 16. Sean MILLER, 17. Lewis SHORT

ROLL OF HONOUR

We're in the process of putting the Roll Of Honour together and are asking fans to submit names to be included.

Submissions can be emailed to bill@altrinchamfootballclub.co.uk and, if you'd like to include a photo of a friend or loved one, we may use it as part of a Roll Of Honour website post ahead of the Halifax game".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The sanctions follow the ruling of an FA Commission in relation to the conduct of supporters in the aftermath of the equalising goal.

The club is involved in ongoing work with Greater Manchester Police and Derbyshire Police regarding matters that arose from the encroachment of supporters onto the pitch.

The club has listened to advice received from the FA in relation to our procedures as a visiting club for fixtures of this nature.

It is important we use this opportunity to remind supporters that entering the field of play, as well as the use of flares and pyrotechnics, are criminal offences and carry severe consequences".

The Times Series reports that "After conceding a late goal away at Ebbsfleet United on Saturday, Barnet head coach Dean Brennan was unimpressed with his side’s ability to gain all three points.

Top scorer Nicke Kabamba put the Bees ahead just after the break before Ben Coker’s own goal just 10 minutes from time saw the away side drop more points in the National League and fall further behind leaders Chesterfield.

'We should see the game out to be honest, against a team who aren’t big on attacking restarts; they’re a more technical team really,' said the boss...

'We gave away a rubbish goal. Obviously there’s turning points in the game. Nicke should have scored a header to make it two nil and (Zak) Brunt should have got on the end of a cross. We don’t put the game to bed, and I don’t think our goalie has made a save today...

'So I’m devastated and I’ve got to be honest with you. It’s really, really frustrating...

'More leaders, more men and our players need to step up'".

20 December 2023

TOP CROWDS = TOP PLACES?

The following table shows average league attendances this season in the Vanarama National League.

It is arranged in descending order and also shown is the variance between a club's place in the league table and its place in the attendances chart.

So, for example, Oldham are second in attendances but only 10th in the league so are recorded as minus 8 (10 minus 2) in terms of where they sit in the league in relation to the size of their gate.

Above: The Golf Road end was well populated for the visit of Bromley earlier this season.

In crude terms therefore, those teams with a plus score are punching above their weight, based on attendances, and those with a minus score are underperforming by that measure.

Needless to say there are many other factors at play, notably the amount of investment and managerial competence, injuries, etc, which are not reflected in the table below. And some clubs have yet to entertain the opponents who will bring the biggest numbers of travelling supporters.

The clubs with a plus score (i.e. they are higher in the league table than in the attendance chart) are Gateshead (+17), Solihull Moors (+16), Barnet (+12), Bromley and Maidenhead United (+8), ALTRINCHAM (+7), FC Halifax Town (+5), Wealdstone (+4), Aldershot Town and Oxford City (+2).

The worst negative disparity between attendance level and league position is displayed by two newly promoted clubs, York City (-16) and Kidderminster Harriers (-15) and one newly demoted in Hartlepool United (-10).

1. 7596: Chesterfield (league position 1st, variance from attendances) 0
2. 6683 Oldham Athletic (10th, minus 8)
3. 6078 Southend United (16th, minus 13 but would be 8th without points deduction, minus 5)
4. 4536 York City (20th, minus 16)
5. 3736 Hartlepool United (15th, minus 10)
6. 3022 Rochdale (9th, minus 3)
7. 2688 Woking (17th, so minus 10)
8. 2657 Kidderminster Harriers (23rd, so minus 15)
9. 2282 Aldershot Town (7th so plus 2)
10. 2268 Bromley (2nd, so plus 8)
11. 1920 ALTRINCHAM (4th, so plus 7)
12. 1831 Eastleigh (11th so minus 1)
13. 1804 FC Halifax Town (8th so plus 5)
14. 1768 Dorking Wanderers (19th so minus 5)
15. 1630 Barnet (3rd, so plus 12)
16. 1564 Dagenham & Redbridge (18th so minus 2)
17. 1514 Wealdstone (13th so plus 4)
18. 1504 Ebbsfleet United (21st, so minus 3)
19. 1467 AFC Fylde (24th so minus 5)
20. 1344 Maidenhead United (12th so plus 8)
21. 1265 Solihull Moors (5th so plus 16)
22. 1235 Boreham Wood (14th so minus 8)
23. 1125 Gateshead (6th so plus 17)
24. 906 Oxford City (22nd so plus 2)

Obviously any team's performance is influenced by many other factors than their club's attendances.

Those factors certainly include the level of investment, the competence of the team management, the number of player injuries and, in terms of this current snapshot, the fact that some clubs have hosted the best supported clubs and others will not do so until the New Year.

ALTY OLD BOYS

FA Cup: Having put Blackpool ahead in the first half, OWEN DALE was substituted in the 79th minute as they overcame Forest Green Rovers 3-0 to earn a trip to Nottingham Forest in the 4th Round.

NPL: Macclesfield, who announce that they have sold over 3,000 tickets for the visit of Hyde United on Boxing Day, were held to a goalless draw at Workington. SAM HEATHCOTE played the full match.

Southern Central: Without ANDY DALES, Mickleover's chance of going back to the top of the league was well and truly scuppered as they crashed 4-0 at Stamford.

ALTY SHOP OPENING HOURS

With Mondays and Tuesdays our advertised days of closure, we've used the break to replenish beanie hats, bobble hats, mugs, calendars, scarves and training wear.

These will be available in-store from Wednesday onwards. Please note, trading hours will vary over the coming week or so, with some notable amendments. We will have a short opening window on Wednesday 20th, with the store trading from 10am to 12:30pm, whilst on Saturday 23rd we will be closing at 3pm."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The prestigious Leader’s Recognition Award is given to residents who show courage and bravery in helping others as well as a strong community spirit.

Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, Cllr Darren Rodwell... [said] 'My thanks also go to Stephen Thompson, the Managing Director of Dagenham and Redbridge FC who made their building available for residents at very short notice.”'

Stephen Thompson added 'It was with some pride that the first people the police and council turned to when this disaster struck was the club and I readily agreed to help knowing that our fantastic staff would step up to assist. But to assist for a few hours very quickly turned into an overnight marathon but the staff involved just knuckled down to help those in need. I am so proud that the Council has recognised their efforts with these awards'”.

At Dorking Wanderers "Striker Alfie Rutherford has joined National League South side Weymouth FC on a short-term (28 day) loan agreement...

Manager Marc White said 'I had a chat with Alfie and we both feel like we underestimated how long his lay-off has been. I called Alfie back prematurely from Bognor Regis, where he was only doing 45 minutes, having been out for 18 months and with no pre-season. In hindsight this was asking too much of Alfie, so we had a chat and decided to invest in him getting a loan agreement so he can get the extra minutes required to return to the Wanderers and go straight back into the side once he returns'".

Having been the last club to lose a match this season in the National League, Solihull Moors remarkably have not won in their last four games in all competitions.

Last weekend, "A second-half collapse from Moors and a Nathan Sheron second half brace saw the home side succomb to a third home defeat in a row this time to the hands of Oldham Athletic...

The first twenty minutes were nothing to write home about, both sides cancelling each other out with the odd half chance for both sides coming to nothing.

It was very much Moors which took the game by the neck after the first twenty minute lull".

AFter going close, Moors' "Mark Beck would make up for it, the ball falling to him... and [he] slotted home past Hudson for a well deserved home lead. Deadlock broken after 28 minutes...

Andy Whings men would be the team that came out the interval of the better of the two and it was nearly a second for Mark Beck and Moors on the 55th minute".

Oldham levelled nine minutes later, as "two minutes of mayhem was complete when on the 66th minute the away side then went on to take an unlikely lead... Nightmare for Moors...

Oldham soon dashed any hope for Moors on the 82nd minute as Nathan Sheron got his second of the game and Oldham’s third... Moors however did manage to get one back as a result of a Josh Kelly penalty in the 94th minute... as Moors were downed to their third home defeat... due to a 30 minutes horrorshow in the second half".

Oxford City "announce a partnership with artificial pitch specialists PST Sport.

In the summer, after promotion to the Vanarama National League, PST Sport were chosen as our official pitch provider to install a state-of-the-art FIFA Quality Pro surface.

After installation, PST's new pitch will serve the entire Oxford community, with the club welcoming over 80,000 participants to the RAW Charging Stadium every year...

PST Sport’s Bryn Lee said 'Oxford City FC benefits from the very latest in surface technology, with the playing surface consisting of three different shapes and shades of fibre. This allows the pitch to play to the highest standard, look more natural and last longer. Altogether, the system is perfect for such an ambitious club'".

Southend United may not have done much right financially in recent times but the playing staff have been setting a much better example.

"Blues are spreading the festive goodwill and championing those in our community who have gone above and beyond. The club recently asked for nominations of supporters and community heroes who have inspiring stories that deserved celebrating.

The first ‘Shrimpers At Your Doorstep’ saw Jack Bridge surprise John Hanks [at his home]. John was nominated by his granddaughter, Rachel, who said this…

'My grandad has been supporting Southend since he was 10 years old when going to matches with his dad, and has been the biggest supporter ever since!... I believe that he deserves this recognition as he has overcome many illnesses and mental battles in the past year, and he has shown the utmost resilience and determination..

'He is the biggest Southend fan I know and the belief he has in Southend United Football Club is unmatched and really inspiring!'....

Bridge said 'It was an absolute pleasure to meet John, someone who has supported the club for so long and is clearly such a big fan, so it’s so nice to be able to do something like that'".

ISUZU FA TROPHY

• Walsall Wood P-P Coalville Town
• Wealdstone P-P Billericay Town.

  (Wealdstone announce that "The Stones had originally been drawn at home but after three successive postponements at Grosvenor Vale the tie has been switched in accordance with competition rules". The match will now be played tonight, Wednesday.)

19 December 2023

NEXT OPPONENT: BROMLEY SIGN STRIKER

The 23-year-old has had a fantastic season so far, bagging 20 goals in all competitions after joining from Brackley Town in the summer.

The striker began his career at Chesterfield where he’d go on to represent the Spireites 11 times in the National League whilst also enjoying a loan spell at Blyth Spartans.

A move to Darlington followed before he was back at Blyth, this time penning a permanent deal.

Ahead of his move to Maidstone, Amantchi featured for Workington, Redditch, Potters Bar and Braintree before continuing to impress at Brackley".

His former club, Maidstone United add that "his 20 goals in all competitions had put him on the watchlist for several clubs. It was the Ravens that swooped first to trigger his release clause, which was a condition of him signing this summer, and putting a deal to the 23-year-old that he has accepted.

Club director of football Bill Williams said 'Let me say from the outset that we are all very disappointed to see Levi go and I know that view will be shared by everyone at our club. He’s been a revelation this season and his goals have played a crucial part in our league and cup success to date.

'I truly believed he would see out this season with us, despite the interest we were expecting leading up to and during the January transfer window. He expressed a wish to stay and we offered terms to extend his contract. However, Bromley made him an exceptional offer that he felt he couldn’t turn down and we simply couldn’t compete with it.

'We mustn’t forget that Levi was injured recently and we were reckoning on being without him anyway till end January... Levi made 26 appearances in all competitions for the Stones'".

So, whether Amantchi is fit to face Altrincham seems doubtful.

FORM GUIDE

The most glaring is that the only team without a win, apart from bottom-placed AFC Fylde, is third-placed Barnet who had lost just twice in 18 league games before a dreadful run of four successive defeats was followed by a recuperative draw last Saturday.

And the only team in the division not to have a lost game in the past five is another surprise as it is not a current play-off team but rather it is mid-table Maidenhead United. Indeed Maidenhead are second only to Chesterfield over six games with four wins and two draws to their name.

League leaders Chesterfield have five wins, a defeat and a draw from their last six outings to head the form guide.

As for Altrincham, over the last six games, they lie sixth in the form guide with three wins, two losses and a draw in that sequence.

In their last 14 league matches, Altrincham have lost just twice, winning eight times and drawing on the other two occasions.

Meanwhile, the leading scorers in the National League include one Altrincham player and one ex-Altrincham player...

• 18: McCallum (Eastleigh)
• 14: Kabamba (Barnet)
• 13: Dieseruvwe (Hartlepool United)
• 12: CONN-CLARKE (Altrincham), Dinanga (Gateshead) and Cardwell (Southend Uited)

Despite being only a loanee for part of last season, Chris topped Alty's league scoring chart with nine goals in 2022-23, so he has already well exceeded that total.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

However, the Magpies were still six unbeaten in the league, having risen to 13th in the table following their impressive 4-1 win away to Oxford City a couple of weeks previously...

There was a doggedness and determination which characterised their play throughout... Kidderminster were restricted to shots from distance and... Craig Ross's goal wasn't seriously tested...

Peters said... 'We were playing another team in and around us... The mentality to make sure you win these games was going to be tested today and I thought our boys were phenomenal... We're going into the Christmas period full of confidence...

'At the end, they brought on one big guy after another big guy and we were wondering what their late set pieces would look like, but the boys rose to the occasion, they put their bodies on the line'".

At Eastleigh "The Spitfires get their revenge by doing the league double over Aldershot, winning an eight-goal-thriller at The EBB Stadium.

Paul McCallum opened the flood gates in the 20th minute before Bailey Clements and Chris Maguire added to the Spitfires tally to put them three goals up at the half.

McCallum bagged another before Scott Quigley scored a fifth.

The Shots then went on to score three times but it wasn’t enough for them to find a way back into it... The Spitfires went on too seal the win in this eight-goal-thriller."

18 December 2023

ALTY TV HIGHLIGHTS

They include replays of the two fine goals scored by Chris Conn-Clarke, which took his tally to twelve league goals this season.

NEXT: BROMLEY

Bromley boss Andy Woodman gave a video interview after his team beat Southend United at the weekend. He was "chuffed" that both of his side's goals were the results of things they had worked on before the match.

He added that "we are a well drilled and organised team".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Two ex-Alty keepers were also in action on Saturday, CAMERON TERRY is now at Widnes, who drew at Bootle, whilst Josh OLLERENSHAW made his debut for 1874 Northwich and kept a clean sheet in a goalless draw with Stalybridge Celtic.

Other ex-Alty men in action were MAX HARROP who is nowadays at Avro, and ELLIOT ROKKA who turned out for Witton Albion in their 1-1 draw with Mossley on Saturday.

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VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Blues named just one substitute for the clash at Roots Hall, had no recognised striker and played most of the second half with right wing-back Gus Scott-Morriss in goal...

Said Maher... 'What we’ve done, what the players have done and the staff right throughout the club... it’s papering over what’s been going on.

'Something has got to happen and happen soon because we’ll have injuries and you can’t go into the game with one sub.

'I know Moons (Dan Mooney) left but we had no choice in that and that’s the situation we’re in...

'We’ve got an outfield player in goal, no sub and a centre half up front and we’re like the Alamo in the second half... If we’re allowed to work properly we’d be matching them at least and pushing Chesterfield...

'I thought we were the better team, we had more chances, more balls in the box and everything was in our favour other than the scoreline'".

Woking "confirm the appointment of Michael Doyle as First Team Manager.

Doyle has signed a contract until the end of the 2024/25 season and will take his first training session with the team on Monday...

'Michael Doyle was the unanimous choice of our selection committee,' said Woking Chief Executive John Katz. 'Michael Doyle is a serial winner and will bring that enthusiasm with him to the changing room and the dugout.

'We had the option to be safe or to be bold, and we took the decision to be bold with this appointment. Michael is a young, ambitious, and dynamic manager, and our decision to be bold represents what this Club needs to regain – ambition and dynamism. We believe in his track record of success in the Football League, how he wants his Woking team to play, and his plan to move the club forward'".

The BBC adds that the new manager is "former Coventry City and Sheffield United midfielder Michael Doyle..

The 42-year-old was previously assistant head coach at Notts County and Forest Green Rovers.

And he has left a job with Portsmouth's academy to replace Darrell Sarll, who was sacked on 13 November...

Dublin-born Doyle made 866 senior appearances during his playing career, which also included spells at Celtic and Notts County... Interim boss Ian Dyer will remain at Woking as his number two, along with goalkeeping coach Marlon Beresford".

17 December 2023

NEIL'S VERDICT

Right: Neil Sorvel gives Elliot Osborne some tactical advice before kick-off against AFC Fylde.

Following the 2-1 win over AFC Fylde, in which Chris Conn-Clarke scored two impressive long-range goals, Altrincham assitant manager Neil Sorvel told the Non-League Paper "Chris is a 'magic moment' tyoe of player. Some of the moments he has on a football pitch, you can't teach that.

'There was a lot of expectation on that game, with them being bottom of the league, so it was nice for us to get it done...

'I thought we looked comfortable until they scored and then it turned a bit end to end.

'I don't know how they're bottom of the league, they came really close to getting something here. Ethan [Ross] has pulled off some good stops and we've cleared one off the line near the end.

'It's only halfway through the season, but if we continue playing as we are, we'll be right up there'" he concluded.

Coasters boss Chris Beech added, about Altrincham, that "They're one of the best teams in the division but you couldn't have complained if we had won, but we didn't.

When you're playing as well as we do, you've got to make sure you win games. We should have a lot more points than we do".

Manager Phil Parkinson spoke to Brian Flynn after the match in front of the Alty TV cameras.

"It could have gone either way" said the Alty boss Phil Parkinson who, like Neil Sorvel, also referred to Chris Conn-Clarke having "magic moments". It was "fine margins" which separated the sides in his opinion. "Fylde are a very good team" especially going forward he said. He felt that in the 3-3 draw at Fylde, earlier this season, the Coasters should have won.

ALTRINCHAM 2-1 AFC FYLDE

Above: Chris Conn-Clarke lines up his freekick which he put into the net to the keeper's right.

Neither side had overly troubled the respective keepers before Barrett burst into the box and took advantage of a fortunate rebound to score the opening goal for the Coasters (27 mins). Altrincham continued to lack a spark with their build-ups being too ponderous for the most part to to trouble the visitors.

Things did not immediately improve for the hosts after the break and it took a smart save from Ross to push away Barrett's shot from the right (50 mins).

But when Alty won a freekick just outside the box, Chris Conn-Clarke's shot from left of centre beat a flat-footed Richardson to the keeper's right (58 mins). That goal cued an entertaining final half-hour as both sides went for the win in an end to end game.

However, Altrincham increased their pressure and, after winning three corners in a many minutes, all of which came to nothing, the ball came to Conn-Clarke and the Northern Irishman hit a superb 25 yarder into the net off the underside of the crossbar to make it 2-1 (79 mins). Suprisingly, the mercurial forward was immediately substituted by Phil Parkinson.

Fylde did not give up and Alty survived a couple of hairy moments to see out the game as victors.

The win lifted Altrincham to fourth in the National League.

Match report here..

NEXT MATCH: BROMLEY

He is, of course, well known to Alty fans against whose side he has scored a number of times.

As far back as 2015 Cheek scored for Braintree at Moss Lane in a lamentable 0-4 home defeat for Alty and he netted two more in a 3-0 home win for the Iron later that season, a match which confirmed Altrincham's relegation from the national division in 2016.

More recently in Bromley's last visit to Moss Lane, he scored as The Ravens emerged with 2-1 away win in a midweek game on 14 February this year.

On Saturday, Bromley won away at Southend and, of course, Michael Cheek scored. The Ravens lie second, ten points ahead of Alty in fourth, but the Robins have two games in hand.

Before their Southend trip, London News Online reported that "Bromley were in FA Trophy action last weekend and defeated Slough Town 1-0 at Hayes Lane to set up a fourth round tie at home to Chippenham Town...

'It was a hard-fought victory in an ugly game,' said [manager] Woodman. 'The conditions were tough... The best bit of football was the first 30 seconds – the rest of it was rubbish!'”

ALTY OLD BOYS

Championship: DUNCAN WATMORE was a 64th minute substitute for Millwall, who were leading 1-0 at the time - but visitors Huddersfield Town forced a 1-1 draw with a 97th minute penalty.

League One: Blackpool had led at Cambridge United, but OWEN DALE only joined the fray in the 82nd minute - by which time the scoring was completed, and the hosts had turned things round to win 2-1.

HARRISON HOLGATE was an unused substitute as Fleetwood Town fell 0-1 at home to Peterborough United.

Lincoln City led 1-0 at the break at home to Reading. ALISTAIR SMITH came on for them at the start of the second period, but the visitors forced a 1-1 draw.

CARL PIERGIANNI put Stevenage ahead in added time at the end of the first half, but visitors Exeter City recovered to draw 1-1.

League Two: JOEL SENIOR played the whole of Morecambe's 0-5 win at Doncaster Rovers.

TOBY MULLARKEY (right) played the full match for Grimsby Town as they came from behind to draw 1-1 at Newport. LUKE WATERFALL was left on the bench.

After missing 12 games with injury, KEVIN BERKOE was an unused substitute in Salford City's goalless draw against visitors AFC WIMBLEDON.

ELLIOT NEWBY was credited with assist for the final goal as Barrow ran out 0-3 victors at Swindon Town.

CONNOR JENNINGS was captain for Tranmere Rovers at Walsall. They lost 1-0.

National League: MARCUS DINANGA played the whole game for Gateshead, but they fell 0-2 to visitors Halifax.

JAMES BERRY was a 70th minute substitute for Chesterfield, who won 0-1 at Hartlepool.

ASHLEY HEMMINGS was substituted after 78 minutes as Kidderminster Harriers were beaten by the only goal at Maidenhead United.

TYRESE SINCLAIR played the full match for Rochdale as visitors York City forced a goalless draw.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM (left) also played throughout as Oldham Athletic won 2-3 at Solihull Moors.

Having parted company with DAN MOONEY earlier this week, Southend United had only one substitute on the bench as they went down 1-2 at home to Bromley.

National North : LEWIS SALMON opened the scoring as Alfreton Town comfortably beat visitors Blyth Spartans 3-0.

A lone goal from YUSIFU CEESAY (right)was enough to give Hereford victory at Bishops Stortford.

CRAIG MAHON netted the clincher as Curzon Ashton saw off visitors Brackley Town 2-0.

CONNOR KIRBY put visitors Buxton ahead for the second time, but hosts Spennymoor, despite going down to 10 men, levelled things again. Buxton had the last laugh, winning 2-3 with a last minute penalty.

National South: DANNY CASHMAN scored the third as Worthing Town thrashed visitors Maidstone 5-1.

NPL : Although JOHN JOHNSTON put Matlock Town ahead at Bamber Bridge, they eventually lost 2-1 and finished with 10 men.

Hyde United's HARRY BUNN put them ahead twice at Guiseley, but the game ended 2-2.

Although both JAMIE MORGAN and JOSH HANCOCK scored for Radcliffe, they fell 2-3 at home to Warrington Rylands.

By the time A-JAY LEITCH-SMITH scored for Stafford Rangers they were already three goals behind to visitors Lancaster City, and eventually lost 2-4.

DONTAI GABIDON (right) started for FC UNITED but was substituted after 61 minutes. AARON BENNETT had made his debut from the bench 9 minutes earlier. Hosts Worksop Town were already two up by then, and went on to win 4-0, with captain SAM WEDGBURY putting in a full shift.

SAM HEATHCOTE started for Macclesfield, who led twice before succumbing 3-4 to visitors Bradford PA.

Scottish Premiership: MILES WELCH-HAYES was again left on the bench by Livingston as they drew 0-0 with visitors Kilmarnock.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The League says, that Widdrington has "turned them from struggling Shots to play-off sharp-shooters and reputation is counting for nothing.

Getting the month underway with an incredible 7-4 win over League Two Swindon Town in the FA Cup... they’ve been making huge strides in the National League too... with league wins over Kidderminster Harriers, Bromley and FC Halifax Town.

In fact, the club have already equalled their points total for home games this season compared to last season".

As for the Player of the Month that is Gateshead's "Stephen Wearne [who] wasn’t about to let a campaign full of promise spiral out of control and things picked up... the attacker scoring five goals in four games.

Without his goals the Heed would be five points worse off in November. Instead, they finished the month in the play-off places".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

• Aldershot Town 3-5 Eastleigh
• Altrincham 2-1 AFC Fylde
• Boreham Wood 2-1 Oxford City
• Dagenham & Redbridge 0-2 Wealdstone
• Dorking Wanderers 1-2 Woking
• Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Barnet
• Gateshead 0-2 FC Halifax Town (k.o. 12:30pm)
• Hartlepool United 0-1 Chesterfield
• Maidenhead United 1-0 Kidderminster Harriers
• Rochdale 0-0 York City
• Solihull Moors 2-3 Oldham Athletic
• Southend United 1-2 Bromley

OPPONENTS' LATE ADDITION

Signing on a short-term loan until the end of January, Dan links up with Chris Beech again after making his debut under the Coasters’ Director of Football/Head Coach, aged 16, at Rochdale AFC... Impressive performances in the Football League at a young age saw the Manchester-born lad join Norwich City for an undisclosed fee in the summer of 2019.

From Carrow Road, the 22-year-old had loan spells at SC Telstar and Gillingham before being snapped up by Cheltenham for an undisclosed fee, where he has gone on to make 23 appearances...

Director of Football/Head Coach Chris Beech said... 'It’s not only another body in the building, but it’s also a quality body in the building. He’s somebody who has represented England and played League One football at a young age...

'There’s no divine right to say he will go straight in, so there’s competition for places, but he will bring value in respect to his receiving and giving skills and gain control type factors, both of which will add more quality to our midfield.'"

Cheltenham Town confirm that "Dan... is available for their away trip to Altrincham this afternoon".

NEXT: AFC FYLDE

On that occasion it was the fourth game of that season and Altrincham were actually unbeaten after their opening three fixtures.

Left: David Lynch (no.3) and Danny Hattersley (no.9) in action in the 2016 game.

But it was to be a night to forget at the J. Davidson Stadium as, after three broadly promising draws this season, Alty crashed to their heaviest home defeat for many a year. Altrincham gave a debut to former Crawley Town goalkeeper Callum Preston and coach Simon Garner also started his first match for the Club, at left-back, after two appearances from the bench this season.

It was all effectively over for Altrincham inside 17 minutes, by which time they were three down. The floodgates opened for the first time on the seventh minute when James Hardy got in a low cross from the right, which Rowe netted. Five minutes later it was 0-2 as a speculative low shot from outside the box by Dixon evaded Preston's dive. James Hardy and Brendon Daniels were two Fylde players who have also worn the Alty shirt.

It was 0-3 another five minutes afterwards when Alan Goodall's fine tackle stopped Dixon's advance but the ball ran to Daniels, who scored. Next, Hardy made it 4-0; his goal arrived when Cyrus sliced the ball, Preston then punched it into the air and, although half-cleared, the ball came to Hardy. From an acute angle on the left byline he scored.

By the end of the 37th minute it was 5-0 to Fylde as Dixon scored again after Cyrus had missed a low cross from the Fylde left. By this stage, the visitors' nickname "The Coasters" seemed doubly appropriate.

Alty made two changes at the break but conceded again within 90 seconds of the restart. After Alty had failed to challenge Hardy on the edge of the box, Bond's shot went in off the underside of the bar.

At 0-6 and with 43 minutes still to go, it looked as if the visitors would at least match the seven scored here by Slough in 1991 in a 7-3 win but a combination of the visitors taking their foot off the gas and Alty making a better fist of things meant that there was no further scoring. Damian Reeves did hit the post for Altrincham but the game ended with Fylde keeping the ball for periods as the hosts struggled to make an impact.

The only mitigation was that Altrincham were still without the injured Tom Hannigan and Shaun Densmore whilst Craig Hobson was also out following his injury last Saturday.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Callum PRESTON, 2. Sam PATTERSON, 3. David LYNCH, 4. John CYRUS, 5. Simon RICHMAN, 6. Alan GOODALL (capt), 7. James LAWRIE, 8. Jake MOULT, 9. Danny HATTERSLEY, 10. Damian REEVES, 11. Simon GARNER. Subs: 12. Jamie MENAGH, 14. Sean MILLER, 15. Charlie JOYCE, 16. Sam HEATHCOTE, 20. Andrew DAWBER

AFC FYLDE: 1. Rhys TAYLOR, 2. Danny HOLMES, 3. Tom KENNEDY, 4. Josh LANGLEY, 5. Steve WILLIAMS, 6. Adam BOND, 7. James HARDY, 8. Caspar HUGHES, 9. Danny ROWE, 10. Bohan DIXON, 11. Brendon DANIELS. Subs: 12. Matty BLINKHORN, 14. Richie BAKER, 15. Dom COLLINS, 16. Matty HUGHES, 17. George NEWELL.

ALTY SHOP OPENING

In addition, the video includes an interview with players Sam Roscoe, Chris Conn-Clarke and Jake Cooper, who attended the opening.

Director John Coyne also explained the thinking behind the shop and the need to raise the club's profile in the town.

YELLOW CARDS

The Times says that 787 yellow cards had been issued for dissent in the NL at this stage in 2022-23, whereas this season the total is currently 1,360.

However, this increase is way below the number of cautions issued in other leagues.

The rise in the Premier League is 233.3% and 122.1% in the EFL.

In the case of Altrincham, so far this season, 33 yellows have been issued for all reasons in 21 matches, compared with 27 yellows for all reasons at this stage last season.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Our latest recruit began his career within the youth set-up at Arsenal before making the move to Charlton Athletic. During his time with the Addicks, he would join Notts County on loan...

The loan then became permanent, [with him] going on to make a total of 81 appearances for the Magpies, netting on four occasions.

Weston would go on to return to London in 2009, joining League Two champions Brentford where he’d net a brace on his debut. He put on a Bees shirt over 100 times before making a switch to Gillingham.

Spells at Southend and Wycombe followed ahead of a three-season spell at Ebbsfleet United, scoring 13 goals in 122 appearances.

Weston joins the Ravens after spending three years at Dagenham & Redbridge".

Footnote: Weston has faced Altrincham several times, notably whilst playing for Dagenham, including the game at the JDS this season.

Barnet can confirm "the departure of Sam Beard who has joined National League South side Eastbourne Borough for an undisclosed fee.

Beard has made 81 appearances for The Bees since joining the club in 2021. The left-back played a crucial role last season in helping the club qualify for the National League play-offs and reach the FA Trophy semi-final".

Oldham Athletic "announce the signing of Josh Stones on loan from Wigan.

The 20-year-old links up with Latics having made a handful of appearances for the Wigan first team in recent months, finding the net on two occasions.

The striker arrives at Boundary Park on a youth loan until 12 January.

Stones came through the youth ranks at Guiseley, having been selected for England Schoolboys, and was signed by Wigan in the summer of 2022... extending his stay until 2026.

The youngster has also spent time on loan with Ross County earlier in the year...

Said manager Micky Mellon, 'He started off in the non-league and has made a very good impression during his time at Wigan. He’s a striker who puts himself about'".

Solihull Moors manager "Andy Whing expressed his desire in his Moors side using the victory against Scunthorpe as a ‘springboard’ to go on a run starting with this weekend’s visit of Oldham...

'We’ve had a good two weeks on the training ground implementing a lot of new things'...[he said].

Moors will have to be without Kyle Morrison on Saturday, who finds himself on the receiving end of a suspension but the Moors faithful will be able to see a home debut for new signing Alex Whitmore... 'He’s been brilliant and really good for the younger lads as well, top signing... We’ve got probably six or seven out which isn’t great, but we will have a strong side out'...

Moors have missed the influential figures of Joe Sbarra and Joe Newton but [they] look set to be on their way back in the not too distant future...

'We’ve had a really good couple of weeks on the training ground since the Altrincham game which we’re still hurting from... 'We have hit a bit of a sticky patch and we are looking to kick on'", Whing concluded.

And TWTD adds that Ipswich Town "keeper Nick Hayes has joined Solihull Moors on a 28-day loan.

Earlier this season, the 24-year-old spent time on loan at Southend, keeping three clean sheets in five games for the Essex side.

Hayes rejoined the Blues in January 2022 from Hemel Hempstead... The Clacton-born keeper, who also qualifies to play international football for Poland, had a spell on loan with Dunstable during his previous stint with the Blues and following his release joined Woking, had another spell with Dunstable before joining Norwich City in February 2019 and then spending a loan with Hertford Town.

Hayes, who could make his Moors debut at home to Oldham tomorrow, is currently fourth choice at Portman Road".

15 December 2023

PP AFTER TROPHY WIN

Phil Parkinson’s side made light of a contentious straight red card for defender Sam Roscoe in only the 25th minute to force a 0-0 draw and then held their nerve in the shoot-out that followed...

'Having Sam sent off so early, and facing the holders with 10 men for so long, made it really difficult,' said Alty boss Parkinson (right), whose side are home to AFC Fylde on Saturday...

'We have done exceptionally well to come out the other end the way we have done.

'I thought the referee made the decision to send Sam off really early and didn’t give himself time to think. He deemed it a straight leg challenge, in other words, a leg-breaker - but it wasn’t. Sam has come across their lad, who has nicked it away. A yellow card was the worst it should have been...

'We are a growing force in our division, and we want to continue that and keep picking up results like this. Against all adversity, we have knocked out the holders, and that’s a real feather in the players’ caps.'”

NEXT: AFC FYLDE

We want as many Coasters fans behind the lads on our last away day before Christmas when they search for a big three points at the J Davidson Stadium...

David Haythonthwaite said 'I thought it would be nice to get as many people to Altrincham as possible.

'Especially with Christmas coming up, our fans haven’t had much to cheer about, so I’m going to put on a free coach for anybody under the age of 21. I want everyone who goes to have a good day and get behind the team.'”

ALTY THROUGH THE YEARS

As mentioned earlier in the week, the last four occasions on which Altrincham played a match on that day in the year, the games all finished goalless!

Howard Watts and Mike Garnett's Through the Years records reveal that the most recent match on 16 December was in 2017 in an FA Trophy clash at Cantilever Park against Warrington Town.

The sides had already fought out a goalless draw at Cantilever Park in the league that seasonand, for thie FA Trophy clash, once again the pre-match conditions were wet and the game was played on a cold and dull afternoon.

Above: On a grim afternoon at Cantilever Park, Alty prepare to take to the pitch for a match which ended goalless and did little to lift the gloom.

Warrington included several past and future Altrincham players in their squad.

WARRINGTON TOWN: 1. Tony McMillan, 2. Adam Carden, 3. Rory McKeown, 4. Steven Jennings, 5. James McCarten, 6. Liam Goulding, 7. Dylan Vassallo, 8. Sean Williams, 9. Jamie McDonald, 10. Tony Gray, 11. James Barrigan. Subs: 12. Ben Ascroft, 14. Scott Bakkor, 15. Steven Milne, 16. Jamie Davis, 17. Ged Kinsella.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Tony THOMPSON, 2. Shaun DENSMORE, 3. Connor HAMPSON, 4. Tom HANNIGAN, 5. Ben HARRISON, 6. Jake MOULT (c), 7. John JOHNSTON, 8. Simon RICHMAN, 9. Jordan HULME, 10. James POOLE, 11. Tom PEERS. Subs 12. Max HARROP, 14. James JONES, 15. Sean MILLER, 16. Joel BEMBO-LETA, 17. Sam SHERIDAN.

Warrington went on to win the replay at Moss Lane.

ALTY SHOP OPENED

As Alty players, directors and volunteers counted down towards 4pm, crowds gathered outside the front windows of the brand new Altrincham FC Official Club Store right in the heart of the town's George Street pedestrian precinct in the Stamford Quarter.... Director John Coyne cut the red ribbon...

Deliberately timing the opening ceremony for 4pm, most of the area's schools were well represented, with a wide variety of blazers and uniforms in evidence to further bolster the club's hopes of attracting local youngsters to The J.Davidson Stadium in ever-increasing numbers.

First-teamers Chris Conn-Clarke, Jake Cooper (left) and Sam Roscoe happily signed autographs and posed for photos, while coach Ross Speight and directors John Coyne and Sam Mackenzie were on hand to mingle and chat over mince pies, mulled wine and soft drinks...

Radio Alty were on air in one corner of the store...

'It's more than just a case of selling merchandise. It's a hub as well as a shop, and we can add extra momentum to ticket sales and hospitality. If anyone is looking to book a wedding reception or any other sort of function, they can come in and chat to us about it and see what we have to offer... We've already got 1400 juniors playing for the club, and we want more and more local youngsters to see this store when they're out with mum and dad and ask to be taken in for a look round'" added John Coyne

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"Kevin Maher says Blues are looking at what can be done regarding new signings following the news that Dan Mooney will be departing the club.

The small squad lost Daniel Kanu two weeks ago as he was recalled from his loan, and Mooney has this morning moved on, potentially leaving space in the limited squad that we’re allowed.

In Thursday’s press conference... Maher said 'They’re conversations that we’ll have to have. We want to sign good players and at this time of year it’s difficult to get players in'...

On Mooney’s departure, he added 'We all wanted it to work out for Dan. We thought he’d be a big part of what we were trying to do with the ability he’s got.

'He had injuries and didn’t quite get going after moving to a new area of the country. We’ve got to do what’s right for the football club and having people that want to be here and want to play for the football club is always the most important thing'"

Their next game is against Bromley and "Maher was asked about the way Andy Woodman’s side play...

'They’ve done brilliantly and it’s no accident that they’re up there. .. They deserve to be where they are. There’s a tendency now for people to say you’ve got to have a possession-based style, but it’s about winning football matches...

'There’s no right or wrong'" concluded the boss.

The Colchester Daily Gazette confirms that troubled "Colchester United have recalled goalkeeper Sam Hornby from his loan spell at Solihull Moors.

Hornby, who joined the National League side last month, has been back at the U's this week... after featuring in Solihull’s 2-0 FA Trophy win against Scunthorpe United on Friday evening.

Hornby made four outings for the promotion-chasing side, who are currently fourth in the National League table. The former Bradford City keeper's loan deal at Solihull was originally supposed to last until January, but he has been recalled sooner than planned ahead of a busy period for Colchester."

There is bad news for Maidenhead United and their plans to relocate to a new stadium in the town.

The local Twyford Advertiser tells us that the "Maidenhead United’s proposed move to Braywick Park suffered another setback after the council doubled down on its position to refuse the release of the land.

The council's cabinet heard arguments from speakers for and against the move including petition organisers and sports club representatives, but voted unanimously to maintain their stance at the York House meeting yesterday (December 13).

The council refused to release the land to allow the move in July however a Magpies fan-led petition to reconsider, which gained over 2000 signatures, handed the proposal a lifeline and brought it back for cabinet debate".

MOONEY CONTRACT TERMINATED AT SOUTHEND

We wish Dan every success in the future."

Right: Dan Mooney in his Altrincham days.

24 year-old Mooney left Altrincham for Southend United in summer 2022. This season he has made just seven starts for the Shrimpers and a further nine appearances from the bench. Dan completed ninety minutes just once.

He has scored once this campaign. Last season he made 17 (+14) appearances for the Essex club, scoring twice.

Before his stint at Southend, Mooney was signed by Alty from Fleetwood Town for an undisclosed fee, in early 2020.

The signing of the left-footed wingman was unveiled on 1 February 2020 and he made an impressive debut that evening, on the right wing, against AFC Telford United. He had previously played against Altrincham for Chester FC and Ashton United whilst on loan spells from the Fleetwood club, for whom he made two first-team appearances. He holds a number of Wales under-21 international caps.

His 2020-21 season was disrupted by injury and he made just 13 starts and ten Altrincham appearances from the bench. 2021-22 promised to be better as he completed seven of the first ten fixtures but after that he failed to play for 90 minutes in any of the next 19 league fixtures.

Mooney surprisingly decided to move sideways to another National League club, Southend United, a move announced on 26 May 2022.

In all, his Altrincham appearances comprised 55(+15) games in which he netted 18 goals.

"WE'VE DONE EXTREMELY WELL"

Referring to the red card for Sam Roscoe, Parkinson said that the club was likely to appeal against the decision.

Turning to the National League, the manager declared "We're a growing force in this division".

Next Saturday, Altrincham entertain AFC Fylde who, although bottom of the league, are "one of the best teams we've played this season", according to the Alty gaffer.

MILLINGTON "GUTTED" AT DEFEAT

He admitted that his side had been set up to counter Altrincham's possession-based system but that when Sam Roscoe was sent off, his side found themselves enjoying the lion's share of possession against ten men.

Rather than blame his strikers, he attributed defeat to the fact that there was "No quality in our delivery" of balls into the box.

However, in the League he took pride in saying that his side was the "only team who haven't suffered a severe defeat this season".

THROUGH THE YEARS: 16 DECEMBER

That is because, a Howard Watts and Mike Garnett's Through the Years records reveal, all of the four most recent Altrincham games on that date have ended in goalless draws!

• 2000 Leek Town, away, in the UniBond League Premier 0-0
• 2003 Lancaster City, home, in the UniBond League Premier 0-0
• 2006 Tamworth, home, in the FA Trophy 1st Round 0-0
• 2017 Warrington Town, away, in the FA Trophy 1st Round 0-0

ALTY OLD BOYS

CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES AT ALTY

The annual Altrincham FC Community Sports over-50s lunch [was] held at The J.Davidson Stadium [yesterday], and in keeping with the spirit of Christmas, the club have managed to make it as affordable as possible after six kind-hearted Alty backers stepped forward to help fund it.

Take a bow Marc Darcy, Slater Heelis, Benchmark Security, Trafford Leisure, Manchester Glass Ltd and Poppies and please accept the club's heartfelt thanks for agreeing to sponsor an ever-popular event... With your generous support, we have been able to price tickets at just £10 each for a three-course Christmas lunch, and you will not be surprised to hear that, as a result, every last one was sold weeks in advance...

AFC Fylde are the visitors on Saturday, and there [is]... a not-to-be-missed Christmas party following on in the Community Sports Hall during the evening.

Doors open at 7pm for a Dance Through The Decades extravaganza, with tickets at £16.95".

EMIRATES FA CUP REPLAY

• Stockport County 0-1 Aldershot Town

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

'I feel like we have just about enough to compete in the league... Looking at the two sides tonight... we’re in very different situations. They’re three years deep into the project they’re in. They have a 25-man squad there, who have real depth and understanding...

'In moments tonight, you could certainly see that if we rest a couple of the main players like we need to and we try and move things around a little bit, I think against the best teams in our league we can get exposed. Unfortunately, tonight that was shown'.

Bradley Kelly made his first professional start for Dale in last night’s game, with Academy players Luke Mann and Isaac Burgess both coming onto the pitch to make their first-team debuts. Academy midfielder Corey Edwards was also named on the bench...

Commented the Dale Head Coach... 'I never thought that we could go deep in anything other than the league. It was critical that we protected the players tonight... I would have been devasted here tonight if we’d have lost a couple more players in the FA Trophy because I know that it could decimate us in the league.'”

The Derbyshire Times reports that "Oldham Athletic have been fined and warned after hundreds of Latics fans invaded the pitch against Chesterfield earlier this season.

James Norwood scored a last-gasp equaliser to make it 1-1 at the SMH Group Stadium on August 19. As he celebrated, some Oldham supporters left the stand behind the net and ran onto the pitch. Spireites goalkeeper Harry Tyrer was knocked to the floor in the aftermath. The goal was controversial because Mike Fondop was in an offside position and in the eye-line of Tyrer before Norwood pounced to slide in. But because of the scenes the full-time whistle was blown straight away and there was no opportunity for the officials to have a discussion..

The FA said Oldham breached rule E21: It is alleged that Oldham Athletic FC failed to ensure that spectators and/or its supporters (and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers) conduct themselves in an orderly fashion whilst attending the match and do not... encroach on to the pitch or commit any form of pitch incursion.

Bizarrely, the Latics denied the charge but the case was proven and they have been fined £5,000 and received a warning".

ALTY ADVANCE IN TROPHY

Despite playing from the 24th minute with ten men Altrincham advanced to the Fourth Round of the FA Trophy with a penalty shoot-out win over FC Halifax Town at The Shay.

Sam Roscoe (right) was sent off for a late challenge on Wright (24 mins) after which Halifax dominated the match, at one stage winning six corners in ten second-half minutes. But Alty defended well and Ethan Ross only had to make a couple of decent saves.

The goalless game went straight to penalties and it took fourteen spot-kicks to separate the sides. Despite Elliot Osborne missing Alty's first penalty, the visitors missed two of their own, so the visitors triumphed 6-5 with the successful conversions coming from Banks, Baines, Linney, Amaluzor, Angus and, finally, Eddy Jones.

Match report here.

FC HALIFAX'S VIEW

Left: Eddie Jones struck the winning penalty.

In the 24th minute, Altrincham F.C went down to 10 men after a late and high challenge by defender Sam Roscoe.

The first half ended 0-0 with the talking points of the first half being the Roscoe red card along with Kosylo’s choice gestures to the home fans when he was sacrificed for Altrincham.

Town made two changes going into the second half, Rob Harker and Kane Thompson-Sommers came on for Aaron Cosgrave and Luke Summerfield...

Ross made a great save to keep the game level in the 81st minute... The last chance before full-time fell to Stott... which the centre-back met and headed into the Altrincham keeper’s arms.

This meant penalties... and Eddie Jones... scored, winning the game for the away side".

ALTY SHOP OPENING TODAY

Right: The shop as it looked last week, before its display and branding had been completed.

In a momentous development that marks another significant milestone for the club's ambitious board, plans have now been finalised for a grand opening at the George Street outlet next Wednesday at 4pm...

For three hours from 4pm next Wednesday, Robins fans will have the chance to mingle with members of Phil Parkinson's first-team squad and chat about what has been a fantastic first half of the Vanarama National League campaign, as well as savour the novel experience of browsing a town centre shop that stocks nothing but Alty merchandise!

Mulled wine and mince pies are being provided by the club and will be served throughout...

Director John Coyne, the driving force behind an ambitious project... [said] the "official Altrincham FC shop will be up and running in the centre of town in one week's time...

The shop will be fully stocked with replica kits and a wide range of top-quality merchandise'...

The store, which is located next to Jake Shoes in the Stamford Quarter, a few doors to the right of Costa Coffee, will be open as per normal opening hours up until Friday December 22nd. Beyond that, Christmas and New Year opening times will be announced next week".

NEXT: AFC FYLDE

The Coasters have had a difficult time this season since their promtoion to the National League. They won just once in their first ten league matches.

Following their second league victory they failed to win any of the next five league matches.

Then two heavy wins, over Oldham Athletic and Gateshead, lifted their spirits but just two points followed from their four most recent league fixures, which leave them bottom of the National League with eighteen points from 22 matches.

They face an Altrincham side lying seventh with 35 points from 21 outings.

The sides last met in very different circumstances in the disastrous 2016-17 season in National North. The nadir of that campaign was the Robins' 0-6 home defeat to The Coasters.

The away game went little better with the Coasters triumphant with a 4-1 result.

Fylde ended the season as champions whilst Altrincham were bottom and relegated.

ALTY OLD BOYS

NPL: After trailing at half time in their home game against Stafford Rangers, Ashton United fought back in the second period to win 2-1. JAMES HARDY notched the winner.

FA Trophy: Radcliffe had little difficulty progressing at the expense of a Redditch United side who were reduced to 10 men in the 43rd minute, by which time they were already trailing to two JAMIE MORGAN goals. Radcliffe eventually won 4-0, with JORDAN HULME (right) rounding off proceedings.

Gateshead were already three goals ahead at Spotland by the time TYRESE SINCLAIR scored from the spot for Rochdale, and they went on to win 1-5 with MARCUS DINANGA scoring twice in added time.

FA Cup: The only goal of the game at Walsall was sufficient to end Alfreton Town's interest in this season's competition. KENNEDY DIGIE was a 50th minute substitute, while LEWIS SALMON started, but was withdrawn in the 78th minute.

Captained by CARL PIERGIANNI, who played the full game, Stevenage were 2-0 down at Port Vale at the 80 minute mark, but equalised in the 97th minute to force extra time.

Behind again, they earned a 3-3 draw and a penalty shootout, equalising in the 120th minute. Although they failed with their 5th spot kick, so did Vale (who had already missed their second one), so they now travel to Maidstone in Round 3.

12 December 2023

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

Further heavy rain was forecast for Halifax in the early hours of Tuesday, with lighter rain to follow in the area so it could require a further pitch inspection at The Shay to decide the fate of the rearranged fixture.

If the game goes ahead, Sam Roscoe (right) will be hoping to retain his place at the heart of the Altrincham defence, having regained his starting role in the last National League outing against Solihull after not getting onto the pitch for nine league fixtures.

He then retained his place for the CSC win over Stalybridge Celtic.

TUESDAY FA TROPHY FIXTURES

Isuzu FA Trophy Third Round

• FC Halifax Town 0-0 Altrincham (Altrincham won 6-5 on pens)
• Hythe Town 3-2 Whitehawk
• Radcliffe 4-0 Redditch United
• Rochdale 1-5 Gateshead
• Walsall Wood P-P Coalville
• Wealdstone P-P Billericay Town
• Weston-super-Mare 3-2 Woking

ISUZU FA TROPHY DRAW

Fourth Round

Saturday, 13 January 2024

• Bishop's Stortford v Aldershot Town
• Hythe Town/Whitehawk v Chorley
• Rochdale/Gateshead v Weston super Mare/Woking
• Welling United v Chesterfield
• Hereford FC v Torquay United
• Hartlepool United v Hampton & Richmond Borough
• Bath City v Walsall Wood/Coalville Town
• Solihull Moors v Nantwich Town
• Kidderminster Harriers v FC Halifax/Altrincham
• Macclesfield FC v Dorking Wanderers
• Aveley v AFC Fylde
• Oldham Athletic v Hendon
• Chelmsford City v Wealdstone/Billericay Town
• Radcliffe/Redditch United v Barnet
• Horsham v Peterborough Sports
• Bromley v Chippenham Town

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Spitfires were beaten on penalties at the end of an eventful tie which saw Eastleigh reduced to 10 men in the second half.

Jayden Harris had put the hosts in front at the Silverlake Stadium before Ludwig Francillette was sent off at the beginning of the second half.

Paul McCallum made it 2-0 but Aldershot then scored twice in the final 25 minutes, before ultimately winning on penalties...

Hill said 'I'm massively disappointed. I think it was important for this club that we did well in this competition...

'We just needed to be a little bit sharper with our chances. It was not to be. It’s not helpful going down to 10 men'".

11 December 2023

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Aziaya, who arrived from Norwich City in the summer, has featured in the county cups this season and also enjoyed a loan spell away at Chatham Town.

The youngster has also taken part in various community activities this season as he embarked on his first year as a Raven".

At Southend United manager "Kevin Maher believes a penalty shootout should never have been on the table, with Blues dominating the vast majority of Saturday’s game against Hampton & Richmond.

Despite the performance, a last-gasp Beavers equaliser and a perfect shootout record from the visitors saw Maher’s men crash out of the Isuzu FA Trophy.

He said 'It’s disappointing that we end up in a penalty shootout in a game that we were in complete control of. They didn’t cause us any real problems. When you’re 2-0 up you should go and see it out, or win 2-1 at the worst...

'You’d expect us to see the game out comfortably, but a couple of mistakes gave them something.'

Maher was able to name four substitutes, more than he has in the last couple prior to today, but still had several players with little niggles...

'We’ve still got to defend better, it’s a catalogue of errors really. You’ve got to do better, they’re basic mistakes... The takeover is the big picture and we need it as soon as possible because we need bodies in.'”

The Oxford Mail reports that "Oxford City crashed out of the FA Trophy with a defeat at home to Chelmsford City.

Callum Watts scored the only goal of the game just before the hour mark, securing progress for the Vanarama National League South play-off hopefuls.

Hoops head coach Ross Jenkins made four changes to his side from the 4-1 loss against Maidenhead United last time out, with Lewis Coyle, Reece Fleet, Lewis Miccio and Mitchell Roberts all restored to the starting line-up.

Neither goalkeeper had a serious save to make in the first half...

It took until almost the half-time break for the Hoops to have their first real attempt on goal...

The Clarets nudged in front following a series of corners, with one of the set pieces recycled to Watts, who cut inside and curled a shot from the edge of the box into the top corner".

10 December 2023

ETHAN NAMED IN TEAM OF THE HALF-SEASON

Altrincham have secured one place in the eleven, that being goalkeeper Ethan Ross.

The team comprises: Ross (Altrincham), Fallowfield (York City), Grimes (Chesterfield), Ebanks-Landell (Rochdale), Beckwith (Maidenhead United), Banks (Chesterfield), Naylor (Chesterfield), Stokes (Aldershot Town), Cheek (Bromley), Grigg (Chesterfield), Akinyemi (York City)

NEXT MATCH: FC HALIFAX TOWN

This rearranged fixture replaces the previously rearranged league fixture at home to Dorking Wanderers which now needs a fourth date before it can be played, following three postponements since 21 October.

ALTY OLD BOYS

After the club received a seven-day notice of approach from FC United, Bennett informed the club of his desire to take up the deal.

He joined the Yellows in the summer following his release by Preston North End and went on to make 20 appearances, scoring his only goal on his last appearance in the Cheshire Senior Cup win over Ashville".

Meanwhile, Phil Jordan reports on the exploits of former Alty players and loanees on Saturday.

Championship : With the game still goalless, Millwall brought DUNCAN WATMORE on after 70 minutes at Cardiff, but the home side scored the only goal of the game 8 minutes later.

League One : Blackpool were 2-0 up at home to Carlisle United by the time OWEN DALE came off the bench in the 91st minute, and went on to win 3-0.

CARL PIERGIANNI captained his Stevenage side to a 1-2 victory at Burton Albion.

HARRISON HOLGATE played the whole game for Fleetwood Town, but they crashed 3-0 at Northampton Town.

ALISTAIR SMITH (left) was substituted after 62 minutes of Lincoln City's goalless draw at Wigan Athletic.

League Two : While LUKE WATERFALL remained on the bench, TOBY MULLARKEY was booked in Grimsby Town's 2-1 home win over Crewe Alexandra.

JOEL SENIOR put in a full shift as Morecambe were held 1-1 at home by Stockport County.

Tranmere Rovers were a goal down at half time to visitors Newport County, but CONNOR JENNINGS completed their comeback for a 2-1 victory, netting the 88th minute winner.

National North : After visitors Scarborough Athletic were reduced to 10 men on the half hour, SEAN WILLIAMS put Warrington Town ahead from the spot, and JOSH AMIS was also on target as they went on to win 4-0.

National South : DANNY CASHMAN (right) was a 90th minute substitute for Worthing in an exciting match. Visitors St.Albans City were two up after only 10 minutes, but went in 3-2 behind at the break.

They subsequently found two equalisers to force a 4-4 draw.

NPL : Hyde United led early at home to Bamber Bridge, but eventually needed a 90th minute equaliser from JACK REDSHAW to earn a 2-2 draw.

Warrington Rylands had DEAN FURMAN in their starting line-up, but OWEN GERMAN came off the bench to replace him after 64 minutes. Visitors Stafford Rangers started JAKE MOULT, who played throughout, while A-JAY LEITCH-SMITH came off the bench at the start of the second half with his side already 3-1 down. They eventually suffered a 7-2 hiding.

Another unhappy ex-Robin was JOE BUNNEY (left), who was sent off after 84 minutes for Workington. They were behind twice to visitors Morpeth Town, but managed to hold out for a 2-2 draw, despite a further red card in the 90th minute.

Southern Central : MONTEL GIBSON opened the scoring for AFC Telford in their 2-1 home win over St.Ives Town.

FA Trophy

Undoubtedly the performance of the day from a former Robin was claimed by ASHLEY HEMMINGS, whose hat trick included a penalty as they won 4-1 at Aggborough in their West Midlands derby against Sturbridge Town.

BILLY SASS-DAVIES (right) was in the Boreham Wood line-up as they were eliminated 1-0 at Bath City.

Chesterfield rested a few regulars, but JEFF KING returned to the starting line-up and was captain for the day.

According to their Twitter feed JAMES BERRY put them 3-1 ahead in the 59th minute "dancing between three Southport defenders to leave himself one-on-one with the keeper before blasting home". They went to win 6-1.

Southport had LUKE BURGESS on their bench, but he didn't come on.

DANNY MITCHLEY (left) was one of two players sent off as City of Liverpool, who led after only 3 minutes, were eventually hammered 1-5 by visitors Hartlepool.

Another former Robin to see red was BYRON HARRISON in the 92nd minute, but his Nantwich Town side, who led 3-0 at the break, held out to eliminate visitors York City 3-2.

ANDY DALES missed from the spot as his Mickleover side lost 4-2 on penalties after a creditable 3-3 draw at Oldham Athletic, for whom JOSH LUNDSTRAM was missing through injury.

Another side to go through 4-2 on penalties were Hampton & Richmond, who drew 2-2 at Southend United thanks to a 97th minute own goal. DAN MOONEY was a 93rd minute substitute for the Shrimpers.

Scottish Premiership : MILES WELCH-HAYES was an unused substitute as Livingston fell 0-1 to visitors Hibernian.

ISUZU FA TROPHY RESULTS

There were several notable wins for lower-ranked teams.

Saturday 9 December 2023

FA Trophy Round 3: Northern Section

• 1 Curzon Ashton 0-2 Macclesfield Town
• 2 Scunthorpe United 0-2 Solihull Moors
• 3 Kidderminster Harriers 4-1 Stourbridge
• 4 Oldham Athletic 3-3 Mickleover (Oldham won on pens)
• 5 Nantwich Town 3-2 York City
• 6 FC Halifax Town P-P Altrincham
• 7 Walsall Wood P-P Coalville Town
• 8 Nuneaton Borough 2-2 AFC Fylde (Fylde won on pens)
• 9 Chesterfield 6-1 Southport
• 10 City of Liverpool 1-5 Hartlepool United
• 11 Chorley 2-0 Blyth Spartans
• 12 Radcliffe P-P Redditch United
• 13 Rochdale P-P Gateshead

Ties in the Southern section involving NL clubs:

• Barnet 4-0 Maidstone United
• Bath City 1-0 Boreham Wood
• Bromley 1-0 Slough
• Dagenham & Redbridge 1-1 Peterborough Sports (Peterborough won on pens)
• Dorking Wanderers 3-0 Maidenhead United
• Eastleigh 2-2 Aldershot Town (Aldershot won on pens)
• Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Bishop's Stortford (Bishop's Stortford won on pens)
• Oxford City 0-1 Chelmsford City
• Southend United 2-2 Hampton & Richmond Borough (Hampton won on pens)
• Wealdstone P-P Billericay
• Weston-s-Mare P-P Woking

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Subject to FA and National League approvals, Timmy is available for immediate selection for George Elokobi’s Stones' side".

Dorking Wanderers "confirm that defender Joe Cook will be joining Weymouth FC on a short term loan deal.

Dorking Wanderers also tell us that originally "Joe joined The Wanderers on a loan from The Spireites until the end of last season

He had joined Chesterfield from Bognor Regis".

One of several shocks in the FA Trophy on Saturday was Nantwich Town's win over York City.

"Manager Paul Carden said he was ‘delighted for everyone at the club’ after Nantwich Town overcame a 64-place deficit to knock out York City 3-2 in the FA Trophy 3rd Round.

The Dabbers made a blistering start. In just the second minute, the first free kick of the game was swung in by Steven Hewitt and flicked in by the head of Ahmed Ali. The penalty shootout hero of the last 3 rounds had scored in open play just 2 minutes into this one...

On 22 minutes, the lead was doubled. Captain Troy Bourne curled in a cross from the right and Paddy Kay bravely threw himself at it ahead of goalkeeper David Stockdale and headed in.

Six minutes later the Dabbers were in dreamland. Another ball in was headed in by Connor Rankin for his first goal in a Nantwich shirt, and what a time to get it. 28 minutes, 3-0 against a side 3 divisions higher in the pyramid....

The Minstermen brought on the first team players that they had rested, including Lenell John-Lewis...

The Dabbers started to look leggy after the immense effort they had put in.

Young loanee Tyler Hill then gave York a chance... catching a York player on his blind side as he tried to clear. John-Lewis stepped up and sent Danny Roberts the wrong way.

As the game ticked over into stoppage time, York got another... John-Lewis may have got the final touch...

Another twist came as [ex-Alty man] Byron Harrison (above, right) was shown a straight red card for an apparent elbow on the second minute of stoppage time, a decision described by Paul Carden afterwards as ‘very harsh’".

DORKING MATCH POSTPONED FOR THIRD TIME

Altrincham should have been playing Dorking Wanderers that evening.

A waterlogged pitch caused a postponement of the original National League fixture with Dorking on 21 October. Then a frozen pitch scuppered the rearranged match due to be played on 2 December. And now the Trophy postponement makes it a third postponement for the Dorking game.

TODAY'S MATCH POSTPONED

Before the postponement, we reported...

Today's FA Trophy tie is, of course, a re-match of last season's semi-final, albeit that took place at Altrincham. But Phil Parkinson has a second motivation to win the game as his Nantwich side also lost to the Shaymen, in an FA Trophy semi-final in 2016.

The Halifax Courier advises that the referee for Saturday's game will be John Mulligan, who "has shown 21 yellow cards and one red card in six National League games this season... This is his first season officiating at National League level".

Mr Mulligan does not appear to have officiated a match involving Altrincham previously.

Halifax have won just one of their last five matches whereas Alty have two wins and a draw in their own five-match sequence...

The Courier reminds us that "Altrincham have failed to win at The Shay in their last five visits and have won only once in their last 12 meetings with Halifax"!

ALEX NEWBY INTERVIEW

They start by discussing his debut goal for Altrincham and his brother Elliot's current good form at Barrow, which is the Newbys' home town, before reviewing Alex's other goals for the club.

FUNDRAISER FOR ALTY PLAYER

Mary's season came to an abrupt halt in an FA Cup tie against Preston North End in October when she suffered an injury that has since been diagnosed as a snapped anterior cruciate ligament and torn medial colloidal ligament.

With surgery costs estimated at a minimum of £9,000, a fundraiser has been set up by Alty women's assistant-manager Duncan Jones, who said 'Mary is no average player, and for me, this is very personal. I have coached her since she was nine, and she has progressed with me through the Altrincham juniors, where we consistently won every trophy that you can win.

'She was our captain all through the juniors, and, this year, she moved straight in to the women's first team at the age of 16.

'Due to the backlog, the NHS projected date for her surgery is over a year away. This leaves no alternative but to pursue getting the operation done privately.

'The estimated costs will be between £9,000-£10,000 (depending on the extent of the MCL tear). Please help me crowdfund this procedure make a difference and help Mary get back on the pitch.'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Club began receiving CVs on the evening of Monday 13th November, and has finalised the vetting process of candidates. The interview process has begun, with multiple candidates having been interviewed ahead of this statement.

We are under no illusion that this appointment is perhaps the most critical one we’ll make as a Board of Directors. We are looking – not just for the now – but also for the future... There is no rushing an appointment of this magnitude.

Ian Dyer is our Caretaker Manager and has agreed to continue serving until a new Manager is appointed...

We would also like our supporters to please join us in congratulating Scott Cuthbert as he becomes the newest member of our coaching staff as a player/coach. Scott holds a UEFA A Licence and is a strong addition to the backroom staff, along with our Goalkeeping Coach, Marlon Beresford...

Scott will continue his duties as a key centre-back for the Club and adds a wealth of experience to the team".

At Boreham Wood the club announces "the mutual termination of Liam O’Neil’s contract with the club.

Liam, who joined the Wood on August 11th following his departure from Cambridge United, made a total of 11 appearances this season for the team before deciding to retire from professional football.

In his next chapter, Liam is set to transition into a coaching role, where he will bring his wealth of experience to Cambridge United. Specifically, he will take on the position of the Under-18s' head coach, returning to a club where he had spent over six years".

Kidderminster Harriers "have boosted their forward line with the signing of Gold Omotayo from AFC Fylde... after [he had had] an impressive two-year stay with King’s Lynn Town...

Last season he bagged 25 goals, including 22 in the National League as Lynn’s progress in the play-offs was ultimately halted by Harriers...

The former Yeovil and Wrexham man was then snapped up by The Coasters in the summer and has scored three times so far this term.

He’s now made the switch to Aggborough on a deal until the end of the 2024-25 season for an undisclosed fee".

8 December 2023

ALTY REVISIT THE SHAY

However, the sides had met once before in the FA Trophy in a tie played at The Shay in 2012.

And that game did not go well for Alty either as they left West Yorkshire having been knocked out of the competition.

On that occasion in 2012 Alty had reached the First Round by beating Worcester City, away, by three goals to nil, to earn the tie against Halifax.

And confidence in the Alty camp was high after they had just hammered eight goals past Hinckley in their most recent match.

Whilst goals flowed for the second week running as seven goals flew into the nets at The Shay, sadly, five of them went in at the wrong end; and several more could have done so. The Robins also had a man send off as they conceded a three-minute hat-trick which decided the outcome.

Right: Damian Reeves receives congratulations after scoring Altrincham's opening goal.

The game started well as the visitors took a fifth-minute lead when Nicky Clee's shot was beaten out and Damian Reeves converted the loose ball. However, Halifax were to dominate most of the first half.

In the 31st minute the impressive Lee Gregory, who has gone to enjoy a solid EFL career, advanced on the right and fired past Coburn from an angle. Although Town were applying pressure and Alty were defending in depth, half time was almost reached all-square.

A hat-trick in 197 seconds by Gareth Seddon changed all that, starting in the 43rd minute. His first came after Moult had cleared a team-mate's effort off the line, his second from a Gregory nod down and his third came from a Moult mistake (45+2 mins).

With torrential rain now falling, Hall was sent off just after the interval for a "last-man" offence of denying a goalscoring opportunity and Dale Johnson made it 5-1 soon after.

But Clee scored well, directly from a freekick, in the 53rd minute, making it 5-2. Alty lived dangerously as Leather cleared off the line and Johnson hit the bar but, as Town eased off a little, the visitors tried to get forward, though without creating any real chances, having subbed their three most experienced attacking men in Clee, Reeves and Lawrie.

Just 885 spectators saw the match.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. Scott LEATHER, 3. Matt DOUGHTY, 4. Simon RICHMAN, 5. Gianluca HAVERN, 6. Danny HALL, 7. Shaun DENSMORE (capt), 8. Jake MOULT, 9. James LAWRIE, 10. Damian REEVES, 11. Nicky CLEE, 12. Patrick LACEY, 14. Duncan WATMORE, 15. Ryan BROOKE, 16. Danny MITCHLEY, 18. Adam REID (gk)

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Finlay Barnes... [scored] in Scarborough Athletic’s 2-0 win against Kings Lynn... In their next game against Bishop’s Stortford... Barnes netted the third goal of the afternoon, as he helped the Seadogs to a 5-0 win. Barnes was awarded Man of the Match... and he even earned himself a place in the National League North Team of the Week...

Cedric Main... continues to impress in the National League North... at Blyth Spartans. After returning from injury in recent weeks, Main has gone on to score in back-to-back league games for the Spartans,...

Jonny Haase has helped play a part in helping Stockton Town reach the top of the Northern Premier League Division One East table...

Mitch Hancox... midfielder returned to action in Hartlepool’s most recent game, a 4-1 defeat at home to Bromley as he came on as an 83rd minute substitute...

Sam Sanders once again featured in the heart of the Truro City defence on Tuesday evening as he was part of their side who suffered a 2-1 at the Gallagher Stadium against Maidstone United.

Most recently, Sanders netted his first goal in Truro colours as he scored the opener in a 2-1 win at Chelmsford City...

George Harrison, the young winger, has missed the last couple of games for Northern Premier League Division One East side Bridlington Town through injury."

Wealdstone "announce that Paul Rumens has stepped down from his role as President.

Paul has been an integral part of Wealdstone Football Club for over three decades. His dedication, passion, and leadership, especially during his tenure as Chairman, have been instrumental in shaping the club into what it is today. Under his tenure, he rescued the club from its dark days of administration and near bankruptcy following the loss of our spiritual Lower Mead home.

As the last outright owner of the Stones, Paul dissolved that investment in 2000 thereby creating the club’s new constitution. This allowed fans for the first time in Wealdstone’s history to buy true ownership shares, thus making for a better democratic process going forward into the new millennium.

Most recently, Paul has played a key role in helping secure access to a 19-acre site for our proposed new stadium as well as working with potential partners who may be able to help deliver on our plans...

Paul added, 'It’s been an honour and privilege to serve the Stones in this capacity for over 22 seasons'...

This decision aligns with the club's ongoing efforts to streamline the organisational structure... It is essential to have a clear and simplified leadership structure. This change is a strategic step to ensure the club's continued success and growth as we embark on these promising new ventures'".

Meanwhile, congratulations to Woking, where "For the past 15 years, Christmas has been a time when the whole of Woking Football Club pull together to help people less fortunate and facing tough times...

There are several main outlets this year:

Hospital Visits: The players take time out to visit the children’s wards at St Peters and the Royal Surrey County Hospital in the week starting 11th December. Children get great gifts, the ward gets ‘big ticket’ items, families are encouraged...

Woking Foodbank: It is a key time for the hugely valued Woking Foodbank to encourage families but also build stocks for the winter months.

Jigsaw [is] a local charity... that gives vouchers to struggling families to buy a few little Christmas gifts for their young children

Hampers: If we are aware of any people with specific needs we will deliver hampers to encourage them

Any surplus will be allocated 100% to Cardinals in the Community activities throughout the year.

Food donations for the Foodbank can be left at the club reception".

ALTY SHOP TAKES SHAPE

The shop initiative was announced a fortnight ago saying "The unit will allow supporters to shop all things Alty in person five days a week, rather than just matchdays, as well as giving us a central base to sell match tickets, season tickets and hospitality.

There will also be a major community outreach focus, with regular events delivered by Altrincham FC Community Sports".

It had been announced that the shop would open on 4 December but it is now expected to be inaugurated in the next few days.

GOLF ROAD SPONSOR'S STORY

Above: The Venditan Golf Road End pictured as Justin Amaluzor scored on 11 November 2023.

John Coyne (right) explaines that he owes everything to having struck up a friendship with a young website builder at Wigan Athletic. When John's football days ended, the young lad invited John to join him, with John performing a sales role.

He has never looked back and, despite losing contact with the young man, an Australian, he has grown an e-commerce business with his current business partner from that chance encounter.

The company that he now runs, Venditan, initially sponsored the away end at Moss Lane but, now, in his own words, Johns says that 'At the home end of the ground, we've got naming rights for that iconic terrace, and it's now the Venditan Golf Road - I can't tell you how proud I am of that'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

It was originally hoped that 1 November would be the completion date, but 'legal formalities' caused a delay.

A small group of fans staged a protest on Tuesday about the situation.

But in a statement, businessman Justin Rees, who heads the consortium, said the 'last of the outstanding matters' had 'now been resolved'...

It was announced on 3 October that the consortium led by Rees would be buying the club, but several completion dates have since passed.

Other members of the consortium include Hong Kong-based hedge fund manager and lifelong supporter Jason Brown, businessman John Watson, who has been a season ticket holder for over 40 years, sport engagement company founders David Kreyling and Tom Arnold, and Southend United Community & Educational Trust chairman Gary Lockett". There is bad news for Gateshead where "Greg Olley and Robbie Tinkler are both set to be unavailable for the foreseeable future due to their respective injuries.

Olley... has sustained knee ligament damage which will rule him out for the immediate future.

Tinkler has now undergone surgery on the dislocated shoulder he sustained in Octobers' Emirates FA Cup tie at Stourbridge...

The long-serving duo have plaed a key role in the club's on-field success so far this season and will continue to play a pivotal part off the pitch ahead of their eventual return to fitness".

At Hartlepool United the club "can confirm Chris Wreh has joined Tamworth on a short-term loan deal.

The striker has made 11 appearances since joining Pools in the summer, and links up with Tamworth who currently sit second in the National League North.

We wish Chris the best of luck for the duration of his loan spell".

Footnote: Wreh has made five starts and five appearances from the bench in the National League but the striker has failed to score this season. He joined Pools from Southend United where he had scored four goals in 27 appearances last season

ALTY CEO DEPARTS

In the interim, Director of Partnerships and Sponsors, Sam Mackenzie, will step into the Chief Executive role as well.

We would like to thank John for all his hard work & contribution over the last few months.

Our planned Q&A will now be postponed until the New Year.

We wish John every success with his new endeavours".

Footnote: John Williams's appointment as Altrincham's first ever CEO was announced on 7 June 2023. He had previously been Commercial Director at FC Halifax Town and, before that, had been employed at Huddersfield Town. John is pictured, above left.

EVER PRESENTS

Five of the Altrincham squad have played in all 21 league matches to date, though only two of them have started every match. And those two have completed 90 minutes in every fixture.

• 21 starts: Ethan Ross, Eddy Jones (pictured right)
• 20 starts + 1 appearance from bench: Chris Conn-Clarke, Elliot Osborne
• 18 starts + 3 appearances from bench: Justin Amaluzor

ALTY OLD BOYS

FA Cup : In tonight's goalless draw between Alfreton Town and Walsall, HARRY PERRITT played the full game for the hosts, while LEWIS SALMON came off the bench after 65 minutes. However KENNEDY DIGIE wasn't used.

In the National League North, Warrington Town were already trailing at Hereford when they were reduced to 9 men in the 36th minute. Although SEAN WILLIAMS equalised from the spot just before the break, Hereford, for whom YUSIFU CEESAY played the full game, eventually made their advantage pay to win 2-1. Warrington's starting lineup also included ANDY WHITE, TOM HANNIGAN, and JOSH AMIS. AARON BENNETT was an unused substitute.

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

From the Halifax Courier we leran that "Town boss Chris Millington expects forward Jimiel Chikukwa to head out on loan again soon... Chikukwa has made just one substitute appearance for Town since joining them in August and has had a spell on loan at Hyde.

'More than likely he'll go and get some minutes elsewhere so we can put him in a position where, when we get to the latter stages of the season and we need that injection of youthful enthusiasm and pace and desire and hunger, that he's hopefully one of those younger lads who may be able to come in and offer us that', said Town manager Chris Millington...

Town also have youngsters Frankie Sinfield and Ted Lavelle out on loan.

'Frankie will be extended at Pontefract, again minutes being the important thing for him at this stage,' Millington said.

'And Ted, similarly, there'll be a conversation with Colne and maybe other teams... But the vitally important thing is getting minutes. Neither would be ready to come and significantly impact what we're doing at first-team level just yet'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

He left "after making just six appearances and failing to register a single goal whilst with York. Tanner described his experience with the club as ‘toxic’ after struggling with criticism from supporters, and admitted it was a dark spell mentally for the 21-year-old.

'Lovely place to live, not so nice to play football there,' Tanner told the Central Club Podcast....

'I was a bit reluctant to do it at the time. I needed games... I went there and within a month the manager got sacked and it was a shambles...

'I wasn’t good there but I was playing with no confidence, and... fans didn’t like me... and turned on me. Every time I played they would be booing me...

'They didn’t like the owner and were trying to get the owner out, they were in the relegation zone and not playing well, so you think a lad has gone on loan there from Cardiff and is not playing well, they weren’t having it.

'They’d boo their own players and they were booing me, it was a toxic place and it was hard to be (there)'">

Southend United "is launching its most comprehensive supporter survey ever!...

The survey, which will be open until Friday 15th December, will be used as an invaluable tool for everything from matchday experience to community engagement... It covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Matchday experience and facilities
• Ticket office and memberships
• Hospitality & bars
• Communications and media
• Interaction between club staff/officials & fans
• Future development projects
• Food and beverages".

5 December 2023

ALTY GOALS AND CAUTIONS

• 10 Chris Conn-Clarke (all in National League) [pictured, right]
• 6 Regan Linney (5 in National League, 1 in cups)
• 6 Justin Amaluzor (all in National League)
• 4 Dior Angus (3 in National League, 1 in cups)
• 3 Lewis Baines (all in National League)
• 3 Justin Donawa (all in National League)
• 3 Alex Newby (all in National League)
• 3 Matty Kosylo (2 in National League, 1 in cups)

Alty's cautioned players are led by...

• 6 Isaac Marriott
• 4 Elliot Osborne
• 3 Justin Amaluzor
• 3 Jake Cooper
• 3 Ethan Ross

ALTY FIXTURES COMING IN THREES

After Saturday's FA Trophy tie in West Yorkshire, FC Halifax Town are due at Moss Lane on Boxing Day. And then on New Year's Day it is Altrincham's turn to visit The Shay for the return fixture.

Also coming in threes are fixtures against Dorking, with a third date of 12 December now assigned to that game after two weather-induced postponements, on 21 October and 2 December.

The visit of Dorking is also part of another trio, as it will be the second of three successive home National League games for Altrincham at the J. Davidson Stadium.

Before the visit from Dorking, Alty beat Solihull Moors on 25 November and, after the Dorking game, AFC Fylde are the guests at Moss Lane on 16 December.

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

"Jamie Cooke played 45 minutes for Town in a friendly game at Hyde on Saturday as his recovery from injury continues...

'He played really well and was really sharp so that was encouraging', Town boss Chris Millington told the Courier. Halifax drew the game 2-2, with Frankie Sinfield and Ryan Galvin scoring for Town.

'Hyde's game at Workington was cancelled but their 3G was perfectly playable,' Millington said...

'The new frost covers that were provided for us are clearly going to help but we're disappointed we didn't get the chance to play'" concluded the Shaymen's boss.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Advanced talks have recently been undertaken with interested parties... As of today (Monday 4th December 2023), the club remains in talks with numerous parties over minority and majority investment. However, none of these talks are now at an advanced stage, and we are very much open to engaging with any interested party.

Chairman Simon Gauge and family have provided funds to stabilise the club’s finances whilst an investment partner continues to be sought. In order to assist with this process, some changes to the Board of Directors are expected to be announced in the coming days."

The Manchester Evening News confirms that "A deal to provide the club with significant new investment has fallen through, the club has confirmed...

Rochdale became a fan-owned football club in August 2022".

Earlier, and in contrast with the off the field situation, Rochdale's "Jimmy Keohane says Dale are in a good place, despite defeat at second placed Bromley on Saturday.

A late goal from the Ravens condemned Dale to defeat and halted the winning run that Jimmy McNulty’s men had been on...

'I think we deserved more,' said the full-back...

'I suppose it was not putting away our chances, because our build-up was quite good in getting to the final third...

'We had a lot of control and a lot of the ball... There was a ten, fifteen-minute period where we lost that control and they managed to score.

'We’ve been in good form, and they’re in good form themselves being second in the league. I don’t think there’s too much to be disappointed about... We’re in a good place'".

Elsewhere, we learn that "The National League play-off places remain the target for John Askey and Hartlepool United despite what has been an indifferent first half of the season...

Pools made a fast start to the campaign but have been unable to sustain that form... Pools remain in mid-table... eight points adrift of seventh-placed Altrincham who also hold a game in hand...

Said Askey 'If you can get on a run of three or four wins then it’s more than possible... but we need to have a good December...

'At this time of the season it’s very difficult to bring in personnel who are going to improve us'".

Nevertheless, Hartlepool United then announced "the signing of Ciaran Brennan on a short-term loan deal from Sheffield Wednesday.

Centre-back Brennan has made 18 senior appearances for Wednesday and also represented Ireland at youth level.

The 23-year-old has enjoyed previous loan spells with Gainsborough Trinity, Notts County and Swindon Town, playing 17 times in League Two last season".

As reported at Rochdale, above, a takeover deal has also been in the air for a long time at Southend. And the BBC now reports that "A group of Southend United supporters say they will stage a protest unless news is provided about the sale of the National League club.

Agreement was reached with a consortium headed by Australian businessman Justin Rees in early October. But a statement later that month said the takeover of the club had been delayed by 'legal formalities'.

It was then expected the deal would be concluded by 17 November but there has been no official update since then.

The Southend Fan Protest Group said... 'We therefore demand that both parties issue a statement around current deal progress, club finances and anticipated completion... Treat Southend fans with the respect our unwavering commitment deserves'".

On the playing side, At Southend United "striker Daniel Kanu has been recalled from his loan spell by Charlton Athletic.

The Addicks, Kanu’s parent club, have made the decision to put an early end to Kanu’s spell at Roots Hall.

Charlton Athletic quoted the Addicks' Technical Director Andy Scott said "With Daniel coming back here, he's going to be match fit, he's going to be ready and he's going to be chomping at the bit to score goals. He did very well for us earlier in the season."

From the Derbyshire Times we learn that "The trial of James Rowe,former manager of Chesterfield FC, will commence tomorrow after a jury was sworn in.

James Rowe, 40, appeared at Derby Crown Court today, charged with sexually assaulting a woman on November 24 2021. Mr Rowe has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The former Chesterfield FC manager spoke only to confirm his name before a jury was sworn in. The trial is set to begin in full tomorrow morning".

In February 2022 Rowe left the Spireites in what were, at the time, unclear circumstances. The following month Rowe became manager of AFC Fylde but he resigned in late September after being charged with a sexual assault dating from November 2021.

4 December 2023

TWO MATCHES RE-ARRANGED

Then, the rearranged home game against Dorking Wanderers on 2 December had to be called off because of a frozen pitch at the J. Davidson Stadium.

That was the second postponement of the fixture against the Surrey side as they had initially been assigned a visit to Altrincham on Saturday, 21 October. However, that game fell foul of a waterlogged pitchat Moss Lane.

The league has now authorised the following dates for the rearranged games, as follows:

• Tuesday, 12 December, 2023 at 7.45pm Altrincham v Dorking
• Tuesday, 16 January 2024 at 7.45pm Chesterfield v Altrincham

There could be more fixture problems ahead should Barnet win their FA Cup replay against Newport County as the Third Round of the competition is set for 6 January 2024, a date when the Bees are due to play at Altrincham in the Vanarama National League.

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

Before that postponement, FC Halifax Town reported that "The Shaymen go into the game in 9th place in the table having lost 1-0 away at Aldershot Town last weekend...

Town drew 2-2 at home to AFC Fylde last time at the Shay and were denied all three points with a second half injury time equaliser to stop a fifth league home win of the season.

Chris Millington’s side now have 1 win in the last five league games which was a 1-0 victory over Wealdstone at the Shay".

In contrast seventh-placed Alty arrive for this FA Trophy clash with a league run of seven wins, four draws and two defeats in their last thirteen games, with their most recent fixture being a 6-1 win over Solihull Moors.

Away from home, Alty have taken 16 points from 11 matches; at home FC Halifax Town have gleaned 17 points from eleven games in the National League.

The Shaymen have scored just 24 times this league season, with only Kiddermionster having scored fewer times. Altrincham have netted forty league goals his campaign and conceded 29 times.

FC Halifax Town have conceded only 21 goals in 22 league outings, the best record in the division.

ALTY OLD BOYS

FA Cup : With RYAN COLCLOUGH out injured, and JEFF KING staying on the bench, the only ex-Robin involved as Chesterfield beat visitors Leyton Orient 1-0 was JAMES BERRY, who came on as an 83rd minute substitute. Chesterfield will visit Watford in the 3rd Round.

THROUGH THE YEARS: 9 DECEMBER

In a pulsating match Alty withstood intense second-half pressure to leave Holker Street with a point. Barrow went ahead after only 9 minutes with a well-struck effort from just outside the box by Walker

But the game was turned on its head by two Alty goals in four minutes. The first came from Alex Meechan who converted Warren Peyton's deflected shot (31 mins) and, then, as Barrow lost their rhythm, Colin Little got to Dale Johnson's feed ahead of Barrow keeper Martin and poked the ball home (35 mins).

Alty held sway till the interval but Barrow dominated the second half. The Bluebirds' pressure was rewarded when the unmarked defender, Jones, headed home a Boyd corner at the near post to make it 2-2 (68 mins).

However, Alty led by their captain, Mark McGregor (right), defended resolutely to emerge with a hard-earned point. Report to follow.

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Stuart COBURN; 2. Chris LANE, 22. James SMITH, 4. Mark McGREGOR (capt), 5. Greg YOUNG; 15. Alex MEECHAN, 16. Anthony DANYLYK, 11. Warren PEYTON, 3. Matt DOUGHTY; 9. Colin LITTLE, 14. Dale JOHNSON. Subs: 7. Robbie LAWTON, 12. Joe O'NEILL, 13. Andy RALPH, 18. Lee ELAM, 19. Chris SENIOR.

EMIRATES FA CUP

Sunday 3 December

• Eastleigh 2-1 Reading
• Aldershot Town 2-2 Stockport County
• Chesterfield 1-0 Leyton Orient

In the draw for Round Three there is a potential clash between two National League sides.

• Watford v Chesterfield
• WBA v Aldershot Town or Stockport County
• Newport or Barnet v Eastleigh

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Tommy Widdrington was forced into a change to the side which snatched late victory against Halifax last weekend, as Aaron Jones, who came off injured last weekend, was out of the starting XI for the first time this season in place of [and replaced by] Haji Mnoga. Stuart O’Keefe and Olly Scott returned to a 9 man bench.

After opening the game the better of the two sides it was the Shots who took the lead... Stokes letting fly to give the Shots the lead, thanks to a huge deflection...

13 minutes in County found their way back into the game with a remarkable effort from Neill Byrne...

The Hatters have the third best attack in League Two, and it took them just 30 seconds [of the second half] to get themselves into the lead in the second 45...

Despite it being Stockport in control of the game, the Shots were able to find a way back into the game in the 68th minute of the game... Stokes had the freedom of the Stockport half, putting the ball beyond Ben Hinchcliffe".

Chesterfield "secured a fantastic 1-0 win over League One Leyton Orient...

A first-half own goal from Brandon Cooper was the only goal of the game.

Paul Cook made two changes to the team who faced Eastleigh, with Ryan Boot and Ryheem Sheckleford coming in for Harry Tyrer and Ryan Colclough.

It was a cagey encounter in the opening 15 minutes... The Spireites took the lead in the 39th minute thanks to a freak own goal by Cooper. Ollie Banks curled the ball towards goal, and it deflected off the defender’s head and into the top corner".

3 December 2023

INS AND OUTS AT ALTY

The Alty right-back played the full 90 minutes and figured prominently on Tuesday evening as the Robins booked their place in the quarter-finals of the Cheshire Senior Cup...

But he has generally been short of opportunities, due to the form of Lewis Banks and also Justin Donawa's ability to fill any of the roles on the right flank, and it was felt a loan spell at a competitive level would be of benefit.

Promotion hopefuls Redditch fit the bill, and George will be boosting their push for a play-off place in the Pitching In Southern League Premier Central Division until early in January...

Meanwhile, striker Gez Sithole has returned to his parent club Bolton Wanderers, and we would like to thank him for his efforts over the past couple of months, and keeper Ollie Byrne is back at The J.Davidson Stadium after completing his loan spell with League of Ireland club Cork City".

Left to right: George Burrows, Gez Sithole and Ollie Byrne

Footnote:

• George Burroughs: Twenty-one year-old George has made two starts and two more appearances from the bench since joining the club.

  After little more than half an hour on the pitch, spread across two pre-season games, central defender/right-back George was revealed as an Altrincham signing on 7 August, 2023.

  Before joining Altrincham, he had been at Coventry City since a child and had played at under-19 and under-21 level for Scotland.

• Gerald Sithole: Aged 20, Bolton Wanderers' Gerald Sithole made 2(+3) appearances for Altrincham, both starts being in the National League.

  Initially, he arrived on a one-month loan at Altrincham on 21 September 2023 as the club experienced major injury problems, which had seriously reduced their forward options. He wore the name "Gerald" on his shirt-back.

  A pacy, right-footed striker or wingman, Sithole first made a name for himself at Gillingham, then in League One, where he made 16 first-team league appearances for Steve Evans's team. He moved on to Bolton Wanderers where he featured in their B team.

  After playing for 82 minutes in the game at Maidenhead on 26 September 2023, he was reported to be injured and was expected to return to Bolton. However, he reappeared as a used substitute in the FA Cup defeat by Oldham Athletic on 14 October 2023 and started the league clash with Rochdale.

• Ollie Byrne: After 44 appearances last season, 37 of which were in the National League, Ollie has spent this season to date at Cork City.

  With the Irish league competiion ending in November, Ollie is back at Altrincham to battle to regain his place from Ethan Ross, who joined Alty from Stockport County over the summer.

NEXT MATCH: FC HALIFAX TOWN

Yesterday both clubs had their scheduled home league matches postponed because of frozen pitches.

FC Halifax indicated last week that they expect to have new pitch covers in place in the next fortnight so, unless that timescale changes, there will need to be marked improvement in the weather for the tie to go ahead.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Championship : DUNCAN WATMORE was a 73rd minute substitute for Millwall. Within two minutes of his arrival visitors Sunderland scored to force a 1-1 draw.

National League : TYRESE SINCLAIR (right) was a 74th minute substitute for Rochdale when the game was still scoreless, but hosts Bromley scored the only goal of the match six minutes later.

Two ASHLEY HEMMINGS goals in added time at the end of the first half gave Kidderminster Harriers a 2-0 home win over Ebbsfleet United.

NPL: DONTAI GABIDON scored FC United's second goal in a 1-3 victory at Gainsborough Trinity.

Southern Central : A late goal from ANDY DALES was in vain as Mickleover lost 2-1 at Halesowen Town. Although they remain top of the league, this was their third defeat in five games after going unbeaten in the opening 13 matches of the season, and Needham Market's 1-2 win at Barwell means they are now only two points behind the Derbyshire club with a game in hand.

FA Cup : HARRISON HOLGATE was an unused substitute, while JUNIOR QUITIRNA was again absent, as Fleetwood Town crashed out 4-0 at Cambridge United. The tie was over as a contest once the hosts established a 3-0 lead in the opening 13 minutes.

ELLIOTT NEWBY put in a full shift for Barrow, but, although they led, they fell to a shock 1-2 defeat at Maidstone.

Grimsby Town's 2-0 defeat at Oxford United was perhaps predictable. TOBY MULLARKEY played the full match, while LUKE WATERFALL remained on the bench.

Although their captain, CARL PIERGIANNI, was booked, Stevenage drew 1-1 to earn an away replay with Port Vale.

JOEL SENIOR played throughout as Morecambe earned an excellent 0-2 victory at Wycombe Wanderers.

So there is one ex Robin is definitely in the 3rd round, JOEL SENIOR, and another with a chance of joining him (CARL PIERGIANNI).

Of course OWEN DALE and our three ex-Alty men at Chesterfield (RYAN COLCLOUGH, JAMES BERRY and JEFF KING) are still on course to qualify".

THROUGH THE YEARS: 9 DECEMBER

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Sam Beckwith opened the scoring after 18 minutes, and then two goals from Sam Barratt and Reece Smith saw the match all but over before the half-hour.

The Hoops did grab a goal through Latrell Humphrey-Ewers, but the damage had already been done after Barratt had added a fourth ten minutes into the second period.

Ross Jenkins made two changes... Lewis Coyle dropped to the bench in favour of Alex McQueen & Mitchell Roberts was replace by Tafari Moore

The Hoops did rally, and did get themselves on the board on 63 minutes when the ball fell to Humphrey-Ewers on the edge of the box, with the midfielder’s precise effort finding Ross’s bottom corner.

This proved nothing more than a consolation... Attendance: 661 (110 Maidenhead)".

Rochdale's head coach "Jimmy McNulty felt Dale deserved at least a point at Bromley on Saturday.

His side had control for large parts and were denied a few times before Olufela Olomola’s goal ten minutes from time proved to be the difference.

'I thought the minimum we were good for was a point,' said McNulty. 'I think, overall, it was a good performance, and Bromley were clinical. They had two moments in the game, and they took one of them. We dominated a lot of the game and at half-time... we had our moments, we just didn’t score...

'If I look at it from purely a performance perspective, it was good. We were much better than Bromley, in my opinion, on the day. They hung in there'".

For the Dale, "It was [ex=Alty loanee] Tyrese Sinclair’s first minutes since picking up an ankle injury back in October...

The Head Coach... also confirmed that "Kairo Mitchell will be missing for up to two months with an ankle problem".

Down at the bottom, Kidderminster Harriers "secured a vital 2-0 home win over Ebbsfleet at a chilly Aggborough Stadium on Saturday.

A brace from [ex-Alty man] Ashley Hemmings was enough to pocket the result for Russ Penn’s men. It was a first league win for a while...

Harriers... took the game away from the visitors with quickfire goals before the interval. First, Sammy Robinson’s ball set Hemmings away out wide, who charged down on goal before driving a firm, angled effort across Cousins and into the far corner.

The celebrations had barely died down when Harriers made it two; quick thinking from Lambert seeing him take a free-kick while players around him waited, Hemmings alive to the threat and latching on to his pass before firing home for his fifth of the season".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE FIXTURES

Saturday 2 December 2023

• AFC Fylde P-P Hartlepool United (frozen pitch)
• Altrincham P-P Dorking Wanderers (frozen pitch)
• Bromley 1-0 Rochdale
• FC Halifax Town P-P Solihull Moors (frozen pitch)
• Kidderminster Harriers 2-0 Ebbsfleet United
• Oldham Athletic P-P Boreham Wood (frozen pitch)
• Oxford City 1-4 Maidenhead United
• Southend United P-P Wealdstone (frozen pitch)
• Woking P-P Gateshead (frozen pitch)

EMIRATES FA CUP TIES

Second Round: Friday 1 December

• York City 0-1 Wigan Athletic

Saturday 2 December

• Newport County 1-1 Barnet

Sunday 3 December

• Eastleigh v Reading 1.30pm
• Aldershot Town v Stockport County 2pm
• Chesterfield v Leyton Orient 2pm

POSTPONED

JUSTIN IS A HAPPY MAN

He talks about his six goals in the league this season and his almost as numerous Man of the Match awards since he joined the club in the summer.

Above: One of Justin's goals this season was at home against Bromley, as seen above.

NEXT: FC HALIFAX TOWN

This is, of course, a re-match of last season's semi-final, albeit that took place at Altrincham.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Whitmore has been with Fylde for over four years since signing from Grimsby...

Having completed the permanent transfer of Whitmore for an undisclosed fee, Moors manager Andy Whing said 'Alex is a player we have been impressed with for several months and was a player I thought highly of last season during his promotion campaign with Fylde... He is a natural leader who has a wealth of experience'...

Whitmore, who will now be captained by James Clarke, another former young Burnley defender, started his career with the Clarets, joining us as a 16 year old back in the summer of 2012... Although he didn’t make the first team during that time, he enjoyed loans in non-league with Gateshead and Chester before... loans at Morecambe and Bury.

He left the Clarets in January 2018... before joining Grimsby in the summer of that year. Then came his move to Chesterfield and now to Solihull Moors".

According to Kent Online "Ebbsfleet United striker Dominic Samuel will prove handful once he gets used to team’s pattern of play, says manager Dennis Kutrieb...

The former Gillingham and Blackburn forward netted his second Fleet goal in last weekend’s stunning 4-1 National League victory at Oldham...

Said Kutrieb... 'We can see already he will be a big help and a massive addition to our squad... He will get better and better>.. I was pretty happy that both strikers scored and Nathan Odokonyero came from the bench and scored as well...

'I think Dominic Poleon is always fighting against himself... If he turns up then he will be fine. After his injury, maybe he felt a bit of the pressure from being back and everyone was relying on him. But we’ve got it right that he’s refocused and knows exactly what is important to his game and he is able to score. That’s what he’s done in the last two games, much better than the three games before'".

At Southend United, "Gus-Scott Morriss is keen for Blues to continue picking up points and get closer to the play-off picture...

Scott-Morriss said 'We’ve shown this season that we’re very good at home; we thrive off big crowds and hopefully we can go and pick up three more points [on Saturday versus Wealdstone]. When you’re playing in front of 8,000, teams can come here and feel under the gun from minute one, so that’s a massive thing that we need to keep capitalising on...

'Last season not getting many assists really annoyed me; for whatever reason it just didn’t click, but this season I’ve contributed a lot more in that sense.

'I got off to a good start with the goals and I think I’ve had 10 goal contributions in total, so I’ll definitely take that at the halfway point'".

1 December 2023

MATCH POSTPONED

It is the second time that the fixture has been postponed, the original fixture on 21 October having fallen victim to a waterlogged pitch.

ALTY'S LEAGUE STATS

• Altrincham have used 22 players who have got onto the pitch in National League matches
• They have used the second fewest number of substitutes, 47 in 21 matches. In contrast, AFC Fylde, Woking and Ebbsfleet United have each used all three of their permitted subs in every single match.
• The average age of Altrincham players on the pitch has been 25.7 years
• Alty have scored 40 league goals of which 3 have been penalties.
• On average they have scored 1.9 goals per league match.
• The Altrincham defence has kept four clean sheets in the league, with goalkeeper Ethan Ross (right) playing a significant part in those games.
• The team has received 33 yellow cards in 21 games which is only bettered for good behaviour by Southend United with a total of just 30 yellows.

  The highest number of yellows has been received by Alty's opponents on Saturday, Dorking Wanderers, with 58 cautions from 21 games.

Stats courtesy of FBREF.

NEXT: DORKING WANDERERS

Frost covers have been deployed on the most vulnerable areas of the pitch at the J. Davidson Stadium

It is already a rearranged fixture after waterlogging prevented the original fixture going ahead on 21 October.

Their midweek Cheshire Senior Cup game allowed Altrincham to give Matty Kosylo a run-out after his recent injury whilst Regan Linney (left) was able to add to the ninety minutes or so that he had accumulated in four substitute appearances in the National League since his long-term injury absence.

Another player to gain much-needed game time last Tuesday was midfielder George Wilson. He has played just 14 minutes in the league after having no action in any of the preceding fourteen league fixtures because of injury.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The 26-year-old striker, who has scored seven goals in 16 appearances this season... said... 'It’s a great time because the club is going in the right direction.

'Promotion is the clear aim this season and hopefully we can maintain our good run.'

Quigley joined the Spireites from Yeovil Town in January of last year".

Oldham Athletic provide a "roundup how Latics’ youngsters have been getting on, [on loan], at their respective clubs.

Kofi Moore - After making 17 appearances for Workington, Kofi moved to fellow Northern Premier League side, Guiseley. He made a few appearances off the bench, before starting their 4-1 win over Ilkeston...

Jake Forshaw joined Guiseley alongside Kofi, and has made a handful of appearances off the bench at Nethermoor Park, but is yet to start a game...

Benny Couto has continued to be a regular in the Ashton United side, with the Robins now sitting 7th in a rather competitive Northern Premier League.

Llyton Chapman [is on loan at] Chadderton [who] are flying high in the NWCFL Premier Division, and Chapman’s continued to be involved in the defence at Andrew Street...

Frazer Cookson [is at] Northwich Victoria... with his fine performances continuing to impress the Cheshire outfit.

Now playing out of Winsford United’s Barton Stadium, the Vics sit 12th in the league...

Ollie Havens, after scoring four in his first six games for New Mills, Ollie’s returned from his loan".